Monday, January 18, 2016

Super January Reviews

Kicking 2016 off with a review mega post. We received two PinchMe boxes and the Influenster Jingle VoxBox all filled with great samples to test and share. Lots of good stuff, so lets dive in.

Inside the Influenster Jingle VoxBox:


  • Cetaphil® Moisturizing Cream
  • Hallmark itty bittys®
  • Pure Ice nail polish
  • KISS lashes
  • NYC New York Color eye liner
  • Ore-Ida® coupon
  • Biscoff cookies


  • Inside the PINCHme boxes:


  • Beyond® Grain-Free White Meat Chicken & Egg Recipe Dry Cat Food
  • Beyond® Grain Free Wild Salmon Recipe Wet Cat Food
  • Align® Probiotic Supplement
  • Breathe Right® Nasal Strips
  • Purina Pro Plan Savor Shredded Blend Chicken and Rice Formula
  • Secret Clinical Strength Invisible Solid Completely Clean
  • Nexcare™ Tegaderm™ Waterproof Transparent Dressings


  • Will do these reviews quick and dirty since there is a lot to cover.

    Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream (#Cheerphil). What's not to love. This is just one of these best moisturizers out there. It goes on smooth, heals dry skin, and leaves skin feeling hydrated.

    Hallmark itty bittys (#ittybittys). We received the Olaf itty bitty and he is the cutest thing ever. Soft and squeezable but also well made and durable. The entire line of itty bittys are darling!

    Pure Ice nail polish. As much as I loved this color it just wasn't the best nail polish. I need polish that is pretty forgiving and easy to apply and this left streaks. If I can figure out how to apply in fewer swipes this may be a favorite color.

    KISS false lashes and glue. The adhesive is good, not too runny, and the lashes look nice on.

    NYC New York Color waterproof eye pencil. Love the idea of waterproof eye liner pencil. You have to wear liquid to get that sort of staying power normally. It goes on like a pencil but wears like liquid.

    Ore-Ida tatter tots. We love us some tots and these were tasty!

    Biscoff cookies. I did not share, these were mine. I enjoyed every last one with my morning coffee. Mmmmmm! Need I say more?

    Beyond Grain-Free White Meat Chicken & Egg Recipe dry cat food and Wild Salmon Recipe wet cat food and Purina Pro Plan Savor Shredded Blend Chicken and Rice Formula dry cat food. I have to interpret our in house reviewers opinion, but considering he scarfed all of these down as fast as he could, I would dare say he enjoyed them all.

    Align Probiotic Supplement. This was not a pleasant sample the first two days of use, but after the unfortunate bout of "bubbles", things appeared to be working well. 

    Breathe Right Nasal Strips. I get to review the person they were used on as the person trying to sleep next to him. These do not help snoring but at least they aren't painful to take off and they stay in place all night. 

    Secret Clinical Strength Invisible Solid Completely Clean. This is a very strong scent, clean, but strong. Protects very well, no marks on clothes, and it lasts all day.

    Nexcare Tegaderm Waterproof Transparent Dressings. We always have the unfortunate need for first aid so these came in handy. They go on well, stay on, and cover wounds nicely so they can heal.





    I received all products complimentary from Influenster and PINCHme.
    The views and opinions expressed are purely my own.

    Thursday, December 31, 2015

    Sour Patch Smoothie

    This is it for 2015, so why not go out with a bang or a sour I guess. The new year is all about trying new things and if you like sour like we do then this should be on the top of your list. Plus, with only three ingredients this smoothie just couldn't get any easier.

    Strawberry Sour Patch Smoothie

    4 cups strawberries (or other berry of your choice)
    1 can lemon/lime soda
    1/2 a packet of sugar free lemonade mix (you can add more if you like it super sour)

    Toss it all in a blender and run until smooth. Enjoy!

    Monday, November 30, 2015

    Holiday Gift Bottles

    Every year I have to think up something creatively cheap to give out as neighborhood gifts. Something that is festive, creative, cheap, but also looks like I spent a lot of time and money and gave it a lot of thought. Why do I do this to my self? I have no good explanation! So for those of you also frantically searching the blog-o-sphere, here is a simple, fun, easy idea that is also basically FREE!

    Here's what you need to make your own Holiday Gift Bottles;
    Starbucks Frappuccino bottles and wrapping paper. That's it! Well, not including the incidentals like a circle cutter or scissors, tape or glue, and whatever you plan to fill the bottles with, but let's just call this a two item projects so it still sounds super easy.

    The frappuccino bottles are so cute and if you don't drink them, ask a friend or check yard sale groups to buy empty ones for cheap. I sold the one's I didn't use on this project for 10 cents each. Once you've gathered your bottles, measure the lid and cut circle to the same size. I wanted the white rim to show so I did them the size of the logo area. A swipe of double sided tape and you are all set. Then just fill the bottle with whatever you like. Candies, hot coco mix, mug cake mix, or our personal choice, concord grape juice from our vines. If you chose to use these for a canned item you will be pleased to know that they do reseal and can be used for canned goodies. So our neighbors can enjoy their juice now or save it for later, but let's be honest it's just too good to wait and that bottle is just to cute not to pop it right open!



    Thursday, October 1, 2015

    And The Winner is


    US!!
    No, I couldn't believe it either, but as luck would have it we are now the proud owners of a very awesome Ryobi 12" miter saw. It's all thanks to Amy over at HerToolBelt and of course Ryobi Nation. You can see the amazing bookcase Amy made (and where we entered) here. We won't be making anything quite so fancy for a bit, but this will be put to great use as we have just about reached the trim phase of our basement remodel (pictures and projects to come, I promise). Now we just have to convince the mini man that this saw doesn't belong to him so we can use it!

    Tuesday, September 29, 2015

    Healthy Family Giveaway

    We are excited to partner with Mommy Scene and celebrate Fall and the launch of a new product — Sudsy Dough moldable soap on Kickstarter! What better way to celebrate than with a Healthy Family Giveaway featuring some great family-focused products! Be sure to check out the Sudsy Dough Kickstarter Campaign, our review of Yummi Pouch, and all the other prizes below and enter to win!

    Heathy Family Giveaway Prizes - Mommy Scene

    Sudsy Dough

    Prize: 2 tubs of Sudsy Dough moldable bath soap, 12 ounces each
    Heathy Family Giveaway - Sudsy Dough - Mommy Scene

    Now on Kickstarter! Sudsy Dough is a interactive bath toy that doubles as a moldable scented dough and a cleansing sensory soap! Sudsy Dough was created by a mom to make bath time fun for her own daughter. Kids can squeeze and squish Sudsy Dough in the bath, rub it on as a cleansing body wash, or take it outside the tub and make custom shapes that will dry into soaps. Each ball also has a surprise bath toy hidden inside! Sudsy Dough is offering some great rewards to thank their campaign supporters — all deliverable before Christmas for a great gift!

    See the Sudsy Dough Kickstarter »


    Piggy Paint Hug Life Gift Set

    Prize: Hug Life Gift Set with 3 shades of non-toxic nail polish including Let's Flamingle, Wild Child, and Periwinkle Little Star Piggy Paint is a natural, eco-friendly nail polish for kids. It's non-toxic, hypoallergenic formula makes it safe to use on all piggies. Piggy Paint dries to a hard, durable finish that can easily be removed with the eco-friendly, low odor Piggy Paint nail polish remover. Both are made in the USA! piggypaint.com
    Heathy Family Giveaway - Piggy Paint - Mommy Scene

    SOPHi Nai Polish

    Prize: 2 shades of SOPHi natural nail polish for adults plus SOPHi's PRIME + SHINE + SEAL System for maximum durability From the maker of Piggy Paint, the non-toxic nail polish for kids, SOPHi is a natural nail polish in SOPHisticated colors for adults. These polishes are virtually odorless, eco-friendly, hypoallergenic, and made in the USA. SOPHi is free of all harsh chemicals and does not cause nails to yellow or become brittle. sophinailpolish.com

    Baby Comfy Care

    Prize: Baby Comfy Deluxe Safety Nail Clipper
    Heathy Family Giveaway - Baby Comfy Care - Mommy Scene

    The patented single-blade design of Baby Comfy Nail won't cut baby's skin. Baby Comfy Nail Deluxe safety clippers have only one blade! The bottom flat plastic ledge pushes baby's skin back out of the way while the top blade cuts the nail... and only the nail. The unique ergonomic design and larger size makes it easier to hold and operate when you don't want to make a mistake. The design also protects from cutting too closely to the sensitive nail bed. babycomfycare.com

    Leaf Therapeutic

    Prize: Leaf Skin Therapy Lotion - 2 ounces
    Heathy Family Giveaway - Leaf Therapy Lotion - Mommy Scene

    Leaf Skin Therapy Lotion features a formula that is both hydrating and healing for damaged skin, without using toxic preservatives. Leaf Skin Therapy Lotion uses natural and safe (and expensive!) fermented radish root and goldenseal extract. It is safe enough to use on babies and, although this lotion was specially designed for people with eczema and other dry skin conditions, it works great on normal skin, too. Best of all, it has an extremely low toxicity rating on the Environmental Working Group website. If you are looking for an ultra-hydrating, hypoallergenic, unscented lotion, this is the lotion for you! leaftherapeutic.com

    Little Standout

    Prize: 100% Silicone Diamond Teething Toy
    Heathy Family Giveaway - Little Standout - Mommy Scene

    Add a little bling to your day with Little Standout's 100% silicone Diamond Teether! Made for tiny hands and achy gums, our silicone teethers are non-toxic and free of BPA, PVC, phthalates, lead, cadmium and all that other yucky stuff you don't want to see your baby putting into their mouth. They are dishwasher safe, making them super easy to clean and totally awesome! littlestandout.com

    Young Living

    Prize: One Bottle of OrthoEase massage oil, one Oola Book + samples from Young Living
    Heathy Family Giveaway - Young Living - Mommy Scene

    OrthoEase massage oil soothes and warms tired and stressed bodies, helping to combat the damaging effects of everyday activities. With a calming blend of oils, it will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed. OrthoEase contains: coconut oil, wintergreen, peppermint, juniper, eucalyptus, lemongrass, marjoram, thyme, vetiver, sweet almond oil, and olive oil. The international bestselling book "Oola, Find Balance in an Unbalanced World. The 7 areas you need to balance and grow to live the life of your dreams" is written by Dave Braun and Troy Amdahl. This book inspired Young Living's Infused 7 Line. As a Mom and wife, I strive to provide my family with a lifestyle of wellness and abundance. My life has changed since November 2014, using Young Living Essential Oils. I have less anxiety, more peace, more energy and an overall sense of well being. Not only do I apply and diffuse them every day, I cook and clean with them and save tons of money. Our body is our greatest asset. The healthier we are and better we feel, the more we can enjoy life, our families, friends and go after our dreams. Each day we get older and each day we are given a fresh new opportunity to age better, to have more joy, energy and focus and to truly experience "young living". Follow me for upcoming class updates and daily Oily Living.
    Erika Miller
    Independent Distributor
    Young Living Essential Oils
    #2108472
    ylwebsite.com/ErikaMiller

    Baby Buddy

    Prize: Baby Buddy 360 Toothbrush (Step 1 & Step 2)
    Heathy Family Giveaway - Baby Buddy - Mommy Scene

    The Baby Buddy 360 degree toothbrush is truly innovative - it is the world's first 360 degree designed toothbrush. Developed in the Osaka University Dental Hospital of Japan, the 360 Toothbrush has unparalleled cleaning power thanks to over 10,000 micro fine bristles - 10 times more than the average toothbrush. Circular rings firmly hold bristles in place, while spacing washers between bristle layers make it more effective for removing plaque and keeping the brush clean. Works great for cleaning the tongue and for massaging gums. Take a 360 Toothbrush to work, out camping, or on the road, as it may be used effectively with water alone when you are on the go. Available as Step 1 for ages 4-24 month olds and as Step 2 for 2-12 year olds. Smile4BabyBuddy.com

    Genesis 950

    Prize: Gallon of Genesis 950 & spray bottle
    Heathy Family Giveaway - Genesis 950 - Mommy Scene

    Genesis 950 is a green, all purpose cleaner that makes cleaning your home safe. Genesis 950 is free of harsh chemicals and works as a concentrate with water to break the bonds of stains by making them water soluble. When a stain becomes water soluble, it can then be broken down and flushed from the surface. In doing so it removes the toughest stains and biggest messes. genesis950.com

    Babycook Pro

    Prize: Babycook Pro Original Baby Food Maker, prize color may vary - winner may be able to select preferred color if in stock
    Heathy Family Giveaway - Babycook Pro - Mommy Scene

    babycook pro is the original baby food maker on the market. It makes up to 4.7 cups of food in a sleek, patented countertop appliance that steam cooks, blends and reheats all-in-one, in 15 minutes or less. Refrigerate or freeze leftovers, then simply defrost and reheat right in babycook. Steam cooking locks in vitamins and nutrients, a multi-purpose mixing blade provides just the right texture, the timer has an audible alert to tell you when meals are ready, and all of this with total one-handed operation. This appliance is loaded with features that make any parent a "pro" in baby food preparation. beabausa.com

    Sip & Spin

    Prize: Sip & Spin Straw Cup
    Heathy Family Giveaway - Sip & Spin - Mommy Scene

    The Sip & Spin straw cup has a unique fun-factor - a pinwheel in the lid that spins as you sip. Playful artwork on the pinwheel disc coordinates with the cup art, creating an engaging drinking experience for your child. The racing trucks and soaring butterflies can encourage playing kids to take a water break, cheer up and rehydrate a sick child, or motivate a toddler to transition from a bottle or spouted sippy to a straw cup. As parents, we know what a pain it can be to clean kids' cups, so we made sure all the components come apart easily for cleaning and are dishwasher safe. The Sip & Spin straw cup is a cute gift and a fun way to keep kids hydrated... Hydration Motivation! nuspinkids.com

    kidSTAT

    Prize: kidSTAT First Aid Kit
    Heathy Family Giveaway - kidSTAT - Mommy Scene

    kidSTAT is targeted for active toddlers and kids. This kit is equipped with hospital-grade products to treat the most common childhood emergencies: aches+sprains, bites+burns, and cuts+scrapes. kidSTAT has easy-to-follow, first-aid instructions to reassure you when your child is in distress. Together with "red flags" warnings on when to seek medical attention, this comprehensive kit was designed by moms, who happen to be ER doctors, too.
    kidSTAT contains:

    91 items
    Doctor-written, step-by-step instructions
    Full-sized items, latex & BPA free
    Hospital-grade products
    Red flags to go to the ER
    Emergency contact/Pediatric CPR card
    threemommydoctors.com

    Pacific Baby

    Prize: Natural Feeding Starter Set - Green
    Heathy Family Giveaway - Pacific Baby - Mommy Scene

    Made from Natural Bamboo. Safe & Healthy. Machine Washable and Biodegradable. pacificbabyworld.com

    Yummi Pouch

    Prize: Yummi Pouch Brights Reusable Food Pouches
    Heathy Family Giveaway - Yummi Pouch - Mommy Scene

    Yummi Pouch Brights (Set of 4) combine style and convenience in an eco-friendly container you can fill with homemade smoothies and blended snacks! Easy to fill and clean through the top zipper opening and enjoyed by drinking from the side spout, Yummi Pouch reusable food pouches are great for kids taking healthy snacks on the go. Includes set of 4 assorted patterns. revelae.com

    Enter to win these great prizes!

    This contest is sponsored by Mommy Scene and is open to US entries. One winner will be chosen and displayed on the giveaway widget after the contest ends on Oct. 8th, 2015. Mommy Scene and participating blogs are not responsible for fulfilling brand-sponsored prizes. Prizes will be shipped directly from each brand.
    a Rafflecopter giveaway