GIVEAWAY - $25 GC CafePress.com Personalized Gifts! (ENDS 6/5)

CafePress.com is the leader in on-demand printing with the world's largest selection of artist-based t-shirts, clothing, accessories, housewares and gifts.  There are over 300 million unique products to choose from and you can even make your own designs with their easy online tool.  CafePress allows you to personalize and customize your products.  Their top departments include posters, iPhone 5 cases, t-shirts, greeting cards, hoodies, invitations, shower curtains, wall clocks, pajamas, coffee mugs, bedding and throw pillows.

With the new Iron Man 3 movie just recently released, CafePress offers a wide variety of Iron Man 3 merchandise.  If you're a big Iron Man fan, you must check out their Iron Man shirts and Iron Man sweatshirts and hoodies.

WIN IT!  CafePress.com has generously offered a $25 gift certificate to their online store to a lucky HSUper Parents reader!

Mandatory Entry - Remember to leave your comment on this blog post below (do not comment in Rafflecopter). 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway open to US and Canada and ends on 06/05/2013 at 11:59pm PST.  A winner will be chosen with random.org.  The winner will be notified by email and posted on this blog.  Winners will have 48 hours to reply to my email or a new winner will be chosen.  Good luck!

Disclaimer:  This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of myself.  Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.  However, for review purposes, I do accept and will keep the products reviewed.    

Wholesale Halloween Costumes - Universal Studios Lil Frankie Infant/Toddler Costume Review

WholesaleHalloweenCostumes.com is your year-round source for adult costumes, kids costumes, accessories and makeup, masks, wigs, hats, props and decorations.  They offer over 4,000 different costumes and accessories in the latest styles and from the hottest licenses including, Disney, Marvel, Nickelodeon, Star Wars, Barbie and many others.  In addition, they carry a huge selection of seasonal holiday costumes, not just for Halloween.  Wholesale Halloween Costumes offer costumes at wholesale prices.

I have found the perfect costume for Baby Hsu for Halloween 2013 - Universal Studios Lil Frankie Infant/Toddler Costume!  The two piece costume is available in sizes Infant (suitable for children up to 12 months old) and Toddler (suitable for children up to 4 years old - I would say 3 years old to be on the safe side).  The top piece is a pullover that consists of a padded block head piece (with nuts and bolts on the sides) attached to the coat and shirt.  The green coat, detailed with patches and scars, is attached to the dark brown shirt inside with a zipper in the middle that stops about right at the chest.  The dark brown trousers feature a patch on the left leg with attached shoe covers.  There are strips of elastics with velcro underneath to secure the shoe cover.  Trick-or-treating during the night here in Southern California can get pretty chilly and I just love how the head piece serves as a hat to keep Baby Hsu's head warm.  

I can't wait to take our little Frankenstein trick-or-treating in Wholesale Halloween Costumes' Universal Studios Lil Frankie Costume (HSUper Parents-Approved)!

Stay current with Wholesale Halloween Costumes on Facebook and @WHCostumes on Twitter.

BUY IT!  The Universal Studios Lil Frankie Infant/Toddler may be purchased for $19.90 on their site.

Disclaimer:  This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of myself.  Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.  However, for review purposes, I do accept and will keep the products reviewed.

More Entries to GIVEAWAY - $30 GC ALuckyHorseshoe.com

There will be more entries to the $30 GC ALuckyHorseshoe.com Vinyl Wall Art Decals Giveaway.  I just realized you can vote for Sandra Spearman (EF Casting Call) daily!  So, you will be allowed to earn 1 point each day you vote until 01/18/13.

Effective 01/07/13, I would need you to verify your vote in the Rafflecopter form.  Before you click the "vote" button, also checkmark the "Share to my wall".  Once you have voted, go to your Facebook page.  Locate that post and click on the timestamp.  Copy the url and paste into the Rafflecopter form.

https://apps.facebook.com/efcastingcall/contests/308699/voteable_entries/63450937

Good luck Sandra!

GIVEAWAY (2 EASY ENTRIES) - $30 GC ALuckyHorseshoe.com Vinyl Wall Art Decal! (ENDS 1/18)

ALuckyHorseshoe.com is a Washington-based company, where they donate a portion of their proceeds to horse rescue organizations, that creates artistic and quality vinyl wall art and decals. Their collection of vinyl wall decals include horse, kids, quotes, nature, transportation, sports and other decorative images.  The decals may be used to decorate any room in your house, including laptops, binders, desks, cars, and anything you like.

ALuckyHorseshoe.com's vinyl wall art decals are easy to install (without damaging your walls) and add character to your room (HSUper Parents-Approved)!

If you are not interested in winning the $30 gift certificate but would like to help, please kindly vote for "EF Casting Call - Sandra Spearman" (click on link below).  Thank you!

https://apps.facebook.com/efcastingcall/contests/308699/voteable_entries/63450937

WIN IT!  ALuckyHorseshoe.com has generously offered a $30 gift certificate to their online store to a lucky HSUper Parents reader!

Mandatory Entry - Remember to leave your comment on this blog post below (do not comment in Rafflecopter).

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway open to US and Canada and ends on 01/18/2013 at 11:59pm PST.  A winner will be chosen with random.org.  The winner will be notified by email and posted on this blog.  Winners will have 48 hours to reply to my email or a new winner will be chosen.  Good luck!

Disclaimer:  This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of myself.  Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.  However, for review purposes, I do accept and will keep the products reviewed.   

GIVEAWAY - SwaddleDesigns Fitted Flannel Crib Sheet! (ENDS 1/23)

SwaddleDesigns products are known for their great quality and long lasting value that moms and babies love and enjoy for years.

SwaddleDesigns is also well respected by the medical community – often recommended by pediatricians, nurses, doulas, newborn care instructors.

SwaddleDesigns was founded by Lynette Damir, RN, Designer and Mom of two in 2002. SwaddleDesigns is known for their premium quality fabric, fabulous colors and prints, and their innovative 123 Swaddle® pictorial instructional label sewn to the edge of their Swaddling blankets that makes learning how to swaddle so easy.

SwaddleDesigns Fitted Flannel Crib sheets provide a cozy texture that so many babies love. Many moms state they think their baby sleeps better on a flannel sheet. Our soft sheets are made from lightweight, breathable, premium cotton flannel, and they are available in a variety of designer prints and colors. Machine wash warm, tumble dry low and they look great wash after wash. Made in USA!

SwaddleDesigns Fitted Flannel Crib Sheets are one of my favorites to keep Baby Hsu cozy and warm from the wintry weather!  Their designs are all so chic and stylish.  The crib sheet is sized for a standard crib mattress at 28" x 52".  The quality and soft crib sheet is made of 100% natural cotton fibers with premium elastic around the entire bottom edge.  I've had another one of their fitted crib sheet in a different design for over a year and the elastic is still in tip top shape.  I would advise to always follow the instructions when washing to prevent shrinkage.  Below is a photo of Baby Hsu lying on his new SwaddleDesigns Fitted Crib Sheet in Kiwi Triplets Paisleys.  I just love the colors and design of this pattern.  This pattern may also be used for a baby girl's bedding.  SwaddleDesigns is among the very few to offer such premium and trendy fitted flannel crib sheets.  

SwaddleDesigns Fitted Flannel Crib Sheet is a must-have for parents and makes a terrific gift (HSUper Parents-Approved)!

BUY IT!  SwaddleDesigns Fitted Flannel Crib Sheet - Kiwi Triplets Paisleys may be purchased on their site for $32.00.

WIN IT!  SwaddleDesigns has generously offered winner's choice of their Fitted Crib Sheet to a lucky HSUper Parents reader!

Mandatory Entry - Remember to leave your comment on this blog post below (do not comment in Rafflecopter).

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway open to US and Canada and ends on 01/23/2013 at 11:59pm PST.  A winner will be chosen with random.org.  The winner will be notified by email and posted on this blog.  Winners will have 48 hours to reply to my email or a new winner will be chosen.  Good luck!

Disclaimer:  This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of myself.  Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.  However, for review purposes, I do accept and will keep the products reviewed.  

Happy 2013!

Wishing you all a blessed and happy new year!

QUICK GIVEAWAY - $50 GC Shutterfly! (ENDS 11/19)

With Halloween that has just passed and Thanksgiving coming around, I am totally excited for Christmas - jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock!  One of my favorite things about Christmas is taking a family photo and making Photo Christmas Cards to share with loved ones.  Depending on the design and color theme of the card, I coordinate the family's outfit to match the card's theme.  Shutterfly has a wonderful new collection of Christmas Cards this year from traditional colors and embellishments to merry and bright colors for a modern feel.  They also feature religious based cards and cards that showcase your pets.  Shutterfly has a variety of cards to fit your style.   
   

This year, I think I might just go with the Pretty Pattern Christmas Card (1st photo shown above on the 2nd row).  I love the gorgeous flowers in the background that display the Christmas colors of red and green.  The Pretty Pattern is available in colors green or red and in formats 4x8, 5x7 or 5x5.  The flat stationary card is printed on a 110 lb. premium cardstock with a finish of matte or glossy.  The card allows for one photo to be uploaded and the back side may also be personalized with photos and text.  Blank white envelopes are included, but Shutterfly does offer mail options.  I can't wait to receive my bright-orange Shutterfly package!

I can always count on Shutterfly for an elegant and festive photo Christmas card (HSUper Parents-Approved)!

BUY IT!  The Pretty Pattern Christmas Card may be purchased for as low as $1.39 per card.  Remember to visit Shutterfly's Special Offers page http://www.shutterfly.com/special-offers for current discounts and savings.

WIN IT!  Shutterfly has generously offered a promo code for $50 off order of $50 or more (excluding tax and shipping and cannot be combined with any other promos) to a lucky HSUper Parents reader!  The promo code expires on 12/14/12 with no extensions.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Giveaway open to worldwide and ends on 11/20/2012 at 12:01am EST.  A winner will be chosen with random.org.  The winner will be notified by email and posted on this blog.  Winners will have 48 hours to reply to my email or a new winner will be chosen.  Good luck!

Disclaimer:  This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of myself.  Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.  However, for review purposes, I do accept and will keep the products reviewed. 

Happy Halloween 2012!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN 2012!

Baby Hsu in Popeye Toddler Costume from HalloweenWay.com

Mixie - Formula-Mixing Baby Bottle Review

Mixie Baby LLC, a family owned and operated company based in Washington, recently launched its signature formula-mixing baby bottles - Mixie.  The dad-invented baby formula bottles provide a convenient solution to the challenge of formula feeding on-demand and on-the-go.   

Mixie is a one-of-a-kind formula baby bottle that can easily be prepared in advance and mixed later.  The BPA, phthalates, and PVC-free bottles are available in 2 sizes - 4 oz. and 8 oz.  The 4 oz. Mixie includes a slow (stage 1) nipple and the 8 oz. Mixie includes a steady (stage 2) nipple.  The fast (stage 3) nipple is sold separately.  All parts are dishwasher and microwave safe.  Mixie is ideal for childcare providers, daycare centers, busy lifestyles and on-the-go feeding. 

To Fix Mixie

1. Add formula to compartment, tap compartment gently on hard surface to settle powder, and press the lid (agitator) to seal the compartment shut.
2. Twist the compartment back into the bottom of the bottle.
3. Fill the bottle with water and twist the nipple and cap back on.
4. Push the button on the bottle bottom to release the powder.
5. Shake until powder blends smoothly with water.  The formula compartment lid works as a free-floating agitator to mix the formula thoroughly to avoid any clumping.

Mixie will definitely come in handy when we travel with an infant (HSUper Parents-Approved)!

Stay current with Mixie Baby on Facebook and @mixiebottle on Twitter.

BUY IT!  The Mixie (8 oz.) may be purchased for $21.95 at specialty retailers nationwide in-store or online.  

Disclaimer:  This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of myself.  Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.  However, for review purposes, I do accept and will keep the products reviewed. 

HalloweenWay.com - Toddler Popeye Costume Review

HalloweenWay has helped consumers find the perfect Halloween costume, mask and accessory at their local retail stores for about 10 years.  In 2009, they opened their online store to allow the convenience for people to shop online right in their homes.  HalloweenWay has a lot to offer - adult couples and group costumes, men's costumes, women's costumes, seasonal costumes, plus size costumes, kids costumes (from baby to tween), Halloween decorations, props and party supplies, and a whole bunch of accessories including hats, wigs and masks.

Halloween is just around the corner and Baby Hsu will be dressed in the Popeye Toddler Costume.  Ironically, Baby Hsu recently started to become a picky eater, picking out the spinach from his bowl and flicking it across the room (trying to make a statement that he does not like green veggies).  The polyester costume comes with a white sailor's hat, a black shirt with a red collar, blue pants, yellow belt, and a pair of padded muscle arms.  It is an officially licensed Popeye product.  This year, Baby Hsu will get to wear his costume several times - on Halloween day, singing Halloween songs at a senior center, pumpkin patch, and at a playdate with all the kiddies dressed in their costumes.  Baby Hsu is ready for some trick-or-treating as Popeye the sailor man - woot woot (whistle sound)!

At HalloweenWay, I can find awesome costumes to dress up the entire family, even our house (HSUper Parents-Approved)!

Stay current with HalloweenWay.com on Facebook and @halloweenway on Twitter.

BUY IT!  The Popeye Toddler Costume may be purchased for $27.99 on HalloweenWay.com.  Free shipping is offered for purchase of $100 or more.

Disclaimer:  This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of myself.  Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.  However, for review purposes, I do accept and will keep the products reviewed. 

aden + anais - For the Birds - Owl Cozy Sleeping Bag Review

The brilliant mom-preneur Raegan Moya-Jones created aden + anais, an Australian inspired company that specializes in muslin swaddles.  Cotton muslin is the world's oldest, most cherished loosely-woven cotton fabric with weaves to allow air to circulate around the baby's body.  Today, aden + anais has brought the legacy of 100% breathable cotton muslin and transpired into a line of breathable and fashion forward products, which has been spotted being used by many celebrities and parents.  In addition to their award-winning swaddles, aden + anais carries sleeping bags, bibs and burp cloths, towel and washcloth sets, mum + bub skin care, dream blankets, issie - security blankets, serenity star, changing pad covers, crib sheets and their very own swaddle love book!

Sleep Safety Tips from CJ Foundation for SIDS (proudly sponsored by aden + anais)

1. Always lay your baby to sleep face up
2. Remove all loose bedding, stuffed animals, bumpers and pillows from crib
3. Don't let your baby get too hot
4. Control room temperature where baby is sleeping
5. Consider using a fan to increase air circulation in baby's room
6. Lay your baby to sleep in an approved crib, on a firm-fitting mattress
7. Don't share sleep surfaces
8. Don't smoke while pregnant and never smoke near your infant
9. Create a healthy lifestyle for you and your baby
10. If possible, breastfeed your baby
11. Offer your baby a pacifier at all sleep times
12. Put your baby on his or her tummy to play when your baby is awake and supervised 

Durable and gentle.  Soft and strong.  Breathable and comfortable.  Time-tested and pure. 

I simply adore aden + anais For the Birds - Owl Cozy Sleeping Bag!  This is one of their newer designs.  The cozy sleeping bags consist of four layers of 100% cotton muslin designed to be worn over a baby's pajamas.  Muslin's light, open weave allows a baby's body temperature to regulate itself naturally helping to prevent overheating, which is one of the top causes of SIDS.  Each sleeping bag zips from the bottom, which allows for easy diaper changes.  With each wash, the sleeping bag gets softer and softer.  Baby Hsu has been kept warm through the chilly winter with aden + anais cozy sleeping bags.  Without it, I don't think he would've been able to cozily sleep through the nights.  He is now 2 years old and it is just too bad that he has already outgrown the largest size.  But, I will be saving this sleeping bag for our 2nd child (one day).

For a baby's safe and cozy sleep, aden + anais cozy sleeping bags are a must-have for parents (HSUper Parents-Approved)!

Stay current with aden + anais on Facebook and @adenandanais on Twitter.

BUY IT!  aden + anais For the Birds - Owl Cozy Sleeping Bag may be purchased for $45.00 on their website.

Disclaimer:  This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of myself.  Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.  However, for review purposes, I do accept and will keep the products reviewed.  

GIVEAWAY - $50 GC Minted - Art, Stationary, Invitations and More! (CLOSED)

Minted is an online store that consists of a global community of independent graphic designers that offer the best of their designs in the form of paper goods.  Their goal is to use technology to allow the work of great designers from all over the world to be discovered by the community and to create a place where designers can get exposure and build their careers.  Minted holds monthly design challenges for all graphic designers to enter and the Minted community selects the best designs.  Winning designers earn cash prizes, a place in the Minted collection, and commissions on all sales of their designs.  Minted believes in using fine paper stock, rich inks, and crisp printing methods.  

"Our purpose in life is to uncover exceptional design from all over the world and bring this to savvy consumers who won't accept anything else."

One of my favorites from the Minted collection is the Stache + Kiss Thank You Cards.  The 4.25" x 5.5" flat-printed, folded card is available in 3 colors - Creme, Tuxedo and Pure White.  Both lines on the card may be personalized to whatever you would like it to say and a free digital proof is offered per item ordered.  The thank you cards are printed on Minted's exclusive Signature Cover paper and come with blank white envelopes.  Penelope Poppy from Pittsburgh, PA is the designer behind this fun and quirky thank you card.  

Minted also has quite a few holiday cards selection for the upcoming holiday season (http://www.minted.com/holiday-photo-cards).  It's never too early to start personalizing your Christmas cards.      

I appreciate being a part of the Minted community that offers unique art and paper goods created by Indie designers (HSUper Parents-Approved)!

BUY IT!  Minted's Stache + Kiss Thank You Cards may be purchased on their site for a minimum of 25 cards for $76.00.

WIN IT!  Minted has generously offered a $50 gift certificate to their store to a lucky HSUper Parents reader!

Mandatory Entry - Remember to leave your comment on this blog post below (do not comment in Rafflecopter). 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway open to worldwide and ends on 09/19/2012 at 12:01am EST.  A winner will be chosen with random.org.  The winner will be notified by email and posted on this blog.  Winners will have 48 hours to reply to my email or a new winner will be chosen.  Good luck!

Disclaimer:  This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of myself.  Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.  However, for review purposes, I do accept and will keep the products reviewed.