Sunday, March 29, 2009

Bake Me A Wish!

I love Birthdays and Holidays!!! To celebrate life's biggest events, we always share an elaborate meal with those we love. No feast is complete without the cake. Bake Me A Wish! ships decadent desserts to your home. The cakes are moist and packed with flavor. The icing is rich and creamy.
We were treated to a Triple Chocolate Enrobed Brownie Cake! Is it as good as it sounds? No. It's better! Much better. The moist and fudgy brownie cake goes through three chocolate "passes" before it's finished. First, it's enrobed in rich velvety chocolate. To further tempt you, it gets completely blanketed with a generous shower of dark chocolate shaves. To put you over the edge, the cake is finished with milk and dark chocolate glazes drizzled all over and the Belgian chocolate plaque of your choice. Of course we chose "Happy Birthday"! This is one must-have brownie dessert that's over-the-top-triple-delicious!



Bake Me A Wish! cakes are baked in an award-winning New York City bakery, and they can be sent overnight, nationwide and are guaranteed to arrive on the day you request or your money back! Each delicious cake arrives in a beautiful gift box and includes a greeting card that you can personalize. Our cake had flipped upside down at one point during shipping. There was a small amount of chocolate on the wrap where the cake made an impression. When I removed the cake from the box, the cake was in perfect condition. There were no smears of icing on the cake. No damage! Everything was perfect!


Some time ago, I was watching a program on a food network channel. They were discussing a cake company that shipped cakes to our military members overseas on their big days! After receiving my cake and extensively browsing their site,I was surprised to see that I found that "cake company" and I wanted to share their information with you! "5% of your order will also be contributed to Bake Me A Wish!'s Operation: Birthday Cake, which, with our partner Soldiers’ Angels donates birthday cakes each month to soldiers overseas. When you purchase the Freedom Cake for a recipient here in the US, Bake Me A Wish! will deliver a gourmet cake to a soldier serving overseas, in the name of your recipient. The Freedom Cake features a layer of deluxe chocolate brownie thickly blanketed with smooth & creamy fudge frosting, with an avalanche of sprinkles adorning the top and bittersweet chocolate shavings all along the sides. Each cake features a special card informing the recipient that a cake has been sent to a soldier in their name, alongside an imprint of the American Flag. Soldiers overseas will receive this exact same cake you order here!"


I support our troops and I am very proud of the commitment Bake Me A Wish! has made to remember our troops and bring them smiles (and cakes) from home. Please support them so that our troops will continue to receive Birthday Wishes and Cakes from Bake Me A Wish!

Sweet Birthday Tees And Party Dresses From Olive And Ollie!



Every little Birthday Boy or Girl needs a special Birthday Tee from Olive & Ollie! Your little guy or gal will look so cute in this custom First Birthday appliquéd shirt and bib set. The shirt has a large appliqued number "1" and "one!" on the front! The design is made using a fun lime green fabric with playful monkeys and a coordinating yellow striped fabric. The long sleeve light blue tee is 100% pre-washed cotton (no shrinking) and it is made by American Apparel in size 12-18 months. The appliqué is hand cut, and it has two layers of interfacing, and it is heat fused. The applique is then machine sewn around the edges with a zig zag in coordinating thread for design and durability! The chenille bib coordinates beautifully and features the same monkey fabric with a "1" appliquéd on the front. Only CPSIA compliant metal snaps are used. It fits babies and toddlers and the two snaps ensure a perfect fit each and every time! To wash, simply turn the shirt inside out and toss it (along with the bib) into your washing machine. For best results, use cold water and tumble dry on low heat.

I fell in love with so many designs from Olive & Ollie! Aside from the large selection of birthday tees, you can find other adorable tees and lounge sets, bibs, and blankets! The dinosaur tees are perfect for little boys! With Easter approaching, you can't go wrong with a Modern Bunny Rabbit Tee! I love the beautiful Amy Butler fabrics and the playful designs. The quality is so impressive, wash after wash, these tees will hold up! No strings, no frayed edges.

If Birthday Tees are not on your list, but you need a cute little party dress, check out Olive & Ollie's Reversible Pinafore! This is one of my favorite little dresses so far! The design is perfect for parties and perfect for play. If I ever have a little girl, she'll be an Olive & Ollie girl for sure! Dressed to perfection, this Reversible Pinafore is so versatile. It's like two tops in one, with adorable Lotus Lacework in Brown on one side and my favorite, Full Moon Dots in Lime on the other. She can wear it alone or with bloomers, leggings, or jeans, and it can even be layered over a long sleeve tee or blouse for year-round wear! Visit my friend Olive & Ollie and browse her one-of-a-kind creations! This is one Etsy shop you don't want to miss!

Saturday, March 28, 2009

Tempting Treats From Clineff's Confections

We can't have a Birthday Bash without cake! Clineff's Confections is an Etsy shop. Debbie bakes fresh every day at the bakery (A Piece of Cake Bakery in Locust, NC) and she creates home style goodies just for you! Her bakery is a clean, brick and mortar, licensed and insured bakery, so you can order with confidence! We tried her delicious Pound Cake with Buttercream Frosting! The bundt shaped pound cake was moist and flavorful. The center held a generous 12 ounce cup of sweet buttercream frosting. It was light and fluffy, perfect for spreading on a single slice or the entire cake. The cake arrives complete with a packet of sprinkles. The cake is gift wrapped and boxed with care. My cake arrived in perfect condition and the presentation was so beautiful, I hated to open it for a taste! After tasting it I considered hiding the rest, until I could sneak away and finish devouring it. Warning, it's that good!
Visit Clineff's Confections and browse her selection of cakes, toppers, and baking supplies! Debbie is offering you a special $2 off any cake listing (except the sample packs) in her Etsy Shop via paypal refund! Email her at clineffsconfections@yahoo.com and she will send a code for you to enter in the "notes to seller" section at checkout! These cakes make perfect (and tasty) centerpieces for Easter or Birthdays! To help us celebrate, Clineff's Confections is giving away three (3) Pound Cakes with Buttercream Frosting! I will draw a winner on April 5, April 10, and April 15 (midnight) using random.org. US residents only. To enter, visit Clineff's Confections and tell me what pound cake or loaf flavor you would like to try. You can find out what's offered after clicking on the cake or loaf! Leave a comment with your favorite. Follow me (or let me know you are a follower) in a second comment. Entries accepted for this giveaway through April 15! Good Luck!

Friday, March 27, 2009

Trebimbi Makes Eating Fun!

Looking for the perfect kid-sized dinnerware set for your child's next party? Don't pick up paper plates and plastic cutlery that will get tossed after they are used. Get a set that will be remembered. A set that can be used daily and bring many smiles to your child's precious face for years to come! Make mealtime fun with bright, colorful dinnerware sets from Trebimbi! Rivadossi's ultra-colorful Trebimbi Party Set is perfect for parties or everyday use! The little smiles on the dinnerware are contagious and your children will light up when they see it! Bright, cheery, plastic cutlery connects to the plate and cup. The sets are dishwasher safe. They are perfect for children 2-6!
Visit www.goores.com and use coupon code gbtre at checkout to receive 10% off! To help us celebrate, Trebimbi is giving one lucky reader a TREBIMBI PARTY DINING SET!!! To enter, visit www.goores.com and tell me what you think would be a perfect gift for a child dear to you! Let me know by leaving a comment! Follow me (or let me know you're a follower) and leave a second comment for an additional entry! Open to US residents! Giveaway ends midnight, April 15! Good Luck!

Custom Candy Creations!!!

I'm a fudge fanatic. I can never make just right it so I'm on an endless quest to find the perfect product. My search is over! Chocolate Cheesecake Fudge made by Custom Candy Creations is heavenly. I am not a fan of cheesecake, but this melt in your mouth creation has earned a top spot on my list. Creamy and smooth, with just the right amount of this and that. It's not dry and crumbly like store bought fudge. Whatever magic was poured into this fudge, it has certainly bewitched me. At only $8 a pound, I can afford to splurge!
Custom Candy Creations is an Etsy shop. They specialize in gourmet lollipops and fudge, toffee and more! Their White Chocolate Raspberry Cups look amazing, but as a chocolate lover, I'm keeping an eye on those Truly Sinful Dipped Decadence Oreos! One lucky reader will win a pound of Chocolate Cheesecake Fudge! Visit Custom Candy Creations and tell me what you would like to try! Return to my site and leave a comment sharing your weakness! Follow me and leave a second comment for an extra entry! Current followers, don't forget your second entry! Open to US residents. Giveaway ends April 15, midnight! Good Luck!

Sweet Treats From Sugar And Flour!

Mmmmm. Cookies! Sugar and Flour is a wonderful Etsy shop specializing in creative iced cookies for your special occasions! These shortbread sugar cookies are flavored with touches of vanilla and almond, and decorated with vanilla royal icing. They offer beautifully decorated cookies that are so wonderful to look at, you may have a hard time eating them! I adore the Garden Critters and the Choo-Choo-Trains! They are perfect for children's parties! Visit Sugar and Flour and pick out your favorite design! They are offering one reader a fabulous gift of 6 decorated cookies (valued at $3 each) plus shipping! Leave your favorite design in a comment and follow me (or remind me that you are a follower) in a second comment! US residents only. Giveaway ends April 15 midnight!

Celebrating With Child To Cherish

Birthday Meals are more special with Child to Cherish! Their adorable Happy Birthday Set is a wonderful way to celebrate the big day. This beautifully detailed ceramic set includes a 7 3/4" plate, a 6 1/2" bowl and child's cup with a handle. This heirloom set can be used for years, and it is a wonderful tradition to start! The set is microwave and dishwasher safe, so busy moms don't need to worry with a hand wash. The ceramic is thick and sturdy, so if your child bangs the plate with a fist there is no need to worry! Child to Cherish wraps this gift in elegant tulle. It's available in pink and blue! Visit www.childtocherish.com and use discount code gerb10 to receive a 10% discount off of any order! Child To Cherish is giving a Happy Birthday Set to one of my lucky readers! Visit www.childtocherish.com and tell me your favorite item! Let me know by leaving a comment! Follow me (or let me know you're a follower) for an extra entry and let me know by leaving a second comment! Contest ends midnight April 15. Open to US residents! Good Luck!

Happy Birthday Sam!!!

Sam's big day is finally here! We are celebrating his first birthday! Join us for delicious ham, mac and cheese, (reviews to follow) and lots of cakes, cookies, cupcakes, and other yummy treats! We even have a few sweet treat giveaways to post!

Thursday, March 26, 2009

Relastin Eye Silk

I'm always trying something new. I write up the products that work for me and I share my experiences with anyone who will listen. Recently I was given an opportunity to try a wonderful product for the skin around my eyes. Relastin Eye Silk delivers results and it feels so great, it's a pleasure to add this to my skincare routine. When I first received the product, I pumped a small amount onto my fingertip. The Eye Silk was thick and it looked like a heavy product. I was not sure if I would be happy using it. I gently rubbed the Eye Silk onto my hand. I was so impressed with the way it felt that I immediately dropped everything to cleanse my face and apply this product. I cannot accurately describe how this product feels. It is something you need to experience. It is lightweight and it reminds me a little of my spackle primer. It's velvety smooth and leaves the skin around my eyes very soft. It is gentle on my sensitive, contact wearing eyes. Eye Silk contains Zinc Firming Complex which penetrates your skin's upper layers to reach the dermis, allowing you to produce more elastin, the connective protein that makes skin spring back and become smooth again after you laugh or smile! It gives you visibly firmer skin and it reduces the appearance of crow's feet, fine lines and wrinkles! It also works to diminish the appearance of dark under eye circles and puffiness around your eyes. This is a product that I could see myself using everyday. Does it work? Yes. The area around my eyes is firmer and it is smooth. I'm 33 and I do not have any wrinkles around my eyes, but the skin was not as smooth as it was a few years ago. After using, the area around my eyes is smoother and softer and my makeup looks better!
Relastin makes two other products to keep your face looking beautiful and young. Try the Relastin Ultra Emollient and the Relastin Skin Revitalizer! Right now, you can buy both of these products and receive a free Eye Silk! The Skin Revitalizer exfoliates and reveals smoother and firmer skin while improving the texture of your skin. Ultra Emollient is a super hydrating cream that works hard to give you a radiant and more youthful glow while reducing surface wrinkles and smoothing your skin. Visit www.relastin.com to purchase.


Snug As A Bug With Aden + Anais!

When I first became a mother, there were so many things I didn't know. Being a nurse doesn't prepare you for everything. You have an idea about what to expect, but I spent many weary nights trying to hush an upset baby. I was familiar with swaddling, but no pro. Here I was holding my 6 and a half pound baby trying to get the swaddle just right. I can't remember how many times I wrapped and unwrapped him. It was either too loose or I worried it was too tight. With ordinary blankets, it can be harder than you think!
Aden + Anais has made swaddling easy. The blankets are made from muslin, and the loose weave allows more air to circulate. The air provides a layer of insulation and the natural fibers allow your baby's body temperature to adjust naturally. This eliminates over-heating and ensures warmth and comfort for your little one! The generous blankets are large enough to stay in place and even if your technique is not perfect, your swaddle will stay in place. The muslin wraps are available in two weights. A lightweight wrap is perfect for most seasons and the heavier winter warmth provides additional warmth for cold weather.

Swaddling makes your baby feel more secure and comfortable and it imitates the security of the enclosed surroundings they experienced in the womb. Swaddling also helps your baby sleep on their back and your baby will stay asleep because the wrap will reduce sudden arm and leg movements which can startle your baby awake! Aden + Anais wraps are machine washable, and they get softer and fluffier with each and every wash! I was amazed at the quality. The material is durable and it is perfect for everyday use. When your baby no longer needs to be swaddled, try using one as a nursing cover or an extremely absorbent burp cloth! They make great tummy time blankets too! Visit adenandanais.com and check out their impressive selection of prints! I'm loving the pink and white set, but I may need a little girl of my own to go with it!

Red Wine Body Scrub!

I drink red wine for it's amazing properties. Who am I kidding? I drink it because it helps me unwind after a stressful day! The anti-oxidants are a bonus! When I found out about Abrioné's Red Wine Body Scrub, I knew it had to be good! Abrioné is sharing a centuries old secret! Red wine has long been described as the nectar of youth and long life. Their Red Wine Body Scrub contains powerful anti-oxidants. These anti-oxidants are derived from red wine extract, green tea, cranberry, grape seed oil and vitamin E. They help fight against the damaging effects of the environment and leave your skin luminous and radiant. Menthol and peppermint increase circulation and give you a rosy glow! The srub is not harsh and it feels invigorating. After using this a couple of weeks, my face is smoother and brighter. It has made a difference in the way my skin feels. Visit www.vbcosmetics.com to order and see what red wine can do for you!

Sometimes All You Need Is A Hug!


If you are breastfeeding, you have probably had one of those moments. You know, your breasts are painful and swollen, hot and full. Your nipples are cracked and bleeding, and you think you will die if anything touches them. The warm shower that you think will make it all better batters your tender breasts until you can no longer take it. Now there's a way to turn your shower into a welcoming retreat once again. You need a hug, and not just any hug will do. I'd like to introduce you to the Shower Hug!The Shower Hug provides gentle bust line support for your full and engorged breasts! You can wear it in or out of the shower! The compressive wrap provides a warm and gentle compress to soothe tender breasts and ease engorgement, offering much appreciated protection for sensitive nipples and breasts from direct contact with harsh shower sprays! The Shower Hug also protects tender nipples and areolas from direct contact with irritating soaps or other products. It is perfect for preventing nighttime leaks and you will not have to stuff adhesive padding into your wrap at night. The Shower Hug can be used as a strapless nursing bra. When you need heat or cold pads, the Shower Hug will hold them in place and provide additional relief. The wrap is secured by Velcro. It is adjustable and designed to adapt to your changing body. The Shower Hug is not just for breasts! It doubles as an abdominal binder which is perfect for moms recovering from C-sections! The Shower Hug also provides soothing relief to women recovering from mastectomy, augmentation, breast reduction, reconstruction, and (mastopexy) lifts! Visit belmama & cherub and order your Shower Hug today!

Say Goodbye To Tired Eyes!


I hate the dark circles under my eyes. They make me look tired even when I'm not. After trying many products claiming to be a miracle in a jar that do no more than clog your pores and irritate your skin, I gave up and decided that I better learn to live with my flaws. When I first read about Skinn's HylightenDark Circle & Puffiness Treatment , I was curious. As a big fan of Dimitri James and his fabulous collection, I decided to give it a try. Hylighten is a super concentrated formula that contains maximum levels Haloxyl™, the only patented ingredient scientifically proven to diminish puffiness and under-eye dark circles caused by stress, fatigue - even genetics. It combats the three known elements that cause under-eye dark circles, by slowly breaking them down and allowing them to synthesize within the skin. Hylighten is easy to use. It is dispensed using a roller, and it goes on smoothly and evenly. No more dragging your fingers over your delicate skin, patting layers of thick goo that tends to sit heavily on your face. No more eye watering solutions or burning. I used it four times daily, the maximum dose. It felt really good going on and it hydrated my skin, improving the skin below my eyes. While Skinn's Hylighten did not completely eradicate my circles, they have faded. I use mineral makeup and I no longer apply my mineral concealer. I use a little extra mineral foundation and that seems to work well, and I that is an accomplishment for me! Visit www.skinn.com and say goodbye to your tired eyes for good!

Mix It Up With Haier!

I'm loving this affordable blender from Haier! This stylish countertop blender has a sleek stainless-steel base and powerful, ice-crushing 500-watt motor. The jar is glass, not plastic! The 48-ounce high-capacity jar is large enough to make up generous batches of anything from soups and salsas to thick, rich milkshakes and after hours margaritas! The sturdy jar houses a heavy-duty stainless-steel blade that blends, chops, purees, and more. It easily crushes your ice and perfectly blends your breakfast smoothies without fail! You can choose between two speeds or use the pulse button when you need that extra burst of power! The jar features a large, comfortable handle, a drip-free (mess free) spout, and a push-on cover with a removable measuring cup for adding ingredients while blending. The base is easy to wash by hand and the glass jar fits nicely into a dishwasher. Visit Haier for more information. Right now, you can pick up this amazing blender from amazon.com for under $21!

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

SOS For Your Hair!

I use tons of conditioner. I can't help it. I like to shampoo and rinse, then slather on a handful of rich creamy conditioner. It feels so good, but it weighs me down. But I thought it was worth it because my hair was always soft as silk. I never considered a leave in conditioner. I thought my hair would be a mess of tangles if I did. I also thought it would leave my hair oily and limp. I figured if a product was not thick and rich, surely it would not give the same, or better results. Recently I had the pleasure of trying a great product from J Life! S.O.S. Leave in Conditioner has proved me wrong and I am changing my ways. I shampoo as usual and then generously spray this sweet smelling product in my hair. I work it through with my fingers and then I am able t o comb my hair without running into any snags! My hair is smooth and soft and protected against harmful UV rays. It has a healthy bounce and it feels so much lighter! J Life offers a full line of hair care. If you haven't heard of them, you should definitely check them out. Visit www.jlifehaircare.com to purchase! S.O.S. Leave In Conditioner is small enough to take to the pool or beach, and it will keep your windblown locks hydrated and smooth. It's great for kids too!

Baby Cottage Gifts. Luxury You Can Afford!

I love to find unique products at great prices. I guess most people do! I found one shop that's full of wonderful items and they even have an under $20 page for deal seekers like me! Baby Cottage Gifts is the perfect place to shop if you are on a budget, but you don't want anyone to know! Some of my favorites are the gorgeous Pink Fairy Tutu Dress! There is something magical in this creation and I think any little girl would feel like a princess wearing it. Layers and layers of fluffy tulle with a coordinating ribbon halter tie and the bunching of flowers make this dress picture perfect. Don't forget the wings and matching headband!
Their gorgeous collection of hats really top things off! The Fuchsia Beanie with Creamy Pink Rose Bling Clip will fit little girls from 1-10. The adorable flower is attached to a hair clip so you can easily remove it and use it with other hats, headbands, or as a clip in your little one’s hair! They are handcrafted and perfect for year round use!
How about a diaper cake for a shower? I found this Asian Flair Classy Baby Diaper Cake. It's not the usual, pastels and bows. This sophisticated cake is the perfect centerpiece or gift for your next baby inspired event! Everyone will ooh and ahh when they see this personalized cake. The nontraditional decor is perfect if you want something unique!

Baby Cottage Gifts also has a wonderful selection of appliqued onesies and gowns. My favorite is the 100% combed cotton Blue Zoo Elephant Infant Sleepsack/Gown! This precious little gown is gender neutral and fits newborns through 3 months. The appliques are fused onto the layette gowns and then tightly zig-zag stitched to reduce fraying of edges. They are durable and machine washable. Visit www.babycottagegifts.com to purchase, and enter BABYLOVE at checkout for an extra 15% off!

Baby Cottage Gifts is giving away a Blue Zoo Elephant Infant Sleepsack/Gown to one lucky reader! Please visit their site and let me know your favorite item! Come back and leave a comment. Follow me and leave another comment for an extra entry. If you are a follower, don't forget to comment again and let me know! US residents only. Contest ends April 10, 2009!

Monday, March 23, 2009

We're Going Uptown! Or Is It Midtown?

My husband was born and raised in New York. He is very proud of it too! When I saw these adorable onesies and shoes, I was thrilled! I'll never forget my first taxi adventure. My little one laughed with glee as he was tossed around in the back seat. It's a good thing he was between his white knuckled mommy and his "I've done this before" daddy. I quickly got over that roller coaster without hills ride and I am left with memories of our first great family adventure! Seeing Bibi & Mimi's New Yorker onesies and shoes brought back those memories. Playful designs in 100% soft cotton are perfect for giving. They arrive in an adorable gift box! Organic onesies are also available! You cannot complete the look without matching shoes! There adorable, soft and supple leather shoes coordinate beautifully with their onesies! Suede soles keep your little one from slipping and they are perfect for indoor and some outdoor wear! If city themes are not for you, pick from a variety of other styles! I'm loving their Dinosaur and Frog shoes!
Visit Bibi & Mimi's shop and find an assortment of great products! Pick up a few pairs of socks! They offer a wonderful variety for little girls and boys! I'm also a big fan of their Diaper Bag Doties! The ergonomically shaped shoulder strap looks comfortable and the light weight, water and stain resistant fabric means I'll have less to worry about! We all know what a leaky bottle can do!
If you are looking for big city style, visit www.bibiandmimi.com and check out their products You'll love their designs and prices too! Their quality made products are durable and perfect for active babies and toddlers!

Spa Time Baby!



My baby is almost one. He is adventurous and sometimes mischievous. Especially when it comes to bath time! He gets to splish and splash, soaking everything (and everyone) in sight! We love bath time and he has so much fun! But it's a lot of work too! I end up washing more clothes because bathing him means one more wardrobe change for me.
After receiving one of the greatest products ever, I am doing less laundry and wringing out fewer shirts. I'm laughing more and allowing my little boy to play longer and have more fun in the tub! Thank you Spa Time Baby! I received their Ducky Bubbles CozyCare Cape and tried it out immediately. Slipping the cape over my head, I was impressed by the quality of the 100% cotton terry cloth fabric. It is soft and snuggly, and it is the perfect size. The light blue cape is trimmed in a cute little duck print. It features a waterproof panel that keeps you dry. I placed my baby in the tub, which fits over my sink. I braced myself and prepared for my usual soaking. If you are wondering how I get so wet from a countertop bath, well, I refill it constantly. I'm a glutton for punishment. Sam played happily, slinging copious amounts of water and suds all over the place, not pleased until he had covered every surface! After his bath, I picked him up and placed him against my cape. I wrapped the sides around him and dried him thoroughly as we walked to the nursery. As soon as I placed him on the changing table, he was dry! No extra bath towel was needed!
Spa Time Baby offers other great products too! Their CozyCare mats are perfect for diaper rashes. Anytime you need to put your baby down sans diaper, this mat will come in handy! It's great for diaper changes and massages too. CozyCare Caps are perfect for keeping your baby's head warm during and after the bath. It stays in place, and makes bath time more comfortable! Spa Time Baby offers wonderful gift sets. Get yours monogrammed for a personal touch!Everything arrives beautifully wrapped in a sheer organza pouch, ready for giving! Visit spatimebaby.com and win the battle of the bath! Enter code Cozy at checkout to receive 25% off your order!
Spa Time Baby is offering one of my lucky readers a CozyCare Cape! To enter, visit spatimebaby.com and pick out your favorite designer print! Return to my site and let me know your favorite by leaving a comment! Follow me for an extra entry! Current followers, leave a second comment to let me know you follow! Contest ends midnight April 10. Open to US residents. Good luck!