PopCorners Review and Giveaway

Around this house I have to keep snack foods on hand and with that being said first and foremost, we also love to find new and unique snacks to try and share with friends and family. I must say that having this blog we have been introduced to some wonderful snacks that we would otherwise have known nothing about sadly. And once again we have been given the opportunity to try a snack that is truly unique and super delicious all at the same time! I want to share with all of you today PopCorners…these unique popcorn flavored snack in the shape of a tortilla chip is really amazing and if you or your family is like mine they are going to be a huge hit with popcorn lovers all over the world!

About PopCorners:

Time to change the popcorn! PopCorners is the world’s first popcorn chip, available in five delicious flavors. As a healthy and gluten-free snack, we want to honorably carry on the traditional goodness of snacking on popcorn-but with a twist!

We have just one question; who is it that said satisfying your craving for popcorn can only happen by eating handfuls of white fluffy things full of hulls that end up in your teeth and unpopped kernels and crumbs that end up everywhere else?

We must have missed that memo—which is good, because otherwise we never would’ve created PopCorners—the first ever popcorn chip. Fact is, PopCorners deliver pure popcorn pleasure minus all the annoying stuff (not to mention fat, chemicals and calories). So if you’re ready for a “popcorn experience” that’s only about the great light popped taste and satisfying crunch (and not flossing your teeth and cleaning crumbs off yourself), welcome to PopCorners—the new shape of popcorn …and, as your visit will confirm, the shape you want to be in.

Five flavors available in 1.1 oz or 5oz bags:
Butter
White Cheddar
Sea Salt
Kettle
Cheesy Jalapeno

Our Thoughts:

We were sent a sampler package of all five of the delicious flavors of PopCorners. I knew just by checking out their website, Facebook and Twitter pages that this is a truly unique, flavorful and healthy snack option. Our PopCorners arrived super quick and I couldn’t wait to share them with Chad and “Bug” because we all love popcorn and I knew they would love to give these chips a try and boy was I ever right!

We immediately set in to sampling the PopCorners and believe it or not I thought all five flavors was amazing and just between me and you the butter flavor taste just like a bucket of movie theater buttered popcorn….it’s pure butter lover heaven! Even though all of the flavors are delicious we all seemed to have our absolute favorite and for me that was the sea salt…I absolutely adore sea salt flavored chips of any kind so naturally these were my favorites and “Bug” being a little butter fanatic he quickly claimed the butter flavored bag and the hubby quickly snatched the cheese jalapeno!

We have now been snacking on these PopCorners over the past few weeks and I’m so glad we discovered them. I really wish I knew how to describe the taste and smell of these chips…if only the computer screens were scratch and sniff….:0(….but anyways they smell just as delicious as they taste. We have quickly replaced our movie night popcorn with PopCorners and I have a feeling they are going to become a permanent resident of our snack cabinet.

The one thing I absolutely love about PopCorners is that I don’t have to worry as much about “Bug” getting choked like I do when he eats regular popcorn. I also love the fact that when we get a craving we can simply open a bag and get to snacking unlike having to pop the popcorn ourselves and then have to clean up afterwards before we can enjoy!

Bottom Line:

We love, love, love PopCorners and we highly recommend picking up a bag and tasting the unique difference asap! Trust me you wont be sorry! A tasty snack that is also a healthier alternative to regular potato chips….what could be better?

Buy It:
To purchase the PopCorners mentioned above visit the PopCorners website to find a retail location near you or to order online!

Win It:
PopCorners has very generously offered one of my lucky readers a sampler pack like the one we got to try out with some of each of the 5 available flavors!

Mandatory Entry: Visit PopCorners on Facebook and tell me what flavor you would most like to try! Please remember to leave your e-mail address if it’s not visible in your profile.

Want or need extra entries? Check out how to grab em’ below! (Mandatory Entry must be complete for these to count)

1. Become a public follower of my blog (2 extra)

2. Follow me on twitter @sgrant2005 and tweet this giveaway (can be done daily)

3. Subscribe to my feed via a reader

4. Blog about this giveaway with a link to this post and to PopCorners be sure to leave me a link (5 extra)

5. “Like” PopCorners on Facebook

6. Follow PopCorners on Twitter

Giveaway ends April 07, 2011 @ midnight CST. Winner will be chosen at random, using random.org and contacted by e-mail and has 48 hrs to respond before a new winner is chosen.

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion with the product listed above. I did receive the PopCorner Sampler mentioned above complementary for this review. No monetary compensation was received.

ZILLIONZ™ REAL-MONEY DELUXE ATM SAVINGS BANK REVIEW

Ever since “Bug” has been born we have been working on a savings account for him and to be honest the little man has quite a chunk in the bank for a three year old. But, now that he is old enough to “earn” his money we thought that it would be a great idea to get him his own bank to keep his change and dollars in before we go and deposit them into his savings. So while I was looking for the perfect bank for him that would not only hold his cash but we wanted something to help teach him about money in general so when I found the Zillionz Real-Money Deluxe ATM Savings Bank I knew this was the bank we had been searching for and I was thrilled when I was given the opportunity to review one!

About Zillionz Real-Money Deluxe ATM Savings Bank (taken from website):

This deluxe ATM features a single-screen backlit digital display. Just insert the ATM card to activate the screen and view your savings. The coin slot recognizes the value of each coin and the automatic bill feeder accepts real currency. This secure vault is sure to keep your money safe—only you have access with your digital access code. Stand it up or hang on a wall with its built-in wall mount.

Features
WORKS WITH REAL MONEY
BACKLIT DIGITAL DISPLAY
COIN RECOGNITION
MOTORIZED BILL FEEDER
ATM CARD INCLUDED

AGE: 5 & Up


Our Thoughts:

“Bug” was sent a Real-Money Deluxe ATM Savings Bank from Zillionz to review and it could not have arrived at a better time, which was just in time for his 3rd birthday party and as you all know there are going to be those family members who are going to be giving cash to the birthday kiddo so I thought why not let him start his bank on his birthday! I kept the Real-Money Deluxe ATM Savings Bank hid from him until we got home from the party and he was thrilled when he found out he had his own debit card (yes, it’s really sad when a 3yr old knows exactly what a debit card is and how it works!).

We immediately opened it up and got it all set up for him with his own very special pin number we let him choose, now he isn’t old enough to remember it for himself so when he goes to use his ATM we have to help him with his pin but it’s good practice for when he does get older. I have to say my favorite feature of the Real-Money Deluxe ATM Savings Bank is the fact that it counts up his money as he puts it in the bank so he knows exactly how much he has and that is super important since we have a set limit on how much we keep him at home before we make a deposit, so we always know when it’s time for a trip to the real bank.

It didn’t take “Bug” long to figure out how to use the Real-Money Deluxe ATM Savings Bank just like a pro! He has spent countless hours playing with the machine and I am proud to say that he is starting to recognize the coins and their values better now since he has been using the bank. I think the withdraw feature is awesome as well so if he is wanting a special toy like say he was after his birthday once he reaches the amount he needs he can withdraw it out of his bank and it still keeps up with what he has in the bank just like real ATM! I have to say that this bank is one of the best on the market for little ones to learn about saving and keeping track of their money!

Bottom Line:

“Bug” and I both love his Real-Money Deluxe ATM Savings Bank from Zillionz and I can guarantee you that it’s seen its fair share of use over the past month and will be getting much more in the coming months and years! In my opinion I think every kid should have one of these to help them track their money and teach them the much needed responsibility they are so desperately going to need when they get older to save as much money as possible.

The Real-Money Deluxe ATM Savings Bank would make a wonderful gift for any child. It’s fun and very easy to use an not to mention a wonderful learning tool!

Buy It:
To purchase the Real-Money Deluxe ATM Savings Bank mentioned above and more money saving banks visit the Zillionz website!

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion with the product listed above. I did receive the Real-Money Deluxe ATM Savings Bank mentioned above complementary for this review. No monetary compensation was received.

Sargento Joins Forces with Culinary Expert to Help Americans Make More Nutritious Choices

Sargento Foods, Inc., in partnership with culinary expert and registered dietitian, Michelle Dudash, is making it easier for Americans to incorporate healthier – yet tasty – options in their diets. With the recent release of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010 by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Agriculture, there is a greater call for people to choose nutrient-dense foods that are lower in sodium and saturated fat. And Sargento Reduced Sodium and Reduced Fat natural cheeses are just that.

The Dietary Guidelines recommends reducing daily sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams and to further reduce intake to 1,500 milligrams for select segments of the population, which collectively make up about half of the total U.S. population. With 25 percent less sodium and 33 percent less fat than traditional natural cheeses, respectively, Sargento Reduced Sodium and Reduced Fat varieties are an easy solution to incorporating delicious cheese into a nutritious, well-balanced diet.

“Translating the new dietary recommendations into everyday life can be challenging. Americans are now looking in their refrigerators wondering what they should throw out and what new products will help them enjoy a more nutritious lifestyle,” said Dudash. “Fortunately for cheese lovers, Sargento offers reduced sodium and reduced fat cheeses that taste just as delicious as their traditional counterparts.”

Sargento Reduced Sodium and Reduced Fat natural cheeses are available in snacks, slices, and shreds in a variety of flavors, such as Reduced Sodium Colby-Jack sticks, Reduced Sodium Provolone slices and Reduced Fat Sharp Cheddar shreds. On average, Sargento Reduced Sodium natural cheeses contain 90-140 milligrams of sodium per serving, and Sargento Reduced Fat natural cheeses contain 2.5-6 grams of total fat and 1.5-3.5 grams of saturated fat per serving.

Michelle also shares the following tips to help Americans make informed food choices and develop sound eating habits:


1. Instead of adding salt throughout the preparation process, only add it at the end of cooking when it’s needed. This method requires less salt, while still reaching your taste buds upon first bite.
2. Use good quality, fresh and seasonal ingredients whenever possible, which results in maximum flavor and leaves little need for added salt.
3. Seek out foods with 140 milligrams or less of sodium per serving, since these qualify as low sodium. Sargento Reduced Sodium cheeses all fit the bill with only 90-140 milligrams of sodium per serving, making it a deliciously satisfying way to follow a diet lower in sodium.

4. Finishing touches like julienned sundried tomatoes in egg dishes, raisins in salads, and toasted slivered almonds in rice are low sodium additions that can really liven up the flavor and texture of recipes.


5. Choosing lower fat versions of your favorite nutrient-rich foods not only offers less total fat, but also may provide a savings in saturated fat and calories compared to selecting their regular counterparts. Sargento Reduced Fat Sharp Cheddar Shreds, whole grain crackers, vinaigrette dressing, and yogurt are a few examples.

To view recipes specially created by Michelle Dudash, RD, using Sargento Reduced Sodium and Reduced Fat natural cheeses, click here. Each recipe contains 550 milligrams or less of sodium and nine grams or less of saturated fat per serving.

For more information on Sargento Reduced Sodium and Reduced Fat natural cheeses or to locate a store near you that carries the product, visit www.sargento.com
I did receive a few VIP coupons above complementary to review some of Sargento Reduced Sodium and Reduced Fat natural cheeses. No monetary compensation was received.

Earth Hour 2011 will take place at 8.30pm (all time zones), Saturday, March 26

WHAT IS EARTH HOUR?

Earth Hour is driven by the global community’s will to protect the planet we share. Earth Hour’s exponential growth – from a single-city initiative in 2007 to a global movement across 128 countries in 2010 – is indicative of the growing desire for a cleaner, healthier world that is gathering momentum by the hour. At 8.30pm on Saturday 26 March 2011, Earth Hour will mark a moment of global contemplation to go beyond the hour; a collective commitment by individuals throughout the world to be the ongoing change they want to see in it.

Earth Hour 2011 will ask the world to:

· Switch off your lights for Earth Hour at 8.30pm, Saturday 26 March 2011 and celebrate your commitment to the planet with the people of the world
· Sign up and Share stories of your actions that benefit the planet on earthhour.org
· Sustain your actions beyond the hour – www.beyondthehour.org

HOW DO WE INVOLVE OUR CHILDREN?

In a bid to extend the message to young children and their caregivers, the Earth Hour organization has appointed the globally loved animated character Pocoyo as the first Global Kids’ Ambassador of Earth Hour, Beyond the Hour. Pocoyo will reach out to millions of preschool-aged fans across the globe, fostering “Learning through Laughter,” to inform children about environmental issues.

Parent and their caregivers can find a fun activity book, promo, screensavers and wallpaper at http://www.pocoyo.com/earth_hour_2011.html

At the recent Beyond the Hour press conference in Singapore, Earth Hour Co-Founder and Executive Director, Andy Ridley commented “Everyone has the power to make change: a CEO can change an organization, a 7-year-old can change a classroom, and a president can change a country. What we are announcing today is just the beginning. It is through the collective action of individuals and organizations that we will be able to truly make a difference, which is why we are urging people across the planet to share how they will go beyond the hour this Earth Hour.”

Chloe Nicol, a 7-year-old girl from Australia, is guiding her school to increase recycling and reduce energy waste. The school now also shuts their blinds instead of using air-conditioning to cool the rooms.

Nathi Mzileni, a 15-year-old boy from Swaziland, was inspired to take action in 2010 when he realised his town did not participate in Earth Hour. He started a group at his High School called Green Enviro to educate people about climate change, and this year will single-handedly make Earth Hour a reality in his town of Shimunye, Swaziland.

Parrys Raines, a 15-year-old Australian girl, has convinced her school to install water filling stations and provide each student and teacher with a reusable stainless steel drinking bottle to reduce plastic bottle waste.

Parents, caregivers and their children EVERYWHERE can support the initiative by throwing an Earth Hour Party Celebration to help spread the word on saving our environment. We’ve included some easy tips for the perfect party, enjoy!

· Make invitations out of recycled paper or send an email invite.
· Use organic and locally sustained food.
· Serve finger foods to skip using plates and utensils, and use cloth napkins that can be washed and used again.
· Make dishes that don’t require the oven or electricity to prepare.
· Be creative with food, licorice ends can be cut off to make edible straws for the kids.
· Family craft project - decorate canvas shopping totes with eco-friendly paint, old buttons, etc.
· Have a nighttime, outdoor, eco friendly scavenger hunt by flashlight - hunt for garden tools, seeds, egg cartons, etc. Once the items are found, explain how they are used for recycling and to save our environment.
· Have a recycled book exchange for the kids and adults, instead of favors.
· Have fun and remember to have enough candles and flashlights for everyone to see!

“20 SIMPLE IDEAS FOR PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS TO HELP CHILDREN TO GO “BEYOND THE HOUR”, AND HELP SAVE OUR PLANET!”

At the centre of the Earth Hour is the symbolic collective action of lights out on March 26.

Yet Earth Hour is about much more than just switching off the lights. It’s about switching to a more sustainable lifestyle. Being mindful, using less, making everyday choices to reduce our environmental footprint.

If you want your kids to be environmentally responsible when they grow up, you've got to teach them while they're still young

Here are some tips for going beyond hour. Big or small, through all our efforts combined, these changes will help make a difference.

Turn off lights and appliances at the wall when not in use
Explain to children that lights, TV’s and computers use energy, and that it is in short supply! This is an easy way to reduce wasted energy and carbon. If you switch off just one appliance at the wall you could save 99 pounds of greenhouse gas! Ask your child if he can imagine what 99 pounds might look like, and show him/her some examples – like twenty 5 pound bags of potatoes!

Stop using plastic containers
Explain to your child that every bottle they throw in the trash sits in a big pile at the local dump. Have your child help you pick out fun, brightly colored refillable or reusable containers.

Make recycling fun!
Make recycling fun by inventing games such as tossing non-breakable recyclable items into trashcans at a short distance! Use recyclable materials in craft projects, for example use cardboard to make masks, or paper to make airplanes! Create art projects such as paper mache and mosaics. And donate discarded items to charity!

Have a candlelight family and grab a blanket if it’s cold!
Once a week, have a candlelight family hour and tell stories or play games instead of watching TV. And if it’s cold, wear an extra layer of clothes or snuggle up under a blanket to read books.

Use the sunlight to warm up a room
The house pet knows this and you kids will enjoy it too. Open blinds and drapes on a sunny but chilly day and enjoy the glorious warmth that pours in through the windows!

Close drapes and blinds when it’s too hot!
In the summer heat, turn down or off the air-conditioner to save energy by teaching children how they can keep from getting hot and sticky by closing the drapes and blinds to keep the room cool. They will enjoy their playtime better and parents will save money too!

Watch your water use
Only 3% of the world’s water is fresh water, and of that, two-thirds is frozen in glaciers and polar ice-caps! Teach kids water-wise habits at home at a young age. Turn off the water while brushing teeth, take shorter showers, and no water-hose fights in hot weather!

Throw a green birthday party
Kids parties generate a lot of trash. Email invitations; choose reusable kid-friendly cups and plates; and create a craft activity for kids to take something home instead of wasteful goody bags.

Walk more
Walk to pre-school with your kids! It’s fun to spend the extra time with your children, great exercise and you save on gas too.

Take public transport when you can
Buses and trains ease congestion, reduce emissions, and allow you to relax with your kids. Relax and read a book together instead of driving the car!

Car pool
Double the efficiency of your car by carpooling to pre-school!

Buy earth-friendly back-to-school products
It’s always fun shopping for supplies. Choose recycled pencils and notebooks, PVC-free shoes, hemp backpacks, organic cotton clothes, or re-used clothing where possible.

Take a reusable cloth bag when you go shopping – decorate bags with your kids!
Did you know that American use 380 billion plastic bags every year? In addition to being manufactured from non-renewable fossil fuels, plastic bags degrade extremely slowly. Buy a canvas bag, and decorate it with recycled items!

Buy local, seasonal produce
Take the kids for a fun morning out and buy produce at your local Farmer’s Market! Explain how far much of the food you buy has travelled before it reaches your table. Food produced locally costs less to process and transport, and it’s fresher and better for you.

Cut down on meat
Try to eat a little bit less meat by having the children help you to make one extra vegetarian meal each week. It takes only about 723 gallons of water to produce 2.2 pounds of wheat, but 3250 gallons of water to produce 2.2 pounds of beef.

Plant natives in the garden
Enjoy some fresh air with the children in the garden and plant native plants! Kids might like to have their own miniature size garden box to tend! Use native plants, they require less water, care and maintenance. Plus, you will be creating the ideal conditions to attract native species to your backyard or balcony by creating a habitat for them.

Start a compost
What kid isn’t fascinated with worms? Create a worm composter! Almost 75 per cent of household waste is compostable. Composting not only saves landfill space, but recycles material and saves money on fertilizers. Worms to speed up the process. Ask the children to fill the composter with food scraps and in a few months, they will see how the “garbage” becomes rich dirt they can help you spread around to make the garden grow.

Grown your own fruit and vegetables
Watching things grow is exciting! Reduce your footprint and have your kids help you grow their own veggies. Let them choose seeds, plant and tend them together. Fresh veggies are good for you and for the earth. No packaging and no food miles!

Install a rainwater tank
See how much rain you can catch! Secure your own water supply and collect water for use in the garden. Rainwater is free, so parents, that means a reduction in bills too!

Share your tips with friends!
Have a weekly contest with friends to see who did the most to help save the planet!

Design Contest for Charity from Company Kids

The Company Store, celebrating their 100th anniversary this year, will accept original artwork from children 12 years and under. Submissions can be uploaded to www.Facebook.com/CompanyKids.

Is your child a future artist? Does he or she like to help others? The Kids' Design Contest is geared at inspiring creativity while supporting art education and charitable work among America's youth.

All it takes is submitting an original design for a comforter. If that design gets the most votes on Facebook, we'll use it on the comforters we donate to homeless kids across the country. And the three designers with the most votes win Company Kids gift cards.

Let your kids use their creativity to help others. Enter them into the contest and start designing!

Rules:

•open to kids 12 years old and younger
•designs must be handmade - use paint, pencils, markers, etc.
•use six colors or less
•please submit images in .jpg, .gif, or .png formats
•must comply with official rules

Prizes:

The design with the most votes will get made into thousands of new comforters for homeless children. On top of that, the three artists with the most votes will receive gift cards from Company Kids. Subject to verification.
1st Prize - $500 Gift Card
2nd Prize - $250 Gift Card
3rd Prize - $100 Gift Card

I will receive a a FREE Company Kids backpack complementary for this review. No monetary compensation was received.

Wubbzy's Egg-Cellent Easter Giveaway and Original Piece of Wubbzy Artwork Sweepstakes

Wow, wow! We’re so egg-cited to let you know about a very cool sweepstakes happening only on Wubbzy.com that is sure to make the most EGG-CELLENT Easter basket goody!

To help celebrate the release of the brand-new Wow! Wow! Wubbzy! DVD, Wubbzy’s Egg-Cellent Easter, now available, one lucky Wubb fan can win a one-of-a-kind, original piece of Wubbzy-inspired artwork, from series’ creator and artist, Bob Boyle.

For more information about the sweepstakes, and to enter, please visit: http://www.wubbzy.com/. The sweeps is live March 21 – April 10, 2011.

About WUBBZY’S EGG-CELLENT EASTER:

Fun-Filled Holiday-Themed Release from Anchor Bay Entertainment Hops into Stores – and Easter Baskets Nationwide – March 1, 2011

Beverly Hills, CA – Easter has never been more “egg-citing”! Wubbzy and his friends Walden, Widget and Daizy – from the Emmy Award®-winning Nick Jr.® preschool TV series, “Wow! Wow! Wubbzy!,” will give preschoolers and families even more to celebrate this Easter with a brand-new, special seasonal DVD. “Everybunny” will be chirping with laughter when “Wubbzy’s Egg-Cellent Easter,” the latest release in the best-selling DVD series from Anchor Bay Entertainment, sprouts up in stores from coast-to-coast, Tuesday, March 1, 2011.

“We’re delighted to bring this adorable and festive new ‘Wow! Wow! Wubbzy!’ title to preschoolers across the country, just in time for the holiday,” said Erin Carter, Executive Director of Brand Marketing, Anchor Bay Entertainment. “The charming new release is the perfect answer for families on the ‘hunt’ for affordable Easter gifts and is a great way for them to celebrate spring together – the Wubbzy-way – with relatable age-appropriate life lessons and lots of heartfelt humor.”

All the kooky action of Easter in Wuzzleburg comes to life in six “egg-ceptional” episodes featured on the debut DVD. In “Wubbzy’s Egg-Cellent Easter,” Wubbzy and his pals celebrate the first day of spring with a game of kickity-kick ball and discover new ways to decorate eggs for the annual Easter Egg Hunt. And when the holiday is suddenly cancelled, it’s up to Wubbzy to save the day!

For even more Easter cheer, “Wubbzy’s Egg-Cellent Easter” includes holiday-themed coloring sheets and activity pages.

“Wow! Wow! Wubbzy!” has been a hit with young viewers and their families since its 2006 TV premiere on Nickelodeon®, and the show currently airs daily on Nick Jr. Wubbzy is a fun, lovable, curious little guy who just likes to play, play, play with his friends in the eye-popping town of Wuzzleburg. The top-rated series supports preschool social skills – sharing, listening, compromising, helping and appreciating others, self-awareness and the use of humor as a coping skill.

Although their world is more fanciful and imaginative than our own, Wubbzy, Widget, Walden and Daizy, deal with the same social and developmental issues faced by preschoolers. They learn how they fit into a group, how to understand their own feelings and those of others, how to get along with one another and the value of friendship and community.

“Wow! Wow! Wubbzy!” is produced by Bolder Media, Inc. in association with Starz Media’s Film Roman Animation Studio. It is a worldwide hit that is broadcast in 60+ countries. Susan Miller (co-producer of Ella Enchanted) and Fred Seibert (executive producer of “The FairlyOdd Parents”) are the executive producers of the show created by Emmy® Award winner Bob Boyle (producer of “The FairlyOdd Parents”).

Buy It:
To purchase Wubbzy’s Egg-Cellent Easter mentioned above visit Amazon.com!

Win It:
I have a copy of Wubbzy’s Egg-Cellent Easter DVD to giveaway to one of my super lucky readers for their little Wubbzy fan (ARV $16.98)!

Mandatory Entry: Visit Wubbzy and tell me your kiddos favorite character from the show! Please remember to leave your e-mail address if it’s not visible in your profile.

Want or need extra entries? Check out how to grab em’ below! (Mandatory Entry must be complete for these to count)

1. Become a public follower of my blog (2 extra)

2. Follow me on twitter @sgrant2005 and tweet this giveaway (can be done daily)

3. Subscribe to my feed via a reader

4. Blog about this giveaway with a link to this post and to Wubbzy be sure to leave me a link (5 extra)

5. “Like” Wubbzy on Facebook

6. Follow Wubbzy on Twitter

Giveaway ends April 05, 2011 @ midnight CST. Winner will be chosen at random, using random.org and contacted by e-mail and has 48 hrs to respond before a new winner is chosen.

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion with the product listed above. I will receive a copy of the DVD mentioned above complementary for this review. No monetary compensation was received.

Emerson Creek Pottery Review and Giveaway

I love handmade pottery and I am always visiting flea markets, garage sales and other specialty shops looking for unique and hand panted pottery to add to my every growing collection. There is just something super special about each piece of pottery and they each have their own story. I love that no matter what design the pottery has painted on it, each piece goes together brilliantly and I always enjoy entertaining family and friends on my unique pottery finds. Recently I was introduced to an amazing pottery company called Emerson Creek, and let me just say they have some of the most beautiful designs of pottery I have ever seen, so when I was given the chance to review an item from their Summer Peaks collection I was thrilled!

About Emerson Creek (taken from website):

Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Emerson Creek Pottery artisans are continuing the American tradition of pottery making in a contemporary way. The property on which Emerson Creek Pottery sits was originally a 500-acre land grant from the King of England. In 1825, Silas Wade aquired the land and built his two room, and two story log cabin, now the home of Emerson Creek Pottery. To the north are the majestic Peaks of Otter, visible through the treetops in winter. The land rolls gently away from the house to the creek beds. More information about this historic home can be found in the Virginia Room of the Roanoke City Library, Roanoke, Virginia.

Influenced by the energy of Early American cobalt decoration, owners Priscilla Palmer and Jim Leavitt founded Emerson Creek Pottery in 1977. Priscilla developed the unique technique of applying natural pigments to an absorbent glaze with a Japanese Sumi-e brush. The spontaneity of the brush stroke, combined with the accuracy of design yields our distinctively recognizable style. Priscilla's deep love of the natural world provides a multitude of organic designs for all of Emerson Creek's pottery.

Our ceramic pottery has been featured at Monticello, Mt. Vernon and the Smithsonian Institute, as well as in fine homes across America. We have had the pleasure of designing customized pottery patterns for numerous clubs and organizations.

Our pottery is formed of clay made onsite. Each piece is hand made, hand painted and fired in a gas kiln. Each pattern is a series of carefully planned strokes. No templates or stencils are used. The patterns are practiced and committed to memory. The artists paint the pattern again and again. Each piece is alike and yet different, like flowers in a field. We are currently featuring 15 different lines of ceramic pottery, including our beloved signature line - Field of Iris, a classic since 1977. All of our work is microwave and dishwasher safe, lead free and ovenproof.

Visitors to Virginia find a warm welcome at Emerson Creek Pottery. We are an easy 10 minute drive from Bedford, a lovely 30 minutes from Lynchburg or Smith Mt. Lake, and a pleasant 45 minutes from Roanoke. With its original log walls, original fireplace, and three double barrel chimneys, the cabin which houses the Emerson Creek Pottery factory outlet offers considerable interest to those wishing to steep themselves in the rich history of the region. And, our guests enjoy the opportunity to connect with the past by experiencing the special quality of our handmade pottery which continues a true American tradition handed down to us from Colonial times.

Since 1977, it has been our pleasure to offer the American heritage of handmade, handpainted pottery to our customers. We take pride in the fact that when you shop Emerson Creek Pottery, you know that you are purchasing a little piece of history which will surely add the quality of timeless beauty to your home. We stand behind the superior and consistent quality of our craftsmanship and thank you for choosing Emerson Creek Pottery.

My Thoughts:

I was recently sent a Summer Peaks Square Appetizer Plate from Emerson Creek to review and I can’t tell you how excited I was and when the plate actually arrived at my door I have to admit that I was speechless at how stunning this plate was in person, the photo just does not do this beauty justice.

The plate was shipped very securely and arrived very quickly after I was informed it was on it’s way. The one thing that is an absolute must when ordering glass wear and especially hand panted pottery is that each piece is securely packaged so that there is no chips or breaks and my plate was very securely wrapped and arrived in perfect shape.

Once the plate arrived I could not wait to show it off and I soon got my chance during a family Sunday breakfast I used the plate to sever the fresh fruits for the pancakes. Everyone complimented the plate and I have to say it fit in so well with my other pieces of pottery I have collected over the past few years. And I also must say that the mixed colors of the fruits looked amazing with the beautiful mountain background of the plate.

The painting of the peaks themselves is beautiful and the artist did an amazing job capturing every little detail to make this plate on of a kind. Since receiving the plate and seeing the quality and durability of the design when washed by hand and in the dishwasher I can safely say that I have the whole Summer Peaks collection on my wish list and I will be adding more of the plates and other pieces to my collection as time goes on.

Bottom Line:

I am very impressed with the artists painting on the piece and I love that I can simply toss the plate in the dishwasher after using it during a family meal and not have to worry about the art work. I am also pleased with the security of the plate during shipping and I can tell you I would not hesitate to purchase other pieces from Emerson Creek Pottery for the simple fact that I know that the piece would be a beautiful one of a kind addition to my collection and that it would reach me in one piece and is well worth the money I would be spending on it because the artwork would not chip or fade after use.

If you are looking for a unique one of a kind gift or addition to your own pottery collection I highly recommend checking out the beautiful pieces available from Emerson Creek!

Buy It:
To purchase Summer Peaks Square Appetizer Plate mentioned above and much more visit the Emerson Creek Website!

Discount Alert:
Emerson Creek has kindly offered all of my wonderful readers here at The Cartoon Lovin’ Mama a coupon code good for 15% off all orders over $25.00 or more good thru 04/23/2011. Simply use code sg486

Win It:
Emerson Creek has generously offered one of my super lucky readers one of their four styles of mugs in the winners design choice (ARV $16.00)

Mandatory Entry: Visit Emerson Creek Pottery and tell me your favorite design! Please remember to leave your e-mail address if it’s not visible in your profile.

Want or need extra entries? Check out how to grab em’ below! (Mandatory Entry must be complete for these to count)

1. Become a public follower of my blog (2 extra)

2. Follow me on twitter @sgrant2005 and tweet this giveaway (can be done daily)

3. Subscribe to my feed via a reader

4. Blog about this giveaway with a link to this post and to Emerson Creek Pottery be sure to leave me a link (5 extra)

5. “Like” Emerson Creek Pottery on Facebook

6. Follow Emerson Creek Pottery on Twitter

Giveaway ends April 05, 2011 @ midnight CST. Winner will be chosen at random, using random.org and contacted by e-mail and has 48 hrs to respond before a new winner is chosen.

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion with the product listed above. I did receive the plate mentioned above complementary for this review. No monetary compensation was received.

Ecoland Review and Giveaway

Here recently I have been more conscious of the products I have been buying for my family and we have been trying to buy more organically. So recently I have been looking into purchasing organic clothing and accessories for us and was recently introduced to Ecoland and their amazing organic cotton underwear. After doing a bit of research on their products I was thrilled when they offered to let “Bug” review their new toddler crew socks!

About Ecoland (taken from website):

As an environmentally-conscious business, we constantly take steps towards sustainability. We originally started with the Slow Fashion movement, but in the process of providing long-lasting organic cotton apparel, we’ve gradually realized that supporting non-profits that share our vision of a ‘slow lifestyle’ should be a part of our green business model.

We’re a small, family-owned company that believes in helping our planet and our loved ones by producing the best quality organic cotton apparel. Through our products and business practices, we seek to promote environmental and social responsibility:

All of our employees live within 2 miles of the office, which reduces transportation costs and carbon emissions.
Business travel is reduced to a minimum because we utilize online communications systems to correspond with our business partners instead.

And because our office is microwave-free, fresh-made, organic lunches are provided free everyday to our employees.

Our Thoughts:

Ecoland sent “Bug” their set of toddler combo crew socks (3 pair set)to review. Since we just recently decided to start using organic products we had not yet had the opportunity to try organic socks but we were quite excited to get the opportunity from Ecoland. “Bug’s” socks arrived very quickly and we couldn’t wait to try them out.

I must comment on the design of the socks, they are one size for 2-6T and they are perfect! I couldn’t believe how soft these socks were and I just love the gender neutral colors that the set comes in not to mention the adorable little snowflake on the natural snowflake crew, which is perfect for winter! Once the socks arrived “Bug” immediately begin wearing them and he is quite picky about the socks he wears, they can’t bunch up in the toes of his shoe and he doesn’t like seems too much but he really seems to love these socks and if he is the one to choose which socks he wants to wear it’s a good chance the Ecoland toddler socks are the ones he is going to choose. These socks are very light weight and for “Bug’s” rather huge feet they stretch to provide the ultimate comfort for his little feet. We also love that these socks stay in place and don’t seem to slither down into his shoes and create that uncomfortable bump under his feet.

Since these socks have arrived “Bug” has worn them several times and really likes them as I stated above. I love them because they are perfect for any season, we can layer them in the winter when we go out to play in the snow to keep his little toes warm and in the spring they are light enough to wear with his tennis shoes and his feet do not sweat as much in these socks as they do the traditional socks. These socks are also machine washable which is extremely important in our household, since I’m a super busy mom and college student I don’t have lots of time to focus on hand washing our clothing. These socks stand up great to the wear and tear of a three year old toddler and they have most defiantly gotten their use over the past couple of months.

Bottom Line:

We are thrilled with the toddler crew socks from Ecoland and I can’t wait to purchase myself some of these super comfy organic socks. I’ve also got my eye on a couple more items from Ecoland that I can’t wait to order and try out. The socks proved the quality, style and comfort for Ecoland and I’m sure those qualities will be present in everyone of Ecolands clothing items!

If you are trying to go organic with your family like we are, we highly recommend checking out the line of organic cotton underwear from Ecoland. I’m sure you will be just as happy with the item you choose as we are with “Bug’s” new organic toddler socks!

Buy It:
To purchase the Toddler Combo Crew Sock 3 Pack mentioned above and so many more great organic cotton items visit the Ecoland website!

Win It:
Ecoland has kindly offered on of my extremely lucky readers a chance to win the Toddler Combo Crew Sock 3 Pack (ARV $15.00) so they can try Ecoland for themselves.

Mandatory Entry: Visit Ecoland and tell me your favorite item! Please remember to leave your e-mail address if it’s not visible in your profile.

Want or need extra entries? Check out how to grab em’ below! (Mandatory Entry must be complete for these to count)

1. Become a public follower of my blog (2 extra)

2. Follow me on twitter @sgrant2005 and tweet this giveaway (can be done daily)

3. Subscribe to my feed via a reader

4. Blog about this giveaway with a link to this post and to Ecoland be sure to leave me a link (5 extra)

5. “Like” Ecoland on Facebook

6. Follow Ecoland on Twitter

Giveaway ends April 04, 2011 @ midnight CST. Winner will be chosen at random, using random.org and contacted by e-mail and has 48 hrs to respond before a new winner is chosen.

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion with the product listed above. I did receive the toddler combo crew sock set mentioned above complementary for this review. No monetary compensation was received.

DownEast Basics Review and Giveaway

I am always on the lookout for fun, affordable and fashionable clothing and to be honest I have a hard time finding clothing that I love at an affordable price….well that was until I was recently introduced to DownEast Basics! After browsing their entire online selection I was thrilled when I was offered the opportunity to review an item from the 2011 Spring line!

My Thoughts:

I was given the opportunity to choose an item from DownEast Basics new 2011 Spring line and I have to admit it was a difficult task especially with all the beautiful styles available. I finally decided to review the Double Take Jeans. Once I placed my order it didn’t take long at all for my jeans to arrive and I can tell you I was like a kid in a candy store when the showed up at my door and I could not wait to get them on!

My first impression of the jeans were the same as when I seen them online, I just love the design on the back pockets and the color wash of the jeans are awesome as well. I have generally been very cautious of purchasing jeans online since I’m quite particular about how they fit but I put that fear aside when ordering these jeans and I’m so glad I did, I had originally tried to order a size larger than I generally wear but thank goodness they were out of stock! I got a size 10 and they fit amazingly, they aren’t too tight and they are super comfortable, actually they are probably the most comfortable pair of jeans I own!

The one thing I can’t stand about most of my jeans is that they are so low cut that when I bend over I show everyone my behind! Well with the Double Take Jeans from DownEast Basics they are a higher cut which allows me to bend over without fear of showing my booty to everyone behind me!!! Not only are these jeans everything I look for when I purchase jeans they are super durable in the wash and trust me I have worn them over and over again since they arrived and I have absolutely not complaints about their quality and they withstand the wash and dry process like a dream!

Bottom Line:

I can’t say enough good things about the Double Take Jeans from DownEast Basics and if these jeans are any indication of the style, comfort and quality of all the clothing from DownEast Basics they just got themselves a life long customer! I am so thrilled at the comfort of these jeans and if it were possible I would purchase a whole new jean wardrobe from DownEast Basics and say goodbye to all my old jeans! I can’t wait to purchase some of the other stylish Spring clothing from their new 2011 Spring line, I have my eye on a couple of shirts and of course I need a couple pairs of capris to go along with them right??? I can’t wait to get shopping!

If you are looking for comfortable, stylish, affordable and durable clothing I highly recommend checking out the collections available from DownEast Basis. There is sure to be a top, dress, skirt, jeans or accessory that you will just be dying to get your hands on!

Buy It:
To purchase the Double Take Jeans mentioned above and so many more fabulous items visit the DownEast Basics Website!

Win It:
DownEast Basics has very kindly offered one of my super lucky readers an item of their choice from their online selection!

Mandatory Entry: Visit DownEast Basics and browse their new arrivals section and tell me your favorite piece! Please remember to leave your e-mail address if it’s not visible in your profile.

Want or need extra entries? Check out how to grab em’ below! (Mandatory Entry must be complete for these to count)

1. Become a public follower of my blog (2 extra)

2. Follow me on twitter @sgrant2005 and tweet this giveaway (can be done daily)

3. Subscribe to my feed via a reader

4. Blog about this giveaway with a link to this post and to DownEast Basics be sure to leave me a link (5 extra)

5. “Like” DownEast Basics on Facebook

6. Follow DownEast Basics on Twitter

Giveaway ends April 04, 2011 @ midnight CST. Winner will be chosen at random, using random.org and contacted by e-mail and has 48 hrs to respond before a new winner is chosen.

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion with the product listed above. I did receive the Double Take Jeans mentioned above complementary for this review. No monetary compensation was received.

Hoohobbers Review and Giveaway

As most of you already know our little “Bug” just turned three the first of February and although it doesn’t seem like he should be that old he is really growing like a weed and is now in the stage where he wants his own….well everything so when I was contacted by Hoohobbers in regards to reviewing one of their personalized rocking chairs for “Bug” I just could not pass up such a unique opportunity and I knew “Bug” would be thrilled!

About Hoohobbers (taken from website):

Hoohobbers products are made in Chicago, IL. Visit our retail store at our factory: 1657 North Elston Avenue….just one block East off the North Avenue exit on the Kennedy Expressway (I90/94)

Hoohobbers products can be divided into two major categories:
Hard goods- this is what we call our “furniture” items. We use this term to avoid using the word “furniture”, a word which connotes heavy, stationary items. Our ‘hard goods’ are totally different than this. Thy fold, are lightweight and portable; made to be carried by children themselves all around the house. Even outdoors-they’re 100% water safe. At the same time our hard goods are plenty durable. They take the abuse children often give.
Soft goods- these fabric items range from bibs to bedding and from art smocks to Moses Baskets.

Hoohobbers products are recognized by independent third parties for quality and performance:
Patents..Us and international patent offices have awarded Hoohobbers over 75 patents
Design awards….Hoohobbers has received “Best Design” Awards from America’s Juvenile Products Association, each time from over 20,000 products
Parents Choice Award
Museum selection…Hoohobbers products have been voted into the permanent collection of America’s premier modern art museum. MOMA New York’s Museum of Modern Art
Editorial endorsement…Hoohobbers products are often featured in leading women’s and childrens publications
Customer satisfaction…no product has ever been subject to consumer recall

Hoohobbers offers special personalizing and customizing services in quick turn-around times. We will even design product using your own materials.

Our Thoughts:

“Bug” was sent one of Hoohobbers Primary Canvas Kids Rockers embroidered with his name. His rocking chair arrived super fast and to be quite honest I was very surprised at how quickly it arrived especially with it being customized with his name one it. Personalized items usually take a bit to arrive but that was not the case with our rocker from Hoohobbers. The rocker was very securely boxed and arrived in perfect condition.

Once the rocker arrived at our door and we opened it “Bug” immediate had me set it up and he sat in this rocker for a good 30minuets after it arrived and has used it everyday since. We keep it in the living room and he uses it as his eating chair, rocking chair and tv chair. He was very excited to see that the rocking chair had his name on it and I think that is one of the most special things about this particular rocking chair.

Since receiving the chair “Bug” has used it daily and we have taken it just about everywhere with us from his grandparents house to the park if we go somewhere where he may be sitting for any length of time he wants to take his chair and best part is that it folds up and is very light so he can carry it for himself. I love the fact that this rocking chair is water safe and with a wild toddler I can say it has been well tested and it’s super easy to clean when something does happen to get spilt on it.

I am also very impressed with the durability of this rocker, my little man is kind of destructive sometimes even when he isn’t meaning to be and the rocker has withheld all of his abuse and still looks wonderful. I really like the fact that when I am cleaning I can simply fold it up and place it behind the couch so that I can quickly vacuum and then set it right back up and the rockers pop together very securely so that I don’t have to worry about “Bug” getting hurt because it wont collapse.

Bottom Line:

As if you couldn’t tell we love our personalized rocking chair from Hoohobbers and I can tell you it’s is well worth the $49 for all the use that “Bug” has gotten out of it and I’m sure there will be many more days of use on the horizon! All of the other little kiddos who come to visit seem to be drawn to the rocker as well so I think I have a few birthday ideas for a couple of lucky little ones this year.

If you are looking for unique and personalized items for your little ones I highly recommend checking out the awesome selection of products available from Hoohobbers! There is sure to be something for everyone!

Buy It:
To purchase the Primary Canvas Kids Rocker mentioned above and many more awesome products visit the Hoohobbers Website!

Win It:
Hoohobbers has kindly offered one of my readers a $50 gift certificate to purchase a rocker or other item of their choice!

Mandatory Entry: Visit Hoohobbers and tell me what you would choose if you won! Please remember to leave your e-mail address if it’s not visible in your profile.

Want or need extra entries? Check out how to grab em’ below! (Mandatory Entry must be complete for these to count)

1. Become a public follower of my blog (2 extra)

2. Follow me on twitter @sgrant2005 and tweet this giveaway (can be done daily)

3. Subscribe to my feed via a reader

4. Blog about this giveaway with a link to this post and to Hoohobbers be sure to leave me a link (5 extra)

5. “Like” Hoohobbers on Facebook

6. Follow Hoohobbers on Twitter

Giveaway ends April 03, 2011 @ midnight CST. Winner will be chosen at random, using random.org and contacted by e-mail and has 48 hrs to respond before a new winner is chosen.

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion with the product listed above. I did receive the Primary Canvas Kids Rocker mentioned above complementary for this review. No monetary compensation was received.

Bummas Review and Giveaway

Today marks the first official day of Spring and with spring in the air, so comes baby fever! As of right now I have two of my very close friend expecting new additions to their families and my husband and I are currently planning for one of our very own. So when I found out my girls were expecting I immediately set out to find the perfect addition to each of their baby gift baskets for the shower. I know that they are both trying to go green so I immediately thought cloth diapers and wipes and I had heard some great things about Bummas so when I was given the chance to host a review and giveaway I was beyond thrilled and couldn’t wait to try them out!

About Bummas (taken from website):

The creation of Bummas came about when we had our first baby boy. When your first arrives, you are given all kinds of advice:

"Use the wet commercial wipes, don’t use the wet commercial wipes, use gauze; use whatever is handy to block the pee; use another diaper to block the pee; don’t use that, use this; use powder to dry them off, don’t use powder-it contains talc and studies have linked talc to cancer.”

The one thing that was never mentioned was how to dry our little guy’s “stuff” off after the clean up. Our baby’s bum was just way too wet to put a diaper back on--and blowing down there until you’re blue in the face just wasn’t working. Thus Bummas were born. A soft absorbent, luxurious baby cloth to soak up all the wetness.

The Routine

Grab a Bumma cloth wipe before opening the diaper. Sneak “attacks” are frequent and will happen the second you open the diaper! Place the Bumma over the privates while tending to the other parts.

One Bumma will soak up an entire pee. Clean up baby with a regular wipe or wet a Bumma and clean up sensitive skin. Use another Bumma to thoroughly dry baby off. Re-diaper. If the cover Bumma gets soaked rinse it off and throw it in the wash. The payoff- a dry bum, no diaper rash, and no surprise squirts. Save money on diapers, and save by not having to buy powder, and ointment.

My Thoughts:

I was given the opportunity to choose either the girls set or boys set of Bummas for review and since we are still potty training “Bug” I decided to get the boys set for him to try out. Our Bummas arrived very quickly and I immediately begin using them.

Not only are these cloths super soft and colorful they are very absorbent. “Bug” still uses a diaper at night and to be quite honest he can wake up seriously wet some mornings and it’s tough to dry him off good enough to put on his big boy undies so I started using Bummas and solved that problem asap! Another thing I love about Bummas is that they are resusable, once you use them you can simply rinse them off and toss them in with the regular laundry and they come out clean as new!

Since we started using the Bummas on a daily basis I’ve noticed that “Bug” doesn’t complain about his bottom itching or burning like he did with the use of traditional disposable wipes. I have completely quit using the wipes to clean “Bug” and I can say that Bummas has saved us a hefty sum not having to buy wipes on a weekly basis and they work so much better than the wet wipes when I simply dampen them with water and instantly I have a reusable wet wipe. I have also used them in the bath tub as a soft wash cloth for “Bug” to replace the rougher wash cloths we have.

Bottom Line:

I love Bummas and I wish I would have discovered them a long time ago when “Bug” was first born they would have saved us tons on wipes and probably helped keeping his little bum from getting an awful diaper rash! After trying Bummas for myself I have made up my mind to buy a set of Bummas for both of my girl friends who are expecting and put them in their gift baskets. Not only will these super soft cloths work great for cleaning the little bums and keeping them nice and dry they will also double great as a burp rage if one is needed!

If you are looking for a colorful yet useful addition to a baby shower gift for if you are a mom yourself looking to go green and cut back on cost of paper wet wipes I highly recommend picking up some of the Bummas for yourself! I know your going to love them as much as we do!

Buy It:
To purchase the boys Bummas set mentioned above and many more colors visit the Bummas Website!

Win It:
Bummas has kindly offered one of my readers their very own set of Bummas, in winners color choice of course (arv $16.99) (US and Canada Only)

Mandatory Entry: Visit Bummas and tell me what set you would choose if you won! Please remember to leave your e-mail address if it’s not visible in your profile.

Want or need extra entries? Check out how to grab em’ below! (Mandatory Entry must be complete for these to count)

1. Become a public follower of my blog (2 extra)

2. Follow me on twitter @sgrant2005 and tweet this giveaway (can be done daily)

3. Subscribe to my feed via a reader

4. Blog about this giveaway with a link to this post and to Bummas be sure to leave me a link (5 extra)

5. “Like” Bummas on Facebook

Giveaway ends April 03, 2011 @ midnight CST. Winner will be chosen at random, using random.org and contacted by e-mail and has 48 hrs to respond before a new winner is chosen.

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion with the product listed above. I did receive the Boys Bummas Set mentioned above complementary for this review. No monetary compensation was received.

Farm Rich Snacks and Appetizers Review and Giveaway

Since I started college I have noticed that when I return home from a day full of classes that I have a hankering for a snack just like when I was in high school. I generally try to keep “Bug’s” favorite snacks on hand for him but I’m not much into Goldfish and such for snacks so recently I had the chance to try out a product from Farm Rich and I have now found my after school snacks!!!

About Farm Rich (taken from website):

Farm Rich® products have been setting the standard for delicious, easy-to-prepare food the whole family loves.

Farm Rich® foods taste like nothing else because they're made like nothing else – with 100% real ingredients like real cheese, high-quality meats and fresh vegetables. Our snacks, appetizers, and breakfast foods are quick-frozen and carefully packaged so busy families can prepare great tasting food within minutes.

Farm Rich® is a Rich's Consumer Brand, which brings to market some of the food industry's leading retail brands including SeaPak® Shrimp Co., Casa Di Bertacchi® and more.

From early morning breakfasts to midnight snacks, we're proud to say Farm Rich® products have become synonymous with high quality and great taste.

Our Thoughts:

We were sent a vip coupon so that we could go to our local grocer and choose a Farm Rich product to review and I have to say that the selection is wonderful and it was difficult to choose just one product but I finally decided on the Pizza Slices, since “Bug” and I both love pizza I felt they would be the best choice.

It wasn’t long after I got home from class the next day that “Bug” and I decided to give the Pizza Slices a try. The preparation and baking is super quick and easy and when you or your kiddos are hungry after a long day in class that’s the most important aspect of a snack right? Well how do they taste you may be asking…well they are delicious! They are unique and different from any of the other pizza snacks I have ate in the past, they have a very authentic pizza style crust and flavor and best of all they are very filling so you don’t have to look for a snack after your snack! They held “Bug” and I over well until dinner.

After trying the Pizza Slices we have purchased a few more of the Farm Rich products like their Mozzarella Sticks and French Toast Sticks for breakfast and I have to say we are thrilled with each of the products we have tried so far and we are planning on trying the entire line of Farm Rich products in the future.

Bottom Line:

We have all really enjoyed the Farm Rich Snacks and Appetizers that we have tried and are planning on trying many more in the future. I have an upcoming baby shower to plan and I can assure you that I’m going to have Farm Rich snacks laid out for our guest! I feel very confident in the flavor of Farm Rich products to serve them to all our friends and family.

If you are looking for a quick and easy snack for your self or your kiddos after a long day at school or just for a quick snack we highly recommend Farm Rich and their Pizza Slices!!!

Buy It:
To purchase the Farm Rich Pizza Slices mentioned above and so many more yummy products visit the Farm Rich website to find a retail location near you!


Win It:
Farm Rich sent me two VIP coupons to try their products, I only used one and I would like to offer the other coupon good for a free Farm Rich product to one of my lucky readers!

Mandatory Entry: Visit Farm Rich and tell me what one product you would like to try! Please remember to leave your e-mail address if it’s not visible in your profile.

Want or need extra entries? Check out how to grab em’ below! (Mandatory Entry must be complete for these to count)

1. Become a public follower of my blog (2 extra)

2. Follow me on twitter @sgrant2005 and tweet this giveaway (can be done daily)

3. Subscribe to my feed via a reader

4. Blog about this giveaway with a link to this post and to Farm Rich be sure to leave me a link (5 extra)

5. “Like” Farm Rich on Facebook

6. Follow Farm Rich on Twitter

Giveaway ends April 03, 2011 @ midnight CST. Winner will be chosen at random, using random.org and contacted by e-mail and has 48 hrs to respond before a new winner is chosen.

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion with the product listed above. I did receive the VIP coupons mentioned above complementary for this review. No monetary compensation was received.

SeaPak Review and Giveaway

The one thing we love around our home at dinner time is sea food! I’m not much of a chef when it comes to cooking sea food so we generally have to go to a sea food restaurant to get our fix, the only problem with that is that the nearest sea food place near us is 160 miles from our home, and lets face it that’s quite a ways to have to drive for dinner! Recently I was given an opportunity to review a product from SeaPak here on The Cartoon Lovin’ Mama and I just couldn’t pass up the opportunity!

About SeaPak (taken from website):

The SeaPak Shrimp Company is the #1 retail brand within the frozen specialty seafood category. For 60 years, we've provided the highest quality, best-tasting shrimp. Quite simply, we're the shrimp experts. The SeaPak Shrimp Co. is known for its care and attention in choosing only the best shrimp for its retail and foodservice products.

The Story
Since 1948, SeaPak has provided a wide variety of great-tasting, easy-to-prepare shrimp and seafood products of the highest quality to seafood lovers everywhere.

Whether you prefer delicious, perfectly-seasoned seafood right from the package or you like to customize a recipe with your own special touches, SeaPak has a shrimp or seafood variety for you.

The SeaPak Shrimp Company. Making Great Shrimp Easy ®

Our Thoughts:

We were sent a vip coupon so that we could go to our local grocer and choose a SeaPak product to review and as easy as I thought this would be, I was very wrong! After much debate about which of the SeaPak products we wanted to try we decided on the Coconut Shrimp. When we do get the luxury to visit our favorite sea food restaurant 160 miles away from our home I always get the coconut shrimp so I just had to give the SeaPak Coconut Shrimp a shot to see if it was as good as the restaurants!

Once we got ready for dinner I prepared the shrimp according to the label instructions. I could not believe how easy it was to prepare and how quickly dinner was ready! We decided to pair the Coconut Shrimp up with garlic mashed potatoes and steamed veggies. The meal was delicious. I could not believe how amazing the SeaPak Coconut Shrimp tasted it was just like the restaurants only we didn’t have to drive to get it and it cost way less!

Now that we have tried the Coconut Shrimp from SeaPak I can’t wait to try out some of the other varieties available. I’ve always been a bit iffy of frozen premade sea foods but SeaPak has completely changed my mind and I can’t wait to try some of their other yummy looking products! They also offer some awesome recipes on their website so I am going to be sure to try some of them out this summer to help with our quick and easy meals after our long days outside.


Bottom Line:

Everyone was thrilled with the way the SeaPak Coconut Shrimp tasted and I can guarantee that SeaPak will be on our shopping list for years to come as long as they continue to make such amazing shrimp products! The preparation was super easy and the taste was amazing!! We had a restaurant quality meal at home without the harsh price!

If you want restaurant quality sea food at a fraction of the price and in the comfort of your own home without spending the entire day slaving in the kitchen I highly recommend picking up a package of SeaPak Coconut Shrimp or one of their other easy to prepare meals!

Buy It:
To purchase the SeaPak Coconut Shrimp mentioned above and so many more yummy products visit the SeaPak website to find a retail location near you!

Sweepstakes Alert:

I just wanted to share the sweepstakes SeaPak has going on right now over at their website HERE! Be sure to check it out and get your name in for the awesome prize!

Win It:
SeaPak sent me two VIP coupons to try their products, I only used one and I would like to offer the other coupon good for a free SeaPac product to one of my lucky readers! Y’all know I love Ya!

Mandatory Entry: Visit SeaPak and tell me what one product you would like to try! Please remember to leave your e-mail address if it’s not visible in your profile.

Want or need extra entries? Check out how to grab em’ below! (Mandatory Entry must be complete for these to count)

1. Become a public follower of my blog (2 extra)

2. Follow me on twitter @sgrant2005 and tweet this giveaway (can be done daily)

3. Subscribe to my feed via a reader

4. Blog about this giveaway with a link to this post and to SeaPak be sure to leave me a link (5 extra)

5. “Like” SeaPak on Facebook


Giveaway ends April 03, 2011 @ midnight CST. Winner will be chosen at random, using random.org and contacted by e-mail and has 48 hrs to respond before a new winner is chosen.

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion with the product listed above. I did receive the VIP coupons mentioned above complementary for this review. No monetary compensation was received.

Invisible Glass Spring Cleaning Review and Giveaway

Spring is finally just right around the corner and all I can say is it’s about time! Winter has been brutal here in Arkansas this year, it’s the worst winter I can remember and I’ve lived here all 25 years of my life. With Spring comes the duty of Spring cleaning and I’ve already started on mine since the weekends have been on the Spring like side, I decided to tackle my windows on my home and getting my car back clean. So when I was given the opportunity to review the Ultimate Kit from Invisible Glass I was very excited to say the least, I’ve heard some great things about their products and I couldn’t wait to try them for myself.

About Invisible Glass (taken from website):


Invisible Glass was developed with two simple objectives: superior cleaning power and “invisible” clarity. When you compare Invisible Glass to ordinary “blue water” glass cleaners, you’ll immediately see how quickly it removes even the most difficult grime, making glass virtually “disappear”. Use Invisible Glass to clean windows, mirrors, windshields, and other glass surfaces at home, work, and play.

Invisible Glass is engineered with a multi-component formula that is more powerful than other glass cleaners. It quickly removes oily dirt, dust, fingerprints, sap, bugs, droppings, grease, adhesives, smudges, smoke haze, plasticizer film, pollutants, and other difficult grime.

Other glass cleaners contain dyes, scents, soaps, and water. These inexpensive ingredients often remove just basic dirt and leave streaky residue which is difficult or impossible to remove. Invisible Glass contains NO soaps, foams, scents, or dyes. It evaporates quickly and completely, leaving glass clean and clear with NO streaks, haze, or residue.

SAFE to use on original equipment manufactured (OEM) and most after-market TINTED windows when used as directed. Always test on non-glass surfaces before using. Not recommended for use on polycarbonate plastic.

Our Thoughts:

Like I mentioned above we were sent an Ultimate Glass Cleaning Kit that included: one each of Invisible Glass aerosol, trigger, wipes canister, and Reach & Clean glass cleaning tool kit, 2 packets of Invisible Glass with Rain Repellent (2 wipes/packet), 1 Headlight Lens Restoration Kit, 20 individually packaged Lens Wipes, and 1 micro fiber glass cleaning towel. Our kit arrived very quickly via UPS and I can tell you my husband and I couldn’t wait to get started trying all of our new goodies out!

The first task I decided to tackle was my windows and mirrors in my car, with all the snow and yuck we have had this winter they were pretty nasty and I felt it was a good place to start. To get my car’s windows looking great I decided to use the Invisible Glass aerosol, wipes, reach & clean glass cleaning tool kit, Invisible Glass w/rain repellent and the headlight lens restoration kit. Now, I have to say that I have used many different glass cleaning products on my vehicles before but none of them have given me such amazing results, I was quite surprised and super happy with how clean my glass and windows turned out.

Since using them that one time on my car they made me a believer, I have now used them not only on my car windows and mirrors but I’ve used them on every glass surface in my home and I can guarantee that I will be keeping a stash of Invisible Glass products on hand from here on out. I have used everyone of the products listed above and I really have nothing but good things to say about each of them but to save time I will just talk about a couple of my absolute favorites. The Reach & Clean glass cleaning tool kit, which makes reaching those hard to reach parts of my windshield and the taller windows in my home super quick and easy. The Invisible Glass aerosol which leaves all my windows and glass surfaces streak free and so clean that it’s almost as if the glass isn’t even there. I also love the wipes, they are perfect for a quick fix when little fingers gets on my windows or the TV. The last product I want to gush about is the Lends Wipes, these are perfect for cleaning my glasses, sunglasses and my computer screen….I just love all the products we were sent.


Bottom Line:

Invisible Glass is amazing it really does work exactly the way it says it does, unlike other window products I’ve used in the past Invisible Glasses cleans my glass surfaces with no streaks and leaves them shining beautifully! Since having this experience with Invisible Glass products I will always have their products on hand for all my glass cleaning needs.

If you are looking for a product to help make your Spring cleaning routine easier and that will make your glass surfaces sparkle without streaks and a giant mess I highly recommend checking out the amazing selection of products available from Invisible Glass!

Buy It:
To purchase the Ultimate Glass Cleaning Kit mentioned above for only $29.95 visit the Invisible Glass website!

Win It:
Invisible Glass has so generously offered one of my readers the Ultimate Glass Cleaning Kit, so they can experience the powers of super glass cleaning.

Mandatory Entry: Visit Invisible Glass and tell me what product you would like to try! Please remember to leave your e-mail address if it’s not visible in your profile.

Want or need extra entries? Check out how to grab em’ below! (Mandatory Entry must be complete for these to count)

1. Become a public follower of my blog (2 extra)

2. Follow me on twitter @sgrant2005 and tweet this giveaway (can be done daily)

3. Subscribe to my feed via a reader

4. Blog about this giveaway with a link to this post and to Invisible Glass be sure to leave me a link (5 extra)

Giveaway ends March 24, 2011 @ midnight CST. Winner will be chosen at random, using random.org and contacted by e-mail and has 48 hrs to respond before a new winner is chosen.

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion with the product listed above. I did receive the products mentioned above complementary for this review. No monetary compensation was received.