Patty cake, patty cake, bakers man {Oshi Mat review & giveaway}

When I was a new mom, I was constantly worried about every place I put my baby down on when we were away from home. I had blankets for EVERYTHING!! I took him to a couple of newborn classes and didn’t even put him down because I didn’t want the blanket touching the floor, and then what if I reused said blanket on the way home and the side that was floor down was the side that touched his face??…. Yeah…I was a little OCD about the whole thing. Granted it was RSV season and my little guy had some lung troubles when he wasborn and spent some time in the NICU, so I did have a somewhat good reason to fret. I am happy to say that I have gotten WAY better about the whole germ thing. I even let him eat dropped puffs, cheerios, and maybe even an occasional grape off the kitchen floor from under his high chair… Yes… I do steam the floor regularly!!! More on dropped food later!

All I can say is that I wish I had had something to lay him on when I took him out. I came across the Oshi mat and boy do I wish I had had it then… and am really looking forward to the possibilities for the the next baby. Allow me to introduce you to the Oshi mat.

The Oshi mat was born out of a mothers neccessity. Here is her story…. I love reading about how ideas came to people so that is why I share them here!

The story…

When my firstborn son was 4 months of age, I attended my first baby class. Like almost all baby programs, the classroom was covered with a rough hard carpet and mothers were politely asked to take off their shoes and wear socks. Still, I can remember wondering about all the bacteria collected over the years in that carpet -buggies, dirty diapers, feet, viruses, saliva- and how uncomfortable it must feel for my little baby to lay on. Most mommies took out baby blankets and laid their babies on them… but soon all the mommies noticed that the blankets were too breathable to provide any protection, did not make the floor any softer, made them spend the entire class trying to keep the blankie flat, and their babies just wanted to put the blankie in their mouth!

After attending many classes and watching mommies struggle with their unruly blankets, I thought there had to be a better way! I decided to make a surface specifically designed for these infamous baby classes. Soon enough realizing, I needed a sterile comfy surface not only for these baby classes, but for my home, traveling, outings, hotels, airports, my parents house, play dates and so much more!

The concept…

First, I needed a material that could lay flat but still be flexible enough to store in a compact way. I needed an easy to clean material. I needed something with cushion so that my baby would be comfortable and safe. So naturally, a mat came to mind! But not one made out of any material… a non- toxic, 100% PVC/Latex FREE foam! The only material with these characteristics was one made of 100% Thermal Plastic Elastomer (TPE). Second, I needed a specific shape, one that would accommodate mother and child during activities. Oshi mat’s specific patented design allows for mothers to sit comfortably during interactions and for babies to lay spaciously and securely at the same time. Third, it had to be pretty… like all moms, I love beautiful things for my baby. Our amazing graphic designer takes time and effort to develop gorgeous art designs for our mats. And lastly, I needed a convenient way to carry this mat, so I added the easy to carry Oshi bag to the design!

Innovative shape provides adults and babies maximum comfort, easily rolls out into a roomy surface protecting your baby from the common germs and bacteria found in most areas, made of environmentally friendly and non-toxic PVC/ Latex-free foam, in one side the texture has been designed to keep your mat steady on the surface you lay it on, and the top of your mat has a smooth surface that provides incredible softness for the mom and baby. Great gift ideas for baby showers!

The Oshi mat is such a versatile mat! I LOVE LOVE LOVE the idea of a clean, soft place for a new baby, but since my little munchkin is crawling and cruising all over the house, we are using it for other things…. including keeping the floor protected when we eat! I love that it fits perfectly under the highchair and can be wiped down really easily after meals. Or, if I don’t get it wiped up right away, I can rest assured that the food my little scavenger is picking up is still clean! Brilliant! I also love that it is made from a non-toxic material… my little guy LOVES putting anything in his mouth, so I can rest assured. I’m also really looking forward to using it as a chill-out mat. We aren’t to discipline yet, but when we are I have a feeling it will come in real handy! Or maybe it will come in handy for a play time/quiet time mat once he is old enough to know what quiet time is. The possibilities are endless! Thanks Oshi Mat!! The Oshi Mat is available online. If you want to check out some great newsletters featuring Oshi mat, click here!

This mat comes REAL MOM recommended!

Today Oshimat.com is generously giving away a free oshimat,

winners choice of design!

Want to win? Here’s how:

Mandatory 1st Entry- Visit Oshimat.com, then come back and tell us your favorite item or something you learned from their website.

Once the mandatory entries are completed you can gain additional entries from the following:

4 entries-“Like” Oshi mat on facebook. ( Post: “Real Moms Real Views sent me!”)

2 entries- “Like” RMRV on facebook.

3 entries-Subscribe to RMRV emails.

3 entries-Follow Oshi mat on Twitter.

1 entry per day-Tweet the following and leave us your tweet link:

#Enter to win an Oshi mat at @agiveawaydaily

5 entries- Blog about this entry and leave us the link.

You have until October 21st @ 11:59 PM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open to USA only.

This site receives free products and other forms of compensation for posting. See the Real Moms Real Views disclosure here.

Audrey

Audrey has one very sweet baby boy & has been married for 5 years. She is a licensed massage therapist and enjoys being a SAHM with her little munchkin! She loves working out…especially running, cooking, shopping, makeup, reading, playing the piano, traveling, & spending time with family!
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This site receives free products and other forms of compensation for posting. See the Real Moms Real Views disclosure & giveaway rules here.

Audrey October 7, 2011 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS Baby, baby gear, baby safety, kitchen

Green is Good! {Green Works Review}

Confessional #2: I don’t love to clean. Don’t get me wrong, I still do it, I just don’t love doing it. I am not one of those people who has an immaculate house. I don’t spends hours upon hours a day cleaning. My husband wishes I did, but with four kids, work, softball, football and dance classes I simply just don’t have the time, or the desire. Therefore, anything I can do to make cleaning faster or easier, I am in!! I hate to do things twice. If I wash the clothes, (which I don’t because I have the best hubby in the world who does ALL of the laundry) but if I did, I would want them to come out clean the first time.

Green Works not only make products that are incredibly powerful, but they are also safe. If you’re expecting or have kids, you may not want all of the chemicals in your house. “Clean with the Power of Mother Nature. At Green Works®, we believe that cleaning products should be tough on dirt, grease and grime — not on your kids, pets or home.” There is a short little video on their web site that has tips for keeping your home free of chemicals.

We received a few different products to try. First, the cleaning wipes. I am a strong believer that children should have chores. My children rotate between cleaning 2 of our 3 bathrooms. I have, in the past, had to do a lot of the cleaning and wiping for them because of the chemicals in the cleaners. They were able to use these wipes and did a great job with them.

We also received a few laundry products including liquid laundry detergent, chlorine-free bleach, and oxi stain remover. Like I said, my hubby does all of the laundry, so I asked him what he thought of these products. He said, “Well, everything came out clean.” Obviously, that is what you want when you do laundry, but it doesn’t always happen that way. So when everything came out clean, no second wash needed, that is great! Plus, it has such a wonderful clean scent. The chlorine-free bleach is a perfect way to get those those tough stains out of whites and colors. Yes, I said colors! That makes this an accident free bleach! The oxi stain remover is a new must have in our home. My kids wear a uniform to school. Part of that uniform is a white polo shirt. I am sure the person who made this dress code doesn’t have kids, cuz if they did white would not have been their first choice. Kids just can’t keep it clean. Mine regularly come home with lunch dripped here or there. With my lack of time, I make a quick paste of the oxi stain remover and water and slap it on the spots. It then sits until laundry day rolls around and their dad finishes my job. I was shocked when I saw a shirt that I was sure was doomed come out perfectly clean. Amazing!

These products are wonderful. I wouldn’t have thought a “natural” product could stand up to the products that I have used in the past. I am not sure why I thought all of the chemicals and dyes made them better, but they don’t. Without them, they are safer. With children, safe is what I need!

Here is link to sign up for their newsletter and receive a $1 off coupon.

This site receives free products and other forms of compensation for posting. See the Real Moms Real Views disclosure here.

Erin

Erin is a mommy to 4 fab kiddos! She serves as their maid, cook, and taxi driver. She has been married to the “man of her dreams” for 11 years now. They love spending every free minute together enjoying activities such as camping, swimming, playing games and having movie night.
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This site receives free products and other forms of compensation for posting. See the Real Moms Real Views disclosure & giveaway rules here.

Erin September 6, 2011 PRODUCT REVIEWS, Uncategorized baby safety, cleaning, eco-friendly, home

Right, Left, Right, Left {The Juppy Baby Walker Giveaway} CLOSED

As a TTC woman, I love learning about products that I can use in the future…hopefully near future. I enjoy reading people’s do’s and don’ts, must-have lists, and things to watch out for. When I find products that I hear great things about it makes me even more excited to become a mother.

As a young girl I, and perhaps most other girls, dreamed about how I am going to dress my children, how I am going to decorate their rooms, when I am going to take them to Disneyland, etc. I enjoy dreaming up the future of my children.

One thing I have never put too much thought into though, is my child’s first steps. I have always just imagined that I would strap my baby’s little Nike’s on them and watch them take their first step. Sure there would be some slips and falls but I could just sit back with my video camera and watch them go. From crawl to walk over night, right!? I learned that I have been naive.

Mothers, are you nodding your heads? Are you thinking to yourself, “If only it were that easy!” I know I have said some things like my above thoughts before and my sisters have said, “You just wait! You are going to be in for a real eye-opening.”

Well apparently teaching a child to walk is a strain on the parents’ back. Hunching over to prop them up by their little arm pits isn’t as enjoyable and fun as a person might think. Not to mention that a child learning how to walk may take a few dangerous spills.

The Juppy Baby Walker has created a baby walker that makes sense. This baby walker is a “doctor recommended training aid for teaching your baby how to walk while saving the strain and stress on your back.” AND! to make it even better…it helps your baby to walk sooner!

“The baby is placed in the seat of the Juppy while mom or dad simply holds on to the straps, while standing upright, to give support to the baby. Typically parents tend to hold their babies by the hands or under the arms to teach them to walk. This causes stress and strain on the lower back of the parent and could cause injuries to the child’s arms or joints. The Juppy Baby Walker reduces your pain and eliminates possible injury to your child.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics has called for a ban of baby walkers with wheels and it is illegal to sell wheeled baby walkers in Canada. These can be dangerous. We all know how fast a child can get away from us. I have even heard of children falling down the stairs in rolling baby walkers.

Start by picking what color you want: blue or pink. Simply place the baby in The Juppy as if you are sliding on a pair of pants and zip the back of it up. It holds a child up to 30 lbs and is recommended for ages 7 months or 13 months. The straps are adjustable to fit short and tall parents. When you are done using it, return it to it’s carrying bag!

I can hardly wait to be teaching my child such a fun skill to learn. I am going to teach them to walk at home, at the park, at Grandma’s, everywhere! And, I can because it is the only baby walker than can fit in a purse.

Check out more unbiased reviews of The Juppy Baby Walker.

Today The Juppy Baby Walker is giving one lucky winner…

Their choice of a pink or blue Juppy! (a $24.95 value)

Want to win? Here is how to enter. Leave one comment for each eligible entry.

1st Entry–MANDATORY–Tell us what color you would pick if you won
1 Entry–Go to The Juppy Baby Walker and tell us one thing you learned not mentioned above.
1 Entry per day–Follow The Juppy Baby Walker on Twitter and AGE and tweet the following: Win a Juppy Baby Walker! http://tinyurl.com/juppybabywalker
1 Entry–”Like” Juppy on Facebook
2 Entries–Subscribe to Real Moms Real Views emails
5 Entries–Make a purchase from Juppy

You have until October 21st @ 11:59 AM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open to USA only. Winners will be chosen by random.org and will be contacted by email after the giveaways close. The winner will then have 48 hours to claim their giveaway by email. If the winner does not claim their prize within their 48 hour period, a new winner will be chosen. *All entries received after the cutoff time will be deleted prior to choosing a winner. Opinions expressed in this post are strictly our own. We were not paid for this post. Thank you The Juppy Baby Walker for providing product for this review and giveaway.

Crissa

Crissa graduated from Brigham Young University in 2005 with a BA in Home and Family Living….the mom degree! Shortly after she found her dream guy and was married. They are now expecting their first baby in 2012. She loves shopping, baking, getting pampered, blogging, chocolate, and traveling.
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This site receives free products and other forms of compensation for posting. See the Real Moms Real Views disclosure & giveaway rules here.

Crissa October 14, 2010 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS Baby, baby gear, baby safety, learning tools

Bedtime Safety! {My Precious Kid Giveaway} CLOSED

The folks at KidCo know that your child’s safety is your number one priority. That’s why KidCo specializes in designing products to keep your child secure, at home, or on the road. The KidCo Convertible Crib Bed Rail brings the company’s safety expertise to bear on your tot’s sleeptime. The Kidco Crib Bed Rail can be used with most convertible cribs and installing it is a snap! Makes the transition from crib to big-kid bed less stressful for both you and your child.

With the new baby arriving this Fall, it’s time to start thinking about transitioning our son from his crib to a toddler bed. Mostly since I don’t see the sense in buying another crib when he is just about at the right age to move into a big boy bed. My first concern was his safety, I am very strict about making sure I have the right child safety products to keep him safe. I was super worried about him rolling out of the bed since he moves from end to end through out the night in his crib right now. My Precious Kid sent us the Kidco Toddler Bed Rail to help ease the transition from crib to toddler bed within his crib. When it arrived I was able to pull it out of the box and put together (no tools required) within 15 minutes. I found it very easy to work. This bed rail will give me so much peace of mind once we transition him. Thanks Kidco for making such great products to keep our little ones safe!

The Kidco Toddler Bed Rail retails at $34.99 and you can pick your own up here.

Plus you can use code: 10JAS10 and get 10% off!

My Precious Kid is offering you a FREE GIFT. Go here to get it!

Today, we have a Home Safety Kit to giveaway to one RMRV reader! ($19.99 value!)

Want to enter to win? Here’s how:

1st entry {madatory’} Visit My Precious Kid and take a look around. Come back and tell us another product that you would like to own.

3 entries: ‘Like’ My Precious Kid on Facebook and leave a comment on their wall that RMRV sent you!

1 entry per day: Follow My Precious Kid on Twitter and tweet the following:

Come enter to win a Home Safety Kit from @MyPreciousKid over @agiveawaydaily http://goo.gl/fb/8Ltnl

1 entry each: Follow Real Moms Real Views on Google Friends Connect, subscribe in a reader or join the email list.

2 entries: Visit the My Precious Kid blog and leave a comment on any of their posts.

5 entries: Head over to My Precious Kid on You Tube and watch one of their videos. Then come back and tell us what it was about.

You have until September 14th @ 11:59 AM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open to USA only. Winners will be chosen by random.org and will be contacted by email after the giveaways close. The winner will then have 48 hours to claim their giveaway by email. If the winner does not claim their prize within their 48 hour period, a new winner will be chosen. *All entries received after the cutoff time will be deleted prior to choosing a winner. Opinions expressed in this post are strictly our own. We were not paid for this post. Thanks My Precious Kid for providing the Bed Rail for this review and Safety Kit for this giveaway!

Hollie

Hollie is the owner and coordinator of Real Moms Real Views. She loves spending time with her family which consists of her handsome hubby and three kiddos ages three and under. She loves her fur baby (dog), the smell after it rains, red nail polish, chick flicks, and anything chocolate!
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This site receives free products and other forms of compensation for posting. See the Real Moms Real Views disclosure & giveaway rules here.

Hollie September 7, 2010 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS baby safety, safety

Splish! Splash! Washin’ Baby In The Bath {Flexibath Giveaway} CLOSED

Quiz time:

Tubby time with your baby is:

A) Fun

B) A wet mess

C) A backache waiting to happen

If you answered A, B, and/or C, pay attention!

EasyWalker is helping make bath time fun for both parent and child. The Flexibath is a foldable bathtub. When folded up, not only does it save space, but it is easy to store unlike bulky baby bathtubs. It almost helps mom and dad to not have t get down on their knees and lean over the tub. The Flexibath can be filled up and placed on a counter top, making washing and monitoring your child a breeze. No more water running down your arm, sore back, and a huge tub filled with water.

The Flexibath, made in Denmark, is suitable for ages 0-4! It is made from PVC free materials and is a super soft plastic. There is a non-slip bottom and is available in three different color combinations: white and grey, blue and dark blue, or pink and red.

The Flexibath won the Formland Design Award and the Kind Jugend Innovation Award for baby care!

I received the white and grey bath. It is such a wonderful product! The plug at the bottom of the tub drains the water quickly and easily. The Flexibath is only 2.5″ wide when folded for storage. When opened it is large…15″ wide x 26″ long x 9″ high! It weighs a mere 2.9 lbs. Talk about easy to put out of sight. The other thing I like about the Felxibath is I feel like it would be safer for a baby to be in than a regular tub. Less room and less water just feels safer to me.

EasyWalker is giving one lucky winner…

A Flexibath (retail value $39.99)

Want to win? Here is how to enter. Leave one comment for each eligible entry:

1st Entry–MANDATORY–Go to Flexibath and tell us the closest place you could purchase it. If your state isn’t listed, list the URL you could purchase it from.
1 Entry–Which color would you prefer if you won?
1 Entry per day–Follow AGE and Flexibath on Twitter and tweet the following:
Win a Flexibath (RV $39.99) @agiveawaydaily @EasyWalkerUSA http://tinyurl.com/flexibath
2 Entries–”Like” Flexibath on facebook and leave a comment of their wall
5 Entries–Purchase a Flexibath

You have until August 24th @ 11:59 AM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open to USA only. Winners will be chosen by random.org and will be contacted by email after the giveaways close. The winner will then have 48 hours to claim their giveaway by email. If the winner does not claim their prize within their 48 hour period, a new winner will be chosen. *All entries received after the cutoff time will be deleted prior to choosing a winner. Opinions Crissa expressed in this post are strictly our own. We were not paid for this post. Thanks EasyWalker for providing the Flexibath for this review and giveaway!

Crissa

Crissa August 16, 2010 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS Baby, baby safety

Purely Simple {Purely Products Giveaway} CLOSED

Germs come in all shapes and sizes…little boys, stinky shoes, dogs, sponges, and shopping carts. Without germs our immune systems wouldn’t be strong and able to fight off diseases and sickness. However, there are tons of germs that we should protect ourselves from. E-coli, salmonella, mold, fungus and MRSA staph (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) can cause colds and flu. Why would you not avoid getting sick if you could? Well…TADA! You can!

The Pocket Purifer is a lightweight, convenient, and handheld UV germ killer. This little beauty will sanitize surfaces and objects with the same UV-C light that sterilizes surgical instruments. Ultraviolet light and nanotechnology eliminate 99.9% of nasty germs. Now you can kill germs without chemicals, isn’t that very green chic!?

Quick Facts on UV-C light:
–UV-C light is chemical free and odorless.
–UV-C light is invisible. The additional blue light is provided as a reference for the user but it is not the UV-C light itself.
–Indirectly viewing the blue light produced but the UV-C lamp does not cause exposure to UV-C light
–UV-C light sterilizes biological pollutants by penetrating the cell membranes of viruses, bacteria, mold spores and dust mite eggs and stopping their reproductive capabilities – eliminating the disease-causing microbes. (the DNA of cannot reproduce)
–UV disinfectant has been used in hospitals, food processing facilities, water treatment and HVAC systems for over 30 years.

With 4 AA batteries it can sanitize so many things! It is suitable for purifying masks, kitchen counters, sinks and utensils, bathroom surfaces, computer keyboards, remote controls, cell phones, nail clippers, shoes, clothing, bags, scissors, baby toys, pacifiers, diaper pails, cribs, strollers – most everyday items. UV light will not harm function of surfaces or items disinfected. Use this light for 10-15 seconds on most everyday items and wah la! Sanitized!

Purely Products sent me a cute pink ultraviolet light germ eliminator to test out. Did I ever test it out! I used it on my keyboard, my toothbrush, the sponge, my puppy’s toys, my cell…everything I could think of. As a suggestion from Purely Products, I even used it on the cutting board after cutting raw meat on it. I was a germ killing machine! Then I stuck it in my purse to take to work the next day. Later that night, I pulled it out to use the built in flashlight. This dual purpose little gadget has a permanent place in my purse.

Even LPGA Tour Pro Natalie Gulbis, their spokesperson, keeps it in her golf bag and uses it all the time because she travels so much.

Another wonderful gadget Purely Products makes is the Sunmate. This is a must have summer gadget for the outdoor loving family. Now, you can quickly find out the intensity of ultraviolet rays so you can make decisions on skincare protection.

It is easy and simple to use. Just press the little white button and LED indicators light up between 1 and 5 depending upon the intensity of the UV light.

SunMate Indicator Level	National Weather Service Ultraviolet Index Scale
1 – Low	Less than 2 – Low Danger
2 – Moderate	3 to 5 – Moderate Risk
3 – High	6 to 7 – High Risk
4 – Very High	8 to 10 – Very High Risk
5 – Extreme	11 or Higher – Extreme Risk

Easy Peezie! It slips right into a diaper bag, beach bag, purse, golf bag, backpack, anything. Use it for golfing, fishing, snow skiing, boating, softball – any sports; yard work, bicycling, walking, running, hiking, at the park with your kids or at baseball games – any outdoor activity, any day of the year. Knowledge is power!

I used the SunMate when I recently went to an amusement park with my nieces and nephews. Knowing what the suns rays were like helped us know to keep sunscreen on even though it was a little cloudy. Wish I would have had one of these when I was six…long story short you CAN get VERY sunburned when you are at the beach when it is a little cool and overcast.

Purely Products gave each Giveaway Gal the chance to try both of these products. Here are what the others had to say:

I received the Pocket Purifier and Sun Mate for review. I’ve read that the telephone, doorknobs and the computer keyboard are among the germiest places in your home. So I used the Pocket Purifier in these spots along with regular cleaning and I feel a bit better about our home being cleaner. This weekend, we used the Sun Mate when we went to the park with our girls. While we like to go earlier in the morning when it’s cooler, we used the Sun Mate to help us decide if it was time to head for shadier ground. Both of these products are a great companion to the things we do to keep our home and ourselves healthy.

With two children running around, I am constantly washing hands, toys, clothes, everything and anything that gets dirty and germy! I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the Pocket Purifier from Purely Products! This awesome little wand sanitizes surfaces and objects with the same UV-C light that sterilizes surgical instruments. Ultraviolet light and nanotechnology eliminate 99.9% of germs that cause colds and flu, plus e-coli, salmonella, mold, fungus and MRSA (staph). It’s small enough to keep in your purse or diaper bag to have with you to help de-germ that paci that always seems to fall on the ground at the worst possible moment or any other daily item that needs sanitizing! All you have to do is expose the item to the UV-C light for 10-12 seconds and the item or space will be disinfected! So cool and handy to have on-the-go! I have even used mine on my computer keyboard at the house…can’t even imagine all the germs hanging out there! Ewww! So glad to have the Pocket Purifier to help keep my family healthy!

We also received the SunMate from Purely Products! Love this, especially with the intense summer sun we get here in Texas! This little device alerts you of possible over-exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun. Of course, my children are always lathered up in sunscreen from the top of their heads to

the tips of their toes, but it is still good to know when the ultraviolet rays are at their strongest! Perfect for days at the pool, playing outside, or even if we are just out running errands!

In the summer time we spend a lot of time outdoors. I am always concerned about the UV rays and how much sun exposure my family is getting. My little guy is very fair skinned like myself so we tend to get a sunburn very easily. I want to prevent that from happening as much as possible. So when I had the opportunity to test out the SunMate by Purely Products I was very excited. When it arrived I took it outdoors and tested it out. It is very simple to use: all you do is press the white button on the top of the unit and it will measure the UV index of the sun. Then you know just how much UV exposure you and your family are getting when outdoors. I love how small it is, so I can easily keep it in my purse or diaper bag when we travel.

Wait! Purely Products continues to out due themselves. They equipped a medical missions team going to Haiti after the earthquake with Pocket Purifiers to make their job in extreme conditions a bit easier. They had EMT teams using them.

It gets better still! The founder of Purely Products, Myron, and his wife, Megan, parents of toddlers, also founded diaperLove, a non profit that provides diapers to children in need. The founder’s wife was on Craigslist one evening after their second child was born and stumbled upon plea after plea for diapers. As she began an email relationship with one mother new to their area, she was shocked to find out that neither Food Stamps nor WIC helps parents buy diapers. None of the churches or street ministries she tried had diapers. Megan and Myron took diapers, wipes and some food to the young family. The mother told them she could only afford to change her baby after a bowel movement. Other than that, her toddler spent the day in a soiled, wet diaper. It moved Myron and Megan beyond words. After helping more families on their own for several months, after prayerful consideration, they created the non-profit, diaperLove, to provide diapers to children in need. diaperLove accepts donations, of course, but also a percentage of every Purely Products purchase goes to support www.diaperLove.org

Today Purely Products wants to keep doing good by giving one lucky winner…

a Pocket Purifier (a $29.95 value)!!

Want to win? Here is how to enter.

Leave one comment for each eligible entry.

1st entry–MANDATORY–Go to Purely Products and tell us another item (besides the two mentioned above) that you would like to try

1 Entry–What would you use the Pocket Purifier on?

1 Entry–”Like” Purely Products on Facebook

1 Entry per day–Follow AGE and Purely Products on Twitter and tweet the following:

Win a Pocket Purifier @purelyproducts @agiveawaydaily http://tinyurl.com/pocketpurifier

2 Entries–Subscribe to Purely Products feed

2 Entries–Go to the Purely Product blog, leave a comment, and tell us where we can find it

2 Entries–Follow diaperLove on Twitter

2 Entries–”Like” diaperLove on Facebook

5 Entries–Make a purchase from Purely Products

5 Entries–Make a donation to diaperLove

28 possible entries!!

You have until July 29th @ 11:59 AM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open to USA only. Winners will be chosen by random.org and will be contacted by email after the giveaways close. The winner will then have 48 hours to claim their giveaway by email. If the winner does not claim their prize within their 48 hour period, a new winner will be chosen. *All entries received after the cutoff time will be deleted prior to choosing a winner. Opinions expressed in this post are strictly our own. We were not paid for this post. Thank you Purely Products from providing the SunMates and Pocket Purifiers for this review and giveaway. Also thank you for all you do to help struggling parents provide diapers for their little ones!!

Crissa

Crissa July 22, 2010 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS baby safety, cleaning, eco-friendly, home

best jammies for baby {Halo Giveaway} CLOSED

HALO: Helping Keep Babies Happy, Healthy and SafeHALO Innovations is dedicated to keeping children healthy, happy and safe. Since 1994, our founder William Schmid and HALO have worked to develop products that encourage healthier and safer babies as well as bring peace of mind to your home.

We are proud to partner with organizations that work to keep children happy and healthy. Our partnerships include:National Eczema Association, First Candle/SIDS Alliance’s, The Canadian Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths (CFSID), Safe Kids USA , & The Home Safety Council (HSC).

I have been a fan of Halo Innovations for a long time, relying on several of their products, especially the Sleepsack! I was so happy to receive a Technical Comfort System Two Piece Set for Hollis. He was in need of some new pj’s and these are amazing! I got them in black because, well, I like black and he looks cute in black; easy choice! They are offered in several other pretty colors, pink, blue, green, red & more; you’re sure to find your favorite color for your baby! The Two Piece Set is made of Coolmax, a breathable, high performance fabric that will keep your little one comfortable and their skin healthy all year long. It has the properties to help wick moisture away from the skin twice as fast as cotton and helps regulate their body temperature. The pajamas also have an SPF of 30 {awesome!}, so you can protect your babies skin from harmful sunrays, too…if they are wearing them during the day! And these jammies are cute enough to wear anytime, day or night! Hollis has a mild case of eczema, and the Technical Comfort System Two Piece Set has received The National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance! So I know these pajamas are going to help his condition, not irritate it; as many of you mom’s out there know, this gives me great peace of mind. You want to know your children are safe and comfortable in the clothes they are wearing. With Halo, you know for sure, your children are safe, comfortable, and oh, so cute!

You can also find Halo products at Babies “R” Us!

Today, Halo Innovations is giving away one Technical Comfort System 2 Piece Set and one Technical Comfort System Hat!

Want to enter to win? Here’s How!

1st entry {mandatory} Visit Halo Innovations and check out their products! Come back and tell us your favorite!

Additional Entries – Please leave a separate comment for each entry

1 entry: “like” Halo on Facebook!

1 entry: Follow Real Moms Real Views on Google Friends Connect, subscribe in a reader or join the email list

2 entries: Follow Halo on Twitter and tweet the following:

Win Halo Jammies @halosleepsack over at @agiveawaydaily http://goo.gl/fb/66qVu

2 Entries: Add the Real Moms Real Views button to your blog and leave us the link

5 entries: make a purchase from Halo Innovations!

You have until July 26th @ 11:59 AM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open to USA only. Winners will be chosen by random.org and will be contacted by email after the giveaways close. The winner will then have 48 hours to claim their giveaway by email. If the winner does not claim their prize within their 48 hour period, a new winner will be chosen. *All entries received after the cutoff time will be deleted prior to choosing a winner. Opinions expressed in this post are strictly our own. We were not paid for this post. Thanks Halo Innovations for providing the sample Technical Comfort System 2 Piece Set for this review.

Amanda

Amanda is a southern gal that loves coffee shop chit chat with dear friends, daydreaming, and an obsession with with polka dots, scarves, funky jewelry, children’s books, and anything vintage. She has two of the sweetest children that fill her heart and days with happiness.
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This site receives free products and other forms of compensation for posting. See the Real Moms Real Views disclosure & giveaway rules here.

Amanda July 19, 2010 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS Baby, baby safety

Natural and Fun Sun Protection {Episencial Sunblock Giveaway} CLOSED

Episencial is the first company to develop all natural, sustainable baby skin care specifically for today’s actively healthy families. Their high quality baby skin care products are designed with green values in mind. Episencial’s all-natural skin care was inspired by author Eric Carle’s works, including The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

Summer’s almost here and we love the sun, but I’ve always been puzzled about sunblock. Growing up in the 80s, it was good to be tan! My mom still calls sunblock “Suntan Lotion”! Now that I’m a mama, I’ve been unsure about which sunblock is the safest as well as the most effective.

I was so happy to receive Episencial’s Fun Summer Skincare Value Kit. It came with their Sunny Sunscreen SPF 35, Protective Face Balm SPF 6, and Soothing Cream (plus it came with a cute little Very Hungry Caterpillar coloring card).

Our whole family tried the Sunny Sunscreen during an outing over the weekend, and we liked it because it absorbed quickly and didn’t feel as sticky as other sunscreens. We also like Episencial products because they are:

professional quality at an unbeatable price
baby safe for the most sensitive skin – ages 0 to 150
immunity enhancing with doctor recommended, clinically effective formulas
free from all the bad stuff – no harsh chemicals
terrific smelling with real fruit juice extracts – not fragrances
made exclusively with all natural ingredients and lots of organics
beautifully packaged in recycled and sustainable materials – phthalate and BpA free
adorned with art beloved by children for generations, Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar
manufactured under solar power

In addition, out of 500 sunscreens evaluated, Episencial’s Sunny Sunscreen SPF 35 was recently named one of the top sunscreens for safety and effectiveness according to the trusted Environmental Working Group’s annual Sunscreen Guide! Just 35 were chosen! http://www.ewg.org/2010sunscreen/best-beach-sport-sunscreens/

I’m glad I now know what sunscreen to use on my family’s precious skin…it’s so important now more than ever to protect our loved ones from the sun’s harmful rays, while still being able to go outside and enjoy our beautiful outdoor surroundings!

You can purchase the Fun Summer Skincare value kit that I received for $19.99 (a $39.99 value) exclusively at diapers.com. Visit Episencial’s Facebook page to get $10 off an Episencial product with a first-time diaper purchase at diapers.com (look under the “Coupons” tab).

Today, Epsencial is Giving Away…

Episencial’s Sunny Sunscreen SPF 35 (a $14.99 value)

Want to enter to win? Here’s How:

1st Entry {Mandatory}: Visit Episencial and tell us what other product besides the Sunny Sunscreen you’d like to try.

Additional Entries {Please leave one comment per entry}:

2 Entries: Like Episencial on Facebook

2 Entries: Follow Episencial on Twitter

2 Entries: Subscribe to Episencial’s email newsletter (scroll to the bottom of the page)

2 Entries: Follow AGE on Twitter

2 Entries: Like AGE on Facebook

2 Entries per day: Tweet the following and leave us the link: Win Sunny Sunscreen SPF 35 from Episencial @Episencial @agiveawaydaily http://tinyurl.com/2evg69m

1 Entry: Follow Real Moms Real Views on Google Friends Connect, subscribe in a reader or join the email list

3 Entries: Add the Real Moms Real Views button to your blog and leave us the link

3 Entries: Blog about this giveaway and leave us the link

You have until June 16th @ 11:59 AM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open to USA only. Winners will be chosen by random.org and will be contacted by email after the giveaways close. The winner will then have 48 hours to claim their giveaway by email. If the winner does not claim their prize within their 48 hour period, a new winner will be chosen. *All entries received after the cutoff time will be deleted prior to choosing a winner. Opinions expressed in this post are strictly our own. We were not paid for this post. Thanks Episencial for providing the Fun Summer Skincare Value Kit for review.

Hollie

Hollie June 8, 2010 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS Baby, baby safety, kids

buckle up buttercup {COSCO Carseat Review}

My baby is not a little baby anymore…he is growing like a weed! At 8 months, his feet are hanging over the edge of his infant carrier and it weights a good 25 pounds. Yes, my biceps look fabulous, but I am so tired of toting that thing around and very ready to get him in a big boy car seat! With so many options available to us, it can be so difficult to choose a car seat that meet all of your needs and most of all be extremely safe for your child to ride around in. I was thrilled when I heard I was going to be receiving this Alpha Omega Elite Convertible Car Seat from COSCO! With a wide weight range, 5-point harness system, fancy little extras, but most of all exceeding Federal Safety Standards, I know this car seat will keep my boy safe and comfy while he rides in the car!

This extended-use car seat with superior comfort and convenience features can be used from rear-facing infant car seat through to forward-facing car seat and then into booster seat mode. The Alpha Omega Elite™ Convertible Car Seat features 5-point harness with up-front adjustment and a 4-position padded headrest that never needs re-threading.

Rear-facing 5-35 lbs.

Forward-facing 22-40 lbs.

Belt-positioning booster 30-100 lbs.

5-point harness system with up-front adjustment

4 position padded headrest adjusts with harness – never needs rethreading!

3-position recline

Infant head insert

Articulating armrests

Removable cup/juice holder on seat

Removable pillow with padded belt covers

LATCH equipped for rear-facing and forward-facing positions

Meets or exceeds Federal Safety Standards

~COSCO

The Alpha Omega Elite Convertible Car Seat was incredibly easy to install in the car with it’s LATCH system for rear and forward facing positions. We made a few strap adjustments and it was installed, rear facing, in minutes and we were ready to go! Hollis looks like such a big boy in his new convertible car seat, it’s a bit bittersweet, and I can’t believe it! He is also very comfortable. He is able to relax and fall asleep during car rides, which is so nice. I think my favorite feature of this awesome car seat is that it will last us quite a while. It can transition from a rear facing, to forward facing, to a belt-positioning booster; essentially changing with your child! Too cool! The dark black and charcoal colors are also a major plus, definitely won’t show as much dirt as a light colored coarsest. And, yes, I think big sister is a bit jealous of little man’s removable cup holder attached to the seat…it’s the little things! Ha! Most of all, I am thankful to have a safe and sturdy car seat for my son!

Opinions expressed in this post are strictly our own. We were not paid for this post. Thanks COSCO for providing the sample Alpha Omega Elite Convertible Car seat for this review.

Amanda

Amanda April 25, 2010 PRODUCT REVIEWS baby gear, baby safety

A Helpful Guide: Choosing A Baby Crib

When choosing a crib you have so many options and choices. There are standard cribs and convertible cribs just to name a few. Here is a helpful guide from The New Parents Guide to help you with your crib shopping!

The crib you choose for your baby is one of the more important furniture buying choices you will have to make. With your baby sleeping in a crib until it’s time to move on to a full sized bed around the age of 2 or 3, you should take your time in choosing a crib. Be sure that you are satisfied with the safety features, style, finish and quality.

Types of Baby Cribs:

Standard: There are two types of standard cribs.
1) Cribs with a single drop side (One side drops).
2) Cribs with double drop sides (Both sides drop). <Usually more expensive.

Convertible: Convertible cribs convert from a standard crib to a toddler bed and then to a day or full sized bed. Although convertible cribs can be more expensive, it will save you from having to buy a full sized bed when your child outgrows the crib.

Canopy: Canopy cribs have four posts on the corners of the bed, which hold up a metal frame on which you can place fabric canopies. This type of crib can give your nursery room a more elegant and classic look.

Round: Round cribs are becoming a popular option for new parents. These cribs usually have a single drop side.

Features to look for when buying:

Safety:
1) Distances between crib slats are no more that 2 3/8 inches.
2) Dropsides when lowered are at least 9 inches above the mattress support.
3) When dropsides are raised, they are at least 26 inches above the mattress support.
4) Crib mattress fits snugly with no more than two fingers width between crib side and mattress.
5) Secure dropside locking mechanism.
6) No loose or peeling paint, rough corners, edges or splinters.

Mattress support: Sturdy mattress supports that connect to the crib sides securely. Keep in mind metal mattress supports will support a jumping toddler more than wood mattress supports.

Adjustable mattress height: You will be able to lower the mattress as your child grows.

Rolling Casters with some kind of wheel lock. Convenient feature when changing sheets.

Teething rail that covers the tops of the railings, which prevents your toddler from chewing on wood.

Optional products for cribs:

Attachable toys that tie to the railings and musical mobiles that attach to the crib rail both provide entertainment, stimulation and help develop coordination.

Sleep positioners position your baby on his or her back or side.

Teething rails made of plastic can be attached to the rails, which prevent your child from chewing on the wood.

Bumper guards that line all four sides of the crib.

What to avoid:

It is best to avoid second hand and old cribs, especially cribs made before 1973. Cribs made before this time may contain lead paint, have splinters, have slats that are to far apart and many other dangers. Cribs that were manufactured even as recently as 1990 can have safety problems. If you are thinking of using or buying a second hand crib, make sure it has not been recalled.

Has my crib been recalled?

Check these sources to look for crib recalls:

Consumer Reports

Consumer Product Safety Commission

As a final Note

Always send in your product registration card. This is how you will be notified in case of a recall.

Hollie

Hollie April 22, 2010 CHIT CHAT Baby, baby safety

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Patty cake, patty cake, bakers man {Oshi Mat review & giveaway}

The story…

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This mat comes REAL MOM recommended!

Today Oshimat.com is generously giving away a free oshimat,

winners choice of design!

Want to win? Here’s how:

Green is Good! {Green Works Review}

Right, Left, Right, Left {The Juppy Baby Walker Giveaway} CLOSED

Today The Juppy Baby Walker is giving one lucky winner…

Their choice of a pink or blue Juppy! (a $24.95 value)

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Today, we have a Home Safety Kit to giveaway to one RMRV reader! ($19.99 value!)

Splish! Splash! Washin’ Baby In The Bath {Flexibath Giveaway} CLOSED

EasyWalker is giving one lucky winner…

A Flexibath (retail value $39.99)

Purely Simple {Purely Products Giveaway} CLOSED

Today Purely Products wants to keep doing good by giving one lucky winner…

a Pocket Purifier (a $29.95 value)!!

best jammies for baby {Halo Giveaway} CLOSED

HALO: Helping Keep Babies Happy, Healthy and SafeHALO Innovations is dedicated to keeping children healthy, happy and safe. Since 1994, our founder William Schmid and HALO have worked to develop products that encourage healthier and safer babies as well as bring peace of mind to your home.

Natural and Fun Sun Protection {Episencial Sunblock Giveaway} CLOSED

buckle up buttercup {COSCO Carseat Review}

A Helpful Guide: Choosing A Baby Crib

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The story…

The concept…

This mat comes REAL MOM recommended!

Today Oshimat.com is generously giving away a free oshimat,

winners choice of design!

Want to win? Here’s how:

Today The Juppy Baby Walker is giving one lucky winner…

Their choice of a pink or blue Juppy! (a $24.95 value)

Today, we have a Home Safety Kit to giveaway to one RMRV reader! ($19.99 value!)

EasyWalker is giving one lucky winner…

A Flexibath (retail value $39.99)

Today Purely Products wants to keep doing good by giving one lucky winner…

a Pocket Purifier (a $29.95 value)!!

HALO: Helping Keep Babies Happy, Healthy and SafeHALO Innovations is dedicated to keeping children healthy, happy and safe. Since 1994, our founder William Schmid and HALO have worked to develop products that encourage healthier and safer babies as well as bring peace of mind to your home.

GRAB OUR BUTTONS

RMRV BLOG BFF’S

WHAT’S NEW

SEARCH RMRV

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