June « 2011 « The Bragging Mommy

Pei Wei Asian Diner Review

Both my husband and I love Asian food. So we couldn’t wait to try out Pei Wei Asian Diner.

When we walked in I was impressed by the atmosphere of the place. It is a low soothing light, it was very clean and the aroma of good food was in the air. We ordered our food and then we took a seat. First, they brought out our Minced Chicken with Cool Lettuce Wraps: “Shiitake mushrooms, water chestnuts, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, rice sticks, iceberg lettuce”. As you can see from the picture they looked so good. And the looks didn’t disappoint since they tasted so yummy. The flavor was awesome and the crispiness of the cool lettuce complimented it perfectly. Oh and there was a lot, under that lettuce their is even more!

They brought out our food as it was ready, which I really liked. You can order your own entree’s or eat family style (they have extra plates just for this). Here is what we got:

Pad Thai
“Thai sweet and sour sauce, tofu, bean sprouts, scallions, egg, crushed peanuts, lime, cilantro, rice noodles”

Sweet & Sour
“Cantonese sweet and sour sauce, red ginger, onions, green bell peppers, pineapple”

Mandarin Kung Pao with Shrimp
“Chile seared soy sauce, scallions, garlic, snap peas, carrots, peanuts”

Each entree dish comes with your choice of white or brown rice. We loved everything! It was so delicious that we didn’t have any left over’s to bring home, and we ordered a lot of food, LOL.

After we were done eating Bug ate one of their Huge Chocolate chip cookies and loved every bite!

I highly recommend visiting Pei Wei Asian Diner. The food was delicious and the service was wonderful!

See a list of Pei Wei locations to find one near you!

Pei Wei Asian Diner gets Bragging Rights!

*I received a gift card to Pei Wei for my review.

Heidi June 30, 2011 family, food, restaurant, review

Purina Pet Gear Review and Puppy Pads Giveaway (10 Winners!) [CLOSED]

Purina Pet Gear has products for both dogs and cats, from pet beds and toys to products for training your dog and everything in between!

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I have two fabulous dogs at my house. They are like my kids, they mean so much to me and our family. I love the products available from Purina Pet Gear. I’ve got my eye on a couple of their dog beds and chew toys I was sent a sample of their puppy training pads, their Giant Pet Hair Roller, and the OXY Pet Stain and Odor Eliminator to try out.

Since my dogs are past their potty training days I gave the puppy pad to my sister who has a new puppy. She said the pads worked really well and were really absorbent. There were no puddles or leaks and she could smell a difference from her old pads as these have an odor eliminator.

I love the Giant Pet Hair Roller and need it since one of my dogs sheds. It is so big I can easily roll the couches, or myself in minutes. It has 60 sheets so it will last a while.

Even though my dogs are potty trained, they still have accidents. Mostly throwing up when they have eaten something they shouldn’t. Having the OXY Pet Stain and Odor Eliminator on hand is a must. It lifts the pet soils (throw up, urine, etc.) for easy removal and destroys the odors on contact. The special oxygenation process leaves the surface clean and fresh.

To see all the available products in the Purina Pet Gear line visit www.PurinaPetGear.com.

Purina Pet Gear gets Bragging Rights!

10 Lucky Bragging Mommy Readers will win Purina Pet Gear Puppy Training Pads! (they will receive a coupon for free product as well as a sample)

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Purina Pet Gear and tell us another item they have other than the ones I mentioned.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

1 entry- Tell us about your pets.
1 entry- Tell us why you need these puppy training pads.
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
10 entries- Blog about this giveaway including a link to this post. Leave a link.
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway linking to this post in your tweet.

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

You can enter this giveaway until July 14 @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

*I received Purina Pet Gear Products for my review.

Heidi June 30, 2011 giveaway, pet, review

The Natural Dentist Review and Gift Bag Giveaway [CLOSED]

I am always on the lookout to improve my families health and that includes their Oral Health. I never realized how hard it is to get a 2.5 yr old to brush her teeth! I’m not talking about just sucking the toothpaste off the toothbrush, because my daughter would do that all day long.

I am talking about Leah actually letting me scrub and brush her teeth. Well I found a new secret weapon! The Natural Dentist has some awesome flavored toothpaste that my daughter fell in love with! I put some on her toothbrush and usually she just sucks it off but this time she actually let me brush her teeth! I decided to brush her teeth while singing a song I heard once on Barney, and it worked like a charm!

I really love that the toothpaste from Natural Dentist has no artificial dyes, sweeteners, or preservatives. It is great for kids of all ages and comes in 2 great flavors Berry Blast and Groovy Grape.

“Getting kids in the habit of good oral hygiene is important — and sometimes not that easy. Thanks to its fruity taste and kid friendly labeling, Natural Dentist’s Cavity Zapper Fluoride toothpaste can give your good parenting efforts a big boost. An all-natural gel-like formulation delivers cavity zapping fluoride every time they brush. No artificial dyes, sweeteners, or preservatives. Recommended for children 2 years old and up (children under 6 should be supervised by an adult).” (Natural Dentist website)

The Natural Dentist also has a really great Cavity Zapper or Fluoride Rinse that is safe for kids! “Fluoride is especially important as kids grow up, as it fosters even stronger and more decay-resistant adult teeth. We developed Cavity Zapper Fluoride Rinse so that parents can feel good about giving their kids a natural and safe fluoride additive. We also made sure it tastes great so that kids develop good oral hygiene habits early in life. ADA-accepted and recommended for children 6 years old and up. Available in Berry Blast flavor.”

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Not only do they have great tasting toothpaste and rinses for kids, but they have them for adults too! There are several categories of natural oral care products to choose from. I really liked the Anti-Cavity toothpaste and Healthy Gums and Balance rinses.

While being pregnant it is sometimes hard for me to brush my teeth. It’s not that I don’t want to, it’s the whole gagging reflux thing! It seriously makes me nauseous just thinking about it. BUT with these toothpastes and rinses I don’t feel that gag reflux anymore! I think it’s because of how natural and good smelling they are. Some of the flavors I really liked were the Peppermint Twist, Orange Zest and Peppermint Sage. All of the flavors I tried I really liked!

Things that are Bragworthy:

Great tasting products for everyone!
Get your kids to LIKE brushing their teeth!
Wonderful tutorials on how to better take care of your teeth and your families!
Natural Products with no artificial flavorings or dye
no peroxide or other harsh chemicals used in the teeth whitening toothpaste
Have Healthy, Happy Gums & Teeth!

All of these great products can be purchased at www.stopbleedingnaturally.com

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The Natural Dentist gets Bragging Rights!

One lucky winner will receive Natural Dentist Gift Bag containing a variety of kids products

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Natural Dentist and let us know something you learned that wasn’t mentioned here!

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

3 entries- “Like” Natural Dentist on Facebook
3 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
5 entries- Blog about this giveaway. Leave a link.

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

*I received several products from The Natural Dentist for the purpose of this review

Briann June 30, 2011 child, cleaning, family, giveaway, review, toddler

Thomas and Friends: The Birthday Express on DVD Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

It’s The Ultimate Birthday Bash As Thomas Unwraps Stunning CG Animation And Birthday Surprises!

THOMAS & FRIENDS™: THE BIRTHDAY EXPRESS

There’s a party on the Island of Sodor, and you’re invited! Join Thomas the Tank Engine™ and all his railway pals as they celebrate the joy and surprises of birthdays in Thomas & Friends™: The Birthday Express, coming to DVD, Digital Download and On Demand May 17, 2011 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment. This fully-loaded DVD, that includes a bonus wooden whistle set, features brilliant CG animation and is sure to become a collectible fan favorite. Thomas & Friends continues to teach timeless life lessons such as discovery, friendship and cooperation, inviting children to enter a world of imagination through the tracks of a train and the words of a story. Thomas & Friends makes every birthday celebration special. Little engineers can celebrate birthdays with Thomas & Friends with party goods supplies from American Greetings, the Birthday Surprise board game from Fisher-Price®, Thomas-themed birthday cakes and birthday-themed books including Happy Birthday Thomas! from Random House, and more.

Unwrap your favorite episodes with this special Thomas & Friends collection. Birthdays always come with surprises when your engine friends are part of the celebration. Percy must safely deliver a beautifully wrapped present, while Thomas encounters a mystery as he takes Sir Topham Hatt to the party. Full steam ahead for birthday fun!

My boys have an obsession with trains. They can sit and play trains ALL.DAY.LONG. So naturally they LOVE watching trains on TV, and their favorite by far is Thomas! My oldest Harrison always asks “Watch Thomas and his friends?” and starts singing the song… it’s really pretty catchy. =) Thomas have been around forever, and I have to say I love the more recent, updated episodes. This Thomas The Train DVD is filled with great episodes that even I enjoy watching. And the best part? It comes with a super-cool wooden whistle that my boys LOVE. What’s better than being able to make a choo-choo noise yourself? This would make such a cute birthday gift, or a gift for any old day!

Episodes include:·
“Percy’s Parcel”·
“Double Trouble”·
“The Man in the Hills”·
“The Party Surprise”

Things that are Brag Worthy:

Bring one of your child’s favorite characters home on DVD
Includes a bonus wooden whistle set
Bonus features include: “Thomas’ Birthday Special Game” & Roary the Racing Car™ Bonus Episode – “Roary Takes Off”
Available on Amazon, and it’s eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25
Cute birthday gift idea

Available online and in stores now!

Thomas and Friends: The Birthday Express on DVD gets Bragging Rights!

Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment are generously giving away a Thomas and Friends: The Birthday Express DVD to one lucky reader!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Tell us your child’s favorite Thomas character!

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
2 entries- Blog about this giveaway. Leave a link.
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway using @braggingmommy. You can use this:

#Win a Thomas and Friends: The Birthday Express on DVD #giveaway from @braggingmommy! http://tinyurl.com/682xkhc {ends 7.14}

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

*I received a Thomas and Friends: The Birthday Express on DVD for the purpose of this review

Joanna June 30, 2011 dvd, giveaway, review

Pretty Pushers Stylish Cotton Disposable Delivery Gown Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

“Pregnancy involves much preparation. For about 40 weeks, you schedule doctor’s visits, compose a birth plan, pick nursery color schemes, and ponder baby names. You try to plan every aspect of the journey, but then the contractions begin and often you find that the events in labor itself are far beyond your control. Being thrown into the hands of a hospital, birth partner, doula, doctor, or whatever your preference can feel quite the opposite to all of the planning that had taken place up until that point.

Pretty Pushers is focused on THAT POINT…the climax…the finish line…the birth itself. We want you to own your experience as much as possible.

It will be the hardest work you ever do and you should feel confident, beautiful, and comfortable while doing it! Don’t be at the mercy of the hospital gown or even an old night shirt…this is a big deal! After much research and consideration of the modern labor experience, Pretty Pushers has created fashionable and functional products specific to delivery day.”-Pretty Pushers

I have to be completely honest, whern I first heard of Pretty Pushers disposable delivery gowns I thought “A Disposable Gown, I wouldn’t like it”. Boy was I wrong. When the gown arrived I tried it on and FELL IN LOVE! First let me start by saying that the cotton fabric is SO SOFT. You know when you have a favorite T-shirt just because of the soft fabric? It is just like that. And it is so adorable! I mean those ugly hospital gowns aren’t much competition but Pretty Pushers went above and beyond making these gowns SO CUTE! The halter top cut is so fun, and don’t worry your cleavage won’t be hanging out (another thing I was worried about). It covers me perfectly and I feel SO COMFORTABLE in it. I so look forward to wearing this when I deliver my next baby!

I have seen many labor gowns in my day and this is by far my favorite!

I think Pretty Pushers hospital pregnancy gowns are a must have for every Baby Delivery!

Things that are Brag Worthy: newgirl

Soft cotton fabric
Simple Slip on Halter
Adjustable Closure
Opening for Electronic Monitor placement
Low-Cut Back for epidural access
Disposable
Made in the USA
Stylish and cute
It has all the necessary openings the hospital will need and want
Doctors and Nurses love these gowns
Available in both one size (2-16) or Plus Size (18-26)
Makes a perfect baby shower gift
A must have for all pregnant mamas!

Visit www.babycarriersnmore.com to purchase a Pretty Pushers Gown today!

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Pretty Pushers Delivery Gown gets Bragging Rights!

One lucky Bragging Mommy Reader will win their choice of a pink or grey Pretty Pushers gown in their choice of either One Size (2-16 pre-pregnancy) or Plus Size (18-26 pre-pregnancy)!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit www.babycarriersnmore.com and tell us another product they sell you would love to have.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

3 entries-‘Like’ Pretty Pushers on Facebook.
3 entries- Follow PrettyPushers on Twitter.
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
1 entry- Visit Pretty Pushers and tell us your favorite product.
3 entries- Subscribe to The Bragging Mommy Emails (side-bar).
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe in reader.
10 entries- Blog about this giveaway linking to this post. Leave a link to your post.
1 entry per- Enter another current giveaway on our site, tell us which (no limit).
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway, include a link to this post, @prettypushers & @braggingmommy in your tweet.

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

You can enter this giveaway until July13th @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

*This is a sponsored post. I received a Pretty Pushers Gown for my review.

Heidi June 29, 2011 fashion, giveaway, maternity, mommy, review

Blurb Blog Book Review and Giveaway (10 Winners!) [CLOSED]

I enjoy keeping journals. I have my personal journal, my kids journals, and I also consider my personal blog as our ‘Family Journal’. Now that I have been blogging for over 4 years, I thought it was time to get me a hard copy. I needed a Blog Book ….I needed a BLURB blog book!!!

“Blurb is a company and a community that believes passionately in the joy of books – reading them, making them, sharing them, and selling them.

Holding a finished book with your name on the cover is a truly amazing feeling; it’s one of those experiences everyone should have. As software people, designers, and publishing professionals at the top of our game, we realized something both incredible and obvious:

there’s no good reason why it should take tons of time, technical skills, big bucks, or friends in high places to publish a book. Or a zillion books, for that matter.”

I was really excited to get started on making my blog into a book!! Blurb has a software that I installed onto my computer that allowed me to ‘SLURP’ my blog into the beginning of a book. My blog posts were put into templates and it was a quick & easy process. Blurb allowed me to make the book as simple or as difficult as I wanted it to be. I didn’t have a lot of time, so I basically let Blurb take the reigns. I did have to go through the whole book to make sure the correct pictures were with the correct post…..and a lot of them were off, but I got it figured out. It did take some time though because my book was so large.

I loved that I was able to choose exactly which posts I wanted to be in my book. I took some out because they weren’t really important or relevant to the family. It was as easy as unchecking a box. I added some colored pages & colored text & did some spell checking & after a few nights of working on it, I was ready to order. The shipping was quick & I really love my book (and so does everyone who sees it). I plan on doing one every year from now on. I can’t wait to have my own little library of ‘Blog Books’!!

Don’t have a blog? No worries. With Blurb, you can make Photo Books, Wedding books, cookbooks, and more!! They have a several different sizes available so you aren’t limited, & they have 3 different papers to choose from so you get exactly what you want. You also have the option of hard cover, soft cover, image wrap & more.

Things that are BRAG WORTHY:

Inexpensive
Blurb offers tutorials on how to make your book
Puts memories on the table instead of stuck on your computer
Accepts JPEG & PNG files
Fun to make

Blurb gets BRAGGING RIGHTS!!!

Blurb is generously giving away a Blurb book to 10 lucky readers (yes, I said 10 readers!!!) Winners will receive a $40 code to use for the purchase of their blog book, anything spent over that will be the winner’s responsibility.

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit BLURB and tell us something you learned AND what kind of book you will make.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

1entries-‘Like’ Blurb on Facebook.
2 entries- Follow Blurb on Twitter.
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
2 entries- Subscribe to The Bragging Mommy Emails (side-bar).
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe in reader.
5 entries- Blog about this giveaway linking to this post and blurb.com. Leave a link to your post.
1 entry per- Enter another current giveaway on our site, tell us which (no limit).
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway using @braggingmommy and @blurbbooks. Include a link to this post in your tweet.

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

You can enter this giveaway until July 13th @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

*I received a book from Blurb for the purpose of this review

Kim June 29, 2011 book, giveaway, review, website

Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

”Poop happens, but when it doesn’t, there’s Pedia-Lax. It’s the first line of products for regularity and constipation relief made just for kids by the No. 1 trusted laxative brand.

Moms told us they were frustrated with the limited selection of products available to help relieve their children’s constipation. So, as the nation’s No. 1 laxative brand, our Pedia-Lax professors of Poopology got to work and created this complete line of safe, easy-to-use products for regularity and constipation relief, specially dosed for children”

I always worry about my boys’ nutrition. Whether they’re getting all the nutrients they need, whether they are eating enough… and whether they are getting enough fiber and are “regular”. We’ve never had too many constipation problems, but every once in awhile I have to think how long it’s been since one of them went. Well now I know I’m doing all I can to make sure they stay regular by giving them Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies. They absolutely love them, so our only problem is that they can’t get enough. I love Fiber Gummies’ website too- their slogan is “Give poop a chance” LOVE it! =) They also have a poop quiz, which is super cute and fun. Fiber Gummies are great for all kids- those who need a lot of help in this department, or if you just want to ensure regularity in your child!

Things that are Brag Worthy:

Their website has tons of great information, and a $1 off coupon!
2 grams of fiber per gummy
Fiber helps promote regularity
Fiber in three Fiber Gummies equals 21 spears of asparagus, 2 boiled potatoes (with skin) or 1 cup of corn
Sugar-free, zero calories
Dentist approved
Xylitol, the sweetener used in Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies, may reduce the risk of cavities
Penguin-shaped gummies deliver fiber in a chewable, kid-friendly form
Gluten-free
Easy to incorporate into daily routine

Visit www.fibergummies.com to learn more about this great product!

Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies gets Bragging Rights!

Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies is generously giving away a bottle of Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies to one lucky reader!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies’ Everyday Regularity page and let us know your favorite tip!

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

1 entry- “Like” Pedia-Lax on Facebook
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
2 entries- Blog about this giveaway. Leave a link.
1 entry per day- Follow Pedia-Lax on Twitter & Tweet this giveaway using @fibergummies & @braggingmommy. You can use this:

#Win a bottle of Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies from @fibergummies & @braggingmommy! tinyurl.com/3dzwkkn {ends 7.13}

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

You can enter this giveaway until July 13 @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

*I received Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies for the purpose of this review

Joanna June 29, 2011 giveaway, review

Where All Good Deeds Are Rewarded ~ Check Out A Better World Facebook Game #Play4Good

“A Better World, a Facebook game that rewards players not just for in-game activities but also for real world acts of kindness and expressions of gratitude, has soared to more than 120,000 players.

Popular with women, A Better World, adds a new layer of social activity to casual gaming. Gameplay activities are designed to help everyone who participates feel better about themselves, be supportive of others and make positive choices in their everyday lives. Players also can play mini games with inspirational themes; personalize their own characters and spaces in the game and play with and care for virtual pets.”

I have been enjoying the A Better World Facebook Game. I love that it encourages so much positivity. I really think our world today is lacking that. Is is just me or are most people just waiting to get mad. I see it all the time when I’m out shopping, out to eat, or driving. People can be so short tempered and mean. Where is the common decency we once knew? It’s quite sad actually. That is why a game like this is so great. It encourages you to be helping, kind, and positive. In fact you are rewarded for these kinds of things. (Then you can shop!, LOL!, Who doesn’t love to shop).

“ToonUps hopes A Better World’s original approach could usher in a new genre of “do good gaming.” Research shows that being encouraged to think about things they are thankful for and doing activities that provide encouragement to others improves their mental, emotional and spiritual well being.“

“The game offers more than 15 locations for community members to explore, including the:

Department of Do Good – A place you can share real world good deeds you’ve performed and see what other members of the community have done

Gratitude Grotto – A charming area where you can reveal what you are thankful for and express your support for messages left by others

Sanctuary of Hope – A building where you can communicate your hopes and dreams and send encouragement to other players

Arcade – A play area with uplifting mini-games to enjoy alone or with friends

A new feature is the Better Pets Pet Shop, filled with adorable puppies, cute kittens or even a magical unicorn”

Play A Better World on Facebook today!

*I was given the opportunity to share my thoughts and opinions on A Better World. I received a gift card as a thank you for my participation. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Heidi June 29, 2011 dad, entertainment, games, mommy, teen

Timmy Time: Picture Day DVD Review

Timmy Rings The Bell For Back-To-School Learning Fun!

Timmy Time™: Picture Day Available On DVD June 28, 2011 From Lionsgate And HIT Entertainment

“The fun and learning never stops when Timmy, of new preschool series Timmy Time™, is ready for his close-up! The all-new Timmy Time: Picture Day!comes to DVD June 28, 2011 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment just in time for back to school. Whether struggling to keep clean for class photo day, celebrating the color blue, jamming with the school band or just playing with his pals, you know you’re in for a barnyard-sized bunch of hilarious antics and adventures with Timmy!

With slapstick humor yet not a single line of dialogue, Timmy Time follows a day in the life of a preschooler where they learn lessons about friendship and trial and error to which every young child can relate. Timmy Time airs weekdays (5:30 a.m. and 7:15 a.m. ET/PT) on Disney Channel’s Disney Junior programming block for kids ages 2-7 and their families, airing in more than 99 million U.S. homes.

Come along for a picture perfect day of fun with your preschool pal Timmy! The Oscar®-winning creators of “Wallace and Gromit™” and “Shaun the Sheep™” will make you smile in these fun-loving adventures featuring Timmy and his nursery friends. From good, clean fun during school photo day to drumming up music lessons, these wonderful stories filled with surprises will have you laughing in a flash. So snap up these five adorable tales with a big focus on fun!

“Snapshot Timmy” – It’s time for the class photo, but Timmy just cannot keep himself clean – jumping into puddles, kicking muddy footballs and getting splattered by jam sandwiches!

“Timmy Wants The Blues” -Timmy is having a blue day, collecting all the blue toys, blue cushions and blue paint. But when it comes to painting a picture, he quickly discovers he’s going to need more than just one color!

“Timmy Wants The Drum” – During a music lesson, Timmy decides he wants to play the drum! But when it is given to Yabba, and a triangle to Timmy, he goes about trying to get the drum for himself…

“Timmy’s Puppet” – On his way to preschool, Timmy’s homemade sock-puppet falls out of his backpack. Poor Timmy doesn’t realize until he arrives to see everyone playing with their own puppets! Crestfallen, he begins an unsuccessful search until Harriet offers to help him make a new one.

“Timmy The Builder” – Following Otus’s example, the class begin building dens for themselves. Otus offers to help Timmy with his, but Timmy’s pride gets the better of him – he can do this on his own! However, the little lamb soon has to admit that two heads may be better than one…”

DVD BONUS FEATURES · Timmy Time Sing-Along

Bug loves watching Timmy Time. Each episode is the perfect length to keep his attention span. He was excited when his new Timmy Time: Picture Day DVD arrived, and has watched it a ton since. It is a hit at our house!

Available online and in stores now!

Timmy Time: Picture Day gets Bragging Rights!

*I received Timmy Time: Picture Day on DVD for my review.

Heidi June 29, 2011 child, dvd, entertainment, toddler, tv show

Evenflo Summit Easy Walk-Thru Baby Gate Giveaway [CLOSED]

EVENFLO^® EASY WALK-THRU™ GATE

LOCKS FOR BABY; SWINGS WIDE FOR YOU

“The Evenflo® Summit Easy Walk-Thru™ Gate was designed with safety and convenience in mind. Evenflo baby safety gates are easy to install and won’t damage your door frame or walls. The gate features a color indicator to show whether the gate is securely locked to provide piece of mind and help keep your little ones safe.

Easy-to-install, pressure gate won’t damage door frames and is easily movable
Child-resistant, one-hand release – simply squeeze the handle and push down to open
Red/green indicator shows if the safety gate is properly locked
The gate door swings open in both directions for easy walk though
Extension included for openings up to 39″ wide
No tools required for installation
This gate is 32″ tall and adjusts from 29″ to 39″

See a list of stores and online retailers who sale this gate.

One lucky Bragging Mommy Reader will win an Evenflo Summit Easy Walk-Thru Gate!

evenflo-easy-walk-thru-metal-gate

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Evenflo and tell us another product you would love to have.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

3 entries-‘Like’ Evenflo Baby on Facebook.
3 entries- Follow Evenflobaby on Twitter.
5 entries- Register for the Evenflo Newsletter.
2 entries- Subscribe to the Evenflo Baby Channel on You Tube.
5 entries- Enter to win a Family Vacation here. Tell us the name you used to enter.
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
3 entries- Subscribe to The Bragging Mommy Emails (side-bar).
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe in reader.
10 entries- Blog about this giveaway linking to this post and evenflo.com. Leave a link to your post.
1 entry per- Enter another current giveaway on our site, tell us which (no limit).
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway. You can use this:

I just entered to #Win an Easy Walk-Thru Baby Gate from @evenflobaby & @braggingmommy / http://tinyurl.com/3h458bh / (ends 7/12)

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

You can enter this giveaway until July12th @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

*The giveaway item is being provided by Evenflo. As a member of the Evenflo Blogger Ambassador program I am being compensated for this post.

Heidi June 28, 2011 baby, giveaway, home, safety, toddler

Prince Lionheart weePOD Toilet Trainer Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

“We know that toilet training can be a long and painful process for some families. That is why we created our weePOD® toilet trainer: toddlers love the look and feel of the cushiony seat while parents love the security and ease of use.”

I have been so reluctant to start potty training in this house- I’ve just heard such horror stories from friends that I’ve been putting it off. When the weePOD toilet trainer arrived at our house, however, I got sort of excited to start! I love, love, LOVE that it just attaches to the toilet seat. This is so much easier than emptying any potty seat- they just do their “business” directly in the toilet, and flush it away with no extra clean up. I’ve seat other seat attachments, but what makes the weePOD different is how incredibly soft and cushiony it is. My son enjoyed using it, and even his 18-month-old little brother was interested. Kids always love to do things just like their parents. =) We’re not totally potty trained yet, but we’re definitely on the right path with our new Prince Lionheart weePOD potty training seat!

Things that are Brag Worthy:

Soft, cushiony seating surface is comfortable and gives baby a sense of security during training time
Removable cushion for easy cleaning
Fits most toilets with a twist of the dial
Built in splash guard
Comes in 3 colors

Visit Prince Lionheart to purchase one for yourself, and get potty training started the easy way in your house!

weePOD

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Prince Lionheart weePOD Toilet Trainer gets Bragging Rights!

Prince Lionheart is generously giving away a WeePod in winner’s choice of color to one lucky reader!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Sign up for the Prince Lionheart Newsletter

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

1 entry- “Like” Prince Lionheart on Facebook
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
2 entries- Blog about this giveaway. Leave a link.
1 entry per day- Follow Prince Lionheart on Twitter & Tweet this giveaway using @princelionheart & @braggingmommy. You can use this:

#Win a Prince Lionheart weePOD toilet trainer #giveaway from @princelionheart & @braggingmommy! http://tinyurl.com/3d4qye4
{ends 7.12}

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

You can enter this giveaway until July 12 @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

*I received a Prince Lionheart weePOD Toilet Trainer for the purpose of this review

Joanna June 28, 2011 giveaway, potty training, review

Funny Baby Onesies ~ Funsies Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

I am really excited to be having another baby and what better way to celebrate then with some super cute, funny onesies! I had a lot of fun looking through all of the funny onesies on funsies website that it was hard to choose! There are

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so many super cute ones! Some of the ones I really liked were the twin onesies (PB & J was my favorite), Chick magnet, and Naps Are for Babies!

I really love that this company was started by a Mom looking for something other than those plain white onesies! Just because your a baby doesn’t mean you can’t have fun and wear some cute baby clothes!

“My mom, dad, and grandfather like to say that this company was their idea but I think we all know where the inspiration came from. How about I start sitting on a chair and reading all day and we see how many new onesie ideas come

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popping into their heads then? Luckily for them I don’t mind sharing the credit.

Seriously, though, when I started the company all by myself I was just tired of the plain white Old Navy onesie. They were comfortable and everything but where was the fun, the excitement, the color? I shared my feelings with mom and dad by mercilessly staining, ripping, and soiling every white onesie that came near me. I still do the same thing with my Funsies but now it’s just for fun, not to make a point. Anyway, if you are another baby I’d love to hear how you like them (and how you get your parents to allow you on the computer desk). If you’re a regular human I’ll pass your message to my Ma-Ma and Da-Da. Enjoy the Funsies” (Funsies website)

I also love the really cute and fun animal onesies. Some of

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my favorites were the shark onesie, sheep and 4 different animals, so so cute!

Things that are Bragworthy:

No more plain white onesies!
Find some really cute, funny onesies that match your babies personality or mood.
I love how soft the onesies are!
Super cute onesies for everyone!!!

All of these FUNSIES can be purchased at www.funsies.com

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Funsies, cute, funny, adorable onesies gets Bragging Rights!

One lucky winner will get 3 Onesies of their choice!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Funsies and let us know one of the onesies you would choose if you won.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

3 entries- Like Funsies on Facebook
3 entries- Follow Funsies on Twitter
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
5 entries- Subscribe to The Bragging Mommy emails.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe in reader.
10 entries- Blog about this giveaway linking to this post. Leave a link to your post.
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway: including a link to his post, @funsies & @braggingmommy in your tweet.

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

You can enter this giveaway until July 12th @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

Briann June 28, 2011 baby, clothing, giveaway, review

Own Rizzoli & Isles The Complete First Season on DVD Now

I love how both Rizzoli & Isles are such strong and empowered women. While both have different points of view on some things and have come from different backgrounds, they always find a way to stay true to who they really are while doing their jobs. I think that they are great positive role models, showing that women can be strong, and remain true to who they are.

See the reason why Rizzoli & Isles won Best Drama at the 2010 Women’s Image Network Awards. The first season is now available on DVD: http://bit.ly/mt2Hpo.

*I have been hired by Warner Bros. WBWord division to promote Rizzoli & Isles Season One on DVD.

Heidi June 28, 2011 dvd, entertainment, mommy, tv show

Own Team Umizoomi on DVD Today

1, 2, 3… KIDS LEARN THAT MATH IS EVERYWHERE IN
NICKELODEON’S NEWEST EDUCATIONAL PRESCHOOL HIT

Fan-Favorite Series Makes Its DVD Debut on June 28, 2011

“They’re mini, they’re mighty and they’re built for math! Nickelodeon is bringing its hit animated preschool series that encourages tots to become strong and mighty to DVD with the debut of Team Umizoomi on June 28, 2011. The new DVD will take viewers on adventures to learn about numbers, patterns, and important early math concepts. The DVD contains four episodes, special features, a Math Mission card for on-the-go math problem solving and the guest voice of platinum-selling Jive recording artist Jordin Sparks. In addition, the DVD includes a one-year free subscription to Parents Magazine. Created by Nickelodeon Home Entertainment and distributed by Paramount Home Entertainment, the Team Umizoomi DVD will be available for the suggested retail price of $16.99.

Team Umizoomi features a tiny team of superheroes, Milli, Geo and Bot, who use their mighty math powers to help little kids solve big problems. The series combines action-adventure missions with an interactive math curriculum designed to help kids develop self-confidence in their math abilities and appreciate the many ways in which math shapes their world. The Umi Team is not complete without their Umi Friends (home viewers), who help the team along the way while practicing various math skills. Set to a soundtrack of preschool-friendly pop songs, the series is designed to build upon preschoolers’ conceptual understanding of math as they are exposed to core mathematical concepts like numbers, counting, computations, measurement, patterns and shapes.”

Team Umizoomi Episode Synopses
The Rolling Toy Parade
Nick has been picked to lead the Rolling Toy Parade going through Umi City. As he proudly makes his way to the Park, his lion toy tumbles down a hill, breaks apart and is foraged by park animals! Team Umizoomi must decode Mr. Squirrel’s doorbell pattern, search his tree trunk burrow for the missing wheels, embark on a high altitude chase with Mama Hawk and teach the Baby Hawks how to braid a pull string.

The Legend of the Blue Mermaid
Team Umizoomi discovers the statue of the Blue Mermaid (Jordin Sparks) while visiting the beach. According to legend, the mermaid with her sparkly blue scales once lived happily in the water by Umi City. But one day, a scheming squid named Squiddy captured the mermaid so that he could keep her sparkling light all to himself. The team must count, recognize shapes and identify patterns in order to rescue the Blue Mermaid from Squiddy’s secret sand castle. It won’t be an easy task as Squiddy will stop at nothing to keep Team Umizoomi from using their mighty math powers to save the day.

Kite Festival
Today is the Umi City Kite Festival and Jeannie is ready to fly her beautiful dragon kite. Out of nowhere, a strong gust of wind blows the kite out of her hands and scatters its colorful shaped pieces throughout Umi City. Luckily, Geo is a shape expert and the Team is positive they can find all the missing pieces. They rappel down city billboards, build a hot air balloon and search the tops of skyscrapers. Can they get Jeannie’s Dragon kite back together in time for the Festival?

Wild West Toy Train Show
Geo can’t wait to meet his friend Ethan at The Smokey Mountain Toy Train Show and see all the cool trains! As he gets ready to leave the Secret Headquarters, the Umi-Alarm sounds. Ethan’s golden ticket for the show has blown into the exhibit and landed somewhere at the top of Smokey Mountain! Team Umizoomi springs into action and hops a ride on the toy trains to the top of Smokey Mountain. Along the way, they use their math powers to get through Crystal Cave, cross Rumble Bridge, pan for gold and build a new engine with Geo’s super shapes.

Special Features:

The Blue Mermaid Shapes Under the Sea Game
Team Umizoomi Videos: Meet Geo, Meet Milli, & Meet Bot

We have a big fan of Umizoomi at our house. And the song gets stuck in all our heads “In a world that’s not to far away, Umi City. You can count on us to save the day, Umizoomi, Umizoomi…” Yep 3 year old Bug can’t get enough of Umizoomi so he was thrilled when this DVD arrived. I love that the focus is math and I am always surprised by how much he learns from watching Umizoomi. I highly recommend this DVD, your kids will love it!

Team Umizoomi is available online and in stores today!

Team Umizoomi gets Bragging Rights!

*I received Team Umizoomi on DVD for my review.

Heidi June 28, 2011 child, entertainment, review, toddler, tv show

A Great Way to Cover Your Cleavage ~ Cleava Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

“Compared to other products, Cleava is applied with snaps, no adhesives strips or dots are used with Cleava, therefore garments are not destroyed or an ugly red line left behind on the skin after the product is removed. Cleava applies quickly on or off with unlimited on/off uses and does not have restricted use as compared to other products that require the user to re-engineer the placements of adhesive and to continuously purchase adhesive dots or strips.

Many other intended products do not accomplish the same effect; other products cause discomfort in that they either creep up the body causing constant adjustments, too much heat, bulging, protruding visible knots and bumps or making the breasts look deformed. Cleava is more comfortable, cooler and convenient than wearing a tank top under a garment.”-Cleava Website

I was very excited when I cam across Cleava. Very often I find myself wearing a tank top to cover up too much cleavage on a shirt I am wearing. I want the cleavage to be covered but it is such a pain to have to wear a tank top underneath a shirt or dress (I hate all the layers). This is especially true in the summer time when wearing an extra shirt really makes me get uncomfortably hot. But the Cleava Snap to Bra Camisole is a great product that snaps around your bra and is only in the cleavage area! I found Cleava really easy to use, as you can see:

It stays in place and I don’t have to adjust it at all. I love that you can use Cleava to completely change the look of your outfit. Quickly switch from work attire to evening attire. I think this is a must have solution for Cleavage Cover Up!

Things that are Brag Worthy:

Cleava is a better way to cover up your cleavage.
You no longer have to have a full tank top under your shirt.
One size fits most.
It has many different snaps so you can get the fit that is best for you.
Great for summer.
So easy to put on and take off.
Available in a ton of colors and designs.
A must have for any girls wardrobe!

Right now Bragging Mommy Readers can get a $5 discount on purchases at www.Cleava.com! Just use code: BM5OFF at checkout.

Cleava gets Bragging Rights!

One lucky Bragging Mommy Reader will win a Red Cleava!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Cleava and tell us your favorite color for Cleava.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

3 entries- Like Cleava on Facebook.
3 entries- Follow Cleava on Twitter.
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
5 entries- Subscribe to The Bragging Mommy emails.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe in reader.
10 entries- Blog about this giveaway linking to this post. Leave a link to your post.
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway: including a link to his post, @cleava & @braggingmommy in your tweet.

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

You can enter this giveaway until July 11th @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

*I received products from Cleava for my review.

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Heidi June 27, 2011 clothing, fashion, giveaway, mommy, review, teen

Kimochis…Toys with Feelings Inside Review and Free App Download

Being a kid is hard work! Just like adults, they get angry, happy, frustrated, sad, lonely, etc., but they may not know how to express those feelings very well. As parents, we want our kids to have emotional stability, and if you are like me, you could probably use some help. Kimochis is the perfect toy to help teach your children about emotional intelligence & feelings!!

“Kimochi (KEY.MO.CHEE) means “feeling” in Japanese. Kimochis™ characters come with small pillows with a feeling (happy, sad, silly, brave…) printed on one side, and a corresponding facial expression on the other. A how-to Kimochis™ Feel Guide is also included introducing the personalities of each character and offering parents easy tips and engaging activities to help strengthen the parent-child connection and teach children to identify and express feelings in positive ways. Go on! Express yourself with Kimochis™ and boost your child’s emotional intelligence!”

Meet the Kimochis:

Huggtopus is all smiles and giggles. She is very affectionate and strong and sometimes gets a little carried away by her big friendly personality. Huggs always means well but has to learn about boundaries. Huggtopus comes with three feelings: Happy, Frustrated, Silly.

Cloud, like the weather can be a bit unpredictable. One day he is happy, the next he is mad and the next day, who knows, maybe sad or even happy again. Cloud can show his moods with a simple twist of his head. Cloud comes with three feelings: Happy, Sad, and Mad.

Cat is a decisive leader and can be very persuasive. Her bossiness can sometimes lead to confrontation and an occasional “cat fight.” Cat comes with five bandages to help heal hurt feelings and three feelings: Happy Curious and Cranky.

Lovey Dove is nurturing and patient and, like all doves, likes to keep the peace! Lovey comes with her baby, Turtle Dove, tucked gently underneath her wing and 3 feelings: Happy, Hopeful, and Proud.

BUG- Bug is a caterpillar who is afraid of change. He is thoughtful, cautious and has secret dreams of flying. When Bug is feeling brave you can spread his wings! When he is feeling afraid you can tuck his wings tuck away in the pocket on his back. Bug comes with three feelings: Happy, Brave, Left Out.

We received BUG & my kids love him! First of all, he is really cute & I am impressed by the quality. This isn’t a cheaply made toy! My girls were pretty curious about the feelings that came with BUG & they had fun playing with them. I told my girls that they can use BUG’s feelings to help let others know how they feel. While fun just as a stuffed animal, having BUG is a great way for me to introduce to my kids SEL (social-emotional learning). With 2 very head strong girls in our home (well 3 if you include me), we are going to need a lot more ‘feelings’ Winking smile .

Things that are BRAG WORTHY:

Cute as can be
Is a toy that is USEFUL
Helps children express their feelings
Comes with a 48 page Feel Guide with fun and easy activities
Extra ‘feelings’ available

Kimochis get BRAGGING RIGHTS!!

Right now Bragging Mommy Readers can get a FREE APP Download!The app is Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad!

Teach your child all about feelings with the new Kimochis® game — catch the good feelings and avoid the bad feelings! Available at the APP store for FREE!

Also, follow Kimochis on Facebook & Twitter!!

*I received a Kimochis for the purpose of this review

Kim June 27, 2011 child, review, toddler, toy

VoiceQuilt: Taking Personalized Gifts to a New Level

Buying gifts for the most important people in our lives such as parents, spouses, or best friends isn’t always easy. There is only a finite number of personalized merchandise in the market, and sometimes, tangible objects, no matter how expensive or “personal,” can’t fully express how one feels about these individuals.

Thankfully, there’s VoiceQuilt. Launched in 2006, VoiceQuilt is a unique service that allows people to compile personal recordings into a collage of voices that can be embedded in a nifty keepsake box. Imagine getting a music box that plays when a person opens it, but instead of tunes, they get to hear heartfelt messages from friends and family.

How it Works

The service works by providing customers with a unique toll-free number that they can give out to the loved ones of the recipient. Individuals will simply have to call in and record their message which can be in the form of a tribute, a toast, or a simple voicemail. Users can access these recordings through the VoiceQuilt Message Center wherein they can listen and select the ones to be included in the VoiceQuilt playlist. Once the playlist is complete, users can select a keepsake that plays and preserves the recordings. Their selection includes a variety of keepsake items, such as VoiceQuilt boxes, CDs, and flash drives. Individuals who are in a rush will be pleased to know that the recordings can also be downloaded as mp3s, or shared via Facebook.

There’s a VoiceQuilt for Every Occasion

The beauty of a VoiceQuilt lies in its versatility. Whether one is celebrating an anniversary, a birthday, a graduation, or attending a family gathering, VocieQuilt keepsakes can be tailor-fitted for just about any occasion or event. Is someone going through a difficult time in their life? A VoiceQuilt filled with kind messages can be a good source of hope.

According to VoiceQuilt founder Hope Flammer, “A VoiceQuilt helps the recipient understand how they’ve touched the lives around them… It is a wonderful excuse for a family or group to express their appreciation — to toast a loved one in honor of a happy event (birthday, anniversary, Father’s Day, etc.) or to cheer that loved one on during a difficult time (get well and end of life).”

Dealing with individuals with stage fright? A VoiceQuilt may be just the solution for them to deliver the perfect toast, since it allows them to practice and re-record their messages. Flammer furthered that, “By the same token, recorded voice messages really allow the recipient to hear and process those words.”

More than Just a Gift

Needless to say, a VoiceQuilt is so much more than simple token displayed around the house. It can serve as a box of preserved memories, as well as a beacon of encouragement. Flammer states that she couldn’t count the number of emails sent to her by gift recipients, who have VoiceQuilts with the voices of loved ones who passed away. “They thank me because they still have Mom or Dad’s voice, telling them that they love them….even though Mom or Dad is no longer living.” Flammer said.

When asked about the unique and heartwarming quality of a VoiceQuilt, Flammer mentioned that, “Voice conveys emotion, personality and presence in ways that photos and the printed word cannot. It’s like an individual’s finger print. I like to think that the sum of the voices is greater than the individual parts. There’s something about hearing all those toasts and favorite memories — one after the other – that is surprisingly powerful.”

About the author:
Francesca is a freelance writer and the founder of CredibleCopywriting.net. She has written for several organizations, including Internet startups, advertising agencies, and real estate companies, just to name a few. She has helped individuals and entities put their names and messages out there by producing quality works in the form of articles, web content, video scripts, and more. Touch base with her at: francesca.staana@gmail.com

*This is a sponsored post.

Heidi June 27, 2011 gifts

Big Time Rush Season One Volume Two Available on DVD Today

“Join America’s favorite four best friends from Minnesota as they continue their journey to stardom in the all-new DVD release Big Time Rush: Season One, Volume Two. Kendall, James, Carlos and Logan are back with more of their antics as they navigate making it big time! Come hang poolside at “The Palm Woods,” try to attract some ladies and, above all, sing, dance and try to have it all. The boys quickly learn that success truly comes with dedication, determination and friendship – but they never forget to enjoy the ride! This brand-new two-disc set includes the last seven episodes of the season with special features and guest appearances by Fabio, Jordin Sparks and Ed Begley, Jr. Created by Nickelodeon Home Entertainment and distributed by Paramount Home Entertainment, Big Time Rush: Season One, Volume Two hits shelves in a 2-disc DVD package on June 21, 2011, for the suggested retail price of $19.99.”

Big Time Rush: Season One, Volume Two Episode Synopses:

DISC 1:

Big Time Blogger

Gustavo wants to generate hype around Big Time Rush and sets up an important interview with Deke, a blogger who can make or break a career. In an unfortunate turn of events, the boys end up kidnapping Deke.

Big Time Terror

When Gustavo’s mansion floods, Mom invites him to stay at the Crib. In order to get him to move out, the boys take advantage of “paranormal activity” at the Palm Woods and convince Gustavo the place is haunted.

Big Time Dance

The Palm Woods school is organizing its first dance and Big Time Rush secures the perfect location – Gustavo’s studio. Now in addition to finding the perfect date, the guys must rehearse for their first live performance at the dance.

Big Time Sparks

Jordin Sparks is staying at the Palm Woods while she records a new song with Gustavo. When the guys are told to stay away from her because they are bad luck, they try to prove their skeptics wrong and Jordin gets stuck in the middle.

DISC 2:

Big Time Fever

Something odd is going on! Logan has lost his uptight edge, Carlos wants to be one of the Jennifers and James can’t stop spray tanning. It’s all because of Hollywood Fever, but there is no known cure. Kendall is left to figure out a solution and save his friends from themselves.

Big Time Video

The boys get to make their first music video! In all the excitement, they go overboard and promise roles to all the kids at the Palm Woods.

Big Time Concert

On the eve of their first album release, Griffin dashes the boy’s music dreams and they return home to Minnesota. Unwilling to accept defeat, the guys decide to take control and plan their first big concert with Gustavo’s help.

Special Features:

House of Anubis Pilot Episode
Behind the Scenes
Throwing Cam
Ride to Mansion
Stairs
Lorenzo Lamas

Big Time Rush Season One Volume Two is Available online and in stores Today!

*I received Big Time Rush Season One Volume Two for this post.

Heidi June 27, 2011 dvd, entertainment, teen, tv show, tween

Change the Look of Your Bedroom with Platform Beds

Are you looking for a great bed for your room or your child’s room? Look no further than MorePlatformbeds.com! They have a great selection of platform beds to choose from. This Bookcase Platform Storage Bed would be perfect for an adult or teenager bedroom. I love the bookcase headboard and having the storage drawers would be so nice.

Or if your looking for your children’s room this Kids Twin 4 Piece Bedroom Set with Bookcase Headboard is a great choice.

Of course once you have a bed you are going to need bedding. They also have a great selection of bedding as well! I have my eye on this Arctic Waves Duvet Cover for our guest bedroom.

No matter what your bedroom decor needs are, MorePlatformbeds.com has such a great selection I am sure you will find everything you want there!

Heidi June 27, 2011 decor, home

Brag Worthy Summer ~ Bumbleride Flite Stroller Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

I am a Bumbleride fan for sure! You can read my review of the Bumbleride Indie Twin Double Stroller from last year. Bumbleride Strollers are such a high quality that I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the Bumbleride Flite. Since I just have 3 year old Bug a compact Umbrella Stroller is all I really need (for now at least).

“Flite is everything you love about Bumbleride in a small package. Blending all the style, comfort and safety features found in our other models; the 13lb. Flite travels light and complete. Built on a lightweight aluminum frame, Flite features a multi- adjusting backrest, footrest and offers versatile car seat compatibility. Its unique shape folds ultra- slim to be easily stowed in the tightest of spaces. Bumbleride Flite allows you to go where you want without sacrificing the functionality that you need.”-Bumbleride

When it arrived I was pleasantly surprised out how lightweight it is. It weighs in at only 13 lbs! That combined with the carry strap, it is a dream for me to get in and out of the car and even to just carry. It also folds really compactly and is easy to fold. I love that once you fold it it locks automatically so I don’t have to fumble around trying to lock it.

Another thing that I was pleasantly surprised about was how much room their is in the seat and under the canopy. Bug is a tall 3 and a half year old and easily fits under the canopy with room to spare. Also, the sun canopy is SPF 45! So not only does it keep your baby cool, but it is protecting him as well. The 5 point harness is really easy to unlatch with just a push of a button. This is so nice for me as I don’t like it when it’s really hard to unlatch, but it does mean that your toddler can easily unlatch it as well.

I was impressed with the recline of the seat, it isn’t flat but it is definitely enough for your child to take a nap comfortably while your out and about. It is a strap recline and you can easily do it with one hand. There is no set limits on the recline so you can do anywhere from straight up to all the way laying down. It also has an adjustable footrest with two positions, down or up. This is a nice feature for a napping toddler to be more comfortable.

I love that you can access the basket from the front. So even when the seat is fully reclined and Bug is asleep I can get what I need in and out of the basket. It isn’t the biggest basket, but it is a good size for an Umbrella stroller and I can fit a medium sized diaper bag or purse under there.

It comes with a universal car seat adapter bar, so you can truly use it from birth and up. (Click here to view a list of compatible car seats.)

Another great thing about this stroller is that the handles are nice and tall, making it much more comfortable for my tall husband to push. While still being very comfortable for me (I am short!). So it’s a win win for us both. I also like how it is really easy to maneuver and has lockable front wheels for the rougher terrain you may encounter.

The Bumbleride Flite is a great High End Single Stroller and I highly recommend it!

Things that are Brag Worthy:

For infancy and up
Five-point safety harness
Dual front and rear suspension
Reclining backrest
Adjustable footrest
Cargo basket
SPF 45 sun canopy
Lightweight aluminum frame
Compact fold
Carrying handle

You can see more info on the Flite as well as other Bumbleride Strollers at www.Bumbleride.com.

Bumbleride Flite gets Bragging Rights!

One lucky Bragging Mommy Reader will win a Bumbleride Flite Stroller!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entries-

1 entry- Visit Bumbleride and tell us another Stroller they make besides the Flite.
1 entry- Follow The Bragging Mommy publicly via Google Friend Connect.

BOTH Mandatory Entries must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do BOTH of the mandatory entries will be deleted.

3 entries- Like Bumbleride on Facebook.
3 entries- Follow Bumbleride on Twitter.
3 entries- Join the Bumbleride Mailing List.
1 entry- Tell us what you love most about the Bumbleride Flite.
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
5 entries- Subscribe to The Bragging Mommy emails.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via: Facebook, Twitter, subscribe in reader.
10 entries- Blog about this giveaway linking to this post and bumbleride.com. Leave a link to your post.
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway, you can use this:

#Win a @bumbleride Flite Stroller from @braggingmommy! / http://tinyurl.com/6z2vogx / (ends 7/8)

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

You can enter this giveaway until July 8th @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 to enter. This giveaway is open to anywhere in the US and Canada.

*I received a Bumbleride Flite for my review.

Heidi June 24, 2011 baby, child, giveaway, outdoor, review, stroller, summer

Brag Worthy Summer ~ Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Single Electric Breast Pump Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

When I was pregnant with my daughter I decided that I wanted to try out Breastfeeding once she was born. I never really thought much about it, but the more I did the more I wanted to see if it would work for me. It wasn’t the best experience for me because my milk never came in very well and even after pumping (with a not so great pump) I couldn’t get any milk!

So when we got pregnant with this one I decided I wanted to try it out again. I have heard and read that a lot of times your milk comes in better the second time around. One thing I knew I wanted to get was a better breast pump.

I was so excited to hear that I was getting the Tommee Tippee Single Electric Breast Pump to review! I haven’t tried it out yet because well I’m still pregnant BUT I am loving all of the great features that it has!

I really love that the bottle hooks right up to the pump and is easy to transfer right to baby’s mouth! It also comes with some really great storage containers incase you want to freeze or refrigerate your milk.

“Intuitively designed for easier and more comfortable expressing. Researched and developed by Moms and breastfeeding experts. Unique expressables system lets you express, protect, prepare and feed in one easy system, no transferring, no waste” (Tommee Tippee website)

I also love that it is perfect for in the home or on the go. It can also be an Electric or Manual Pump- you get to choose!

Tommee Tippee also has other really great Breast Feeding Products. I really like the Closer to Nature Breast Care Starter Pack and the Closer to Nature Milk Storage Pots X 6 plus tray!

The Breast Care Starter Pack includes:

“Pack contains 36 x disposable breast pads, 2 x washable breast pads and 1 x reusable bag. Washable breast pads are super soft, absorbent and quick drying. Disposable breast pads are slimline with a contoured shape for ultimate discretion. ( Tommee Tippee Website)

Well if your like me I could only nurse for about 2 months because Leah wasn’t gaining any weight and my milk didn’t ever really come in. SO I had to end up supplementing then resorting to bottles all the way. I really like that Tommee Tippee has both options.

They have a great selection of bottle feeding baby products that I am excite

d to try out. Their bottles I have heard from lots of my friends are awesome! They have a great selection of bottles for boys and girls, sensitive tummy’s and more!

View Full Album

Nipple mimics natural feel, flex and movement of breastfeeding
Allows for easy transition between breast and bottle
Wide neck nipple for easier latch on
Anti-colic, anti-gas, advanced easi-vent™ valve

Things that are Bragworthy:

Tommee Tippee has a great selection of Breast Feeding and Bottle Feeding Products
Breast Pump can be Manual or Electric- Your choice!
Their bottles make an easy transition from breast to bottle
Pumps are easy to clean and easy to assemble
Four suction levels allow for efficient expression, controlled by mom to suit her needs and comfort. Ideal for moms that regularly express
Comfortable to use

All of these great items mentioned can be purchased at www.tommeetippee.us/

The Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Single Electric Breast Pump gets Bragging Rights!

One Lucky Winner will receive a Closer to Nature Single Electric Breast Pump from Tommee Tippee!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Please Visit Tommee Tippee and let us know your favorite product.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

3 entries- Like Tommee Tippee on Facebook
3 entries- Follow Tommee Tippee on Twitter
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
5 entries- Subscribe to The Bragging Mommy emails.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe in reader.
10 entries- Blog about this giveaway linking to this post and tommeetippee.com. Leave a link to your post.
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway, be sure to include a link to this post & @braggingmommy and @tommeetippee.

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

*I received a Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Single Electric Breast Pump for my review.

Briann June 24, 2011 accessories, baby, feeding, giveaway, mommy, nursing, review

Brag Worthy Summer ~ Chuck E.Cheese’s Review and Family Guest Passes Giveaway (3 Winners!)

Where a Kid can be a Kid!

When I think of Chuck E Cheese’s, I think of a place where the kids LOVE to go and play. I mean every time we pass our local Chuck E. Cheese’s Bug see’s the sign and says I want to go to Chuck E. Cheese’s. He is only 3 and can’t read yet, but he knows it is Chuck E. Cheese’s!

We were so lucky to be sent a Guest pass to visit our local Chuck E. Cheese’s. We invited my nephews (ages 11 & 9) to go along with us for the fun. The guest pass gave us a large pizza, 4 drinks and 30 tokens. My husband also ordered some wings and I got the salad bar. The salad bar was very good with a large variety of fresh items. My husband enjoyed his wings, and the whole family gobbled up the hot and fresh pizza.

Before we left the house I signed up for the Chuck E. Cheese’s Email Club and I was immediately emailed coupons to use on our visit. One of the coupons was buy 60 tokens get 35 free. And it was just $15. So the kids had over 100 tokens to play with. They were so entertained and I loved the variety of games they have. The older kids were able to play video games, air hockey, ski ball and more. There were also games that were great for 3 year old bug, like a spider stomp, and animal feeding game. They even had little rides for him The best part is all rides and games are just one token!

Once they were done playing games they all cashed in their tickets for some fun toys!

Another great thing is the playground. It’s free! And there is always music and entertainment on the tv’s and stage. So even when your out of tokens the kids can still be entertained. Of course a visit to Chuck E. Cheese’s wouldn’t be complete without meeting Chuck E. Cheese himself! The kids were so excited when he came out to meet them.

Chuck E. Cheese’s also has great kids Birthday Parties. I have attended a few in my day and they are great. I’m sure we will be having one there for Bug soon since he loves being there so much.

Chuck E. Cheese’s is a great place to go for family entertainment and fun! You can find your nearest location at www.Chuckecheese.com! And be sure to print of coupons before you go!

Chuck E. Cheese’s gets Bragging Rights!

3 lucky Bragging Mommy Readers will win a Guest Pass to Chuck E. Cheese’s! The pass will give you a Large Pizza, 4 drinks, and 30 tokens.

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Chuck E. Cheese’s website and tell us something you learned there.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

3 entries- Like Chuck E. Cheese on Facebook.
3 entries- Sign up for the Chuck E. Cheese’s Email Club.
3 entries- Follow chuckecheese on Twitter.
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
5 entries- Subscribe to The Bragging Mommy emails.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe in reader.
10 entries- Blog about this giveaway linking to this post. Leave a link to your post.
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway: including a link to his post, @chuckecheese & @braggingmommy in your tweet.