CLOSED...Tropical Traditions Antioxidant Omega 3 Greens Review and Giveaway

If you are a regular reader of Marlie and Me, then you already know that I have been trying to get my sweet, little girl to drink green smoothies from the time she could hold a sippy cup. I would lovingly blend all sorts of fruit, leafy greens and coconut milk concoctions only to have Marlie spit it out.

I was frustrated, but not ready to give up. I requested the Antioxidant Omega 3 Greens in Berry flavor for my next Tropical Traditions product review in hopes that this would spark her love of green smoothies. And, I was right!

I mixed a scoop of the vibrantly-colored powder with 8 ounces of coconut milk and poured some in Marlie's cup. Then I handed it to her and held my breath.

I watched hopefully, but also with a little doubt. She has a habit of dumping the contents of her cup onto the floor when she is not feeling it. Imagine my glee when she swallowed her first sip and then continued to drink the green smoothie. Look at that green goodness mustache!

What doesn't surprise me is how delicious this drink tastes. It is naturally sweetened with Stevia and berry flavors and also low in calories. The directions say to mix the powder in water, but I recommend you put it in a blender with the milk of your choice for a richer, smoother drink. Not only does Tropical Traditions Antioxidant Omega 3 Greens taste fantastic, but it is also packed with nutrients. A powerful blend of antioxidants, vitamins , minerals, enzymes, and probiotics "supports nutrition, digestion, circulation & immunity."

Marlie and Me now enjoy a green smoothie almost everyday with Tropical Traditions Antioxidant Omega 3 Greens. It is the perfect supplement for a well-balanced diet.

Shop: Tropical Traditions Antioxidant Omega 3 Greens retails for $44.00, but is available for a limited time for $38.99. You can also receive a complimentary copy of the Virgin Coconut Oil book with your first online order by typing in my User ID # 5632947 when selecting "Referred by a friend" under the "How did you hear of us?" drop down menu after you complete your account information. The book will be automatically added to your order. If you have problems, please contact customer service and someone will gladly help.

Win: One lucky Marlie and Me reader is going to win a 13.7 oz canister of Tropical Traditions Antioxidant Omega 3 Greens in Mint or Berry Flavor

Mandatory first entry: Check out the Antioxidant Omega 3 Greens page at the Tropical Traditions website and leave a comment with one the benefits you learned about and tell me which flavor you'd get. If you are commenting as Anonymous, please include first name and an email address
All extra entries listed below are worth one (1) additional admission into this giveaway. Please leave a separate comments for each extra entry you complete)Extra Entries for Supporting the Sponsor:

• Subscribe to the Tropical Traditions sales newsletter
• Follow Tropical Traditions on Twitter (leave Twitter name)
• Visit Tropical Traditions Free Coconut Recipes website and comment on your favorite

Standard Extra Entries:

• Be a current or new follower of Marlie and Me via Google Friend Connect
• Be a current or new subscriber of Marlie and Me via email (subscription must be activated)
• Grab my button (leave the URL in your comment)
• New! Add Marlie and Me to your blog roll (leave the URL in your comment)
• New! Follow Marlie and Me at Networked Blogs on Facebook (leave your FB initials)
• New! Follow me on Twitter and tweet this message (can tweet once daily. leave the URL to the tweet in your comment): I just entered to win a canister of Tropical Traditions Tropical Traditions Antioxidant Omega 3 Greens @Mommy2Marlie #giveaway http://tinyurl.com/39txbyu
• New! Vote for Marlie and Me at Picket Fence Blogs (click button above Google Friend Connect widget)

The rules:

• This giveaway will end on 12/14/10 at 11:59 pm CST
• Winner will be chosen randomly from all comments posted using Random.org
• The winner will be notified by email and have 48 hours to respond. Please make sure I can contact you either by having an email address visible on your blog profile or leave your email address in your comment(s).
• In the event the prize is not claimed in the allotted time another winner will be chosen. This giveaway is open to US/Canada. Must be at least 18 years of age to participate. Void where prohibited.
• By accepting the prize, the winner is granting permission to be identified as such.The winner's mailing address will be forwarded to the sponsor for prize fulfillment.
• The winner has one (1) month from the date of claiming the prize to report any problems (lost shipment, broken product). I will not be responsible for resolving issues after this time.
• Entries that do not follow instructions or are falsified will be disqualified

25% off Cyber Monday at My Baby Clothes Boutique

MyBabyClothesBoutique.com is offering 25% off their entire catalog on November 29th

Use the discount code below to get 25% OFF any order.

Simply enter the code during checkout at MyBabyClothesBoutique.com

Promo only valid from 11/29/2010 12am – 12 am est. Cannot be combined with other offers. Shipping not included.

Discount Code: CYBERSALE2010

*disclosure: I receive points toward merchandise for promoting My Baby Clothes Boutique*

Winner of the $25 My Baby Clothes Boutique Gift Code

By Rico Shen (Rico Shen) [CC-BY-SA-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Congratulations to lucky#50...SCMOMOF2BOYS. She is the random drawing winner of the $25 My Baby Clothes Boutique gift code.

Thanks to everyone who entered. Remember to check out my other open giveaways!

Random numbers generated Nov 27 2010 at 8:11:44 by www.psychicscience.org

Baby Log: 1 Year and 15Weeks Old

I hate to sound ungrateful, but Thanksgiving was a little sucky. We had very warm weather all week, like high 70s and mid 80s...until Thanksgiving day. The sudden drop in the temperature made me cranky. I think it made Marlie cranky too because she was a fussy-pants all day and screamed throughout Thanksgiving dinner. I believe in giving thanks and all, but all the preparations and cooking for just the three of us was exhausting. My body is still recovering from Post-Thanksgiving shock. All our food was healthy, but I ate too much of everything. I think we should scale back on the cornucopia of conspicuous consumption on this holiday. I would not mind working in a soup kitchen next Thanksgiving and sitting down to eat with them.

The week in review:

• Marlie has some interesting taste in music. Reggaeton is her new favorite, especially Daddy Yankee.
  
• She loves it when I rap this lyric: "sh-shake it, don't break it, it took your mama 9 months to make it." Seriously!
• She is climbing like a spider monkey on speed. She can now climb onto the rocking chair in her room. You can't leave anything out that she can climb on. We learned that lesson last week when she fell off the step ladder.
  
• She is now trying to use her doe eyes and pretty smile to get out of trouble. Me: Marlie, why did you unravel the toilet paper again? Marlie's response: batting her eyelashes and flashing a mega-watt smile.

Please support Marlie and Me in the Giveaway Blogs Thanksgiving Photo Contest my leaving a comment on My Thanksgiving Highlight post.

Review: BrytonPick Floss

I am a stickler for oral hygiene, which showed at my dentist appointment a few weeks ago when Dr. Robinson declared that I had "a beautiful set of virgin teeth." I brush and floss religiously and avoid caffeinated and acidic beverages. I plan to die with my own cavity-free teeth intact, thank you very much.

When I heard about the BrytonPick interdental cleaner, I jumped at the chance to review a free sample. I gave the other sample to my husband to try.

BrytonPick is made of super-thin stainless steel wrapped in a plastic holder. The edges are rounded and blunt to reduce the risk of injuring gums, teeth and dental work. Each one is resusable up to 30 days. This video demonstrate how to use a BrytonPick:

So what is it like to floss with a BrytonPick?...

• The sensation of metal passing between your teeth feels a little weird at first, but then you get used to it.
• It makes flossing faster and more thorough, especially when cleaning between the back teeth
• My husband noted that he couldn't use the BrytonPick in areas where his teeth where too close together, so he had to use string floss on these teeth.

Each BrytonPick comes in its own handy carrying case for portability, but I wish the case had a press-and-seal closure because my BrytonPick fell out of the case and onto the ground when I took it out of my wallet. That is my one suggestion for improving this innovative dental product.

If you are a tooth-fanatic like me, then you would benefit from adding the BrytonPick to your daily oral care routine.

You can purchase a 3-pack trial promo of BrytonPick for $4.99 + free shipping and handling at the BrytonPick online store.

My Thanksgiving Highlight

This Thanksgiving our little butterball got her first turkey leg.
She had to bare her teeth to prove that she was up for the task.

This post is my contest entry for GiveawayBlogs.com's “My Thanksgiving Highlight Photo Contest” sponsored by UPrinting.com

Things I'm Loving This Thursday

This week I learned that there are silver linings in even the most adverse circumstances. I have so much to be thankful for and so many blessings. Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

Without further adieu, the things I'm loving this week...

• The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. I haven't missed one since I started watching as a kid.

• Little Noses saline drops. Unclogs stuffy noses so baby bear can sleep (mama and papa bear too). Now a permanent fixture in my baby care toolkit.

• The Girl Who Played With Fire. I just finished the book and watched the Swedish film. I'm still on an adrenaline high.

What are you loving this Thursday? Link Up!

Wordful Wednesday: The Many Faces of Marlie

I had to stray from my normal Wordless Wednesday post because these photos begged for captions! These are just a few illustrations of Marlie's many expressions. She is like her mother, you can read everything on her face...no poker championship in her future!

In this one she is saying: Leave me alone! Can't you see I'm playing with this ball?!


In this one she is saying: Don't try to make me smile. It's not gonna happen, alright?!


In this one she is saying: okay, okay! I'll give you a little smile

A special thanks to Maj at Pooters for taking these wonderful pics of my goofball!

CLOSED...Fluff and Stuff(ing) Giveaway: Mother-ease Sandy's System

If I had to use only one word to describe Mother-ease Cloth Diapers, that word would be plush.

I had the pleasure of reviewing their Sandy's Cloth Diaper System, which consists of:

• 1 Sandy's Cloth Diaper in Cotton Terry Fabric
• 1 Cover ( I chose the Air Flow Snap Cover)
• 1 Sandy's Absorbent Liner in Cotton Terry Fabric

Where to begin?

First, the Sandy's diaper is a fitted so it requires a cover. The Air Flow is the trimmest cover I've encountered and the material is breathable. I can put it over my face and breathe. I guess that's why they call it Air Flow! I also appreciate the snaps that prevent my baby Houdini from removing her diaper. The diaper itself is so luxuriously soft, I feel like I am wrapping my baby's bum in cotton!

Now on to fit. Sandy's diapers come in two sizes: small (8-20 lbs) and Large (20-35 lbs). My baby girl is straddling the line so I ordered the large. As you can see in the photos, her diaper and cover are a little baggy in the waist and rise, but fit perfectly around the thighs where it counts. This means I can continue to use the Sandy's diaper and Air Flow cover while she grows into them.

I didn't forget the ultimate litmus test of any cloth diaper...leakage. No problems here. This diaper is ultra absorbent. I paired the Sandy's diaper with a thirsty Absorbent Liner overnight and it held like the Hoover Dam!

The wife and husband team behind Mother-ease have been in the cloth diapering business for almost 20 years. They pour a wealth of knowledge and experience to the design of their products. All of which have been developed and tested on their four sons!

Shop: Mother-ease cloth diapers for a complete catalog of products and prices.
Win: One lucky Marlie and Me reader is going to receive a Mother-ease Sandy's system in White or Unbleached Cotton Terry fabric, plus a Air Flow or Rikki Wrap cover.
Mandatory first entry: Visit Mother-ease cloth diapers online and leave a comment with something you learned in the Info & Education section . If you are commenting as Anonymous, please include first name and an email address
Special Extra Entries for this Event:

• 10 bonus entries if you blogged about this event before November 15th and sent me the link before November 15th. Leave 10 separate comments.
• 1 bonus entries if you learned about this giveaway on someone's blog (not a linky). Leave a comment with the blog name

All extra entries listed below are worth one (1) additional admission into this giveaway. Please leave a separate comments for each extra entry you complete)Extra Entries for Supporting the Sponsor:

• Like Mother-ease on Facebook (leave FB initials)
• Follow Mother-ease on Twitter (leave Twitter ID)
• Sign up for the Mother-ease forum

Standard Extra Entries:

• Be a current or new follower of Marlie and Me via Google Friend Connect
• Be a current or new subscriber of Marlie and Me via email (subscription must be activated)
• Grab my button (leave the URL in your comment)
• Add Marlie and Me to your blog roll (leave the URL in your comment)
• Follow Marlie and Me at Networked Blogs on Facebook (leave your FB initials)
• Follow me on Twitter and tweet this message (leave the URL to the tweet in your comment): #win a Mother-ease Sandy's System #clothdiapers @Mommy2Marlie #giveaway ends 12.10 http://tinyurl.com/27zlz5s
• Vote for Marlie and Me at Picket Fence Blogs (click button above Google Friend Connect widget)

The rules:

• This giveaway will end on 12/10/10 at 11:59 pm CST
• Winner will be chosen randomly from all comments posted using random number generator
• The winner will be notified by email and have 48 hours to respond. Please make sure I can contact you either by having an email address visible on your blog profile or leave your email address in your comment(s).
• In the event the prize is not claimed in the allotted time another winner will be chosen. This giveaway is open to US/Canada residents only. Must be at least 18 years of age to participate. Void where prohibited.
• By accepting the prize, the winner is granting permission to be identified as such.The winner's mailing address will be forwarded to the sponsor for prize fulfillment.
• The winner has one (1) month from the date of claiming the prize to report any problems (lost shipment, broken product). I will not be responsible for resolving issues after this time.
• Entries that do not follow instructions or are falsified will be disqualified

Fluff and Stuff(ing) Giveaways Update

The response to Marlie and Me's Fluff and Stuff(ing) Cloth Diaper Event has been amazing! But it's not over yet! You still have a chance to enter to win some great cloth diapers and cloth diapering accessories. Just to recap, here is a list of prizes:

Two Zizzies and Izzies Fleece Soakers ends 12.1

Set of 3 Funhog Felts Wool Dryer Balls ends 12.2

Set of 10 Bummas Cloth Wipes ends 12.3

Pooters Bamboo OS Pocket Diaper ends 12.4


And for tomorrow's grand finale...Mother-ease Sandy's system!

Fluff and Stuff(ing) Deal: Earn FREE Patootie OS Cloth Diaper

Cutie-Patootie is running a promotion for a free one size Patootie cloth diaper until Jan 1, 2011.

All you have to do is refer six customers to earn your free Patootie (just pay $3.50 for shipping). Have your friends and readers mention your name or blog in the notes during checkout (mine is Marlie and Me). What a deal!

Share this opportunity with your readers so they can earn a free Patootie too!

Wait, there's more! Earn a 20% discount on future orders if you post a picture of your baby sporting a Patootie on Diaperswappers, Babycenter, or other big cloth diapering forums.

Follow Cutie-Patootie on Facebook to hear about future promotions and sale items.

Gooble Up The Savings This Week at My Baby Clothes Boutique!

MyBabyClothesBoutique.com is offering 15% off their entire catalog from November 22nd - November 24th 2010.

Place your orders before the holiday rush to get first pick of their holiday items before they run out of stock! Use the discount code below to get 15% OFF any order.

Simply enter the code during checkout at MyBabyClothesBoutique.com

Promo only valid from 11/22/2010 - 11/24/2010. Cannot be combined with other offers. Shipping not included.

Discount Code: BEATTHERUSH2010

*disclosure: I receive points toward merchandise for promoting My Baby Clothes Boutique*

Baby Log: 1 Year and 14 Weeks Old

Damon and I went to see Harry Potter #7 at the movie theater yesterday. It was an exhilarating, thrilling and captivating from start to finish. The DARKEST of all the Potter movies so far. I was feeling a bit down afterward knowing that this was the next to last film. Marlie was on a play date in case you are wondering were she was. I can take a hint. You came to see what she's been up to, not to hear about her parents giddy excitement about Harry Potter movies....

• Marlie celebrated 15 months this week. I just realized that our birthdays are numerical mirrors. Her birthday 8-15 written backwards is my birthday 5-18. There is a deep symbolic meaning in this for me.
  
• Her new favorite foods this week are: roasted chickpeas, almonds (she has enough teeth to bite and chew them!) and green smoothies (yay!)
• She is talking up a storm! Even her Montessori teachers have noticed the sudden increase in her vocabulary, which now includes outside, ma nana (banana), up, mine and fish
• Her newest skill is unscrewing twist-on caps...toothpaste tubes, jars, pill bottles. We have to put everything away and out of her reach
• Her latest discovery is, um...her lady bits (to put it delicately). After she disrobes, she will sit on the floor spread eagle and peer down there. It's quite a spectacle.
  

Let Shutterfly Help Turn Your Photos Into Holiday Keepsakes

I am way behind on the Christmas cards this year. Our family photo has yet to be taken, but that hasn't stopped me from perusing the gorgeous selection of Christmas cards and photo Christmas cards at Shutterfly in anticipation of getting ours printed soon. I really liked the sorting feature on Shutterfly's site that enabled me to narrow down by choices by format, card size and even the number of photos in the layout! This is the card that I am going to send to family and friends this year (as soon as we get our photo taken!):

I love the simple and classy design of this card. Our 2010 Christmas cards are going to make nice keepsakes thanks to Shutterfly. Head over their website and check it out for yourself, and while you are there take a look at the precious personalized gifts that any your friends and family will be delighted to receive.

Home for the Holidays

Have you made your Christmas shopping list?

Have you checked it twice?

Did you forget someone? Look again.

No, it's not your kid's teacher or the family pet. I'm talking about your home...your castle, your shelter, your sanctuary. Don't forget to get a present for your house this holiday!

Maybe the kitchen would like butcher block table so people will stop cutting up food on the counter tops. A couple of Adirondack chairs for the lonely front porch would be nice. The laundry room would be thrilled if you installed one of these stainless steel utility sinks!

Make your home a happy place this season with a gift it can appreciate.

CLOSED...Fluff and Stuff(ing) Giveaway: Pooters Bamboo OS Pocket Diaper

It's Day 5 of Fluff and Stuff(ing) and Pooters is on deck!

You can call Pooters a rookie, but not without taking notice of how quickly they've established themselves as an ace player in the cloth diapering arena.

I am a big fan of the Pooters Bamboo One Size Pocket diaper. It has been in my starting line up since I first reviewed it back in February (see my full review here). Here is the company description of this amazing cloth diaper:

The Pooters Bamboo One Size Pocket diaper feature a soft bamboo layer on the inside, a waterproof PUL layer on the outside, sturdy snaps, elastic leg gussets to prevent leaks, and an extra snap closure* for storing dirty diapers on the go (in the newer version). A 6-layer, bamboo knit insert is included - providing the perfect balance of absorbency for baby without the bulk. This is perhaps the trimmest pocket diaper on the market.

Shop: Pooters Bamboo One Size Pocket Diapers retail for $19.95
Win: One lucky Marlie and Me reader is going to receive a Pooters Bamboo One Size Pocket Diaper!Mandatory first entry: Visit Pooters online and leave a comment with something you learned in the how-to-guides. If you are commenting as Anonymous, please include first name and an email address
Special Extra Entries for this Event:

• 10 bonus entries if you blogged about this event before November 15th and sent me the link before November 15th. Leave 10 separate comments.
• 1 bonus entries if you learned about this giveaway on someone's blog (not a linky). Leave a comment with the blog name

All extra entries listed below are worth one (1) additional admission into this giveaway. Please leave a separate comments for each extra entry you complete)Extra Entries for Supporting the Sponsor:

• Like Pooters on Facebook (leave FB initials)
  
• Sign up for weekly specials newsletter (form located on bottom left)

Standard Extra Entries:

• Be a current or new follower of Marlie and Me via Google Friend Connect
• Be a current or new subscriber of Marlie and Me via email (subscription must be activated)
• Grab my button (leave the URL in your comment)
• Add Marlie and Me to your blog roll (leave the URL in your comment)
• Follow Marlie and Me at Networked Blogs on Facebook (leave your FB initials)
• Follow me on Twitter and tweet this message (leave the URL to the tweet in your comment): #win a Pooters OS Pocket Diaper #clothdiapers @Mommy2Marlie #giveaway ends 12.4 http://tinyurl.com/2f4s3fq
• Vote for Marlie and Me at Picket Fence Blogs (click button above Google Friend Connect widget)

The rules:

• This giveaway will end on 12/4/10 at 11:59 pm CST
• Winner will be chosen randomly from all comments posted using random number generator
• The winner will be notified by email and have 48 hours to respond. Please make sure I can contact you either by having an email address visible on your blog profile or leave your email address in your comment(s).
• In the event the prize is not claimed in the allotted time another winner will be chosen. This giveaway is open to US residents only. Must be at least 18 years of age to participate. Void where prohibited.
• By accepting the prize, the winner is granting permission to be identified as such.The winner's mailing address will be forwarded to the sponsor for prize fulfillment.
• The winner has one (1) month from the date of claiming the prize to report any problems (lost shipment, broken product). I will not be responsible for resolving issues after this time.
• Entries that do not follow instructions or are falsified will be disqualified

Things I'm Loving This Thursday

1. Cyber-friends. Quiana at Harlem Love Birds gave me the key to unlocking a 5-year-old mystery (more on that in the next few weeks). Alexia pushed me to step outside of my mommy cave and make some friends through Meetup.com. Kelly at My Voice, My View, Michelle at Flying Giggles and Lollipops, Kim at The Child, and Alexia at Babies and Bacon gave my new meme some love by linking up their posts last week.

2. The giddy, child-like anticipation I am feeling about seeing Part 1 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows on Saturday
   

What are you loving this Thursday? Link Up!

CLOSED...Fluff and Stuff(ing) Giveaway: Bummas Cloth Wipes

Six months into cloth diapering my daughter, I learned about cloth wipes and realized there was a missing piece in my system. I quickly switched. Since then, I have tried a number of different brands, but it wasn't until I used Bummas that I felt that my fluffy stash was complete.

Bummas was born out of necessity as " a soft absorbent, luxurious baby cloth to soak up all the wetness." The Bummas motto is:

After the wipe and before the dipe,
Use a soft kiss of cloth to dry bums off.
Keep diaper rash at bay the Bummas way!

Bummas can also be used as your primary wipe paired with a diaper solution. Just squirt some of your favorite brand-name or homemade solution directly onto the cloth wipe. Bummas is made of 100% cotton-woven velour terry cloth. There is something about the weaving of the fabric that keeps most of the solution on top where it is needed. Use a second Bummas to dry off the baby's bottom. I am in love with how soft and supple they are, very soothing on tender places.

Bummas were made to be reused. They have held up remarkably well after repeated washings...no fraying, pilling, fading or shrinking. My favorite feature is their 5" x7" size, which provides nice coverage of the diaper zone so your hands can stay clean while you clean!

Shop: Get your own set of 10 Bummas for $16.99
Win: One lucky Marlie and Me reader is going to receive a set of 10 Bummas in the Tropical Ones color combo!Mandatory first entry: Visit Bummas online and leave a comment with something you learned about preventing diaper rash. If you are commenting as Anonymous, please include first name and an email address
Special Extra Entries for this Event:

• 10 bonus entries if you blogged about this event before November 15th and sent me the link before November 15th. Leave 10 separate comments.
• 1 bonus entries if you learned about this giveaway on someone's blog (not a linky). Leave a comment with the blog name

All extra entries listed below are worth one (1) additional admission into this giveaway. Please leave a separate comments for each extra entry you complete)Extra Entries for Supporting the Sponsor:

• Like Bummas on Facebook (leave FB initials)
  
• Follow Bummas on Twitter (leave Twitter ID)

Standard Extra Entries:

• Be a current or new follower of Marlie and Me via Google Friend Connect
• Be a current or new subscriber of Marlie and Me via email (subscription must be activated)
• Grab my button (leave the URL in your comment)
• Add Marlie and Me to your blog roll (leave the URL in your comment)
• Follow Marlie and Me at Networked Blogs on Facebook (leave your FB initials)
• Follow me on Twitter and tweet this message (leave the URL to the tweet in your comment): #win a set of Bummas cloth wipes #clothdiapers @Mommy2Marlie #giveaway ends 12.3 http://tinyurl.com/36ly28k
• Vote for Marlie and Me at Picket Fence Blogs (click button above Google Friend Connect widget)

The rules:

• This giveaway will end on 12/3/10 at 11:59 pm CST
• Winner will be chosen randomly from all comments posted using random number generator
• The winner will be notified by email and have 48 hours to respond. Please make sure I can contact you either by having an email address visible on your blog profile or leave your email address in your comment(s).
• In the event the prize is not claimed in the allotted time another winner will be chosen. This giveaway is open to US/Canada residents only. Must be at least 18 years of age to participate. Void where prohibited.
• By accepting the prize, the winner is granting permission to be identified as such.The winner's mailing address will be forwarded to the sponsor for prize fulfillment.
• The winner has one (1) month from the date of claiming the prize to report any problems (lost shipment, broken product). I will not be responsible for resolving issues after this time.
• Entries that do not follow instructions or are falsified will be disqualified

Wordless Wednesday: Don't I Fit in My Daddy's Shoes?!

CLOSED...Fluff & Stuff(ing) Giveaway: Funhog Felts Wool Dryer Balls

It's Day Two of Fluff and Stuff(ing)!

Today I want to talk about wool. Yesterday I admitted that I am incredibly intimidated by wool (the price and the upkeep). If you are wool-wary like me, you will be happy to learn that there is an inexpensive way to incorporate wool into your cloth diapering lifestyle and without the worry over care and maintenance.

Meet: the wool dryer ball...

Wool dryer balls are the eco-friendly answer to fabric softeners and dryer sheets, which deposit chemical residues onto your clothes. Wool dryer balls are perfect for drying cloth diapers because they will not irritate babies sensitive skin. They are also recommended for people who suffer from psoriasis and eczema. Toss a few of these puppies (I called them that because they are so cuddly and soft), into the dryer with your load and they will fluff and separate your clothes. Plus wool dryer balls can reduce overall drying time, saving you energy and money!

I can sense some of your skepticism, but I will testify in court that these puppies really do work! I ordered a set of 3 regular-sized wool dryer balls from Funhog Felts on Etsy. Store-owner Teri answered all my questions and then some. That lady knows wool! Funhog's wool dryer balls are wet felted with wool roving as opposed to wrapped, so there is no risk of the wool unraveling.

I have been using my wool dryer balls for two weeks now and the results are amazing. The first noticeable difference was in the drying time of our cloth diapers. Before the wool dryer balls, it would take 90 minutes to dry 12 cotton diapers, plus assorted inserts and cloth wipes. The 3 wool dryer balls shaved 10 minutes off the drying time. I can cut down on the time even more by adding more dryer balls.

I am also loving how fluffy the diapers are coming out of the dryer and no more static cling! The scent is fresh and clean. But if you prefer your clothes to smell like a dewy meadow or rain forest, you can apply a few drops of an essential oil like lavender to the wool dryer balls.

Tell us a little about your Etsy Business...
I am fairly new to Etsy...less then a year. I have found Etsy to be a good way for me to get feedback on my new ventures in felting. I started felting about a year ago and felt an instant attraction to the feel of wool in my hands turning to felt. Felting is the oldest textile known to man and when I feel the process in my hands I feel a connection with the past that is indescribable. I have found on Etsy a kinship with other crafters and an access to materials and supplies that make living in rural Montana a whole lot easier.

Why did you decide to start making wool dryer balls?
I was attracted to the concept of making dryer balls because I have never been able to use on a regular basis chemical fabric softeners. Due to either my frugality or my revulsion to the chemicals involved. Dryer balls has made my clothing a lot softer and saved me money on power bills.

What is the best way to use your wool dryer balls?
Throw 2 to 6 dryer balls in the dryer with your laundry and just let them live in the dryer! keep them away from ball loving dogs or they will be destroyed quickly. make sure they are dry between use and ignore or shave off the little "pills" that develop with use.

What other kinds of items do you make?
I also make wet felted purses, slippers, toys and booties.

Anything else you would like us to know?
I am loving the whole felting experience and have no idea where I will end up on this exciting journey.Shop: a set of 3 regular-size Funhog Felts wool dryer balls are $14.99, 3 large is $19.99
Win: One lucky Marlie and Me reader is going to receive 3 regular size wool dryer balls from Funhog Felts!

Mandatory first entry: Check out Funhog Felts on Esty and leave a comment with something else you like. If you are commenting as Anonymous, please include first name and an email address
Special Extra Entries for this Event:

• 10 bonus entries if you blogged about this event before November 15th and sent me the link before November 15th. Leave 10 separate comments.
• 1 bonus entries if you learned about this giveaway on someone's blog (not a linky). Leave a comment with the blog name

All extra entries listed below are worth one (1) additional admission into this giveaway. Please leave a separate comments for each extra entry you complete)Extra Entries for Supporting the Sponsor:

• Add Funhog Felts to your ♥ favorites on Etsy (leave Etsy name)

Standard Extra Entries:

• Be a current or new follower of Marlie and Me via Google Friend Connect
• Be a current or new subscriber of Marlie and Me via email (subscription must be activated)
• Grab my button (leave the URL in your comment)
• Add Marlie and Me to your blog roll (leave the URL in your comment)
• Follow Marlie and Me at Networked Blogs on Facebook (leave your FB initials)
• Follow me on Twitter and tweet this message (leave the URL to the tweet in your comment): #win 3 wool dryer balls from Funhog Felts #clothdiapers @Mommy2Marlie #giveaway ends 12.2 http://tinyurl.com/2djampz
• Vote for Marlie and Me at Picket Fence Blogs (click button above Google Friend Connect widget)

The rules:

• This giveaway will end on 12/2/10 at 11:59 pm CST
• Winner will be chosen randomly from all comments posted using random number generator
• The winner will be notified by email and have 48 hours to respond. Please make sure I can contact you either by having an email address visible on your blog profile or leave your email address in your comment(s).
• In the event the prize is not claimed in the allotted time another winner will be chosen. This giveaway is open to US residents only. Must be at least 18 years of age to participate. Void where prohibited.
• By accepting the prize, the winner is granting permission to be identified as such.The winner's mailing address will be forwarded to the sponsor for prize fulfillment.
• The winner has one (1) month from the date of claiming the prize to report any problems (lost shipment, broken product). I will not be responsible for resolving issues after this time.
• Entries that do not follow instructions or are falsified will be disqualified

CLOSED...Fluff and Stuff(ing)Giveaway: Zizzies and Izzies Fleece Soaker

I am kicking off Fluff and Stuff(ing) Week here at Marlie and Me with a roar! Grrr.
Our first sponsor is Zizzies and Izzies, makers of Eco clothes for Eco kids.

I learned about Zizzies and Izzies while looking for a solution to our bulky nighttime diapering system. I wanted a cover that was going to wick away moisture while allowing my baby's skin to breathe. I know wool is all the rage, but I am put off by the cost and maintenance. There is an alternative, my friends. It's called fleece...it's affordable and works!

I was fortunate enough to find Zizzies and Izzies fleece soakers on Esty. When I contacted Shelly, she was more than happy to work with me from helping with sizing to offering this giveaway. I received a large fleece soaker in the coral branches pattern (she also sent me a cloth wipe and an adorable barrette). I could not wait to put the fleece soaker on Marlie, so I washed and dried it the same day it arrived in the mail. I put it over her bamboo diaper that night. It fit her comfortably with room to grow. I have been using the Zizzies and Izzies fleece soaker for about a month and it looks the same as the day it came out of the package!

Here's why I ordered more Zizzies and Izzies fleece soakers:

• The workmanship is top-notch. These are made to last a long time. Shelly makes them by hand and even does custom orders.
• They come in a variety of cute patterns. I ooed and awed over all the fun and unique designs for boys and girls.
• They are daddy-approved. Damon loves that these covers pull up, no messing with snaps or applix.

Here is some additional information about Zizzies and Izzies:

Tell us a little about your Etsy Business...
I started my Etsy shop because I wanted a way to reach out with my cause and my line. I really love what I make, and I feel like others will too if they can just get it in their hands.

Why did you decide to start making fleece soakers?
When I decided to cloth diaper my second baby (I regretfully used all disposable on my first), I wanted to use a hybrid. I liked the idea behind them, but my baby's proportions just didn't fit. They leaked every time. I did a little research, discovered fleece soakers, and then went looking for some. There were so few choices and so few colors and prints! I thought to myself, "I can sew. I can make these." They worked great. My friends loved them, and my line started a few weeks later.

What are some of the best ways to use a fleece soaker?
There are a few. The most eco-friendly way to use them is over a cloth prefold. They are a moisture-wicking cover. The baby's clothes won't get wet unless he's been in the diaper a little too long, but the cover will feel slightly damp if he is pretty wet inside. I liked this property. It meant that moisture was being pulled away from his bum while being contained in the cover.

Another great way to use them is as an extra cover at night. Heavy wetters can use the layer of fleece to keep their bums and their jammies a little dryer, whether over a cloth or a disposable.

They are also adorable over disposables. As a decorative touch, I love them. In the summer time, Zizzie wears him as little shorts (they kind of look like boxer briefs -- way cuter than a baby in a disposable running around). He sleeps in them too on hot nights. And as he gets older, I have found they are great for keeping him from unfastening disposables.

Anything else you'd like us to know?
I am a stay at home mom. I make all of my products to be either reusable or out of recycled materials. Everything I sell, I made one for home use first. I stand by it all.Shop: Zizzies and Izzies fleece soakers start at $8! If you 'like' Zizzie Britches on Facebook and let her know when you place your order, shipping is FREE!
Win: One lucky Marlie and Me reader is going to receive TWO Zizzies and Izzies fleece soakers, winners choice!Mandatory first entry: Check out Zizzies and Izzies on Esty and leave a comment with something else you like. If you are commenting as Anonymous, please include first name and an email address
Special Extra Entries for this Event:

• 10 bonus entries if you blogged about this event before November 15th and sent me the link before November 15th. Leave 10 separate comments.
• 1 bonus entries if you learned about this giveaway on someone's blog (not a linky). Leave a comment with the blog name

All extra entries listed below are worth one (1) additional admission into this giveaway. Please leave a separate comments for each extra entry you complete)Extra Entries for Supporting the Sponsor:

• Like Zizizie Britches on Facebook (leave FB initials)
  
• Add Zizzies and Izzies to your ♥ favorites on Etsy (leave Etsy name)

Standard Extra Entries:

• Be a current or new follower of Marlie and Me via Google Friend Connect
• Be a current or new subscriber of Marlie and Me via email (subscription must be activated)
• Grab my button (leave the URL in your comment)
• Add Marlie and Me to your blog roll (leave the URL in your comment)
• Follow Marlie and Me at Networked Blogs on Facebook (leave your FB initials)
• Follow me on Twitter and tweet this message (leave the URL to the tweet in your comment): #win a pair of fleece soakers frrom Zizzies and Izzies #clothdiapers @Mommy2Marlie #giveaway ends 12.1 http://tinyurl.com/25k3b5v
• Vote for Marlie and Me at Picket Fence Blogs (click button above Google Friend Connect widget)

The rules:

• This giveaway will end on 12/1/10 at 11:59 pm CST
• Winner will be chosen randomly from all comments posted using random number generator
• The winner will be notified by email and have 48 hours to respond. Please make sure I can contact you either by having an email address visible on your blog profile or leave your email address in your comment(s).
• In the event the prize is not claimed in the allotted time another winner will be chosen. This giveaway is open to US/Canada residents only. Must be at least 18 years of age to participate. Void where prohibited.
• By accepting the prize, the winner is granting permission to be identified as such.The winner's mailing address will be forwarded to the sponsor for prize fulfillment.
• The winner has one (1) month from the date of claiming the prize to report any problems (lost shipment, broken product). I will not be responsible for resolving issues after this time.
• Entries that do not follow instructions or are falsified will be disqualified

Baby Log: 1 Year and 13 Weeks Old

Another Saturday, another birthday party. Marlie has a more active social life than her parents. I kid you not. Yesterday's festivities took place at a kiddie gym. Marlie showed off her gymnastic skills, including a new one: jumping on the trampoline. Her feet don't leave the mat yet, but she know how to bend and push upward.

Other happenings in Marlie's neck of the woods this week...

• She has noticed her shadow for the first time as the sun set in the sun room. She followed it around for awhile and then decided it was not that interesting after all.
• She is enjoying her desk, especially standing on top of it. The desk was supposed to help encourage her independent learning, but I stay busy keeping her from climbing on it. Maybe it was too soon to give it to her. This is on my list of things to discuss with her school director at our next parent-teacher conference.
• Her new teething necklace arrived on Monday and she has been sleeping so much better at night. Damon thinks a big part of the problem was her the bulk of her nighttime diapers. I agree that her new fleece soaker is a lot more comfortable for her (come back for my review and giveaway on Monday!). She tosses and turns a lot less.
  
• I sold some of her old clothes and gear at a new baby consignment shop. I used the money to get her a new winter coat, hat, mittens and some sweaters.
• I won a $25 gift certificate to Lollipop Moon from Baby Making Machine. I already know what I am getting...these metallic red mary janes for Marlie's Christmas outfit: SWEET!
  

Winner of Tropical Traditions Coconut Oil

By Rico Shen (Rico Shen) [CC-BY-SA-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Congratulations to lucky#66...Becky at Becky's Kaleidoscope. She is the random drawing winner of a quart of Tropical Traditions Virgin Coconut Oil.

Thanks to everyone who entered. Remember to check out my other open giveaways!

Random numbers generated Nov 13 2010 at 8:15:2 by www.psychicscience.org

Review: TEK•S Safety Training

As a mom, I believe my #1 priority is the health and safety of my child. I sometimes feel vulnerable when I am out running errands with her by myself. I have often wondered what I would do if I found myself in a dangerous situation like a car-jacking. Would I fight or take flight? I recently learned through the TEK•S online safety training course that the answer depends on the scenario. I also learned that I don't have to feel anxious when I go outside of my home if I am equipped to uses all my senses and resources to be safe.TEK•S was developed by military and law enforcement personnel using best practices from their respective fields to provide the public with the tools to be safe. The founding philosophy of the program the concept of situational awareness. TEK•S defines situational awareness as:

"Situational awareness describes a person’s ability to quickly evaluate his or her surroundings and assess the personal risk potential within / around their environment. The online TEK•S Safety Training Course teaches participants why it is critical to understand and practice situational awareness to be safe and confident, and to stay out of trouble before it even starts!"

Some of the safety skills I gained from the TEK•S course include how to avoid an attack by being aware, projecting myself as a hard target, and listening to my instincts. I also learned how to deal with an attacker...did you know that you should yell "fire!" instead of "help!"?

Less than three days after completing the course, I found myself being followed at the grocery store by a strange man. He made his move in the frozen food section. He casually walked up and asked my name. I instinctively put myself between him and my daughter who was in the shopping cart. As I pushed and walked away I said firmly, "none of your business, I don't want to talk to you." He threw down the sack of potatoes he was carrying! All kinds of alarms went off in my head, but I refused to let him know I was scared. Instead, I huffed and then high-tailed it to the front of the store where I reported his actions to the nearest cashier. She called a store manager and he went looking for him. Meanwhile, me and my daughter got escorted to our car. Even though I was shaking a bit, I felt so empowered!

I recommend the TEK•S program for everyone, especially moms because despite our best intentions we are often open targets for criminals when we are out in public. Take for example how exposed you are when strapping your child in her car seat in the covered garage at the mall. TEK•S can teach you some very practical and effective safety strategies.

The course is 90 minutes long and costs $22.oo, well worth the investment of time and money to gain a better sense of safety.

 This review opportunity was made possible by Business2Blogger. 

world kindness day

Today is World Kindness Day.

It's not a widely-known or mainstream event.

I have to thank Se'lah at Necessary Room for bringing this day to my attention. Se'lah has proposed that we all perform a random act of kindness today. Can you imagine the global impact if we all just showed a little compassion for someone else on this day? She calls it lift as you climb.

Helping your fellow man is as easy as opening up a web browser. There are thousands of wonderful organizations that need donations. But let's not limit ourselves to checkbook charity. I think the real intent of today is to help someone face-to-face. Look into his/her eyes and empathize with that person's plight.

I posted on Thursday about how I plan to demonstrate my capacity to be kind today. I put together care packages of toiletries to deliver to a women's shelter and Damon is driving me around downtown to hand out pairs of new socks to homeless men.

Let's all lift up the human race today. Go out and be kind.

Friday Date Night Movie Must-See: Just Wright

It's been too long since I did a Friday Date Night post!

Here's what you need to do:
Put the kid(s) to bed, grab some of that leftover Halloween candy you got stashed in the vegetable crisper, pop in the movie, sit back and enjoy the show!

This week I recommend: Just Wright

Synopsis: Queen Latifah plays Leslie, a physical therapist and NJ Nets super-fan, who meets her favorite player Scott McKnight in a chance encounter and scores an invite to his birthday party. The ball player, played by rapper Common, falls for her god-sister (I ain't saying she's a gold-digger) and they quickly get engaged. Leslie falls for Scott after she helps him recover from a career-threatening knee injury. Is the feeling mutual or will she remain in the friend-zone?

My Review: Cliches aside, I found this movie absolutely charming. What it lacks in originality, it makes up for with lots of heart. And, if you couldn't tell by the poster, homegirl gets her man!

Things I'm Loving This Thursday

1. World Kindness Day is two days away! Follow Se'Lah's lead in celebrating on November 13 by performing random acts of kindness. I'm making and delivering care packages for a local women's shelter as well as passing out new, clean socks to the homeless downtown...it's starting to get cold here. I've also learned about some wonderful charities in my blog hopping like Graham's Foundation, which is asking for micro-donations to support parents of micro-preemies and Feeding America's Thanksgiving Feast of 9 million, which provides 7 meals for hungry people for every $1 you give. How will you show compassion on World Kindness Day?

2. Hot cocoa is the only good thing about cooler weather. I found some very tasty, all-natural marshmallows at Whole Foods, too. I'm in chocolate heaven!
   
   
3. Good riddance mosquitoes. Oh, that is the other good thing about cold weather.

4. Goofy. It's Marlie's new nickname. Of all the pet names we've tried on her, I think this one will stick. She is such a goof-ball, like her mama.

   
   

What are you loving this Thursday? Link Up!

Wordless Wednesday: Caught in the Act

CSN Stores Review: Lipper's Chalkboard Top Desk with Chair

I (as in me, not the husband-bot) assembled the Marlie's desk on Monday.

all. by. my. self.

It was not really hard once I figured out how to line up the pieces (note to self: next time use the visuals on the instructions as a guide for how to attach the leg frames. I had to unscrew these pieces, turn them around, and switch them several times before I got the holes lined up correctly).

After I put it together, I stepped back and assessed my handiwork...proud I was! When did I start speaking Yoda? Curious.

Marlie adores her new desk as you can see.

And I really like it too because:

• It is easy to assemble, especially if you read the instructions first and use the pictures as a visual guide
• It is sturdy and safe, the top stays open with a hinge to prevent it from collapsing onto little fingers.
• It is made with solid wood, not particle board. The finish is nice, too.
• It is a great value at $67.99 for such a quality desk!

We give the Lipper Chalkboard Top Desk from CSN Stores four thumbs up (because it is kid tested and mother approved)!

CLOSED...$25 My Baby Clothes Boutique Giveaway

I love the holidays! This really is the most wonderful time of the year. When it comes to choosing what your little ones will wear for the holidays, My Baby Clothes Boutique can help you deck them out in style. Their whimsical outfits are great for holiday parties, pictures, or just to get in the spirit of the season! Whether you want casual or formal baby clothes, they carry it all...accessories, too! You will find a wide selection of hair bows, baby hats, flowered infant headbands, baby socks, and baby shoes to complete your child's ensemble. So head on over to My Baby Clothes Boutique and give your baby the gift of great clothes!

Win: One lucky Marlie and Me reader is going to win a $25 gift certificate to My Baby Clothes Boutique!Mandatory first entry: Check out the clothing and accessories at My Baby Clothes Boutique and leave a comment with something you'd buy if you won. If you are commenting as Anonymous, please include first name and an email address
All extra entries listed below are worth one (1) additional admission into this giveaway. Please leave a separate comments for each extra entry you complete)Extra Entries for Supporting the Sponsor:

• Like My Baby Clothes Boutique on Facebook (leave your FB initials)
• Follow My Baby Clothes Boutique on Twitter (leave Twitter name)
• Subscribe to the My Baby Clothes newsletter to get the latest deals and coupons (located at top right of web page)

Standard Extra Entries:

• Be a current or new follower of Marlie and Me via Google Friend Connect
• Be a current or new subscriber of Marlie and Me via email (subscription must be activated)
• Grab my button (leave the URL in your comment)
• Add Marlie and Me to your blog roll (leave the URL in your comment)
• Follow Marlie and Me at Networked Blogs on Facebook (leave your FB initials)
• Follow me on Twitter and tweet this message (leave the URL to the tweet in your comment): #win a $25 gift certificate to @MyBabyClothes Boutique @Mommy2Marlie #giveaway ends 11/26 http://marlieandmommy.blogspot.com
  
• Vote for Marlie and Me at Picket Fence Blogs (click button above Google Friend Connect widget)

The rules:

• This giveaway will end on 11/26/10 at 11:59 pm CST
• Winner will be chosen randomly from all comments posted using Random.org
• The winner will be notified by email and have 48 hours to respond. Please make sure I can contact you either by having an email address visible on your blog profile or leave your email address in your comment(s).
• In the event the prize is not claimed in the allotted time another winner will be chosen. This giveaway is open to US residents only. Must be at least 18 years of age to participate. Void where prohibited.
• By accepting the prize, the winner is granting permission to be identified as such.The winner's mailing address will be forwarded to the sponsor for prize fulfillment.
• The winner has one (1) month from the date of claiming the prize to report any problems (lost shipment, broken product). I will not be responsible for resolving issues after this time.
• Entries that do not follow instructions or are falsified will be disqualified