Monster Trax Convertible Car 12-Volt Battery-Powered Ride-On Giveaway!

Welcome to the Monster Trax Convertible Car 12-Volt Battery-Powered Ride-On Giveaway!

Photo Adapted from Monster Trax

Hosted by Thrifty Nifty Mommy and Co-hosted by Housewife on a Mission. 

Thrifty Nifty Mommy recently reviewed this Monster Trax ride-on toy. Youcan read all about it by clicking here. Then, enter to WIN your own Monster Trax Convertible Battery-Powered Ride-On NOW!

Open to residents of the US only, April 29- May 13th

Enter daily using the Rafflecopter form below!

Disclosure:  I received no compensation for sharing this post.  The participating bloggers are not responsible for sponsors who do not fulfill prize obligations.  
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Savy Saturday #1: Shopping Saving Tips

Savy Saturday #1: Shopping Savers

Welcome to the first installation of Savy Saturdays!  The goal of Savy Saturdays is to provide you with tips and tricks I have found to save a dollar (or two).  Hope you enjoy them!

As a mom, I am always looking for ways to buy things for my family that we need (sometimes want) but always while keeping in mind our very tight budget.  Over the last few years, I have discovered the following tips and tricks:

Consignment Shops: These places are a mom's heaven (if they are run right)!  They are often owned and managed by moms/dads and full of items that are brand new or like new.  The selection of items can range from baby to kids and even women to men. The items come at a cost of 50-80% off normal retail price, which is a great deal!  There are two ways these shops are run: 1) The consignors directly sell their items to the owner and the owner resells and keeps 100% of the sale 2)The consignors bring in their items, the shop owner chooses which to sell, prices them and then a % (usually between 30-40%) of the sale of each item is given to the consignor. I have found some wonderful deals at my local shop on toys, books, clothes, shoes and so much more at just a fraction of the cost and what is better is that I resell all of my baby/kids items that we never/hardly used and use the money I earn to purchase the items I need. It's like swapping what I don't need for what I do!

Thrift Stores (i.e. Goodwill):  Many years ago, it was considered embarrassing to step foot into one of these, but now times have changed and so have thrift shops.  What once was a mecca of old and worn out furniture, electronics, clothes and nick-knacks, has evolved into much more.  Now you can find brand new items from stores that donate them, such as Target and lots of items that no one can resell and in turn just donate.  For example, I purchase a ton of my children's books here.  At the cost of .59 a book, you can't beat it and a large number of them are in brand new to like new condition.  Considering that at a minimum a children's book can cost 4.99, I can buy 8 books for that! Yes, there is still a lot of "junk" to ignore, but if you go in focused on what you are looking for, you will be able to get in and get out in a reasonable amount of time. Unless of course, you are like me and simply enjoy the hunt for great deals!

The $ Stores: We all know them and there are a thousand different versions, but what I didn't realize for so long was how much I could save on things like holiday decorations and party supplies. I also love them for cards, books, art supplies, custom batteries for those little toys that your child loves, and so much more!  The one thing that I have learned is that these stores are hit and miss and there are some that have items that are more than 1$ each.  Once you find a good one that is the one to stick with!

Have a shopping money saving tip?  Please feel free to comment and share it below!

Hope you enjoyed this first installment of Savy Saturdays.  I look forward to next week!

MD Anderson Center Children's Art Project

If you love buying gifts that also give back and hold true meaning, then I highly suggest you check out The University of Texas MD Anderson Center Children's Art Project.  They sell beautiful artwork and gifts that all contain beautiful designs created by children's art.

About MD Anderson Center Children's Art Project (source: MD Anderson CCAP website)
Our Mission - To convey to the public the compassionate, caring face of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and to generate revenue to enhance patient services through the sale of products created with children's art.

Our Vision –The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Children's Art Project (CAP) will make life better for cancer patients and their families through the marketing and sale of innovative products based on the artwork of pediatric cancer patients.

Click Here to learn more about the programs funded by the Children's Art Project

Through worldwide sales of young cancer patients' original artwork featured on seasonal note cards and gift items, the project has returned more than $30 million to programs that benefit pediatric cancer patients and their families. The Children's Art Project's highest priority is ensuring young patients have opportunities to live a more normal childhood. Each year, the programs funded through sales touch more than 26,000 pediatric patients and families.

Quick Facts:

• Since 1973, CAP has contributed more than $30 million to fund patient-focused programs at MD Anderson.
• All products feature the original artwork of young cancer patients, which is created in weekly art classes that are funded by CAP proceeds.
• CAP is grateful for its support from thousands of community volunteers who contribute their time and talents year-round. Last year alone, volunteers donated almost 472,207 hours to the project – the equivalent of 232 full-time employees.
• CAP depends on support from retail and corporate partners. Currently, products are sold in more than 2,000 retail locations throughout the U.S. 

SMM Review:

They so kindly sent me a beautiful Blue Bouquet Scarf.  The artwork on the scarf was designed by Carrington.  Here is a little bit about her:
Carrington, from Midland, Texas, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia at age 15. She is currently attending Texas Tech University and one day hopes to become a college professor. Carrington is a prolific artist whose designs include “Boots,” “Presents,” “Stockings,” “Scarecrow,” “Fresh Paisley,” “Butterfly” and “Snowman.” 
Immediately upon opening the packaging, I fell in love with this scarf.  The scarf is lightweight and the fabric is 100% silk, which is soft on the skin and really beautiful.  The artwork on the scarf is perfect for the spring and can go with multiple types of outfits.  It will easily fit in on a cool spring day with a cute dress or casually with jeans and a plain top.  You can accessorize your work wardrobe easily and add a beautiful touch of color to your favorite suit. 
I absolutely love this scarf and it is quickly becoming one of my favorite accessories. My favorite part of this scarf is that is has Carrington's signature on it! I just love the meaning that this conveys and how special it feels. Overall, the whole project is wonderful and the beauty of this scarf is just the added bonus!  I highly recommend the next time you are shopping for yourself or someone you check out their website and buy a gift that warms the heart and gives back!

Learn More:You can learn more about this wonderful foundation and purchase gifts that give back by visiting their website. Below are pictures of some of the wonderful gifts they sell.

Kids N' Pets All-Purpose Instant All Purpose Stain & Odor Remover

About the Product (source: KIDS ‘N’ PETS website):

KIDS ‘N’ PETS Instant All Purpose Stain & Odor Remover was specifically designed for
cleaning up all those wet, messy and smelly “accidents” from kids and pets! You can safely use
KIDS ‘N’ PETS throughout your home to completely eliminate ANY biodegradable stain and
odor from carpets, upholstery, mattresses, auto upholstery and any other water safe surface!

KIDS ‘N’ PETS Instant All Purpose Stain & Odor Remover is your #1 choice against pet
urine stains and odors. Stains and odors are completely eliminated with no cover-up scents or
perfumes. This will aid in housebreaking new pets, potty training, bedwetting accidents and in
cleaning up after older incontinent pets as well.

SMM Experience:

KIDS ‘N’ PETS Instant All Purpose Stain and Odor Remover arrived at the “perfect” time for our home. It arrived just days before my daughter got the stomach flu. Since she is only 16 months, it is impossible for her to let us know before she “tosses her cookies”, so inevitably every soft surface in our house was affected by her flu. With previous stain/odor removers, the biggest issue I had was that although the stain removed fairly easy, the odor did not! Following her first episode (which happened to follow a big bottle of milk, yuck!), we applied the KIDS ‘N’ PETS, let it set and then dried it up. I immediately noticed that it removed the stain effortlessly, but also removed the gross smell! Sometimes with commercial cleaners, you are left with a very strong chemical smell, which can irritate sensitive noses and stomachs, but this product didn’t leave one at all! The scent left behind was pleasant and not over-powering.

Since this sickness, we have used this every time (which is after almost every bath) that my daughter
pees on our carpet. As I am sure you are aware, urine can leave a nasty odor if it’s not properly cleaned. Again, we just applied the KNP solution, let it set for a few minutes and then soaked it up with a rag. Easy and no urine smell!

I highly recommend this for anyone who has pets or children, as it is easy to apply and a no brainer for ridding your carpet and fabrics of stains and odors! I even use it on our floors or as a booster in our laundry and it works great! Versatile, affordable, easy to use and effective is the key to every mother’s heart!

Learn More: You can learn more about this fabulous product and the entire KIDS ‘N’ PETS product line on their website.

Buy: You can search for a store near you that carries this product on the KNP website.

Win: KNP is kind enough to offer our readers the chance to win a 32 oz. bottle of the KNP
Instant All Purpose Stain & Odor Remover

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Combi Stroller Winner!

And the lucky winner of the Combi Twin Savvy E Double Stroller is.....

.......Rebecca X.  Check your e-mail for confirmation of your shipping address.

Thanks to everyone who entered!

Giveaway Winners!

Aster Elliot
Addison K.

Easy Lunchboxes
Laurie N.

Robot Add-Ons
Jenna B.

PottyCover
Becky S.

Gabriel Cosmetics
Susan B.

Valco Baby
Jazmine Z.

Day #13: GRAND PRIZE!! Celebrate YOU! Pre-Mother's Day Giveaway Event!

It's the final day of the Thrifty Nifty Mommy Blogger Network Celebrate YOU Mother's Day Event.

Janessa from Thrifty Nifty Mommy has just reviewed the Amana 4.8 cu. ft. Self-Cleaning Electric Range and we've got one to give away to one lucky reader!

Read her review by clicking here, then enter to win below. Make sure you come back daily to get those extra entries in! Good luck and we hope you have an amazing Mother's Day!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Day #12 (Part 2): Celebrate YOU! Pre-Mother's Day Giveaway Event!

Thrifty Nifty Mommy Blogger Network is Celebrating You again today 

while also Celebrating Safety with Mobilefun.com as today's sponsor!

Check out We're Parents!? review and see how you can win you're own iPhone 4 or 4s Handsfree Car Mount by clicking HERE.

Day #12 (Part 1): Celebrate YOU! Pre-Mother's Day Giveaway Event!

Today we want to Celebrate You with a gorgeous, classy, personalized necklace that you can wear daily!

Photo Credits: South Hill Designs

Celebrate You by visiting Mommys Craft Obsession to check out her review on South Hill Designs, then enter to win a $30 Gift Certificate to build your own custom necklace! Use this link to go enter!

Day #11: Celebrate YOU! Pre-Mother's Day Event!

Today we are Celebrating You with Sexy Modest Boutique! The Thrifty Nifty Mommy gals love some great clothes , what woman doesn't? So today we are bringing you some great fashions to help you look great, which always leads to you feeling great!

  Amanda from Open Hands was given the opportunity to work with Sexy Modest Boutique and quickly fell in love with this little shop! Head on over to read her review and enter for the chance to win a $50 credit!

Day #10: Celebrate YOU! Pre-Mother's Day Giveaway Event!

The Thrifty Nifty Mommy Blogger Network is Celebrating You today by bringing you an amazing sponsor dedicated to making you feel and look your best!  

We're Parents!? has teamed up Isagenix to Celebrate moms trying to have a healthy lifestyle for their children.  While this probably wouldn't be your first choice of a gift for Mother's Day, it's the absolutely perfect gift to win to start becoming(or staying) healthy!  Read the full review, learn if We're Parents!? really noticed a difference, & enter to win a prize pack valued at $48 to kick start your healthy lifestyle HERE.

Day #10: Celebrate YOU! Mother of the Year: She Said What? Book Giveaway!

Mothers--our day is coming! That one day a year when you (hopefully) are pampered by your children and spouse. Every year, truly, I just pray that my children bless me by letting me sleep a solid 8 hours with no interruptions. I'm sure anyone with children under age 5 can relate! As mothers, we work hard! I'm not saying that motherhood isn't rewarding. It the biggest joy in my life, but we all need time for ourselves every now and then! This Mother's Day, send Dad out with the kids, then grab a glass of wine, fill the tub up, and relax in the quiet with a nice book--like this one!

Mother of the Year: She Said What? is a brand new book perfect for you to enjoy this Mother's Day!

Overview:

With bright, contemporary art and edgy, hilarious text, this is not your standard Motherly advice book. Rather it's a cheerful collection of sassy quips and true quotes from real Moms on topics ranging from breakups to childbirth.  On finding love, Chris's Mom offers this: "The best love is when you can learn to love yourself as much as your shoe collection". Warm and fuzzy? Not so much. Rather it's a quirky collection of counsel from Mothers who have "been there".

About the Authors:
In between cocktails, Artist Jodi Pedri and Writer Tonja Steel draw and write about all things fabulous. They were inspired to create this book from experiencing their own personal mamma drama! They reached out to their fan base and a flood of mother of the year stories emerged. Together, they have a singular mission: to create adorable and memorable gifts for Working Girls everywhere.

Mother of the Year is a hardback gift book, all color and 72 pages long. It's easy to read in 5-10 minutes and sure to brighten any mom's day! Pick it up today for your mom, wife, sister, or even yourself! It's perfect for any woman!

You can purchase Mother of the Year (along with other goodies from Working Girls Inc) by clicking here, or look for the book at Barnes and Noble. Also, make sure you like their page on Facebook, follow them on Twitter, and check out their blog!

The members of the Thrifty Nifty Mommy Blogger Network have teamed up with Working Girls Inc to offer our readers a fantastic giveaway! We have NINE copies of this book to give away to our readers! If you'd like to win just enter using the easy Rafflecopter Entry form below. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Love this blog? Please click the Top Mommy Blogs banner every day! This casts a vote for my blog today and helps me continue to get great products to share with you! You can vote daily! Thank you so much!

Day #9: Celebrate YOU! Pre-Mother's Day Giveaway Event!

Today we want to Celebrate You with the next best thing to going out and having a facial. That's right, we want to Celebrate You with amazing, quality, skin care products!

Sibu Beauty offers high quality natural skin care products that are made from Sea Buckhorn and are 100% cruelty free and vegan! Check out Mommys Craft Obsession's review on Sibu Beauty's Replenishing Night Cream and then enter to win one! 

Day #8: Celebrate YOU! Pre-Mother's Day Giveaway Event!

Today the Thrifty Nifty Mommy Network is here to Celebrate You again, because YOU totally deserve it!!

 As busy moms we are spending hours on our feet! Whether its running errands, chasing your toddler around the house or standing over the stove; by the end of the day you and your feet are exhausted!! So every woman deserves a great pair of shoes!! Amanda over at Open Hands has teamed up with Skechers to bring you a great giveaway today!! Head on over to read her review and enter to win a pair of BOBS for yourself!!

Day #8: Celebrate YOU! Pre-Mother's Day Event!

We're Parents!? is Celebrating You by teaming up with PinkletteSWYT Culture to bring you some amazing shoes that we've completely fell in love with and think any mom out there would be happy to have. One lucky reader is going to be able to pick their own to win! Read the full review & enter the giveaway HERE.

Day #7: Celebrate YOU! Pre-Mother's Day Giveaway Event!

It's time to Celebrate You with an item that will make meals on the go a lot easier! 

The PackIt is a freezable, foldable, lunch bag that keeps your food cold and fresh for up to 10 hours! Whether you use the PackIt for work, school, road trips, or just for when you're going to be away from your home for the day, you'll always know that you're feeding yourself (and your family, if you share your PackIt) heathy and with fresh foods! Check out the review and GIVEAWAY over at Mommys Craft Obsession! 

Day #6: Celebrate YOU! Pre-Mother's Day Giveaway Event!

Today the Thrifty Nifty Mommy Blogger Network wants to Celebrate You, with Brylane Home!

 Because as mom's sometimes we need to just sit down and enjoy a nice cup of coffee, or maybe have a place for our kids to eat outside so we're not constantly sweeping up crumbs! Amanda at Open Hands was given the chance recently to review two great items from Brylane Home! Head on over here to read her thoughts and enter to win a 3 Piece Bistro Set!

Day #6: Celebrate YOU! A Pre-Mother's Day Giveaway Event!

Today is the 6th day in the 'Celebrate You' Pre-Mother's
Day Event- a Thrifty Nifty Mommy Blogger Network 

event hosted by Mommy's Craft Obsession.

Megan from Housewife on a Mission has a review 

of Mixed Bag Designs with a $25 Gift Certificate giveaway!

Mixed Bag Designs makes it easy to shop & live in style!
 
Click HERE to read her review and enter to win
a $25 Gift Certificate to Mixed Bag Designs!

This giveaway is featured as part of our 'Celebrate You' event. 

For a complete lists of the reviews/giveaways in this event click HERE.

Day #5: Celebrate YOU! Pre-Mother's Day Giveaway Event!

Today's Celebrate YOU: A Pre-Mothers Day Event hosted by Thrifty Nifty Mommy Blogger Network
is sponsored by Hydro Pearls

These are amazing eco-friendly plant decorations that are the perfect gift for anyone.
Check out the review & giveaway from We're Parents!?  HERE.