Day #28: I Am In LOVE TNMBN Giveaway Event

It's the final day of the event and we hope you have enjoyed all
of the wonderful reviews and giveaways of the items we,
Today's sponsor is...
Up On the Hill is an online and brick & mortar store run by a mom and located in Sheperdstown, WV.  This store specializes in all-natural and eco-friendly products for moms, children and babies.  They sell a wide range of unique, made with love, all-natural items including diapers, teething necklaces, candles, chocolate, soap, toys, blankets, and so much more!  They feature items from top names in the mommy/baby industry, as well as those handmade by local moms.  I am so thankful that Amii at Up On the Hill has willing put together our grand prize package for the TNMBN I am in LOVE Event!

Details of this warm and sensual grand prize package, sponsored by Up On the Hill, are below:
Zum Glow in a Glass Candle - Patchouli Ylang Ylang
Bring some enlightenment, chill your chi and evaporate turbulent atmospheres with the cool-burning flame of these yummy smelling soy candles. We forecast 100% chance for sunny skies that rain down on the detritus of the day with all-natural soy wax, lead-free wicks and 100% pure essential oils. Bonus? Our soy candles are paraffin free.

Zum Bar Goat's Milk Soap - Patchouli Ylang Ylang
The simple gift of cleanliness is with the NEW Get Zum Bow Bar! Handmade with intoxicating and aphrodisiacal pure essential oils of patchouli and ylang ylang and the best all-natural ingredients, this bar is sure to set the mood for gettin' nude. Ingredients: Saponified 100% food grade olive, coconut, palm & castor oils, in a goat's milk base, with pure essential oils and natural colorings.

Zumbo Kiss Stick - Cinnamon Orange
It takes two to tingle with the NEW Cinnamon-Orange Zumbo Kiss made with pure essential oils and organic ingredients like shea butter, grapeseed oil, beeswax and honey. Loaded with massive amounts of moisture, this spicy duo will put the "go" in your tango. Not for sensitive skin!

Cassanova Caramels
Seduce your sense and your tastebuds with our exquisite 4 pc. Casanova Caramel Collection. This set features the finest organic and fair trade certified ingredients like sensual rose and exotic saffron. One each: Honey Saffron, Ginger Rose, Pink Salted, Lavender Jalapeno

Juniper Disk Nursing Necklace - Black and Dark Salmon 
This totally natural necklace is a must-have for every mom or just for those who loves nature and everything natural. It is made with crochet covered beads and apple wood beads.
These apple wood beads are made in Estonia using only local organically grown wood.

Learn More: You can learn more about Up On the Hill and the wonderful items they sell on their website.

Win: Use the entry form below to enter for your chance to win this lovely gift package!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Be sure to check out all of the open giveaways on Savy Mommy Moments!
Learn more and visit all of the members of the Thrifty Nifty Mommy Blogger Network!
*I was not financially compensated for this post. I received a product for review purposes. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience. Savy Mommy Moments and members of the Thrifty Nifty Mommy Blogger Network are not responsible for prize fulfillment. By entering this giveaway you are agreeing to all giveaway rules posted here*
 

Day #27: I Am In LOVE TNMBN Giveaway Event

It's Day 27 of the event and today's 
review & giveaway is brought to you by Open Hands.
and sponsored by...


 A few weeks ago a fun girls night out changed the way I feel about skin care! I was invited to a Lemongrass Spa Party and was excited that the hubs had the day off  so I was able to go. I can not tell you the last time I was able to make it to a "home show" of any type due to the busyness of life, but this one really intrigued me! 1- I had never heard of Lemongrass Spa and 2- a night of pampering sounded great!!

 I went to this spa party and was immediately impressed with all of the products! They are all handmade and free of chemicals. We did facials at this party, and I have to say at first I was not thrilled. I am totally not that  girl who goes around without makeup, I just don't feel comfortable...however leaving this party with my freshly washed face; my skin had never felt better!! So as at any home show I browsed the catalog and ordered some product, things like body wash (because I was almost out of mine at home and the almond body wash just sounded too good to pass up), some Tea Tree Bar soap (because I have heard amazing things about Tea Tree and thought why not?), and some Room Spray (because we are trying to cut back on our use of candles , but I love a good smelling home!).

  The next morning I woke up super bummed that I hadn't just went ahead and ordered the Face Kit because my face felt incredible!! Seriously, my skin was so soft that I didn't want to wash it! My hubs even commented on how soft it felt!

 So ....it wasn't long before I was talking with consultant Carrie about getting the face kit! During our talks Carrie & I thought it might be great to share about this great line with all of my amazing readers! Lemongrass products are so great that I am eager to share about them with everyone I meet!! They really are that incredible!

 Carrie was kind enough to offer me some products for review, I chose the Almond Body PolishLotion & Liquid Soap Caddy in Pomegranate & the Lavender Vanilla Massage Bar in a tin.

 I AM IN LOVE! with all of these items, the ones I have purchased and the ones I was given for review, there isn't one that I regret choosing! If I told you all the reasons I love them all this could become a very incredibly long and rambling post...so I will do this as quickly as I can! Ready????



 1- Almond Body Wash: the first day I used this I kept smelling something amazing & couldn't figure out what it was...it was ME!! this wash smells incredible and stays with you all day long!!

 2- Tea Tree Face Soap: This lathers up amazingly, I use it under my arms actually....it helps my natural deoderant work so much better!!

 3-Room Spray : My hubs loves this!!! I sprayed it on our bed the first day I had it and I expected him to complain a little, but nope he asked me to spray his pillow more!!!

 4- Ultimate Face Kit: Well, as I said my face feels amazing & my skin is looking better than ever!

 5- Almond Body Polish: This makes your skin so incredibly soft...I actually used it while shaving the other day just for kicks..my legs feel incredible!

 6-Lotion & Liquid Soap Caddy: as a mom of 3, with 2 in diapers I am washing my hands constantly, so they are always dry! This soap is incredible, my hands no longer are drying out and the lotion adds that extra softness (and the scent is great!)

 7- Massage Bar in a Tin: so many great uses!! To prevent stretch marks, or just as a great lotion!! I love a good back rub from the hubs and this is a great lotion to use!

 I truly wish I could convey to you how incredible these products are! I am so thankful that I was introduced to Lemongrass Spa & I firmly believe in their products. You can check out Carrie's website to see all of the fabulous products and be sure to like her Facebook page so you never miss a great deal!

 One of you will win a $50 credit towards your choice of product. Please fill out the entry form below for your chance to win, this giveaway will remain open until Wed. March 13th , Good Luck!!


1, 2 & Sometimes 3 - Children's Poetry Book

1, 2 & Sometimes 3
“Learn to Read, Rhyme, and have Fun at the same time!”

Authors Luke & Ben with Illustrator Ted
  Relive your childhood while experiencing the BEAUTY of poetry! Our poems and illustrations were designed to make young and old smile, laugh, reminisce and FEEL!  Back to a time when we questioned everything and wondered why the world is the way it is.  Back to a time when we were brutally honest, super silly, and allowed our imagination to run free.
1, 2, and Sometimes 3 is a collection of poetry written from the point of view of a young child.  This perspective is WONDERFUL because at that time in our lives, we had more similarities than differences and shared so many of the same experiences. Both children and adults will be entertained and enlightened as they read through these poems that remind us of life lessons and experiences. Poetry is an excellent medium to get children excited about reading.  It introduces them to the music and flow of words that other literature simply cannot do.
All three of us grew up reading the masterpieces of Shel Silverstein and hope we can pay homage to him with this book! Below you will find a sampling of poems and illustrations from our upcoming book. Happy Reading! Also, 1 copy donated to a Children’s Hospital for every 10 ordered!  

Savy Mommy Review: 
From beginning to end, this book is full of wonderful, kid-friendly poetry!  The poems all have important messages but are written in a way that they are playful and easy to understand.  As a parent, some of the poetry even serves as a good reminder about how things may appear to our children.  For example, I really like the poem "Parental Volume".  This one talks from the child's perspective about why parents yell and what a child should do so that their parents don't yell, but also helps remind the parents that yelling isn't always an effective way of getting your message through. My son's favorite poem is "Daddy's Feet". He likes it because it's silly and has a funny illustration of stinky feet to go with it.  As a parent, it can be easy to overlook teaching our children poetry beyond the simple rhymes so I am really glad this is part of our book collection!  This book is wonderful for any little one ages 3+ to learn about how fun poetry can be! 

Learn More: You can learn more about this book and see a free preview on Amazon.

Buy: The hard copy and Kindle version are available on Amazon.  Keep in mind that for every 10 books purchased, they donate 1 copy to a Children's Hospital! 
Win: Use the form below to enter to win a hard copy of this book.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Be sure to check out all of the open giveaways on Savy Mommy Moments and Open Hands!
*I was not financially compensated for this post. I received a product for review purposes. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience. Savy Mommy Moments and Open Hands are not responsible for prize fullfillment. By entering this giveaway you are agreeing to all giveaway rules posted here*

Day #26 (Part Two): I Am In LOVE TNMBN Event - Review


Its Day 26 (Part Two)


of the I'm in LOVE event hosted by the Thrifty Nifty Mommy Blogger Network, and we're in love with Daddy Scrubs!


About daddy Scrubs:
"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." 



For my review, I was sent the Daddy Scrubs diaper pack.  We only have two diaper bags but they are rather girly for the hubs' taste.  My cousin said she learned after her first that backpack style diaper bags were the best option, and since Daddy Scrubs designs products to help the new daddy feel involved and special as well, the diaper pack helped knock out 'two birds with one stone' so to speak.  We like to babywear every chance we get, and the diaper pack sure has made this easier!  At first glance it looks like a normal backpack, but upon further investigation you'll find that the pockets are specifically designed for bringing all of the baby necessities with you on-the-go.  It rocks the trademark 'I'm the Daddy' logo on the front pocket as well as on a shoulder strap so the daddy can flash his baby gear too.

(bottom left, back compartment with burp cloths, swaddles, extra clothes, and toys)
(bottom right, medium wetbag with five cloth diapers, wipes, and diaper rash spray)

There's two large  'main' compartments.  While I do wish this was combined into just one compartment, having two works out great for separating all of the diaper necessities into one and blankets, toys, and clothes into the other.



There's two pockets on each side to hold bottles, sippy cups, and stretchy enough to even hold my bulky Tervis mug!The front of the diaper bag is divided into three pockets.  The bottom pocket is insulated to hold bottles, baby food, or any snacks you would like to keep warm or cold.


The middle pocket has extra pockets within it for organization.  I use it to just hold my wallet so I never use them, but its nice to have the option for when I do.  There's a mesh pocket, a zippered pocket, slots for keys, money, etc, and space left over for a pacifier or two.


I use the top pocket for small items I would like to keep on hand like teething tablets or hand lotion, but when the hubs is using the diaper pack he uses it to protect his sunglasses.  The diaper pack can be adjusted for wider or smaller loads by a strap that runs across it, but we like to link toys on it to keep within Buddy Doo's reach.

Specific features of the Daddy Scrubs diaper pack include:
• Two roomy compartments for diapers, wipes, clothes, and toys
• Insulated cooler pocket for snacks
• Organizer pocket for keys, money, pacifiers, and small toys
• Fleece lined pocket for sunglasses and more
• Mesh side pockets for extra baby bottles and water bottles
• One Size: 19 x 12 x 9" 
• Materials: 840D polyester Dobby (black)



Overall, I can fit a lot of stuff in it when the straps are let out.  This is very important for a cloth diapering momma!  While hubs still feels awkward toting a backpack-style diaper pack around at 27 years of age, he agrees that he definitely prefers the Daddy Scrubs bag over any of the diaper bags I've swooned over.  As a first time mom, when we leave the house we take everything but the kitchen sink with us! Just like when you're comparing baby carriers, wider and more supportive shoulder straps is what you need to look for and this diaper pack has it.  It saves both of our backs (Buddy Doo is heavy enough!).  While I still like wider bags over deep bags, I highly recommend getting this diaper pack as a second bag.  After all, becoming a new dad is just as special as becoming a new mom......and it saves you from having to lug everything around! -wink-
Buy it: You can purchase the Daddy Scrubs diaper pack for $69.95 here.

Connect it: Follow Daddy Scrubs on Facebook and Twitter to stay up-to-date on new products, promotions, and giveaways!


Disclosure:  I received one or more of the products mentioned above in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  All opinions are my own and may differ from yours.  Buddy Doo's Adventure-Roos!, Savy Mommy Moments, and the participating blogs of the Thrifty Nifty Mommy Blogger Network and not responsible for sponsor's prize fulfillment or shipment.

Hyland's Ambassador: Name the Hyland's Tooth Fairy!


I am really proud to announce that Savy Mommy Moments has been chosen as a Hyland's Ambassador for 2013!  Since my first interaction with Hyland's were their life-saving (more like sanity-saving) teething tablets, I am so happy to announce the Hyland's Tooth Fairy Naming Contest! 
 
Name the Hyland's Tooth Fairy: Anyone can enter submissions to name the new Hyland’s Tooth Fairy. Participants will vote on the top 10 and each of the finalists will receive a Hyland’s Baby Teething Onesie and Hyland’s Baby Teething Tablet product. From the top 10 submissions, Hyland’s will choose a  grand prize winner with the most fitting name and award that person with a Hyland’s Baby Basket, $200 Visa Gift Card, Hyland’s Baby Teething Onesie and custom-made First Tooth Certificate. The contest will last 4 weeks.

How do you enter? Visit the Hyland's Teething Facebook Page to learn more and enter!

More Tooth Fairy Fun! Hyland's will be debuting a new section of their website!  It will feature a place where parents will be able to download a “First Tooth Certificate”, “Teeth Chart” and “I got my first tooth” badges that they can personalize with their child’s info to build their own keepsakes.  Check it out HERE on or after February 28th!

Introducing Earth's Best Reward Program!

New Earth’s Best Loyalty Program!


This month, Earth’s Best is proud to announce the Earth’s Best Awards Program! With this new loyalty program, you can earn points from your Earth’s Best purchases and redeem them for great discounts and prizes. The Earth’s Best™ Rewards program is our way of saying thank you for raising your little one as part of generation pure.

Using your home computer, smartphone, or other mobile device, simply sign up for the program, then check in at your local Earth’s Best retailer on your mobile device via our mobile site. After you create your Earth’s Best profile, earning points is easy. Just check in when at your local Earth’s Best retailer, purchase Earth's Best products, and enter the UPC codes on our site within 48 hours after you return home. You can also earn points by reading our articles, sharing with friends, and more. When you have accumulated points, you will be able to redeem them by selecting from an array of rewards for both you and your baby.

Other prizes include:

  • A chance to win prizes every month like $500 in Earth’s Best products, or every week like an Earth’s Best gift pack!
  • Discounts on a variety of great products like TinyPrints.com, Celestial Seasonings Tea, Little Remedies, and Spa Week
  • Reward prizes from partners like Music Together

Day #26 (Part One): I Am In LOVE TNMBN Giveaway Event

Day 26 (Part One) of I AM IN LOVE event is hosted
 by We're Parents?! and sponsored by Scarlet's Naturals.


About the company: Scarlet's Naturals was started about they noticed their little girl was highly sensitive to commercial baby items and decided to make their own products to control what went on her skin.  They began sharing with friends and word spread about how awesome these products are. 

Since having our baby, I've become much "crunchier".  I strive to use products that are naturally made and healthy for both of us.  Scarlet's Naturals does just that.  All products are safe for sensitive skin and also cloth diaper friendly which is awesome.  All products use locally found ingredients, which include their own home grown honey and beeswax from their own hives.  I have been using their hiney honey cream since baby was born and it clears up her rashes right away.  


For our event I was sent their lotion, chapstick, and cold & chest comfort balm and I'm just as in love with these products as I am with everything else I have tried from them. 

Luckily, we haven't had a cold around here (**knock on wood**) so I haven't gotten a chance to try the cold and chest comfort balm.  It smells yummy though! It is a petroleum free product that is safe to use from birth into adulthood.  It can be applied under the nose, on the chest or at the bottoms of feet.  You can also add 1/2 teaspoon into a humidifier to make a steam inhalant.  The ingredients are simple: coconut oil, shea butter, beeswax, lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary, and spearmint.     

IMG_4152 - Copy

Scarlet's Lip Honey is a petroleum free lip balm. The ingredients include; Coconut Oil, Beeswax, Sweet Almond Oil and Avocado Oil.  My lips get crazy chapped in the winter.  I am constantly looking for an effective chapstick to use, but can never find one that I have immediately fell in love with (until now). This is a non-greasy and fast healing lip balm.  Just after one time using I could tell a difference in my lips.  They felt so smooth.  I can use this just twice during the day and my lips feel amazing and don't dry out the entire day. The fact that it's natural and safe is just an added benefit.  Flavors include coconut, strawberry, vanilla mint, and natural/unscented.

Lip Honey-cropped

I have crazy sensitive skin.  It's hard for me to even attempt to use new lotions because I just never know how my skin is going to react.  I have eczema pretty bad on my hands this winter so I was nervous to use it, but it works great.  It did burn a little where my eczema is super bad, but any lotion I use does this, so I wasn't surprised.  It did moisten my hands very well and actually helped my eczema clear up some just after a few uses. You just need a small amount and I actually noticed by using too much it seems sort of greasy until you can get it all rubbed in.  You just have to keep rubbing.  So I love knowing that I just need a small amount to moisturizer my hands. I got pearberry scent, but it also comes in Soothing Lavender, Oatmeal Milk & Honey and unscented. 

The lotion is 100% chemical free. It uses Lanolin, Vitamin E, Aloe Vera, and coconut oil to both protect and moisturize your skin. Because lotions can be temperamental and harbor dangerous bacteria, a small amount of preservatives are added to the lotion; however, they are paraban and formaldehyde free.

Honey Lotion

Their product line has everything above plus cloth diaper wipe solution, diaper rash creams, nursing balm, bug bite spray, lotions, laundry care, sunblock, and so much more. Their prices are amazing for the quality and size of the products you get.

I AM TRULY IN LOVE with Scarlet's Naturals.





BUY IT: You can purchase all products HERE


WIN IT: One lucky reader will get $20 to spend! Just fill out the Rafflecopter form below.  Open to US/Canada.  Giveaway will end at 12:00am EST on 3/13/13.  Good luck! 



Day #25: I Am In LOVE TNMBN Giveaway Event

It's Day 25 of the event and today's 
review & giveaway is brought to you by Savy Mommy Moments.
Are you a mom looking for a book you can actually relate to? (Yes, there are a lot of "parenting books" that claim this).  Then I encourage you to check out Must.Have.Wine. A Toast to Motherhood!
About:
It’s a modern moms’ mantra, no matter what type of day we’re having; when we’ve come to the end of our rope, had the best day ever, or simply just want to unwind.
Along with that glass of wine, we find comfort in knowing other moms are going through the same things we are. Must. Have. Wine. A Toast to Motherhood, is a collection of relatable stories by everyday moms assuring that none of us are perfect and we’re all in this crazy race together.
If you’re looking for a reason to pour that glass of wine tonight, we’ve got 81 reasons you should!  
  • Always feeling guilty about something you did or didn’t do? “Guilt Will Always Be There, Let Love Triumph” is the story for you! See Reason #4.
  • Tired of your hubby putting the moves on you when all you need is another hour of sleep? Been there! You must read “Midnight Lovin’!”  See Reason #58.
  • Is the constant wailing from your colicky baby enough to make you want to lock yourself in the closet and bawl your eyes out?  Read another mother’s colic survival story in “This Too Shall Pass.” See Reason #37.
  • Think you’re the only mom who can’t brave the McDonald’s playland slide to save your toddler? You’ll laugh out loud when you read “I’m Not Lovin’ It!” See Reason #15.
With savvy wit and a healthy dose of reality, Must.Have.Wine. A Toast to Motherhood. takes you on the emotional journey we all experience as mothers, while gracefully offering advice and an aura of camaraderie. Each chapter offers stories that complement the ups and downs of this wondrous and challenging role we’re all living:
Chapter 1 inspires—Let go of your mommy guilt and embrace your imperfections!
Chapter 2 amuses—Laugh out loud as you are reminded of the funnies from your own zany life with young children.
Chapter 3 encourages—In our darkest of days it’s comforting to know we will survive.
Chapter 4 delights—Giggle at the fun and often cute moments of motherhood.
Chapter 5 relieves—For those stressful and frustrating times…know that you’re not alone.
Chapter 6 indulges—Sweet tales remind us why we’re blessed to be moms.
   Whether you’re headed to a baby shower, looking for a holiday gift, or buying for a friend’s birthday—Must.Have.Wine. makes the perfect gift for any mommy in your life: your sister, your best friend, or even…yourself.
Together, let’s raise our glasses to toast the laughter, the tears, and this zaniness we call motherhood.

SMM Review:
Immediately upon opening this book, I could tell I was going to enjoy it.  The chapters are each split out based on a "theme" and then paired with a wine that has the attributes that match the chapter. As I read through each story, I felt that I could easily relate to the writer as I had experienced, as a mom, many of the same or similar situations.  There were chapters that made me laugh so hard I cried and others that reminded me how precious life can be.  There are stories of incomprehensible strength and courage that made me proud of the mother who wrote them and those that made me embarrassed along with them.  Over the course of reading the entire book, I felt a wide range of emotions and in the end I grew as a mother and woman.  I will carry many of these stories with me as a reminder to what is truly important in life and that although things aren't always perfect or how you imagined them, it's the way you react that matters the most.  This book will be passed on to many mothers I know, including my own, as I too think everyone can benefit from it. In the end, we mothers are all the same, as we love our children and are their advocates forever. 

Read More: Learn more about this wonderful book and the authors on their website.

Buy: This book is available in both hard copy and Kindle version on Amazon. It will make a great gift for any mom or mom-to-be in your life!

Win: The writers are offering our readers the chance to win one of two copies of this book! Simply use the entry form below to enter.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Check out all of Savy Mommy Moment's open giveaways here!
Check out all of Thrifty Nifty Mommy's open giveaways here!
*I am part of the Thrifty Nifty Mommy Blogger Network managed by Thrifty Nifty Mommy. I was not financially compensated for this post. I received a product for review purposes. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience. Savy Mommy Moments and Thrifty Nifty Mommy are not responsible for prize fullfillment. By entering this giveaway you are agreeing to all giveaway rules posted here*

Funbites Cube It Winner

Congratulations Marya Mann! Your prize will be shipped to the address you provided.
Thank you all for reading and entering!

Woolzies Winner

Congratulations Nikki Cunningham! Your prize will be shipped to the address you provided.
Thank you all for reading and entering!

SMQ Organics Winner

Congratulations Beth Rees! Your prize will be shipped to the address you provided.
Thank you all for reading and entering!

Earth's Best Welcome Pack Winner

Congratulations Rebecca Stewart! Your prize will be shipped to the address you provided.
Thank you all for reading and entering!

Earth's Best Yogurt Puffs Winner

Congratulations Rebecca Stewart! Your prize will be shipped to the address you provided.
Thank you all for reading and entering!

Pumpstrap Winner

Congratulations Kristi Cartwright! Your prize will be shipped to the address you provided.
Thank you all for reading and entering!

Day #24: I Am In LOVE TNMBN Giveaway Event






Hey guys it's Alex from Mommys Craft Obsession!


While I was pregnant with Baby A, registering for my baby shower, I really had no clue when it came to baby products. When it came time to register for a baby monitor I figured the simpler the better and registered for the cheapest one that I could fine. Yeah, that really happened. Baby A didn't move to his "big boy bedroom" until he was about 8 months, but by the time I moved him into his own room I knew that I wouldn't love that cheap little baby monitor I had registered for many months before. 

It was only a matter of time before I began to lust over video baby monitors. I wanted to be able to see my little man while he slept, while he played in his bedroom, and even while I wasn't home. Being a parent, piece of mind means everything, and with the help of NextStep Baby Monitors you can have piece of mind 24/7 as simply and quickly as opening up an app on your phone.


NextStep Baby Monitors is a family owned and operated company in Southern California. One thing to note about NextStep Baby Monitors is that their monitors and cameras are not made by them, in fact you can find the baby monitors that they sell in many other retailers. So why purchase with NextStep Baby Monitors? The answer is really quite simple. As a parent, you don't have all the time in the world to sit down and figure out how to properly install something while trying to decode the gibberish written in the instruction manuals. NextStep Baby Monitors makes the installation process simple and quick because they understand how concentrating while your toddler is awake is like wrestling blindfold with 10 lobsters- you will lose.

When you go out and purchase electronics and baby gear, it can be extremely frustrating when you can't figure out how to put it together or set it up. Am I right? Personally, I hate reading instructions and I will try to put something together without reading them. Seriously, I never read instructions, but there are some things you just have to read the instructions on before you can set up. Like baby monitors for example, especially "high tech" ones. I am absolutely horrible at technology. I can do the basics on the computer like edit a photo, create a blog, surf the web, but when it comes to the logistics and doing things that include (but are not limited to) setting up WiFi, working with a router, knowing what IP numbers to look for and other things like that, I will openly and wholeheartedly admit that I may as well be looking at a foreign language. I can imagine that I am not the only one who feels this way. Realistically you're probably sitting here shaking your head an agreement. So when it comes to trying to figure out how to install your baby monitor while your baby is probably pulling on your shirt, climbing on your back, or throwing toys at your head, I guarantee you will want to know how to get it set up as quickly and as simply as possible. And that my friends, is where NextStep Baby Monitors comes in! NextStep Baby Monitors takes frustrating, vague, manufacturer instructions and manuals and turns them into simplified step by step instructions that are easy to follow, even when you have little ones distracting you!

NextStep Baby Monitors generously sent me their NextStep IP Pro monitor which is made by the manufacturer Foscam. I was very excited to be receiving a Foscam because it was a brand that I was semi familiar with because my mom and dad have one in their home to spy on their dogs. I knew that if I had any trouble down the road I could ask my dad for help with it. As excited as I was to be receiving a NextStep IP Pro (Foscam) I was also really nervous! My dad told me that it had a very complicated and time consuming set up that even he struggled with slightly- and that's saying something considering he is the most tech savvy person I know. When it arrived I was super excited to get it out of the box and start my attempt of a set up! 

The camera itself is a sleek and will fit compactly almost anywhere in your child's room. The only flat surface in Baby A's room at the moment is his changing table so I had to do some rearranging to make room between his lamp and his baby wipes warmer. This location actually works out wonderfully though, it faces Baby A's crib and scans his entire room so if he is playing I can peak in on him without having to stop and go look if I am cleaning or cooking dinner, or whatever else I may be doing! If you do not have a flat surface in your childs bedroom, the Foscam does come with a mounting unit that you can mount to the wall. I plan on mounting the monitor once we buy a house, but while we rent I figured it was best to not add any extra holes in the wall! By far the best thing about this monitor is that you use your phone, tablet, or computer as the "parent unit" which means that you can see your little one anywhere, anytime. I have even spied on my dogs while I wasn't at home thanks to the NextStep IP Pro (Foscam)!


You will notice that there are small lights around the lens of the camera, these lights turn on when the room is dark so that you can see your little on in night vision. 


Let's talk about the root of NextStep Baby Monitors. The Instruction Manual. I can honestly say that because of the step by step instructions created by NextStep Baby Monitors I was able to fully install my IP Pro by myself! I had one minor stumble which was 100% my fault, I was trying to create a log in for my IP Camera account and mistyped my password causing me to be locked out of my camera! The issue was very simply resolved with a quick phone call to NextStep Baby Monitors. They were able to walk me through the reset process in about thirty seconds and within two minutes I was getting myself re-set up. The NextStep manual makes it so simple to set up your camera with their step by step instructions, detailed photos, and even photos with arrows and notations showing you exactly what you should be looking for on your computer, where to plug in new numbers from your router, and even how to set up your camera so that you can use it from outside of your wireless network. Although the manual had step by step instructions on how to set up your router so that you can access your camera while you are out of the house, that part made me very nervous so I decided to set up a phone appointment with Adam at NextStep Baby Monitors to get it set up correctly! During the duration of the phone call Adam was very respectful and friendly, he walked me through everything that I needed to do on my end, then using remote access he hopped onto my computer and set everything up. Prior to mentioning he was finished he promptly logged out of my computer before completing his conversation with me. He then helped me set up my iPhone app so that I could view the camera when I was away from my home! If I had to give NextStep Baby Monitors a letter grade for customer service they would get an A. 


Below are photos that I have taken directly from the Foscam. Using the recommended App (available for purchase in the iPhone App Store for $3.99) you are able to move the camera, take photos, take videos, turn audio on and off, and even speak to your child! 

Baby A putting things in his crib for safe keeping.

Mr. Hunky checking on Baby A.

Baby A fast asleep (with his lamby hanging off of the crib).

Me spying on Mrs. Bow Jangles while we were out to breakfast. Please don't mind my dusty bookshelf (ew).

The NextStep IP Pro is compatible with Apple and Android products. If you are interested in getting more information about NextStep Baby Monitors take a look at this YouTube video that they made! 


I am so impressed with the quality of this company that I would personally recommend you and all of my friends and family to purchase a baby monitor from NextStep Baby Monitors if you want not only a quality product, but quality customer service as well. My expectations were exceeded with this company and the best part is, if you purchase from them you get a LIFETIME support guarantee  That's right! If you purchase from them and six years from now have a question they will be there to help you out! How many companies can you say will do that?

To Purchase: Visit NextStep Baby Monitors!

Before you leave, I am SO excited to give tell you...

NextStep Baby Monitors wants to give you the opportunity to win a NextStep IP Pro of your own!

Enter Below

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Giveaway will close late on the evening of March 10th. The winner will be chosen at random through Rafflecopter which uses Random.org. The winner will be announced both on Rafflecopter as well as MCO’s Facebook. The winner will have their prize sent to them by NextStep Baby Monitors. Must be 18 years and older. Mommys Craft Obsession and Savy Mommy Moments are not responsible for the prize shipment. US Only.

*This review is 100% original and in my own words. Everything written is from my own personal view point and opinions, what works for me, may not work for you. All photos have been taken by me unless stated otherwise. I have been provided with product to review by NextStep Baby Monitors however I have not been compensated monetarily for this review. Mommys Craft Obsession is participating in an event hosted by Savy Mommy Moments therefore some entries may benefit her blog as well.


Day #7: Music & Me - Disney's Choo Choo Soul

Do you have a Disney Junior fan in your house? If so, then I am happy to introduce you to one of Disney's newest releases: Choo-Choo Soul Disney Favorites.
About Choo Choo Soul:
Genevieve Goings (the singing conductor) and Constantine “DC” Abramson (the beat boxing and breakdancing engineer) are the urban music sensation singing about ABC’s, 123s and trains for the preschool audience.

About the Soundtrack:
Award-winning Choo Choo Soul is back! Get ready to sing and dance along to your favorite Disney songs performed the only way Genevieve and DC know how to, with an urban twist! Choo Choo Soul: Disney Favorites features all-time classics such as “When You Wish Upon a Star” “Under the Sea” and many more.

About Choo Choo Soul “Disney Favorites” music videos:
Genevieve and DC from Disney Junior's popular short form music video-style series "Choo Choo Soul" are embarking on 8 all new adventures in "Disney Favorites" music videos including beloved favorites such as “Under the Sea,” “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” “Let's Go Fly A Kite” and “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah.”

Choo Choo Soul: Disney Favorites Album Track List:
1. “Hakuna Matata” 

2. “Under the Sea” 

3. “The Bare Necessities” 

4. “Give a Little Whistle”
5. “When Will My Life Begin”
6. “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”
7. “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes”
8. “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah

9. “Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo”
10. “Let’s Go Fly a Kite”

11. “Be Our Guest”
12. “When You Wish Upon a Star”
 

Our review:
Choo-Choo Soul on Disney Junior is one of my son's favorite shorts and so I was thrilled to have the opportunity to review this new CD!  What is even more exciting is that the music is sung by his favorite Choo-Choo Soul singers, but the songs are Disney classics! Although my son doesn't know all of these, my husband and I do!  We just love hearing the songs that bring back such happy memories from our childhoods, all the while our kids enjoy their favorite Choo-Choo Soul singers! Our favorites are definitely, "Under the Sea", "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious", and "Be Our Guest"!  I know that this is definitely a favorite in our music collection!

Find out more: For more information on Walt Disney Records’ releases, please visit their website, become a Facebook fan or follow them on Twitter.

Buy: Choo-Choo Soul Disney Favorites became available on January 29, 2013 and can be purchased anywhere music is sold. The CD and MP3 tracks can be purchased online on Amazon.

Win: Complete the entry form below for your chance to be 1 of 3 winners of a copy of the Choo-Choo Soul Disney Favorites CD


Be sure to check out all of the my open giveaways here
*I was not financially compensated for this post. I received a product for review purposes. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience. Savy Mommy Moments is not responsible for prize fullfillment. By entering this giveaway you are agreeing to all giveaway rules posted here*

Day #23: I Am In LOVE TNMBN Giveaway Event

It's Day 23 of the event and today's 
review & giveaway is brought to you by Open Hands.
and sponsored by...


Sweet Baby girl is at such a fun age of learning and becoming much more active, the days of her sitting contently in her swing for longer than 30 minutes are pretty much over! We recently were sent a new entertainer from Bright Starts.

 Bright Starts is a great company! Actually the very first exersaucer that we owned and used with out first two kids is from Bright Starts and we loved it, so we were thrilled to have the chance to try out the new Bounce, Bounce Baby with baby girl.

 When the Bounce, Bounce Baby arrived the hubs was at work and all of the kiddos were napping!! SO I set out to put the entertainer together, the assembly was really easy! The hardest part for me was getting the seat strapped into the seat rim. It took me just about 30 minutes to get it completely together.


  I LOVE the Bounce, Bounce Baby for many reasons! The first thing is the size, we go to my parents house a lot so having a toy over their for baby girl is very important. When our boys were small we had an exersaucer at their house, but it was just too big to keep at their house conveniently. The Bounce, Bounce Baby is in a triangle shape which is great for saving space.



 Baby girl loves the entertainer! She will sit in it for over an hour and happily play! We kept it at our house for about a week and then took it over to my parents the night of the Super Bowl , and she stayed up late and played for most of the game in it.




  The toys on this are so much fun for our baby girl, there are a great variety and they keep her very happy. The only thing I would like to add to this would be a toy that makes some noise, which you can do on your own... there is a toy loop for you to attach baby's favorite toy to! And as we know babies love to bounce, their is a bungee jumping platform that sweet girl loves.

 Wanna hear the best thing about this amazing entertainer??? Not only is it small & fun, its affordable! You can purchase this at Target or from Amazon for just $39.99!! What an incredible deal! Whats better than that? Well one of you will win one! Please fill out the entry form below for your chance to win. This giveaway will remain open until Saturday March 9th, Good Luck!