Keep Those Tiny Fingers Clean {BabyGanics review}

Winter is in full swing! There may be snow on the ground…. if you are like half of us in the mountain west, you are probably still wondering where the snow is… but something that IS here is cold/flu season. If I go to someone’s house to drop off something and they say, “Oh yeah, my kiddo has the flu this week, or hubby,” I feel I can practically see the germs coming around the corner, on the attack for me!! ( I know… I’m a little crazy that way!) I usually leave wanting to douse myself in sanitizer. Now while I haven’t gone to that extreme, I have found something that is absolutely great at killing those pesky germs! BabyGanics is a company started by two fathers who wanted the safest, most effective products around the house for their families. They have a complete line of cleaning products. I was generously sent the “Germinator” to try out. It is a moisturizing, foaming hand sanitizer.

One of the easiest ways to prevent getting sick is to keep your hands clean and germ-free. Constant washing and use of an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is not only a hassle, but it can also dry out your hands. BabyGanics ‘The Germinator’ Alcohol Free Foaming Hand Sanitizer effectively kills 99.9% of germs without the harsh side effects of alcohol and other synthetic chemicals. It instead utilizes benzalkonium chloride, a naturally safe and effective substance which makes The Germinator not only fast acting, but allows for use without water or towels, its non-flammable, will not stain your clothing, and definitely won’t dry out your skin. In fact, this non-toxic formula actually moisturizes as it cleans and is of course the best choice for even the tiniest fingers and hands. BabyGanics ‘The Germinator’ Alcohol Free Foaming Hand Sanitizer is available in a fresh tangerine scent as well as a fragrance free variety.

I was pleasantly surprised by how refreshing the scent of the tangerine is. My hubby commented that it doesn’t smell the way most hand sanitizers do, and I also noticed it also felt SO much more moisturizing as well. It almost feels like lotion being rubbed in, and now 10 minutes later, my hands still feel moisturized. That is awesome because along with germ season comes (extra) hand washing season, which means super dry hands! I will be using this stuff from now on the rest of the winter and long past! If you are looking a moisturizing hand sanitizer that actually sanitizes AND moisturizes, looking no further than BabyGanics Germinator! This sanitizer is REAL Mom Recommended! You can find BabyGanics online at and nationwide at all Babies R Us, Bed Bath & Beyond and Buy Buy Baby locations. Thanks BabyGanics!

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 January 24, 2012 PRODUCT REVIEWS cleaning, eco-friendly, Family, health, home

Naturally Clean {Clorox Green Works review}

I love the feeling of a sparkling clean house. I love how calming the effect is, how clean it smells, but unfortunately not how long it stays clean. With a toddler ruling the roost, it seems that the clean house feeling lasts… until he wakes up from his nap, which is usually when I get to clean. However, having the right stuff to clean with is just as important as actually cleaning. I recently was given the opportunity to try some of Clorox Green Works line of naturally based cleaners and I must say, I think I’m converted! They generously sent me the all purpose cleaner, bathroom cleaner, laundry detergent, and cleaning wipes to try! I was super impressed with all of them!

Let me tell you a little bit about the Green Works brand of Clorox, the cleaning brand we all know and trust!

A balanced, natural lifestyle begins with a clean home. That’s why the people at Clorox got to work on a line of products that clean powerfully without harsh chemical fumes or residue.

something wonderful at work

The team behind Green Works® took it up as a personal cause. We knew that moms like us were looking for ways to live a more natural lifestyle — and we made it our mission to help them achieve this goal.

ingredients for success

The first task at hand? We had to find a formula that was naturally derived, affordable — and worked great. First, we started with what we knew best — how to make things clean. Then we figured out how to make the components of that formula naturally derived.

putting the “green” in Green Works®

At the time, there was no industry standard for natural, so we looked at some existing definitions and set the bar even higher. Our products:

Are made with plant- and mineral-based cleaning ingredients.
Come from biodegradable ingredients that are naturally derived
Are not tested on animals.
Use environmentally sustainable packaging whenever possible.
Are acknowledged by the EPA’s Design for the Environment program.

I was super impressed with how great a job the all purpose cleaner and bath room cleaner did. Just a couple sprays tackled everything from dried spaghetti sauce on the stove to soap scum in the bathroom sink! The laundry detergent left my clothes smelling super fresh, and since the ingredients are all natural, I don’t worry about my little guys sensitive skin! The wipes did wonders! They easily picked up mess after mess that I threw at it. These all stood up to the jobs I threw at them, but I kind of thought they would. The thing that really impressed me is that it did so with cleansers based from coconut and essential oils. Now that is something impressive! Like I mentioned earlier, I may just have been converted and may be ready to get rid of my other, chemically heavy cleaners! These cleaners are REAL Mom Recommended and with a kiddo running around the house, this is just something that puts my mind at rest! Thanks Green Works!

Clorox Green Works can be found at retailers nationwide!

Audrey

Audrey January 23, 2012 PRODUCT REVIEWS cleaning, eco-friendly, home, kitchen

Healthy and Homemade {Mumi & Bubi solids starter kit review}

When my little munchkin was born… well, even before he was born, I decided I was going to go the homemade baby food route. I remember feeding my little sister (ten years my junior) jarred baby food and thinking how horrible it looked and smelled… I never had the courage to actually taste it! Maybe that’s where the seed was planted, in my 10 yr. old brain! Needless to say, when the time came for my own child, I decided I wanted to make my own. I had a solid starter kit on my baby registry but never received it and never went back to get it. When the time for solids rolled around, I just used ice cube trays or cookie sheets. It worked OK, but I always had to remember to go back within a couple hours and put all the cubes and “piles” in zip-lock freezer bags to they didn’t get freezer burned. The other thing I didn’t like about the cookie trays, and I used them more because I only had a couple ice cube trays, is that I could never tell exactly how much each pile had. I eyeballed it hoped for the best. Too much and it was wasted (and I HATED to waste food I had put effort into!), too little and baby was still hungry, but not hungry enough for another whole pile…. you see the dilemma. Well, I am happy to say that for the next time around, I will be prepared! I recently had the opportunity to check out an awesome solids starter kit from Mumi & Bubi. This thing is a dream come true!

It is a tray that holds 21, so you get 42 with both trays. Each slot holds a 1 oz. portion, perfect for babies from 6 months on up! It has a snug fit locking lid so you can just leave everything in the trays and don’t have to worry about spill, contamination or freezer burn! No transferring from sheet to bag and so forth! The trays stack together, so you can get maximum storage from your freezer space! The trays also have an easy release design. Simply push on one end of the cube and it will slide out the other end! No fighting and twisting involved!

The Solids Starter Kit™ trays have  been especially designed for freezing baby food. They are made in New Zealand from non-toxic, virgin polypropylene – PP5 – and are top-shelf dishwasher-safe. For your peace of mind, the material of the trays are certified free of phthalates, BPA, and PVC.

I can’t wait to try this out with baby number 2! Not only is making your own baby food a nutritionally superior choice, but it also saves lots of $$ too! These would make the perfect gift for a new Mom, or Dad who is ambitious to help in the kitchen! Happy pureeing!! Thanks Mumi & Bubi! This solids starter kit is definitely REAL Mom Recommended and can be purchased online!

Audrey

Audrey December 20, 2011 Holiday 2011, PRODUCT REVIEWS Baby, eco-friendly, kitchen

Rockin’ around the Christmas tree {Phix energy drinks review & giveaway}

OK ladies… there is officially less than one week before Christmas. Christmas baking (and delivering of goodies) done?… check! Christmas shopping done?… (almost!!)… a few last minute things! Christmas wrapping done?… not even started! Cleaning of house before leaving for 3 weeks? Halfway, and it may stay at that point! Packing for 3 weeks done?…not even close! Whew… and those are just the big things! Not to mention just taking care of my family and trying to squeeze in a bit of exercise too! With all that running around, I need some serious energy! You know you’re tired when you wake up at 8:45am and by 10:45am you are ready for a nap! That was me today! I have been going non-stop! Thankfully, I recently had the opportunity to try a new kind of drink that gives you increased energy without the jitters and crash of most energy drinks! It’s called Phix! And let me tell you, it’s totally helped me get through some of those crazy days!

Phix Energy is a sophisticated, natural energy drink mix blending green tea antioxidants, energy-restoring NADH, and yerba maté for enhanced vigor, plus we add vitamins and minerals to keep you feeling healthy.

Our natural energy drinks give you an immediate lift, but unlike other energy drink mix products, there are no spikes, jitters, or crashes. Phix Energy is smooth and sustained energy designed to give you a natural boost day in and day out.

Phix Energy – Drink for Energy and to Your Health

Phix Energy is a healthy, all natural energy drink mix that was designed by a leading naturopathic physician and licensed dietitians to enhance vis medicatrix naturae: the body’s natural healing power. The proprietary blend of herbs and nutraceuticals in Phix is based on therapeutic dosages found to be safe and effective in clinical research trials. Drink Phix for energy and to your health.

Enhanced energy and clarity:

Phix natural energy drink mix contains a small amount (80mg) of caffeine from yerba maté, a traditional drink in many countries. Green tea extract and NADH also have mild stimulant qualities. The result is a gentle and sustained pick-me-up — with no spikes and crashes.

Cellular support and protection:

Phix Energy contains several types of important antioxidants, which can help protect your DNA from oxidative damage.

Immune system support:

Phix’s natural energy ingredients, such as Vitamin C and Eleuthero, are designed to help support healthy immune function.

Blood sugar balance:

Phix natural energy drink contains chromium, which helps to balance blood sugar levels. By balancing out extremes of high and low blood sugar, chromium may also help prevent fatigue.

Muscle fatigue and recovery:

If you’re active, it’s important to replace electrolytes and water-soluble vitamins for optimal athletic performance and recovery. Just add Phix natural energy to water and drink for energy and to your health.

I tried one of these before I hit the gym one day. I didn’t feel the “rush” that I feel if I drink something from a can… (I fondly refer to them as “sleep in a can!”, but I will tell you I powered through my workout that day with extra energy and felt like I was able to push harder than usual! It was really nice having a gentle increase of energy rather than a huge burst where I felt like I was holding on for dear life! I also received the counterpart of Phix Energy…Phix Sleep.

Phix Sleep – All-Natural Sleep Aid Drink

Phix Sleep aid drink formulas are designed by a leading naturopathic physician and licensed dietitians to enhance vis medicatrix naturae: the body’s natural healing power. The proprietary blend of herbs and nutraceuticals in Phix is based on therapeutic dosages found to be safe and effective in clinical research trials.

Gentle relaxation:

Phix natural sleep aid drink contains a unique and effective mixture of nutrients and herbs designed to help you gently drift to sleep. We start with a blend of the best and brightest naturopathic treatments from modern research studies, including lemon balm, sour jujube, and GABA. We then put these in a base of chamomile, an herbal tea that has been used for centuries as a traditional sleep aid drink.

Multiple effects:

Unlike pharmaceutical sleep aids, which work via strong action on a particular brain chemical, Phix natural sleep drink has multiple mechanisms of action. In addition to sedation mediated through neurotransmission, the herbs and nutrients in Phix Sleep help to relax muscles, modulate the stress response, and reset the body’s natural clock.

Not habit-forming:

Medications used as sleep aids can be dangerously habit-forming, and there can be rebound insomnia when the medications are discontinued. Phix sleep aid drinks are specially formulated to be strong enough to be used as needed, but also non-habit-forming, so they can be used every day.

Does not impair motor function:

Most sleep medications impair your ability to perform motor tasks such as driving. Although we suspect that you would rather sleep than drive after a helping of Phix Sleep, the herbs and nutrients used in this product do not impair your dexterity. Also unlike common medication treatments, Phix natural sleep aids do not suppress respiratory function or lead to unexpected behavioral changes.

All natural ingredients:

The ingredients in Phix Sleep are all naturally occurring herbs or nutrients. They were specifically chosen to have a high degree of safety as well as a good track record of efficacy. We specifically avoided any herbal medicines with a high risk of negative interaction with commonly used medications.

I tried these before bed. I woke up the next morning refreshed and ready to face the day. I also remember that it didn’t take me forever to fall asleep that night… something that seems to happen frequently with me because I just can’t stop thinking about everything I need to do the next day!

These are perfect if you are always on the go, or if you need help relaxing at night! They would also make the perfect stocking stuffer!! These drinks are REAL Mom Recommended! Here’s to a good’s night sleep and sailing through the next day!

Phix Energy and Phix Sleep are available online!

Today Phix is generously giving away 2 boxes of Phix Energy variety, containing 12 stix – 4 of each flavor.

Want to win? Here’s how:

Mandatory 1st Entry- Visit Phix 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” Phix on facebook.

2 entries- “Like” RMRV on facebook.

3 entries-Subscribe to RMRV emails.

3 entries-Follow Phix on Twitter.

2 entries- Follow RMRV on Twitter

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

#Enter to win a ?n at @agiveawaydaily

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

3 entries- Add RMRV on Google +

You have until January 2 @ 11:59 PM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open to USA only.

Audrey

Audrey December 19, 2011 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS dad, eco-friendly, giveaway link up, health, mom

So Long, Stinker! {NOse Offense Review}

I have a dog. She is the cutest little thing in the whole world. Max and I hang out every day after work. She loves to go for walks, eat treats, and play with her toys. She is a great little buddy and always so happy.

We got Max from a pet store. There, they started to potty train her by having a litter box in her living area. This was the first time I had ever seen a dog litter box trained. My husband and I both work fill time so after getting Max we decided to continue litter box training her so she could go potty while we were gone for 8 hours. Little dogs have little bladders and we didn’t think she could hold it the whole time we were at work.

As silly as it sounds we love having Max litter box trained. We don’t have to wake up to take her outside in the middle of the night. We don’t have to freeze in the cold so she can go potty in the winter. Max just goes and does her thing when she needs to. BINGO!

The only bummer part is, like cats, unless we keep her litter box clean, you can smell that we have a litter box trained dog. Not always a glamorous smell. We constantly clean it out and a lot of times we have to do it right away.

In 2008, Marvin Rembo, founder of Rembo Corp “discovered a particularly promising solution by utilizing the scientific principle of odor conjugation. He was able to completely neutralize & eliminate the odor without the use of any fragrances.” Thus, NOse Offense For PETS, “Your Fragrance -Free Odor Eliminator For PETS!” was created. “Unlike most air fresheners, NOse Offense For PETS is NOT a masking agent; it doesn’t try to hide your pet’s odors by disguising them or replacing them with another scent.

It neutralizes and eliminates all smells found in the air and also on all water safe fabrics including curtains, carpets, clothing and blankets. NOse Offense can also be used in litter boxes, cages, carriers, pet living and sleeping areas, as well as on hard surfaces, such as wood or plastic.” It is easy to use. Just “spray once or twice in the air or identify the source to spray directly onto/into the affected area.”

You can even spray some on a cloth and wipe down you pet’s coat to take away the stink. Max loves to go play with my mother-in-law’s lab, Marley. Every time she comes home though, she smells like Marley breath…aka bad! We just spray a little on a cloth and give Max a little wipe down. WALAH! Max smells normal again!! We love this product!

The best part is we don’t have to clean the litter box ASAP anymore. After Max goes potty we just spray once and we are good to go. Now we only clean her box at the end of the day. What a time saver! Ideal for a gagging pregnant woman too! Makes it easier for me, plus, I don’t gag on the smell…because there isn’t one!

LOVE IT!!!

NOse Offense can be purchased online in any size between a 2 oz. travel size and a gallon jug!

Stay in touch with NOse Offense on Twitter and Facebook.

This would make the perfect gift for any animal lover!

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

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 December 12, 2011 PRODUCT REVIEWS eco-friendly, home, pets

Lullaby… and goodnight… {Sleepbamboo pillowcases Review}

AHHH…. a good night’s sleep! When you have a baby, how often does that happen? If you are like some of my friends, your baby is an angel and sleeps through the night at 2-3 months…. sadly that was NOT my reality. My little munchkin didn’t start sleeping through the night until about 8-9 months, and then he still sometimes woke up because OF COURSE that is during teething!! Is there ever any rest for the weary? I am happy to say he now (at 12 months) sleeps great through the night… he goes down by nine and sleeps until 8:30 the next day. Unfortunately, Mom here usually stays up way too late catching up on ~~all the important~~ useless things she could do tomorrow instead. I’ve been trying to set a goal of being in bed by 10:30. Well, last night it actually happened! I got hours of uninterrupted sleep! And you know what made it even better?? I spent my night with my head snuggled in my sleepbamboo pillowcases! These are AMAZING!! Let me tell you a little bit about why bamboo is so awesome!

Bamboo textiles are very smooth, bamboo textiles have a natural sheen to the surface and they really do feel like silk textiles or cashmere. Bamboo yarn by nature is much finer than cotton yarn, we use the finest bamboo yarn which gives our product a very Super Light feeling and an incredibly Ultra soft feel,
Our bamboo fabric is 320 thread count construction. (equal to about an1000 thread count fine cotton sheet as bamboo yarn is much finer than cotton yarn) This is ground breaking in the bamboo sheet world and our fabric technicians have worked many years to achieve this.

It doesn’t end with how silkysoft and comfy these pillowcases are either. Bamboo is thermal regulating and also anti-microbial too!

Amazing Thermal Regulating Fabric

Bamboo fabric can adjust to your body temperature. It has millions of micro gaps in the fiber making it one the fasting wicking fabrics available, those millions of micro gaps make our bamboo sheets much more breathable than any fine cotton sheet. So this means you will stay cooler more comfortable in the summer and in the winter bamboo fabrics will warm you up quicker but at the same time because they allow more air between the fabric and your skin, overheating is prevented.

We have had many emails from customers telling us that until trying bamboo bed sheets they would never use a top sheet when they slept because it made them to hot and they would just throw it aside just minutes after getting into bed because of that.
With our bamboo bed sheets you will not want to sleep without a top sheet.
Our fabric drapes your body perfectly like silk would, but it breathes 10-20 times better than any fine silk (silk is one of the worst wicking fabrics)

Bamboo Fabrics are Hypoallergenic & Naturally Antibacterial

We use top quality bamboo yarn that is Oeko-Tex Certified (Standard 100)
Most fabrics that are advertised as anti-microbial have most definitely had much chemical treatment applied to the textile or into the yarn itself. Bamboo fibers are naturally anti-microbial,only 100% bamboo textiles contain an agent called ‘bamboo kunh’ this agent prevents bacteria from cultivating. It is one of the best fibers known to the bedding world for people who suffer from allergies to bed or dust mites.

When cotton sheets heat up they retain much more moisture than bamboo sheets so bacteria is quick to form, tests have shown bed mites can form on our sheets in just hours after lying on them, bamboo will KILL bed mites like nothing else can (actually the sun is the best thing) this leaves your sheets feeling fresh and odor free for much longer than any cotton sheet can. So you will only need to wash your bamboo sheets half as much as you do your cotton sheets.

I have to say I am in love with these pillowcases! I love the beautiful “nougat” color I picked. And they are so silky soft! I have a silk pillowcase and have a hard time feeling any difference between the two! I also love that it is a product that is so sustainable, which makes me feel even better!
Thanks sleepbamboo! Now…. I’m off to go look at their sheets!!

Sleepbamboo pillowcases and sheets are available online.

These pillowcases come REAL Mom Recommended!

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

Audrey

Audrey October 14, 2011 PRODUCT REVIEWS eco-friendly, home

One great bag, so many ways to pack! {Pyknyk London Tote review}

Let me just say…. I am OBSESSED with hand bags!! My husband is always giving me hard time when I come home with a new one… he says…” What about all the other ones in the closet??” I say: I haven’t gotten a new one this season?? Yes… I can and sometimes do reuse my bags… if they aren’t too ” loved out!”, but most of the time I just want something new and exciting!! I tend to get bored easily with one look! To me, a handbag is a true wardrobe accessory that can really complete your look! And that obviously takes more than just one, or two bags to accomplish. Now comes the tricky part. As a new mom, I ABSOLUTELY refused to give in and just get a standard “diaper bag” for all my new essentials. I worked around this conundrum by finding stylish bags/totes that were big enough to fit all my baby stuff in addition to all my personal stuff. Yes, I have had to cut down a little on my personal carryings…no more pharmacy in my purse, just Ibuprofen and Tylenol in one bottle…. but some things can’t be cut down. I still have to have my wallet, keys, phone, water bottle, etc. And of course there are certain baby essentials one MUST carry… diaper/wipes, bottle/sippy cup, snacks, toy(s), books, bink, and maybe a favorite blanket. All of that stuff is in serious need of a special bag!

And that bag is the London tote from Pyknyk! I recently had a chance to try this bag out and boy was I impressed! It was originally designed equally for everyday personal use as also for use as a diaper bag! It has for interior pockets, 2 mesh pockets, a 16″ key fob and a small strap to hold binks. It also has a large back pocket complete with a changing pad! This is how my packing goes if I have my little peanut in tow: Diaper/wipes in one pocket, snacks in another pocket, phone and lip stick bag in other pockets, bottle/sippy cup in mesh pockets, my water bottle, wallet and a couple toys in main chamber. Books and changing pad in back pocket.

NOW… If you don’t have kiddos, or if I was going out alone (although I usually just leave most of the baby stuff in because it’s too much hassle to unpack it all for one trip!), this is how you might pack: 4 pockets might hold: wallet, phone, toiletry items, sanitizing wipes/lotions. Mesh pockets: water bottle/snack bar (just in case your errand runs long!), or possibly an umbrella. Back pocket could hold a magazine, e-reader, electronic tablet, or a good book!

I have to say I was very impressed by the versatility of this bag. Most bags I’ve come across are either specifically geared toward holding baby gear, or are not designed with mothers in mind and offer few pockets and storage possibilities. This bag really does both! It is made from cotton canvas with a cork front panel. Let me tell you a little bit about how awesome this sustainable product is!

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT CORK: Cork is the outer bark of the cork oak tree and is found mainly in Portugal, Spain, southern France, Italy, and North Africa. . The bark can be ‘stripped’ off allowing new bark to grow in its place without killing or damaging the trees. This makes every tree a renewable source of raw material. Cork is harvested from each tree every 9 to 10 years until the tree is approximately 200 years old. The cork oak tree produces off-spring naturally by dropping acorns that seed themselves and eventually mature into productive full grown trees. There is no other material, either man-made or natural, with all the properties and characteristics that are unique to cork. It is water and oil proof, lightweight, resistant to rot, dust, mold, fire and mildew. In addition it is soft to the touch and lots of fun to wear! Cleaning cork is extremely simple – use water and gentle soap to remove marks and dirt stains. So go on, do something good for the Earth today and while you are at it, be the talk of the town!

So there you have it. Whether you are a stylish Mama like me (I “aim” to be stylish , or are a hip chick sans kiddos, you will find that this bag has you covered with whatever you could think of packing around everyday! This will continue to be a staple in my wardrobe!

This tote comes REAL Mom Recommended!

Want more from Pyknyk? Follow them on facebook and twitter!

For a limited time, use coupon code: b3ea68a0 for a 30% discount

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

Audrey

Audrey October 12, 2011 PRODUCT REVIEWS baby gear, eco-friendly, fashion, mom

I’m a big kid now! {Sassybaby Growup cup review & giveaway}

My little monkey just turned one!! We did the whole party complete with his own monkey cake he got to demolish and lots of presents too! Turning one is a huge milestone! Some babies are walking by this age… mine is still cruising, but Boy! can he move! Most are babbling, waving and other such fun things! The house is always a disaster from curious explorers checking out every surface and cupboard. But perhaps one of the greatest milestones of my little guy turning one is that I can FINALLY give him milk to drink! He is kind of a small fry for his age, and so I’ve been waiting for the day when we can add that yummy, whole milk goodness to his diet! And thanks to sassybaby, I have the perfect way to help him enjoy it even more! The Sassy Grow Up Cup!

This cup is pure genious! It is a revolutionary, patent pending, no spout, no spill, 360 degree cup that is designed to let children and babies drink easily from anywhere around the rim! It’s a one step cup that helps build the confidence to transition to an open cup! The grow-up cup is 100% BPA free and has a silicone valve for spill free drinking. There are also removeable handles available on allow for even easier holding! It comes in a 7, 9, and 12 oz size! It’s very easy to use too! You simply unscrew the inside “lid”, fill, and rescrew lid on! The liquid comes out from between the silicone valve and edge of the cup. It takes a little getting used to, but they get the hang of it, your little ones will be sipping independantly and be so proud of themselves! ( My little guy is still getting the hang of it, but I tried it myself it works great!)

The Sassy Grow Up cup is available exclusively at Babies R us in stores and online! If you want more information and want to see a vidoe on the Grow Up cup, visit Sassybaby.com!

This cup is REAL Mom Recommended!

Today Sassy Baby is generously giving away a two pack of 9 oz

grow up cups to 2 winners!!

Want to win? Here’s how:

Mandatory 1st Entry- Visit Sassy baby 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”Sassy Baby on facebook. Feel free to leave a post for other readers!!

2 entries- “Like” RMRV on facebook.

3 entries-Subscribe to RMRV emails.

3 entries-Follow Sassy Baby on Twitter.

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

#Enter to win a Sassy baby Grow Up Cup at @agiveawaydaily

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

You have until October 24th @ 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 October 10, 2011 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS Baby, baby gear, children, eco-friendly, food, kitchen

Cozy legs, fuzzy feet {Baby Undersocks review and giveaway)

The nights are getting cooler. Fall is definitely making it’s arrival known. The leaves haven’t started changing, but I know any morning I’m going to wake up and see that Jake Frost has gotten out his paint brush. There are so many great things to love about fall and cooler weather. I love being able to layer up with jackets and sweaters. And I love getting into my warm comfy sweats at night and cozy socks.

One thing I learned about last year when my son was a newborn is that it’s nearly darn impossible to keep socks on a baby’s feet. He was born in October, so we spent the first six months in socks. I tried getting socks that were a little bigger, but they just slipped off. The ones that were the right size just worked their way down. The only solution I could find was to pull his socks OVER his pants, and it worked, but he looked like he was wearing sock boots! Now that was fine for a new born, where we pretty much wore comfy cotton pants everyday, but now that he is almost one and wears REAL pants… at least he will be once it cools down a little more, I don’t think the whole sock over jeans thing is going to work! This is where I found the most amazing solution! Baby Undersocks!! This ingenious creation is part sock, part thermal underwear. The ingenious mother who came up with this great idea was sick of her baby’s socks always falling off and the part of the leg that is exposed always getting cold. Enter the Baby Undersock. You simply pull them on underneath your baby’s clothing and Viola! You have a great pair of no skid socks that stay up! AND!… There is another light layer underneath to keep your baby warm. Perfect for going into fall and winter! I’m already excited for when we have to go outside and I don’t want his legs to get cold! Where I live, it gets pretty cold in the winter, so layers are a MUST for baby! Finally! A pair of baby socks that stay on!

The othergreat thing about these are how they are made! They are made of thermal bamboo, which is very smooth and soft against a baby’s sensitive skin, highly breathable, moisture wicking and antibacterial. It’s also a temperature regulator, so baby won’t get cold nor too warm! Not to mention bamboo is also very eco-friendly, as it is one of the most sustainable crops on earth.

I am so excited to use these winter baby socks this upcoming season! Where ever the season takes us, we will be warm and cozy! Thanks Baby Undersocks!

Real Mom Recomended!

Baby Undersocks can be found online. For Real Mom readers, they are offering a 25%. Use code: REAL25

Today Baby Undersocks is generously giving away a free pair of

baby undersocks, any color/size!

Want to win? Here’s how:

Mandatory 1st Entry- Visit Baby Undersocks 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” Baby Undersocks on facebook.

2 entries- “Like” RMRV on facebook.

3 entries-Subscribe to RMRV emails.

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

#Enter to win a pair of baby undersocks at @agiveawaydaily

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

You have until October 10th @ 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 September 26, 2011 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS Baby, baby clothing, baby gear, eco-friendly

Minerals On a Mission {Mineral Fusion Giveaway}

Who knew that there was such a thing as “natural cosmetics?” I am sure some of you did, but in all honesty, I had no clue!

“Mineral Fusion is now the leading natural cosmetic brand proudly offering cosmetics that instantly improve your complexion while nourishing the skin, all while being appropriate for even the most sensitive skin types. A range of shampoos, conditioners, body lotions, body washes and a full skin care line are our latest innovations - each delivering the uniquely beneficial power of minerals to the skin. All of our products are made in the USA and many of them are still handmade. All of our products are free of gluten, parabens, SLS, phthalates, artificial colors and synthetic fragrances. All of our products are 100% Vegetarian, and most are even 100% Vegan.” I think that is absolutely amazing that there are quality products like this out there. We are so used to running down to the store, grabbing the name brand that we are used to using and slapping it on our face, not having any idea what is in it or if it is really going to help. Mineral Fusion products are the opposite. A few of us tried a few different products and here’s what we thought:

I have to admit that I don’t wear much makeup. With two kids, a dog, a husband, and a house to take care of, I am lucky if I find an hour in the day to just shower and brush my hair. I recently had the opportunity to try out Mineral Fusion makeup. I choose a sheer tint base, eyeshadow trio in fragile, and concealer. I was excited when they arrived as I knew I would have the chance to look pretty again! They even threw in a few application brushes with my make up. Once they arrived I immediately tried incorporating them into my daily routine. I started with the concealer. I applied it lightly under my eyes to help get rid of those dark circles. If you are a mom then you know just what I am talking about. I proceeded with my sheer tint base. I applied it all over my face and found it very light. I then did up my eyes with two colors from my eyeshadow trio. Again easy to apply and it made my eyes pop out. I finished off my face with a light bronzer and some mascara of my own and I was done! I looked great. I am excited to use my Mineral Fusion makeup as a part of my everyday mom routine.

As a mother, it is always hard to get in any type of “me time”. Whether you are working outside the home or staying home with your children, most of your day is spent making sure other’s needs are met and taking care of your family. I make sure to work in at least 10 to 15 minutes of “me time” each day when I take my shower at night, after the kids are in bed. This time gives me a bit of peace and quiet and usually a much needed moment to think and relax without any interruptions. It is also a time to treat myself to pretty shampoos, great smelling scrubs, and nice music. Mineral Fusion generously sent me their Fortifying Shampoo and Conditioner, and I must say, it has been a fantastic addition to my “me time” each night! The Mineral Fusion Fortifying Shampoo and Conditioner is gluten free, and contains many vitamins and minerals specially chosen to protect and maintain your hair. It smells amazing, and leaves my hair feeling clean, soft, and super silky. When I use it, I know I am taking care of my hair and keeping it healthy. Mineral Fusion offers several different types of shampoo and conditioners, each containing a unique mineral blend to revitalize, strengthen and maintain healthy hair. You are sure to find the perfect shampoo and conditioner for your individual hair needs and your hair will thank you!

I was so very lucky to receive skin cleansing productsincluding, Purifying Gel Facial Cleanser, Skin Balancing Facial Moisturizer, and Brush On Sun Defence. I kept my cleaner in the shower because every morning when I would wash with it, it gave me the “spa” feeling. It was super lathery and smelled wonderful! It got my face clean and removed all the yucky left over make up that lingered around my eyes.

Speaking of eyes, I never had that harsh burning if you get a smidge in your eyes. Loved it! As for the moisturizer, it was the perfect addition to the the wonderful cleanser. They had similar scents, so the spa continued. I had put some on one morning when I was with my sister and she even commented on how good I was smelling for so early in the morning

Last but not least, the SPF-30 Brush-On Sun Defence is wonderful. It is just a brush full of powder that incredibly convenient to apply. It goes on like powder so it can go over or under make up. I went to the Dermatologist today and he went on and on about how important sun screen was. That makes this an essential part of the makeup routine. I was in love with all three products that I

received and my face is healthier and happier for using them!

Are you ready to go Natural?!

Cuz we want you to win $100 worth of Mineral Fusion’s Top Selling Products! Here is how you can enter to win:

Visit Mineral Fusion and come back and tell us what product you would like to add to your daily routineOnce the mandatory entries are completed you can gain additional entries from the following:

2 entries-”Like” RMRV on facebook

2 entries-Follow Mineral Fusion on Twitter.

2 entries-’Like’ Mineral Fusion on Facebook.

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

#WIN a $100 worth of Mineral Fusion Products @agiveawaydaily

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

5 Entries-Subscribe to RMRV emails or RSS feed.

{You have until September 28th @ 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.

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 14, 2011 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS beauty, eco-friendly, make up, mom, skin care

RECOMMENDED

SEARCH BY TOPIC

something wonderful at work

ingredients for success

putting the “green” in Green Works®

Phix Energy – Drink for Energy and to Your Health

Enhanced energy and clarity:

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Blood sugar balance:

Muscle fatigue and recovery:

Phix Sleep – All-Natural Sleep Aid Drink

Gentle relaxation:

Multiple effects:

Not habit-forming:

Does not impair motor function:

All natural ingredients:

Today Phix is generously giving away 2 boxes of Phix Energy variety, containing 12 stix – 4 of each flavor.

Want to win? Here’s how:

These pillowcases come REAL Mom Recommended!

For a limited time, use coupon code: b3ea68a0 for a 30% discount

This cup is REAL Mom Recommended!

Today Sassy Baby is generously giving away a two pack of 9 oz

grow up cups to 2 winners!!

Want to win? Here’s how:

Real Mom Recomended!

Today Baby Undersocks is generously giving away a free pair of

baby undersocks, any color/size!

Want to win? Here’s how:

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

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