2 more Winners!

First up we have the winner of the $100 GC to Tea Collection!

Winning number is:  

Winning commenter is: 

August 17, 2010 3:08 AM 92

Cindy

I follow via Friend Connect.

Next up is the Master Lock giveaway!

Winning number is:

Winning commenter is:

August 26, 2010 8:03 AM 53

clynsg

Follower via GFC #1
cgclynsg0 @ gmail dot com

Congrats to both winners!  And thanks to everyone who entered! 

Wordless Wednesday: Welcome to My Hometown!

Since I am the Queen of multi-tasking I thought what better way to get in another review for the Kodak EasyShare M580 camera.  All of the shots below were taken with the M580 and are of some of the amazing scenery around Southern Ohio and Northern Kentucky.

I love this photo.  I shot it using the M580 panoramic feature.  This is actually the flood wall that separates Maysville from the river and flooding.  The murals were painted several years ago and depict scenes of Maysville’s history!

 

This is another favorite,. again shot with the M580.  Rosemary Clooney (she starred in White Christmas with Bing Crosby) is originally from Maysville so she is adored here.  This mural depicts the facade of the Russell Theater which to this day is being restored thanks to Rosemary’s efforts!  Oh and just so you know, YES she was George Clooney’s aunt…he came to Maysville (and brought along co-star Renee Zellweger) to premiere his film Leatherheads in 2008…we were there freezing our butts off to catch a glimpse and we did…it was pretty cool!

The view from the boat ramp at our local park.

Same vantage point as above just magnified thanks to the amazing zoom of the M580!

Last but not least the view of the Ohio River I see daily and the bridge I cross daily to leave Ohio and go into Kentucky…pretty neat that I go from one state to the next nearly every day huh?

Summer Must-Haves: OFF Clip-On Mosquito Repellent {Review}

As I’ve mentioned before mosquitoes are a huge issue where we live.  After 4 p.m. it’s a battle just to sit outside with the kids and enjoy the sun.  Between constantly reapplying bug repellent (which never seems to work) and swatting away the mosquitoes who are not afraid of the bug repellent, it’s just easier to stay inside…which we hate to do.  And then I discovered the OFF clip on bug repellent device and I became public enemy number 1 as far as the mosquitoes were concerned. 
OFF is a product that I buy and use religiously in the summer, with mosquitoes as bad as they are around here we have no choice but to make sure our children are protected.  I normally buy and use the OFF spray or wipes for the babies, but I don’t always think about myself so needless to say, I often get ravaged by mosquitoes.  Another problem I come across using sprays and wipes is that while they are affective for a while after application, it sometimes becomes necessary to reapply.  When I first received my OFF Clip-On Mosquito repellent I was excited to try it out, and it didn’t take long before I had the chance to do so.  Before I get into what I thought about the OFF Clip-On Repellent here is some great information about the product from the website:
Enjoy the protection of OFF!® Clip-On™ repellent when:

• Relaxing in your backyard
• Lounging at the beach
• Gardening
• Camping
• Attending sporting events
• Enjoying the park

Effective Protection
Within minutes, OFF!® Clip-On™ repellent provides personal protection from mosquitoes. If you move, allow a few minutes for the unit to rebuild its protection. Protects against mosquitoes that may carry West Nile Virus
No Skin Application
Unlike ordinary personal repellents, OFF!® Clip-On™ repellent provides mosquito protection without putting anything on your skin.
Fan Powered
The quiet, battery-powered fan circulates repellent all around you. Batteries are included.
Odorless
OFF!® Clip-On™ repellent uses an active ingredient with no scent.
Refillable
Each refill provides up to 12 hours of head-to-toe protection. One refill is included with the unit. OFF!® Clip-On™ repellent refills are sold separately and contain 2 repellent disks (for a total of 24 hours of mosquito protection).
Easy to Use - Clip it on or set it next to you
When clipped to your clothing or just laid on a flat surface nearby, this compact device provides head-to-toe protection.
As I mentioned above it didn’t take long for me to have the opportunity to use the Clip-On repellent, the same night I received it I joined my kids in the front yard for a little after dinner playtime.  Something I want to mention (that should sound like common sense, unless you’re me and don’t do it) is to read the directions, I was wearing the Clip-On for a good half hour before I realized that it wasn’t even turned on…so read the directions!  I also want to point out how easy it is to get the unit turned on and working.  Once I got the unit working (my unit was defective and seemed to stop and go of its own will) it was very effective in keeping the mosquitoes at bay.  Since the OFF Clip-On Repellent is not recommended for use on children under 3 I couldn’t use it on the babies, but several times the older kids used it and noticed a significant improvement on the amount of mosquitoes they saw while playing outside.  I did like the fact that you could sit the clip-on repellent unit on a table or bench and still effectively keep mosquitoes from invading your space and ruining your fun!  Aside from the convenience aspect the OFF clip-on repellent is portable—you can take it on a family picnic, wear it at your Labor Day BBQ, clip it on and go for a walk, affordable—refills are very affordable, and effective!
Overall I would say that the OFF Clip-On Mosquito Repellent unit is a good buy! 

Buy it!

You can purchase the OFF Clip-On mosquito repellent at most major retailers!

30 Days of Truth Days 12 & 13

Yes, I’m still doing the 30 Days of Truth…I’ve just been crazy busy and I can’t seem to find time to sit down and write a meaningful post…so I waited to do 2 together again!  We’re on Days 12 and 13. 
Question for Day 12 is:  Something you never get compliments on.
My answer to this question may not surprise some of you, especially  those who know me IRL.  Something I never get compliments on is my patience.  I am probably the most impatient person I know.  I can’t stand to wait in line at the grocery store, I hate getting stuck in traffic (and being stuck behind a tractor is the worst—yes I live in BFE tractors are an every day occurrence), and I detest being put on hold on the phone.  Learning to be more patient is something that I definitely need to work on.
And if we are talking about the other kind of compliments I have an answer to that too, my fingernails.  I bite my nails (and have for years) and the always look horrible.  I do occasionally grow them out and they are beautiful when I do, but most of the time they are just nasty looking.
Question for Day 13 is: A band or artist that has gotten you through some tough ass days. (write a letter.)
Now I know that I am supposed to write a letter for this one, but dinner is on the stove, 2 of the kids are arguing about something or other, and 2 kids are destroying my kitchen…so a letter is not going to happen right now.
So the band or artist who has gotten me through some hard ass times is Tupac.  Yes, I know some of you may be like wtf, but just hear me out.  Tupac was the biggest rapper out there when I was in my teens—I had just gotten his album All Eyez on Me (yes, I lied my ass off for that CD…my mom would have killed me if she had listened to some of those songs) and listened to it all the time.  I got it around the time my grandmother was really starting to go down hill, after she died I would sit in my room and listen to “Life Goes On” in my head phones over and over.  While the content of the song had nothing to do with my situation, it was sort of like an anthem for anyone who had lost someone they loved dearly.  Looking back I realize that song really helped me to let out my anger, sadness, and frustration at the situation.  To this day I get teary listening to the song!

Labor Day Picnic Must Haves Ice Orb {Love this}

It’s almost too sad to even say, but summer is almost over.  I know, I know I’m not too thrilled about it either.  But even though summer is about to give way to fall that doesn’t mean the awesome summer parties have to stop, right?  As a matter of fact, I still have one more great category of my Summer 2010 Must Haves to get through…a Rockin Labor Day Party!  So be sure to stop by all this week and check out the awesome products to help make this Labor Day your best yet!
I love this time of year, the heat and humidity are all but gone, yet it’s still warm enough to take a dip in the pool!  One of my families’ favorite things to do this time of year is a Family Picnic.  I love being able to pack up a nice lunch, grab some fishing pools, and a blanket and head out to our favorite picnic spot at our local recreation park!  That’s why we are giving you our list of the best products to make your Labor Day picnic or party a success!
I’m sure you would agree that one of the biggest issues with picnics is being able to keep food cold.  You can take the cooler, but sometimes you need something a little more compact, like the Ice Orb.  Now this product is without a doubt one of my favorite products for 2010 and in just a moment you will see why, but first a little background on the Ice Orb!  The Ice Orb (made by fusionbrands) is the first vertical ice tray; it makes, chills, serves, and stores!   
Ice Orb…what’s it all about?

• Makes 21 cubes of ice on a vertical wall
• Stores up to 51 cubes - airtight and odor free
• Chills wine and other beverages in a bottle
• Use as a cooler to keep cold foods fresh while serving
• Use lid under orb while serving to catch condensation
• Spill-proof design
• Dishwasher safe - top rack only
• 6" diameter x 5" tall

Pour water into the outer container of the Ice Orb and freeze

Several hours later…you have ice

Store ice in the outer container of the Ice Orb…also doubles as a unit for keeping food and drinks cold

Alright I cannot say enough good things about this product…I absolutely love it!  Aside from the fact that it’s the first vertical ice maker, it’s different, versatile, and fun!  I love that you can make 21 cubes of ice and store them in the middle container while you make more.  The only negative thing I can say about the Ice Orb is that it is a little difficult to get the outer ring (containing the ice) off of the inner container after the unit has been frozen (something the step-by-step directions that come with the Orb does tell you).  I have found that if you let the Ice Orb set out at room temperature for a few minutes or run it under a little hot water it’s so much easier to open the Ice Orb. 

One of the other features of the Ice Orb that I really like is the middle container which can be used to chill almost anything; a bottle of wine, water, dips, chilled deserts…and that is what makes it the perfect product to take with you on your next Family Picnic!  Fusion Brands makes all kinds of unique, fun, and functional kitchen gadgets so make sure you check them out…they have fast become one of my favorite companies!

Buy it!

You can purchase the Ice Orb online at www.fusionbrands.com for $16.00…it is so worth it!

Back to School with Pentel {Giveaway: 3 Winners)

Remember my admission that I have somewhat of an obsession with writing utensils?  Yes, well I seem to be collecting quite a bit of them lately, but with back to school for both myself and my girls that means some serious ink pen stockpiling is going on at my house!  And just as I have favorite brands of shoes and jeans, I have favorite brands of pens, and one of those brands just so happens to be Pentel!
Pentel has been supplying the world with only the best quality writing utensils for nearly 50 years, they are a leader in innovation and take their commitment to excellence very seriously. 
From the Pentel Website:
“Pentel is the only writing instrument company to receive the Deming Award for recognition of the highest standard of quality. Pentel invented roller ball technology... the smoothest way to express ideas. Pentel pioneered graphite lead and our Super Hi-Polymer® Lead is the market leader. Our automatic pencil inventions remain the hallmark of the industry.
We are as committed to quality products as we are to education and the environment. We sponsor numerous educational programs and donate products to libraries, schools and organizations of need. Our dozen boxes, master cartons and blister cards are printed on recycled and recyclable materials. Pentel is working with you to create a healthier environment. “
Pentel sent me several of their fabulous products to review including the EnerGel Deluxe Retractable Pen, Jolt mechanical pencil, RSVP RT Colors pens, and several other goodies!  While all of the pens and pencils are amazing there are two in particular that I was very impressed with, the JOLT Automatic Pencil and the EnerGel Deluxe Retractable Gel Pen. 
The JOLT automatic pencil shakes the lead out insuring uninterrupted lead flow.  The JOLT features revolutionary sliding sleeve technology that automatically advances the lead for uninterrupted use even if the lead breaks due to use.  The JOLT automatic pencil also features a contoured barrel for added comfort and a clear window which displays the pencils unique spring mechanism in action.  I have to be honest and tell you that I had my reservations about the JOLT (mainly because I don’t like mechanical pencils) but this pencil surprised me, I loved how easy it was to use and how much easier it made using a mechanical pencil.  One of the other standout products in my opinion was the EnerGel Deluxe Retractable Pen.  I am a sucker for liquid gel pens as they seem to write so much more easily and eloquently, but this pen has quickly become one of my absolute favorite writing utensils.   The EnerGel Deluxe Retractable Gel Pen is a top click, retractable pen with 0.7mm metal tip produces crisp, medium lines in black ink. The vivid, super-smooth liquid gel ink dries quickly without smearing, making it great for left-handed writers. Conveniently refillable with Pentel LR7 ink refill.
Between my obsession with ink pens and the need to have an abundance of high quality, affordable, writing utensils around the house for both mine and the girls’ school work, you just cannot go wrong with Pentel! 

Buy it!

You can purchase the Pentel products mentioned above as well as many others in Pentel’s online store!  You can even receive FREE Shipping  on all orders of $20 or more until September 30, 2010! 

Win it:  Mandatory Entry!

To enter this giveaway please visit Pentel and look around, come back here and leave a comment telling me which Pentel product(s) are your favorite!  This is mandatory and must be completed before any extra entries are allowed!

Extra Entries!

Please leave separate comments for each extra entry!

Follow MIBR via Email, RSS, of GFC:  2 extra entries each!
Follow @Allie_23 on Twitter:  2 extra entries
Tweet this giveaway on Twitter (2x per day per length of giveaway) Copy and paste or Retweet and be sure to include @Allie_23 in your Tweets:  “Win one of 3 Pentel Prize Packs at MIBR @Allie_23 http://tinyurl.com/26hwwlo!”
Follow @Pentel on Twitter:  2 extra entries
“Like” Misadventures in Baby Raising on Facebook:  2 extra entries
“Like” Pentel on Facebook:  2 extra entries: 
Share this giveaway on Facebook:  2x per day per length of giveaway
Follow MIBR via Networked Blogs:  2 extra entries
Stumble this giveaway:  2 extra entries
Enter any of the giveaways on MIBR:  1 extra entry per additional entry into giveaway
Blog about this giveaway with links to this post:  5 extra entries
This giveaway ends on Monday September 9, 2010 at 11:59 PM EST.  One winner will be chosen via Random.org and announced in a separate winner’s post.  Winner will have 48 hours to contact me and claim their prize; failure to do so will result in winner forfeiting his prize and me choosing a new winner.

30 Days of Truth Days 10 and 11

I decided to take a break from posting yesterday, hey it’s my blog I’ll take a break if I want to lol, but that means that I skipped Day 10 of 30 Days of Truth.  So I just decided to do day 10 and 11 together, again.  I really do love this and I encourage all of y’all to go over to Angel Believes and check it out and start your 30 Days of Truth too!
Day 10’s question is:  Someone you need to let go, or wish you didn’t know.
I swear these questions seem to get harder and harder.  I need to let go of the people in my life who I constantly try to help make themselves better.  By nature I’m a nurturer and part of that means that I always try to help people, even people who a.) don’t want to be helped and b.) don’t appreciate the help.  Constantly putting myself in the position where I go out on a limb and or put my wants and needs on the backburner for has made me see that I can’t help everyone and as sad as it makes me to realize defeat, I know it’s best for me and my family that I focus on us and let other people figure out their own issues on their own!
Day 11’s question is:  Something people seem to compliment you the most on
Alright so this one is fairly easy.  I guess the answer depends on what kind of compliment we’re talking about.  If the question is asking which characteristic I get complimented on the most I would have to say it’s my patience.  Almost daily someone asks me how I don’t crack under the constant pressure of four kids, school, wifely duties, and just life in general. 
If we’re talking about a physical characteristic that I get complimented on most then I would have to say my hair by other women and my butt by men.  Pretty straight forward I suppose. 

More winners!

Hey y’all!  I have more winners to announce!  The first giveaway we’re pulling a winner for is the Kroger “Add Up the Savings” giveaway

Winning number is:

Winning commenter:

August 24, 2010 6:54 PM 224

5webs

I would get Pillsbury Ready-To-Bake Cookies, Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls, and Chocolate Cheerios.
Alicia Webster
5webs@comcast.net

Congrats!

Next giveaway we’re choosing a winner for is the Seventh Generation Prize Pack Giveaway!

Winning number is:  

Winning commenter is:

August 13, 2010 5:20 PM 23

Tamara B.

#2, Follower Networked Blogs.
tamben7996(at)aol(dot)com

Congrats to both winners!  Winners have 48 hours to claim their prizes!  Thanks to everyone who entered! 

EyeBuyDirect.com {Giveaway}

Every year before school starts I take my girls to the eye doctor to have their eyes checked; sometimes the results are good, sometimes not so much.  Last year when my oldest daughter was having problems with her eyes while reading I decided to take her to the eye doctor.  After her exam I was informed that Taylor was having problems because she was crossing her eyes while she was reading.  Her eye doctor told me she needed bifocal reading glasses—alright.  We go to pick out her glasses and I was shocked at how little there was to choose from and even worse how much the frames and lenses cost—it cost a small fortune for those glasses. 

Recently I discovered EyeBuyDirect.com (why didn’t I know about this last year) a prescription eyewear website offering an extensive range of high quality, affordable frame and lens packages.  Launched in 2005, EyeBuyDirect has emerged as one of the major players in the world of online retail.  EyeBuyDirect has its finger on the pulse of what’s fashionable and hot in eyewear while keeping their prices affordable enough to make the most budget conscious moms and dads happy.  So why choose EyeBuyDirect.com for your prescription eyewear needs? 

• Expertise:  Comprised of industry specialists the EyeBuyDirect team are focused on customer service while still understanding their customers vision and optical needs.
• Price:  As an online retailer and manufacturer EyeBuyDirect.com is able to reduce the costs passed on by traditional retailers and that means more money in your pocket!
• Customer Service: Available to assist you even after you've received your glasses.
• Selection: EyeBuyDirect has a great selection of the hottest eyeglass styles and latest trends in eyewear.
• Convenience:  No crowds, no waiting in line at the register, and home delivery—online shopping at its finest!
• Satisfaction:  EyeBuyDirect believes in customer satisfaction, if you are not completely satisfied with your eyewear purchase you can return the product within 7 days and receive a full refund (shipping costs not included) or a new pair. No questions asked!

In addition to amazing customer service and low prices EyeBuyDirect has a large assortment of men's and women's glasses, fashion glasses, rimless frames, bifocal eyeglasses, sports glasses, prescription and non-prescription sunglasses, and so much more.  I have to admit that even though I don’t wear glasses, I was immediately drawn to these fabulous Lipsy Sun sunglasses…amazing!  One of the coolest features of the EyeBuyDirect.com website has to be the “Eye Try” feature that allows you to “try” on a pair of glasses before you buy them, you can upload your own photo, try different frames and be 100% sure you’ll love them before you purchase…I love that!   I don’t know about you, but being able to shop for fabulous, affordable eyewear from the comfort of my own home makes me very happy! 
Now I have a wonderful treat for all of my fabulous readers—EyeBuyDirect.com is giving one Misadventures in Baby Raising reader One free pair of prescription eyeglass of winner choice, value up to $100.( Frame + lenses )!  How awesome is that!?!

Win it:  Mandatory Entry!

To enter this giveaway please visit EyeBuyDirect.com and have a look around (try not to get lost in all of the fabulousness) then come back to this post and leave a comment telling me which frame you would choose if you won!  Simple as 1,2,3, BUT this must be done before any extra entries will be counted!

 

Extra Entries!

Please leave separate comments for each additional entry! 

 

Follow MIBR via Email, RSS, of GFC:  2 extra entries each!
Follow @Allie_23 on Twitter:  2 extra entries
Tweet this giveaway on Twitter (2x per day per length of giveaway) Copy and paste or Retweet and be sure to include @Allie_23 in your Tweets:  “Win a pair of prescription eyeglasses (winner’s choice) from @EyeBuyDirect value up to $100 at MIBR @Allie_23 http://tinyurl.com/26hwwlo!”
Follow @EyeBuyDirect on Twitter:  2 extra entries
“Like” Misadventures in Baby Raising on Facebook:  2 extra entries
“Like” EyeBuyDirect on Facebook:  2 extra entries: 
Share this giveaway on Facebook:  2x per day per length of giveaway
Follow MIBR via Networked Blogs:  2 extra entries
Stumble this giveaway:  2 extra entries
Post a comment to EyeBuyDirect’s  Wall of Frame:  2 extra entries
Enter any of the giveaways on MIBR:  1 extra entry per additional entry into giveaway
Post your "Eye Try" photo with your favorite frame to our Wall of Frame:  2 extra entries
Blog about this giveaway with links to this post as well as EyeBuyDirect.com:  5 extra entries

This giveaway ends on Friday September 10, 2010 at 11:59 PM EST.  Winner will receive a pair of prescription eyeglasses of the winner’s choice:  (Please note this is with the exception of designer eyewear and sunglasses. Lenses option except ’thin as possible’).  One winner will be chosen via Random.org and announced in a separate winner’s post.  Winner will have 48 hours to contact me and claim their prize, failure to do so will result in winner forfeiting their prizes and me choosing a new winner.

US Entries Only Please!

*This is a sponsored post*

30 Days of Truth Days 8 and 9: Yes, I’m a Slacker!

So I fell a little behind on my 30 Days of Truth—no bigge I’m just going to post days 8 and 9 together.  Is that cool? 

So Day 8’s Question is:  Someone who made your life hell or treated you like shit!

Wow, I could be here all day, but I’ll just say my ex husband and his ex and leave it at that.

Day 9 question is:  Someone you didn’t want to let go, but they just drifted.

This one is kind of complicated.  Complicated because I’m not really sure if I should admit it, but this is 30 days of truth so I will tell it like it is. 

Without naming names (though I’m sure if he were reading this he would probably know it was about him) I will just say that it was my first love.  For so many years I thought that he was “the one”, and for so long I used him as the guy I measured every other guy in my life against.  After we lost touch it was difficult to imagine that he would never be in my life again because he truly meant so much to me, but eventually I realized that if it were meant to be, it would be and if not, well we’d end up either never speaking to each other again or as pretty good friends.  I’m happy to say that I count him as one of my great friends and that is just as good (maybe better) than him being “the one”. 

The Fresh Beat Band is Back for Another Season!

I’ve mentioned before how much my children love The Fresh Beat Band, Lil Man is obsessed and watches every episode from start to finish without moving from his seat.  And I have to admit that I often catch myself watching with him and even singing along to the songs.  That’s why I was so excited to find out that Nickelodeon is kicking off the second season of The Fresh Beat Band with four new episodes Monday August 30-Thursday September 2!  You can check out all of the details below!

About The Fresh Beat Band

The Fresh Beat Band centers on four best friends – Kiki, Marina, Twist and Shout – in a band who attend music school together and love to sing and dance.  Set to original pop songs, the half-hour series teaches preschoolers about music appreciation and how to express their feelings through movement, song and instrumental music. Kids will also be introduced to the fundamentals of music such as melody, rhythm, tempo and performance styles.  In each episode, preschoolers will sing and dance along as they help The Fresh Beat Band solve everyday challenges.  Viewers also learn the importance of friendship, working together in a positive way and respecting each other’s differences.

 Nickelodeon's preschool comedy series The Fresh Beat Band returns for a second season of hijinks and high-energy music with four new episodes premiering Monday, Aug. 30 - Thursday, Sept. 2, at 11:30 a.m. ET/PT.   Throughout the new 20-episode season, preschoolers will see the Fresh Beats save a circus, perform in a Zydeco parade, camp in the great outdoors, build a brand new car and visit Toyland in a fantastical holiday special.  Along the way, the Fresh Beat Band will learn and play new styles of music, including Jazz, Conga, Bluegrass and Motown.  Plus, every episode will conclude with a “Fresh Beat Blast” where viewers have an opportunity to see themselves sing and dance on the show.  The Fresh Beat Band regularly airs weekdays at 1:30 p.m. ET/PT on Nickelodeon.

The episodes for the season two premiere week are as follows (all times are 11:30 a.m. ET/PT):

• Monday, Aug. 30 "Circus Mojo" (PREMIERE)
  When only some of the circus arrives, the Fresh Beats jump in to help save it for the Junior Beats.  Twist and Shout claim the flying silks, Kiki performs on the floating lyra and Marina on the soft swing.  The Fresh Beats find their acts harder than they expected.  Marina encourages the others but then needs some encouragement of her own when asked to step in as the ringmaster. Music Curriculum:  Calliope
• Tuesday, Aug. 31 "Honk Honk" (PREMIERE)
  The Fresh Beats decide to order a new car online.  However, when it’s delivered, it comes in 57 boxes and they can't figure out how to put it together.  Shout rallies them to put the car together by following the instructions one step at a time to build a rockin’ new car! Music Curriculum:  Melody
• Wednesday, Sept. 1 "Camping with the Stars" (PREMIERE)
  It's summer and the Fresh Beats go camping and hope to spot a shooting star.  They bring their acoustic instruments so they can jam along with the sounds of nature.  But it’s Twist’s first time camping and he has a lot to learn – until he saves the day by staying up and spotting shooting stars! Music Curriculum:  Acoustic Instruments
• Thursday, Sept. 2  "Singin' in the Rain" (PREMIERE) When it starts raining, Twist, Shout and Kiki run for cover, but the rain sounds inspire Marina to write a new song.  When the rain suddenly stops, Marina can't finish her song.  Twist, Shout and Kiki help Marina and they create an authentic "rhythm-of-the-rain" sound.  In the rain, Marina kicks off a cool song and dance number with everyone wearing bright colored raincoats, hats and carrying umbrellas.
  Music Curriculum:  Rhythm 
  
  
    
  

More winners!

This is without a doubt, my favorite part of being a review blogger…giving away great prizes to all of my amazing readers!

So here we go.  Today’s winner’s are for the Stellarocco Giveaway!

First winning number is:

 

 

 

 

 

And the first lucky winner is:

August 23, 2010 7:26 AM 178

Courtney

fb fan 2 courtney bella

Second winning number is:

 

 

 

 

 

 

And the second lucky winner is:

August 16, 2010 12:55 AM 87

susan

I entered your Tea Collection Clothing: BTS Blowout! $100 GC Giveaway.

Congrats to both winners!  Be sure to check your inbox for your winner’s email!  Both winner’s have 48 hours to reply to the email and claim their prize!

Thank to everyone who entered!

High Sierra: BTS Blowout {Review+Giveaway}

  One of the most important aspects of back to school is picking the right backpack. Finding the right backpack could mean the difference between a good school year and a great school year.  Backpack selection is always one of the very first items of business when back to school shopping for my girls, and they waste no time telling me what is acceptable and what is not.  One of first places we check out when shopping for backpacks is High Sierra.
I have been a fan of High Sierra for a while now; I love their selection of backpacks, the prices are affordable, and the durability of their backpacks (at least in my experience) is unmatched.  High Sierra Sports Company offers a wide variety of bags for adventure travel, business, active outdoor, luggage, school and more; if you are in the market for a bag chances are pretty good that High Sierra has it!  High Sierra’s line of Day Bags (perfect for school) has an array of styles, colors, and patterns for your little one (or you) to choose something absolutely perfect! 
I was so excited when I was given the opportunity to do a review for High Sierra, aside from the fact that I love their bags, I was so excited to tell all of you about them!  We received the Sheridan backpack for our review.  At this point I feel the need to mention again just how many styles of backpacks High Sierra has to choose from; Curve, Benson, Opie, Airhead, Wilder, Malcolm, Ziggy, Caldwell, and the list goes on and on.  When our package from High Sierra arrived I think I was as excited as my daughter was about opening the box.  As soon as we opened the box and my daughter saw the backpack she squealed with joy over how, “super cute” it was.  I have to admit, the backpack was adorable, but more than that the backpack looked super functional. 
Features of the Sheridan Day Bag

Large, multi-compartment design.

CUSHION ZONE padded computer sleeve holds most 17" (screen size) notebook computers. (max. size 16" x 11" x 1.625")

Large front pocket holds accessories.

Core organizer with mesh pocket, pen pockets, and key fob.

Large, gusseted mesh pocket on the side holds a beverage or extra gear.

Comfortable padded Core back panel.

Yoke-style, S-shaped, VAPEL™ mesh AIRFLOW™ padded shoulder straps with Suspension System and integrated media/cell phone pocket.

Attach extra gear with the convenient triangle clip.­­

Aside from the backpack being fashionable I was surprised at how much room it had, the backpack was extra roomy without being too big and bulky for my petite 8 year old.  One of my favorite features of the Sheridan day bag is  definitely the multi-compartment design of the bag, there is room for anything and everything Savanna could want or need to take to school.  I also really like the fact that the day bag has padded shoulder straps, with as much as the kids are required to bring home with them from school these days the padded shoulder straps are a plus.  Of course, the most important aspect of a backpack is whether or not a child likes it, and Savanna loves this backpack. 
So if you’re in the market for a killer backpack for your kiddo for back to school this year, make sure you check out the large selection of affordable bags at High Sierra!  Also make sure to check out High Sierra’s Facebook page where you can find out about great deals, new products, and maybe even a contest or two!

Buy it!

To find out where you can pick up the Sheridan Day Bag and so many other fabulous bags visit www.hssc.com!

High Sierra has offered one of my misadventurous readers one of their High Sierra backpacks! 

Win it:  Mandatory Entry!

To enter this giveaway please visit High Sierra and look around, come back here and tell me which bag(s) you like best.  This is mandatory and must be completed before any extra entries will be counted!

Extra Entries

Follow Me Baby!  Via Email, RSS, or GFC:  2 extra entries
Grab MIBR’s BTS Blowout button:  2 extra entries
Follow me on Twitter:  2 extra entries
Tweet this giveaway on Twitter(copy and paste tweet below or use retweet just be sure to include @Allie_23):  2 Tweets Per Day Per Length of Giveaway
Win a backpack from High Sierra at MIBR @Allie_23 http://tinyurl.com/29n2ez2 Check it out!
Follow MIBR via Networked Blogs:  2 extra entries
“Like” MIBR on Facebook:  2 extra entries
Share this giveaway on Facebook:  2x per day for length of giveaway
“Like” High Sierra on Facebook:  2 extra entries
Stumble this giveaway (just this post):  3 extra entries
Enter any of the MIBR giveaways:  1 extra entry each

This giveaway ends on Wednesday September 9, 2010 at 11:59 PM EST.  Winner will receive a bag (of sponsors choice). One winner will be chosen via Random.org and announced in a separate winner’s post.  Winner will have 48 hours to contact me and claim their prize, failure to do so will result in winner forfeiting their prizes and me choosing a new winner.

30 Days of Truth Day 7

It’s Day 7 of 30 Days of Truth!  If you don’t knoq what it’s all about check out Angel Believes are join in! 

Day 7 question is:  Someone who has made your life worth living for

Well I’m sure it’s no surprise that I am going to say it’s my children.  I can’t even begin to imagine how my life would have turned out had I not had my babies. 

When I first found out that I was going to be a mommy my entire life changed in an instant.  Until that moment I had partied when I wanted, done things that I never should have done, and had absolutely no responsibilities or limits—and then I saw the two lines on the pregnancy test.  Overnight I changed my entire outlook on life…I wanted  to make myself better for my baby, and I did! 

Becoming a mom made me see things in a different life, it made me realize that the life I had been living was stupid, dangerous, and wrong on so many levels…I never looked back!  My oldest daughter saved me from myself and for that I will forever be grateful!

Lots of Winners!

I always get so excited when I post winners…it makes me so happy for the people who win! 

Alright so today we have 2 winners; the Carolina Pad winner and the Yo Gabba Gabba Medicine Time Spray winners!

First up Carolina Pad!  Winning number is:

 

 

 

 

 

 

And our lucky winner is:

August 22, 2010 9:34 AM 185

MAT

My favorite is the new Graffiti collection.
sinhead83 at hotmail dot com

Next up is the Yo Gabba Gabba Medicine Time Spray!  This one has 2 winners!

First winning number is:

 

 

 

 

 

 

And our first lucky winner is:

August 23, 2010 7:52 PM 38

Tabathia

tweet
http://twitter.com/ChelleB36/status/21967063168
tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com

Second winning number is:

 

 

 

 

 

And our second lucky winner is: 

August 16, 2010 10:32 PM 22

MaryB

Entered Tea!
mcbrady 13 at hotmail dot com
(openID thishumanscondition)

Congrats to all winners!  Be sure to check your inboxes for your winners email!  You have 48 hours to respond and claim your prize!  Thank to all who entered!

30 Days of Truth Day 6: {Vlog}

I decided to switch today’s 30 Days of Truth Post up a bit and do a vlog, its been a while so I though what the hell!

Question for Day 6 is:  Something you hope you never have to do?  Enjoy!

Oh and btw wth kind of thumbnail is that…did they have to pick the WORST frame in the whole video and use that!

Paper Mate: BTS Blowout {Giveaway}

In my house stuff disappears, keys, clothes, shoes, diapers, pens, and as much as I do not like it, it seems to be just the way things are around here.  Every year when I buy school supplies I always make sure to buy extra; extra paper, extra glue, and definitely extra pens and pencils.  Pens and pencils seem to disappear around here as often as I change my clothes and it drives me insane.  Especially because I am a little crazy when it comes to pens, I’m picky and I like what I like—that’s just me.  When I find a pen that I like I buy them in bulk, you know how some moms hide their favorite sweet treats away from sticky little fingers?  Well I hide (or hoard) my pens.

Since I am so picky about pens I tend to stick with brands that I know and love—like Paper Mate.  I’ve been buying Paper Mate products for years, and with good reason, I love them!  So when I had the opportunity to do a review for some Paper Mate products I was over the moon excited…yes I am that big of a dork!  Paper Mate sent me several products to review including quite a few from their Green line! Some of the goodies Paper Mate sent me to review! 

Paper Mate Biodegradable

*  Part of the first biodegradable line up of products.

*  Biodegradable components are made from an exclusive corn-based material, a renewable resource, to produce less waste and more compost.

*  Smooth, comfortable writing experience.

*  Available in ball point pen and mechanical pencil.

*  Mechanical pencil starter kits feature a unique eraser and lead refill holder made of biodegradable material

Paper Mate FlexGrip Ultra Recycled all Point Pen

*  Classic trusted favorite, now part of greener choices—made from 70% recycled material

*  Grip rings near the tip for added comfort

Paper Mate Earth Write Recycled Pencil

*  100% recycled cedar wood from the USA

Paper Mate Write Bros. Recycled Ball Point Pen

*   Classic trusted favorite now part of greener choices—the recycled version is made from 80% recycled material

First I have to say that the Paper Mate Gel pens are my absolute favorite pens hands down; I love the way they write, the way the tip of the pen glides over the paper, and the finished product—it seems to just make my writing look more elegant and beautiful!  Since I am so picky when it comes to pens I really didn’t think I would adjust to using the other pens and like them as well as I like the Gel pens, but I was wrong.  My favorite pen in the Green Line is hands down the Paper Mate Biodegradable!  I love that the pen is fairly big around, I think fatter pens are easier to write with than their skinnier counterparts, and the fact that it glides along the paper so effortlessly certainly didn’t hurt!  I am also curious about ways to make my family’s life more eco-friendly and green and in my opinion this is a great starting point! 

Even though I did like some of the Paper Mate products more than others (I don’t write with regular pencils much so I didn’t really have an opinion on them) I think it’s safe to say that this company knows what they are doing when it comes to writing utensils! 

If you get a chance head over to Paper Mate’s Facebook page, they have a ton of great stuff going on over there!  You can upload a picture of you with your Paper Mate Pen and receive a FREE Paper Mate Pen (I’m all over that), you can also collect UPC codes from Paper Mate Products for a chance to win $15,000 worth of Paper Mate products for your school!

Buy it!

You can purchase Paper Mate products online, at Office Max, Walmart, Office Depot, and more!

Since the people at Paper Mate are so very awesome…they are giving 2 lucky MIBR readers some fabulous Paper Mate products!  Each winner will receive a 5-pack of Paper Mate Gel Pens and a Silhouette mechanical pencil (with refills)!

Win it:  Mandatory Entry!

To enter this giveaway please visit Paper Mate, come back and leave a comment on this post telling me which Paper Mate product(s) are your favorite!  This is mandatory and must be completed before any additional entries are counted! 

Extra Entries

Follow MIBR via GFC, Email, or RSS:  2 extra entries
Follow MIBR via Networked Blogs:  2 extra entries
Follow MIBR on Twitter:  2 extra entries
Grab our Back to School Blowout Button:  2 extra entries

<center><a href="http://misadventuresinbabyraising.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s1/aproffitt79/BTS.jpg" /></a></center>

Tweet this giveaway on Twitter (copy and paste the following Tweet or ReTweet and include @Allie_23):  2x per day per length of giveaway
I entered the Paper Mate Giveaway at MIBR http://tinyurl.com/38g9p36 @Allie_23
“Like” MIBR on Facebook:  2 extra entries
“Like” Paper Mate  on Facebook:  2 extra entries
Share this giveaway on Facebook:  2x per day per length of giveaway
Participate in one of the discussions on MIBR’s FB Page:  2 extra entries
Stumble this giveaway:  2 extra entries
Blog about this giveaway with a link to this post:  5 extra entries

This giveaway ends on Monday September 6, 2010 at 11:59 PM EST.  Two winners will be chosen via Random.org and announced in a separate winner’s post.  Winners will have 48 hours to contact me and claim their prize; failure to do so will result in winner forfeiting his prize and me choosing a new winner.

Simply-Bags: Personalized Lunch Bags and Much More!

School starts today for my girlies, and they are super excited to get back into the swing of things at school.  Back to School means that our Back to School Blowout is still going strong…make sure you’ve checked out all of the back to school products we’ve introduced you too and don’t forget to enter all of the fabulous giveaways as well! 

One of my girls’ favorite parts of back to school shopping is picking out a new lunchbox!  I can’t say I blame them, I remember the excitement of packing my lunch up in a brand new lunchbox and showing it off to all of my friends.  Of course, not all lunchboxes are created equal and finding one that is just right is a major undertaking, especially for my girl Savanna.  Savanna is the type of girl who likes things exactly the way she liked them and as a result of that perfectionism she is not so easy to please.

So we go lunchbox shopping and after what seemed like hours of scouring the shelves and turning her nose up at most of the lunchboxes, Savanna exclaims that she cannot find a lunchbox that she likes.  We leave the stores with no lunchboxes and one very disappointed Savanna.  On the way home from our unsuccessful shopping trip Savanna tells me, “Mom I want a lunchbox that is cute and unique and not too girly…something that’s made for me!”  A few days later I received an email from a company requesting a review called Simply Bags, I go to their website to have a look around and spot their selection of lunch bags …and I knew that I had found exactly what Savanna was looking for!  Simply Bags is a company who specializes in monogrammed bags; from personalized tote bags and laptop bags to diaper bags and embroidered lunch bags, Simply Bags is a haven for people who want something different and special in a bag! 

For my review I decided on a embroidered lunch bag for Savanna.  Their lunch bags are insulated and include complimentary embroidery or monogramming.  We decided on having her name embroidered in pink on the front of the blue polka dot bag.  Simply Bags has an impressive selection of lunch bags to choose from as well.  When I received Savanna’s lunch bag from Simply Bags I couldn’t wait to see it.  I have to tell you that when I opened the box and saw the bag I was completely surprised and greatly impressed at how fabulous it was.  From it’s adorable half blue, half blue and white polka dot pattern to the cute little pink and green flowers embroidered in the corner it was just so cute.  And when I saw how incredible her name looked on the front I knew that we had made the right choice and that Savanna had found THE lunch bag for this school year.  Aside from the color and amazing embroidery job, I was shocked at how much room the lunch bag had inside. 

Modeling her lunch bag

 

Amazing embroidery work!

Tons of room in both the top and bottom (shown above) compartments!

Product Description:  Adorable girls lunch tote for school. Insulated top with zippered bottom. Use with or without the lower portion 9” x 6” storage container. Great colors… Ocean blue or summer green. Coordinates with our girls beach tote for a matched set. Includes name or three letter monogram.

This lunch bag is absolutely worth every penny of its $24.99 price tag…and can you believe that price…amazing!

Buy it!

You can purchase this lunch box and SO much more at Simply-Bags.com!