Product Review: 'Become' More Beautiful

This is the next installment to help you "Beat the Winter Beauty Blues."

Goodies for Mom received a sample of Face Smoothing Gel from Become to try. I am the worst about treating my skin well so I need something REALLY easy to use that has big results and Face Smoothing Gel fits the bill. Just wet your face, rub on the gentle exfoliator on your face and rinse it off. I put it on then jump in the shower to rinse it off. It rinses off so easily, no residue like many scrubs. The Jojoba Beads gently polish rather than scratch. A little big goes a long way.

I immediately noticed the difference. My face felt smoother and softer after just one use. I love this gel and for $29 you cannot go wrong for a beauty product of this quality.

Note to self and others with sensitive skin: Do not wax, then use it. I broke out in hives everywhere I waxed. My husband yelled at me and said now that was not the brightest thing you've ever done. OK so he was right. (shh, don't tell him I admitted it.) So in effort to save you the embarrassment, I'm warning you so you don't end up like me slathering hydrocortizone creme on your face to go out the door. LOL! It was fine every other time I used it so it was definitely the waxing that caused it.

[Visit Become now.]

Giveaway: Valentines Day Skirt/Purse from Little Petunia Designs

As part of the Bloggy Giveaways Carnival, Goodies for Mom is hosting a last minute giveaway from Little Petunia Designs.

What You Can Win

Valentines Day Skirt and Purse Set
A Little Petunia Designs original. This adorable skirt is made out of 100% Cotton that is pre-shrunk. All seams are professionally finished and feature an elastic waistband. The coordinating purse is made out of the same fabric and has an optional magnetic closure.

About Little Petunia Designs
Kristen Davis is the owner and designer of this chic new clothing line. Her newly launched mom-owned business is born out of her passion for creating clothes for her own children. It combines her love of sewing with her desire to work at home to be closer to her children.

How to Win
Just leave us a comment on this post before midnight EST on February 1, 2009. Open to US Only.

Extra Chances to Win
1.) Visiting Little Petunia Designs and leave her a comment encouraging her in her new business venture 2.) Blogging about this giveaway 3.) Twitting about the giveaway (Leave a separate comment here also for each extra entry.)

[Visit Little Petunia Designs now.]

Visit the Goodies for Mom CPSIA Protest Giveaway for more great items being given away this week. Also, make sure to stop over to the Bloggy Giveaways Carnival for lots more chances to win!!!

Lead Exposure Recalls (CPSIA)

Add three more recalls this week for products due to increased risk of lead exposure that were manufactured in China. The recalls include:

• Lip Gloss Keychains Recalled By Markwins Beauty Products Due to Risk of Lead Exposure
• High School Musical Manicure Kits Recalled by Fantas-Eyes Due to Risk of Lead Exposure
• Discount School Supply Recalls Jesus Fish Beads Due to Violation of Lead Paint

Unfortunately, these are further examples of why the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 is needed in some form and again emphasize the need to mandate products brought into the US, especially from China. The shame is that the government is "throwing the baby (products) away with the bath water," and many small business in the US making safe products free of lead are getting caught in the crossfire. It is also a shame that the already understaffed Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is spending innumerable hours answering calls and letters, hearing testimony, and wading through mountains of paperwork, while they could be overseeing that more of these unsafe products are stopped before harming our children. Both of these unfortunate consequences because of a law that was not well thought out.

We at Goodies for Mom hope that a solution is found quickly that will allow for all of these wonderful small businesses to stay in business and create the fabulous, safe children's items that we often feature here, while keeping our children safe.

[Read more about CPSIA and enter our CPSIA Protest Giveaway.

Octuplets Born to CA Mom

On January 26, 2009 for only the second time in recorded American history, a woman gave birth to live octuplets. The unidentified woman gave birth at Kaiser Permanente Bellflower Medical Center in southern California. Originally thinking there were "only" seven babies, they all received a surprise when baby #8 made its entrance into the world. The plan is for the two girls and six boys to remain in the hospital for about another two months due to their premature birth. If all babies leave the hospital, as doctors are expecting, this will be a record because the only other birth of live octuplets resulted in the smallest, unfortunately, dieing a week after birth, and never leaving the hospital.

It is reported she plans to breastfeed them. Although it is reported that a mother's milk supply increases with demand, it is questionable as to where physically she can do it and if there are enough hours in the day to actually accomplish all those feedings. A representative of Lansinoh Laboratories says they are planning to plans to send the mother a double electric breast pump and a year’s supply of freezer storage bags and bottles.

Goodies for Mom, sends congratulations and wishes the new family the best!

Source: NY Times and NY Times Parenting Blog

BPA May Stay In System Longer Than Thought

Bisphenol A (BPA) is used in many food and beverage containers, the coating of food cans and some medical devices. People consume it when it leaches from plastic into baby formula, water or food in a container. It is reported to mimic the hormone estrogen in the body, and may have harmful effects on the development of the prostate and brain, and induce behavioral changes in fetuses, infants and children.

In the past, the belief had been that BPA was quickly and entirely eliminated from the body through urine. However, a University of Rochester studied evaluated levels of the chemical in the urine of 1,469 adults. The findings of the study suggested that BPA may remain in the body longer than previously thought or it may get into the body through sources other than just food.

"If it leaves the body quickly, then it reduces the amount of time when it can cause problems. If it does cause problems, obviously if it stays around much longer, then that changes the game," Dr. Stahlhut of the University of Rochester.

[Read more]

Source: Reuters

Win a Free Ride to BlogHer ’09 from Mabel’s Labels

I just go an e-mail today from the wonderful folks at Mabel's Labels. They are running the most fabulous contest for bloggers.

Mabel’s Labels is searching for a blogger to send to BlogHer ’09. The grand prize winner will receive a trip to BogHer’s Annual Conference in Chicago, IL from July 24-25, 2009. The winning blogger will be featured as the event’s chief correspondent on the Mabel’s Labels blog. Ok, gets even better, the grand prize includes flight, two-day conference pass and two nights paid at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel and Towers.

HOW TO ENTER
Just write a post answering the following question:

1. What have been the rewards and benefits of participating in the blogging community? (minimum 250 words)
2. Link the post back to http://www.blogcontest.mabel.ca/,
3. Tag the post as Mabel’s Labels BlogHer ’09 Contest, and
4. Finally e-mail blogcontest@mabel.ca the link to your post!

Deadline to Enter: 12:00pm EST Monday February 9, 2009

HERE IS MY ENTRY
[Of course, who would not what to win this fabulous trip?!?!? Hmm, who do I need to beg, plead with, and/or bribe to pick me? ;) How about leaving me some comments pleading my case? PLEASE!!!!]

The biggest benefit I have found from blogging has been the incredible connections I have made with the other wonderful entrepreneurs, woman, and mothers that are part of the blogging family. I have had the opportunity to learn about products, businesses, and people I would never have known if it were not for blogging.

In addition, I have been given the unique privilege of trying more new products in the last year than I have in my entire life. I LOVE checking my mailbox each week to see if anything new has arrived to review. It is so exciting to share my new finds with my readers as if I were sharing it with my best friends over lunch. Oh wait, after I blog about it I do tell all my friends about the stuff over lunch also!

However, the very best part of blogging is the opportunity to be able to offer giveaways to my readers. It is so fun to read the excitement in the response e-mails that I get from the winners, and later to hear from them after they receive their prizes telling me how much they love them. Then there are the e-mails I get from the sponsoring vendors with the excitement they get out of reading the comments that people leave about their products after the readers have visited their site. It is a win-win-win situation. The business wins because they receive publicity and lots of traffic for their company for little to no cost, the prize winner gets a great prize for the small fee of a site visit and comment, and I get to be the one to be able to bring the two together. I think that makes me the biggest winner of all!

Giveaway: Beating the Winter Beauty Blues Gift Pack

As part of the Bloggy Giveaways Carnival, Goodies for Mom is hosting a "Beating the Winter Beauty Blues Gift Pack Giveaway". The gift pack includes some of the great products I have had the opportunity to try recently:

• Mimiccolor Cosmetic Hail Color Touch-up
  MIMICCOLOR is a temporary root touch-up designed to extend the life of permanent hair color . Perfect for all facial areas including hairline and roots, eyebrows, beards and mustaches. MIMICCOLOR will never melt off due to perspiration, and easily washes out with a shampoo. I was skeptical of this, but I tried it and really does cover gray very well. It's like cover-up for your hair! The creme goes on with a brush in minutes and it doesn't rub off like I was worried. Ok, I have to admit I'm a little behind on coloring so I might have be there all day with my root grow if I used it every day but it worked great on small patches and gray and I would definitely use it for special occasions or when my roots and gray is not quite so widespread. It really is for touch-up only.



• SoftBaby and SoftHands Sample Sizes from Softress^TM
  Softress is a New York City-based company dedicated to producing safe natural products for the care of dry, sensitive skin and dry hair. I tried the Deep Moisture - Winter Formula for Skin and Hair. I particularly liked it on my frizzy mop of curly hair. I put a few squirts on after my shower and combed it through. It left my hair smooth and frizz free. I didn't even have to use it every day. I did it once and my hair felt great for several days. Coupon Code: "GOODIES" gets you a 15% discount through the end of april 2009.



• Sharon Bolton Perfume Oil - LUV
  Sharon Bolton has incorporated soft exotic florals, sparkling citrus, and a tropical flare into her hand-blended perfume oils. LUV is combination of rare pink gardenia, lush Hawaiian white flowers, and a hint of creamy vanilla with a delicate whisper of white musk. All the scents I tried were extremely light and very pleasant. Just inhaling the scent was relaxing, and I was reminded of a beautiful Hawaiian sunset. Even the packaging is beautiful and peaceful.



• Sample sizes of All The Better To Kiss You With Organic Lip Balm and TRESemme® Hair Spray, and a Sleep Mask
  The products are part of the Minimus.biz's The New Pampered Mommy gift kit. Minimus.biz is the leader in all things travel-sized and individual sized. They carry over 2,000 products in stock including more than 100 pre-packaged kits and gift sets. The The New Pampered Mommy and Au Naturale Mom-to-be kits would be great gifts for any new mom and are perfect for packing in your hospital bag. Everything from toothpaste to shampoo to lip balm, these great kits have a little bit of everything you'll need. They offer our readers an exclusive coupon code for 5% off of each kit. COUPON CODES: 5% off of the New Pampered Mommy is "GOODIESFORMOMPAMPERED" and 5% off of the Au Naturale kit is "GOODIESFORMOMAUNATURALE". Coupons expire on 3/15/09.
  
  
• Peacekeeper LipPaint and LipGloss
  PeaceKeeper Cause-Metics is the first cosmetic line to give all of its after tax distributable profits to Women's Health Advocacy and Human Rights issues. PeaceKeeper’s Lip Paints were nominated as finalist for “Best Lip Product of the Year” by Cosmetics Executive Woman (CEW). These lip paint was so incredibly smooth to apply and felt great on. Plus it's 75% organic. I also love their natural nail polish remover. The PeaceKeeper® Eco-Easy™ Nail Polish Remover is made from natural fermented sugars and scented with rosemary and spearmint. It so gentle on your nails. None of those harsh chemicals.
  
  
• Belli Acne Clearing Facial Wash
  This is a safe acne solution for use during pregnancy. The Belli Acne Clearing Facial Wash uses lactic acid to lift away dirt, oil and bacteria, promoting clean and blemish-free skin. Belli's baby lotion and washes are so gentle. They have a light fresh scent that any mother will love to smell as she cuddles her little one. It's very subtle but clean-smelling. They offer a great gift set that would make a wonderful shower gift.

HOW TO WIN
Just leave us a comment on this post before midnight EST on January 31, 2009.

Extra Chances to Win
1.) Visiting the giveaway sponsors and leave a comment here with your favorite product on their site (one chance per sponsor) 2.) Blogging about this giveaway 3.) Twitting about the giveaway (Leave a separate comment for each extra entry.

Watch for more reviews and articles this week as part of our "Beating the Winter Beauty Blues" series.

Visit the Goodies for Mom CPSIA Protest Giveaway for more great items being given away this week.

Also, make sure to stop over to the Bloggy Giveaways Carnival for lots more chances to win!!!

Bloggy Giveaways: CPSIA Protest Giveaway

As part of the Bloggy Giveaways Carnival, Goodies for Mom is hosting a Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) Protest Giveaway of the wonderful baby products below.

For those of you who may not be aware, congress passed a law last August called the "Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act," and the first phase goes into effect on February 10. The goal of this act is very noble: to provide safe toys and products to children under 12.

So what is the problem, right? Who does not want our children to be safe? Why the protest? Well, the problem is that this law mandates expensive testing for lead on batches of each individual component of products and puts the legal liability on the US manufacturer, importer, handcrafter, and small business. This is a problem because small businesses and handcrafters have very small batches of items and very low profit margins. Some products would cost thousands of dollars to test because of their complexity. It is also requiring retesting of components already tested at the supplier level. In addition, it is requiring testing of organic or natural items and all fabric, all of which have a low chance of containing lead.

This testing requirement is causing many small businesses and handcrafters to eliminate products, sell off inventory at a large loss, dispose of unsold inventory that will end up in landfills, and many more to close their businesses. These businesses are a vital part of our economy and help to put food on tables and roofs over the heads of thousands of small business owners. Adding to this already desperate situation for many is that the law is written so ambiguously that many are still confused if their products are included, what is required exactly of them and what is their liability come February 10. The law also leaves much of the interpretation up to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), an already overburdened, understaffed agency, and who has been very slow to respond to the situation.

Why was this law needed? Unfortunately it was needed because according to the CPSC website between 2006 and 2009, slightly more than 200 products were recalled due to dangerous levels of lead in them. Let us look at these statistics a little closer. Of those recalls, 184 were from China. Guess how many were from products manufactured in the United States? ZERO!! What about recalls on products using dyed or printed fabric? Only one, which was a vinyl screen printed product, and again produced in China. Yes, expensive testing is being forced upon US manufacturers who appear to have done nothing wrong.

How does this affect you? Many innovative children's products will be eliminated, product lines will be drastically cut, boutiques will close, prices will rise, and handcrafted items will no longer be produced for you to purchase.

Here are just a couple quotes from businesses in regards to this new legislation:

"The moms who are behind the products offered on Mom 4 Life are ambitious, hardworking, driven and creative. They have invented or crafted quality products that solve real needs. Unfortunately, the more creative the product is, the less likely that we will be able to continue selling it...Protecting our children and supporting our mom inventors should not be an oxymoron." Heather Ledeboer, Owner of Mom 4 Life

"I have been thrilled to take the leap into doing my business full time. Recently I was awarded a Grant through the Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center to help me grow my business. Basically all signs are pointing towards taking my business to the next level, but if I can't produce & sell the line of baby & toddler clothes I've been working on, this business as I know it will have to shut down." Willo O'Brien, Owner/Designer, WilloToons

"At the moment I am doing whatever I can to stay open, and if I can manage to do that I will have to eliminate many items from my line and possibly raise prices." Kim Evans, Girl Party Tutu's

"Babycapes was determined to produce our garment in the United States, putting Americans to work, despite the fact that it was close to three times more expensive than had we gone overseas to China or India. If the law goes into effect as it stands, we will either be forced to increase our prices, limit the number of choices, move production from the U.S. to overseas, or close our business entirely." Suzi Crowder, Babycapes

Update: CPSC Grants One Year Stay of Testing and Certification Requirements for Certain Products
__________________________________

HOW TO WIN
Just leave us a comment on this post before midnight EST on January 31, 2009. (Open to US Only)

Extra Chances to Win
1.) Visiting the giveaway sponsors and leave a comment here with your favorite product on their site (one chance per sponsor) 2.) Blogging about this giveaway and/or the CPSIA and its effect on many mom-owned businesses 3.) Twitting about the giveaway or CPSIA (Leave a comment for each up to 5 extra entries.)

All the items included in this giveaway will be impacted by the CPSIA:

• Tagless Flawless Infant Gift Set from Happy Panda
  The entire set is tagless and made in America of 100% soft combed cotton baby rib fabric. Our hats have an adjustable top knot and the bib features a Velcro closure. The lap t design on the gown makes it easy to get on and off your Happy Panda. (Testing for this $35 item will be $1350.00.) [Read more]


• Probreastfeeding Infant Onsie from Cushie Pushie Company
  Babies love creepin', crawlin' and sleepin' in our super comfy, 100% cotton jersey knit Infant Creeper. Infant clothes shouldn't be hard to change, so our three-snap bottom helps ease those nasty diaper changes. Great baby stuff for your special little one. (These are printed on a custom basis from CafePress, so testing would be thousands for each individual piece printed so these will be no longer produced unless the law changes.)
  
• Babycapes Outerwear for Little Ones
  Bulky coats and blankets can impede the effectiveness of your child's car seat harness. Keep your child snug, comfortable, warm, and most importantly, safe with Babycapes, Innovative Outerwear for Little Ones! Babycapes unique, patents-pending back opening allows you to transition baby from the house to car to stroller or front carrier without unbundling. Because it goes on over the harness straps, Babycapes does not interfere with the effectiveness of the restraints in any way. (Babycapes will either be forced to increase prices, limit the number of choices, move production from the U.S. to overseas, or close business entirely.) [Read more on their blog]
• Cushie Pushie Breast Support Pillow for Nursing Moms
  The Cushie Pushie Breastfeeding Pillow is made for breastfeeding mothers by a mother. It is a pillow designed to help you gain the correct breast position for easier breastfeeding. This breastfeeding pillow pushes your breast upward in order to allow easy latching by your nursing baby, while maintaining correct positioning throughout the feeding. (Still unsure the impact because it is actual made for moms but it could be classified as "facilititates feeding" due to the many ambiguous wordings in the law. This would then include nursing bras, nursing tops, breastfeeding pillows, and more.Testing is way too cost prohibitive so we would close if something is not changed from current status.)
• Tie Onesies by My HodgePodgerie (new addition)
  (courtesy of Mom 4 Life)
  These are Carters 100% cotton super soft onesies with My HodgePodgerie's tie applique fused onto the onesie and then machine stitched for added durability. (Created by a small mom-owned business that creates small quantities of lots of different items, hence the name of the company.)
• octohug (embroidered) onesie from WilloToons (18-24 mos.) Sometimes you have to give yourself a big hug! And sometimes you’ll find it impossible to resist giving your cutie pie a big squeeze or eight when they’re wearing this adorable onesie. WilloToons is the creative venture of well-known designer, illustrator and music lover Willo O’Brien. (As mentioned above, there is a good chance Willo will have to stop producing her baby line.)

Here are some other great blogs hosting CPSIA giveaways, so stop by and support them too:

• Penguin Puppet Set from Kid-N Around Creations [My Charmed Life] (Ends 1/31)
• Gift Set from Just Add Charm [My Charmed Life] (Ends 1/31)
• Eli's Lids [Penny Pinching Diva] (Ends 1/31)
• Child Locators [Growing Up Fast] (Ends 2/2)
• Gown and Bib Set [Happy Panda] (Ends 2/1)
• Whimsical Walney Giveaway [Busy Mom] (Ends 2/4)
• Custom Clips [Lady Bug Limited] (1/30)

If you have a product affected by the CPSIA and you'd like to help by joining our giveaway or you are hosting a CPSIA giveaway on your blog, e-mail me at lois(@)goodiesformom(dot)com to be included.

Visit our Beating the Winter Beauty Blues Gift Pack giveaway too!

Make sure to stop over to the Bloggy Giveaways Carnival for lots more chances to win!!!

Gwen Stefani “Rolls” With A Bugaboo

Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale push their new baby, Zuma with the little marc jacobs Bugaboo stroller the other weekend. The family is out for a stroll with a premier stroller. It is one of only 15 worldwide.

If you are a parent who likes to be on the go and meet other like-minded parents Bugaboo has also created "Bugaboo Friends.” Here parents and friends can share stories, tips for traveling (with or without kids), videos, and experiences with people all over the world. You can check out “Bugaboo Friends” at: www.bugaboo.com and click on “Friends”

About Bubaboo
Bugaboo was founded in 1999 combining design and functionality to create innovative products for parents on the move. Bugaboo redefined the stroller category with its lightweight, user-friendly, modular infant-to-toddler travel system and has won numerous international awards. They have built a reputation worldwide for innovation, design and utility. The company continues to develop and design products for the active lifestyles of modern parents.

Visit bugaboo.com for more information.

StrideRite Coupon: $5 off Pair of Natural Motion SystemTM Shoes

Get a coupon for $5.00 off a Pair of Natural Motion System^TM Shoes from StrideRite by clicking here.

While at their you can sign up to receive e-mail updates and coupons.

[Get $5.00 Off Coupon]

Mommy Pak and Dancing Dangerously Winners

The latest winners in our Goodies for Mom's contests are:

A Year of Dancing Dangerously:

• Commenter - #30 janetfaye

Product Review/Giveaway Pak from MomSelect

• Commenter - #14 Sonya

Don't forget to stop and visit the great sponsors of this giveaway:

Lydia's Dancing Dangerously site
Build-A-Bear
Mobistories.com
Lango
HP PhotoSmart Express Station
Newbaby.com
All Clear

Friday Mommy Blogger Giveaway Roundup

Wow, we got so many this week that I'm adding a Friday edition of our giveaway roundup!!!

Blog/Host : A Bookworm(Mom)'s Diary
Prize : A pair of Smiley Soles shoes from Shooshoos
Link : http://abookwormsdiary.blogspot.com/2009/01/shooshoos-review-and-giveaway.html
Enter by : Midnight CST of January 26, 2009.
Eligibility : US & Canada
____________________________

Blog Host: Thatblogplace.com
Prize: 10 free custom blog headers matching any of our previous designs.
Deadline: 02/01/09
Link: http://that-blog-place.blogspot.com/2009/01/grand-opening-give-away.html
Eligibility: Open to any who have a blog
How to Enter: To enter leave a comment on our blog
_____________________________

Host Blog: Chefdruck Reviews
Prize: Baby Skincare Basket from the Body Shop worth $85
Link: http://chefdruckreviews.blogspot.com/2009/01/body-shop-baby-skincare-kit-giveaway.html
Enter by: 1/31

Host Blog: Chefdruck Musings
Prize: $50 Tiny Prints Gift Certificate
Link: http://chefdruck.blogspot.com/2009/01/tiny-prints-valentines-giveaway.html
Enter by: 1/31

Host Blog: Chefdruck Reviews
Prize: Transformers DS Game
Link: http://chefdruckreviews.blogspot.com/2009/01/transformers-animated-ds-game-giveaway.html
Enter by: 1/24

Host Blog: Chefdruck Musings
Prize: Tony Hawks Motion DS Game
Link: http://chefdruck.blogspot.com/2009/01/tony-hawks-motion-ds-game-giveaway.html
Enter by: 1/24
__________________________

Blog: An Island Review
Prize: Beautify Your Heart Prize Pack
Deadline: Jan 30th/
Eligibility: US
URL: http://islandlife808.com/islandreview/reviewes-giveaways/beautify-your-heart/

Blog: An Island Review
Prize: Parenting Is Your Highest Calling
Deadline: Jan 28
Eligibility: All
URL: http://islandlife808.com/islandreview/electronics/parenting-is-your-highest-calling-and-8-other-myths-that-trap-us-in-worry-and-guilt/

Blog: An Island Life
Prize: Bug Pod from Boon Inc
Deadline: Jan 27
Eligibility: US
URL: http://islandlife808.com/giveaways/boon-inc/

Blog: An Island Review
Prize: Journal Buddies
Deadline: Jan 24th
Eligibility: US
URL: http://islandlife808.com/islandreview/giveaways/journal-buddies/

Blog: An Island Life
Prize: Photo Art by Phokki
Deadline: Jan 24th
Eligibility: US
URL: http://islandlife808.com/giveaways/turn-your-photos-into-works-of-art-with-phokki/

Blog: An Island Review
Prize: Coco Bonbons Kids Outfits
Deadline: Jan 24th
Eligibility: US
URL: http://islandlife808.com/islandreview/giveaways/childrens-clothing-by-coco-bonbons/
________________________

Name of blog: Everything Up Close
Number of winners: 1
Sponsor: Kathryn Cole Jewelry (etsy)
Prize: One winner will receive a Large Daisy necklace from Kathryn Cole Jewelry.
Link: http://everythingupclose.blogspot.com/2009/01/kathryn-cole-jewelry-review-giveaway.html
Restrictions: Worldwide entries accepted.
End Date: January 30, 2009

Name of blog: Everything Up Close
Number of winners: 1
Sponsor: Eve Organics
Prize: One winner will receive one mineral foundation and one mineral blush in their choice of shade from Eve Organics.
Link: http://everythingupclose.blogspot.com/2009/01/eve-organics-review-giveaway.html
Restrictions: Canada and the US only.
End Date: February 1, 2009

Name of blog: Everything Up Close
Number of winners: 1
Sponsor: Mette Vangso
Prize: One winner will receive any item of their choice from Mette Vangso (based upon availability).
Link: http://everythingupclose.blogspot.com/2009/01/mette-vangso-neck-hugger-review.html
Restrictions: US entries only.
End Date: February 11, 2009

Wednesday Mommy Blog Giveaway Roundup

Name of blog: SAHM Reviews
Prize: Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion plus SPF
Sponsor: Skin MD Natural
How to Enter: Leave a comment. Bonus entries available.
Deadline: January 30th
Open to Us Only
________________________

Name of blog: Everything Up Close
Number of winners: 1
Sponsor: WarmMe® Warm Mouse
Prize: One winner will receive a WarmMe® Warm Mouse.
Link: http://everythingupclose.blogspot.com/2009/01/warmme-warm-mouse-review-giveaway.html
Restrictions: Worldwide entries accepted.
End Date: January 24, 2009

Name of blog: Everything Up Close
Number of winners: 1
Sponsor: The Little Travelers
Prize: One winner will receive one DVD of their choice from the Little Travelers' Series.
Link: http://everythingupclose.blogspot.com/2009/01/little-travelers-review-giveaway.html
Restrictions: Worldwide entries accepted.
End Date: February 1, 2009
_________________________

Blog: Sandier Pastures
Prize: Birthstone bracelet by Sweet Caroline's
Deadline: Jan 20
PERMALINK: http://www.sandierpastures.com/giveaway/giveaway-sweet-carolines.html

Monday Mommy Blog Giveaway Roundup

Name of blog: Everything Up Close
Number of winners: 1
Sponsor: Kolobags
Prize: One winner will receive a Ful Brickhouse Sling Laptop Backpack.
Link: http://everythingupclose.blogspot.com/2009/01/kolobags-giveaway.html
Restrictions: US only.
End Date: January 23, 2009

Name of blog: Everything Up Close
Number of winners: 1
Sponsor: Tiny Prints
Prize: One winner will receive a $50 gift certificate for Tiny Prints.
Link: http://everythingupclose.blogspot.com/2009/01/tiny-prints-valentines-day-giveaway.html
Restrictions: Worldwide entries accepted.
End Date: January 30, 2009
_______________________________________

Name of blog: SAHM Reviews
Prize: Vaseline Clinical Therapy Lotion
Sponsor: Vaseline
How to Enter: Leave a comment. Bonus entries available.
Deadline: January 26, 2009
Open to Us Only
_______________________________________

Resourceful Mommy SiteWarming Party Giveaway
18 lucky winners will win a prize from the party Goody Bag when Resourceful Mommy throws a Site Warming Party for Crafty Nation.

Enter to win by completing a free registration at Crafty Nation and then filling out the entry form on Resourceful Mommy.

Gain more entries by tweeting the contest on Twitter, blogging about the contest on your site, inviting a friend to register for Crafty Nation, and joining the SiteWarming Party-Goers Facebook group. All entries must use the form on Resourceful Mommy.

This contest ends Friday, January 23, 2009 at 8:00 p.m. EST.

The prizes are as follows:
1. Prize basket from Milkshake including a CD, DVD, and new band coloring book!
2. Gift basket of handmade products from Momma Made, a new online store.
3. Two Kubit2Me games including the Lil' Scholars and the Truth or Dare editions.
4. Notecards and correspondence cards from The Beehive Press.
5. Five coloring kits from My Coloring Things.
6. A complete gro-pak from Blue Avocado.
7. Three adorable kids' tees from Baby Potential.
8. A $25 craft bundle from You Can Make This
9. Three pairs of Francie Pants.

Build-A-Bear Workshop® Looking for Huggable Heroes®

Build-A-Bear Workshop® is looking for young leaders volunteering in their communities and helping others. From working in underserved schools, hospitals, nursing homes and disadvantaged neighborhoods to raised money to help those with special needs, protect wildlife and preserve the environment. Build-A-Bear Workshop calls these extraordinary young people "Huggable Heroes." The search is on for the 2009 Huggable Heroes class.

This year ten inspiring young people from the United States and Puerto Rico and two from Canada will be named Huggable Heroes. Each selected hero will receive a prize worth $10,000 ($7,500 in the form of an educational scholarship from Build-A-Bear Workshop and $2,500 from the Build-A-Bear Workshop Foundation to be donated to the 501(c)(3) charity of their choice). Plus, they will each receive a trip for themselves and one chaperone to St. Louis, home of Build-A-Bear Workshop World Bearquarters, where the winners will be honored for their good deeds, and meet the other 2009 Huggable Heroes. They will also participate in a photo shoot for the 2010 Build-A-Bear Workshop Huggable Heroes calendar.

About Build-A-Bear
Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. offers a fun make-your-own stuffed animal retail experience. The company currently operates more than 400 Build-A-Bear Workshop stores worldwide.

[Read more] [Check out past heroes]

Lots to Say Baby™ Pacifiers Introduce Line of BPA-free Pacifiers

Today, Lots to Say Baby™ Pacifiers launces its line of BPA-free pacifiers. Lots to Say Baby develops fun and functional baby products with safety as their number one priority.

"As a Mom I want only the safest products for my son. Our nipple has always been BPA-free but after reviewing the research and conflicting opinions on the safety of Bisphenol-A (BPA) we decided to make the change to a completely BPA-free pacifier," says Erin Wilson, President and Chief Momma for Lots to Say Baby.

These cute, witty pacificers are the voice inside your little one just waiting to be heard! Help your little one make a statement. Their pacificers feature 12 sayings in 5 color choices. Whether your little one is "Just Chillin", in need of a little "Volume Control" or simply saying "Hi," everyone will be able to tell exactly what is on your baby's mind.

[Visit Lots to Say Baby now.]

Giveaway: A Year of Dancing Dangerously

One Goodies for Mom reader will win a copy of “A Year of Dancing Dangerously,” by Lydia Raurell.

Do you have a dream? Something that you've always wanted to do? As author Lydia Raurell knows all you have to do is go for it! With Lydia dancing has been in her heart for as long as she can remember. Lydia knew her dream, courageously took a chance, and followed through, proving to all of us that dreams really do come true. In her book, “A Year of Dancing Dangerously,” Lydia shares her amazing and inspiring story, recorded and captured in her own words as she follows her dream.

At fifty-four-years-old, Lydia had been a mom and a businesswoman. She was ready to try something new. Lydia saw an ad in her local paper that read "Walk in Monday, Dance out Friday.” And that is just what she did. A year later she reigned atop the national leader board for ballroom dancing. Following Raurell across the country on her journey to the top, as you gain an intimate knowledge of what the competitions entail, and what it takes to succeed, and live your dreams.

Enter to Win
After visiting Lydia's site, leave us a comment letting us know your dream, that one thing that you've always wanted to do by midnight EST on Monday, January 19, 2009.

More ways to win
Extra entries for (1) linking to this contest, (2) subscribing to our feed or newsletter or following us with Blogger, or (3)having a link or button to the Goodies for Mom site on your site. Just leave us a separate comment letting us know. Make sure to share your links with us. This gives you four chances to win!

[View a video preview into Lydia’s journey and learn how you can order your copy.]

Organic Sensible Sippers = Yummy

Goodies for Mom received a carton of organic Sensible Sippers^TM juice boxes to try and both my boys were in total agreement: They are yummy and everytime they walked by they wanted one!!! They also were excited to see their favorite Bernstein Bear characters on the boxes. The juice boxes feature the classic Berenstain characters - such as Papa Bear, Mama Bear, Brother Bear and Sister Bear.

Sensible Sippers do not contain added sugar, preservatives or artificial colors. Plus, they are 50% organic juice and 50% water, reducing the amount of sugar in each serving without compromising taste. These juices contain 40% fewer calories than regular juice boxes. Additionally, Sensible Sippers contain no added sugar, artificial flavors or preservatives, and are certified organic in accordance with the USDA's National Organic Program.
The yummy Sensible Sippers are available in: Fruit Punch, Banana, Apple, and Mixed Berry. My little guy's favorite was the unique banana juice. I've not seen that before.

Sensible Sippers are available nationwide at Whole Foods Market.

About R.W. Knudsen Family
R.W. Knudsen Family® brand's offerings include natural sports drinks, more than 125 types of natural, organic fruit, and vegetable juices, elegant celebratory beverages, bubbly Spritzers and Spritzer Lights. The R.W. Knudsen Family products are made from 100 percent natural ingredients without any added sugar, preservatives or artificial colors.

Get a $1.00 Off Coupon valid through April 30, 2009.

[Visit Sensible Sippers now.]

Monday Mommy Blog Contest Roundup

Name of blog: SAHM Reviews
Prize: Pillsbury Pie Making Starter Kit
Prize Photo:

Sponsor: Pillsbury
How to Enter: Leave a comment. Bonus entries available.
Deadline: January 19th
Open to Us Only

Name of blog: SAHM Reviews
Prize: Dove Beauty Package (4 Dove Beauty Bars and a white bathrobe monogrammed with the Dove logo)
Sponsor: Dove
How to Enter: Leave a comment. Bonus entries available.
Deadline: January 26th
Open to Us Only

Name of blog: Everything Up Close
Number of winners: 3
Sponsor: Hip-T
Prize: Each winner will receive one Hip-T in their choice of size, color and style.
Link: http://everythingupclose.blogspot.com/2009/01/hip-t-review-giveaway.html
Restrictions: Canada & US only.
End Date: January 17, 2009

Name of blog: Everything Up Close
Number of winners: 1
Sponsor: Jockey Being Family™
Prize: One winner will receive a Jockey Being Family® Bear in the color Mocha.
Link: http://everythingupclose.blogspot.com/2009/01/jockey-being-family-review-giveaway.html
Restrictions: Canada & US only.
End Date: January 17, 2009

Name of blog: Everything Up Close
Number of winners: 5
Sponsor: Shaklee - Ken and Liz Amason (Independent Distributors)
Prize: Each winner will receive an container of Enfuselle® Eye Makeup Remover (2 fluid ounces - All Skin Types - Paraben Free).
Link: http://everythingupclose.blogspot.com/2009/01/shaklee-review-giveaway.html
Restrictions: Canada, US & Mexico only.
End Date: January 19, 2009

Follow Goodies for Mom with Blogger and Twitter

Those of you with Blogger accounts can now "Follow" Goodies for Mom.

We just added the "Follow" gadget to our right sidebar. This option allows you to easily see Goodies for Mom updates right through your blogger dashboard.

Iin case you did not know, you can also tweet along with us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/goodiesformom

New Online Stroller Comparison Tool from Stroller Depot

StrollerDepot.com just launched a new online tool to help your find the perfect stroller for your specific needs - the Stroller Comparison Tool.

The tool operates similar to many auto and electronics comparison tools. It allows the specifications, features and other pertinent information for several different strollers to be viewed at once, and compared side by side.

StrollerDepot.com CEO Tim Weeks stated, "This tool has been in the works for months now and we are excited to be able to release it after much testing and refinement. We believe it will be another great tool, along side our product demonstration videos, that can truly help parents and grandparents decide which stroller best fits their needs"

You can add products to the "comparison sheet" from available product information pages. Or a few top comparisons of popular models have already been created to help those not sure where to begin their search. Where was this when we were looking for a stroller???

About Stroller Depot
Stroller Depot Stores is a leading online retailer of children's product. Through its family of sites the Company offers strollers, car seats, high chairs, cribs, crib bedding, children's mattresses and furniture, diaper bags and a variety of products for children. Stroller Depot provides buying guides, best seller lists, stroller comparison tools and product demonstration videos to assist customers in their research and buying decisions.

[Visit the Stoller Comparison Tool now.]

First Available Silicone Baby Bottle from Prince Lionheart

Prince Lionheart has released a great new option in baby bottles. Prince Lionheart’s Silicone Baby Bottles are the world’s first pure silicone baby bottle.

“Prince Lionheart created a new feeding line using silicone, a natural substance that contains no chemicals and is 100% safe for babies,” said Kelly Griffiths, President and CEO of Prince Lionheart. “Now, parents who are concerned about the health of their babies have a safe and natural alternative to plastic baby bottles.”

Unlike a large number of plastic bottles, Prince Lionheart’s Silicone Baby Bottles contain NO Bisphenol A, Phthalates, PVC, or lead. They are also heat-resistant, microwavable, shatterproof and dishwasher safe. The plastic ring, plug and cap contain no polycarbonates and are food grade, FDA approved.

Because of the pliancy of silicone, bottle-feeding with Prince Lionheart’s Silicone Baby Bottles replicates the tactile experience of breastfeeding and helps reduce baby-feeding problems like colic, spit-up, burping and gas.

About Prince Lionheart
Prince Lionheart designs, manufactures, and distributes innovative products that fulfill a range of baby care needs including Feeding, Nursery, Safety, Play, and Travel products. For more than three decades, Prince Lionheart products have been found in the homes of millions of families, making it one of the most recognized and trusted brands in the industry. All Prince Lionheart products are designed with safety in mind and manufactured to the highest of quality standards.

[Visit Prince Lionheart now].

Wednesday Mommy Blogger Giveaway Roundup

Prize: Your Choice of a Frecklebox Personalized Book
Blog: Chefdruck Reviews
Link: http://chefdruckreviews.blogspot.com/2008/12/frecklebox-personalized-gifts-giveaway.html
Enter By: 1/9/2009

Prize: A Princess Dress Up Accessory Kit
Blog: Chefdruck Reviews
Link: http://chefdruck.blogspot.com/2008/12/my-princess-academy-dress-up-giveaway.html
Enter by: 1/9

Prize: Writer Mama Book by Christina Katz
Blog: Chefdruck Reviews
Link: http://chefdruck.blogspot.com/2009/01/writer-mama-giveaway.html
Enter by: 1/16

Prize: Jonathan's Spoons Wooden Lazy Spoon
Blog: Chefdruck Reviews
Link: http://chefdruckreviews.blogspot.com/2009/01/jonathans-spoons-giveaway.html
Enter by: 1/16

Let’s Eat Cake…St. Jude!

Goodies for Mom is Blogging it forward!

Let’s Eat Cake, a wonderful fundraiser hosted by Melissa Margarita-DiStefano, is coming up on Tuesday, February 17th at the Plaza Paramount Hotel! Let’s Eat Cake is a cake decorating competition with all proceeds going to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Learn more about the fundraiser right here.

In an effort to make sure they get the word out to everyone (and raise LOTS of money), they are starting a blog campaign. Here’s what you need to do if you have a blog…Repost this post (or create your own version) on your blog and ask others to post it on their blogs too.

Here's the best part: Melissa will donate one dollar to the fundraiser for EVERY BLOG that posts on Let’s Eat Cake, this week! Let's raise as much money as we can for this great cause!!!

Once you have created your post posted, leave us a comment here letting us know that you posted it along with the url to the blog. They will be following the posts from blog to blog to see how many posts there are.

It’s for a great cause and it will be fun to see how far it will go! So lets do it… Lets blog it forward and raise money for a great cause!!!

**Kudos to Unique Designs for creating this fun chain-blog effort!**

Melissa… kick in another $1 for Goodies for Mom!

Product Review/Giveaway Pak from MomSelect

We received a great MomSelect Product Preview Pak to let us test some great products and one lucky winner will get a share in the loot.

Included in the pack was an awesome plush puppy dog from Build-A-Bear, which my boys proceed to fight over who got to become the owner of. Build-A-Bear really is a fun place to take the kids and bears now start at just $10.00. Of course, keep the accessories are where things start getting pricey but they are just so darn cute who can resist? On a recent trip, we left with Batman and Fireman bears in tow. They also have great party options with Build-A-Bear Party that start at just $10.00/guest and that includes a plush animal and for under $15.00/guest they can even get an inexpensive outfit too. Plus they have relationships with many mall food vendors to provide refreshments for your party after your guests creat their new pals. [Visit Build-A-Bear now.]

Another item included in the pak was a sample of All Clear. I love All Clear. I was so glad this came out when I had my second son because he has allergies and sensitive skin so we loved having an inexpensive, gentle option to those baby detergents. I'm a huge fan of All - Fresh Rain too. [Get $1.00 off coupon for All Clear.]

Newbaby.com also provide us with some great band-aid holders. Newbaby.com lets you connect with other new moms to share thoughts and ideas, ask and answer questions and blog about your personal experience. Share your photos, videos and audio in easy to use online tools, while accessing nationally recognized Expert's advice. And it is all for FREE. [Visit Newbaby.com now.]
Mobistories.com lets you download virtual books to your PC, MAC, iPhone or iPod. Cute narrated stories for children under 10 that you can download. The cool thing about MobiStories is that they're meant to be mobile - take them with you either on your laptop or portable device.

What You Can Win
Now it's your turn. Here's what one lucky Goodies for Mom reader has a chance to win from the MomSelect companies:

• $10 Build-A-Bear gift card
• Mobistories.com downloadable virtual book code worth $10.00
• Con Cosmo Language CD from Lango
• 40 free prints from HP PhotoSmart Express Station

Enter to win
Just visit any of the sponsors mentioned above. Then come back here and leave us a comment telling us your favorite product on that site. Deadline: Monday, January 12, 2009 at midnight EST. Open to US Residents only.

More ways to win
Extra entries for (1) linking to this contest, (2) subscribing to our feed or newsletter or following us with Blogger, or (3)having a link or button to the Goodies for Mom site on your site. Just leave us a separate comment letting us know. Make sure to share your links with us. This gives you four chances to win!

Visit one of the sponsors now:

1. Build-A-Bear
2. Mobistories.com
3. Lango
4. HP PhotoSmart Express Station
5. Newbaby.com
6. All Clear

Monday Mommy Blog Giveaway Round Up

Name of blog: Everything Up Close
Number of winners: 3
Sponsor: Envirosax
Prize: Each winner will receive one Envirosax bag.
Link: http://everythingupclose.blogspot.com/2009/01/envirosax-review-giveaway.html
Restrictions: Canada & US only.
End Date: January 11, 2009

Name of blog: Everything Up Close
Number of winners: 2
Sponsor: Better Life
Prize: Each winner will receive a starter kit of Better Life natural cleaning products (one glass cleaner, one gentle scrubber, one all purpose cleaner & one floor cleaner).
Link: http://everythingupclose.blogspot.com/2009/01/better-life-review-giveaway.html
Restrictions: Canada & US only.
End Date: January 12, 2009

Blog Name: Two Of A Kind, Working On A Full House
Prize: Zipper Bottom Bag
URL: http://twoofakindworkingonafullhouse.blogspot.com/2009/01/jillie-willie-apron-review-and-zipper.html
Deadline: Ends 1/31
US ONLY

Blog Name: Two Of A Kind, Working On A Full House
Prize: Diaper Case
URL: http://twoofakindworkingonafullhouse.blogspot.com/2009/01/hiccup-nursing-cover-review-and-diaper.html
Deadline: Ends 1/31
US ONLY

Blog Name: Two Of A Kind, Working On A Full House
Prize: Snack And Play Travel Tray
URL: http://twoofakindworkingonafullhouse.blogspot.com/2009/01/star-kids-snack-and-play-travel-tray.html
Deadline: Ends 1/31
US ONLY

Blog Name: Two Of A Kind, Working On A Full House
Prize: Design Your OWN box of My Fruit Roll-Ups
URL: http://twoofakindworkingonafullhouse.blogspot.com/2008/12/my-fruit-roll-ups-review-and-giveaway.html
Deadline: Ends 1/15
US ONLY

Blog name: SAHM Reviews
Direct URL: http://sahmtooreviews.blogspot.com/2008/12/i-was-dust-ined-get-it-to-use-pledge.html
Prize: Pledge Natural Beauty Furniture Polish
Deadline: Midnight CT of January 7th
Eligibility: US Only
Method of entry: Leave a comment. Bonus entries available.

Blog name: SAHM Reviews
Direct URL: http://sahmtooreviews.blogspot.com/2008/12/zen-and-art-of-ds-puzzle-games-giveaway.html
Prize: One Zenses Ocean AND One Zenses Rainforest game for the DS
Deadline: Midnight CT of January 7th
Eligibility: US Only
Method of entry: Leave a comment. Bonus entries available.

Rebecca Romijn Gives Birth To Twins

Rebecca Romijn, 35, and hubby Jerry O'Connell, 34, welcomed their twin girls into the world on December 28, 2008. They named the girls, Dolly Rebecca Rose and Charlie Tamara Tulip, according to a representative.

Source: MSNBC

Wee Generation Eco Diaper Bag and Smart Shopper™ Winners

The latest winners in our Goodies for Mom's contests are:

Wee Generation Eco Diaper Bag

• Commenter #85 - D

Smart Shopper™ Electronic Grocery List Organizer

• Commenter #143 - Rasberryswrlgirl

Thank you so much to the sponsors of these great giveaways:
SmartShopper™ Electronic Grocery List Organizer
Wee Generation

Travolta's son, dead at 16

We just heard the tragic news that Jett Travolta, the 16 year old son of John Travolta and Kelly Preston died this morning.

Jett reportedly had a seizure, and hit his head while on vacation with the family on Grand Bahama Island. The article also reported that he had a history of seizures, and suffered from Kawasaki disease.

I cannot imagine what the family must be going through losing a child, especially during the holiday season. Please keep the entire Travolta family in your thoughts and prayers.

Source: E! online