Review of Seat Snug

Booster seats are designed to make a child's travels safe, but could they be safer?

The makers of the Seat Snug think so, and they've designed a device that helps tighten the slack caused by using boosters in traditional vehicle seat belt systems. By keeping your child snug, they are less likely to be injured in an accident!

This neat little product is easy to install and use. Designed for children sitting in a booster seat (not an infant car seat), the Seat Snug is a wise investment for traveling kids. For more info on the system and how the product works, see their website at www.seatsnug.com.

I'm glad we had a chance to learn about this potentially life-saving product!

Review of My Magical World DVD

The holiday specials are no longer airing on TV, and soon, your kiddos will grow a bit bored from being cooped up inside all day. With a new DVD release from ClearGate KIDS called My Magical World, there is a fascinating place kids can go -- without leaving your living room!

The DVD presents the story of Sammy the "Book Jumper" who opens his book and enters a magical world. Once there, he meets all kinds of positive and encouraging characters that teach language skills, basic manners, and social lessons in a super fun way!

This award-winning movie was very popular at my house. All of the younger kids (aged 2, 3, and 5) got a kick out of the story lines, songs, and lessons. It is a great way to use some TV-time in a positive manner!

The DVD and book series is available at www.mymagicalworld.tv and Amazon.com for $14.99 and is recommended for ages 2-6. Colorful and creative, it's a quality video with redeeming values for all kinds of kids!

Foursquare Recalls Hooded Youth Jackets with Drawstrings Due to Strangulation Hazard

The hoodies recalled contain the logo below:



Please see the CPSC website for full details.

Get Your Baby Safety Products All in One Place

I'm not a big baby-proofing addict. I do, however, know the things that I need to kid-proof in my home, and I'm fairly diligent about keeping them that way. Safety is important, but shopping for it is a bit of a pain.

When buying those hard-to-find child safety gizmos allude me, I love that there is an all-in-one shopping website with everything a responsible parent would need. KidSafe is a haven of safety gear, and the full-color photos, product descriptions, and an easy checkout process help ease any parent's shopping woes.

If baby-proofing or general home safety is at the top of your New Year's Resolution list, you'll love the ideas you can get just by browsing the website. (KidSafe's free links dedicated to safety tips and statistics are a fabulous way to get started. I particularly like the poisonous household plant list they offer.)

See all the safety options available from names like Tots in Mind, Mobi, Evenflo, Gerber, Safety 1st, and more at www.kidsafeinc.com.

(This post is brought to you by KidSafe Inc. at www.kidsafeinc.com)

Woodstock Percussion Inc. Recalls Toy Drums Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

These metal drums (sold between $50 and $100) contain paint that exceeds the standards for lead. For additional information, see the CPSC website.

Munire Recalls “Newport Rubbed Black” Cribs and Matching Furniture Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

The red paint under the black paint on this nursery furniture exceeds the lead standard. Please see the CPSC recall for additional information.

Review of Head First Physics

Homeschoolers, you have to check this out! It's a brand new companion manual for mechanics and practical physics, and it's perfect for those of you who are tired of "stumbling" through physics.

I admit that I get a little nervous when I think about teaching my kids the more advanced science and math subjects. I dove into Head First Physics from O'Reilly with a completely open mind. I wanted to see the subject from the eyes of the students that would be reading from it. It was awesome! Full of practical illustrations, real-life scenarios, and explained beautifully, this text is full of activities designed to help kids grasp the fundamentals of the subject in a way that is practically painless!

There are two audiences that are perfect for this book:

• Students who are studying for AP Physics B or A Level Physics
• Anyone who's interested in how stuff works

So that means my husband should be devouring this book soon. (He falls into that second group of physics geek!)

This giant book (over 900 pages) is perfect as a study guide or a stand-alone text. See the full description at Amazon.com or check out all the O'Reilly texts at www.orielly.com

HP PhotoSmart Express Gets you Pictures in Minutes!

If your a kiosk fan, like me, you'll love this:

HP has developed Photosmart Express printing stations, and they are available all the places you already shop! Just imagine getting a professionally-made photo book, calendar, or greeting cards with the photos you choose -- while you shop! No need for postage or long wait times.

For a list of available stations, see the official HP Photosmart Express website.

AuPairCare Covers Your Most Precious Assets

Who means more to you than your children? I often think about what I'd do if I had to go back to work outside of the home. (I currently am blessed to have my office inside my often chaotic house, children and all!) I think that I'd want my kids to be able to learn and grow at home, with the guidance of a trained and qualified young adult that would give them all their love and attention.

Maybe we'd consider an AuPair!

If you are at all considering a similar arrangement, I encourage you to visit AuPairCare.com for an explanation of their program, costs, and benefits. Maybe your child will learn a new language, develop an appreciation for other cultures, and grow to love their caregiver.

More information is available at www.aupaircare.com. (Get a free application by using code NYSAVINGS -- offer good until January 2, 2009)

Free Personalized Fruit Roll-up Sample!

You know we love Box Tops for Education! Now you can help your school and get a freebie! See offer below for details:

Eat Drink and Be Yummie!

The holidays are a time of indulging: Food and drinks are a favorite part of the celebration, but they can leave you feeling a little "heavier" than before the holidays began. While some magazines and the media can stress eating less, exercising more, and getting a head-start on the weight-loss resolutions, there's one website that says "Enjoy yourself!" That site is EatDrinkandBeYummie.com.

The website offers tips and tricks to eating what you want, when you want to. Diggin' that Krispy Kreme original donut? Sure you could, but how about the Maple glazed version for a150 fewer calories?

Before the holidays take you and your figure by storm, read up on some yummie alternatives, fabulous eats, and check out the amazing slimming clothing from Yummie Tummie. (These pieces are sure to slim your waistline, but won't make you look or feel frumpy. Plus they are worn on the OUTSIDE, like real clothes -- not underwear.) And hey all, they have nursing T's!

We'll be reviewing them later in the year, so check out the Yummie website and come back to see what we think of the line!

Xtreme Toy Zone Recalls Dinosaurs

These dinosaurs (which make noise) have been recalled due to Lead paint standard violation. See the CPSC website for full details.

Phil & Teds Stroller Recall

This Phil & Teds Dash Buggy stroller is being recalled due to a faulty frame handle. Consumers should stop using it and contact the company for a free replacement stroller frame. For more information, see the CPSC official recall.

Review of Beethoven's Big Break on DVD

It's been awhile since I sat down and watched a movie with my kids... really watched, anyway. When we had a chance to preview the new Beethoven movie, however, I thought it would be a good chance to take a break with the little ones. Here's all there is to love about this fun, family movie:

Beethoven's Big Break is classic Beethoven comedy: big dogs, physical gags, quirky characters, and life lessons. It's all family-friendly, so even the tiny one's are safe to watch. It has super-duper star power, including: Moises Arias (Rico on “Hannah Montana”), Jonathan Silverman (“The Single Guy”), Daytime Emmy ^® winner Jennifer Finnigan (“The Bold and the Beautiful”), Rhea Perlman (“Cheers”), Joey Fatone (“Dancing with the Stars,” ‘N Sync), Stephen Tobolowsky (“Heroes”), Oscar Nunez (“The Office”), Eddie Griffin (Undercover Brother) and Cesar Millan (“The Dog Whisperer”).



If that wasn't enough, this film has quality. You know how some of those straight-to-DVD movies leave you feeling a bit cheated? (Not this one!) This full-length film is a class-act, making it a film you will want to watch again and again. My kids laughed so often... I couldn't believe it! My 3-year-old especally yelled out and giggled all the way through. (If the movie wasn't enough fun, you have to check out the 10-minute gag reel.)

To learn more about this awesome film to be released on December 26th, check out this clip on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jNvODbHo4M

Wanna win? Just comment on this post with why you would like to own a copy of Beethoven's Big Break, and we'll pick one reader to get their own DVD! Just leave your comment here by next Friday, December 26th (the date the movie is released) at 5pm CST. Giveaway is subject to complete site rules. (Be sure to give us a way to reach you if you win, and remember that we will never use your email or contact info for anything other than to send your prize.) Good luck!

Storm Watch!

We have had to take yesterday and today off to prepare for winter storms in our area. I appreciate your patience, and we will be back with TWICE as many reviews, news, and giveaways on Friday (or maybe before!)

If you are waiting for a review, rest assured it will be done before the holidays. Please email me with any questions.

Review of Life's Building Blocks Products for Families

Character is a difficult thing to teach children sometimes. Not only do they need to know what it is, but they have to learn how to develop it. It's something we hope we can model, but we also wish to do better with our kids than we have done with ourselves. Right?

Life's Building Blocks knows this and wants to give families a better way. With their line of top-notch products and books, they keep learning values simple and give kids a fun way to explore the issue of right and wrong.


We previewed two items from their website, and I can say that we enjoyed them very much! Here's what we discovered:

• The Spruce Street Six chapter books (for ages 6-11) combine the reading style that kids love, but give virtue-specific lessons that parents will appreciate. In each book, the characters face challenges common to all kids, and their thoughts and actions are followed until the end of the book -- when life lessons and answers are revealed. A review of the life lessons are covered in the "Something to Think About" section at the end.. which parents and kids can read together. (To see a preview of each book, visit the website.)
• Storytelling Zaki (for ages 3-6) is a cuddly soft talking doll that sings and tells stories about virtues (the same ones the Spruce Street Six encounter.) The coolest part is that, just like a real chameleon, Zaki changes colors! The light-up fin on his back turns from red (stop) to yellow (think about it) to green (go for it!) and encourages kids to use their head before making important decisions.

These are just two of the products offered by Life's Building Blocks. (They also have a board game and greeting cards.) You can see their entire line of family-friendly, character-building items at their website www.lifesbuildingblocks.com.

Save! Shop in time for the holidays and get a great deal! Save 20% off your online order or $15 or more by using code Lille20 at checkout! (Offer is good until 1/31)

Wanna win? One lucky reader will get a Zaki doll or the chapter books (their choice) by commenting below. Just visit the Life's Building Blocks website and comment here with the virtue you would want to teach your child about first from the Parent's page. You have until this Saturday, December 20th at 5pm CST to get your entries in. Giveaway is subject to complete site rules. (Be sure to give us a way to reach you if you win, and remember that we will never use your email or contact info for anything other than to send your prize.) Good luck!

Review of CheekEyes Wood Toys

When I first heard the name of these little wooden cuties, I was a little puzzled. Then I took a good look at them:

"CheekEyes" are wooden blocks that are hand-painted with tiny red cheeks and a painted eye. Because they are partially painted, they show the brilliant beauty of the natural rubberwood. They are uniquely made (no two are alike) -- a true treasure!

CheekEyes can ONLY be found at our favorite toy store Oompa.com, and they are fantastic gifts to encourage open-ended play in your child. The wooden pieces themselves are a tad smallish (so keep them away from kids under 3), but they aren't so tiny that you'll be losing the pieces.

The sets come with everything you need for hours of play. The Wooden African Animal Set, for example, includes a lion, hippopotamus, rhinoceros, elephant and giraffe. There are other sets to choose from, and they would make a great collection for a young kid.

Check out all the CheekEyes toys at Oompa's store. With no two of them alike, they are as special as the child you give them to!

Wanna win? We have one set of the winner's choice to give away! (Valued at $29.99) Just visit the Oompa store and comment here with your favorite animal from any CheekEyes set! You have until Friday, December 19th at 5pm to get your entries in. Giveaway is subject to complete site rules. (Be sure to give us a way to reach you if you win, and remember that we will never use your email or contact info for anything other than to send your prize.) Good luck!

Review of Parents Look-At-Me Camera

Just another day in the life of a terrible two: I wrestle my $275 digital camera from my toddler's hands, and he shrieks out in disapproval. Why can't play cameras seem more real? It's what they want, after all.

Maybe you're not aware that Parents (the magazine people) has a toy line, but you really should check it out. We tested the Look-at-Me Camera, and this thing kicks! First of all, it looks like a real camera, with one huge exception - the giant fish eye lens! This thing makes everyone look goofy, and this equals big laughs for your toddler! The camera also has some electronic action that makes it snappy -- a realistic shutter sound when the button is pressed and super spiffy instructions designed to get the subjects of your photos smiling. ("Say Cheese!" "Hold that pose" and a few more.)

There is a lens ring that turns, and a few other lights and sounds to make the experience more genuine. Oh, and there's music. It's like dance music, and all the little one has to do is push a designated button on the back of the camera to get it going.

The toy is cute, and surprisingly not annoying like many electronic toys. It is small, light, and affordable (less than $15.) Designed for ages 12 months and up, my almost 2-year-old was easily entertained by this gizmo. The best part is that it is made from a trusted expert in kids' toys, so you know that it's safe!

The Look-At-Me Camera and the rest of the Parents toys are available at Target stores. Check it out at Parents.com or Target.com and see what other fun treats they offer!

Box Tops Marketplace Makes Holiday Shopping Charitable and Easy!

You have to shop anyway, so why not benefit your school at the same time? I just love the Box Tops for Education Marketplace because it makes supporting your local community an effortless and affordable matter. Here's how:

1. Go to Box Tops Marketplace at www.boxtops4education.com
2. Pick a store that you would like to shop online. (You may have to register first.)
3. Follow the "Shop Now" link and buy as you normally would.
4. Sit back and watch your school collect money for equipment and supplies!

You don't have to do ANYTHING beyond your normal shopping. You can still use gift cards, apply promo codes, and take advantage of sales and bargains. The only thing you have to do differently is begin at the Box Tops site. Your school earns a percentage of every purchase!

If you're not already a member of the Box Tops for Education website, you can get started right away. You can designate a school of your choice to receive funds -- even if you don't have children in school. (You hear that Grandma? You can help out, too!)

For all the retailers participating, visit the website. You'll find all your favorite online stores. (I just did a little Christmas shopping at Old Navy today -- my husband will love his new sweater!) Pick from over 70 retailers, and look for special savings offers to help you save even more money!

Happy Shopping!

Fancast Catches Me Up on My Favorite Shows

I don't have a DVR (in fact, I don't even have cable.) But that doesn't mean I don't like to watch all the hit shows on broadcast and cable -- especially when it can be free!

Fancast is a web-based site that offers full-length episodes of all your favorite programs. Mine include: The Office, Samantha Who?, Heroes, and Eli Stone. There are also cable shows for free, and some that I've enjoyed checking out are Rachel Ray's 30-minute Meals and Iron Chef America. They also have late night favorites that play way after I've gone to bed at night!


You can see all the available full episodes at their website. The streaming video is awesome (and it actually plays well on my kind-of-slow wireless connection.) There are also some exclusive interviews, trailers, and clips to many other shows -- including movies!

You can see all of the full-length episodes at Fancast.com. Check out all the available shows, sign up for reminders, and get more information on upcoming episodes. It's an awesome place for frugal moms to watch TV!

Wanna Win? The Fandom Trivia Game & Sweeps has a chance for your to win an iPod Touch, E! Merchandise, or the grand prize of an Ultimate Hollywood Getaway (valued at over $12K) Enter to win at http://win.fancast.com

Sneak Peek of NEW Boon Toys!

These aren't out yet, but we HAD to share! We loved the first round of Boon bath toys so much (read all about it in our first review.) Do we have any doubt that this next bunch will be fantastic?

We'll keep you posted, but in the meantime... you can see all the buzz before it hits stores on their Facebook page!

Marshall's The Cube = Fabulous Shopping with a Chance to Win!

What's more fabulous than shopping at Marshall's? You'd think not too much, but I just got to try out shopping at The Cube -- and this is some kind of shopping!

This new in-store boutique is everything you love about Marshalls (variety, affordability, and awesome customer service). It has its own unique flavor, however. It feels like a boutique, and the clothes are too cute! The offerings are PERFECT for my tween daughter (who's sporting junior's sizes these days) and it's even more appropriate for fun moms who want to look like they feel: Young, put-together, and up for anything!


Belts, accessories, jeans, sporty sweaters -- The Cube has it all! And you will not find lower prices on new clothing like this anywhere else.

The Cube is only available at select locations, but they are out there! Find one closest to you via their store finder (by zip code or state.) With the holidays right around the corner, hot buys like this will make your gift-giving budget stretch a little further -- without sacrificing style.


You can win! Enter the Rock & Stock Giveaway here: http://www.marshallsonline.com/cube.asp?section=sweeps

Review of All Star Buddies Website

Winter time can be a drag on active kids -- getting outside is a hassle, and exercise is a chore! But with the help of a new website (created by Moms who know what it's like), your kid have a chance to get active and learn at All Star Buddies website.


This really easy-to-use website has so many fun things to do. By joining, you can create your own All Star Buddy (choose from many different sports) and customize your character however you like. Visit Varsity Heights' many areas of interest, like places to eat, learn, and play. Earn points for prizes, goodies, and accessories for your buddy with each activity you do! Learn about health, sharpen your math and language skills, or just hang out! It's a really unique way to get involved!

To learn more, visit the homepage and click on "Take a Tour" or see the Parent's page for how you can become more engaged in your child's online activities. Get healthy and get active with the All Star Buddies website.

Wanna win? All of our newsletter subscribers are automatically entered to get our monthly prize pack, full of goodies from quality companies. This month, we'll be giving out plush All Star Buddies (valued at $19) to lucky winners. (The codes on each can be used on the website!) Get signed up via our newsletter subscription link at the right-hand side of every page on our website.