A few weeks ago Forrest was starting to see some floaters in his eyes. Me being the worrywort that I am decided to go online and search Dr. Google (which, by the way, is never a good idea). After “Hmming” and “Oh-my” over possible scenerios, I thought, “What if he just needs a new pair of eyeglasses?”

That day we went to a local “walk-in” eye glass clinic in Central Florida and we got in to see the Eye Doctor right away (well — after a small wait). I had to learn to manage Carli who was not content sitting down. She had wanted to play with the kids toys in the waiting area but playing with public toys creeps me out so I kept holding her back (probably a big mistake and cost me more energy than it was worth). After we got in to see the doctor, it was fortunate that all he needed was a new pair of prescription glasses. Like me, Forrest does a lot of reading (though his is computer related due to work) and he just had a slight astigmatism.

I think the most fun part of visiting an eye clinic and seeing an eye doctor is being able to pick out a new pair of glasses. With a new pair, you can earn an entire new look! We probably spent a good half an hour looking at frames alone but he settled on a nice pair that (I think) make him look so sophisticated.

I think Forrest is really happy that he got a new pair of prescription eyeglasses. He has been pretty amazed at how much better he is able to see. When he takes them off he now realizes just how much his vision needed an extra boost!

If you are in need of a new pair of prescription eyeglasses, please feel free to use the code mommy10 for 10% off your next purchase with GlassesUSA.com.

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Hampton Hotels. All opinions are 100% mine.

In a few weeks we’re going up to Atlanta to visit a friend for her wedding. It’ll be the first “vacation” we have taken since before Carli was born. Needless to say, we are quite excited although nervous about taking a road trip with two young ones!

I was thinking about the hotels we would most likely be staying at for a few days over the weekend that we would be in Atlanta and the first one that came to mind was Hampton, a hotel I have always had a good experience with. While doing research on various hotels (i.e. Hampton) and checking out their specials. In doing so, I’ve discovered their Hampton Chain of Friends Sweepstakes.

Did you know Hampton is currently doing a daily giveaway of a weekend stay at one of their various Hampton hotels? Gah! What I wouldn’t give to win as it would be perfect for our weekend vacation in a few weeks! I am going to enter and I encourage others to enter too as you never know — you may just win! Where would YOU want to go?

If I won we would be going to Atlanta to visit Laura for her wedding and my mother-in-law would be with us. I haven’t been to Atlanta in a few years so we’re going to do all the touristy things like visit the Children’s Museum, The Aquarium, and of course (the original Chick-Fil-a Dwarf House). But we REALLY need somewhere relaxing to rest our heads when all is said and done!

I am really crossing my fingers on this one. *I hope I win. I hope I win. I hope I win.*

A few days ago I discussed shopping with local artisans but there are also world wide artisans to support as well; artisans that aren’t subject to harsh working conditions but instead produce what they wish, in the time span they wish to do so, and with their own artistic methods. The products available aren’t mass made in sweatshops, but instead hand made by usually one person.

Novica is a website associated with National Geographic that gives people all over the world a platform to express their true selves through art (Check out their mission statement!) I had the pleasure of receiving two amethyst rings to try out. Amethyst was my birthstone and it’s been a long time since I’ve been able to get anything for myself. Both of my rings were from artists living in India.

Amethyst Cluster Ring (Made in India)

I believe they shipped directly from India (rather than from a local processing center in the states) and arrived within a week of ordering (from what I remember). Unfortunately they arrived just as I was leaving for the hospital on July 12th! I had barely time to open the box before having to pack my bags. I was very happy to return to them, however. Both rings arrived in a nice box, lined with soft satin-like pillows. I had a hard time opening the box itself (it’s a little tricky) but I figured it out.

The rings themselves were expertly made and just beautiful. I liked knowing that my product was handmade as well as knowing who made it. In my case, an artist named Bhavesh made the ring that you see to the right. I can even be a fan/friend/supporter of his via the website on Novica.

Another reason I like Novica is that there are a wide range of products to purchase in support of world-wide artisans. You can find the perfect business gift for a coworker or a boss. Your gift will be special because they aren’t mass produced and they are true world-wide products, hand made with love! There really is everything for everyone — and pieces that have a story behind them. When someone asks where you got your item, you can tell them how it came from India (or wherever your item came from) and even tell them exactly who made it!

GIVEAWAY

Now you have the chance to win a $75 gift certificate from Novica! Good towards anything in the site! In order to win you must do one of the following (or all for additional entries):

• Find an item under $75 that you would purchase if you won this gift certificate, and comment here and link to it. Tell me why you selected that item!
• Subscribe to my feed (via Google Friend Connect). Let me know who you are via a comment!
• Select a featured artist via Novica and tell me about them. Why did this artist get your attention?
• Answer the question: Why is supporting world-wide artisans important?
• Follow me on Twitter (If you are already a follower, let me know via a comment)
• Create a wishlist via Novica and share it with me (either via comment or email me the link).
• Tell me something you have learned from visiting Novica (and please link to your source).
• Tweet about the giveaway (must supply link to tweet.. If you don’t know how to, just ask and I will help you!)

The contest runs from August 5th 2010 until August 13th 2010. The winner will be selected at random. To increase your chances, feel free to do more than one of the above options to win the gift certificate. The winner will be notified via email (so make sure to supply your correct email via the comment) with a virtual code worth $75 to use at checkout on Novica.com.

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Ramblers Way. All opinions are 100% mine.

Forrest and I have been watching a lot of documentaries lately on the decline of small town(s) and what they bring to us and how we are quickly losing them to “The Man”. They are quickly becoming lost in huge corporate America as big companies are taking over the way produce is grown as well as products are being manufactured. Small farms and families can not compete!

Because there are small towns that are primarily organized around the farming industry, not everyone agrees with corporate practices. When you disagree against the “big man” you are in heavy competition with their approved farms and this can be detrimental to small family owned farms. Many homes are being lost and families put out. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

It is important that we support our small town farmers (which we can find via local farmer’s markets.) You can also do your part by supporting stay at home mothers and their work at home manufactured products (which are often made at a much better quality than mass production standards and have much more sentimental value to them.) Many huge brand name companies are outsourcing labor to other countries in effort to cut back costs and you’ll see this by their “Made in Thailand” or “Made in China” tag. But how many products do you see that are “Made in America“?

Luckily some big brand name companies are realizing that outsourcing has a harsh effect on our economy, putting many locals without jobs. If we do not have jobs, we do not have money to by said products. (Not many huge corporations GET this) But Ramblers Way Farm does. They want to change the way American business is done.

Ramblers Way sources, grows, and produces fine wool clothing using 100% local resources. Instead of outsourcing to poor countries, they are bringing manufacturing facilities to small towns, helping to revitalize these run down communities. Instead of losing a bit of our history, we can actually preserve it by bringing business TO small towns, rather than taking it away and causing an inevitable decline.

The Ramblers Way Corporate office has been made from a fully remodeled building that was originally built in 1972 and is located in downtown Kennebunk, Maine. Restored to its original condition, however has been given the modern upgrades needed to conduct business and meet our current environmental standards. They have even achieved the coveted Gold Lead Certification level!

I am amazed by the efforts Rambers Way has shown in bringing jobs to small cities and helping to rejuvenate small town economy. Why aren’t more companies doing this?

I am a stay at home mother and I do a lot of “Made in America” projects including making clothing and other various items. Doing this allows me to provide for my family. It allows me to put food on the table and support my two very beautiful, sweet, wonderful, and innocent daughters. Supporting local farmers and manufacturers, and giving local people job opportunities is as if we are (in essence) taking care of each other.

In a “man eat man” world that we currently live in — we just need to take care of each other. In a big way.

Wen Hair Care by Chaz Dean

I have pregnancy hair. You know the type — course, unruly, and dull. Unless you were blessed by the hair goddess, you must understand what I am talking about.

I was made aware of this new line of hair care products by Chaz Dean called Wen Hair Care. You know me — I had to do my research. I had to find out if this new line could revive this preggo’s thick mass of unruly disgust.

Plus he’s had his own infomercial on the products and you know how intrigued people can be by infomercial products. Just based on the presentation of the website and the packaging, it definitely looks to be of high quality — but does it work well?

When deciding on new haircare products, my husband is very into making sure that the stuff we use in our household is as natural as possible. From what I’ve been told pre-knowledge on this product, is that Wen Hair Care by Chaz Dean is made of all natural materials. That’s a relief.

So I decided to check out the Wen® Cleansing Conditioner and see what it’s key ingredients were: (As taken directly from their site)

Key Ingredients
Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Cetyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Prunus Serotina (Wild Cherry) Bark Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Hydrolyzed Wheat, Protein, Panthenol, Butylene Glycol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Polysorbate 60, PEG-60 Almond Glycerides, Amodimethicone, Citric Acid, Menthol, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Fragrance (Parfum, Limonene.

Glycerin: provides moisturizing benefits to the hair. One of the best humectants and has natural moisturizing properties.
Chamomile Extract: designed to help add sheen and highlights. Used for its soothing, calming properties.
Cherry Bark: designed to bring out color, shine & softness in all shades of natural and color-treated hair. Formulated to help with the manageability of your hair.
Rosemary Extract: designed to condition, tone and strengthen hair. Is an invigorating toner and astringent.
Panthenol: helps to promote and restore resilience. A penetrating moisturizer that plumps the hair shaft to make it appear thicker. Designed to reduce split ends, smooth, strengthen and seal in moisture.
Sweet almond oil: designed to contribute conditioning and glide to hair, as well as a conditioned feel to the skin. Softens, soothes and is an excellent moisturizer for the hair.

I am  not familiar with some of the alcohol ingredients, but it seems pretty right on in terms of natural ingredients used. It’s nice to see that so many nature-made ingredients used in a product as well as be informed of their actual uses.

Take a look at website and check out the products for yourself and see what you think. Check out the videos, and the testimonies. It’s definitely a product looking into and seeing for yourself.

DISCLOSURE: This post is sponsored. I have been paid to bring notice to the new product, although my opinions are 100% mine and genuine. I do not post anything I do not find of interest to myself and my readers.

I need to start packing my hospital bag, but I cannot (for the life of me) decide what kind of pajamas to bring. I definitely do not want to bring anything I currently have as they are over worn and in need to be thrown out. But finding women’s pajamas that are my taste & style almost seems impossible.

For months I have been looking for a place where I can buy women’s pajamas, and I believe I have finally found the place — WomensPajamas.com! (You can not forget that URL as it is incredibly easy to remember).

Looking through their site, I have found a variety of different styles, materials, and prices! They even have the cutest little baby rompers! They have organic cotton ensembles (the pink and brown pajamas set to the left) as well as cartoon based ensembles such as the Hello Kitty Club Sleepshirt (which I love!) Plus the price is great, averaging around 20-40$ for a pajama set.

If you are in the need of some really adorable undies, then Womens Pajamas also has plenty available as well! I am extremely happy to have found this website because I certainly cannot decide which ones I want to buy! It seems that there are so many options! (But which one to bring to the hospital — or two, for that matter?)

The great thing about this company is that there really IS something for everyone. There are some incredibly sexy nighties for a romantic night with your significant other, such as the Cosabella Soire Flower Aqua & Coral Babydoll & Thong – Women’s Pajama. This piece is a wonderful mixture of both comfort and sensuality and definitely a favorite of mine!

Women’s Pajamas has many designer pajamas to choose from, and all in one place. I definitely encourage you to spend a few minutes and check out the website if you are in the need for some comfortable, yet adorable, night wear!

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of IZEA. All opinions are 100% mine.

Izea is one of the biggest growing internet marketing companies — and it’s spreading itself like a virus! Now they have introduced a new marketing reward system called WeReward.com, which is a free application you can Download the App via your iPhone! Being a HUGE fan of their other marketing programs, I am very honored to try out and tell you all about their new iPhone application/reward system.

After your free download (available via the iTunes App store via your iPhone) you can set up your WeReward account. You can choose to attach your account to other social websites like Twitter and Facebook (I chose Facebook because I am on it a lot more than Twitter!) You can also elect to let WeReward use push notifications and your location to tell you which tasks and check-in locations are nearby.

Upon opening the application (after I have signed up) I see a very large list of local businesses in my area. Beside each location (for example Wendy’s) it gives me a distance (2.2 miles) and a check in points (which are 5 points). When you are at that location, you click on “Check-in” and you are rewarded points for being there. Some businesses (that you may recognize) participating are:

• Pizza Hut
• Little Caesar’s Pizza
• Domino’s Pizza
• Wendy’s
• Subway, etc.

If you are heading out and feel like Subway for breakfast, simply click on “nearby” in the application and type in Subway and you will be given a list of local Subway locations that are participating in the WeReward program. When you are there at that specific location, check in and receive reward points towards your balance.

I have tried searching for places not immediately listed and have had great success:

• Target
• Walmart
• Publix Supermarket (southern grocery chain)
• Bank of America
  .. and more!

From my experience — so far everything I have searched for locally has shown up with reward points offered for being at that specific location!

If you don’t feel like going anywhere, there are specific tasks you can do (depending). Clicking on “Tasks” you are given a list of products and/or companies in which you are required to do something for. The first on my list is for Butt Paste (the products geared towards infants). It is offering 62 points for completing this task.  In this specific task we (as a parent who uses this product in their household) must take a picture of ourselves with the product and tell them what we think about it. Unfortunately, I don’t use butt paste on my child (as of yet) so it’s not something I can do (and/or get approved of!)

Other tasks are from companies:

Jones Soda
Moe’s Southwestern Grill
Domino’s Pizza
Red Bull
.. and more!

Now, you ask — after the acquiring of all these points. What do you actually GET in exchange? You can exchange these points for $$$$ sent directly to your paypal. Each 1,000 points is worth the equivalent of $10 US. In order to cash out, you must reach this 1,000 points, first (and each time you cash out).

I know you’ve seen these money-making programs before, but to be 100% honest, I have used Ikea programs for years and I have always received payment(s) for my services. I have never been scammed by them and/or been any sort of victim. This new program by Ikea, WeReward.com is 100% legit. It’s really THAT easy!

So if you have an iPhone (and a paypal account) don’t forget to download your FREE application and start earning some pocket change for doing what you would normally be doing anyway!

This is a guest post by Annette Cole.

I recently ordered two books from Amazon.com using hughesnet. They’re perfect for a crafter like me who’s always looking for new ideas and inspiration.

The first book, “Organizing Your Craft Space”, provides a huge variety of ideas for crafty people looking to put their craft space in order. Whether it’s a studio, small room or just one corner of your bedroom, you’ll find lots of inspiration on getting your craft space together.

The second book I ordered was “The Gentle Art of Domesticity: Stitching, Baking, Nature, Art & the Comforts of Home.” I can’t say enough how much I love how the book is organized and how inspired I am to bake, sew, knit, crochet and a lot of other things I can’t currently do, but really want to learn! It’s a cozy and comfortable book for those of us who love the comforts of home.

I’ve ordered from Amazon many times using hughesnet Michigan. I love the convenience of online ordering and how the company always emails you details of your order, including estimated arrival time. As always, the process was quick and simple. I’ve never had a problem ordering from them. The few times I’ve had questions, I emailed Customer Support using my hughes net satellite and was helped quickly and to my satisfaction.

For now, I’m going to make myself a hot cup of tea and snuggle down with these two books and enjoy them from cover to cover.

Thanks to Organically Grown (The Organic Lifestyle Company), I am giving away not one but two 100% Organic Cotton (and oh-so-soft!) toddler outfits (2T, Boys). There will be TWO winners selected at random. This giveaway will run from May 6th 2010 – May 14th 2010.

Description of Products from Organically Grown (The Organic Lifestyle Company):

The following description is taken exactly word from word from their press release sheet, as to give you reliable information on their wonderful products.

TODDLER: As you know we [Organically Grown] have recently added Organic toddler Clothing to our collection. The collection is comprised of adorable two-piece outfits for boys and girls in sizes 12-24 months, 2T-4T. With the cute and eco friendly slogans on each of the set’s t-shirts, your toddler can wear their heart on their sleeve with a new message every day of the week!

Handle With Care (as seen to the left): (Retail Value: $30)

100% certified organic cotton 2 piece set: Short sleeve T-shirt with “Handle With Care” and smiling Earth applique with shorts with side pocket on a decorative padded hanger.

Nature Boy (as seen to right): (Retail value: $30)

100% certified organic cotton 2 piece set: Short sleeve T-shirt with “Nature Boy” applique and shorts with side pockets.

Why  Shop Organic?

The public is growing more and more aware of the effect that pesticides and toxins have on the environment and individual health. More families are realizing just how important it is in choosing organic products; a choice that is not only good for the environment but is good for us!

Organic cotton (which Organically Grown products are made up of) is high quality, soft and cuddly, with none of the harsh chemicals that may irritate your child’s sensitive skin. Organically Grown creates products that are not only breathable and cuddly but they are also recyclable, renewable, and biodegradable (not to mention cute and affordable!)

About Organically Grown:

Organically Grown was developed with a positive spirit and heartfelt commitment to a healthy planet. The Organically Grown Group were raised to believe that they could make a difference and bring upon real change to the world and our environment. Being a young company, they believe in the customer’s right to affordable, safe, stylish, and high-quality organic products for your home and your body.

Organically Grown’s apparel is made from 100% organic cotton, which is grown by a safe, pesticide-free method from plants that are not genetically modified. They support the organic farming community and organic organizations world-wide; all companies that are committed to a green, sustainable environment.

There is a direct connection between what we wear on our bodies and the effect it has on our environment; the Earth. According to the Organic Exchange, an estimated 170 million pounds of pesticides, and 25% of the world’s insecticides are used in the production of conventional, non-organic cotton. (Do your realize the outfit you are wearing contained such harsh chemicals that are harsh on YOU and our environment?) 7 out of 10 of these pesticides are on the EPA’s “known” list of “likely” and “probable” carcinogens (which explains why Cancer rates are as high as they are!) These chemicals result in work-force illnesses, water contamination, and the devastation of farmland.  All of the problems are eliminated through organic farming practices. Organically Grown is proud to contribute to this solution!

How to Enter:

There are TWO chances to win an outfit per entry as there are two giveaways happening here, and not just one! In order to enter, you MUST leave a comment with a legitimate contact email. The email will not be published, but it allows me to find you and contact you if you should win.

In the comments, you must answer or do at LEAST one of the following:

• Link to one of your favorite products from the Organically Grown website, and tell me why its your favorite.
• Explain why you want your family to live a more “Green” life.

The winner(s) will be chosen at random on May 14th, 2010!

With all the tragedies that have been surfacing lately, many people are doing what they can to raise awareness and/or raise money for a cause. Publicity of any nature can often be costly.

This month, take advantage of this giveaway offered by OnlinePosterPrinting.com. This company is offering, free-of-charge:

18×24 Poster Print for One (1) Winner

Paper Stock: High Gloss or Semi Gloss

Specifications: 1 Business Day Turnaround

Shipping: FREE UPS Ground Shipping

Eligibility: Limited to US Residents only

How awesome is this offer? How helpful will it be in publicizing your cause? OnlinePosterPrinting.com offers the ability to use digital photo enlargement which means – yes! You can use your digital photos on posters!

In order to enter:

Please comment on this entry, telling me what you would use your poster for. What cause? What or who are you giving publicity to? Will it be for a gift?

The winner will be chosen March 11th at random.