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Review of OFF! PowerPad Lamp


Things have been a bit buggy here at Lille Punkin'... so much, in fact, that we've really had to be smart about protecting our family from those nasty bites that spiders, mosquitoes, and flies can bring about. We already told you about our new love-affair with OFF! FamilyCare Smooth & Dry so I know this won't come as any surprise to you: We are suckers for the OFF! PowerPad Lamp!

Forget tiki torches and open candles (both of which can become a burn hazard to curious little fingers), and consider the unique design of the PowerPad Lamp. With these cool little "PowerPads" that you insert into the top of the lamp, and a tiny candle (housed inside the lamp for optimum safety), you can light 'er up and keep a 15' X 15' area free from pests for up to 4 hours!

Does it work? You bet. And with the strength of 15 times a regular citronella candle (without that annoying odor.) They even have a PowerPad Lantern that comes ready-to-hang with an included 4-foot pole. Refills of the candle and PowerPads are available most anywhere!

I liked the simplicity of this product. But mostly, we dug hanging out in those damp areas of the yard sans skeetos. I'm a fan.

Hook yourself up with a great deal by visiting the OFF! website and printing a Buy One Get One Free coupon, valid anywhere PowerPad Lamps are sold. Or just revisit our OFF! Smooth & Dry review to see how you can get both effective products in our giveaway.

Now, who says you can't get something good for free?

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Review of OFF! FamilyCare Smooth & Dry Insect Repellent


'Tis mosquito season at our hot and humid farm. Working in the garden, playing in the yard, or simply watching a bit of TV (yes, I get to once in awhile) brings about opportunities for the icky skeeters to harass my family and leave those nasty, itchy welts all over our bodies.

As if the irritation wasn't enough, reports of West Nile Virus have us more than concerned for the safety of our family. Is there any option for protection that isn't as oily or stinky as conventional bug sprays?

When we had the chance to add OFF! FamilyCare Smooth & Dry Insect Repellent to our list of products to review, I was psyched. From the makers of Skintastic, this was ONE product that wasn't going to wait its turn before I got around to trying it. I sprayed some on before my very late (11 p.m.) weeding routine in my overgrown garden, and headed out into the night. I could hear them buzzing around me -- but not one mosquito touched my skin!

How is this formula of OFF! better than others? In addition to the superb protection it offers, the smell is rather pleasant (just don't breathe it in, people.) But the best part is how it doesn't leave you feeling heavy, sticky, and like you just stepped out of a corn syrup fight. It really is dry. It really is light. It really does feel like a dusting of powder!

The fine mist comes out of the spray can with ease, so there's no goofs (like accidentally spraying into the eyes or mouth.) An effective way to ward off unwanted visitors, we give OFF! top shelf space in our outdoor arsenal!

For more info on the complete OFF! line, visit their website at OffProtects.com! (And for more great product info on OFF! products, check back with us for a review of the new OFF! Powerpad Lamp.)

Want to win some OFF! gear? Just visit the OFF! website from now until Monday, June 30th at 11 pm CST and comment here with the OFF! product you would like to try most! We will randomly pick 2 lucky winners to score some Smooth & Dry for their own family (as well as one of those cool Powerpad Lamps we mentioned). Giveaway subject to site rules.

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Review of Glow Mama Drink for Moms!


With all the drinks on the market, is it any surprise that there is now one designed specifically for Moms and Moms-to-be? What would that "perfect" drink contain? Probably the same thing that our tested product, Glow Mama, has in it!


A very yummy, but light (I mean only faintly sweetened) drink chock full of good stuff, Glow Mama surprised me with it's healthy attitude! Made from kiwi juice, this totally original drink contains the best things for a pregnant or already Mommified gal on the go:

Keep yourself refreshed and hydrated with a low-calorie option as unique as you are. I found Glow Mama to be perfectly sweetened, satisfying, and a good choice for those caffeine-free days. Recommended by the American Pregnancy Association, it's available at online at drinktoglow.com and at Amazon.com.

(They also have a killer list of "mocktails" for those uber-responsible Mamas looking for something exotic to drink.)

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Review of Kashi's Vive Probiotic Digestive Wellness Cereal


Looking at the contents of my first box of Kashi Vive, I was a little scared. I'll admit that "healthy" doesn't get me too excited on most days. The cereal itself looked very, very healthy. There were flakes, "sticks," and some tiny white round things. But I had to try them... I'm glad that I did!

The Toasted Graham and Vanilla variety of Vive was very different from anything I've tried before (including previous varieties of Kashi cereal.) A very crunchy texture and a healthy, wheaty flavor compared nicely with the subtly sweet taste of the little white things (which I found out were vanilla-dipped rice crisps -YUM!) Totally packed with fiber, the cereal filled me up after just one serving. I could see this helping my meal plan.

While there are way too many good things going on with this cereal to name them all, here are a few healthy highlights:
That's cool. And I promise, you can't taste the broccoli!

You can buy this healthy (and tasty) new breakfast or snack option anywhere Kashi cereals are sold and at Amazon.com!

Looking for more Lille Punkin' approved probiotic products? Check out our review of Probugs for kids!

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Review of Burn Jel Plus


Ouch! It happens all the time: You touch a burner, reach into the oven wrong, or make a mistake at the BBQ grill. While burns can be a bummer, you don't have to suffer too long with them.

We had the chance to try out WaterJel's Burn Jel Plus, a very "cool" alternative to traditional burn remedies. This fast-acting burn care gel is very effective, and can be used for burns, scalds, and sunburns (boy, do we need this!) The product states that it is used by "doctors, the U.S. military, and EMT's." But could it handle a houseful of clumsy kids and their parents?

Yes, it could!

Burn Jel Plus is easy to apply, just open the cap, and pour it on in a thick layer for best results. It really works because it contains Lidocaine HCL (a pain reliever that works on contact), Vitamin E (which sooths and heals skin), and Tea Tree Oil (which is known to prevent infections and speed healing.) It works amazingly, and it helps to keep your skin feeling fresh and cool while it heals, with less chance of infection.

This burn treatment isn't a substitute for seeing a professional, so if you have major burns that blister or appear raw, consult your doctor. For everyday minor burns, Burn Jel Plus is perfect for us! We will definitely keep a bottle on hand in our first-aid kit this summer!

Burn Jel Plus is available at pharmacies, health suppliers, and retail stores nationwide!

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Review of Neutregena Fresh Cooling Body Mist Sunblock

Neutrogena Fresh Cooling Body Mist Sunblock is revolutionary. No, really.

My new favorite sunblock is easy to apply, and goes on more evenly than other sunblocks. I love that it doesn't feel heavy, greasy, or smell funky. And the best part? It's way cool! The "Fresh Cooling" feature gives hot and tired skin a burst of refreshing relief when the sunblock is sprayed on. The Patented Helioplex technology provides unbeatable Broad-Spectrum UV defense against sun damage.

We use this all the time at our house. Hubby loves it, and I love it. Forget rubbing on the gooey lotions that feel heavy. I'm hooked on this cooling spray that protects my skin without smothering it to death.

Check out the full line of Neutrogena sun care products at their website!

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Beauty Starts Within...

While I love to look good on the outside, if I'm feeling yucky, everyone can tell. I love to kick up my lifestyle with some tasty products that actually help me to feel better. One of my favorites (that I've been using for years), is Emergen-C powdered drink with C vitamins. It's super yummy (try the tangerine or new pink lemonade), and has replaced sodas and other sugary drinks with a fizzy, healthy option. Just add tap water!

Emergen-C is available at Walmart, Target, and Amazon!

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Review of RoC® RETINOL CORREXION® Daily Moisturizer SPF 30


I'm only 29, but I feel the wrinkles coming on. When I frown, they stay just a bit longer than I'd like, and I can tell that my skin doesn't have the elasticity it used to!

Wouldn't I just love to find a product that goes on as easily as my normal daily moisturizer, but also provides the safe benefits of a wrinkle corrector... I think that I have!

After just 3 weeks of regularly using RoC® RETINOL CORREXION® Daily Moisturizer SPF 30, I can see the difference. My wrinkles have started to fill in, and my skin looks glowing! I haven't suffered from the drying effect that the sun usually gives my skin in the summer, and the best part: no clogged and yucky pores (pimples). The product is light, smells nice, and is highly effective at plumping up my wrinkly spots. It even has started to diminish my pores!

Typical results can be seen in 8 weeks of use... (or less in cases of younger skin -- like mine!) This oil-free product contains Retinol, so be aware that you may need to apply it every other day to start with. After you know how well your skin will react, you can go to every day.

Do you want to start experiencing the benefits of Retinol? RoC and Lille Punkin' are giving three lucky winners the chance to win their own tube of RoC® RETINOL CORREXION® Daily Moisturizer SPF 30 (valued at $20 each). Just leave a comment on this post, telling us the areas of your face that need the most help anytime before Sunday, May 25th at 11 pm CST. You may enter daily. See our full site rules for details.

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Review of Reach CleanPaste Floss

Products for your teeth aren't that all exciting, I know. But a cleaner, easier, and more comfortable way to floss is!

Reach has come out with a new kind of floss. It's not just minty (like some). It's definitely not waxy (like others). It's really just kind of pasty. Coated with a toothpaste-like material, this floss really slides in easily between teeth (even those that are really close together.) And it's called CleanPaste!

I loved how fresh my mouth felt after using the floss. The shred-resistant and totally yummy-tasting floss held up well and lasted longer than other floss. I'm totally hooked!

CleanPaste floss is available anywhere you would buy other stuff for your mouth! (Get your valuable coupon HERE.)

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Review of Desert Essence Thorougly Clean Face Wash


I need a good face wash that will get me through my tough days, and preferably one that is both tough on dirt, but easy on my sensitive skin. It is also desirable to have one that supports my concerns about using renewable energy during production.

Desert Essence Thoroughly Clean Face Wash is a lifesaver. I've been using it for years now, and it is the only face wash used by me, my hubby, and my tweenage daughter. It's effective against breakouts, but doesn't contain harmful acids or medicines that may cause over-drying or sensitivities.

Made with 100% pure tea tree oil (a miracle ingredient by my standards), a little bit goes a long way! Buy in bulk and refill your dispenser to get even more value out of your purchase!

All of Desert Essence's product are available at health stores, many pharmacies, and at Amazon.com. Bye-Bye breakouts!

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Review of Wholly Wholesome Natural Baked Goods

I'm a foodie, through and through.... BUT I wince at the words "Wholesome" and "Natural" when it comes to my desserts. I admit that I often eat what tastes good in lieu of what is good for me. (I'll admit to even feeding my kids better than I feed myself.)

Wouldn't you agree that it would be nice to have a special dessert that not only tastes delicious, but is made from the finest natural ingredients? Now you can.

Wholly Wholesome has a new line of totally fresh, incredibly tasty, and wonderfully natural baked goods, and they are available at your local store! I was in heaven with their 100% Whole Grain Harvest Berry Crumble Cake. This fruity, nutty, sweet and satisfying dessert has the look of homemade, and was hugely popular with my friends and family. The best part was the 16 grams of Whole Grain per serving! It tasted like dessert, but had health stamped all over it! Blueberries, Cranberries and raspberries filled this kicky cake packed with antioxidants and flavor.

Maybe you're more of a cookie person. You'll love their line of organic mini cookies, freshly packed and ready to serve! Yummy, chewy bites of your favorite flavors (chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, and snickerdoodle) will be the life of your next party! Kids and adults both loved our taste test and especially found the oatmeal raisin to die for. Each package is guaranteed to be fresh and tasty right out of the container!

If you were just waiting for an easier way to eat better, I think I've found the best excuse ever! Wholly Wholesome's yummy fare is available now at health food stores all over the country. Check their store locator for the nearest retailer to your home!

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Review of ProBugs Organic Whole Milk Kefir


I'm sure you are no stranger to all the portable yogurt products designed to excite young kids with their sugary flavors, bright packaging, and highly commercialized promotion. My kids scream for those yogurt drinks that offer more calories than calcium, and cost so much -- I question their value.

Maybe it's time for you to try a healthy alternative that the kids will love as much (if not more) than their popular counterparts: LifeWay Foods has introduced a line of organic whole milk kefir that my kids have gone ga-ga over! If the packaging isn't cute enough for you (they are totally and completely spill-proof), maybe the flavor names will get ya! Our favorites are the Orange Creamy Crawler and Goo-Berry Pie. Inspired by the live active cultures that reside in the yummy snack, ProBugs is healthy for little tummies and packs a dose of calcium that moms and dads might enjoy, too! This naturally sweetened probiotic snack is packaged in pouches that contain no phthalates or bisphenol-A (so you can be sure they are safe.)

This went over so well at our house, we are searching the health food market for more! For additional information on the ProBugs products, visit Lifeway Foods website, or find them at a store near you, using the handy Store Locator.

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Review of Listerine Smart Rinse


I'm not usually a fan of mouthwash, it can burn or taste horrible. When I do find one that tastes great, it usually isn't that effective against bad breath or tooth problems.

Listerine Smart Rinse addresses both problems very well. It tastes great (like a fresh spearmint), but isn't too strong. It is designed to be used after brushing, and it indicates how much yuck was remaining in your mouth by tinting it a funky green in your bathroom sink. (yuck) This unique feature aside, it really works! By killing bad breath germs, protecting against plaque, and giving your teeth a dose of fluoride, it is a safe bet in the war against tooth decay!

Listerine creates a full line of mouthwash, and this one might by my favorite! Remember to wait 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything after using this wash, and check it out at your local drugstore or Drugstore.com!

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Review of Gotta Go Mitts


Dirty potties aren't the only time you will want to protect a child's hands. What about while eating something sticky or when they insist on holding on to the filthiest railing on the public transportation system? Gotta Go Mitts might be the solution you're looking for!

Perhaps the simplest of all the hygiene products for children, the Gotta Go Mitts are effective, affordable, and totally no-frills! The very thin disposable mittens fit on almost any child's hand. They are roomy enough for easy on and off, but fitted to keep them from slipping.

The packaging is minimal, which means you can stick a pack in your purse or diaper bag for everyday outings. Completely waterproof (we know -- we tested them), they make also great liners for winter gloves!

Like most super products, the Gotta Go Mitts were designed by a parent (a Mommy) and are just another great way to keep kids clean and safe! Check out the simplest thing in hygiene at www.gottagomitts.com!

SAVE!! Readers who mention that they saw this product on our website will be able to take advantage of a Buy One Get One Free offer -- good until May 31, 2008. Just put that you heard about it from Lille Punkin' Reviews in the comment section when placing your order!

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Review of ShadyBaby Stroller Parasol


My babies are fair skinned (they get it from their Mamma!) so I am careful not to have them exposed to too much sunlight. Sunburn is serious business that greatly increases their chance for skin cancer in their later years.

ShadyBaby
recently introduced me to their beautiful (I mean beautiful) stroller parasols, and they are fast becoming one of my favorite stroller accessories! The trendy designs are fun (I LOVE the sock monkey print.) The parasol itself is so easy to attach to any stroller handle, and it adjusts to three different positions. There is no way my baby's going to burn! The parasol offers SPF 50 UV protection in just seconds. I love that you can clip it onto folding chairs and outdoor playpens, too!

When we were out and about with our ShadyBaby, we loved how light-weight and portable it was. It folds up easily for storage, and keeps clean, too! The creators of ShadyBaby parasols knew what they were doing after experiencing the joys of parasols in Europe. (I'm so glad they brought this fun and functional concept here.) To see all the patterns and details of the ShadyBaby parasol, please visit their website at www.myshadybaby.com!

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Review of Yes To Carrots


Yummy body butters are a passion of mine. While I adore unique scents and fancy packaging, what I want most is rich nourishment for my dry winter skin. I have found an ally in the battle against flakes and scales, and it is Yes To Carrots!

C Through the Dry Spell, Yes to Carrots' Body Butter, is appropriately named for its ability to banish the itchies and ashiness that comes during the dries of seasons. Blended with Carrot Seed Oil, Carrot Juice, Pumpkin, Sweet Potato, Dead Sea Salt, Cocoa Butter, Melon, and a billion (not quite) other delicious and nutritious ingredients, it sounds more like a breakfast smoothie than a skin care product. It goes on rich, feels silky, and has amazing healing potential. I love it on my dishpan hands and bumpy elbows before I retire at night!

The Paraben-free formula is rich in beta-carotein, which has ant-aging and anti-oxidant properties. Best of all, it doesn't smell like much of anything (and especially not like carrots!)

The full line of Yes To Carrots is available exclusively through Walgreens and HSN. For more information on their products or the Yes To Carrots Seed Fund (which assists local communities in acquiring a self-sustaining organic food source), visit their website!


DEAL ALERT: Walgreens is offering a $9.99 rebate on the purchase of the body butter until March 29th! With the butter being on sale for $9.99, this makes it FREE! All other Yes To Carrots products qualify for a $2 instant savings when you use promo code: deadsea

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Review of Oral-B Stages


"Time to brush!" This parental request can either be met with a groan or glee, depending on your child's attitude toward oral hygiene. While cartoon characters aren't always the best choice for coaxing your children towards their health goals, this is an instance where I'm grateful for branding:

Oral-B's Stages features all of my children's favorite characters, and the products are designed to fit perfectly into the mouths and hands of children just their age!

Stage 1: Designed for infants and toddlers 4-24 months, the toothbrushes feature Baby Einstein Characters and baby soft bristles. Perfect for an adult's hand to help with the brushing! Also offers a fluoride-free non-foaming tooth and gum cleaner that's lightly sweetened. (My one-year old LOVES having his teeth brushed with this cleanser!)

Stage 2: Perfect for 2-4 year olds, brushes feature Winnie the Pooh and Little Einstein. They fit perfectly into little hands learning to brush on their own, and the Power-Tip bristles get back into the hardest areas to reach. A pea-sized amount of the Stages Toothpaste is perfect for added fluoride-protection. (The yummy flavors were a hit at our house.)

Stage 3: Designed for 5-7 year olds, these toothbrushes feature Disney Princess and Power Rangers! Also available: A personal flosser for little flossers!

Stage 4: Just like Mom and Dad's toothbrush (only way cooler), these brushes feature Pirate's of the Caribbean.

Dental health has been linked to all kinds of other health issues, so it is important to get kids on the fast track to being able to properly clean their own teeth and gums. Oral-B has partnered with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Joan Lunden in honor of National Children's Dental Health Month (February). For all the tips and tricks you can use to start your children on a proper dental hygiene plan, visit their website.

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Review of Symmetry Sleep System


Yesterday we told you about Dr. Plagio's effort to reduce the number cases of Plagiocephaly (flat-head) in infants. We loved testing out the Symmetry Sleep System by Basic Comfort, designed to implement the TOTS system with ease and effectiveness!

Unlike other sleep aids, this comfy but firm sleep positioner is designed to follow both the Back-to-Sleep guidelines and the TOTS system. Infants can begin using the system as soon as they are born and can continue following the guidelines until they are 6 months old. The positioner itself is made from water-resistant molded foam for lasting support, and it is covered with FlowThru fabric for 100% airflow. (This prevents overheating and re-breathing, which are linked to SIDS.)

We loved that the positioner was easy to use, and ready to go! Simply place your infant in the positioner, and insert the reminder tag (which lets you know which direction to place baby.) The next time you lay baby down to sleep, switch sides and replace the reminder tag facing the other way. By continuing the alternate the way baby sleeps, you are keeping equal pressure on baby's head, and helping to ensure symmetry of the baby's head and skull.

Included in the system is a Symmetry Caliper that can be placed at the opening of the baby's ear canal. By a quick view, you can tell if you baby's head is symmetrical. (If not, make an appointment to see your pediatrician.)

The Symmetry Sleep System is medically approved and patented, but is mom-friendly! For more information on this great product, visit Basic Comfort.

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Review of Philips Sonicare FlexCare Toothbrush


If oral care isn't high on your priority list, maybe you should make it! As someone who hates to brush, and hates to floss even more, I can understand why an electric toothbrush could make you a little squeamish. Sensitive teeth and gums (especially during pregnancy) can make brushing a fright! Thankfully, there is a new brush in town for all types -- even us that spook easily!

The Philips Sonicare FlexCare Toothbrush is a brush for many people. The same brush can be customized to be used in so many ways! The smaller, lighter, and newest brush from the Sonicare team has settings for every routine:


The brush also includes a built-in sanitizer that uses UV to eliminate 99% of bacteria and viruses on brush heads! What's even more cool is the way it charges AND sanitizes when you're not using it!

This brush was quick to learn to use, and easy to tolerate. The low-vibration made it easy on sensitive gums -- and gave you a nice, clean tingly feeling when done. Available at Amazon and other fine retailers!

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Review of gLovies Disposable Sanitary Hand-Covers


I know better than to put my hands all over a public restroom, especially if it is not very well-kept. Does your toddler know? While it is tempting to just scream, "Don't touch that! Wash your hands! Ick, what is that?" every time you encounter a nasty potty with your child in tow -- there is a better way!

gLovies are special disposable hand-covers for kids ages 2-6. They are like mittens, except they protect against germs and can be thrown away after each use! Each pair is waterproof, comfy, and adorned with three cute penguin friends aimed to keep kids enthusiastic about wearing their gLovies. gLovies fit loosely, so that hands of all sizes can slide in easily, and they have a comfortable elastic wristband so that they don't come off when you need them!

My little ones were amazed at their new "gloves." I was relieved to see that all the questionable places in the bathroom were no longer a concern to my kids' health! They had no problem "doing their duty" with the gLovies on, and as an added safeguard, were able to throw away the gLovies and wash up easily.

Pediatrician recommended, this product has many uses beyond the public restroom. Any situation where germy hands would be an issue is a perfect one for gLovies! (I especially love the suggestion of putting them on "big" brothers and sisters when handling a newborn baby!)

gLovies come 12 (6 pairs) to a pack, and are available for sale at the My Mom Knows Best website!

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