Mom Loves Today

Mom Loves Giveaways - Notable Newness

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 21:27:00 +0000

Around the blogsphere:

Step 2 Kitchen from @growingyourbaby http://bit.ly/sYwvo Ends 11/11 ($99 value)
Dora Toy Bin Organizer from The Mommy Journey http://www.mommyjourney.com/2009/11/dora-explorer-toy-organizer-giveaway.html Ends Nov 15
Snazzy baby from A Island Life http://bit.ly/2caTTp Ends 11/12

Currently at Two Of A Kind, Working on a full house:

Leap Frog Text & Learn http://bit.ly/bIsK7 Ends 12/2
Oreck Halo Vaccuum ($600 value) http://bit.ly/3KumWv Ends 11/25
Dremel 4000 Rotary Tool http://bit.ly/3pdb2R Ends 11/25
Kolcraft Contours Tandem Double Stroller ($249.99 value) http://bit.ly/4kNaqL Ends 11/25
Step 2 Grand Walk-In Kitchen ($249 Value) http://bit.ly/4CvjDD Ends 11/25

Mom Loves Parties- Party planning tips {Guest Blogger}

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 05:53:00 +0000

Parties can be stressful, but thanks to these tips my son's 1st Birthday party this past weekend was much more enjoyable! Give a warm welcome to our guest blogger, Candi, and please consider some of her advice when you plan your next party .

Here are a few tips we find helpful when planning a child's birthday.

Planning and throwing your child’s birthday party should be fun, but it often feels like another time-consuming, stressful thing on your “to do” list. Put the “festive” back into the festivities with the following tips:

Keep it simple. Your child won’t care if there are elaborate decorations, or a meticulously thought out menu. He just wants to have fun.
Get some help. Many parents get overwhelmed trying to do it all themselves. If your father-in-law is artistic, ask him to make the invitations. If your sister is a great baker, put her in charge of the cake. Consider hiring someone to entertain the kids, run the games or clean your house pre- and post-party.
Ask for your child’s input. Before you start planning, get your child’s opinion. Even young children enjoy a trip to the party store to choose between Elmo and Thomas the Train plates. My kids love to browse through party catalogues to choose a few special things for their party.
Keep it manageable. Instead of inviting your son’s entire first grade class (27 kids - can you imagine?), suggest that he invite his two or three favorite friends to do something special, like going bowling and out for pizza. Likewise, don’t feel like you have to invite all of his school friends, neighborhood friends, cousins and so forth. Chances are, it will be overwhelming for him - and for you!
Don’t plan too much. It’s great to have a few ideas for games, crafts or other activities, but there’s no need to schedule a ton of different activities.
But do have a “back up plan”. It’s smart to have a few extra crafts or games in mind, just in case the kids seem bored. Musical chairs is fun for all ages, a dance party is an easy, enjoyable activity, and younger kids would probably love a few stories.
Have a set “end time” and a friendly way of ushering people out the door.

Remember, the birthday party should be a celebration of your child, not an elaborate affair. Keep it simple and you’ll all have a great time.

About our guest blogger:
My name is Candi Wingate and founder I am of Nannies4hire.com, Care4hire.com and a Nanny Agency. My nanny experience actually goes way back. I was a nanny for a family with 5 children, which included newborn twins. After becoming a nanny and working in a nanny agency for several years, I purchased the successful Nation-Wide Nanny Placement Agency. After finding that we needed to expand, Nannies4hire.com and Care4hire.com was born. Care4hire.com is an online database for families and caregivers to search babysitters, housekeepers, tutors, elder/companion care, pet sitters and other miscellaneous service. A free preview of available caregivers is available to families. Whether you need a caregiver for a few hours to a few days, you will find it at Care4hire.com. Besides relationships with Dr. Phil, Supernanny, TLC, Inc. 500, receiving the Mom's Choice Award and a Finalist for the Stevie Award, we have been helping wonderful families and caregivers since 1987.

Follow Candi on Twitter @Nannies4Hire & @Care4Hire - Subscribe to her Blog

Mom Loves Christmas - Disney's A Christmas Carol IMAX Giveaway

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 05:08:00 +0000

To celebrate the release of Disney's A Christmas Carol in IMAX 3D, IMAX is giving away prizes all this week on their facebook page!

It's a great prize pack including one Disney's A Christmas Carol movie poster and one movie story book!

Want a chance to win one RIGHT HERE?

Go HERE: http://www.facebook.com/IMAX
Click 'Become a Fan'
Then leave a comment below with your facebook link to verify!

GOOD LUCK!

This contest ends NOVEMBER 11th, 2009 at 11:59PM and is brought to you by IMAX and @ResourcefulMom. I was not paid or given anything to blog about this giveaway. Although I DID win a poster/story book prize from the twitter party that was held by @resourcefulmom and @imax just by pure coincidence/luck.

Mom Loves Giveaways - Glade giveaway at Bored Mommy (CAN Only)

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 04:14:00 +0000

Attention Canadian readers!

Bored Mommy has a great Glade Set the Scene Prize Pack giveaway going on right now! 3 winners will get: two bottles of Copper Moon wine (one white/one red), 2 Reed Diffusers, 2 Mini Soy Candles, 2 Large Multi-wick Candles AND a $25 gift card to Chapters! WOO! Awesome Prize!

Open to Canada residents only!
Ends 11/9 so hurry and enter!
Visit her to enter at: http://bit.ly/3dh6vl

Mom Loves Safety - Car seat safety

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 18:12:00 +0000

Just buying a car seat doesn't protect your child. In fact, 3 out of 4 car seats are not used correctly. Making safe choices about what car seat to buy, how to install it properly in your vehicle and how to use your car seat properly is key to safety. One of the easiest things we can do for our children is protect them while transporting them. It doesn't matter whether you are going one minute or one hour, buckling up your children every trip, every time, could save your child's life.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers many resources to help you ensure you are making the safest choices when it comes to your precious 'cargo.'

Find them on Twitter: Tweet an actual safety expert on the @ChildSeatSafety account on Twitter. They will answer any questions that parents have about child passenger safety. This is such a unique resource from a government agency!

Find them on Facebook: NHTSA has a Facebook page at http://facebook.com/childpassengersafety where parents can learn about everything from LATCH to locating inspection offices. Get the latest news and more!

See their website: The Ad Council and the NHTSA have created a site with all the resources parents need to keep their smallest passengers safe: http://childcarsafety.adcouncil.org/ Find your local inspection station, watch instructional videos, and even take a fun quiz!

*This post was not compensated in any way.

Mom Loves Halloween - Trick or Treat Gifts

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 06:37:00 +0000

You know that old saying, "It was as easy as taking candy from a baby?" Well these Halloween gifts are way easier (and better) than GIVING candy to a baby!

MyPacifier.com, the original personalized pacifier has some darling 'BOO' designs created just for Halloween. Or accessorize your little one with a cute little pirate skull paci! Check them both out, as well as all their designs at www.mypacifier.com

A great accessory for Halloween are these great Calliope Boutique tennis shoes and mary janes are just 'boo-tiful!'. Each one is individually hand-painted and adorable! They have glow in the dark eyes, elastic no tie laces, and are pre-treated for children. Non-toxic acrylic craft paint and a textile medium ensures extra-long life and the shoes are even machine washable!!! They come in infant and toddlers sizes 1-10. For all their styles and tons of other cute gifts check them out at http://www.calliopeboutique.com!

CCC Gifts has adorable custom clothing and gifts! A great selection and all can be personalized with your child's name. Just pick the design you like and then pick what type of clothing you want it on. From different types of t's to toddler A-line dresses, you are sure to find something you like. They also carry cute little baby tote sets. Complete with tote, long sleeve body suit, and bib, these wonderful gifts can even be gift wrapped for a small fee to make giving even easier! Check out their selection at http://www.cccgifts.com.

Prissy Poofs specializes in beautiful gifts for little girls and their line of Spooky Poofs (tutu's) would be a perfect Halloween treat for your little princesses! Witches, Lady Bugs, Kittens, Lions, there is sure to be a style you love! To see Spooky Poofs and all their collections please visit http://www.prissypoofs.com

Mom Loves Halloween - Simply Spray fabric paint

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 05:36:00 +0000

From the company:

Create Halloween Horrors with New Fake Spray Blood
Fabric Spray Paints Offer a Low-Cost Costume and Décor Solution

Warwick, RI (September 2009) – Halloween favorites, from blood-thirsty vampires and ghoulish decorations to lovable ladybugs, can easily be created this year with Simply Spray®, the only non-toxic, non-flammable aerosol fabric spray paints. Launching nationwide this fall, Spray Blood is the newest Halloween tool from Simply Spray, which also offers a line of Soft Fabric Paint in 19 colors for simple do-it-yourself costumes and décor.

Spray Blood allows users to create realistic-looking bullet holes, dripping blood lines and blood splatter effects on fabrics, plastic, glass and rubber. The paint provides an inexpensive (MSRP $5.99/can) and simple technique to add fake blood to horror-film inspired costumes like vampires and villains and to create gory table-scapes and Halloween decor. The fake Spray Blood comes in a nitrogen-propelled can and emits virtually no fumes so it is safe and eco-friendly. Five-minute costume ideas include using Spray Blood to create:

Hospital scrubs into post-operating room surgeons
Rolls of gauze into bloody mummies
Crisp white aprons into messy butchers
Swimsuits and foam boogie boards into shark attack victims

Simply Spray Soft Fabric Paint is also non-toxic and safe for children. With an expansive color selection, the soft fabric spray provides simple solutions to add and change the color of costume pieces or to create a costume with stencil, pattern or free-hand designs. Popular Halloween colors Brite Orange, Black and Green Apple can be used for Halloween-themed tie-dye or to create custom trick-or-treat bags and decorations with designs such as spiders, ghosts and jack-o-lanterns. Costume ideas include transforming:

White angel wings into pink fairy, black gothic or red devil wings
Tights, gloves and canvas shoes into colorful accessories for superheroes, fruit and veggie characters, animals and cartoon personalities
Old t-shirts and bell-bottom jeans into tie-dyed peace-loving hippie clothes

“Halloween enthusiasts love how realistic the fake Spray Blood looks and how easy it is to use. There’s nothing else out on the market to create this effect in a non-toxic spray paint formula,” said David Reizian, founder and inventor of Simply Spray fabric paints. “The Soft Fabric Paints are used for apparel and home projects throughout the year and are a natural to create inexpensive but colorful and creative costumes.”

Spray Blood and Soft Fabric Paint stay soft to the touch, a drastic difference from traditional spray paints that harden and stiffen soft fabrics such as cotton. All Simply Spray fabric paints are non-toxic and non-flammable, making indoor projects safe and convenient. Unlike

traditional aerosol spray paints, Simply Spray paints are nitrogen propelled and completely eco-friendly. The water-based paints will not harm the environment when discarded, unlike most dyes and aerosols.

Soft Fabric Paint is available in 19 colors (MSRP $4.99/can). Spray Blood (MSRP $5.99/can) is available at Walgreens, Wal-Mart, Jo-Ann Stores, Michaels, A.C. Moore, iParty, participating Party City Stores and online at www.spraypaint4fabric.com. Made in the USA. For product demo videos and project ideas visit www.simplyspray.com.

About Simply Spray
Deval Products, LLC, manufactures Simply Spray, the only non-toxic, non-flammable, odorless aerosol fabric paint. The Simply Spray product line includes Soft Fabric Paint and Stencil Paint sold at Jo-Ann Stores, Michaels, A.C. Moore and Hobby Lobby and Upholstery Paint, Paint It Black and Spray Blood available online. Based in Warwick, RI, Simply Spray prides itself on creating environmentally friendly paints; all products are made in the United States. For more information, please visit www.simplyspray.com

_____________________

What Mom has to say:

Although I have not tried this product, half the mess and half the time is the impression I am getting from their site. If you need to dye or paint something on fabric easy, this looks like an awesome way! They have different types of spray for different jobs. Upholstery, puff paint, and what I thought was really cool was they have their own type of spray on blood!

Need to make a murder scene or zombie costume for Halloween? This may be a fast and realistic looking alternative. Not to be used on skin, but they claim it looks good on fabric, rubber, plastic and glass. They even have a guide on the product page for getting it to look like a bullet hole, blood spatter and dripping!

Their paints are also recommended for Halloween crafts with the kids. They would be a great for Halloween themed tie-dyes, custom trick-or-treat bags, decorations and more! Check out their seasonal gallery to see some of those ideas visualized!

*I did not receive a sample or compensation for this post.

Mom Loves Domestic Tips - How to get rid of fruit flies

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 07:53:00 +0000

I'm sure almost all of us has experienced a fruit fly explosion in our kitchens at least once. They are horrible to get rid of, despite a spotless kitchen.

Tara at Feels like Home has written a wonderful post on how she fought a recent battle with them. Check it out and find out if she won! www.feelslikehomeblog.com

Moving {without losing my mind} Is it possible?

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 02:00:00 +0000

This weekend is going to be full of stress, lots and lots of hard work, and trying to put my home back together in a reasonable amount of time.

Saturday is going to be so busy! This is our current itinerary:

Get up by 9am and get going.
Helpers (aka friends) arrive 10am.
Have first loaded up and on the road no later the 11am.
Hopefully have another 2-3 loads by 2pm.
Someone at the apartment from 2-5pm for the cable guy.
Have someone at old place by 5pm to meet movers.

Those are just the things I can think of at this moment, not to mention the unmentionable amount of packing left!

Do you have tips on how to simplify my up coming move?
I would love if you could share them!

Mom Loves Giveaways - Notable Newness

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 05:31:00 +0000

What’s Cooking at DD is giving away a copy of the latest VeggieTales DVD – Saint Nicholas: A Story of Joyful Giving. 3 Winners. Ends 10/20

Look no hands! @BabiesGottaHavT is giving away a Bebe Bottle Sling! Got twins? Check it out!http://tinyurl.com/ycjzm44. Ends 10/20

Packing a lunch? Check out this Sandwich and Snack Baggie giveaway from @bellsnunicorns! http://www.bellsandunicorns.blogspot.com/. Ends 10/21

Beautiful Lunar Belle earrings giveaway http://alteredbeauty.blogspot.com/2009/10/fridays-featured-seller-and-giveaway_15.html. Ends 10/22

Mimi's Babies is giving away a set of 3 hand knit dishcloths

http://mimisbabiesgifts.blogspot.com/2009/10/giveaway-mimis-favorite-hand-knit.html. Ends 10/22

Halloween has come to Cloverleaf Corners. Win a set of Costume Critters from Calico Critters @BabiesGottaHavT http://tinyurl.com/yktgje5 Ends 10/23

Budget Bella - Win The Budget Kit Book http://www.budgetbella.blogspot.com/ Ends 10/23

Ecostore USA is coming to Duane Reade Pharmacies! No Nasty Chemicals! Win a $25 gift certificate @BabiesGottaHavT http://tinyurl.com/ygtkaln Ends 11/2

Mom Loves Giveaways - Ion Stroller

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 04:20:00 +0000

My Sentiment Exactlee has a great giveaway right now for those of you looking for an awesome stroller.

CLICK HERE to enter to win your own Valco Baby Ion Stroller. Ends Nov 3rd.

Introducing MLT's Newest Mom, Bobbi Janay, The Mom is Magic

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 03:15:00 +0000

Bobbi Janay Gregory is a native Texan, who grew up in a small town. She now resides in Dallas, Texas with her husband Casey, son Ian, and faithful furry friend FootFoot.

From decorating, to cleaning, aspiring to be more 'green', and cooking; Bobbi Janay harbors a love for all things home related. After growing up in a room with no closet, she discovered at an early age how to make the most of the little space she had. She was lucky to have supportive parents, that let her love of decorating flourish.

Bobbi Janay's friends were always taken aback and impressed with the decorating feats she accomplished in her room. Now as an adult, they say the same about her home.

Dedicated to making her home warm and inviting for not only her family, but their guests, Bobbi Janay works hard at making her domestic skills look more like MAGIC than work.

We at Mom Loves Today are honored to welcome, Bobbi Janay, The Mom is Magic, as a contributor. Promising to teach us all a little 'magic' to help pep up our daily domestic grind we can't wait for her posts!

Make sure to visit her personal blog When did I go from a kid to a grown up? and follow her on Twitter.

Where The Wild Things Are Imax Sitewarming - Fun & Prizes on Monday!

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 02:39:00 +0000

Are you as excited as we are about the Imax release of Where The Wild Things Are?

Then join us Monday, October 19th, from 9:00 to 10:00 p.m. ET as we Sitewarm the IMAX Facebook page with a Twitter party!

It promises to be quite a 'wild' party with a chance to win some awesome Where The Wild Things Are prizes!

For more info & RSVP please click HERE
or visit http://resourcefulmommy.com

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Brought to you by Momfluence.This contest and party are part of a campaign sponsored by IMAX.

Mom Loves Halloween - Happy Baby Panda

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 08:38:00 +0000

One of my favorite brands is Happy Panda Baby. I love their tagless snappies, t's and the cute little panda that adorns each piece! It's high quality and SO soft!

Elijah's very first Christmas outfit was actually this Happy Panda snappie to the left. It says "Dear Santa, Grandma says I've been a very good baby!" He looked so adorable in it and it fit him so well!

Since Elijah is a Halloween Baby I am always looking for cute Halloween themed clothing. What is cuter than a panda holding a pumpkin? Your baby wearing a panda holding a pumpkin!

Check out their new fall design! Available on lap t's, snappies, toddler t's and as part of a beautiful Halloween diaper cake!

www.HappyBabyPanda.com
On Twitter: @happypandababy
On Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Happy-Panda/24719533703

*This post was not paid in anyway. I just love HPB and it's owner @PamelaMKramer so I thought I would give her a little bloggy love. ♥

Mom Loves Music - Five For Fighting: Slice {review and giveaway}

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

When Hub and I first started dating he used to play Five For Fighting's song 'Superman' quite often. I thought it had great sound and loved the message. When their song '100 Years' came out in 2004 I loved it as well and even bought the CD, 'The Battle For Everything.' So when I was offered the opportunity by the One2One Network to review Five For Fighting's new CD, Slice, I jumped at the chance.

Debuting October 13th, Five For Fighting's new album, Slice, will be the their fifth studio album. They have sold over 2.5 million albums so far and Slice promises to only help that number grow.

The first single off the album, Chances, was released in July as a digital download. I enjoyed the song as soon as I heard it and could not wait to hear the remaining 10 tracks!

I sat here trying to think of a way to describe this album as a whole to you, but I think this press release says it best:

"If every album provides snapshots of where an artist’s mind at heart is at the moment, Slice, the latest offering from John Ondrasik (aka Five for Fighting), is a collection of digital jpegs and faded Polaroids. The album takes stories of friends, family and even American servicemen, and sets them to music shot through with the spirit of the great songs of his youth. It’s a diary, or a blog, in which Ondrasik speaks his mind about current issues, experiences and sentiments, while setting those thoughts to piano, bass and drums."

Jon's voice and tone in each song will lets you not only hear the words, but feel the emotions he puts into it. The lyrics all tell you stories and the music ties it all together perfectly. My favorite song on this album is track number 9, Story of Your Life. To hear samples of Slice's tracks visit Amazon's Slice page here. I enjoyed this CD and think if you are previous fan of Five For Fighting, you will really enjoy this album as well.

Click HERE to order your own copy of Five For Fighting: Slice

If you are looking to see Five For Fighting live, you should hurry and order your tickets soon for their current tour, 'An Acoustic Evening with Five For Fighting'. I noticed tonight some locations are already sold out! Get location and ticket information at http://www.fiveforfighting.com.

If you can't see him live John is also doing a few TV appearances this month:

CBS Saturday Morning 10/10
The View 10/14
The Today Show 10/16

Make sure to visit John and Five For Fighting at: http://www.fiveforfighting.com
On twitter at: http://www.twitter.com/johnondrasik
On YouTube at: http://www.youtube.com/fiveforfighting
And On Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/fiveforfighting

WIN IT!
One Mom Loves Today winner will get an autographed copy of Slice thanks to Five For Fighting and the One2One network!

To Enter: Visit their website and let me know the location and date of the show nearest you!

For additional entries: (leave a separate comment for each action performed)

Follow @momlovestoday on Twitter & Tweet about this giveaway, including the link to this post and @momlovestoday. (leave your twitter id & the status url, 1 extra)
Blog about this giveaway or link this giveaway in a contest listing. (doesn't have to be your listing). (leave the post url, 5 extra entries!!!)
Subscribe to Mom Loves Today. (leave how, 1 extra entry)
Post about this giveaway on your facebook wall. (leave your facebook url, 1 extra entry)

This contest will run from October 9th until 5am EST October 15th. One entry per household.

Good Luck!

This album was provided to Mom Loves Today to review by One2One network.

Frigidaire "Make Time For CHANGE" Campaign! [Win a double wall oven]

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 04:28:00 +0000

Frigidaire and Jennifer Garner are proud to launch a brand new campaign supporting Save the Children's CHANGE program, dedicated to providing nutritious snacks and promoting healthier lifestyles for children living in poverty in the United States. For every pledge made, Frigidaire will donate $1 to support CHANGE and Save the Children's work to help children in need in the U.S., as part of their $250,000 commitment to this worthy cause. Also as part of that commitment, for every new Frigidaire Professional double wall oven purchased, Frigidaire will donate $100 to Save the Children's U.S. Programs.

Frigidaire knows how valuable mom's time is, so in order to make it more worth your time, Frigidaire is generously also entering everyone who pledges for a chance to win a brand new Frigidaire Professional double wall oven! So not only will your click help to save the children, it could also help you to save time if you win the oven!

To make your pledge to devote time to a child and find out all the info please visit http://www.frigidaire.com

Mom Select - Bringing Companies and Moms Together

Mom Loves Sexy - Bringin' Sexy Back... after childbirth.

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 08:53:00 +0000

NOTE: This post contains material of an adult nature. If you are offended by sex or similar content, are under the age of 18 or have kids looking over your shoulder OR are one of my husbands family members... it's probably for the best if you don't continue!

Having a baby is a HUGE thing. It not only changes your life, it changes your life as a couple in so many drastic ways. One of the biggest changes to our relationship was our sex life. Now while I felt totally sexy while pregnant, probably the sexiest I've ever felt, afterward I felt... well honestly... not desirable in the least bit. Basically the farthest thing from sexy possible. Suddenly skin hung on me I didn't even know I had, I don't even want to discuss my boobs, and I seriously doubted after D {hubby} watched a human come out of my vag-j-j that he would ever be able to look at it the same. Stretch marks? No seriously... my stomach looked like Freddy Kruger's face. Needless to say I had NO desire whatsoever to get intimate. Just the thought of showering frightened me, knowing I would have to be naked!!!

Now I am not sure if this was all REALLY as bad as I thought it was, or if it was just the postpartum depression talking, but I was really upset about it. I went from 'Can I have it? Can we do it? OMG I gotta have it' to 'Eeeewww don't look at me with clothes ON! and let's not even think about clothes off.' During E's birth I had to have an emergency fourth degree episiotomy so it took MONTHS to even regain a bit of normality. At about week 12, I sat down with D to discuss my feelings and new self esteem issues. He was so supportive! He told me how beautiful I was and always will be. He also shared how seeing our son's birth didn't make him want me less. In fact it made me want me more. He had a whole new respect for me, a whole new set of feelings. Honestly I had a whole new set of feelings for him myself after seeing him become a Dad. It's all so dramatic, so beautiful, so emotional. I just had to come to terms with my new image... and not think of it as ugly, or stretched out, or fat. I need to see it as sexy! This body is my trophy, my award, my badge of honor for beginning one of life's greatest journeys... MOTHERHOOD! It was hard at first but now that we have regained our intimacy it seems to be helping me to feel sexier again.

The only thing is now getting used to sex with my new 'mom body.' D doesn't seem to notice but let me tell you, my body notices! I feel heavier, my back and legs hurt much easier, and flexibility... what's that??? haha! At first we used the old propping up pillows routine to raise my fat butt up. But soon realized the pillows were going flat after about 30 seconds. {...did I mention maybe hub gained a bit of sympathy pregnancy weight... oh yeah...} So we quickly realized we needed a better, more convenient, permanent solution.

I am sure a lot of you have heard of Eden Fantasys adult store or chatted with Drew on twitter {who is totally awesome by the way.} Well Drew and Eden Fantasys were sweet enough to send us a little fun pillow to help!

The Inflatable Tilt Master!

The shape reminds me of pacman with handles! It is actually 22"x22"x36"...so not a small pillow! It has a really soft velvet feel to it and since it's inflatable pvc, it weighs next to nothing! The first time I blew it up was just to test it out, wasn't sexi time or anything, but I am so glad I did. Even with my air compressor it still took a few minutes. Definitely not a toy you want your man to have to blow up manually with a boner, so it may be a good idea to blow it up ahead of time if possible or at least have a pump handy. We actually have just kept ours blown up in D's home office. It really is so non-descriptive I doubt even if someone saw it they would realize what it is. Or you could just say it's a new type of exercise ball... I don't think anybody would think twice.

It says on the package that it can accommodate up to 300lbs but we are more than that combined and as long as you leave a little 'give' in the air and don't blow it totally up I don't think a few pounds over will hurt. We were pretty rough on it just playing around before we tried doing it on it. {I mean seriously we were worried our fat asses would pop it!} But it didn't pop or even make any odd air releasing sounds. So once we were sure it wasn't going to pop we put it to the test. yes. we had sex on it. woo hooo!

This pillow is awesome! Not only did my back not hurt after two seconds, it didn't hurt at all! The rocking design kept my hips from hurting and there are SO many position possibilities! The handles are an added bonus too. You can use it like a couch, you can roll it so the round side if up and hang your body across it! We didn't try it yet but you could even use it to keep your neck from hurting while giving oral or to relax while you get it. There are so many ways to use this thing we are discovering more and more.

I love the inflatable tilt master and give it 4 stars out of 5! I recommend it to anyone who wants to bring more spice to the bedroom or that is experiencing the similar 'mom body' problem. It takes so much pressure off your back and hips! I was excited too because in the box came a small repair kit and a blindfold. I was excited about the blindfold because I lost my sleep mask... an essential part of my sleeping. LOL!

What positions do you think would be fun to try on the inflatable tilt master? Is there certain position you want to know if we tired on it and how it was?

There are so many other great pillows and support at Eden Fantasys too if this isn't exactly what you are looking for. The Tilt and The Iceberg both are highly rated! And that's just a few of their hundreds of items! I want SO MUCH of their store, I am sure you will too! Everything from toys for couples to toys for just us ladies! They don't just have a normal boring internet shop like all the other stores either. Each product has an overview, buyer voted rating, material safety score, popularity score, user reviews and links to questions and comments about the item in their forums. Eden Fantasys site is totally user friendly to not only find the items you have wanted but to make sure they will do what you want. It doesn't matter if you just want some items to set the mood or a toy that will give you multiples, Eden Fantasys selection is amazing!

Check out Eden Fantasys at: http://www.edenfantasys.com

On twitter @EdenFantasys
& follow Drew @DrewG78

And make sure to check out Eden Fantasys Sexis Magazine.

It has TONS of awesome posts! I die laughing reading The Bloggess' column! Her post from a few days about 10 slightly less dangerous alternatives to autoerotic asphyxiation caused me to laugh so hard I almost peed.

Thank you thank you thank you to Eden Fantasys and Drew for giving us the chance to try out the tilt master!

{product was provided by Eden Fantasys}

Mom Loves Makeup!

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 07:03:00 +0000

I wrote a post on some of my favorite makeup just for fun tonight on my personal blog!

Check it out & share your favs:
http://ejsmomej.blogspot.com/2009/09/oohhhh-makeup.html

Cookieskids.com Laptop Giveaway Sweepstakes

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 03:28:00 +0000

Is your current computer stalling and giving you blue screen nightmares?
Would you love to be able to have one that the kids could use (alas, staying off of yours)?

CookiesKids.com feels your pain and has come to your rescue!

Sign up to receive the Cookies Kids Newsletter via e-mail and you're automatically entered to win one of 4 brand new laptops!!

Simply fill out the form below to be entered into our Laptop Giveaway Sweepstakes.
Please be sure to read the Giveaway Sweepstakes "Terms and Conditions" on their site before entering your information.

http://cli.gs/6dGhsh

Contest ends 9/30/09 at 11:59 AM ET.
This contest brought to you courtesy of the Momfluence network.

March of Dimes Fundraiser Raffle!

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 05:27:00 +0000

Future mama has organized a great raffle with great prizes! All you have to do to enter is donate at least $1 to March of Dimes! As a bonus she is also giving a special prize to anyone who donates $15 to this wonderful charity!

Please visit her for more info at:
http://babymakingmachine.blogspot.com/2009/09/march-of-dimes-raffle-prizes.html

Stride Rite-Helping my baby to walk {& a giveaway}

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 04:00:00 +0000

One of a parents greatest joys is watching their child achieve their milestones. It's so bittersweet. You can't wait to see them do it, and then they do and you wish they hadn't because it's one step closer to their inevitable independence. Dave and I have kept track of Elijah's milestones from the very beginning of my pregnancy! We ooh and ah at every smile, wave, and coo. As he gets closer and closer to that first step without help our hearts jump for joy, even though we are scared of what's to come. This first step. Elijah's first step. Our little baby's first step. It changes his entire life, our entire lives. He will no longer be our little helpless angel, depending on us for every little thing. He will be our independent toddler. He will be able to decide where he wants to go, what he wants to do.

Elijah has always been an active baby. He was only 2 months old when he realized he preferred you to hold him sitting up than laying down. It was only a month after that he realized he could get a much better view than that even if you held him in a standing position. Honestly I can't remember if he has sat down since. Now just a little more than a week away from 11 months he has been pulling up to stand alone since 8 months and 'cruising' the furniture since 9 months. He loves to 'walk' assisted but I don't think he realizes yet he can do it alone. He will use the wall and stand up and will walk the entire walls in the playroom. He may even see something along the way and reach down to get it, then go back about his way. But he hasn't gotten the courage yet to let go. There are times he has forgotten while playing with Dave and I. He will turn from one of us to the other and take a step forward falling into our arms when he realizes no one is holding him. We know it will be any day now and he will realize he doesn't need us holding him. He will realize its okay. He can do it himself.

One of Elijah's favorite things since we first showed he could stand, was shoes. He loved to have shoes on and would gladly kick his feet, all smiles when I put a new pair on him! He still enjoys them but I have been having trouble finding a pair that fits him well. He never wore newborn size and we were actually told by a nurse at the hospital that he has some of the biggest feed they ever saw on a newborn. So considering his first pair of shoes were a size 2 and he outgrew size 3 by 2 months later, it's no surprise his feet have continued to grow ahead of schedule. Problem is they got SO ahead of schedule I lost track of what size he should be in. Most recently he was in a size 5. He had a cute pair of sesame street high tops that lit up. Only problem is they weigh so much I worried they were hurting him and making it difficult to walk. Then just in time, Amy from Momfluence contacted me about a possible opportunity with Stride Rite shoes. I was beside myself happy. Not only would I be able to find out what size shoes Elijah should really be wearing, I would be able to get a little insight on what the best shoe for a baby learning to walk is.
Just last month Stride Rite announced the launch of their new collection of baby shoes with patent-pending Sensory Response Technology™ (SRT™). From their press release: 'This revolutionary children's footwear technology, developed in conjunction with the Leon Root, M.D. Motion Analysis Laboratory at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York, improves the way a child learns to walk via a sensory feedback system, an ultra-flexible design that allows for more freedom of movement, and a unique construction that reduces the number of stumbles and falls.'

WOW! How cool is that? They said that first walkers need shoes that allow them to feel and grip the surface beneath them, as well as distribute their weight properly to keep their balance, so they designed a shoe that did just that! And to top it off, not only are they functional, they are SO CUTE! They come in so many styles and colors for boys and girls.

What really impressed me too was their e-fitting guide. All you do is go to their site and print out the fitting sheet. There will be a strip on one side you have to cut off to measure the width but boy am I glad I did. I first measured the length of Elijah's foot when he was napping. I pressed the paper to the bottom of his foot, made sure his foot was flat, toes extended... but I was worried that wasn't accurate. So when he woke up I tried again. I had him stand up on the paper. It was a bit off, but basically the same. My 10 month old baby wears a size 6.5!!! I couldn't believe it! Then I measured the width with the other chart. Well that explains it. We could not figure out why shoes always are too skinny for him. Well they are! He has a wide (almost extra wide) foot! I am so glad I was able to properly measure him! I give him a day in these shoes... and he will running!

I can't wait to try Elijah's new pair and will surely update you all when I get them!

Interesting in finding more about SRT™ and other Stride Rite shoes for your toddler or child? Visit them here: http://www.striderite.com/text/srt/

I'm also totally loving their facebook page! Check it out and become a fan here: http://www.facebook.com/striderite

AND

Want to win your own pair of Stride Rite shoes?

***FIVE winners will be chosen to receive ONE pair of SRT shoes, available in sizes 3 to 8 infant/toddler including medium & wide. ($50 value)

TO ENTER: Please fill out this form- http://bit.ly/zb2Qb

Good Luck!

This contest was brought to you by Momfluence & Stride Rite. It is open to legal U.S. residents 18 years or older. The giveaway begins at 12:00 a.m. ET September 14^th and ends at 11:59 p.m. ET September 28^th. Five winners will be chosen to receive a pair of SRT shoes – toddler size only ($50 RV per pair) by Stride Rite & Momfluence by random.org.

Notable Newness ~ Mom Loves Giveaways

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 22:59:00 +0000

There are so many great giveaways going on this week I wanted to share some of them in a Notable Newness post, especially the ones you may not have seen before!

ENDING SOONEST!

@DomesticDebacle has two awesome giveaways I know you'll like!

Wanchai Ferry dinner for two & prize pack giveaway ENDS TONIGHT 9/10
Another amazing giveaway:THE POWER SHELF! Made in the USA, techies rejoice! ENDS TOMORROW 9/11

@collyn23 has some great ones going on at her blog

U Printing Cards Ends Sept 10
Glasses USA Ends Sept 10
Pawparazzi Ends Sept 11
Reli on Thermometer Ends Sept 18
Modbe London Jeans Ends Sept 18
Curious Chef Ends Sept 25
Zula Patrol Ends Sept 25
MyPunchBowl Ends Sept 25
Smart Pocket Cloth Diaper Ends Oct 2

@Hula_Hoopin_Mom has a bunch of great ones too!

Other awesome giveaways:

@lkwhtmomfound has a great Crazy Forts giveaway -Ends Sept 21
@Zealandsmom has a Hands Off Baby (we all need this) -Ends Sept 12
@BOREDmommy has a Citrus Clothing giveaway -Ends Sept 18

Have another one you want people to know? Leave it in the comments!

__________

oh and I forgot to tell you guys... I was quoted!

Curious what I said I would NEVER review on my blogs? Then check out Top Ten Thursday ~ What NOT to Review on Blog by MommaDjane

Spub Bibs and Chalkboard Stickers

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 09:29:00 +0000

Introducing Cocoboheme Spub Bibs
and Chalkboard Stickers
made with 100% biodegradable
plastic from potato starch.

Made with a bioplymer derived from potato starch, both the bibs and the stickers reduce the need for petroleum-based plastic and are fully compostable according to European Norm EN 13432. All the products are re-usable (bibs are waterproof) and will last approximately two years. Once you're done with them, you can either compost them and return nutrients to the soil, or put them in the trash knowing that in about 6 months, 90% of the material will have biodegraded (as opposed to many decades for most plastic bibs and vinyl stickers). Of course, the inks and glue are also eco-friendly.

I'm thrilled to introduce the French design company Cocoboheme and their sustainable, biodegradable, and virtually carbon-neutral bibs and chalkboard wall stickers.

About European Norm EN 13432: Today, the terms biodegradation, biodegradable materials, compostability etc. are very common, but frequently misused. Consequently, this is a source of misunderstanding. The European Standard EN13432 "Requirements for packaging recoverable through composting and biodegradation" resolves this problem by defining the characteristics that a material must have, in order to be defined as "compostable". This norm is a reference point for material manufacturers, public authorities, composters and consumers.

And if you're concerned that using these bibs and stickers will cut back on your supply of Tater Tots, not to worry--the starch used to make the bibs and sticker is already naturally extracted when potato products are processed. So there you have it: No potatoes were harmed in the making of Cocoboheme's products.

Available at http://www.zoeborganic.com

(The above text is directly from the company. No compensation or product was received for exchange for this post.)

Win a pair of Whooga UGG boots!

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 14:18:00 +0000

What is Whooga?

From their site...

A style icon is born ...
Cast into the spotlight with exhibitions at prominent Australian, European and US fashion expo's, Whooga ugg boots are quickly gaining recognition as this season's must have fashion accessory. Featuring styles which tribute chic retro inspired, classical ugg boot designs in traditional rich and earthy colours. Whooga's offer fashionistas worldwide a chance to indulge in the ultimate footwear luxury.

Hand crafted from the finest Australian natural leathers for luxury, durability and performance. Featuring sumptuous thick inner fibres for unrivalled warmth and comfort, rarely does fashion ever feel this good. Refusing to compromise on quality, Whooga's are limited run - due in part to the scarce availability of twin faced Australian Merino sheepskin.

Increasingly adorned by Hollywood's fashion elite, including style icons Vanessa Hudgens, Miley Cyrus and many others. Whooga is considered by many to be 2008's most exclusive ugg boot label.

I have heard SO many great things about UGG boots! They look so warm and toasty and come in a great selection of colors! I haven't gotten to own a pair yet, But now I may have a chance, and so can you!

Whooga Boots is giving a pair of UGG boots away every month! The only requirement is that you post their badge on your blog! How easy is that?

Don't win right away? Don't worry, you can remain entered for as long as you want! You automatically are entered as long as you choose to display the Whooga Badge!

They even ship internationally, so this contest is open to EVERYONE!

To enter click here.

Good Luck!

Free @cardstyle Greeting Cards Sept 1-7th

momlovesreviews@gmail.com (The Mom - Erin) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 10:24:00 +0000

These cards are SO beautiful! I sent the gray baby hope card to my little boy, Elijah, who is turning 1 year old in October. It turned out so beautiful with a picture of him now on the outside, and 4 pictures of him from birth until now on the inside. I wrote a loving message from his Daddy & I that he will surely treasure forever!

Head over to https://www.cardstore.com today to send your own card absolutely free of charge!

During the Week of Hope Cardstore.com is also sponsoring the Hope Stationery Giveaway for those who sent cards. Five lucky winners will receive a set of 25 personalized thank you cards from Cardstore.com.
Click here to enter after you send your card.

Follow them on twitter @cardstyle
Fan them on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cardstore/95782626490