Does Mommy Love It?

As we soon transition from having two children to three, organization in my home is at the top of my priority list.  Because I do other extracurricular activities outside the home I have a deeper need to keep the inside of my home running as smooth as possible.  With two boys heading to full time school in September and a new bag of essentials to carry around for my newborn labels are vital to for our belongings.  I’ve found a company that can quickly and easily label my belongings without stickers-Stamptastic!

Stamptastic:

“Mums of three could never find the time (or inclination!) to sew in or iron on labels and so decided to find an alternative, we wanted to create something that we could use on everything our children could lose, from swimming hats to rulers. Stamping is so quick and simple that we decided to start with a personalised stamp and then create an ink that is usable on a wide variety of materials.”

{loving my new Stamptastics!}

The fact that this product is made from three moms assured me that this is a stamp that I knew would work.  Beautifully handmade, each clear long handled stamp clearly and mutinously spells out the name of every family member of my household.  The long hand keeps the ink from getting on your hand and the fact that the entire stamp is clear make it easy to see where you are placing the label.  I love the ink and how clean it is packaged as well. I cannot believe how nicely the ink stays put even after many washes!

I have been thoroughly impressed with Stamptastic and hope you will give it a go!  Quickly and easily label your family’s belongings using these precious customized stamps.

This review is based strictly my opinion.  Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. No compensation other than the stamps was received for this review.

No Comments | In: Accessories, Ages- Elementary, Ages- Preschooler, Ages- Toddler, Personalized, Uncategorized | tags: handmade, labels, stamp labels, Stamptastic. | #

My youngest son Hans will do almost anything his older brother attempts to do.  I use this for my advantage when it comes to learning.  It’s wonderful having a plethora of products and games around the home that are easy teaching tools for my kids.  A brand that is great on teaching articulation, vocabulary, and fine motor skills is Super Duper Publications.  We are blessed to welcome the MagneTalk Early Classifying board game and Topic Talk Conversation game to our collection!

The MagneTalk Early Classifying is one that both my boys enjoy doing together and can do without my interaction.  Basically, there is a board with 5 different categories and using the magnetic pictures provided your child separates and places the pieces in the appropriate area.  It was adorable watching my eldest son Henry who is 4 ask his younger brother Hans (2) what the picture was and where it belonged.  They played this game so beautifully together that I would have paid big bucks to capture this memory.  The categories available are transportation (son’s favorite), clothing, animals, food, and around the home.  It’s a great critical thinking, vocabulary, and fine motor skill game!  I highly recommend!

{Topic Talk}

In addition to the MagneTalk we attempted to play the Topic Talk Conversation game which encourages your child to think and talk about a specific topic for a specific amount of time.  There are 75 topic cards, 70 talk cards, 30 question cards, and more along with a five minute timer.  It’s recommended for age’s grade 2 and up so my son Henry had a bit more trouble with this.  However, it was interesting and laughable to hear the things that came out of his mouth as we played.  I love games that force interaction and allow your child to express what they are feeling or thinking.  A lot of the questions I would never think to ask.  It’s a great family bonding game too!

Super Duper Publications always brings it with their fun learning materials for kids.  The quality of their games and activities has surpassed my expectations!  My kids love them and always learn so much by playing with them.  Especially having boys who can sometimes have a slower development with speech than girls, I’ve found this to be incredibly helpful for building their vocabulary and practicing their speech.  Have a look at the full selection of products available on their site!  We are a huge fan!

This review is based strictly my opinion.  Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. No compensation other than the two games was received for this review.

No Comments | In: Uncategorized | tags: Educational, games, Learning, MagneTalk Early Classying, Super Duper Publication, Topic Talk. | #

Congratulations to the following contest winners & a huge thank you to all who participated!

Cocoon Couture Beanbag: Tara

Happy Baby Wrap: Nicki

Sandbox set from Nico & Lily: Katherine

Frankie & Ava Tee: Nancy

Article of clothing from Kinderstuff: Gena

Babiators: Kristin

Ella’s Wool Jumpsuit: Becky

2 Comments | In: Contest | | #

Though we set parameters, our kids daily use our various electronic devices. The iPad is the biggest hit… of course. (The kid to parent app ratio is a bit kid-heavy these days!) Naturally, I want to make sure the iPad is protected while in their little hands (and under their little feet, as the case may be.) The Snugg sets up shop to aid any parent unwilling to encase your phone in bubble wrap. With cases for both iPads and Kindles, for smartphones and tablets, The Snugg has you covered… literally.

I just love our Orange iPad 4 Case.  The sturdy leather exterior is paired with a soft & equally protective nubuck interior lining. The iPad fits easily inside, secured by a velcro closure that slips behind the back of the tablet. The interior also boasts pen storage, as well as a hand strap so you can use your iPad in the palm of your hand. The cover can be folded into a stand for everything from watching your favorite shows to using your iPad as a computer screen. (You can also purchase screen covers from The Snugg for additional protection!)

My husband loves the Ultra Thin iPhone 5 Clear Case. The case does the job (and does it well) of protecting your phone without the fuss of prints and patterns. (Though, there are some great color options, if you’re so inclined.) The tough PC case has built in cutouts for easy access to the camera and other ports. It snaps into place and doesn’t make your phone bulky or heavy to carry.

Check out all of the sleek and modern accessories The Snugg offers!

This review is based strictly my opinion.  Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. No compensation other than the cases was received for this review.

No Comments | In: Accessories, Ages- Elementary, Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Ages- Pregnancy, Ages- Preschooler, Ages- Toddler, Electronics, Travel | tags: ipad case, iPhone case, kindle cover, review, smartphones, tablet case, The Snugg. | #

Thanks to all who participated in the following contests!  Thanks to Rafflecopter here are our winners!
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We’ve had some beautiful weather as of late which thankfully has reminded me that summer is on it’s way!  After a long treacherous winter, my family is beyond excited to welcome the hot temperatures and relaxing at the pool.  No better way to style my boys this summer other than in the luxe Stella Cove swimming attire!

{Stella Cove}

Stella Cove is a collection of high-end ubercool beachwear . Stocked at magnificent places and exquisite boutiques.

The collection includes swimsuits, bikinis, boardshorts, sun protection tops (also known as rashguards or surf guards), cotton cover ups, dresses and sunglasses.

{See You Later Board Shorts} 

You will find Stella Cove’s gorgeous beachwear pieces in high-end retailers such as Barney’s, Le Bon Marche Paris, NY Plaza Hotel, and more!  When such destinations are stocking Stella Cove you know that you are purchasing pieces that are fit to last and last in style.  I feel privileged to have my eldest son Henry wearing the “See you later” pair of board shorts.  The material is fabulous and fit superb.  All of Stella Cove fabrics have the European Oekotex Standard 100 certification.  Sweetness!

{love these J Sparrow bottoms} 

In addition to designing luxurious board shorts for boys, Stella Cove carries gorgeous girl swimsuits, slip dresses, and more!  If only I had a little princess to dress in these amazing pieces!  Please have a look at Stella Cove’s full collection!  It is truly beautiful and awesome.  Its no wonder celebrity kids are spotted wearing Stella Cove!

 This review is based strictly my opinion.  Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. No compensation other than the SeeYou Later board shorts was received for this review.

No Comments | In: Ages- Elementary, Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Ages- Preschooler, Ages- Toddler, Uncategorized | tags: beachwear, Stella Cove, swim suits, swim trunks, swimwear. | #

I would define my husband’s style using one word: Prep. I love the classic look he can pull off, and am quick to replicate that in my sons’ wardrobes. So when I discovered Good Boy Friday, I was instantly enamored. Full of the best in spring & summer colors and trends, Good Boy Friday creates look after look that you will love!

I love everything about this brand. Full of crisp colors, each piece in the collection will suit any little man in your life. Each piece coordinates with the next! Creator and designer, Kellee Bachour, uses a flair for creativity with each product. By placing the traditionaly-saved-for-girls print of polka dots on a navy twill, she’s created a distinctly little boy short.  She’s also embraced the trend of bright colored pants for boys. The slim fitting Lou Pant is destined to be a go-to piece for boys everywhere. As convenient as any pair of jeans, the fun color ups the ante of any outfit.

Archer rocking his Lou Pants in Banana.

Kelle Bouchard was a top ad executive before taking a break to re-evaluate (and, as it turns out, have a baby.) Combining a love of marketing with training in fashion design, Good Boy Friday was born. Kellee admits that having a son changed the way she viewed children’s clothing: function should flow with fashion. This keen ability to create clothes that work for both kids and parents sets Good Boy Friday apart. Kellee places adjustable buttons on the outside of each pair of pants and shorts: allowing moms to get the correct fit while your child is wearing them. No more messing with adjustable waistbands on the inside! Genius.

Whether you’re looking for threads that will make any summer family portrait perfect, or just looking to prep up your son’s wardrobe a bit, check out Good Boy Friday. The shop is offering all DMLI readers 25% off their entire purchase with the code “mommydoesloveit”. Get shopping!

And that’s not all! Good Boy Friday is offering one reader a $75 gift card to their online shop! Follow them on Facebook to enter and let us know that you did so.

For additional entries:

1)Please follow our Does Mommy Love It? Pinboards

24 Comments | In: Ages- Preschooler, Ages- Toddler, Apparel, Contest, Discount | tags: boy's clothing, giveaway, Good Boy Friday. | #

With summer (ahem, bathing suit season) quickly approaching many of us are looking for ways to be beach-ready. While quick fixes might seem appealing, I’m always drawn to ways that I can implement long-lasting change. I try and follow that rule in both my diet and exercise routines. With this in mind, I was intrigued by the helpful new book, Abs: 50 of the Best Core Exercises to Strengthen, Tone, and Flatten Your Belly that offers sustainable and healthy ways to work your core.

Realizing that crunches alone aren’t going to cut it, this book is full of simple & effective exercises that you can do at home. (Seriously, you don’t even need equipment!) Complete with easy-to-follow photos, the user can see the proper form and technique. The book carefully details your core: both how it’s set up, as well as the importance of keeping it strong. (Remember, your core helps with everything from relieving back pain to better posture!) Created and written by wellness expert, Howard Vanes M.A. ERYT-500, Abs was based on knowledge from over 20 years of experience in yoga, martial arts, weight training, stress management, and even psychotherapy. In other words? He knows what he’s talking about.

This review is based strictly my opinion.  Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. No compensation other than the book was received for this review.

No Comments | In: Ages- Pregnancy, Educational, Fitness | tags: Abs, Books, core strengthening, exercises, workout. | #

In a house where imaginative play is the primary source of entertainment my boys are always ecstatic to add new pieces to their dress-up collection.  My eldest loves listening to stories about knights, kings, and chivalry so when I discovered German Company Noe and Zoe’s crowns I was excited to find their range of imaginative dress-up gear.

 {My son loved wearing his crown during our read of Where the Wild Things Are}

Berlin based designers Nici Zinell & Nadine Richter founded the children’s collection Noe and Zoe in 2011.  With both their passions for patterns, unique prints, and strong colors, it’s no wonder the company has been growing fast and represented in stores and online shops worldwide.  Ranging from baby to age 1o Noe and Zoe has something for any young one plus a few items for adults!  We are blessed to have their reversible crown in deep black.  As soon as we received this crown I was enamored by the quality of fabric and perfect detailing.  It’s a piece I don’t want to use so much because it’s so darn beautiful!  However, my young lads went quick into role play with this crown and continue to have a blast wearing it! It’s made in Poland and has two sides for wearing. One side has striking black and white stripes while the other has black stars.  This crown can easily be worn for both girls and boys.

In addition to gorgeous well-made imaginary play crowns Noe and Zoe design the coolest loop scarves, striped hats, bed sheets, baby sleeping bags, mobiles, and more!  I seriously would love to have the ENTIRE collection!  It’s absolutely adorbs!  For those looking for an exceptional gift for new baby or child or want to fit their child in something adorbs definitely check out Noe & Zoe.  Kudos to this fantastic company!

This review is based strictly my opinion.  Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. No compensation other than the clothing was received for this review.

No Comments | In: Accessories, Ages- Elementary, Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Ages- Preschooler, Ages- Toddler, Apparel, Uncategorized | tags: bed sheets, Clothing, dress up, German, made in Poland, mobiles, Noe & Zoe. | #

I love unique clothing for my kids. And coordinating unique clothing? I’m in. Australian clothing company, Baobab, does just that: a full range of “everyday funky clothing” that can be easily paired with other pieces. Plus, with sizes ranging from 0-10 years, you’re guaranteed to find something for each little personality in your family.

If there is a better baby style than a romper, I have yet to find it. Archer has been comfortably wearing the Blue Singlet Babygro this spring. Layered with a long-sleeve tee or worn alone, this romper is just lovely. Made from ultra soft cotton, it snaps at the legs for easy changing. With a sweet grey circle patch decal, it’s an easy go-to piece.

Not to be left out, Elle playfully rocks the Pineneedle Jumpsuit. She has even deemed it to be “comfy”, which is the highest honor my three year old can bestow on any outfit. All one piece, it’s perfect for little ones learning to dress themselves (and for mamas not wanting to deal with picking out matching outfits!) Graham loves his Dusty Blue Beat Tee & wears it obsessively. The heartbeat detail is fantastic and inspires countless imaginative play scenarios. Made from the same blue as Archer’s romper, the tee coordinates perfectly without being overly matchy-matchy.

(romper, bird top, peace tee, fish tee)

Baobab’s latest collection is full of deep navys and reds. 

Creator (and mom!) Belinda Blooman uses her experience as a mom and training as a designer to put together this accessible collection that both moms and kids will love. Her designs are a “ reaction to the ‘cutesy’ babywear and the ‘mini-me’ toddler gear dominating the market, baobab clothing has become renowned for it’s clean design focus, simple detailing and it’s distinctive graphic prints.”

This review is based strictly my opinion.  Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. No compensation other than the clothing was received for this review.

No Comments | In: Ages- Elementary, Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Ages- Preschooler, Ages- Toddler, Apparel, Clothing | tags: australian, baobab, kids clothing. | #

I have acquired many different bags throughout the year and find myself placing little bags full of my daily necessities inside them.  Instead of placing an assortment of items from one bag to another I’ve decided to have each bag equipped with what it needs.  I’ve been maintaining this little order thanks to O & E Design’s makeup bags that are roomy enough for my personals and small enough to fit in my purses!

O & E Design are handmade and shipped from my favorite area of the country, Grand Have MI.  She makes the cutest bags, banner flags, crib sheets, and more using modern fabrics and fashioning them into perfection.  I have loved the Myla makeup bags that were sent and appreciate the construction and detail of each one.  I seriously use them every day and store them in the various purses I interchange throughout the week.

{Love my bags}

In addition to being adorable, well-constructed, and practical, O & E bags are very affordable.  The owner is a delight to work with and humble at that!  Have a look at her fabulous designs on her Facebook page and email her with your requests.  Kudos to O & E Designs!

This review is based strictly my opinion.  Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. No compensation other than the 2 makeup bags was received for this review.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

No Comments | In: Accessories, Beauty, Organization, Uncategorized | tags: bags, handmade, Made in USA, makeup bags, O & E Designs. | #

The birth of my third child means working out has gone to an entirely new level. I heard stories about the difficulty of getting back in shape increasing with each child… and you guys, they were right. I consider myself an active person, but rebounding after Archer’s birth has been a big challenge! Thankfully, fitness wear company, Zaggora, produces great clothing that actually helps increase your body’s metabolic rate. That, and you look good wearing them.

I’ve been wearing the Hot Pants 2.0 Capri in my jogging ventures lately. The look of the pants is deceptively normal, a standard black capri. All similarities with other pants, however, stops there. These pants work for you while you exercise. The patent-pending material helps you burn more calories during a workout by raising your body’s temperature.

After extensive research & trials, Zaggora figured out a way to keep heat close to your skin during a workout, which burns more calories. Using your body’s own heat, you’ll get twice the workout-bang than most other activewear. Capable of all that, and they’re quite comfortable! Plus, the cut and shape of the pants is incredibly slimming. As a mom of 3, it’s hard to fit in time to work out, so I want to maximize the time that I have!

The line has expanded to more than just basic pants: check out the range of colors and styles, as well as some great (and equally “hot”) tops.

This review is based strictly my opinion.  Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. No compensation other than the hot pants was received for this review.

No Comments | In: Ages- Pregnancy, Clothing, Recreation | tags: Activewear, exercise clothes, zaggora. | #

When I first met my husband eleven years ago he had the longest hair of anyone on my college campus.  Being the art student he was he paired it well with his edgy skinny tight jeans.  Well, he’s decided to continue this trend with our two boys.  I am forbidden from cutting their hair and for a while he did allow my eldest to have short hair while my youngest paraded around town with locks of gold.  Now that I have two kids with ever growing hair we are in need of products that can detangle and style it quickly and effectively.  Thankfully American Made Tangled Tantrum does just that in spades!

{Tangled Tantrum styling paste results in eldest sons’ hair}

Tangled Tantrum was birthed out of a beauty industry mom who wanted to tackle the tangles and provide parents the right tools for conditioned, shiny, knot-free hair.  She does this brilliantly all awhile doing it paraben and alcohol free which makes it safe for kids.  The smell is divine (coconut) and leaves my little boys’ hair silky and smooth.

{my youngest birds nest before and after detangler}

The three products currently available from Tangled Tantrum is   their detangling and conditioning spray for either boy or girl and styling paste.  The styling paste is awesome for getting the desired style for my eldest son’s bangs and for MY flyaways!  I didn’t know I would become a user of this product till I saw the effects from my son without leaving nasty residue or lasting only minutes after application.  You get long g wear with these products and they smell delicious!  I stopped using conditioner in my sons’ hair after showers because I just spray the detangler in it and voila, perfectly silky smooth knot free hair! 

Between the cool graphics, lovely smell, made In the USA, there is really no reason not to stock up on Tangled Tantrum.  I highly recommend this product for your child’s hair styling needs.  Don’t be surprised if it becomes your necessary styling product too!  Kudos fantastic company!

This review is based strictly my opinion.  Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. No compensation other than the detangler and paste was received for this review.

No Comments | In: Ages- Elementary, Ages- Preschooler, Ages- Toddler | tags: detangler, haircare, made in the USA, paraben free, styling paste, Tangled Tantrum. | #

While we love introducing you all to new brands & companies, there are larger brands that are definitely worth highlighting. I remember shopping at Gymboree before I had kids: as gifts for friends and family, dreaming of a someday family of my own. Now as a mom, I find myself returning time and time again for everything from the basics to adorable seasonal outfits.

I hit up Gymboree this spring for some pieces for Elle & was not disappointed. What drew me in was the swimsuit (something she needed), yet I ended up leaving with a few more items… which she needed. Right. She lives in the super soft cotton Dot Trim Maxi Dress. The roomy fit is comfortable for her to wear no matter what she’s doing. An equal favorite is the Flower Tiered Chambray dress! The 100% cotton chambray dress has cap-sleeves, embroidered flowers, and a hidden back zipper for easy dressing. (Plus, each of these outfits are currently on sale!)

(Navy Blue jacket, Green jacket)

Not letting Elle have all the fun, I picked up jackets for the boys. (See? Essentials!) Both jackets are lightweight and ideal for the slowly-warming weather. Perfect for walking to school in the morning (and for stuffing in the backpack as soon as the sun is warm enough!)

Sometimes it’s best to stick with what you know works. Gymboree has proven themselves time and time again, and this year is no exception! Find affordable clothes that both you and your kids can agree on.

This review is based strictly my opinion.  Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. No compensation other than the clothing was received for this review.

No Comments | In: Accessories, Ages- Elementary, Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Ages- Preschooler, Ages- Toddler, Apparel, Clothing | tags: bathing suits, dresses, gymboree, jackets, kids clothing, spring sale. | #

It’s bit crazy how many toy vehicles we’ve accrued since having our second child Hans.  He goes bananas over all things with wheels.  More importantly, he can spend loads of time taking them apart and putting them back together.  I think he takes after his engineer uncles in this department.  We have few vehicles that can actually be broken down and rebuilt.  The ones we do have that can reconstruct Hans typically plays with longer.  Well, his collection just expanded thanks to the Manhattan Toy family ‘s newly beloved Motorworks brand!

 {My son Hans loves his new Low-Ride Motorworks}

{love the Stealth Police Cruiser}Motorworks is a customizable wooden toy vehicle line for kids.  Your young one is able to take apart wheels, body, and more!  My son Hans has the low-rider truck that comes with wide tires, red color accents, and adds on accessories.  Made from European beech wood, this truck rides smooth and allows the pieces to easily snap on and off.  What I love most about this brand other than the price is the ability to buy accessory pieces such as wide tires, car decals, and more!  Did I mention all of these pieces and cars are very reasonable in price?  As often as we go through toys in our home it’s a blessing to find a line that we can afford multiples of.

{Love}

In addition to the vehicles and accessory kits, Motorworks makes the coolest tri-level super garage and tuner lift station!  As I was searching the site my little man was begging for these for his birthday.  He’ll have to wait and see for now.  Have a look at this very cool and affordable interchanging wooden vehicle line Motorworks!

 
a Rafflecopter giveaway

No Comments | In: Ages- Elementary, Ages- Preschooler, Uncategorized | tags: Manhattan Toys, Motorworks, wooden toys. | #

Over 1 billion people celebrated Earth Day yesterday.  As one of the most celebrated holidays, why not get inside the Earth by watching the all-new Magic School Bus:  All about the Earth DVD!

Featuring three all-new, never-before-released episodes of the long-running Emmy® Award-winning science adventure series, the DVD also offers English and Spanish language options and includes the bonus episode “The Magic School Bus All Dried Up”.

Grab a seat on the bus and hang on for the three episodes, including “The Magic School Bus Goes to Seed”, where the class’ garden is going to be featured on the cover of Plant It! Magazine, but Phoebe’s garden plot is glaringly empty; “The Magic School Bus Blows its Top”, which explains volcanoes and shows Ms. Frizzles class how the earth makes islands and “The Magic School Bus Goes on Air”, which covers the mysteries and miracles of air pressure.

My two boys learned so much about the Earth from this DVD.  After watching “The Magic School Bus Blows to the Top” episode, we actually went to the store and brought a Volcano making set.  My boys were absolutely fascinated to see how much they understood the DVD.  Must check this out!

NewKideo.com is offering a reader a copy of The Magic School Bus: All about the Earth!  DVD.  Follow them on Facebook to enter!

For additional entries:

1)Please follow our Does Mommy Love It? Pinboards

10 Comments | In: Ages- Elementary, Ages- Preschooler, Dvd & Music, Educational | tags: Dvd, earth day, Educational, holiday, The Magic School Bus. | #

The sun is (finally) shining, and we are soaking it up! From adventures in our backyard to hours-long trips to the park, we are thrilled that Spring is here. Having a baby, though, has made me think twice before just recklessly leaving the house in pursuit of fresh air. My go-to accessory for Archer this year is his very own pair of sunglasses from Babiators. With a line of baby and  kid sunglasses, Babiators protects little eyes from harsh rays… and helps them look über cool.

Sporting the Rock Star Red sunglasses has made Archer quite the ladies (and mamas) man. Archer’s slow-growing hair has somehow shaped itself into a mohawk, so I couldn’t resist adding the glasses to his look. Each pair of Babiators protects eyes against 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Available in an array of colors, the protective lenses are shatter resistant (a feature I should look into for my own glasses…)

Be it Spring, Summer, Winter, or Fall, Babiators are essential in keeping your children’s eyes from being exposed to harmful rays. We love the sun & all it’s Vitamin D goodness, but know how important it is to be smart when outside! Just like their delicate skin; kids’ eyes don’t have the same natural defenses built up. (Up to 50% of lifetime exposure to UV rays happens before the age of 18.) Plus, cool shades up any tot’s street (playground) cred.

Babiators is so sure their glasses will last that they will send you a new pair if yours break! No questions asked, just register your pair upon purchase.

Babiators is offering one reader a pair of their choosing! What color fits your child’s personality best? Follow them on Facebook to enter, and let us know that you did so.

For additional entries:

1)Please follow our Does Mommy Love It? Pinboards

67 Comments | In: Accessories, Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Ages- Preschooler, Ages- Toddler, Contest | tags: Babiators, eyewear, giveaway, sunglasses. | #

It’s kinda crazy how much body wash and soap we go through in our household.  Soon to be a family of 5, I cannot imagine how many bars of soap we will go through in a year.  Knowing that we go through loads of bars of soaps and body wash containers I thought it was time to look into a company that benefits those in need by our purchase of cleansing products.  This is when I discovered the fabulous brand Hand in Hand!

{Hand in Hand Soap}

Understanding our environmental impact, we set out from day one to create a soap that was as eco-friendly as possible.  We wanted to be proud of our soap and develop a product that was made with sustainable resources, and harvested ethically” Bill said.  As such, Hand in Hand Soap is certified by both the Natural Products Association and Fair Trade USA.  ”To have a product that is truly eco-friendly, means more than just having natural ingredients.  We have found that many natural soaps use ingredients that ultimately come from intentionally cleared rainforests, which was something that we wanted no part in.  Every ingredient in our soap is not only natural, but it is harvested and grown in an environmentally friendly way.”

Knowing that every bar I purchase from Hand in Hand means a bar to save a child’s life is a huge incentive and reason to buy.  Aside from the incredible charitable donations and vision behind Hand in Hand I am over the moon impressed with their packaging and the effectiveness of their bars.  I received a few of their scents and cannot believe how divine the smell is.  The orange blossom happens to be a favorite and thankfully it is fair trade certified, palm oil free, and Made in Vermont!

{Love my Hand in Hand} 

Hand in Hand offers their bars in sets of two, three, five, or nine!  They make fabulous gifts for friends.  I love placing them in little goodie bags for my sisters because the packaging of the soaps is so beautiful and girly.  In addition to bars, Hand in Hand makes bath salts that are 100% natural with only natural salt mixed with their essential oils. Amaze!  In the same way as the bars, you buy a jar, they give a jar!

Have a look at this beautiful line of cleansing bars and salts.  All of their soap is shipped using eco-friendly packaging and comes with a free carbon offset!  There’s little excuse not to support such a fabulous and earth friendly company!  Kudos to Hand in Hand!

{This review is based strictly on my opinion. Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above.}

a Rafflecopter giveaway

1 Comment | In: Bathroom & Potty, Beauty | tags: bath salts, charity, fair trade, Hand in Hand, Made in USA, soap. | #

Adding a great deal of panache to my four year old son’s spring and summer wardrobes are three fantastic pieces from the comfortable basics clothing line, Little Label.  Little Label strives to make great pieces for your child’s every day use with style to spare and comfort aplenty.

 {Love the Cardigans!}

{coolest zip ups, sweat pants, and shorts}

My son has been wearing the cotton jersey cardigan in red on a regular basis and I love the warmth and comfort it provides on cool mornings and evenings.  Cardigans are a fantastic layering piece, easy to shed, and I’m glad to find such a great one for my son!  Also in heavy rotation are the 100 percent organic cotton shorts in tomato red.  These super soft and supple shorts are perfect for outdoor activities of all kinds!

{My son on the left wearing the cardi and vneck from Little Label} 

Looking amazing under the cardigan or on its own in warmer temperatures is Little Label’s V-neck tee shirt in anthracite.  The heather grey tee is super soft with 95 percent cotton and elasthan mix.  My son also wears it under his denim jacket for an all American look.

Little Label is a children’s basics line that is definitely worth checking out.  Top quality items that will last countless washes and seasons make wonderful additions to your child’s everyday garments.  Get your little one ready for spring and summer with Little Label!

{This review is based strictly on my opinion. Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above.}

No Comments | In: Ages- Elementary, Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Ages- Preschooler, Apparel, Uncategorized | tags: basics for kids, Clothing, Little Label. | #

It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of online shopping. I don’t really need to convince you, but here’s one more reason to love it: vine.com. Taking all of the best eco-friendly and organic brands and putting them at your fingertips, vine.com is absolutely brilliant. They have everything covered: from baby needs to the best in beauty!

It’s rare that I can find Archer’s diapers and a pair of bamboo pajamas in the same spot. Add in some soap and lotion, along with snacks for the kids, and it’s a complete shopping experience. I was like a kid in a candy shop while placing my first order! Seventh Generation! Caldrea! Green Apple! So so so very much to love. I was amazed that I could get so much shopping done from one site… but I shouldn’t have been. Like each member in their family of brands, vine.com thoroughly researches all products they offer in an effort to bring you only the best. With a commitment to helping families live green, all products are competitively priced (and ship for free within 1-2 days when you spend $35!) Look for all “vine picks” to help identify the best of the best, and perhaps help to introduce you to your next favorite brand.

In honor of Earth Day, vine.com is offering shoppers a one day only complimentary organic tote + Brita water bottle with a purchase of $35 or more on April 22. (Remember, orders ship fast & free at $35!) Using both the tote and water bottle will help reduce the amount of waste you are throwing out. Use code “Earthday35” for this great gift!

Never has living green been so easy. Simply replace some of your go-to household items with a more earth-friendly product! Make the switch at vine.com and, believe me, you won’t want to switch back.

Vine.com is generously offering one reader their own gift basket. Valued at over $75, this basket includes a pack of Seventh Generation overnight diapers, Bamboo Pajamas from Kicky Pants, Cladrea hand soap and lotion, as well as my kids’ personal favorite: Clif Kid Organic Twisted Fruit. All you need to do is follow them on Facebook and let us know that you did so! In the meantime, take advantage of the Earth Day-only tote & water bottle giveaway with your $35 purchase!

For additional entries:

1)Please follow our Does Mommy Love It? Pinboards

77 Comments | In: Ages- Elementary, Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Ages- Pregnancy, Ages- Preschooler, Ages- Toddler, Apparel, Bathroom & Potty, Beauty, Bottle Feeding, Breast Feeding, Cleaning, Clothing, Contest, Feeding, Fitness, Food, Green, Home, Kitchen, Organization, Special Offers and Discounts | tags: earth day, giveaway, organic, vine.com. | #