Today’s Farm Fruit Snacks Review
Written by valmg on September 28, 2009 – 10:25 pm
It’s not always easy to find a pre-packaged snack that isn’t junk food. Recently I learned about Today’s Farm Fruit snacks from Justus Foods.
Today’s Farm Fruit Snacks are freeze dried snacks made from real fruit. They are cholesterol free, fat free, low calorie and contain no preservatives. They’re even gluten-free, which means CJ can eat them! There are four varieties available - Strawberries, Cinnamon Apple, Pineapple and Peach. Of the four the only variety with anything other than fruit is the Cinnamon Apple, which contains cinnamon and sugar. Additional varieties are planned for the future. Except for the strawberries, the snacks come in a .75 ounce bag. The strawberries come in a .50 ounce bag and have recently been updated to include whole strawberries instead of slices or wedges. The foil lined bags are the perfect size for lunches and travel, as well as a quick snack at home.
I’d never had freeze dried fruit snacks, unless you count the strawberries in Special K. I received one bag of each variety for this review. I was pleased to find the fruit to be fresh and flavorful. Everything tasted exactly like fresh fruit except for the texture. These fruit snacks are crispy and crunch. My favorite is the Cinnamon Apple. CJ’s favorite was the Pineapple. RB liked the peach. The size of the pieces are perfect for snacking. What would be neat is if they offered a smaller size piece so that people could mix them into their own cereal mixes at home.
Today’s Farm Fruit Snacks are available for purchase online and sell for $2.00 per bag. they are also available in larger sizes.
Kokopax Tote Winner
Written by valmg on September 22, 2009 – 4:44 am
To select the winner of this giveaway I put the number of entries into the Random Sequence Generator on random.org. I matched the number that came out on top to the comment bearing the same number and made sure the comment was eligible. A screenshot is attached.
The winner of the Kokopax Tote giveaway is #80 Heather s!
Congratulations! Please contact me within 48 hours to confirm that you wish to accept this prize, and please include your mailing address in your reply.
Thanks to all who entered the giveaway! Please consider subscribing to my feed so you do
TinyTongs Winner
Written by valmg on September 16, 2009 – 4:58 am
To select the winner of this giveaway I put the number of entries into the Random Sequence Generator on random.org. I matched the number that came out on top to the comment bearing the same number and made sure the comment was eligible. A screenshot is attached.
The winner of the TinyTongs giveaway is #9 Julie!
Congratulations! Please contact me within 48 hours to confirm that you wish to accept this prize, and please include your mailing address in your reply.
Thanks to all who entered the giveaway! Please consider subscribing to my feed so you don’t miss out on the latest posts, reviews and giveaways.
Kokopax Blakely Ring Tote Review And Giveaway
Written by valmg on September 12, 2009 – 5:23 pm
I like big bags. Not only do I like them, I need them. Ever since I got pregnant with TJ I started carrying big bags. After all, small bags won’t hold all of the stuff I carry. When TJ was a baby and I was a new mother I carried everything but the kitchen sink in my plastic Pooh diaper bag. I loved the size of that thing but hated that it cracked and eventually looked nasty. CJ is 10 now. He requires a special diet and still has some accidents so I still carry everything but the kitchen sink in my bag, which is why I accepted the offer to review the Kokopax Blakely Ring Tote.
Kokopax was founded in 2007 by Sarah Spoor, a mother of four young children. Sarah created the popular Kokopax Classic Carrier as an update to an older style of Gerry backpacks that she liked to carry her children in. The kokopax collection includes a line of high quality, modern, lightweight framed carriers along with coordinating totes and sun hats for baby.
The Kokopax Blakely Ring Tote is no average baby gear tote. The feel of the 18″ x 4 ½” x 18 ” tote is impressive, it’s very solid. The tote is made of 100% cotton canvas and has a durable nylon lining. Inside the tote there is a bottle compartment, three roomy pockets, a matching mini tote and a key fob. It easily holds all of my stuff - keys, cell phone, checkbook, wallet, change purse, planner, old planner, business cards, ipod, brush, contact lens case, eyeglasses, saline, note pad and pens - with lots of room to spare for when I carry juice boxes, pullups, travel wipes and gluten-free snacks. Even with all of that it’s still not full. I’m pretty sure I could fit a netbook in there too. What I like best about the tote is the workmanship - it’s sturdy and well put together. The available patterns are modern, making it easy to use the tote for any purpose whether or not you have children. You could even use this tote as a purse if you wanted. I did and received lots of compliments.
The Kokopax Blakely Ring Tote is available in six custom fabric designs: bubbles, buds, sailor, espresso, garden and licorice and has a recommended retail price of $79.99. Kokopax products, including the Blakely Ring Tote, may be purchased online at www.kokopax.com. Use coupon code mkia2009 for 10% discount on any order.
GIVEAWAY
One winner will receive a Kokopax Blakely Ring tote of their own!
HOW TO ENTER
Visit the Kokopax site and then leave a comment on this post telling me one other Kokopax item that you like and which color tote is your favorite.
BONUS ENTRIES
1 - Subscribe to my RSS feed.
1 - Follow me on Twitter AND leave your Twitter name.
1 - Tweet about this giveaway.
1 - Friend me on Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/valmg
1 - Fave this blog at Technorati AND leave your Technorati name.
1 - Blog about this giveaway, including a link here.
1 - Place my button on your blog.
1 - Visit HereAndThere.US (my Mom) and leave a comment on any post (except a giveaway post) there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned on my Mom’s blog. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry.
Leave an additional comment for each entry you qualify for. You must have completed the first entry according to the instructions to be eligible for any bonus entries.
THE SMALL PRINT
US addresses only please. This contest will end Monday 09/21/09 at 11:59 pm est. Only comments containing all of the requested information will be eligible for entry. The winner will be selected randomly. The winner must contact me within 2 days to confirm they wish to receive the prize. Good luck to everyone!
THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.
Skin Free Winner
Written by valmg on September 11, 2009 – 4:27 am
To select the winner of this giveaway I put the number of entries into the Random Sequence Generator on random.org. I matched the number that came out on top to the comment bearing the same number and made sure the comment was eligible. A screenshot is attached.
The winner of the Skin Free giveaway is #45 Lisa!
Congratulations! Please contact me within 48 hours to confirm that you wish to accept this prize, and please include your mailing address in your reply.
Thanks to all who entered the giveaway! Please consider subscribing to my feed so you don’t miss out on the latest posts, reviews and giveaways.
Siliskin Glass Winner
Written by valmg on September 9, 2009 – 4:57 am
To select the winner of this giveaway I put the number of entries into the Random Sequence Generator on random.org. I matched the number that came out on top to the comment bearing the same number and made sure the comment was eligible. A screenshot is attached.
The winner of the Siliskin Glass giveaway is #6 Traci Fritz!
Congratulations! Please contact me within 48 hours to confirm that you wish to accept this prize, and please include your mailing address in your reply.
Thanks to all who entered the giveaway! Please consider subscribing to my feed so you don’t miss out on the latest posts, reviews and giveaways.
TinyTongs Review And Giveaway
Written by valmg on September 8, 2009 – 9:52 pm
CJ has problems with fine motor skills. Self feeding was very delayed and a challenge. There are still times today that he needs help or resorts to using his fingers. When I was asked to review TinyTongs I agreed because I was curious how they’d work out for a child like CJ.
TinyTongs are little tongs for children learning to self feed. They were designed by a mother whose children were learning to self feed and dropped more food than they got in their mouths. TinyTongs are lead free, phalate free and BPA free. The tongs have a non-slip grip so it’s easier for children to hold them. When your child is done eating just put the TinyTongs in the dishwasher for cleaning.
The TinyTongs look like a pair of little sporks joined together. I decided to give them to CJ to try on one of his problem foods – corn. He seemed to know how to hold them without being shown. He was able to easily use them to pick up food. Because he’s a little older he’s used to eating larger mouthfuls and I noticed him getting a little frustrated that he couldn’t pick more up. I can see where these would be helpful for children learning to feed. I really liked the texturized non-slip grip and the posable ends because these features make the Tinytongs customizable for the way each child holds them. A larger size might be an interesting idea to consider for the future, for children with fine motor skill issues that need larger mouthfuls.
Tinytongs are available in a variety of colors including pink, purple, orange and green. One pair of TinyTongs has a recommended retail price of $7.99 and may be purchased online at tinytongs.com. Use code mkia20 to receive a 20% discount on any order.
GIVEAWAY
One winner will receive a pair of Tinytongs.
HOW TO ENTER
Visit the Tinytongs site and then leave a comment on this post telling me why you think your child would benefit from using this product.
BONUS ENTRIES
1 - Subscribe to my RSS feed.
1 - Follow me on Twitter AND leave your Twitter name.
1 - Tweet about this giveaway.
1 - Friend me on Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/valmg
1 - Fave this blog at Technorati AND leave your Technorati name.
1 - Blog about this giveaway, including a link here.
1 - Place my button on your blog.
1 - Visit HereAndThere.US (my Mom) and leave a comment on any post (except a giveaway post) there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned on my Mom’s blog. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry.
Leave an additional comment for each entry you qualify for. You must have completed the first entry according to the instructions to be eligible for any bonus entries.
THE SMALL PRINT
US addresses only please. This contest will end Tuesday 09/15/09 at 11:59 pm est. Only comments containing all of the requested information will be eligible for entry. The winner will be selected randomly. The winner must contact me within 2 days to confirm they wish to receive the prize. Good luck to everyone!
THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.
YoBaby Winner
Written by valmg on September 5, 2009 – 11:30 pm
To select the winner of this giveaway I put the number of entries into the Random Sequence Generator on random.org. I matched the number that came out on top to the comment bearing the same number and made sure the comment was eligible. A screenshot is attached.
The winner of the YoBaby giveaway is #9 Heather!
Congratulations! Please contact me within 48 hours to confirm that you wish to accept this prize, and please include your mailing address in your reply.
Thanks to all who entered the giveaway! Please consider subscribing to my feed so you don’t miss out on the latest posts, reviews and giveaways.
Skin Free Review And Giveaway
Written by valmg on September 3, 2009 – 10:47 pm
Like me, my son CJ has dry legs. That’s why I’m always on the lookout for effective products that are safe to use. When the company Skin Free contacted me and invited me to try a few of their products I had to see what they were about.
According to the Skin Free website their patented formulas are doctor recommended and pharmacist formulated. Skin Free makes 100% natural skin care products that contain no perfumes, petroleum products, harmful chemicals, steroids or colorants. The products are made from all natural, vegan ingredients and are not tested on animals.
Skin Free products are recommended for individuals with:
- Extreme Dry Skin
- Skin or Fragrance Allergies
- Psoriasis
- Dermatitis
- Eczema
- Pregnant Moms
- Babies
- The Elderly
- Diabetics
- Renal Patients
- After Radiation or Chemotherapy
I received four Skin Free products to try.
Extra Moisturizing Soap & Shampoo Bar - 3.5 oz - $3.99
We “superfat” our soap with extra virgin olive oil, which contains natural anti-inflammatory agents, anti-oxidants, and natural vitamins that aid in healing and soothing your skin. Naturally moisturizing shea and cocoa butters are added to reduce the tight, dry feeling normally experienced when using typical commercial soaps. The lack of chemical preservatives, fragrance, or colorants in this soap makes it ideal for individuals of any age, especially the very old and the very young, those with allergies, dermatitis, sensitive, or very dry skin.
Whipped Tamanu Body Butter - 8 oz - $18.99
The Polynesians discovered the healing and protective properties of Tamanu oil centuries ago. When the French arrived in Polynesia, they were fascinated by the islanders use of this oil for everything from minor skin abrasions to severe sunburn, and major skin infections. French scientists discovered the oil contains a unique fatty acid that stimulates skin growth. Tamanu also possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. We have combined the delicious Tamanu oil with Organic Extra Virgin Olive and rich Shea to make a remarkable whipped body butter to help sun-damaged skin, eczema, psoriasis, and reduce scarring.
Super Moisture Body Balm - 8 fl oz - $12.99
Most lotions only contain 5% oil. The other 95% is water, additives, preservatives, and fragrance. Our Super Moisture Body Balm is an incredible 100% super rich butters and natural oils selected for their healing and emollient properties. That means that 1oz of our product will give you 20 times the moisturizing ability of 1oz of any other lotion or cream. You can use our Super Moisture Body Balm anywhere on your body, face, or hands. You will be amazed at how wonderful this balm feels and how quickly it will improve the condition of dry or injured skin. It is very effective for eczema, psoriasis, cracked and dry feet, hands, elbows or wherever you need an intensive moisturizer. Use all over your body at bedtime to get rid of “alligator” skin. Reduces the appearance of wrinkles and dehydration.
Acai Scrub for Sparkling Skin - 6 oz - $15.99
We formulated our new Acai Scrub for Sparkling Skin for those looking to soften, rejuvenate and clarify their skin. Acai berry has become the most popular antioxidant to date. We have added organic Acai berry powder to our basic scrub formula for you to use daily, weekly, or whenever you feel the need to brighten and clarify your skin.
I liked all of the products. One of the things I liked most is that there was no chemical scent or heavy floral scent. The Super Moisture Body Balm is incredible. You don’t need a lot of this stuff and it really works. I put it on in the morning on one portion of my leg that always looks and feels the worst. Sixteen hours later that area of my leg still felt smooth and moist. The Extra Moisturizing soap was very nice. It didn’t dry out my hands like many soaps do and it left no residue after using. I tried the Acai Scrub on my arms, To use it you just rub it into your skin. After rinsing my arms they looked and felt much smoother than they had previously. The Whipped Tamanu Body Butter is very thick and really does have a butter like feel and texture. I liked this on my legs as well but found I had to use this in small amounts in order to not have a residue.
All of the Skin Free products are available for purchase online from Walgreens, CVS and Drugstore.com, as well as in select stores across the nation.
GIVEAWAY
One winner will receive a $30 Skin Free gift certificate.
HOW TO ENTER
Visit the Skin Free site and then leave a comment on this post telling me which product you’d like to try besides these four.
BONUS ENTRIES
1 - Subscribe to my RSS feed.
1 - Follow me on Twitter AND leave your Twitter name.
1 - Tweet about this giveaway.
1 - Friend me on Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/valmg
1 - Fave this blog at Technorati AND leave your Technorati name.
1 - Blog about this giveaway, including a link here.
1 - Place my button on your blog.
1 - Visit HereAndThere.US (my Mom) and leave a comment on any post (except a giveaway post) there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned on my Mom’s blog. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry.
Leave an additional comment for each entry you qualify for. You must have completed the first entry according to the instructions to be eligible for any bonus entries.
THE SMALL PRINT
US addresses only please. This contest will end Thursday 09/10/09 at 11:59 pm est. Only comments containing all of the requested information will be eligible for entry. The winner will be selected randomly. The winner must contact me within 2 days to confirm they wish to receive the prize. Good luck to everyone!
THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.
Siliskin Children’s Glass Review And Giveaway
Written by valmg on September 1, 2009 – 4:47 am
We’ve forced CJ to give up the sippy cup during the day and use regular cups. We learn more about the potential dangers of plastics constantly and I look forward to the day that he can drink from a glass. We’re not ready for that but this past week I was introduced to a safe alternative - a silicone covered glass for children.
Silikids is a company that offers products for children that are made from glass and silicone that are PVC-free and BPA-free. We received one of their new products - the Silicup - to review.
From two moms whose children are growing and inspiring new ideas, comes a new option for the entire family! The Siliskin Glass is a clean alternative to plastic drink-ware. BPA-free, and made from 100% food grade silicone, the Siliskin Glass helps prevent slipping and adds extra protection to the glass inside. Glass is the cleanest option for drinking and it lasts because it’s reusable, and recyclable. The Siliskin is also hypo-allergenic, and has no pores to harbor bacteria, is dishwasher safe, and can be boiled to sterilize. Two simple ideas have come together to make the perfect drinkware better for your family and the environment. Siliskin with 6 oz. glass available in aqua and lime.
This glass is colorful, attractive and very sturdy. It was light enough to easily pick up but heavy enough that it wouldn’t easily knock over or blow over. The silicone over the glass was smooth and had little bumps to assist with grip and protects that glass from breaking in case of a fall. The glass cleaned easily and well as all of the pieces can safely go in the dishwasher.
The Siliskin Glass has a recommended retail price of $7.95 and can be purchased online as well as at select retail locations in the US. Visit www.silikids.com for more information on Siliskin Glass and the Silikids collection which also includes baby bottles, other glasses, bibs and kneepads.
GIVEAWAY
One winner will receive a Siliskin Glass.
HOW TO ENTER
Visit the Silikids site and then leave a comment on this post telling me which product you like best.
BONUS ENTRIES
1 - Subscribe to my RSS feed.
1 - Follow me on Twitter AND leave your Twitter name.
1 - Tweet about this giveaway.
1 - Friend me on Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/valmg
1 - Fave this blog at Technorati AND leave your Technorati name.
1 - Blog about this giveaway, including a link here.
1 - Place my button on your blog.
1 - Visit HereAndThere.US (my Mom) and leave a comment on any post (except a giveaway post) there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned on my Mom’s blog. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry.
Leave an additional comment for each entry you qualify for. You must have completed the first entry according to the instructions to be eligible for any bonus entries.
THE SMALL PRINT
US addresses only please. This contest will end Tuesday 09/08/09 at 11:59 pm est. Only comments containing all of the requested information will be eligible for entry. The winner will be selected randomly. The winner must contact me within 2 days to confirm they wish to receive the prize. Good luck to everyone!
THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.
