That Special Something

I love fabric, especially prints and patterns that are feminine and soft. Unfortunately, I can't do anything with fabric, but I can certainly appreciate the beauty of it. Baby Mae Boutique takes gorgeous fabric and transforms it into usable pieces of art for your baby! Baby Mae Boutique has a knack for putting it all together. She does it so well! Simple designs, sweet results. The blanket I received was made with love and care. The quality of the finished product is obvious. Great care was taken to ensure that all the stitches and seams were just right!

Each creation is elegant and luxurious. I kept hoping to stumble upon the women's section or home products, eager to find a plush robe or large throw to wrap around my body and escape from my worries. It didn't happen,and that is my only complaint! But babies everywhere can rejoice! Baby Mae Boutique offers blankets and bibs, burp cloths and more! Each quite fashionable and very well made! Even the tag is adorable!

I was sent a very charming stroller blanket for review. It was neatly bundled and tied with a coordinating ribbon, ready to give to one lucky couple! The floral fabric was gorgeous and the soft minky material seemed softer than others I've had the pleasure of reviewing. Maybe it's my imagination, or maybe it really is softer. I can't say for sure, but I do know that I could wrap myself in it and feel like a princess! If only it was bigger! Hint hint! Baby Mae Boutique has so many things fit for princesses much smaller, and I was pleased to see the variety of products fit for a little prince! Sweet nautical designs that I would have loved getting my hands on when my kids were younger. If you want something truly special, visit Baby Mae Boutique!
To Disclose: I was sent a stroller blanket in order to complete this review. No monetary compensation received and honest opinions are given!

Get Your Toddlers Moving With Sukey's Circle!

When I was contacted about reviewing Sukey's Circle!, I was really hesitant. Logan seemed to be too old for it and Sam rarely sits still long enough to watch anything. Chances were slim that this would work out favorably. Still, it was worth the shot. The television doesn't babysit my kids, but every now and then, a break (for me!) would be nice! When the DVD arrived, I popped it in the player and turned it on. I sat on the couch and waited. It wasn't long before an unexpected crowd gathered. The unexpected being my children. While I would still argue that Logan is a bit old for this, he seemed very intent on watching. Sam was drawn in by the playful songs and lovable characters!  Best of all, the music and characters didn't get on my nerves like they do in some other children's videos! Logan and Sam really got into this great interactive DVD. I found it fun and pretty entertaining! It's a double episode and it features interactive music, movement play and song with Sukey Molloy and her Sunshine Family of Friends.

Sukey shares movement themes from every day life in, I Like to Move My Body, and Tick Tock Gets Dressed, during which she shares different movement experiences for viewers to try. Sukey invites children to participate with Sunny and Tick Tock as they play, move and sing!
Episodes include:
These Are My Eyes
Song animation with lyrical attention to parts of the body
Tick Tock Rhythmic song animation with rocking, jumping, hopping and clapping
I Like to Move My Body
Creative live action sequences for movement fun
Tick Tock Gets Dressed
Sukey dresses Tick Tock in hat and boots to go out and play

After more than a month of viewing, my children are still very interested in this great DVD! Logan loves getting Sam involved and he even encourages him to play along! It hasn't retired to the bottom of the stack and I don't see that happening any time soon! If your (very) active children are into great songs and having fun, check out Sukey's Circle!

To Disclose: I was sent this DVD in order to complete this review. No monetary compensation received and honest opinions were given!

Taking Cupcakes To A Baby Shower!

The next time you open your mailbox and pull out a shower invitation, here's what you need to do. Skip the registries and long lines, visit BabyDeary on Etsy, and then sit back and relax. She will help you give the most creatively wrapped gift that's actually needed! She can take regular everyday items and turn them into the talk of the shower!

Who doesn't like cupcakes? Especially zero calorie cupcakes? These adorable washcloths are wrapped with sweet little onesies and topped with a crocheted strawberry or flower pin. Each cupcake sits in a liner and everything is packaged in a bakery box. The box is adorned with charming little stickers and tags!

When I received my bakery box, I did not want to open it! It is a special gift for a very special couple. Looking at the box, I knew if BabyDeary put this much into the outside, well, the inside would be better! Very carefully I opened it. I had to, especially since I was writing about it! Each little "cupcake" was tucked securely in place and tissue paper made sure there would be no shifting or accidents in transit. It's nice that I didn't have to worry about anyone opening a box of "cupcakes" and finding a total disaster!

Everything was perfect. The couple will have exactly what they need for their new baby, and the packaging will  be remembered after all the others are forgotten. And don't worry. There are cupcakes for boys and gender-neutral too! Visit BabyDeary on Etsy and be prepared to indulge. These sweet treats are reasonably priced and you can't go wrong with this gift! For an added bonus, if you spend $35 before shipping, you can get a darling onesie featuring "BabyDeary.com"  for only 25 cents! The onesie is white with a pink and black design. It's really soft and I think it would be really comfortable. For an extra quarter, how can you resist?

To Disclose: I received this gift for a special couple in return for this mention. No monetary compensation received and honest opinions were given.

A Little 4th Of July Inspiration!

July 4th. Backyard BBQ's and family and friends. Liven things up with Meals.com! It's an easy to use online recipe source. They have wonderful recipes for any gathering and you can even find recipes by searching specific ingredients! I searched for Cherry Raisinets and found a few recipes to enjoy for the big celebration!  You will find nutritional information and you can print recipes on recipe or index cards or full size pages!

Dark Chocolate Cherry Brownies

(pictured above)

Estimated Times

Preparation Time: 15 mins

Cooking Time: 15 mins

Cooling Time: 20 mins cooling

Servings: 24

Ingredients

24 per cupcake liners

1 (18.3 to 20 ounces) chocolate brownie mix*

1 package (4 ounces) Cherry NESTLÉ RAISINETS Dark Chocolate-Covered Dried Cherries, coarsely chopped

Directions

PREHEAT oven to 350° F. Place liners in muffin cups.

PREPARE brownie mix batter according to box directions; stir in Dark Chocolate Cherry Raisinets after all ingredients are combined. Fill prepared muffin cups 1/2 full with batter.

BAKE for 15 to 18 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out slightly sticky. Cool completely in pan on wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar.

Cook’s Tip: For healthier brownies, substitute equal amount of LIBBY’S 100% Pure Pumpkin for oil in brownie mix.

* For a more intensely flavored brownie, substitute merlot wine for water called for in brownie mix.  

Get more great recipes at Meals.com like the Dark Cherry Raisinet Pull Apart Bread pictured above! It's not traditional 4th of July fare, but why not get creative and try something a little different!

To Disclose: I have a rprevious elationship with Nestle and Cherry Raisinets. I was under no obligation to write this post. No monetary or product compensation received.

Munchkin's Arm & Hammer Diaper Pail!

I hated my old diaper pail. When I was given the opportunity to try out two new diaper pails, well I was all over that! I used the Diaper Genie II Elite for the first week and then used the Munchkin's new Diaper Pail for a week. Then I switched back o the Diaper Genie. Let me begin by telling you more about Munchkin's Arm & Hammer Diaper Pail! The self-sealing system seals the bag and locks odors away. The Arm & Hammer® baking soda cartridge safely absorbs odors and dispenses natural baking soda each time the lid is closed. The cartridge has to be refilled, which was a messy process for me, but that was mostly my fault! A full cartridge lasts over 90 days. I love the fact that you don't have to buy expensive replacement cartridges full of baking soda! The Arm & Hammer Diaper Pail is smaller, so if you are trying to make the most of your space, consider this pail. Bag replacement is also easy. I did not like having to touch the lid with my hands whenever I wanted to toss a dirty diaper. A hands free approach would have been much easier, not to mention, cleaner! I did not feel that this diaper pail was as good at controlling odors. I'd find myself emptying it more, and those refill bags aren't cheap. Each bag holds up to 25 diapers. While this wasn't my ideal diaper pail, I would consider it if space were an issue.  
To Disclose: I am a member of the Mom Central community and I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central, sponsored by Diaper Genie, and received a free Diaper Genie diaper pail and a free Munchkin Arm & Hammer diaper pail to facilitate my review.

Natural Wonders

Day 1

I've been reviewing arrangements from Teleflora for several months now. Each time I pick out an arrangement, I very anxiously await it's arrival. This month, I was really eager! I picked out something a little different. Teleflora's Natural Wonders Flowers. Everything is in gorgeous varying shades of green!

Day 1

I was drawn to this arrangement because I love succulents. I thought the arrangement was rather interesting and it wasn't something I would normally order. It lacks the bright cheery colors, pastels, and delicate blossoms. Instead, soothing greens helped keep me cool and calm, despite Sam entering his terrible twos again!

Day 2

In this arrangement, you can witness the beauty and bounty of nature come to life! This earthy bouquet features fresh flowers in forest green. They are artfully arranged in a silky brown satin vase accented with succulents! I only wish my arrangement had more!

Day 2

A refreshing mix of flowers including green carnations, echeveria succulents, roses and green chrysanthemums are accented with bupleurum and eucalyptus. I love the brown satin ceramic cylinder vase.
It's a wonderful keepsake and I know I will be using it again.

Day 2

My arrangement was delivered by Hadden's Flowers and Gifts. I didn't have to worry about a box of flowers being dropped off and sitting on my front porch in the blistering heat. I can only imagine what that would do to an arrangement! My arrangement was delivered with a smile! The day I received my arrangement was a little gloomy. There wasn't a lot of natural light. The next morning when I walked through my living room, the first thing I noticed was the brilliance of my Natural Wonders Flowers!

Day 2

All the greens seemed filled with life. Everything was vibrant and beautiful! A stark comparison against the outdoor flowers where everything was turning brown from the harsh sun. While I do miss the bright and cheery colors of my past arrangement, this was a very nice change. This arrangement seems to be lasting longer too, which is always a nice bonus! As far as fragrance, don't expect too much. I had to lean over the roses and eucalyptus in order to smell them. It's there, it's just very subtle!

Day 3

So far, my roses are still perfect! They are pretty tightly wound days after receiving my bouquet! The base of each rose is light green and the edges are a few shades brighter! The carnations are similar! They really stand out. Something I didn't expect in an all green arrangement! Usually, carnations are one of my least favorite flowers. These carnations are really spectacular, and I wouldn't mind seeing them again in another arrangement. The berries compliment the blooms well, and so far, I haven't noticed any on the table. I hate cleaning up after an arrangement. Arrangements should be enjoyed, not create more work!

Day 3

I'm so happy that I chose Teleflora's Natural Wonders Flowers. Next month, I think I'll go with more color, but for now, I'm happy that I went green!
To Disclose: I have a long term relationship with Teleflora. This arrangement was received in order to complete this review. No monetary compensation received and honest opinions were given.

Day 3 

More Than Beautiful Bows!

I love Etsy. I find a lot of inspiration when I browse their artistic community. Recently, I stumbled into a great shop filled with lots of bling, colorful ribbons, and gorgeous tulle! It wasn't the sparkles that caught my eye, it was the designs! Brynn's Beautiful Bows. Saying they're beautiful, now that's an understatement!  Jenn is a master with ribbon and tulle, transforming the simplest strips of various materials into creative works of art. She has a great imagination and it shines in her work! 

While I loved her beautiful bows, I equally admired her other hair accessories. She has great hair clips and headbands! This is where her talent really shines through! I mean, check out her clips! The colors are vibrant and the designs are well executed. I can tell that Jenn really puts a lot of time and effort into her work. The details are amazing! Little girls today are fortunate that they can grow up with Brynn's Beautiful Bows! I wasn't that lucky!

Want more? I know I do! She has the most adorable tutus! Jenn sent a tutu and matching headband for my review. The headband featured a great flower with a rhinestone center. It sparkled and shined and basically, filled any little girl's wish list. It exceeded my expectations too! The tutu was well made and it didn't slip and slide and twist when it wasn't supposed to. The colors were a gorgeous mix and they reminded me of a fruity dessert! Check out her site and find that perfect tutu for your little one. They'll help make those first portraits even more special! I was really surprised to find tutus for Zhu Zhu Pets and dogs! Zhu Zhu Pets are all the rage and who wouldn't want to dress them up in a tutu of their own!

Visit Brynn's Beautiful Bows on Etsy. All of your purchases will arrive quickly, already wrapped and ready to give. Follow her blog and find her on facebook! Here's some advice. Look her up. She's worth it! I can't wait to see what she comes out with next. Hey Jenn...Don't make us wait too long!
To Disclose: I was sent a tutu and matching headband in order to complete this review. No monetary compensation received and my honest opinions are given.

For All The Dads

My daddy rocks! And I have a tee to prove it. Unfortunately, it's not my size! High 5 Tees has some of the coolest little (and big!) tees around. I couldn't resist the "My Daddy Rocks" tee! The design is printed on a bright red, 100% cotton tee, and it features an awesome little drumset. The tee holds it's color well, wash after wash. The image is holding up well without any peeling or cracking. High 5 Tees has the best T Shirts for music lovers, Texas lovers, funny ladies Nightshirts from Emerson Street, cover ups featuring the University of Texas, Texas A&M, The University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State, hard to find girls Volleyball and Lacrosse shirts. They also have the cutest tees for infants and toddlers. Their shirts are available to both retail customers by the piece at www.high5tees.com/ and to wholesale customers at www.tusashirts.com/. Check them out! These make great gifts for rockstar dads!
To Disclose: I was sent a tee in order to complete this review. No monetary compensation received and honest opinions given.

Billy Joel...For Babies

Billy Joel is one of our favorite artists. Logan, my oldest, knows the words to many of his songs. When Sam was younger, and crankier, we often found that some of his music would soothe him. It was great for car rides, when a meltdown was inevitable. When I found out about Baby Blanket Music, and their Baby Billy Joel CD, I had to have it. I was curious and I wanted to know if they captured any of the heart and soul of Joel's music. I wasn't let down. While I miss the lyrics, the soothing arrangements are easily identifiable and even Logan finds himself humming along. Baby Blanket Music turned Billy Joel's very passionate music into a low burning fire, perfect for helping little ones settle down. If you are not a big fan of Billy Joel (I can't imagine why) be sure to check out their CDs from other artists. You can even listen to tracks on their website!
To Disclose: I was sent a review copy in order to complete this review. No monetary compensation received and honest opinions given.

A Giveaway From Bibi & Mimi!!!

Saturday, I told you all about Bibi & Mimi! They have a great selection of coordinating onesies, socks, soft leather shoes, and more. Now they know how to spoil a baby! (And a mom!) You can read my review here! I am excited to announce a wonderful giveaway from Bibi & Mimi. You can win a sweet little onesie for your little one! To enter, visit their site and tell me your favorite design! It will be hard, but I know you can do it!
Bonus entries:
Follow me on google, networked blogs, twitter, and/or facebook for an extra entry. See links on sidebar!
Like Bibi & Mimi on facebook for an extra 3 entries! Follow them on Twitter for three more entries!
Spread the news about this giveaway by blogging, adding giveaway to linky, or posting to twitter/facebook for another three entries! Spread the word!
Giveaway ends midnight, June 25, 2010. US residents only! Good Luck!
To Disclose: Bibi & Mimi provided the onesie for this giveaway. They will ship to winner at end of contest. No monetary compensation received for this post.

Baby On Safari

Take your baby on Safari with Gordonsbury! Luxury crib bedding and nursery furniture that will help you fullfill your nursery dreams! What expectant mom doesn't want things just right for their new arrival? If you can afford to splurge, this is the way to go. But even if you don't think you want to invest this much, consider the value. This is an heirloom quality set that will stand the test of time. A classic design that will be just as endearing for the next generation. Let me tell you a little about On Safari, Gordonsbury's most popular set!

The On Safari Gordonsbury design features favorite African animals in delightful scenes where monkeys, giraffes, elephants and lions play. Join the African animals on their safari outings among the trees. Hand embroidered in Zimbabwe by The Gordonsbury Company.

To order, simply select a bedding set and add your preferred accessories, or just select the items you wish to add to your collection.

The FOUR PIECE Bedding Set includes bumpers, dust ruffle, fitted sheet and quilt. FREE Stroller Size Cotton Cable Blanket and Shipping included.
The THREE PIECE Bedding Set includes bumpers, dust ruffle and fitted sheet. FREE Boudoir Pillowcase and Shipping included.

The set I received featured the most exquisite embroidery and the threads are soft as silk. The cotton is soft and luxurious next to baby's skin. I love the timeless design and the attention to details. If you are looking for that perfect set, visit Gordonsbury!

To Disclose: I was sent a nursery set from Gordonsbury in order to complete my review. My set differed in design, but I have been assured that the quality is the same. Honest opinions are given and no monetary compensation received.

A Tale Of Two Diaper Pails

If you are expecting or already have a little one at home, chances are you've heard about Diaper Genie. It was always one of the more popular diaper pails and I've seen it listed in a lot of baby registries. You'll be happy to know that they've improved! The Diaper Genie II Elite Disposal System is a mess free system that really fits the needs of most parents. The patent pending double-locked pail design and multi-layer refill seals in odor and germs. I did notice some odor, but only when I opened it and stood over it. When it's closed, I don't smell anything! I love that diapers only touch refill film, not the pail, so no messy residue is left behind. That means my diaper pail stays pretty clean. With my old diaper pail, I had to take it outside at least once a week and wash it out. I also had to wipe it down every day. The Playtex Diaper Genie II Elite Disposal  System has really minimized my time spent cleaning. I love it! I also love the foot pedal design, which allows for easy, hands-free opening. It's ergonomic, so there's no need to bend down! The Diaper Genie II Elite is made in the USA. Each refill seals 270 Newborn diapers, 233 #1 diapers, 192 #2 diapers, 176 #3 diapers, 144 #4 diapers and 105 #5 diapers. The pail holds up to 30 small diapers before it needs to be emptied. The Diaper Genie II Elite makes it easy to fight germs in the nursery! Checkout these great tips! This week, I've switched to the Munchkin Arm & Hammer Diaper Pail. So far so good! Check back to find out more!
To Disclose: "I am a member of the Mom Central community and I wrote this review while participating in a Test Drive campaign by Mom Central, sponsored by Diaper Genie, and received a free Diaper Genie diaper pail and a free Munchkin Arm & Hammer diaper pail to facilitate my review."

Baby Shower Gift Ideas- Bibi & Mimi!

I'm kicking off my Baby Series with this awesome onesie from Bibi & Mimi! Soft white cotton, adorable frog design. I love everything about it! It's a great gender neutral onesie that would make the perfect baby shower gift! This onesie is packaged in a cute gift box with a ribbon handle.  It features the design, "RIBBIT" means "I am adorable" in frog and it's irresitible! This onesie washes well and maintains it's size and shape. The design still looks great after several washes!

Of course, you can't forget about the baby shoes! These are handcrafted leather shoes with suede soles and they are packaged in an adorable keepsake bag. Sam had a pair of shoes from Bibi & Mimi, and they were so soft and easy to put on. They also stayed on! Be sure to pick up a pair of adorable matching socks. If you're going to cover those tiny little toes, cover them with these! Bibi & Mimi has several designs and accessories that are sure to make any mother-to-be melt! And if you are looking to be the baby shower guest with the best, here you go!
To Disclose: I was sent a onesie in order to complete this review. No monetary compensation received and honest opinions were given. 

Dinner With SeaPak!

I love going to the beach, soaking up the sun, and hitting a great seafood restaurant before turning in for the night. The seafood is fresh, and there's nothing better than fresh seafood! Unfortunately, I can't go to the beach as often as I'd like, so I can get the next best thing. SeaPak frozen seafood. It's frozen seafood perfectly seasoned and ready to fry or pop in the oven. My family loves the variety of products. The products are affordable and I can create a quick and delicious meals in minutes! I was sent a coupon for a free product. I purchased a package of Butterfly Shrimp. The shrimp were large, and they were nice and crisp when I heated them in my oven. We all loved them! I have purchased SeaPak products many times before and I have always been impressed with the quality. I'll continue to purchase SeaPak products too! If I can't get to the coast, I can always open my freezer and have a great coastal inspired meal that my family will enjoy!
To Disclose: I was sent a voucher/coupon in order to try this product. No monetary compensation received and my honest opinions were given.

Father's Day Feast, Fit For A King!

Texans like to boast that things are bigger and better in Texas. They have a lot of pride in their state. And they should. Texas is home to Cooper's BBQ, and after trying one of their Big Chops, I have to agree. It's bigger and better than any pork chop I've tasted. Being from the south, I grew up on BBQ. Most of it was slathered in sauce, but that's not what BBQ is about. Real BBQ has been blessed by the grill, wood smoke and hot coals transforming a cut of meat into something truly extraordinary. I recently had a memorable experience with Cooper's BBQ and I didn't have to leave home. Texas came to me! I received The Texas Spread, and you'll be hearing all about it over the next couple of weeks! This first post will introduce you to The Big Chop. It's a center cut pork chop about 2" thick, cooked over mesquite coals to perfection. When I first opened the package, I thought it looked like a massive steak. The color was beautiful! I microwaved it according to the directions. I know what you're thinking. Microwave? It should be a sin. But trust them. It works. This pork chop was moist and delicious! This is one hefty portion. Two could easily make a meal out of one chop! The smokey flavor is intense! The pork next to the bone deserves it's own mention. It is more moist and flavorful, and it was unexpected! It literally melts in your mouth! At under $12 each, this is quite affordable. This would be a very special Father's Day or 4th of July treat! Check out Cooper's BBQ. Dine in or order online. Either way, your taste buds will never be the same!
To Disclose: Cooper's BBQ sent products for my review. No monetary compensation received. Honest opinions given!

How Do You Relax After An Evening With Whine? With More Wine Of Course! Cupcake Vineyard!

I usually keep a few bottles of wine on hand. I prefer rich, sultry reds, but I am open to trying new flavors. When Cupcake Vinyard sent me three bottles of wine to try, I decided to pop open a beautiful Chardonnay for my first review. You'll hear about the others in another post! Before I get into my thoughts, let me tell you what to expect.
Here's the profile:
Vintage: 2009

Wine Type: White Wine
Varietal: Chardonnay
Appellation: Central Coast
Harvest Date: September - October 2007
PH: 3.76
Residual Sugar: .4 g
Alcohol %: 13.50%

Tasting Notes:

"Cupcake Chardonnay was crafted to emphasize the Central Coast’s creamy and structured Chardonnay character. It starts off with a touch of apple, a hint of tropical fruits and is complimented by a balance of vanilla and spice. We used malolactic fermentation with aging in small barrels to provide a rich mid palate that develops into a long, smooth, satisfying finish. This wine pairs well with crab cakes, seared Ahi tuna on waffle crackers or fresh-baked French bread and cheese."

This is an award winning wine!!!
SILVER- 2010 Pacific Rim Wine Competition, Vintage '07
SILVER- 2010 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, Vintage '08
SILVER- 2010 Florida State Fair Wine Competition, Vintage '08
SILVER- 2010 Riverside International Wine Competition, Vintage '08
SILVER- 2010 Best of the Bay Wine Competition, Vintage '08

Now, my opinion!
I poured my first glass and admired the warm, golden color. I leaned down over the bowl of my glass and inhaled deeply. While I am not able to distinguish between the scents, I did pick up on the apple and spices. I took a small sip. Wow! I thought it would be a simple wine, but flavors developed and transformed, giving this wine so much depth. I loved the smoothness of the wine and it left a pleasant fruity taste in my mouth. My palate isn't too refined, but I know a good wine when I taste it.  For $12 a bottle, I expected a decent bottle of wine, but I was pleasantly surprised with this one. It tasted much richer and much more expensive. My husband, also a red wine lover, agreed. This is a winner and we will purchase this Chardonnay again! On a recent trip to two different grocery stores (Publix and Winn Dixie) I was happy to see these wines stocked on the shelf! I would pick this up to go with a nice dinner or as a hostess gift for a friend throwing a special dinner party. The label is beautiful, but the wine inside is simply divine! Stay tuned for other reviews from Cupcake Vinyard!

To Disclose: This post was written for readers age 21 and older. I was sent three bottles of wine to review. These reviews will be posted seperately. No monetary compensation received for this post and honest opinions were given.