Crunch Pak Sliced Apples Review & Giveaway (5 Winners)

 The kids are back to school and the means its mine to find some healthy lunch options.  I pack them lunch from home because I like to know what is going into their lunch boxes. One of the things I always include is fresh fruit. Apples are one of my kid's favorite fruits, but they always complain that the pieces have turned brown by the time they sit down to eat their lunch. Another issue I am going to have this year is that I am going to have a newborn right around the same time they are starting school. So who knows if I'll have time to slice apples in the morning. Thanks to Crunch Pak, I won't have to worry about slicing or browning because their prepackaged apple slices are guaranteed fresh every time and come in packages with Disney characters my kids will love.

For our review, we received a variety of yummy Crunch Paks to try out, and my kids absolutely loved them. We tried both the small and large bags of apple slices as well as the new Mickey Mouse Foodles which are shaped combo packs.  Every apple was crispy and delicious without one spot of brown on them.  The Mickey Foodles packages were definitely our favorite products and a stand alone lunch or a great after school snack all on their own. They come with cheese, pretzels, caramel dips, raisins, or grapes, each separated in Mickey's ears. They are a fun and unique way to get your kids to eat and enjoy their fresh fruit.

In addition to the Mickey Foodles, Snack Pak also features other fun characters including Cars and Phineas and Ferb. Stay tuned for the fall when they will also be introducing some Disney Princess packaging. To learn more about this great company and all they have to offer, you can visit their website. There you can find a location near you that sells these amazing products. Also be sure to check out their face book page.

 I have two free product coupons to give away to five lucky reader so they can try out Crunch Pal for themselves. To enter, just complete the Rafflecopter form below.  Giveaway ends 10/11/2012 and is open to the US only. The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. Thanks again to Crunch Pak for offering this great prize.

 a Rafflecopter giveaway


***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way.  Please note that I  am not responsible for the delivery of this prize and can not be held accountable if, for any reason, is it not received. Furthermore, I am in no way liable for any injuries that may result from the use or misuse of this product. ***

Back to School Supplies from Leapfrog, Scribble Stuff, Roseart, and Board Dudes

Event though school started a few weeks ago, I still find myself shopping for supplies. RoseArt, LeapFrog and Board Dudes supplies are a great option when you have school projects to get done. All of these brands have an extensive amount of creative school supplies and specials for parents on a budget.

A few back to school supplies to consider include:

LeapFrogLeapFrog makes the jump from electronics into paper based learning aids to support reading, writing and math skills from kindergarten to fourth grade. This new line of learning products includes creative and dry erase workbooks, flash cards, writing pads, pencils and more. LeapFrog's dedicated in-house Learning Team of PhDs and educators worked closely on these products to ensure that the content is current with educational trends and aligns with the latest child development research. The products feature original LeapFrog characters Leap, Tad and Lily as well as the cast of LeapSchool. Price: $1.99-$7.99

Our Thoughts on Leapfrog:

 I have several children, including a preschooler, and this year I am concentrating on giving her a head start. Leap Frog has tons of products to help me along the way. With the their flash cards, we are able to start working on sight words. They also have some wonderful dry erase books and boards so kids can practice their letters and numbers without creating unnecessary waste. The adorable Leap Frog characters entice children to start learning and encourage them every step  of the way.

 

Scribble StuffPencil cases get an injection of personality this school year with Scribble Stuff, a brand new line of fun writing materials. Regular and mechanical pencils, novelty erasers and decorative pencil sharpeners come in expressive styles like sports, military, flowers, glitter, hearts, bugs and owls. Novelty Puzzle Erasers packs look like tasty treats: sushi, junk food and desserts, and the Wiggle Erasers feature unique animal-inspired designs with jointed legs that really move! Price: $1.49-$2.99


Combo packs- http://www.boarddudes.com/Scribble-Stuff-Pencil-Value-Pack--Girl-Theme_p_790.html 
Food inspired erasers- http://www.boarddudes.com/Scribble-Stuff-Puzzle-Erasers-6-PK_p_786.html 
Wiggle Erasers- http://www.boarddudes.com/Scribble-Stuff-Wiggle-Erasers-4-PK_p_787.html 

 

RoseArtRoseArt’s got back to school lists at family friendly prices. Moms can stock up on quality classroom essentials like crayons, markers, paint and glue at great value prices so they can indulge in extras to keep at home to encourage crafts and creativity. Prices: Vary

www.roseart.com





 Our Thought on Roseart

We also received a few of the wonderful products from Roseart. I have always loved this company and remember buying their things when I was in school myself. The quality has not dwindled over the years. They offer some of the most affordable crayons and markers on the market in all shapes and sizes. They are just the right size for pudgy fingers, and they are the only crayons my little one hasn't managed to break. The markers are long lasting and the colors are bright. These are art supplies the whole family will appreciate.

Board DudesA new school year means keeping on top of new extra-curricular activity schedules, permission slips, field trips and so much more. The Board Dudes line of well-designed magnetic dry erase, cork and combo boards help families juggle it all without compromising on style. Their tile style boards can be combined to create a unique arrangement to suit families’ individual needs. 
Price: $8.49-$27.99

Color tiles- http://www.boarddudes.com/Magnetic-Dry-Erase-Tile-Board_p_552.html 
Weekly planner- http://www.boarddudes.com/Magnetic-Dry-Erase-Weekly-Planner_p_568.html 
Combo weekly planner- http://www.boarddudes.com/Magnetic-Dry-EraseCork-Weekly-Planner_p_589.html



***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way. ***

Creativity for Kids In Home Party!

Art is a big part of my family's lives. We all play instruments, we like write stories, and we love to draw, paint and craft. Anyone with artistic ingenuity and who has children knows the best place to shop for arts and crafts is Creativity For Kids. They have some of the most original and exciting crafts for children at prices that won't put a cramp in your artistic style. They have dozens of options that will appeal to boys and girls of all ages.

This year, we got to have a little extra fun with Creativity for Kids because my family was chosen to host an in home party! It coincided perfectly with my daughter's twelfth birthday and despite delays due to tropical storms and summer colds, when we were finally able to host our party this weekend, it was a day to remember. The girls loved creating their own E-Z Spray Tye dye bandanas and bottle cap necklaces, not to mention some awesome carry bags to bring home all their new treasures home.

The first thing we did were the bandanas, and I have to say, you might want to try to do this one outside, because it does get messy. It took me hours to clean the sink and counter once we were done. Of course, a lot of the mess had to do  more with bad aim then the product itself, so I guess it all depends on how well your kids can follow directions. Making the bandanas required mixing the dye with water and then spritzing the cloth. It only takes a few minutes,and after they dry, you'll have an adorable accessory just perfect for back to school.

The bottle cap necklaces were by far the biggest hit with the girls. There were tons of different color strings, pendants, beads and stickers. Some of the stickers were ready made and some could be colored with markers to make them really personal. After adding the stickers to the base, a clear topper magnifies the design and gives it a really professional look.

All the Creativity For Kids products are available online, but you can also check for a location near you that sells them.  For more grown up art products, check out Faber Castell where you can find paint and brushes, colored pencils, canvases, charcoal and more. They are also a great place to stock up on all your art supplies for the new school year.  Become a fan of Creativity for Kids on face book to keep up with new products and promotions.


***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way. ***

Back to School Must Have - Hoodie Pet Review & Giveaway

Its time to head back to school. Soon the days will be getting cooler, and we'll want to bundle up our kids in warm and cozy fleece. The only problem is, that some little ones don't like being covered up. My two younger children would run around naked all year if they could. Its always a struggle to get them dressed. Luckily, Hoodie Pets has found a way to make it fun for kids to get dressed and ready for the fall. Hoodie Pets are adorable fleece hoodies that come with their own detachable stuffed animal.

For our review, Willow picked out the tiger Hoodie Pet. It is made from the softest black fleece that I know will keep my daughter warm on all of our fall outings. You will notice right away that there's something special about this sweatshirt. There is an adorable stuffed tiger attached to the front of the shirt. It is easy to detach for cleaning or if your kids decide they want to play with it. Yet the Velcro holds it firmly in place no matter how much kids run and play. My daughter loved her hoodie. She wants to wear it all the time, and she would even sleep in it if I let her.

The tiger is only one example of the adorable Hoodie Pets available. Choose from dogs, bears, bunnies, zebras and more in a variety of fashionable colors and sizes. Prices range from around $29.99 to $32.99. If you would like to get an adorable Hoodie Pet, they are available on their website. While you're visiting, be sure to let your kids check out some of the fun and free activities. With kids heading back to school this week, a Hoodie Pet is the perfect way to spice up your child's wardrobe for the new school year.

One lucky winner is going to receive Hoodie Pet in the size and style of their choice. To enter, just fill in the Rafflecopter form below. This giveaway will end on 9/17/12. The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. Thanks again to Hoodie Pets for offering this fantastic prize.


 a Rafflecopter giveaway



***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way.  Please note that I  am not responsible for the delivery of this prize and can not be held accountable if, for any reason, is it not received. Furthermore, I am in no way liable for any injuries that may result from the use or misuse of this product. ***

Back to School Must Have - Sterling Silver Guardian Angel Pendant Review & Giveaway

 By now, everyone knows I love just about anything that has my kid's faces on it. I have a whole collection of personalized items. Willow thinks she is a celebrity because her face is on everything from my mouse pad to her nightlight.  I am always looking for new ways to grow this collection, and at PicturesOnGold, I found the most beautiful and ornate personalized  photo jewelry I have seen  to date. The idea of a photo locket has been around for quite a while, but PicturesOnGold has taken this concept into the 21st century. They actually take your favorite photos and using advanced laser technology, engrave the pictures onto gold and sterling silver lockets. But that is only the  beginning of what they have to offer that are perfect for back to school, including their Back to School Guardian Angel Pin.

 With the new school starting in only a few weeks, Pictures on Gold has something extra special to offer. As mothers, we all feel anxiety about letting our children go off into the world without us. Whether they are heading to kindergarten or college, you can give yourself a little extra security with the beautiful Guardian Angel pendants available from Pictures on Gold. This stunning pendant features the divine form of an angel watching over a little girl and the back is engraved with the words, "Please Protect my Child". This stunning accessory is available in both gold and silver.

In addition to the back to school jewelry, PicturesOnGold can use just about any photo to create their customized pieces.They also offer posh mommy necklaces, religious jewelry, stylish medical ID jewelry, graduations jewelry and so much more.  To learn more about this company and all the fantastic accessories they offer, be sure to visit their website. You can also follow them on face book or twitter.   Shipping is quick, especially considering the items are each made to order, and prices are more than reasonable.  The jewelry arrives in a beautiful velvet lined box suitable for gift giving. If you are looking for a unique gift this back to school season, one of the guardian angel pendants would be the perfect choice. I know this pendant will protect my child while in school.

 One lucky winner is going to receive a a beautiful Sterling Silver Guardian Angel "School Protect" Double Sided Medal "Color EXCLUSIVE", along with an 16 inch Sterling Silver Box Chain . To enter, just fill in the Rafflecopter form below. This giveaway will end on 9/13/12. The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. Thanks again to PicturesOnGold for offering this fantastic prize.

 a Rafflecopter giveaway


***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way.  Please note that I  am not responsible for the delivery of this prize and can not be held accountable if, for any reason, is it not received. Furthermore, I am in no way liable for any injuries that may result from the use or misuse of this product. ***

Back to School Must Have - Soft Star Shoes

I love shoes. I probably have a hundred pairs in my closet and I'm not much better when it comes to my kids. I like having a pair of shoes that matches every outfit perfectly. So of course I fell in love with the adorable soft sole selections available from Soft Star Shoes. Each pair of their shoes are custom made from real leather so kids get the perfect fit every time. The final results are not only adorable but also high quality and stylish.  You can select from multiple options for both boys and girls as well as different, colorful styles suitable for all seasons.

 For our review, we received a beautiful pair of soft sole sandals for Willow. To say that I love these shoes would be an understatement. They are the cutest things I have ever seen. They are made from real leather so they are well made and durable. I love the bright purple color and the adorable daisy design on the sides. They are stretchy enough that I know I will get plenty of use out of them even with Willow's growing toes. They are also easy to slip onto your baby or toddler's feet and they stay firmly in place no matter how the child  kicks. Since each pair is hand stitched, you are guaranteed quality, yet the prices are still affordable.

The sandals are only one example of the beautiful and fashionable shoes you can find at Soft Star Shoes. They also have boots, moccasins, slippers and more.  Sizes range from baby to adult options, so these fun and fashionable accessories are the perfect way for kids and adults to start off the new school year.  To learn more about Soft Star Shoes and the fun styles they offer, you can visit their website. To keep up with future promotions, be sure to follow them on twitter or face book.  If your child needs new shoes for the school year, consider getting a pair of long lasting Soft Star Shoes, and let your children start walking in comfort and style. 

 

 

 

  ***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way. ***

Back to School Must Have - iPlay Raincoat & Training Pants Review & Giveaway

I love companies that offer unique and adorable baby items. I can't get enough cuddly toys, soft blankets, and adorable little outfits. I think every  mom feels that way. One of the best online shops I have found for the most unique baby clothes & accessories is i play. They have a huge selection of organic clothing and gifts for boys and girls that every mom and mom-to-be is sure to love. Now with the back to school/daycare season on the horizon, they also offer some adorable raincoats and training pants to send your kids back to school in style.

For our review, we received two wonderful items. The first is the iplay raincoat. They come in four colors including pink, blue, green, and yellow. They are the perfect way to get to school on stormy fall mornings and still stay dry. The insulated material will keep your kids warm but still protect them from even the worst mother nature has to offer. You can grab one for your child for the affordable price of only $22.

Another great item at iplay are their reusable training pants. My daughter, Willow, in the the midst of potty training,and these pants are making all the difference. They are a lot less bulky than diapers but still provide protection from embarrassing accidents.  To her, they look and feel like real underwear, and she feels like a big girl wearing them. We have come a long way in just a few weeks with her training since these adorable training pants arrived. And best of all, they are also good for the environment because you can reuse them and create less waste.

In addition to the items I reviewed, i play also tons of beautiful layette items that would make wonderful shower gifts including gowns, blankets, booties, gift sets and so much more.  If your kids want to make a fashion statement this back to school season, they can't go wrong with i play. 

One lucky winner is going to receive an i play raincoat and training pants in the size and style of their choice! To enter, just fill in the Rafflecopter form below. This giveaway will end on 9/10/12. Open to the US only. The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. Thanks again to i play for offering this fantastic prize.


 a Rafflecopter giveaway



 ***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way.  Please note that I  am not responsible for the delivery of this prize and can not be held accountable if, for any reason, is it not received. Furthermore, I am in no way liable for any injuries that may result from the use or misuse of this product. ***

Back to School Must Have - Pedipeds Shoes for Fall & Winter

 When it comes to shoes for baby, toddles, and kids, there is one company I always turn to first for the best in fashion and durability. That company is Pediped. With the turn of the seasons, it was time to look for new shoes for my daughter, and of course I went to visit Pediped first. Their new line offers all you need to complete any fall or winter look whether you have boys, girls or both. They have a wide selection to choose from fall winter, boots, mary janes, athletic styles and the new athletic line and cold weather boots.

Pediped shoes are unique for many reasons. First, their are a much higher quality than shoes you can find in most department stores. I had of white ones that my baby wore almost every day since for a year, and they were still in perfect condition when I handed them down to a friend. Then there are the styles.  The soles are thick so they are long lasting,  and they are designed to fit growing toes so yuo can get lots of use out of them. They have dozens of options, and each is better than the next.  But the most important feature is how comfortable they are. My baby doesn't even notice he has them on most of the time. And they never fall off!

In addition to their shoes, Pediped also have a nice selection of tights and socks and hair clips. They are really a one-stop shop for all your child's accessory needs. They even have gift cards which would make a great gift for birthdays and Christmas. While you're visiting, make to to enter their sweepstakes for a chance to win a trip to London.

Right now i a great time to shop. You can receive free shipping on orders of $75 or more by entering the code 75ship at checkout. To keep up with the latest sales and promos, follow Pediped on twitter or become their fan on Face Book.  You can also sign up for their newsletter.  You should also check out Kinderbliss, their sister company for lots of adorable children's clothing. However you do it, this is a company you'll want to visit often if you have any little ones. You won't find quality shoes with so many adorable styles to choose from anywhere else.



 ***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way. ***

Back to School Must Have - Gluten Free Treats from Butterfly Bakery Review & Giveaway

Everyone kids loves cookies in their lunchbox and muffins for breakfast, but I am way too lazy...urr I mean busy...to bake them myself.  But most of the ones on the store shelf are loaded with trans fat and other artificial ingredients that I don't want to be a part of my children's diet.  So what's my solution? The Butterfly Bakery! These delicious treats are nut free, lactose free, and dairy free so you know they are made with only the best stuff. As an added bonus, they are also gluten free so even little ones with allergies can finally get some great tasting cookies in a variety of fun flavors.

We were lucky enough to get to try out The Butterfly Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies and Blueberry Muffins were a big hit in my house! The box just arrived a few days ago, and already my family has polished them off. Most gluten free foods taste like card board, but these were really tasty. But they also aren't disgustingly sweet like some regular cookies can be. The  cookies were crispy and fresh , just the way I like them. The muffins were moist and practically melted in my mouth, All in all, a great bakery experience and I know we'll be ordering from this company again.

If you would like to learn more about The Butterfly Bakery and all they have to offer, you can visit their website. In addition to the items I reviewed, they also offer cupcakes, birthday cakes, corn muffins, brownies and more. You can order their tasty cookies directly from their website, or look for a location near you.  With school starting soon, these are a great snack to have on hand for school lunches. They are a healthy alternative to other cookies that both kids and parents are going to love. So check out The Butterfly Bakery today and send your kids back to school with a treat you can be proud of.

One very lucky winner is going to receive the two Butterfly Bakery products valued between $25-30  to try for themselves!  To enter, just fill in the Rafflecopter form below. Giveaway is open to the US only and will end on 9/3/12.  Thanks again to The Butterfly Bakery for offering this fantastic prize.


 a Rafflecopter giveaway



 ***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way. Please note that I am not responsible for the delivery of this prize and can not be held accountable if, for any reason, is it not received. Furthermore, I am in no way liable for any injuries that may result from the use or misuse of this product. ***

Back to School Must Have - Activity Books from Candlewick Review & Giveaway

 Kids tend to get a little lazy in the summer months when school is out. Now that its almost time to head back to school, I am trying to get my kids back in shape. My daughter will read just about anything, but my son is a little harder to encourage. Luckily, Candlewick Press has books that appeal to kids of all ages and reading levels. They make reading fun with scary real life adventures, magic illusions, and reading games that encourage kids to read without them even realizing they're learning something. Here are just a few of the books that my kids love.

The Scary Places Map Book

Seven Terrifying Tours

By B.G. Hennessy, Illustrated by Erwin Madrid

Grab a flashlight for an after-dark exploration of seven very scary places. Giggles and goose bumps are in store!

July 2012, ISBN: 9780763645410, $15.99 (Hardcover), Ages 5 to 9, 32 Pages

 Our Thoughts

The Scary Places Map Book takes kids all around the globe to visit some of the most popular spooky figures in literary fiction. Visit Frankenstein's castle for go for a ride on a ghost ship.  Even explore real life mysteries like the Bermuda triangle.

Illusionology

The Secret Science of Magic

By Albert Schafer, Edited by Emily Hawkins

Can you trust your eyes? The newest discovery in the 'Ology series amazes and thrills as the closely guarded secrets of the illusionologists are revealed!

“Handsome addition to the Ologies series.” – Publisher’s Weekly

March 2012, ISBN: 9780763655884, $19.99 (Hardcover), Ages 8 and Up, 32 Pa

Our Thoughts

 This book was my son's favorite. It teaches them all the secrets of magicians. Learn card tricks with cards that actually detach from the book, read about the life of Houdini, and see how easy it is for illusions to play tricks on your mind. This is a very exciting and interactive book!

StoryWorld: Quests and Adventures

Create-A-Story Kit

By John and Caitlin Matthews

Tell daring tales of adventure with this exciting new create-a-story pack.

February 2012, ISBN: 9780763653170, $9.99 (Novelty), Ages 9 to 12, 28 Pages

Our Thoughts

Story World is a great idea. It turns reading into a game and makes it fun and interactive. As you choose different story cards, you change the path the characters will take. This makes for dozens of different possibilities so it never gets sold.

 
One lucky winner is going to receive all three of wonderful book listed above. To enter, just fill in the Rafflecopter form below.  This giveaway will end on 8/27/12. Open to the US & Canada only. The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. Thanks again to Candlewick Press for offering this fantastic prize.

a Rafflecopter giveaway



***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way.  Please note that I  am not responsible for the delivery of this prize and can not be held accountable if, for any reason, is it not received. Furthermore, I am in no way liable for any injuries that may result from the use or misuse of this product. ***