Friday, January 31, 2014

5 Fine Motor Activities for Under $5 & 5 Years Old (BLT)

            Hey folks! It's been awhile since I've done a Baby Learning Time post. I'm a big fan of fun sensory projects, but I thought I would focus on some ways to help with fine motor development for a change. (Although a lot of time the two can be interchangeable.)
            There are plenty of ways and reasons to work on fine motor skills with your children at home. Maybe you homeschool, or have a child with delays in this area, or perhaps you just want to help further strengthen your child's abilities. Regardless of your reasons, who doesn't like saving a buck? Doing learning activities at home doesn't have to be pricy. That's why I've compiled this list of 5 simple fine motor activities for under $5 (each) for children under 5!

Coloring: Not all kids like to color, but most do and it's a time honored classic. You can get a set of crayons for a few bucks (if that) and probably even some paper all for less than $5. Not only does coloring help with fine motor coordination, but also hand-eye coordination and, of course, creativity. Coloring pages are nice for helping older kids learn to have control over where they're coloring, but be sure to let them have free reign and draw whatever they like too sometimes.

The flash on my phone is a little bright. lol
Finger Painting: Finger painting is a fun sensory and fine motor activity and has pretty much the same benefits as coloring. Plus it poses a good opportunity to teach children about different colors as well. Other than buying finger paints, there are a plethora of homemade recipes on Pinterest and elsewhere on the Internet nowadays. Also, here is my other BLT post on Finger Painting.

Lacing: There are many cute lacing toys on the market these days, like from Melissa & Doug, but there's no need to spend the money on them if you aren't able or don't want to! I've seen some really cute ideas for homemade lacing activities on Pinterest, such as a snowman made with paper plates with holes punched around the outside for lacing. (Click HERE for an idea.) I've made plenty a cute winter project already this season, so I decided to forgo the cute snowman and use an empty tp roll. (Read: Myka's not old enough to really lace it, so I didn't feel like wasting my time on something cute. lol) Lacing is kind of like a more hands on version of connect the dots. It is also good for hand-eye coordination.

Sorting: Sorting objects can be helpful in a lot of growth and development departments. Other than fine motor, it can also be good for hand-eye coordination, learning colors, size differentiation, and other similarities and differences between objects. You can use just about anything you can think of for sorting activities. For example, gather up different colored objects and a box. Ask your child to find the red items and place them in the box. You get the idea. If you have children closer towards 5, you can try giving them a pair of tweezers and sort small objects that way. This is a popular home Montessori activity.


Water Beads: This is by far one of my favorite activities, fine motor or otherwise. At our house, water beads go hand in hand with sorting. Myka has an obsession with transferring these beads from one container to another. They are slippery, so that adds an extra challenge. You can find these at craft stores like Michael's for under $5. The ones that haven't been hydrated yet are cheaper than the pre-hydrated ones and you get a lot more. If you get colored ones, I highly suggest washing the dye off first because, well, that would just be an awful mess. You can read more about our water bead fun HERE.

Disclaimer: As usual, if you have a young child that likes to put everything in his/her mouth, please use common sense. Either watch them like a hawk while supervising these activities or choose appropriate alternatives. (Such as waiting until they are older or using all-natural, non-toxic materials, which is just a good idea anyways.) I am not responsible for any injuries or death in conjunction to these activities. Again, please use common sense. Thanks!

Thursday, January 30, 2014

Spray Quick Giveaway

Welcome to the The Spray Quick Giveaway!
Sponsored by Spray Quick
and
Hosted by Kathleen from My Best of Both Worlds

Do you use a diaper sprayer for your cloth diapers? I can tell you from experience, a good one is a valuable asset to have! Enter to win one of your own below!-GGWB
 
CHROME
My Best of Both Worlds and a great group of bloggers have come together to offer one lucky person the chance to win a Spray Quick Handheld Sprayer! Huge thanks to the bloggers who are helping promote this giveaway, and even bigger thanks to you, our wonderful fans. If you have not had a chance to check out all the amazing uses for a Spray Quick handheld sprayer click here for My Best of Both World's review post. You can also view the video to see how easy the Spray Quick Diaper Sprayer is to install. No need for a plumber you can do it yourself. About The Giveaway:
  • Prize: Spray Quick Handheld Sprayer
  • Open: Giveaway is open World Wide (except for Australia as products are not compatible there)
  • Ending Date: 2/13/14
  • Must be over the age of 18
  • Enter using the rafflecopter below- the only mandatory entry is to leave a comment on the blog you are entering from. All the other entries are optional. Remember the more entries you complete the better chance you have to win. All entries WILL be verified.
  • Good Luck!!!!
  a Rafflecopter giveaway
 Disclosure: My Best of Both Worlds was compensated either by free product or payment. All other blogs participating did not receive any compensation in exchange for promotion of the giveaway. They just want to bring their readers great giveaways! Verified Winner will be contacted by email and have 48 hours to respond before a new winner will be drawn. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law. The sponsor will be responsible for product shipment to winner of the giveaway. Sponsor will be responsible for prize fulfillment. This event is in no way associated with, sponsored, administered, or endorsed by Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google, and any other social media are not affiliated with this posting or giveaway. This disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. If you have any questions, please email Kathleen@mybestofbothworlds.com

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

(Almost) Wordless Wednesday

            Doesn't she look so happy? ha ha! I'm glad she's starting to enjoy stacking her blocks as well as knocking them over. Obviously you have no reason to believe me since I don't have photographic evidence (even then you probably wouldn't believe me), but I SO wish I would have gotten a picture of the stack she made before this one. She had them stacked 3 high like in this one, but with a blue one laying flat, a yellow one on its end like in this picture, and a red one on its end on on top of that! How the crap did a 15 month old get that to balance without falling over? O.o lol Some kind of baby sorcery, I say...

One of those things other parents don't warn you about...

            Recently, I had one of those "fun" experiences that no other seasoned parent warns you about. Isn't it funny how parents are over eager to share some parenting experiences with you, but totally neglect other ones that would have been nice to know about ahead of time so you could at least prepare yourself?
            A couple of weeks ago, I took Myka for her 15 month check-up. I was mostly concerned he was going to make a big deal of her not walking on her own yet.(For the record, I wasn't and am still not worried about it. I know she'll walk eventually. But you know how doctors are sometimes. :P) As usual I was anticipating how she would react to the shots, but that was about it. I didn't give a second thought to how the rest of the visit would go. Big mistake on my part.

Monday, January 27, 2014

Andy Pandy Diaper Giveaway


Welcome to the Andy Pandy Bamboo Disposable Diaper Giveaway! 
A biodegradable, bamboo disposable diaper free of perfumes, latex and antioxidants! 100% chlorine free!
Andy Pandy Diapers
Photo Credit: Andy Pandy
Sponsored by: Andy Pandy Diapers
Co-Hosted by: Mommys Craft Obsession
Andy Pandy Diapers

Crunchy Livin Mama Style received 2 packs of diapers from Andy Pandy Diapers in exchange for her honest review.  
This blog has not been compensated in the promotion of this giveaway.


Andy Pandy Premium Bamboo Disposable Diapers products were driven by their love for the plant and their children.  Bamboo is one of the fastest growing plants in the world without any chemical fertilizers that is also soft yet strong. This makes it a great resource to use. Andy Pandy Diapers are biodegradable and eco-friendly, while being free of Phthalates, Latex or Antioxidants.  They are also 100% Chlorine Free and perfume free.  They are naturally hypoallergenic and antibacterial - making them perfect for even the most sensitive skins.The diapers are available in 4 sizes - Small, Medium, Large and X-Large.


The diapers are fitted for children from 6.5 lbs to 30+ lbs.  Their Small diaper is geared toward 6.5-17 lbs, Medium 13-22 lbs, Large 20-31 lbs and XL 26+ lbs.  Great at moisture wicking away from the skin while being soft and smooth against baby's bottom with a natural aloe liner.  The front of the diaper also features a moisture indicator to make it easier to track wet diapers for event the tiniest of babies!

Click HERE to read Crunchy Livin Mama Style's review of the Bamboo Disposable diapers from Andy Pandy!

Matilda Jane $50 GC Giveaway

Welcome to the Matilda Jane Clothing Giveaway!

Sponsored by: Matilda Jane Clothing

Hosted by: Savory Savings & Gloriously Green Gal

Co-hosted by: Joy Makin’ Mamas, The Parent Spot and
Cotton Ridge Homeschool

#giveaway
Matilda Jane Clothing makes beautiful and well-made clothing for little girls that is appropriate and comfortable.  Their goal is to help keep little girls youthful and prevent them from growing up too quickly by putting them into clothes that are better suited for an older tween or teen.  Their fun and whimsical style is what drew Krista from Savory Savings and Gloriously Green Gal in – in her review, she shared that the outfit from Matilda Jane held up well when washed, provided movement for playing and looked great, too!  If you would like to win a $50 gift card to Matilda Jane Clothing to buy an outfit for the little lady in your life (or perhaps something for yourself as they do offer some adult-wear, too!), enter with the Giveaway Tool below.
If you have won a Matilda Jane Clothing giveaway anytime from another blog in the last 12 months, you are not eligible to win this giveaway.  The giveaway will run from January 27, 2013 through February 10, 2014 at 11 PM CST.  Entries will be verified.  Winner will be notified via email (consider adding gloriouslygreengal@gmail.com to your safe list) – winner will have 48 hours to respond and claim prize or another winner will be selected.
Good Luck!

Dr.Praeger's Kids Food

            It's not very often that I write about companies just because I like them so much. (Just for the record, though, almost every single review I've done in the past are all from companies that I contacted first. So yes, I really do only recommend products that I would use/buy!) However, I'm talking about stuff that I actually buy myself. Dr.Praeger's happens to be one of those few companies that I've gotten excited enough about and enjoyed so much that I felt compelled to share them with all of you!
            I'll admit we've only actually tried one of their kids food items so far, but I love it! Their Spinach Littles are the greatest thing ever. I'm so glad my husband found them in the frozen food section by accident one day.

Combi All-in-One Mobile Entertainer Giveaway



Welcome to the Combi Silver Flame All In One Mobile Entertainer Giveaway!
This giveaway is proudly hosted by Mommys Craft Obsession and generously sponsored by Combi!

This is one of the coolest baby products I have seen! Your child can use it as a bouncer OR a walker. Be sure to read about all of its other great features below and enter to win your own...before it's even available in stores!

Photo Copyright: Combi

Combi USA is a quality baby gear company that was established in the United States in 1989. Combi originated in Tokyo, Japan in 1957 and cultivated from a firm and growing foundation of customer trust. For over 40 years Combi has been providing safe and original products for every setting of your child's life. 

I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to review the amazing Shuttle Infant Car Seat and Catalyst Stroller from Combi several months ago and was more than impressed with their wonderful quality and craftsmanship. Combi really listened to what parents want in terms of safety and functionality and brought it to life within their infant car seat and stroller. You can read my review of those two items here.

When Combi asked me to help promote their *NEW* Walmart Exclusive Silver Flames All In One Mobile Entertainer, I jumped on the opportunity to bring our readers the chance to take a look at this fantastic piece of baby gear, and to have the chance to win it before it's available in the stores! 

All In One Mobile Entertainer Features & Specs: 

  • Walker/Bouncer/Entertainment Center
  • 3 Position Height Adjustment
  • Childrens Weight Limit: Up to 30 lbs.
  • Product Weight: 14 lbs.
  • Product Dimentions: 18" X 26" X 21.5"
  • Snack Tray
  • Jump & Lock Feature
  • Toy Dashboard with Lights & Sounds
  • Available in 8 Different Colors including 2 Buy Buy Baby Exclusives and 1 Walmart Exclusive
Color Choices:


Photo Copyrights: Combi



To Purchase: Combi products are available at various baby stores across the US and you can pick up your All In One Mobile Entertainer for just $109+! 

To Win: Before the Silver Flames All In One Mobile Entertainer becomes availableCombi and Mommys Craft Obsession want to give you the chance to win one! Enter to win using the Giveaway Tools form below! This is a US Residents only giveaway!


The Giveaway will close late on the evening of February 10th. The winner will be chosen at random through  Giveaway Tools.  The winner will be announced both on Giveaway Tools form as well as notified by email and announced on MCO’s Facebook. The winner will have their prize sent to them by Combi USA, Mommys Craft Obsession and participating bloggers are not responsible for prize shipment. Must be 18 years and older. Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google are in no way affiliated with this giveaway. No Purchase Necessary. Void Where Prohibited by Law. US Only.  This article is 100% original and in my own words. Everything written is from my own personal view point and opinions and I have not been influenced by any outside sources. What works for me, may not work for you. All photos have been taken by me unless stated otherwise. I have NOT been provided with product or compensation by Combi USA. This disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

A Winter Wonderland of Babies Giveaway Event

Mama on a Green Mission

A Winter Wonderland Of Babies Event Is HERE! We get to CELEBRATE all the new babies in our lives!

Joy Of Momma Joyner and Mama On A Green Mission are both welcoming their 3rd babies in the next few weeks! Along with a wonderful group of bloggers, they want to offer ONE WINNER an awesome Prize Package full of great items for Mama, Baby, and even for Siblings!
The Prize Package Includes:
logos2
Halo - Swaddle - $38
Pish Posh Baby - OiOi Diaper Bag - $130
Undercover Mama - Nursing Tank Top - $25
Boba - 4G Carrier - $128
Live Clean Baby - Tearless Shampoo & Wash, Moisturizing Baby Wash, Moisturizing Baby Lotion, Non-Petroleum Jelly, and Moisturizing Bar Soap - $35
Fairhaven Health - Milkies Milk Saver, Milkies Freeze, and winner's choice of Nursing Postnatal or the Nursing Blend - $90
Making Mama's Milk Cookies - 1 Month Supply Of Cookies - $48
Wink Shapewear - Ultimate Belly and Hip Shaper - $50
Avent - 2 Bottles and Double Electric Breast Pump - $230
Tiny Love - NEW Gymini Developlace - $80
Woolino - Swaddle and Hat - $70
Kolcraft - Contours Clasique 3-in-1 Bassinet - $200
Build A Bear - Gift Card - $25
Envie de Fraises - Nursing Top and 2-pack Nursing Bras - $105
Pink Blush Maternity - Nursing Dress - $35
Kerrific Kerr Online - Burp Cloth Set - $43
Tickety Toc - DVD - $10
Applecheeks - Applecheeks Bundle and Wet Bag - $40
Red Barn Cloth Diapers - AI2 Diaper - $24
I See Me - Hello World Book - $30
Little Me - Sleeper and Coming Home Outfit - $50
Swaddle Designs - Crib Sheet and Ultimate Receiving Blanket - $55
Delta Children - Multi-Bin Organizer - $30
Tommee Tippee - Complete Starter Kit, Pacifiers, Teethers - $118
Wee Urban - Romper - $28
Simple Wishes - Hands Free Pumping Bra - $39
That's a Total Prize Package Value of $1,756!!
So, what do you think? Ready to enter? It's simple! Just fill out the Giveaway Tools Form below. There are plenty of entry options, and the more you do, the better your chances of winning are!
The A Winter Wonderland Of Babies Event Prize Package is open to all legal residents of the United States who are 18-years-old or older. This event will run from 12:00am EST Monday, January 27, 2014 through 11:59pm EST Friday, February 14, 2014. Best Of Luck!
Entry-Form
Joy Of Momma Joyner, Mama On A Green Mission, and all the participating blogs are not responsible for the fulfillment of the prizes. The sponsors will send the prizes directly to the winner. We are also not responsible for any unfortunate accidents that may result from the use of any of these products.

Saturday, January 25, 2014

Zoobean Giveaway

Welcome to the Zoobean Giveaway!

Handpicked, curated children's book and apps delivered right to you every month!

You know me: I love books! I especially love discovering new children's books. (Although Myka is still a stinker and doesn't let me read to her hardly ever!) Zoobean is such a unique and wonderful idea! 

zoobean
  • Handpicked and curated book choices based on your individual child's interests and reading level,. Makes it easy to provide your child with books they will LOVE!
  • Carefully constructed reading guides help you extend the story and expand your child's literacy skills
  • Coordinated apps keep children engaged and excited about reading!
Please check out the full review at One Little Mister.
Enter to win via the rafflecopter below!
a Rafflecopter giveaway    
Disclosure: One Little Mister and participating bloggers were not compensated for the promotion of this giveaway. All opinions are our own and were not influenced in any way. The sponsor will be responsible for fulfillment.

Friday, January 24, 2014

Help Fight Childhood Cancer!

             Have you heard of the St.Baldrick's Foundation? I hadn't until Jessie, who wrote today's guest post, came along. Read more about her inspiring story and what the St.Baldrick's Foundation is all about below!

            In 2012, I made the crazy decision to shave my head! While bad hair days had been known to drive me crazy that isn't why I decided to go bald. I went bald for a wonderful cause! I shaved my head to raise money for The St. Baldrick's Foundation. It was such a great experience that I'm shaving my head again on March 15th, 2014! My goal is to raise $2000 to help conquer kids cancer and I hope you can help!

30 Day Honey Challenge-Day 7

 
            One week down, 3 and some change to go! Maybe it's just the lighting or the fact that I waited so long after I washed my face today to take the pictures, but it really seems like the redness is chilling out. On the right side of my neck, anyways.
Yesterday
 Today 
(Told you guys I lived in this jacket. lol Don't worry. It gets washed. ;) )

            I was just wondering, where do you guys get your honey from? Do you buy it straight from a local provider, order raw honey online from elsewhere, or what? Let me know in the comments below!
 

Thursday, January 23, 2014

30 Day Honey Challenge-Day 6

 
            Welcome to Day 6 of the Honey Challenge! Hard to believe it's been a week already. Time flies, huh?
            Anyways, how is your honey treating you? (No, not your significant other. ;) ) Are you using raw honey? What type? Did you know there are TONS of different types of honey out there, according to what season it is harvested in and what flowers, trees, or etc. it came from? It's pretty fascinating! I'll share a little more about this with you in a few weeks when I do a review for several different types of raw honey from Mohawk Valley Trading Company!
            If I haven't mentioned it already, yes, I am using raw honey for this challenge. It is local too! We went to our county fair this past fall for funsies and came across a local business that sells it here in town along with other neat natural stuff, like teas and salves.
            Let's jump to the photo update before I start rambling too much. ;) I'm not sure what's going on today, but I feel like my face looks worse than it has the past few days. I'm going to blame it on stress over doctor's appointments. Is that valid? lol I took Myka for her 15 month check-up today and I have a yearly appointment at the gyno tomorrow. What a fun way to spend my birthday week, huh?
It may not look it, but I do feel like the nasties on my neck are healing some finally. They were itchy yesterday. Itchy is a sign of healing, right?

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Boba 4G Carrier Giveaway

This blog was not compensated in anyway for this post.
boba4ggivaway
I love the New Boba 4G carries! They are amazing. I love the little insert already in it. My son was a preemie and fit perfectly in it and was comfortable. It is also a life saver! When he doesn't wanna be put down, I throw my carrier on and do my daily chores. It's comfortable for me and baby. It is also wonderful how active I can be outside with my older children. I love it.
Anyone remember that post from a few weeks ago about how I was starting to appreciate the whole babywearing thing? And that I wanted a Boba carrier? Well THIS is THE one and I will admit that I will be totally jealous of whoever wins it! :)-GGWB
Boba is a company that produces top-of-the-line baby carriers and wraps. Started by a couple traveling the world with their two children, Boba has become an award-winning option for parents looking to wear their children.
Baby wearing has been around for centuries, but we have been learning more than ever about the benefits. For instance: Did you know that babies who are carried cry 43% less than babies who are not carried? Did you know that they sleep better, learn faster and are overall healthier than their non-worn peers?
The Boba Carrier 4G is unique for its ability to be used all throughout infancy, the early childhood years. It can be safely used from 7-45 lbs! To put that in perspective, most 5 year olds are around 45 pounds! Also, for you moms and dads who are a bit shorter or taller, this carrier comfortably fits heights from 5', all the way to 6'3". Wow!
You can use the Boba in a front carry, back carry, even while breastfeeding! Some of the unique features of the Boba include: a purse strap, footstraps, a hood, pockets(!), an infant insert, and the body of the carrier comes up 2-3" higher than most other carriers.
Looking for something even more versatile? Boba has something for that too! The Boba Wrap is a super affordable option at only $38. The wrap is perfect for newborns, up to children 18 months old. With many of the same benefits of the Boba 4G, this wrap comes in 8 different colors, so there is something that everyone can find to love.
GIVEAWAY
Sponsored By Boba /Hosted By It's Peachy Keen/co-hosted by Motherhood Community
You can win a Boba 4G carrier for yourself! You can choose the design even!! Open to U.S. Residents only. 18 and older. Ends February 15 midnight EST. Winner will have 24 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. Check back at It's Peachy Keen for the winner to be announced. Any questions regarding this giveaway or any other giveaway hosted by me. Email me at Itspeachykeen(at)live.com

KidsEmbrace Character Toddler & Booster Seat Giveaway

 

Welcome to the KidsEmbrace Character Toddler & Booster Seat Giveaway!
This giveaway is proudly hosted by Mommys Craft Obsession and generously sponsored by KidsEmbrace!

I haven't had to deal with this personally (yet, anyways), but I know many parents have had to suffer through their children not wanting to get in their car seats and throwing fits over it. I can definitely see these unique and fun car seats helping out in that department! I can see a lot of children being more than happy to get in the car when they see their favorite character on their own special seat!

Photo: KidsEmbrace

About the company:
(The following is taken directly from the KidsEmbrace Website and has been edited to fit our blog)

KidsEmbrace is set apart from their competitors by their people and their unequalled dedication to the product and service for our customers. The KidsEmbrace goal is to establish and maintain a lifetime relationship with their customers and to satisfy their needs by working closely with parents, reviewing their input, and delivering a product that is unmatched in safety, appearance, quality and comfort. KidsEmbrace also strives to involve the child with the parent in the selection process of the car seat by transforming their car seat into a seat they will be excited to use.
The KidsEmbrace design team represents over 60 years combined experience in manufacturing and engineering child safety equipment. Not only are the KidsEmbrace team designers and engineers, but they're parents too.

Their team includes engineers who have led development of the industry's most successful child safety seats and their chief engineer serves as a consultant to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Federal agency that sets standards for vehicle safety.  Not only are the KidsEmbrace Character Toddler & Booster Seats a fun product, they are also one of the safest seats available today, even featuring a 5-point harness design was developed in partnership with the European company Sabelt®, the race-tested supplier of safety harness systems to NASCAR® and Formula 1™ race teams.

In sudden stops or crashes, the KidsEmbrace seat controls forward movement of the child's head using our own patent-pending high-position top tether system, which allows the head support to rise and lower with the tether in place. The KidsEmbrace car seat offers side-impact protection and a deeper "wraparound" headrest design shields the sides of your child's face from flying glass in event of a collision.They pride themselves on the fact that no other child safety seat on the market has the same combination of features as this one. KidsEmbrace features the highest quality product, conceived by a veteran design team and engineered to NHTSA rigid crash test standards and our own rigorous KIDSEmbrace™ quality standards.
Toddler & Booster Seat Features & Specs: 

  • Harnessed Booster Weight Limit: 22-65 lbs.
  • Booster Car Seat Weight Limit: 30-100 lbs.
  • Extended Use Five-Point Harness
  • Easy to Install LATCH Connectors
  • One Hand Harness Tightner
  • Two-Position Crotch Strap
  • Built In Belt Guides
  • Two-Position Recline
  • Deep Seat
  • Wraparound Headrest
  • Side Impact Tested
  • High Density EPS Foam
  • Removeable and Machine Washable Cover
  • Three-Position Adjustable Headrest
  • Dual Cupholders
  • High Impact Thermoplastic Seat Shell
  • Patent Pending High Position Top Tether System 
Character Choices:


                 


To Purchase: You can purchase your KidsEmbrace Character Toddler & Booster Seat on the KidsEmbrace website for $129-$149 depending on the car seat, or at Babies R Us!

To Win: KidsEmbrace and Mommys Craft Obsession are giving away a Character Toddler & Booster Seat to one lucky winner! Winner may choose which car seat they'd like! *Limited to availability* Enter to win using the Giveaway Tools form below! This is a US Residents only giveaway!


The Giveaway will close late on the evening of February 5th. The winner will be chosen at random through  Giveaway Tools.  The winner will be announced both on Giveaway Tools form as well as notified by email and announced on MCO’s Facebook. The winner will have their prize sent to them by KidsEmbrace, Mommys Craft Obsession and participating bloggers are not responsible for prize shipment. Must be 18 years and older. Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google are in no way affiliated with this giveaway. No Purchase Necessary. US Only. This article is 100% original and in my own words. Everything written is from my own personal view point and opinions and I have not been influenced by any outside sources. What works for me, may not work for you. All photos have been taken by me unless stated otherwise. I have NOT been provided with product or compensation by KidsEmbrace. This disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.




30 Day Honey Challenge-Day 5

            Time for Day 5's super short update. I thought I would compare today's before pic with the pics from the first day. Is it working? What do you guys think?

Day 1

 Day 5

Mama Cloth

            I have to admit something: I hate the commercialism aspect of Christmas, but at the same time it's kind of a secret (until now) guilty pleasure of mine because I usually get gift cards from family members. I love getting gift cards because I can either use it to buy things we need or splurge some on things that I've wanted for awhile, but probably wouldn't buy for myself unless we had a lot of extra money. That brings me to today's post.
            I have been wanting to try some mama cloth forever, especially from Pink Lemonade Shop. I've researched quite a few companies that sell mama cloth and they seem to have the best looking quality for your buck. So, since I had some extra "cash", I finally bought some!
 9 inch pads

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

30 Day Honey Challenge-Day 4

 
            Welcome to Day 4 of the 30 Day Honey Challenge. How is it going for you so far? Today was another nutmeg day for me. I decided to add a little bit more this time. I'm still trying to find just the right amount of honey to use because it really doesn't take much at all. A lot less than you would think, anyways.
After pics from yesterday and today.
            I think slowly but surely the honey is starting to work it's magic. The nasties on my neck seem to be healing some (I spared you from having to look at those today. You're welcome.) and the redness of the ones on my face seem to be diminishing still. Hooray!
 

Monday, January 20, 2014

SmartKlean Laundry Kit Giveaway


SmartKlean was created in 2009 by a family who wanted to make a difference. SmartKlean is an internationally renowned brand which makes laundry care safer, enjoyable and more economical because for too many decades now a convention has taken place, which are wasteful, chemical-laden products. SmartKlean offers innovative alternatives to help others reduce their exposure to toxic chemicals and economize. 

Mami's 3 Little Monkeys reviewed SmartKlean's Wash Ball and Stain Stick. Read their review to see how it works on clothing, bedding and even safe and effective on cloth diapers! Plus, you could probably EXTEND the life of your cloth diapers and have to strip your diapers LESS often if you were to switch to this Wash Ball as there are no harsh chemicals, it uses a physical process instead of chemicals like laundry detergent. Read more here

Being a cloth diapering parent, it is so nice to see more and more cloth diaper friendly laundry solutions out there. If  it's good for my cloth diapers, that's great! If it's good for the rest of my clothes too, that's just an added bonus. ;)

Giveaway Details!
One winner will win a SmartKlean Wash Ball & Stain Stick, a $54.80ARV. 
Open to both US and Canadians whom are at least 18 years of age. 
Giveaway will run from January 20th at 12pm CST through February 3rd at 11:59pm CST. 
Winner's entries will be verified, winner will be notified via email and will have 48hrs to respond. 
For your chance to win, simply complete however many entries you wish in the Giveaway Tools entry form below. Good luck!


Disclosure: Getting Green with Baby has not been compensated for this publication, nor am I responsible for the fulfillment of the prize(s). Please contact Sarh at mamis3littlemonkeys(AT)yahoo(DOT)com if you have any questions, comments or concerns.

30 Day Honey Challenge-Day 3

 
            Hey folks. Here's my little update for day 3. So far I have noticed a small change on my face. It might just be in my head, but overall the redness of my acne seems to be diminishing some. The horrendousness on my neck is a different story. Other than the fact that I need to stop picking at it, I got to thinking yesterday that part of it may be from rubbing against my jacket all day. I have a green fleecey jacket that I pretty much live in. Funny that I never thought about it before.
            Today was a pure honey day, no nutmeg. I think I forgot to mention in the previous posts so far that I am leaving it on for about 10 minutes each day. The longer the better, right? Not that it makes any difference probably, but I've been doing this around the same time each morning just for good measure. Mostly, it helps me remember to do it! Plus I never get to take a shower at the same time each day. That's crazy talk!
            Instead of doing before and after pics today, I decided to just do the after. I had waited about an hour after I washed my face to take them so my face wasn't so red and, um, angry from scrubbing the honey off with a rag.

Egg Washing

            You may remember I promised a post on egg washing a week or so ago when I was talking about us getting chickens. Aside from the horrendous living conditions most commercial egg producers force their hens to live in, the U.S. also happens to be one of the few countries in the world that washes their eggs. Seems innocent enough, right?
            Instead of re-writing what's already been said before, here are two links to articles about egg washing that John came across in our chicken research.

Sunday, January 19, 2014

30 Day Honey Challenge-Day 2

 
            Welcome back! Today we're adding nutmeg to the mix! I'm going to strive to keep these updates as short as possible, so if you're just joining us for the first time, you can read what the 30 Day Honey Challenge is all about HERE.
            As I mentioned in the intro post, I'm going to be adding nutmeg every other day because it is said to be especially helpful for acne, which you'll see I have plenty of. :( (It's also used as a natural exfoliator.) I am interested to see if this will help decrease the redness most of all.
            You'll also see in the pictures that my jawline and neck are especially bad. Evidently my biggest problem, according to my husband, is that I pick at it while I'm really into reading something. To be honest, I don't even realize I'm doing it most of the time. I thought he was full of crap when he told me about the first time. It makes sense, though, as bad as it is. So, for the honey to hopefully work it's magic, I'm making a conscious effort to NOT pick at myself. Kind of defeats the purpose if I keep irritating my skin, huh?
            I'm not sure yet if I'll do this format for the pictures on every update, but let's see how it goes.
Before washing
 Left: Just a dash of nutmeg. Probably could have used a bit more. This was also slightly too much honey, but not by much.
Right: Honey face! (Btw, I've heard some people b!%ch that the only drawback of using honey on your face is that it gets melty when it's warm and starts running. Maybe I'm a cold, walking corpse and don't know it, but I haven't had this problem...at all. I say if you do, you probably don't have very good quality honey or you're putting WAY too much on! But that's just my opinion.
 About 5-10 minutes after I washed the honey off with a wet rag. I gave my face time to chill out from the scrubbing. I'm not expecting overnight results, although wouldn't that be nice? ;) Plus, with most skin care products, keep in mind your face is probably going to get worse before it gets better as the bad oils, toxins, nasty little dirt particles, etc. are pulled to the surface. 

Saturday, January 18, 2014

30 Day Honey Challenge-Intro

            Welcome to the 30 Day Honey Challenge! I don't know about you, but I'm pretty stubborn when it comes to a lot of things in life and am an "I'll believe it when I see it" type person. So, if you didn't get the memo already, the 30 Day Honey Challenge is about seeing if honey (in combination with nutmeg some days, but I'll get to that) really makes your face as spectacular as many people says it does. Why?

Thursday, January 16, 2014

Plasma Bike Giveaway

 
            Most toys that are awesome tend to cost in the hundreds to our kids now a days. Well PlasmaCar has many products that appeal to everyone's budget and child's age. The PlasmaBike for examples is great for ages 18+ months and holds up to 55lbs. I have a 5 year old and she does not weigh 55lbs. The PlasmaBike encourages balance, helps with coordination, and motor skills development. The PlasmaBike is also very light weight. When I got this big box sitting on my door step. I was like o, boy that looks heavy. I got my hulk mom muscles ready to pick it up and I fall backwards because it was light as a feather. I had an audience and my kids laughing at me. I was like so curious as to what was in this big box that hardly had any weight to it. Did a company send me a magazine packed in a huge box? I opened the box and was in shock that it was a PlasmaBike! It only weighs 7lbs.- Its Peachy Keen (Priscilla)

Maybe it's just me, but I've been finding it a little difficult to find fun, unique toys for my daughter now that she is a year old. It seems like most toys are geared towards little babies under a year old or 2 and up. So, I was super excited when I saw this plasma bike! She is still a few months too young to be using it, but I love that it helps with balance and coordination, so I'm definitely going to be looking to get one of these when she's older! -GGWB

This is my 5 y/o on it!
IMAG3837_1
Photo Credit- Its Peachy Keen
GIVEAWAY
Open to Us Residents, 18+ ENDS January 30 Midnight EST. Check back on It's Peachy Keen For the winner announcement post! This blog is not responsible for prize fulfillment. This blog also did not receive any compensation for this post. Any questions on any Giveaway/S Please email me at Itspeachykeen@live.com
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