OZ Naturals Skin Care Review

It's not often I wear make up or do much when it comes to my face/skin. Lately though, my skin has been feeling very dry and wait for this one - I am developing wrinkles around my eyes! Que tears. 29 years old! Must be all the stress and I blame genes.

But, that's okay. I take it all with pride. However, I was contacted by OZ Naturals and asked if I would like to try some products! Of course I jumped at the chance after taking a look at their products and others reviews. I don't put just anything on my skin/face but when I do I make sure it's top notch.

OZ naturals is just that.

ABOUT OZ NATURALS
OZ Naturals – A Leader In Natural Skin Care
"OZ Naturals is committed to the highest formulation standards, and uses only natural/organic active ingredients. Every one of our product formulations undergo extensive clinical testing and always over-deliver on their claims. Before we ever release a product to the public, we make sure that product is extremely effective at performing as it was designed. All of our products are produced in small batches and packaged under secure & sterile conditions in a state of the art, FDA certified facility to ensure optimal potency and freshness.

OZ Naturals products are backed by science and formulated from nature, which prove our products' efficacy sets a new standard for the skin care and anti aging industry. 

Made in the USA, our skincare line has quickly become a trusted brand for those looking for extremely effective products that actually do as claimed. Our formulations are proven to correct signs of aging, protect healthy skin, and prevent future damage from occurring. " - oznaturals.com

I also make sure to verify any products I use are NOT tested on animals, OZ Naturals is absolutely not tested on animals which I was pleasantly surprised to see addressed on the FAQ page on their official website.

Something else I was excited to see on their website in their FAQ:

Can you use OZ Naturals while pregnant or breastfeeding?

While our products contain 98% natural and 72% organic ingredients, you should probably ask your doctor. Some doctors have differing opinions when it comes to natural products. They'll tell you to stay away from something that seems totally harmless and natural, but not say anything against parabens, pabas, and propolyne gylcol…which is in almost every product on the market. However, to be on the safe side check with your doctor first. 

I am breastfeeding so I confirmed with my doctor  and he said I was okay to use the products I have. Seeing them even address this on their website FAQ was a huge plus for me as I never see this.

From OZ Naturals I received.....

I have only been using these products for about a week or so now but my favorite is by far the Super Youth Eye Gel. It has severely decreased the size of the bags/puffiness under my eyes. It's more of a different feeling rather than a visual one, which I'm okay with its been about a week so I'll see how it goes!

About these products
 

20% Vitamin C + Amino + Hyaluronic Acid Serum ($22.49)
OZ Naturals Vitamin C Serum combines the highest quality Vitamin C, and Hyaluronic acid to create a potent antioxidant that goes on smooth and helps protect and brighten your skin throughout the day. This incredible formula provides that youthful glow you've been looking for.

Vitamin C Serum combines the highest quality Vitamin C, and Hyaluronic acid to create this pure, transparent, non-GMO serum that goes on smooth and works deep down below the skin's surface to aid your skin in naturally producing more collagen, something we lose as we get older. In addition, hydration is improved thereby plumping up skin cells to minimize the look of fine lines and wrinkles.

•     Antioxidant formula protects skin from environmental stressors
•     Naturally stimulates collagen creation
•     Hydrates and moisturizes skin
•     Helps nourish cells allowing skin to heal naturally
•     Naturally lifts and firms
•     Made in the USA in our FDA certified facility
•     No Parabens, No Alcohol

 For more info please visit: here

Super Youth Eye Gel ($19.95)
Experience The Most Effective Eye Treatment Designed To Eliminate Dark Circles, Puffiness & Wrinkles!

• This Eye Gel Is Considered To Be The Most Effective & Complete Eye Treatment Available
• Designed To Treat Every Major Concern Including Dark Circles, Puffiness & Wrinkles
• Safe For All Skin Types, Non Comedogenic, Does Not Contain Parabens, Sulfates Or Alcohol
• All Active Ingredients Are 100% Natural & 75% Organic
• Made in the USA In an Advanced FDA Certified Facility

For more info please visit: here

Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin C ($16.45)
Professional Hydration Begins With The Highest Quality Hyaluronic Acid Serum On The Market!

OZ Naturals Hyaluronic Acid Serum deeply hydrates and plumps skin to diminish fine lines and wrinkles. Rich with antioxidant vitamin C, this formula leaves skin soft & rejuvenated & because it's botanically derived, it is considered to be the highest quality HA serum on the market.

The sponge-like matrix of our hyaluronic acid serum holds in the moisture that is responsible for plumping skin and diminishing fine lines and wrinkles. Its formula has been designed to create the perfect mix of ingredients your skin needs to achieve a youthful, lifted glow.

•     Plump & hydrates dry dull skin
•     Assists in balancing skin moisture levels
•     Speeds up skin-cell turnover, keeping new and healthy skin on the surface
•     Diminishes surface lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen
•     Naturally lifts and firms sagging

 For more info please visit: here

So far I can say without a doubt I absoutely love the Super Youth Eye Gel. It's made under my eyes less dark and puffy and I feel like it's even firmed up the skin somewhat. The vitamin C Hyaluronic Acid and the Vitamin C Hyaruronic Acid and Amino blend I use before bed after washing my face and neck. It's made my skin really smooth but because I don't have any wrinkles around these areas I'm not finding a huge difference, however my skin does feel much smoother and firmer all over where I have been using all products. I've also noticed a decrease in blemishes which I still get during my monthly, and this is a HUGE plus. I will continue using all three of these products especially as I get older and those fun wrinkles appear.

All in all I would recommend trying Oz Natural products if you are looking for a natural skin care line that is effective and safe.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I was given this products complimentary to review. However all opinions are mine and 100% true.

Erin Condren Holiday Collection Review & Giveaway!

Now I know it's only October but after trying to decided a very critical decision the past 2 days I realized I needed to get this up sooner rather than later.

HOLIDAY CARDS

Yes! That's right. It's time to discuss Holiday cards. Every year we have to decide personalized or generic store brand. Well, let me stop you right there and tell you - after you see the Erin Condren holiday cards you won't ever want to buy generic store brand cards again. Ever.

As most of you know my love for all things Erin Condren runs deep. Very deep. So there's no surprise that when I was asked to host a review for their Holiday collection I not only jumped at the chance but I squeeled with glee (no seriously, you probably heard me!)

So, here we go.

Amazing, right?Perfection is how I would describe this.

Of course these wouldn't be Erin Condren holiday cards if they didn't have a few types of cards to choose from.

Premium Cardstock CLASSIC, Double Thick FOIL, Premium Cardstock POSTCARD & Premium Cardstock NON Photo.

Personalization and Selection is one of the many reasons I choose Erin Condren for all my stationary, planning and card needs! Want photos on your card or maybe lots of photos? No worries, both are an option! There is even an option for no photos!

The prices are great too, very reasonable they start at as low as $1.95 and go up to $3.75. All come with envelopes which you get to choose the color of and even a choice of return labels to match!

As mentioned above in the photo there is even a choice between card stock. What do I mean? Well, see above where it says Double Thick? You can choose if you want Premium (130lb)  or Double Thick (260lb) - twice as nice! You can also pick if you want cards with rounded edges or straight. You can choose between a greeting that says Happy Holidays or Merry Christmas. You can add family names, pet names, you name it you can do it even wait for it - get FOIL cards!

Yep, that's right. FOIL CARDS. Beautifully hand stamped foil cards come in Fluer Feliz and Paisley.

There are so many gorgeous options to choose from 

I have tried for the last 2 days to choose the perfect ones for us and I finally decided on what cards I would go with after playing with a few ideas. This was so hard because lets face it ALL of them would be awesome! But choosing just one, was difficult. who knew? When there's so many beautiful options to choose from it can be a bit overwhelming but the more I thought about it, looked at the choices and then held these beautiful samples in my hand my mind was made up.

I can't share exactly what I ordered because I haven't gotten them yet, but I did choose FOIL! I am a huge sucker for EC foil. SO. GORGEOUS.

There are different quantities to choose from. 10-300, and if you need more I am sure you can contact them for more. I only chose 10 as I only send to a few select family members and didn't need a huge amount, but if that is what you need the option is there.

I would suggest ordering sooner rather than later. As the Holiday's approach I know for certain lots of people will be ordering. You don't want to miss out!

Also, can we please take a moment and talk about this wonderful Candle Erin Condren has?

Island Fleur. Wow, wow,WOW. This candle smells like nothing I have ever smelt before. I've tried a lot of candles, A LOT and none of them hold the scent like the Island Fleur and none of them are as pretty either. The smell isn't overwhelming, but it's clam and fills your house up with the smell of flowers and if you close your eyes you maybe could just imagine yourself somewhere on an island sipping on a piña colada! It's just that good. I'm in love. So much so I just had to order two more!

Alright, so now you've seen all that Erin Condren has to offer for Holiday Cards, so now is your chance to go order some! Below is a code you can even use to get 30% off until 10/31/2014. You can also click here to use my referral code and earn $10 off your first order!

Giveaway!

Of course the amazing and generous team over at Erin Condren wanted to give two special readers a shot at TWO $100 gift cards to ErinCondren.com to help purchase your Holiday Cards! Yep, that's right TWO WINNERS will each get One (1) $100 gift card each to ErinCondren.com

Thank you to ErinCondren.com for this wonderful giveaway. Giveaway is open WORLDWIDE.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I was compensated in some way for this review. However all opinions are mine and 100% true. 

Giveaway open worldwide. TWO WINNERS will receive 1 (one) $100 ErinCondren.com Gift Card each..  Winners will have 24 hours from prize announcement to claim  prize before a new winner will be chosen instead. Giveaway is open from October 16 - October 23 at 11:59p, winner will be chosen and posted/emailed the afternoon of the 24th . Good luck!

Skinn Cosmetics Collagenesis Daily Defense Review & Giveaway

 I'm excited to share this review with you. I don't like to wear make up often especially when I'm home all day and just have to run out to the store or bus stop to pick up my kids, I hate taking the time to do make up for just a quick trip out! So, My face is exposed to the sun a lot and even gloomy day's those UV rays are strong. My nose especially is highly attracted to the UVs and I usually come home with a red nose (yes, like Rudolph!) from being exposed to the sun - so awful in the summertime. The rest of my face gets the red glow too but not like my nose and most sunscreens trigger my migraines with their awful smell.

So when I was contacted to conduct a review for Skinn I was more than on board.

If you don't know what Skinn Cosmetics is you are missing out! Here is some info on this great company..

- - 

"When Skinn was launched in 2002 the questions most asked were “How are you going to do it? How are you going to give us more products, better products, and keep them at a comparable price?” The answer was really quite simple. We learned that the money at the highest levels of the big cosmetics houses is not spent on the product. In fact, it seems to go everywhere but the product: ad campaigns, department store counter space, Park Avenue offices, and, most of all, packaging. Believe it or not, most companies spend more money on the container and fancy boxes than on the product that’s inside. Here at Skinn we focus on what goes into the jar and how it will make you look, not how the jar looks.

Skinn Cosmetics incorporates the time-honored methods of mothers and grandmothers who made their own soaps, creams and masks at home using pure, natural ingredients. These classic traditions combined with the most advanced technology and delivery systems available differentiate Skinn from all other cosmetic brands. Skinn treatment and color cosmetics are famously full of actives, yet devoid of unnecessary water, fillers, or excess packaging. To ensure the highest quality possible, Skinn built its own production facility at the company’s Southern California headquarters. Today, Skinn is a top selling international brand on ShopHQ (USA), The Shopping Channel (Canada) and Television Shopping Network (Australia).

Skinn Cosmetics are available only through www.skinn.com, live televised home shopping, and exclusive, privately owned spas throughout North America. This careful distribution strategy has allowed us to reach the maximum amount of people, while keeping overhead very low. We don’t have expensive retail shops or New York office suites; you won’t see costly magazine or prime time TV ads. What we do have are some of the finest cosmetics ever made. You’ll see the difference!

Our company motto is “Bringing Beauty to the World”. We live this every day in what we do and how we make you look." -- skinn.com

- - 

Sounds great right?

I received Skinn's Collagenesis Daily Defense which is a scent free and has SPF 30. Broad Spectrum. Perfect for my face!

It doesn't look or feel like your regular ol' heavy sunscreen either, it's more like a moisturizer..

I've used it for a week now. Every morning after washing my face I apply a small amount on my face and not one day have I had that awful red nose. I haven't gotten any headaches or migraines from the smell either. It isn't strong, or sunscreen smelling. I am very impressed.

- -

"Skinn’s Collagenesis Daily Defense is a light-weight, quickly absorbing sunscreen serum that provides SPF 30 and broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Formulated with an advanced encapsulated delivery system for immediate and long-term moisturization, as well as a full array of Vitamins A, C and E to provide ongoing antioxidant protection against free radical damage. Features Oat Beta-Glucan, a powerful naturally derived anti-aging ingredient that perfectly complements this sophisticated sun protection formula by soothing previously damaged skin tissues, while helping inhibit the formation of new sunburn cells. Fragrance-free and great for all skin types, Collagenesis Daily Defense is an easy and obvious addition to your skincare routine. Use it on your face, neck and décolleté for a non-greasy, long-lasting and beneficial defense against UV damage. " -- skinn.com

- - 

I have used Daily Defense on my whole face for the past week and I'm happy to report my skin is not only very smooth but I've had zero redness too!

Retailing for $35 - for a 50ML bottle, the Collagensis daily Defense is well worth the price. I now keep right beside my skin apply it every morning after washing my face no matter what the weather is like.

"Features Oat Beta-Glucan, a powerful naturally derived anti-aging ingredient that perfectly complements this sophisticated sun protection formula by soothing previously damaged skin tissues, while helping inhibit the formation of new sunburn cells."

So I now get aging/wrinkle protection as well as sun? Talk about a win/win.

Now for the exciting part --   GIVEAWAY!

Skinn Cosmetics has generously offered ONE lucky reader a full size 50ML bottle of Collagnesis Daily Defense!

This giveaway is open to US and Canadian Residents!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I was given this products complimentary to review. However all opinions are mine and 100% true. 

Giveaway open to US & Canadian Residents. ONE WINNER will receive 1 (one) 50mL bottle of Skinn Cosmetics Collagenesis Daily Defense ..  You have 24 hours from prize announcement to claim your prize before a new winner will be chosen instead. Giveaway is open from Oct 8 - Oct 15 at 11:59p, winner will be chosen and posted/emailed the afternoon of the 15th . Good luck!

Erin Condren Spiral Notebook Review & Giveaway

As you all know I am absolutely obsessed with all things Erin Condren. I have a planner for 2014, and 2015, I have an address book, a on the go notebook and I think every accessory available!

Well, Did you know Erin Condren recently launched a brand new notebook? The Spiral notebook?

Yep, see my photo above? That's my new Spiral notebook! I am in love. It's really big too, look at the difference between my original On the go notebook and the new Spiral Notebook.

Crazy, huh? It's amazing.

"The Personalized Spiral Notebook was designed to help you note-take or list-make, but best of all...you can create your own custom dividers too (sold separately)! Create a new section for each subject and use the back side as a dry erase board for assignments and weekly to-dos. Take it to class or to committees, study groups or book clubs...this Personalized Notebook can go with you everywhere!

This hand-coiled beauty is bursting with inspiration, bold colors and creative accessories too. Beyond the 150 colorful lined pages, the 2 sided pocket folder is great for wrangling loose papers, hand outs or study guides. A bound in zip lock pocket includes an assortment of gift labels and bookplates and is also a great place to hold receipts, photos and much more. The repositionable stickers are great for creating your own tabs, adding colorful interjections or highlighting new lecture dates. Add note pads, colorful markers, elastic bands, custom stickers and more to create the most YOUnique Notebook that is perfect for YOU." - ErinCondren.com

With over 150 pages, this new Spiral Notebook is 11.5” long and 9” wide.. It comes with the new INTERCHANGEABLE, laminated, heavy duty 10mil personalized cover of your choice. Perfect for a gift for a friend, college student, teacher or even your mom, how about a Birthday or Mothers Day?! You can design your own mothers rings or design your own perfect cover for mom! Such a perfect gift!

The inside still looks as great as the other notebook, and has the Keep It Together folder in the back - now a bit bigger to fit the bigger book, But still the great folder! I am really impressed with this Spiral Notebook... So much so I have partnered with ErinCondren.com to bring you an amazing giveaway!!!

The Giveaway One winner will win ONE (1) $75 coupon code to pick up their own Spiral Notebook! HIZZZZAH! Oh whats that? A Sprial Notebook doesn't  cost $75? NOPE. So there's some EXTRA money for some extra goodies!! SO AWESOME! Please see below for restrictions, as some restrictions do apply.

a Rafflecopter giveaway Restrictions: Code can be used on the spiral notebook category & add-ons only (dividers, extra covers, bands, markers) only and cannot be combined with any other coupon codes or promos. It is also good for ONE TIME USE ONLY and is not valid towards tax and shipping. Coupon Code will expire on September 30th, 2014.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I was given this products complimentary to review. However all opinions are mine and 100% true. 

Giveaway open worldwide. ONE WINNER will receive 1 (one) ErinCondren.com Coupon Code ..  You have 24 hours from prize announcement to claim your prize before a new winner will be chosen instead. Giveaway is open from Sept 19 - Sept 25 at 11:59p, winner will be chosen and posted/emailed the afternoon of the 26th . Good luck!

Ricky Ricotta’s MIGHTY ROBOT SERIES Review & Prize Pack Giveaway

I'm really excited for this review. Poor Jordan has been asking a good while when he would be able to help me with a review so this came at the perfect time! If you've read my blog for a while you will know Jordan who just turned 11 yesterday, is a huge reader. He is above grade level when it comes to reading.. In Grade 4 he was tested and found to read at a tenth grade level. So you could say for sure reading is one of his major passions.

Jordan has a lot of the Captain Underpants books, so when he found out he was going to be reading Ricky Ricotta's Mighty Robots he was really excited, Dav Pilkey is one of his favorites. If you have kids and they like to read then these books would be fantastic for them! Jordan talked about these books for a couple days and wants to read them again...

He read the whole entire series of Mighty Robots in 2 days. He loved them, so of course Kyla had to read them too - she also loved them!

Their favorite part of the whole thing? They could both relate. Hard time making friends? Bullies? These books are perfect for kids of all ages, especially in grade school because not only does it touch on these important topics but it also teaches kids important lessons about friendship.

There is 8 books in the series - we read the very first 4!

ABOUT THE SERIES

From Dav Pilkey, creator of Captain Underpants, and acclaimed artist Dan Santat, an out-of-this-world friendship adventure with brand-new full-color illustrations and mini-comics throughout!

Ricky Ricotta is a little mouse with BIG problems! Every day he is picked on by the neighborhood bullies. He lives in Squeakyville with his mother and father, and being an only mouse, he is often lonely. That is until SOMETHING BIG HAPPENS! A giant flying robot enters Ricky’s life and an unlikely friendship is born! Together, Ricky and his Robot must save the planet from a galaxy bursting with bad guys!

 
ABOUT BOOK ONE: RICKY RICOTTA’S MIGHTY ROBOT

Little Ricky Ricotta has a problem: the bullies at school pick on him all the time. Until one day, he saves the life of a mighty robot. Together, Ricky and his Robot face the bullies, and save Squeakyville from a giant evil lizard monster. That's what friends are for!

ABOUT BOOK TWO: RICKY RICOTTA’S MIGHTY ROBOT VS MUTANT MOSQUITOS FROM MERCURY
Mr. Mosquito hates Mercury. The days are so hot, they melt his flip-flops, and the nights are so cold, his toothpaste freezes solid! He's decided to take over Earth instead. Ricky and his Robot must stop his army of massive Mutant Mosquitoes!


ABOUT BOOK THREE: RICKY RICOTTA’S MIGHTY ROBOT VS VOODOO VULTURES FROM VENUS

Victor Von Vulture hates Venus. His toasted cheese sandwiches are always way too gooey, and ice cream melts in a second! So he and his army of Voodoo Vultures try to cast a spell on the Earth. It's up to Ricky and his Robot to stop them!


ABOUT BOOK FOUR: RICKY RICOTTA’S MIGHTY ROBOT VS THE MECHA-MONKEYS FROM MARS

Little Ricky Ricotta has a problem: the bullies at school pick on him all the time. Until one day, he saves the life of a mighty robot. Together, Ricky and his Robot face the bullies, and save Squeakyville from a giant evil lizard monster. That's what friends are for!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

When Dav Pilkey was a kid, he suffered from ADHD, reading challenges, and behavioral problems. Dav was so disruptive in class that his teachers made him sit out in the hallway every day. Dav loved to draw and make up stories, so he spent this time creating his own original comic books.

In second grade, Dav created a comic book about a superhero named Captain Underpants. His teacher ripped it up and told him he couldn’t spend the rest of his life making silly books. Fortunately, Dav was not a very good listener.

Dav has written and illustrated many bestselling books for children, including the Captain Underpants series with over 70 million books in print, the Ricky Ricotta series, and The Paperboy, a Caldecott Honor Book.

Dav grew up in Ohio and now lives with his wife in the Pacific Northwest. You can learn more about him at www.pilkey.com.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Dan Santat attended the University of California, San Diego, where he received a degree in biology. Thankfully, he had a change of heart and went on to pursue an illustration degree from the Art Center College of Design, where he graduated with honors.

After a few years of designing art for video games, Dan switched his attention to children’s books. Since then, Dan has written and illustrated several bestselling books for children, including The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend and Sidekicks. Dan also created the Disney animated hit The Replacements.

Dan was born in Brooklyn, New York, and now lives in Southern California with his family. You can find out more by visiting his website at www.dantat.com.

GIVEAWAY!

How would you like to win these first 4 books for yourself? Well, here's your chance! Enter below for your chance to win..

RICKY RICOTTA’S MIGHTY ROBOT SERIES Prize Pack

Prizing includes color copies of:

•   Ricky Ricotta’s Mighty Robot
• Ricky Ricotta’s Mighty Robot vs Mutant Mosquitos from Mercury
• Ricky Ricotta’s Mighty Robot vs the Voodoo Vultures from Venus
• Ricky Ricotta’s Mighty Robot vs The Mecha-Monkeys from Mars.

Prizing & samples courtesy of Scholastic
Giveaway open to US addresses only. Thank you.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

ADDITIONAL FUN TO BE HAD WITH RICKY RICOTTA

Check out the Classroom Guide

View the Book Trailer

Play the Make Your Own Robot Game

Read Chapter Excerpts & a Mini-Comic Excerpt

Download the Character Cards

Check out Ricky Ricotta Printables

OFFICIAL LINKS TO STAY CONNECTED WITH ALL THINGS RICKY RICOTTA

Visit the Ricky Ricotta Official Site Learn more about author Dav PilkeyFollow Scholastic and ScholasticTeach on Twitter

Like Scholastic Parents and Scholastic Teachers on Facebook
 

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I was given these products complimentary to review. However all opinions are mine and 100% true.

Giveaway open to US residents only. ONE WINNER will receive 1 Ricky Ricotta Mighty Robot Series prize pack  .. You have 24 hours from prize announcement to claim your prize before a new winner will be chosen instead. Giveaway is open from Sept 8 - Sept 15 at 11:59p, winner will be chosen and posted/emailed the afternoon of Sept 16th . Good luck!

BobaAir Review

As many of you know I love Babywearing. I have used Boba for 3 years now and I absolutely love their SSC's. I have used many others but to me none are as wonderful as Boba.

I am a Boba Ambassador but I can assure you my reviews are 100% my own, and true. I really do love Boba.

Today I am sharing my review for the BobaAir with you.

I received the BobaAir in Gray, which is one of my favorite colours! It will also be much cooler in the coming weeks in this heat!

"The BobaAir is an ultra lightweight baby carrier that is great for travelers or any parent on the go. It folds up into its own hood pouch to be easily stored in a purse or diaper bag! The BobaAir is intended for children 15-45lbs." - bobafamily.com

• Weight Range: 15-45lbs
• Waist Belt: 25"-58"
• Fits Adults: 5'0"-6'3"
• Buckles Used: Duraflex
• Zippers Used: YKK
• Shoulder strap length: 20" to 40"
• Fabric 100% Nylon
• Height of the body of the carrier: 15.7". Height of the waist belt: 5.1"
• Width of the Seat of the Carrier: 12.5"
• Weight of the carrier: .7 lbs
• Made in China

We went for a family walk and decided I would wear Justin in the BobaAir to give it a test! Not only was it ultra comfortable, it was also extremely lightweight for me and Justin loved it too! Not bulky or hot which is a huge plus in these hot summer months.

It wasn't a really hot evening when we went out so I am

waiting for a super hot day to bring it along with us again to see how it fairs but I have a feeling it will be super airy for the both of us. Babywearing in the summer can be super hot especially while I'm still losing this last bit of baby weight so this is a carrier that is perfect for summer heat.

I will admit I was very surprised to use the BobaAir and not have any big comfort issues. While it may not look very comfortable at first glance, it really is.

I wore the BobaAir for just over and hour in total this outing. No padding didn't really make too much of an issue for us. I could however start to feel a bit of discomfort in my shoulders nearing the end of the walk when Justin wanted to nurse and go to sleep so he was a bit squirmy... Which is when I think the padded shoulder straps would have prevented but I really have no big complaints.

I wore it again to run to the store last night and again, no complaints. It's simply a great carrier. My favorite part about it? It folds its self down into a pouch that can be taken anywhere and is so super compact! With a price point of $65 you can't go wrong!

I will of course use my Boba 4g and beloved favorite 2g for long outings and trips but for short walks or grocery trips the BobaAir is a fantastic choice! I will absolutely keep it in my purse and diaper bag to use on the go!

If you are looking for a budget friendly, good sturdy carrier without the bulk, weight and comfort compromise the BobaAir is a perfect choice!

As always, I wanted to remind about safe babywearing. I check the hashtag on Instagram often and see a lot of people babywearing incorrectly.... It takes time and practice (heck I can't even wrap on my back yet, I'm too scared!) so please do your research and practice safe babywearing!

 

You can find Boba at: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Web

Disclosure: This is a compensated sponsored post. I am a Boba ambassador. 

However all opinions and views expressed are mine and 100% true. 

The Baby Tree Prize Pack Giveaway {USA ONLY}

THE BABY TREE (ages 5-8)
By Sophie Blackall
In stores May 1, 2014

I am so thrilled to bring you this giveaway this week. What a wonderful book this is, and I think if you have a child between the ages of 5-8 this is a perfect book for you! We got a copy of this book and my 2 daughters love reading it over and over, and my soon to be 5 year old son (this Friday! wah!!) has gotten me to read it to him twice now too! It's really great. If you have children, or know children at the age of questions or if you have more than 1 child, a new baby or are expecting a baby... You need this book!

Not only is The Baby Tree full of great photos to help show the kids what is being talked about but it's so well written that it really does help explain in a much more clear way. I always had trouble answering this question as more babies came into our family. I wasn't too sure how much to share, what were the "Age appropriate" words and ways to explain where babies come from... My kids really enjoyed this book and at the end of the book there's even more age appropriate ways to explain into more details, which I thought was just great! After reading this book my 6, 7 and almost 5 year old were happy, and excited with what they'd read... And I'm sure more questions will come the older they get and the more they read this book, but I feel like it's help paint a more clear picture for them and I will be able to tackle, in an appropriate way for their ages, any questions that do come about in the future!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Sooner or later, every child will ask, Where do babies come from? Answering this question has never been this easy or entertaining! Join a curious little boy who asks everyone from his babysitter to the mailman, getting all sorts of funny answers along the way, before his parents gently set him straight.

New from award-winning author and illustrator Sophie Blackall comes a beautiful picture book full of playful details to help answer the age-old-question..where do babies come from?

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR

 SOPHIE BLACKALL is the illustrator of several award-winning books, including Ruby’s Wish by Shirin Yim Bridges, Meet Wild Boars by Meg Rosoff, Pecan Pie Baby by Jacqueline Woodson, and the Ivy and Bean books by Annie Barrows. Her artwork has also appeared in various magazines and exhibitions. Previously she lived in Sydney, Australia, and has had jobs in a shoe shop and a robot factory.

PRAISE FOR THE BABY TREE

“Blackall once again excels at portraying a thoughtful child with a rich inner life” —Publishers Weekly, Starred Review



“Blackall’s text is straightforward, calm, and reassuring without being clinical. Her Chinese-ink and watercolor illustrations make the most of the narrator’s imaginative flights of fancy…cute as a button.” —The Horn Book, Starred Review



“A delightfully age-appropriate way to give young children the facts about contraception and birth…Another wonderful contribution from Blackall.”

—School Library Journal, Starred Review.

 OFFICIAL LINKS

·         Visit the author’s website

·         Watch The Baby Tree video

·         Follow Penguin Kids on Twitter and Facebook




GIVEAWAY! it's story time with The Baby Tree!

One (1) winner receives The Baby Tree and a soft kid’s blanket for story time

Prizing & samples  courtesy of Penguin Books USA

Open to USA Addresses ONLY. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I was given this products complimentary to review. However all opinions are mine and 100% true.

Giveaway open to US residents only. ONE WINNER will receive 1 The Baby Tree book and a soft kids blanket .. You have 24 hours from prize announcement to claim your prize before a new winner will be chosen instead. Giveaway is open from June 2 - June 9 at 11:59p, winner will be chosen and posted/emailed the afternoon of June 10th . Good luck!

Babywearing: Hotslings Review

I was recently sent this Hotslings sling to review and let me tell you -- I absolutely love Babywearing so I was excited for the chance to try the Hotslings because I hadn't ever tried on before. I wasn't so sure which size to get so I asked for a Large in AP Black.

It is a little bit big on me, but I think once baby grows it won't be much of an issue - plus I can toddler wear with it since my 3 year old doesn't weigh too much more than my 8 month old (I know!) hes just taller! 

I decided to go on a walk using the sling. It was super easy to put on, adjust and keep baby comfortable and in the correct position in. I was impressed. I wasn't so sure how I'd like the adjustable straps but it worked really well, and baby was good and snug in the sling.

I'm used to SSC's and Ring Slings which have quickly become my favorite, so this wasn't a huge switch for me. Justin is 8 months old and likes being held a lot. Most of the day actually, so it's important for me to have a carrier that is not only safe, easy to use but comfortable for the both of us. I'm happy to say our walk lasted just under an hour and I felt nothing. My back wasn't in pain, my side wasn't affected by his 20+lbs. It was wonderful. 

 

 Hotslings have full instructions on their website to learn how to use the Sling, they also have a full sizing chart available to make sure you choose the right size for you!

One of The most important parts of Babywearing - is not only being close to your baby but SAFETY. I can't tell you how many times I've searched a #babywearing hastag on Instagram and seen incorrect use of carriers and slings. It's so important to make sure you read about the speficic sling and carrier you are going to use and wear it properly. Not only for your back and shoulders but for baby's safety, and hips!

Hotslings has a great safety section on their website to show you exactly how to wear a Hotslings sling.. Plus a whole list of safe instructions! For smaller babies it's very important to make sure baby's face and chin aren't covered up!

If you are looking for a good, non-bulky, comfortable carrier that isn't tricky to get on I highly suggest a Hotslings Carrier! I know I'll get a lot of use out of this one this summer, I plan to keep it in my bag and have it with me at all times... You never know when baby or toddler will NEED to be held and the ease of this sling will make it easy to get on especially on the go!

Disclosure: This is a compensated sponsored post. I received this product complimentary for review purposes The views and opinions are my own and 100% true.

Monthly A Baby Bag Reveal!

I'm so excited. My monthly A Baby Bag has arrived, and it's just getting better and better!  This is what I got in my bag this month:

 

Budding Minds Humpty Dumpty Storybook, Do More Bar, Baltic Amber Necklace and a Corduroy book

Can I just say that the ladies over at A Baby Bag truly outdo themselves every month. I have yet to be disappointed. Justin clings to the Humpty Dumpty book and doesn't like anyone touching it. Kyla and Ava have read the Corduroy book more times than I can count and the Do More Bar? well, lets focus on that for a second...

AMAZING.

 

We got the Cherry Almond bar. It was incredible. YES, I tried it! Actually I split it with Jackson, and he loved it - otherwise I would have eaten the whole thing! I had never heard of the Do More Bars until I got this bag this month, but it got me curious so I googled and found the official website. The story of the bar reminds me of myself, trying to make good healthy choices when it comes to food for my kids that aren't full of junk. So I could relate.

 I read all the ingredients in the bars and I think my kids would like most, if not all the bars they offer. I was a little disappointed to find out though they don't ship outside the USA. But, if they ever do they will have a customer, RIGHT HERE! Very, very good!

So, this month was a win for me again. Great job A Baby Bag I am impressed!

If you would like to order you can do so here.

There are 2 bags to choose from. Baby and Toddler. You can sign up to receive them once a month OR sign up to try one to see if you will like it, and then you can get them when and if you choose to!

They are $47/US and $50/CAN - And most definitely worth it. You get full sized items, and I've always gotten 4-5 items in each bag! Amazing deal, and would make an amazing Birthday, Baby Shower or Just because gift for any mom, baby or toddler!

Giveaway: The Very Fairy Princess Collection {USA ONLY}

We are a huge family of book lovers in our house! So when I was asked to do this giveaway for the Very Fairy Princess collection! I was more than happy to jump at the chance!

I was lucky enough to be sent one of the books from the collection. We got the "The Very Fairy Princess Graduation Girl" book and we absolutely love it. Not just my two girls, but I thought it was a really sweet book that actually had a lot of meaning for us. My girls recently switched schools and aren't having the easiest time adjusting, and are still a bit iffy about school. So although they aren't graduating - a lot of the story really applied in our situation and we've read it quite a few times since getting it!

Kyla even likes reading it herself, and has asked me to get her the whole collection for her Birthday in October!

 The book is extremely well written, both Kyla and I can read it, and she didn't have to struggle with any of the words. She is a bit behind with her reading but read this book with ease. The writing is a good size, and the pictures are amazingly illustrated.

Ava is in grade 1 and also read the book with ease. She was able to also sound out words, but look at the photos if she needed any assistance and was able to figure it out. The pictures also kept the girls focus on the pages and not wandering while we were reading, this was a HUGE plus for us!

ABOUT THE BOOK 

- I received "A Very Fairy Princess Graduation Girl"

While her friends and family may not believe in fairies, Geraldine knows, deep down, that she is a VERY fairy princess.

This is the fifth adventure in the adorable, sparkly, sweet Very Fairy Princess series from celebrated children’s book author Julie Andrews (best known for The Sound of Music, Mary Poppins and The Princess Diaries) and her daughter Emma Walton Hamilton.

In this new tale, the end of the school year is here, and Very Fairy Princess Gerry is getting ready to graduate! She always loves a celebration, but can't help but feel a little sad as she empties her cubby, takes down her art projects, and says goodbye to her class pet, Houdini the hamster. She's also a little nervous about leaving Miss Pym... what if her new teacher doesn't let Gerry wear her wings and crown? Change can be hard, even for a fairy princess!  Thankfully, she realizes that new things can bring their own sparkle.  A perfectly delightful addition to your child’s bookshelf.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Julie Andrews is one of the most recognized figures in the world of entertainment, best known for her performances in The Sound of Music, Mary Poppins, and The Princess Diaries. Julie has been a celebrated children's book author for over thirty years, and her works include Mandy, The Last of the Really Great Whangdoodles, and the Little Bo series. Her memoir, Home, was #1 on the New York Times bestseller list.

Emma Walton Hamilton is a bestselling children's book author, editor, arts educator, and theater professional, and author of Raising Bookworms: Getting Kids Reading for Pleasure and Empowerment. Together with her mother, Julie Andrews, she has coauthored many books for young readers, including the New York Times bestselling Very Fairy Princess series, the Dumpy the Dump Truck series, Simeon's Gift, The Great American Mousical, and the New York Times bestselling Julie Andrews' Collection of Poems, Songs, and Lullabies, a book for families to treasure and share.

GIVEAWAY!!!

Spread your sparkle with the Very Fairy Princess collection! - in stores April 8, 2014

 Winner receives the complete collection of The Very Fairy Princess (6 picture books)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Prizing & Samples courtesy of Little, Brown - - - Giveaway open to US addresses only

PLEASE VISIT THESE OFFICIAL LINKS

· Visit The Very Fairy Princess website

· Visit the authors’ sites: Julie Andrews & Emma Walton Hamilton

· Follow Little, Brown Kids on Twitter and Facebook

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I was given this products complimentary to review. However all opinions are mine and 100% true.

Giveaway open to US residents only. ONE WINNER will receive 1 (one) the Very Fairy Princess collection of 6 books ..  You have 24 hours from prize announcement to claim your prize before a new winner will be chosen instead. Giveaway is open from May 5 - May 12 at 11:59p, winner will be chosen and posted/emailed the afternoon of May 13th . Good luck!