Coming Soon....

 

Hey guys! Hoping to get some fun maternity and baby reviews and giveaways up and running soon!!! We are so excited!
~Ali

Review & Giveaway: Alo Yoga {Yoga Clothing & Activewear}

When I work out, I have to be comfortable. Period. I have enough to worry about when I am exercising- my hair falling in my face, my kids screaming at me to get them a snack, the time going way too slowly on my eliptical (ugh!) and the overall exhaustion that comes with exercising. I don't want to have to worry about an uncomfortable sports bra chaffing my neck, or my exercise pants pinching off my love handles or riding up my back. And--not most important but definitely up there- I want to look GOOD working out! If we have to work out, we wanna look good and feel good doing so. So I went in search for my perfect work out pant, and I think I have found the winner!

Alo Yoga offers lots of different styles of tops, bottoms, sports bras, outerwear, and accessories. I was able to review a pair of their dreamy ribbed goddess leggings and their paddle fast short sports bra. The two together- an amazing combo! You seriously feel beautiful when you are exercising and I love that. The goddess leggings are the most comfortable pants I have ever worn in my life, no joke. They are tight enough that they give you the support you want and need, but not too constricting that you feel like you are being pinched in half. The compression is in just the right spots to give your buns a nice little lift and a little extra squeeze around those thighs. They are totally slimming and I can honestly say they are worth every penny. The sports bra was nothing short of amazing as well. I love the cross back style that prevents chafing and digging into your shoulder blades. It is moisture-wicking and anti-microbial, also two awesome benefits. And they do a great job of holding the girls in place. I wore my whole Alo outfit to a trampoline park last week because I knew I would need the extra stretch and support, and it was perfect! The bra held me in nice and tight (but not too tight) and I had the flexibility I needed so I didn't rip a hole in my mom jeans. ;) Thumbs up for both of these amazing items! 

Buy It: Head on over to Alo Yoga's website to check out all of their amazing Activewear, you won't regret it! The ribbed goddess leggings are $92 (but I am telling you, no regrets people! Worth every penny!) and the sports bra I reviewed is $42. Put them on your Christmas list this year and tell Santa you have been really, really good! ;)

Win It: Here is your chance to win some awesome gear from Alo! One of my readers will win a pair of Alo Yoga's amazing Airbrush Capri leggings! Enter this giveaway in the widget below!

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Giveaway will close 11/7 at 11:59 pm CST. Giveaway is open to U.S.  residents only. Winner will be picked the following day and will be emailed that day. Winner has 48 hours to confirm their prize, otherwise a new winner will be chosen. A BIG thank you to Shana @ Alo Yoga for providing the review products and the giveaway prize!

Book Review & giveaway: Rufus and Ryan go to church!

I was given Rufus and Ryan Go to Church from Flyby Promotions in exchange for an honest book review. 

I was so excited to review this cute little board book! Religion is a big part of my life, and I enjoy teaching my son about religion and feel that it is important for him to learn about church at an early age!

Rufus and Ryan go to church is about a little boy named Ryan who takes his stuffed monkey to church and teaches him what church is all about! From bible stories, to praying, to singing, Rufus learns the ins and outs of church and what it's all about. The author does a great job of keeping the church non- denominational and non biased, which is very important! The illustrations are adorable and my son has asked me and my husband to read it to him countless times already.

From the Press: Author Kathleen Bostrom brings a delightfully light touch to the text as she provides an introduction to an experience that most children are exposed to long before they understand why. And children everywhere will relate to the idea of explaining their surroundings to their favorite companions as they go about their daily activities. This is just one of the first titles in a new series of inspirational books for preschoolers. Also available now:Rufus and Ryan Say Their Prayers.

Win it! Now you have a chance to win this darling book that your kids will read for years to come. Enter in the giveaway form below.

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Kidorable: Backpack promotion and giveaway!

Kidorable makes adorable clothing and accessories for children. From boots, umbrellas, raincoats, mittens and scarves, each item is made with super high-quality, with children in mind. We have reviewed many of their items in the past, including their rainboots, hangers, and hooded towels! They are such a fun and unique company, and have so many options for both boys and girls!

One of my favorite items that Kidorable offers for children are their adorable backpacks!They are the perfect size for your little one, and are so, so cute! Last year we received the frog backpack, and {B} still uses it all the time! He has brought it on many of our trips, and loves toting around his blanket and toys in it. It will be the perfect backpack for him to take to preschool! And as I said before, so many choices, for both boys and girls.

These backpacks are perfect for the beach, the pool, the park, school, or just everyday play. Make sure to head over to the Kidorable  website starting March 10th- 23rd, where they are offering 20% OFF all of their kids backpacks with the code BACKPACK88 at checkout. Place the backpack in the cart first, before applying the code BACKPACK88. This promotion cannot be combined with any other offers.

 Kidorable has also offered one of their backpacks to an n.c. baby blog reader! Enter in the giveaway tools box below! 

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Holiday Wishlist: Christmas cards from Minted.com

After Thanksgiving every year I start to get the itch fast to make my Christmas cards! I usually try to scour the internet for coupons and deals, and this year I came across the site that stole my heart for this years Christmas cards: Minted.com.

Minted does not only do Holiday and Christmas cards, but they also have baby announcements, wedding announcements, and personalized gifts! I spent quite a bit of time looking over each are on their website, drooling of all the things I could make for gifts this year, as well as which card I would choose for my cards this year.

Of course, I still haven't decided which ones I am going to use. From luggage shaped, to gorgeous elegant cut out shaped cards, to foil pressed cards...the options are endless! You can even get free recipient printing!! No more worrying about finding time to sit down and hand write all of those addresses. Just type them in quick and let Minted to do the work for you! I know with just 2 kids, I can't seem to find any alone time for things like addressing Christmas Cards anymore. This is one last thing I will have to do before getting into bed, so I am excited about that extra hour of sleep I will be getting!

I love that you can get very simple desings, to super fancy and detailed designs as well. Maybe you are far from home and you want everyone to know how your year has gone, without leaving out all of the details! Or maybe you just want to simply send a wish for a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, without all of the extra stuff. There are so many styles, you won't be able to just pick one.

If you have time today and want to catch their Cyber Monday deal, it has been extended through Tuesday at 11:59pm! You get 15% off and free shipping on holiday orders, and 25% off everything else! No code is needed.

Hurry over to Minted.com and check out all of their many designs for your Christmas or Holiday cards this year, I know I am going to!

~Ali

Practicing what we Preach: the Key to a Happy Home

As my 4 year old son was begging me for fruit snacks today, over and over again, I'd had it. If I have to listen to him ask me for fruit snacks one more time.... I MIIGHT EXPLODE. No, but seriously. {I'm trying to dry my hair!} After about 5 minutes of begging ( which seemed like 30) I hurried to the cabinet and threw some fruit snacks onto the table so he would stop, and I could continue blow drying my hair. While doing this, I somehow found myself putting myself in his shoes. He must get REALLY tired, asking me multiple times for the same thing, with the same old response " one minute, baby" or "hold on a sec, mommy is busy..."

Well, the same goes for us as mommies, right? What if we did those things that we so desperately want ourselves? What if we practiced what we preach and teach at home? A few things came to mind ( in between the blow drying and brushing) that I thought we could all use, to maybe...just MAYBE make things a little easier on everyone in the home.

ONLY ASK ONCE. Wouldn't it be nice if our kids listened to us the first time we asked, every time? Well, yes it absolutely would. But we all know that is impossible. We are busy! We are doing a million things at once. But can't we all try a little bit harder? What if I would have gotten B those fruit snacks the first time he asked? It probably would have saved me a couple of sighs and grumpy thoughts and he would have stopped bugging me after the first time. Maybe if we as mommies start listening to our kids the first ( or second ) time they ask us for something, they might start learning to listen to us a little more? What do you think?

CLEAN UP YOUR MESS. I can't count how many times I say this a day. "Who dumped all of the Hot Wheels out!?" " Why did you start this art project and leave it half finished?!" Why...WHy... WHY!! Well, I then thought about the things I do that I could probably be better at...unfinished sewing projects lying around the house. Scrapbooks. That LAUNDRY pile that has been sitting there for a week and a half now, definitely wrinkled and probably soiled again by dog hair, spilled milk...or who knows what. What if I would have put that laundry away the minute it came out of the dryer? It wouldn't be sitting there, unfolded, staring me in the face, and everyone would be a little happier. So what if I have a desk specifically made for storing my scrapbooking supplies? SO...think of how HAPPY my husband would be if he could eat his dinner on the kitchen table and not in the TV room because our family photos and my strategically matching stickers are all over the table! ( On a side note, at least I am doing something with those photos right? ) Point on this one...maybe we could all clean up our messes just a little bit more, a little but quicker. For our moms?? ;)

STOP SCREAMING! My 4 year old BOY is going through a screaming phase. I mean, blood curling, I think he is getting kidnapped scream...and I find myself constantly reminding him to use his "indoor voice" and explaining to him that there is no need to raise his voice unless there is an emergency. Well...does the same not go for us? Obviously, we as mothers probably don't do much high pitch screaming in our homes. But I do know that it's easy for me to find myself raising my voice when I get angry...probably a little too much at times. I know that look on my son's face when I get very upset and I know it's usually the result of me raising my voice, probably at times that didn't warrant the " I am REALLY mad voice" that came out. Maybe if we all spoke more gently, more sweetly to our children, they could learn from us? 

NO MORE ELECTRONICS TODAY. We can all relate to this one. "Mom, PLEASE can I watch another episode of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse?" "Mom, can I PLEEEEASE play a game on your phone?" "Mom, just one more movie today, pleeeeease?" Ok, moms. We live in Iowa. We "enjoy" Winter 9 months out of the year. It's impossible to NOT use electronics and I am as guilty as the next person when it comes to double features on a snow day. But there comes a time when we have to say NO to the TV. NO to the iPad. NO to the cell phone and computer. Because let's be honest, TOO MUCH screen time is not good for anyone. I know this is a very debatable subject so I don't want to go into too much depth on this one, but if we truly believe it's not good for our kids, can it really be all that great for us? Another one to think about as we holler out " NO MORE IPAD TODAY!!"

And on that note...I end this list of things I wish my kids AND I could be better at.  Here's to learning from our own threats, less screaming on both parts, less messes, listening the first time, and turning off our computers.

Ali

Review & Giveaway: Pink Blush Maternity

Now that the big prego belly is gone, it's time to find a new, cute wardrobe, right?! Ok, who has time and money for that? But in the meantime, a few nice, new items would be well deserved, right?

Right now the hardest thing for me is finding outfits ( especially for church) that are breastfeeding friendly. It's so much easier to have a nursing shirt with a skirt at church rather than a dress- but when I was browsing Pink Blush maternity, I found the cutest and best dress ever for nursing that allows me to nurse, and wear a dress at the same time!

I was able to review the Colorblock Maternity/Nursing maxi dress! It is such a flattering dress, and I have gotten so, so many complements on it! And the best part, all I have to do is pull down the front and I can nurse at church, or anywhere for that matter, at ease! I love the color, and the lace detail! It's easily one of my most favorite dresses. I also love that I can wear it when I get pregnant next time around ( but let's not talk about that just yet!)

There are lots of different styles similar to this dress on the Pink Blush Maternity Website! One of my new favorites is the Navy/Coral Print top Maternity/Nursing maxi dress. Very similar to the dress I am wearing, but with a cute patterned top! Their prices are very affordable, this one going for $39.99.

Pink Blush Maternity has offered my readers a $25.00 gift certificate to their website! Enter in the contest form below. Contest ends 10/5.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guidlines Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Cascade Platinum Pacs: Review #MyPlatinum #sponsored

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Cascade. I received a product sample to facilitate my review and a promotional item as a thank you for participating.

When we moved to Iowa, I didn't realize how moving to a smaller suburb of a small city would affect my dishes- our water is SO hard! So hard in fact, that after I do my dishes, I have hard water spots all over them and sometimes I can't get them off! What I had been using was just not doing my dishes justice when I washed them in the dishwasher- I would have to wash them and dry them all by HAND- and let's be honest, who likes doing that? 

Cascade© Platinum Pacs feature an advanced triple action recipe that is specially designed to leave dishware virtually spot-free and help prevent the build-up of hard-water film on dishwasher walls. Each pre-measured Pac contains a granule dish-detergent paired with the grease fighting power of Dawn. Convenient, easy to use and they fit perfectly into my dishwasher’s detergent holder. 

When I got the opportunity to try out the new Cascade Platinum pacs, I was so excited! It was so great to not have to pour any powder ( we all know that stuff gets everywhere and sometimes doesn't come off the dishes- yum!) and it was just so simple to pop a pac into the little soap tray and send the dishes on their way. 

Once the dishes came out, the amount of hard water spots was insanely less than before! These pacs work really hard to eliminate the hard water deposits, and I could definitely notice! My dishwasher even sparkled when I opened it up!

Cascade's Partnership with Gail Simmons:

Now, more than ever, people eat with their eyes, and the evidence is all over sites like Facebook and
Instagram. With that in mind, Top Chef judge and editor of Food+Wine magazine, Gail Simmons, has
partnered with Cascade to discuss why presentation is just as important as preparation.

· From prep to plating: It’s more than just a great-tasting recipe, but also perfect presentation.
Sparkling dishes, shining flat ware and spot-free glasses truly let you put your best food forward
with culinary creations that pop!

· Gail recommends impressing with a Platinum Presentation: “The easiest recipes pop with
unexpected, gourmet presentations. Drizzle bright sauces on sparkling white plates or layer
desserts in crystal-clean glassware. Keep your presentation sparkling with Cascade Platinum,
which keeps dishes perfect for anytime entertaining and impromptu guests.”

Learn more about Cascade’s partnership with Gail Simmons by viewing additional videos available on Cascade's Facebook page as well as Cascade's YouTube page.


Don't forget to enter the #myplatinum instagram contest!

The Cascade “My Platinum” contest is a four-week Instagram contest encouraging fans to upload photos related to the weekly contest themes. Show off how sparkly Cascade makes all your pots, pan and plates! Visit the contest landing page for information on how to enter and submit images:

Each week, two contestants will be selected to receive a brand new Whirlpool dishwasher. Additionally, one lucky grand prize winner will receive a Platinum kitchen!!

To win, users have to both register and upload a photo with the #MyPlatinum hashtag and tag
@MyCascade. Participants that have not registered will be disqualified from winning.
Each week will have a 6-day entry period where Instagram users can enter the contest with their #MyPlatinum Photo. Cascade will choose two weekly winners and one final grand prize winner after the entry period has ended. Please be sure to include both the #MyPlatinum hashtag and tag @MyCascade in your entries to the contest!

• Week 1: My Platinum Plate (Entry Period: 6/3-6/9) Show us your best dish styled from the sparkling plate up!
• Week 2: My Platinum Bite (Entry Period: 6/10-6/16) Show us your best bite and most creative use of sparkling silverware!
• Week 3: My Platinum Clink (Entry: 6/17-6/23) Show us how you serve up creative concoctions in sparkling glasses. Cheers!
• Week 4: My Platinum Table (Entry Period: 6/24-6/30) Show us your sparkling tablescape for your most special celebrations!
• Grand Prize Winner (Entry: 6/3-6/30)

EcoShag: Review & Giveaway!

I am so excited about this review and giveaway I have for you today! Tania, from EcoShag, has generously let me feature her business on n.c. baby blog. As you may know, I have a love for all things handmade, especially items that are vintage or one of a kind. Tania has combined these two and has made beautiful statement pieces that give us moms a chance to look great at an affordable price. I can tell by just a few of our conversations that Tania is such a kind and generous person. Not only does she hand make each item she sells, but portions of her sales go to the National Brain Tumor foundation and the Humane Society! I asked Tania to tell us a little bit about herself and her shop, here's what she had to say:

"I’m a mother, a wife, a philanthropist, and I own a little place called EcoShag.
Losing my sister in 2008 is what inspired my company. She was my creative counterpart and in many ways, her memory lives on with each item I make. Heck, she’s the one who taught me how to make a scarf necklace back in the 80’s….I think I was 6!?!

From infinity scarves made of vintage inspired fabrics, to scarf necklaces born of upcycled materials....I create them all with my own two hands.

One of the most gratifying aspects of my work is in finding the fabrics I use. Unlike many scarf and accessory makers, I don’t go to my local fabric store for textiles. I hunt down materials at estate sales, remnants when I’m fortunate to find enough, as well as organic/eco-friendly textiles. Even though it’s a lot more work, it feels really good to be eco-friendly."


   Here is the infinity scarf I reviewed, isn't it beautiful!! Don't mind how tired I look, it's been a long week! :)

When I got in touch with Tania about this review, she graciously accepted and allowed me to review one of her items. I chose the Pear Green Floral and Stripe Infinity scarf. Isn't it AMAZING?? This fabric is unbelievably soft and breathable. It is so lightweight, I love that I don't feel like I am wearing a 20 pound weight around my neck like with some other scarves. It can be dressed up, or down, and I love that. It was hard to choose, she has so many fun patterns and colors to choose from! Here are a few more of my favorites:

Buy It: Head on over to Tania's etsy shop page, EcoShag, to purchase any of these beautiful items!


Win it! Tania has offered one of my readers a $30 credit toward her shop EcoShag!

ENTER TO WIN! There are TWO Mandatory Entries! All other entries are optional, but the more you complete, the better chance you have at winning! Leave one comment per entry.

1) Mandatory: Head on over to Tania's shop and tell me what you would use your $30 towards!

2) Mandatory: Follow n.c. baby blog via GFC (or tell me if you already do)

3) Follow n.c. baby blog on facebook

4) Follow EcoShag on facebook!

5) Share this link on Facebook or Tweet about the giveaway ( you can do this once daily!)

6) Leave a comment on my Fashion Hunters blog post! 2 entries!

7) Pin a picture of your favorite item from either this post or Tania's EcoShag etsy shop to Pinterest! Leave the link to your pin!

8) Enter any other of my CURRENT giveaways ( 1 entry for each giveaway entered)

9) Subscribe to n.c. baby blog via email ( on right side of blog)

10) "favorite" EcoShag on Etsy!

GOOD LUCK!!! Giveaway will close 9/23 at 11:59 pm EST. Giveaway is open to U.S. and CANADA residents only. Winner will be picked the following day by Random.org and will be emailed and announced on the blog. Winner has 48 hours to confirm their prize, otherwise a new winner will be chosen. A BIG thank you to Tania @ EcoShag for providing the review product and the giveaway prize!

One Busy Mama

You guys! Excuse my blogging hiatus. I have been spending the last 10 weeks snuggling this little bug.

It has also been interesting learning to be a mommy of two! And I am loving every second of it! With that being said...IM BACK!!! We have some great stuff coming up!

Difrax Pacifiers: Review & Giveaway!

I apologize for the drought of posts lately- I had my little boy 3 weeks ago and life with 2 kids has been BUSY to say the least! I am so excited to introduce you to my little {N} with this review and giveaway!

{B} has always been a binky/pacifier lover. In fact, I am THAT mom. The mom that said she would never let her kids have a pacifier after the age of 2 max- and well, {B} is now over 3 and still has that darn binky. I have learned that some things just aren't worth making a big deal about-and the binky is one of them. Pick your battles, right??

Well, little {N} got to review a new pacifier in his first week of life, and so far it is by far his favorite! I am so glad we had this opportunity!

Difrax is Europe's leading pacifier company, and the produce a very science-developed product, similar most to Dr. Brown's here in the USA. Their pacifiers are trendy looking and are BPA free! Some of the features of the Difrax pacifiers are:

~Unique butterfly shape keeps nose free

~Holes allow extra air to prevent irritation

~completely round nipple to best resemble mother's breast

~Dutch design

~Comes in multiple sizes to grow as baby grows ( from preemie to 24 months!)

~ fun and unique designs for boys and girls!

We were sent some blue pacifiers for baby {N} to review in the 0-6 month size. When I opened the package I was immediately drawn to how cute they are! I had never seen anything like them, and I love having unique things for my kids since it seems like so many things are the same these days! When I gave it to {N}, he immediately took to it! I was shocked! He doesn't love his pacifiers and was gagging on the ones I was trying on him, but he loves these Difrax ones!

Difrax is beginning to distribute their pacifiers to Babies R Us locations all over the US! Check on the Difrax website for locations near you!

Booginhead distribution is helping Difrax launch their pacifiers here in the US, and they are offering one reader a set of 2 Difrax Pacifiers of their own! Size is whatever Booginhead has on hand to send to the winner. Please enter in giveaway form below!

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VeggiTales: The Little House that Stood DVD Review & Giveaway!!

{B} is in a stage where he loves movies and loves to be entertained by cartoon characters. He had never seen VeggieTales before, so I was excited when I was asked to review this darling DVD of VeggieTales: The House that Stood! I knew he would be so excited to watch something new, and I was happy that it was a show that sends a good message to kids! About the Little House That Stood:
When the VeggieTales: The Little House That Stood Three Little Pigs roll into Cabbageville looking to build some new houses, they meet one builder with a plan and two without a clue! Larry builds with hay, Mr. Lunt with bricks, but only Bob builds his houses on a firm foundation – following the wise plans from the Master Builder’s Handbook! Will the Little Piggies make the right choices when it comes to building their houses – and their lives – on solid ground? Find out in this parable that shows kids when they follow God’s blueprints, then can stand strong when the storms come!

{B} loved this movie. It was silly, interactive, had lots of things going on all the time, and it sent a good message! If you have ever watched VeggieTales, you know that some episodes are more religious than others. I did not feel this episode to be overly religious, you can feel comfortable taking this on a playdate, to church, or with any friends over...it is darling!
Watch the Trailer:
This DVD JUST released last week, so look for it at your stores! I saw them at Wal-Mart for only $9.99 close to their movie section, this would be a great Easter Basket Stuffer this year! 

FlyByPromotions is offering one lucky reader their own copy of the DVD VeggieTales: The House that Stood! Enter in the giveaway form below!

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guidlines Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Kid's Squeez'Ems by BooginHead, LLC: Review & Giveaway!

If you are anything like me, convenience and time savers are a huge priority in my life! I have fallen in love with all of the new baby food pouches that are available. Super convenient, not messy, you can throw a couple in your diaper bag, give them to your baby in the car...they are wonderful! But...not the cheapest things in the world, right? You pay for the convenience factor of it. AND, not to mention not very earth-friendly! We go through those things like cadbury mini eggs- they just don't last long in our house. So I went in search for the perfect pouch...one that I could use over and over again, and even better, one that I would only have to buy ONCE!

Since we have a huge garden here in Iowa, I am going to attempt to make *some* of my own baby food for our new baby...and I wanted to figure out a way to be able to take that ( or any jar baby food for that matter) in an easy, on the go kind of way! Insert Squeez"ems, possibly the best invention ever known to mankind. Thank you BooginHead, you are my life saver.

Squeez"Ems are a reusable food pouch for any pureed food! They are easy to fill up, store, and clean. They are top rack dishwasher safe, freezer safe, microwave safe, non-toxic, cost conscious and don't have any removable parts, so no worrying about losing anything! Do you want me to pinch you yet? You're not dreaming folks.

All you do is fill your pouch with whatever pureed food you would like, squeeze, enjoy, and clean to re-use! Freeze or refrigerate for later use, or throw it in your diaper bag to enjoy in the car on road trips or a quick trip to the store! They hold 4.2 ounces of food, so a whole jar of baby food will fit in there! Not only are these awesome for babies, but perfect for older kids who go to school! They are small enough to fit perfectly inside a lunch box ( just make sure to tell your little one to not throw them away!)

{B} tried ours out with some strawberry applesauce in it. All I did was spoon it into the pouch, and it was ready to go! You can also purchase a Squeez'Ems funnel that makes for faster filling, but I'll be honest, it was totally easy to fill with a spoon. We actually were packing ours up to take on a picnic lunch last week since the weather was nice, but {B} couldn't even wait to eat it, he was so excited about the pouch! The pieces are durable, ours have held up great since freezing, and using over and over again...I can't recommend this product enough.

You can purchase these awesome products here on their website. They are only $7.99 for 2, so grab a couple pair!!

Our friends over at BooginHead LLC have graciously offered a set of Squeez'Ems to one of our lucky readers! Enter in the giveaway tools entry form below!

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Daddyscrubs.com: Review & Giveaway!

 I have a very fun review and giveaway for you today! Since it seems like we have been focusing a lot on mommy these days, let's sit back and talk about the baby DADDY for a minute! ;)

When I heard about Daddyscrubs.com, I immediately got in touch with them about their products and working with them. Daddyscrubs is the perfect place to get gifts for fathers and fathers to be!

"DaddyScrubs® is the offspring of Robert Nickell, who fathered his first four children more than 20 years ago. DaddyScrubs® was conceived when Robert, who remarried in 2007, discovered he was about to be a father all over again in the fall of 2009!

Not wanting to endure the pains of wearing uncomfortable street clothes while comforting his laboring wife, Robert hatched the idea of creating doctor-like scrubs for himself. It seemed a natural thing for him to do — since Robert is a pharmacist by profession.

To eliminate the confusion between “who’s the doctor” and “who’s the daddy,” Robert fashioned the concept of “I’m The Daddy®” medical scrubs."

How cool is that? Now your hubby can look the part- be comfortable- but not be confused as the doc, all at the same time!

What caught my eye though was the Bag O' Books by Daddyscrubs. This is a large tote bag filled with 6 children's books, all about daddies, and even a book with tips on becoming a new dad. There are also a pair of trendy sunglasses inside, so the new dad can sport a new look ( and maybe hide his tired, sleepless night eyes from everyone). Here are some more details on the books:

Product Features:

• Includes I’m the Daddy Trunk Bag made from 100% natural cotton canvas
• Includes "I'm the Daddy" sunglasses
• Includes 7 Books!
  • I Love You, Daddy! by Edie Evans
  • What Daddy Bear Loves by Paige Nickell
  • What Daddy Duck Loves by Paige Nickell
  • The Daddy Book by Todd Parr
  • Just Me and My Dad by Mercer Mayer
  • The New Dad's Survival Guide by Scott Mactavish
  • Clifford's Day with Dad by Norman Bridwell
• Price: $49.95 (includes a savings of over $15.00!)

Because my hubby wears scrubs every day of his life, and will most likely be wearing them when I deliver our baby in April ( he will most likely be at work that day...) the book set really appealed more to me at this point in our lives because I knew that we could really use them! As a wife of a training physician, I know how hard it can be for dad's to find time for their families in between their busy work schedules. This bag of books is a great way for daddy and kiddos to sit down together and have some time to bond! It can be daunting for my hubby to try and find time to actually sit and read, but having new, fun books really helps!

{B} was super excited about the books. He couldn't even wait until my hubby got home from work to read them. I read every single one of them to him, it took me a while! They are all darling books, and include popular characters like Clifford and the Little Critter!

DaddyScrubs is offering one of my readers their very own Bag O' Books! This is a $49.95 value!!!

Enter to win!! Use the form below to enter your info and get your entries in! You can also use code BLOG13 for a 10% discount on Daddyscrubs.com! 

Entry-Form

NEW toy alert! And it's DARLING!

So I just had to share with all of you my favorite new toy from Infantino!

While browsing around Target yesterday ( dangerous, never just go to browse!) I came across this cute little gem and had to snag it for our new baby coming in April! Infantino has made this sweet little monkey teether, and it totally reminds me of the ever so popular sophie the giraffe!

Sophie was one of our favorites when {B} was teething. He could chew on Sophie's feet for hours I swear. Not to mention her face is adorable. Well, our new baby is going to be a big fan of little Monkey, because I am obsessed with him!

The Infantino Go Ga Ga monkey squeaky teether is sold ONLY at Target, so I would hurry and pick one up if you want to snag one! They are $12.99, so a little pricier, but I know it's going to be a durable toy I can use through all of my kids. Just like Sophie. :)

You can buy one online HERE! Enjoy! Also, all toys are BOGO half off right now, so it's a great time to stock up. This would be such a great baby shower gift, trust me, I would want one!

Let me know if you end up getting one, or what you think! 

NEW winner for INKtastic $25 certificate!

Ok, since I didn't hear back from Bonnie, I picked a new winner! Our new winner is...

#52... Diana

Congrats Diana! You have 48 hours to claim your prize, or I will yet again have to pick a new winner :)

Thanks everyone for entering!

A winner (BONNIE PEELING) and a reminder!!

So, I have a winner for the INKtastic giveaway, and that is...

#6.... BONNIE PEELING

Bonnie, can you please email me ( ncbabyblog(at)gmail(dot)com) or respond to my facebook message to claim your prize? I don't have an email address for you in your entries. You have til tomorrow morning at 10am CST.

REMINDER: I am feeling nice today so I am giving Bonnie a chance. But please, PLEASE leave your emails in your entries ( at least one entry) so that I don't have to hunt you down if you are the winner. If you don't feel comfortable leaving your email due to spammers, you CAN use the option of spelling numbers out, or using parenthesis ( ex. ncbabyblog(at)gmail(dot)com) This way spammers will not be able to pick up on your email address.

For future giveaways, if your email is not in your entry, I will automatically pick a new winner. I know it's harsh but I'm about to be a momma of 2 kiddos, and I just don't have the time to search for your email address! Love you all and thanks for entering and reading n.c. baby blog!

~Ali

New Year, New YOU! Review & Giveaway from Me2Roo Maternity!

 I don't love New Years resolutions. I am one of those people who don't set them, because I know that most likely, I won't live up to them...and that is so much more depressing to me than just trying every day to work on those things that I need to improve on, without writing them down and having them stare at me in the face.

With that being said, I do feel like it's important to try every day to be better, in every way possible! And maybe YOU ARE one of those people who likes to write down their goals and dreams...after all, research does show that if you write it down, it really does help! It's a new year, and with that, you can  become a new YOU.

For me, this year involves a LOT of change. I am officially in my third trimester, and in 2 months I will have TWO kids! I don't think that necessarily I am going to change, but my LIFE is going to be changing...and I want to be ready. AND....I wanna look GOOD while doing it. Insert Me2Roo here.

2 months ago I did a review for Me2Roo, a company that makes darling maternity active wear. As I said in my last review, with {B} I was working full time, and didn't have the time or desire to exercise and take care of myself like I wanted to. I gained more weight than I planned, and I hated that. This time, however, has been different. Do I exercise every day? NO. I wish. But I am more aware of what I am doing...do I need to go on a walk? Am I eating healthy? Am I doing the right things this time around to keep me and my baby boy as healthy as possible? Because I am trying to work out, especially in this last trimester, I need clothes that will fit this big mama belly. And believe me, if you have ever been pregnant, you know that work out clothes are awful on pregnant women. Everything is so tight and snug, and it makes working out really depressing! Me2Roo has the cutest tops, made for women who want to work out from pre-bump, to post-baby. There are a few options available, so you can feel good about how you look when you exercise, from beginning to end.

I reviewed the Charlotte Top a few months ago and LOVE it. It is seriously the best workout top that I own and I plan on wearing it until the scale is back to where it was, 7 months ago. It has a drawstring waist, so you can cinch it around the bottom of your belly. No more creeping tank tops up and over your belly...you know exactly what I mean! No more pulling them down, squeezing into them, and hoping all of your stuff fits in  your pre-baby tank. And forget the sports bras ladies. The tops have built in bras so you don't even need to worry about that!

The Ellie top is the top I wanted to feature today, and Me2Roo is giving one away to one of my readers! The Ellie top is a little more fitting, for those who are a little bit more confident in their pregnant body. It has thick supportive straps, and side ruching to expand for that growing belly. The length is extra long, so again, no creeping tank, and of course, the built in mesh bra for comfort and support. There are a few color options available, and really this tank is super super cute! I love how even after you have your baby, it will still look flattering due to the ruching on the sides. It will hide the love that has grown from having a baby inside you for 9 months. :)

BUY IT: You can purchase the Charlotte or Ellie top on the Me2Roo website. **Currently there is a New Year New You DISCOUNT CODE for 30% off on their website! Use code: NEWYEARROO**

WIN IT! One reader will win the Ellie top from Me2Roo! Woo hoo!

ENTER TO WIN! There are TWO Mandatory Entries! All other entries are optional, but the more you complete, the better chance you have at winning! Leave one comment per entry.

1) Mandatory: Head on over to Me2Roo and let me know what your favorite item is!

2) Mandatory: Follow n.c. baby blog via GFC (or tell me if you already do)

3) Follow n.c. baby blog on facebook

4) Follow Me2Roo on facebook

5) Share this link on Facebook or Tweet about the giveaway, please leave link! ( you can do this once daily!)

 

6) Follow Me2Roo on Twitter

 

7) Pin a picture of your favorite item from this giveaway or the Me2Roo website to Pinterest! Leave the link to your pin!

8) Enter any other of my CURRENT giveaways ( 2 entries for each giveaway entered!)

9) Subscribe to n.c. baby blog via email ( on right side of blog)

GOOD LUCK!!! Giveaway will close 2/6 at 11:59 pm EST. Giveaway is open to U.S.  residents only. Winner will be picked the following day by Random.org and will be emailed and announced on the blog. Winner has 48 hours to confirm their prize, otherwise a new winner will be chosen. A BIG thank you to Maggie at Me2Roo for providing the review product and the giveaway prize!

Me2Roo provided samples for my review.  No other compensation was recieved. All opinions are 100 percent my own.

INKtastic: Bib Review & Giveaway!

I love finding funny and cute things for my kids. It is always fun to have something unique, and these darling bibs are nothing less than that! Since I don't have a little girl to play dress up with, I get really excited over cute and funny things for little boys, and these bibs made me laugh really hard. INKtastic offers these darling bibs, you need to get one for your little one! ( they have girly ones too, of course!)

At first glance I didn't really get what was going on with the "These fools put my cape on backwards" design, but after I read it a couple times I totally got it! Hilarious. Since my little sister is having a little boy too, I had to get her one as well. I can't wait til our boys can wear them together and we can take a picture! These bibs are really great quality. Having been through many a bib myself with {B}, I was really impressed with the thickness and the overall quality of them. One thing that always worries me is the writing cracking in the washing machine over time, but these are all sewn, and I can guarantee that these wont have any issues after being washed multiple times.

INKtastic offers much more than bibs. From personalized onesies, to shirts, stuffed animals, and more, they pretty much have anything you could want or need for your child or baby! And they can stick a name on it too, which we all know is super fun to do with kids! You can also order signs and banners for parties or weddings. They can pretty much do everything over there!!

BUY IT: You can buy the original 'Cape on Backwards" bibs on their website here, prices range from $11.99 to $24.99 depending on size.

Win It! INKtastic has generously offered a $25 gift certificate towards their cape on backwards bibs!!


ENTER TO WIN! There are TWO Mandatory Entries! All other entries are optional, but the more you complete, the better chance you have at winning! Leave one comment per entry.

1) Mandatory: Head on over to INKtastic.com and tell me what else you like from their site!

2) Mandatory: Follow n.c. baby blog via GFC (or tell me if you already do)

3) Follow n.c. baby blog on facebook

4) Follow INKtastic on facebook!

5) Share this link on Facebook or Tweet about the giveaway, please leave link! ( you can do this once daily!)

6) Follow INKtastic on Twitter!

7) Pin a picture of your favorite item from this giveaway or INKtastic.com to Pinterest! Leave the link to your pin!

8) Enter any other of my CURRENT giveaways ( 1 entry for each giveaway entered)

9) Subscribe to n.c. baby blog via email ( on right side of blog)

GOOD LUCK!!! Giveaway will close 1/26 at 11:59 pm EST. Giveaway is open Worldwide! Winner will be picked the following day by Random.org and will be emailed and announced on the blog. Winner has 48 hours to confirm their prize, otherwise a new winner will be chosen. A BIG thank you to INKtastic for providing the review product and the giveaway prize!

INKtastic.com  provided samples for my review.  No other compensation was recieved. All opinions are 100 percent my own.

Wet Ones Blog Blast!

Raising little ones can be tough. Especially those kids who have a tendency to get into things and make big, big messes! I know that for me, when I find that my little guy has colored with crayons all over his favorite books, his toys, and the dog, my first reaction is to get upset and send him to time out! But I have realized, maybe too late, that it is just better to laugh, grab your camera, and enjoy the moment. Because that is what life is all about, right? Of course, there are things that we can do to prevent these things from happening. I like to keep all of B's art supplies ( crayons, markers, etc.) in a separate closet, high and out of reach, so that he doesn't have access to them whenever he wants. I also keep my camera close by, and mentally prepare myself for whatever sticky situation I might encounter in moments of silence ( when I KNOW he is up to no good!)

Facebook is giving you a chance to share your sticky situations by entering a contest on their facebook page! You can enter here: https://facebook.com/momcentral/app_248884015238315

And just for entering, you are automatically entered to win an Ipad Mini, or tickets to Six Flags! Personally I would give anything to win either of those! :) SO what are you waiting for?? Hurry over here to enter! GOOD LUCK!!

 

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Wet Ones. I received a promotional item to thank me for participating.www.momcentralconsulting.com