The Klauer Review

Go the f*k to sleep by Adam Mansbach

2012-01-31T10:36:00.001-06:00

Ok so this is a book out there that has induced some heated discussion so I thought let's check it out. In case you have not read the book I love the you tube narration of the book done by Samuel Jackson...

OUR THOUGHTS~ At first I was like HOLY COW this book is VULGAR, and you know what it is. It is filled with expletives but you know what. That is the point. Honestly I don't think it is a book I would read to my kids but it is a book I enjoyed hearing and realizing that no I am not a bad parent at 3 am when my kid has yet to go to sleep and all I can do is keep from crying while hearing these exact same phrases in the book run through my head.

It is nice to show no you are not alone there are days that kids just are not tired or they are over tired and just can't shut down which leads a very tired you to deal with the bouncing bundle of joy. Yes this is NORMAL.. But because of the polarization around this book I thought I would check it out and also open up a little discussion on here.

So readers:

Please leave a comment below about what you thought about the book. What do you think?? There is no wrong answer but I sure would love to hear other peoples thoughts!!

Barlean's Review

2012-01-27T09:44:00.001-06:00

Barlean's Specializes in Organic Oils like fish oil, flax oil, borage oil and mixtures. My favorite are the Omega Swirls because you can get your Omegas in great flavors with no fishy after taste like some other company brands. I personally have never cared for fish so I was reluctant to take a liquid form of fish oils because I was afraid of having a strong fishy aftertaste or burps.

Here is some information on the Swirls

What are Omega Swirls?

Omega Swirls are Omega-3 supplements that have been emulsified. The texture of this line of products is very creamy, much like a fruit smoothie. Omega Swirls are flavored naturally and have the taste and texture of a delicious fruit smoothie.

Why is emulsification a feature of Omega Swirls?

When oils are emulsified they are much easier to digest and are better absorbed by the body. Better absorption (bio-availability) means that the body can potentially use more of the oil per serving, and therefore receive better benefit. In fact, a pilot study conducted with Lemon Zest Omega Swirl indicated that this product was 9 times better absorbed than regular fish oil.

Do Omega Swirls contain sugar?

No. Omega Swirls taste sweet because they contain xylitol, a natural non-sugar sweetener. Xylitol has been used for decades as a natural sweetener and is safe for diabetics and other sensitive populations who must control their blood sugar levels.

Which Omega Swirls are suitable for Vegans/Vegetarians?

Strawberry-Banana, Blackberry, Pomegranate-Blueberry and Chocolate-Raspberry Omega Swirls are suitable for Vegans/Vegetarians.

Barlean's also makes oil versions for kids. My kids love the new Barlean's Omega Kid's DHA.

Barlean's Omega Kid's DHA Bubbles orange cream chewable softgels are a fun, easy way to provide your children with optimal levels of nutritious Omega-3. Kids love the delicious burst of all-natural orange cream flavor; parents love the benefits of vital and essential Omega-3.

DHA stands for "docosahexaenoic acid." It is a polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acid (22:6 n3) and is considered a beneficial fat. DHA is critical for the optimal development and function of the brain, eyes, and central nervous system during infancy and childhood. The brain grows rapidly throughout the first years of life, and DHA usage by the brain is significant during this time. Because DHA makes up a large portion of the brain and the retinas of the eyes, a deficiency could negatively impact the development or function of these organs. Studies revealed that babies with higher DHA levels have better mental and visual function. In addition, children who were breastfed tend to have higher IQ scores and better academic performance than those who were formula-fed; this is believed to be partly related to the high DHA content of breastmilk. (from Healthcastle)

To find where Barlean's is sold Near you Check out their STORE LOCATOR

And to Stay in the know you can sign up for Barlean's Newsletter.

Survival Strap~ Ends 2/10 (11:59pm EST)

2012-01-27T09:24:00.001-06:00

What is a Survival Strap? Survival Straps are stylish bracelets that can help you survive what ever life throws at you. (from their site)

Survival Straps are worn around the world as a fashion statement but also as a symbol of strength, honor, survival and the greatness of the American Production. They are built in America from super strong military issue paracord giving them a secondary purpose. In an emergency situation, unravel the bracelet to deploy the paracord to help you get out of a jam.

Summary - The Regular Survival Bracelet is our most popular piece of Men's gear. It is a tough and unique bracelet and is a life saving device. Whether you are on an expedition around the world, at the range, hiking in the mountains, stranded on an island, or simply running errands around town, you will always have several feet of 550 test military spec paracord with you at all times. In an emergency situation, you can unravel the bracelet and deploy the paracord to help save your hide! The Wounded Warrior Project logo is attached with a stainless steel military spec dog tag. The logo will not rust, scratch, or show fingerprints. It is made to last. If you are looking for a unique, stylish, and functional piece of gear, that is great for everyday wear, this one is for you.

*Lots of Paracord - Our Regular Survival Bracelets are made with up to 16 feet of military spec paracord. We build each one with approximately 1.75 feet per every inch of wrist size. A size 7.5 will give you approximately 14 feet of paracord when unraveled. Plenty to help get you out of a jam.

*If You Use It, We Replace It Policy - All our gear is designed so that in an emergency situation, you can unravel the bracelet and deploy the paracord for use. Don't hesitate to unravel your Survival Strap. If you do use your Survival Strap, simply send us your story and a picture of how it was used, and we will send you a new one, free of charge.

*Color and Logo - The Wounded Warrior Project Survival Straps come in black. The logo is attached with a stainless steel military spec dog tag. The logo will not rust, scratch, or show fingerprints. It is made to last.

*Stainless Steel Shackle Closure Option - Our shackle closure is made from extremely tough marine grade stainless steel. Besides looking incredible, it has the following features:

Adjustable - The stainless steel shackle makes our Survival Bracelets adjustable. We will build your bracelet for your specific wrist size. However, you can now adjust it on your wrist to wear it as loose or as tight as you would like. There are 3 settings for adjustment. Simply insert the shackle pin into whichever hole you would like to achieve the fit you are looking for.

Standard Break-Away Feature for Safety - Many of our customers love wearing our Survival Bracelets, but are concerned wearing them around machinery, or anything they could get their bracelet, and their arm, "hung up" on. Survival Straps Bracelets now come standard installed with a break-away pin. This pin is tough enough for everyday use, but it is designed to shear off and "break away" from your wrist when a significant force is applied. This adds a safety factor to wearing your Survival Bracelet.

Standard Stainless Steel Pin - Survival Straps are all about strength in every way. Because of this they also come standard with a marine grade stainless steel pin. You can choose to install the stainless pin, instead of the break-away pin, for added strength. Installing this pin gives the stainless shackle hundreds of potential uses in an emergency situation. Even if you wear your Survival Strap with the break away pin feature installed, you can keep the stainless pin handy if you need to deploy the paracord and the shackle in an emergency situation.

Rounded Knurled Pin - Both the break-away pin, and the stainless pins on the Survival Strap shackles are rounded. This helps to make sure your bracelet will not snag on anything like clothing. The pins are also knurled so that you can get a good grip while twisting them.

Stamped In Steel - Survival Straps is stamped into our stainless shackle closure. Just so you know who's got your back!!!

*Plastic Side Release Buckle Closure Option - For those that prefer black plastic over stainless steel, we can also build your Survival Bracelet with a tough plastic side release buckle. This closure makes it extremely easy to put on and take off your SurvivalStrap; however, it is not adjustable.

*Width of Regular Survival Bracelets - The Regular Survival Bracelets are approximately 1" wide.

Some stories of the real life jams people got out of with the help of the paracord visit here.

Our Thoughts~~ I like my pink lightweight survival strap. It makes a nice bracelet. Though I haven't deployed mine yet for an emergency it has been used quiet well as a teething nub for the baby. He likes to grab my wrist and chew on my bracelet. When I got the packet of items for review. My brothers and husband each claimed a men's bracelet. They all enjoy them. Both of my brothers have been asked where they got the bracelet and have had friends that want them as well. As for my husband I am happy that he has one to wear because he is in the military reserves and I could see him coming into a situation where he would need to deploy his before we do. These Survival Straps come with 2 different closing pins, one made of solid steel and the other of a break away material. I think these options are great because for people who work around moving part machines and soldiers who are deployed need a break away pin in case they get hung up and need a quick get away. I just like how thoroughly the company thought through the closure to protect the wearers.

I like that the Survival Strap Company has a line of products that carry the Wounded Warrior Project Emblem and that 50% of the proceeds from the sales of these items go to the Wounded Warrior project.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Bio-Oil

2012-01-23T10:36:00.000-06:00

Bio-Oil

From Their Site~

The Bio‐Oil formulation is a combination of plant extracts and vitamins suspended in an oil base. It contains the breakthrough ingredient PurCellin Oil™, which changes the formulation’s overall consistency, making it light and non‐greasy, ensuring that the goodness contained in the vitamins and plant extracts is easily absorbed.
Bio‐Oil has undergone safety assessments in accordance with the Council on Cosmetic Products. The toxicological profile, chemical structure, level of inclusion and total level of daily exposure of each ingredient used has been assessed and deemed safe for use (including for use by pregnant women).
Bio‐Oil is a member of Beauty Without Cruelty International.

Bio‐Oil is a specialist moisturizing oil that smooths and tones scars, stretch marks and uneven skin tone. It is also effective for aging and dehydrated skin. Bio‐Oil has won 80 skincare awards since its global launch in 2002. It is America’s No.1 selling skincare oil (IRI Total US FDMx for the year ending 4 September 2011).

OUR THOUGHTS~

Ok I got this for a Review back in November. They said for best results to use daily for 90 days. I am not quite to 90 but have been trying to remember to use it daily for 90 days. I honestly wish I would have had this while pregnant. While I do not have stretch marks on my belly I do have some on my chest and can see a noticeable difference in the visibility of the white marks. I also used it on my tummy just because I have insanely dry skin and have found that my skin absorbs the oil quickly and doesn't leave it greasy which is a MUST in my book.

I like that this is oil works and even like the soft scent it gives off. I am normally an ANTI-SCENT in my products due to the sensitive skin factor but these do not effect my skin so I am ok with them. As I said above I wish I would have tried this for my pregnancies because though I didn't have the stretch marks to deal with I did deal with the tight pulling itchy skin and I think that this Bio Oil would have help made the skin supple and give it a better elasticity for the stretching my 4 sweet boys inflicted.

All in all I say definitely give this a go if you are pregnant or not but trying to battle the stretch marks or just overall dehydrated skin.

I have seen it at Walgreens with a retail of $11.99 (2 fl.oz.) $19.99 (4.2 fl.oz.) also available at these stores..

Check out their Web SITE and Facebook page

Please leave a comment on what you think or if you have tried this I would love to hear your stories and experiences.

Zippity Doo's~ Ends 1/20 (11:59pm EST)

2012-01-06T09:32:00.000-06:00

Zippity Doo's Line is Children's Hair Care product line that aids in the prevention of Lice.

From Their SITE~

Use Zippity Doo’s™ hair care products and surface spray
for maximum protection against head lice and other insects.

Mild and safe enough to use daily
Natural, gentle prevention instead of harsh treatments

Use Zippity Doo’s™ :

	Bath Time: Zippity Doo’s™Shampoo and Zippity Doo’s™ Conditioner as first line of defense against lice and other insects.

	Every Morning: Zippity Doo’s™ Leave-In Detangler or Zippity Doo’s™ Styling Gel for an added and fresh layer of lice prevention before the kids head off to school or camp.

	Daily/As Needed: Apply Zippity Doo’s™ Shield Spray on all surfaces, including hats, helmets, backpacks, pillows, bedding, toys, combs, clips, berets and other items and hair accessories that may harbor lice, nits and other insects. OUR THOUGHTS~~ Shortly after we were given the opportunity to try the Zippity Doo's Product line we got that dreaded note home from school. You know the one that makes your head tingle and your body's natural to start freaking out and itching. YUP the there has been a sight of LICE in the school. So First things first we checked his head for the lice and Nits. And of course if you didn't know those pesky little buggers are hard to see in blond hair. So we did a deep and through check. With a relieved EXHALE. NO LICE. Well time to start getting on the Protection regime. We started using the Shampoo and Conditioner at bath time. Personally I like the smell. But it is strong of the essential oils that help repel Lice so if you are sensitive to strong smells you may find it a little overwhelming. Next our son's hair is out of control in the morning so we use the Leave in Conditioner spray to help tame the fly aways. And of course since it is winter and everyone is bundled up in coats, hats, gloves, scarfs. We decided to give everything a quick spray with the shield spray. Since the note we have used the Zippity Doo's for 2 months and NO LICE here. WHOOO HOO. I am very impressed with the cleaning and the gentleness of the products on his hair and think that using the products is way easier than trying to get rid of LICE out of the house after it is in the house. Personally I have VERY VERY VERY long hair and if LICE came here it would be a nightmare to get it out of my hair along with trying to clean up all the soft surfaces and out of the hair of all of our boys. So in my mind an ounce of prevention is worth its weight in GOLD here. I have seen the Zippity Doo line in our local Walgreens but if you are looking to find it near you here are some of the stores..

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Swaddle Designs~ ends 1/12 (11:59pm EST)

2011-12-29T08:14:00.001-06:00

SwaddleDesigns® is introducing the SwaddleDuo™

SwaddleDuo offers two premium, yet different, baby soft cotton swaddling blankets - two swaddle blankets in a wonderful gift box:
·         The Ultimate Receiving Blanket® is a lightweight premium cotton flannel blanket – for moderate to cooler environmental temperatures
·         The Marquisette Swaddling Blanket® is a very lightweight openweave cotton blanket – for warmer environmental temperatures

With the SwaddleDuo, parents will be prepared for a variety of environmental settings - cool, moderate and warm

SwaddleDesigns Cotton Marquisette is similar to muslin but is made from premium quality yarns.
SwaddleDesigns Cotton Flannel is made from premium preshrunk domestic cotton.

“The SwaddleDesigns Goldilocks Guide™ ~ baby should not be too hot, or too cold, but just right ~ comfortably warm.”
The Goldilock’s Guide helps new parents remember the importance of keeping baby comfortably warm.

SwaddleDesigns strives to help new parents care for their baby by providing accurate and up-to-date information, so parents may make informed choices. SwaddleDesigns Safe Sleep Program includes recommendations from the AAP and the NIH as the company strives to increase awareness of Safe Sleep practices and help parents reduce risk of SIDS.

SwaddleDuo available in 17 styles with MSRP of $38 http://www.swaddledesigns.com/c/Swaddle-Duo/SD00

According to leading SIDS researchers, both overheating AND overchilling are risk factors for SIDS. In addition, it’s important for parents to understand that when baby is too cool during sleep, baby will use valuable energy to stay warm instead of growing and thriving. Over the past few years some juvenile product companies have over focused on overheating as a SIDS risk factor, and there has been a lack of balanced conversation regarding insufficient thermal insulation – the danger of baby being too cool - as a risk factor for SIDS. It is time for a balanced information where parents are educated and reminded of their important responsibility to make sure baby is not too hot or too cold, but comfortably warm.

Founded by Lynette Damir, RN, in 2002, SwaddleDesigns was the first company to introduce the large square swaddling blanket to the US and many countries around the world. SwaddleDesigns is known for their premium quality fabric, fabulous colors and prints, decorative edge, and the innovative 123 Swaddle® instructional label that helps new parents master the art of swaddling. SwaddleDesigns swaddling blankets are perfect for swaddling and have many uses such as a privacy throw for breastfeeding moms, a tummy time play mat and a cover over the stroller.

More Swaddling information.. I love their website because all of the information is in a quick easy reference area.

AWARD WINNING

Our Thoughts~~
I love these blankets. They are large enough for bigger babies too. I have mentioned before on other posts how much I dislike the 30x30 receiving blankets because they really are only good for a big burp cloth. Where Swaddle Designs duo has 2 blankets each of them are 44x44 or larger and they have 2 fabric styles to meet either your colder climate or larger climate. Another feature of these blankets is the easy how to swaddle tag that is sewn on to each blanket. Great for newly swaddling parents or a refresher course for the more seasoned veterans. These large blankets are great for nursing in public because you can easily cover up all the angles. I love that I can pretty much wrap the blanket over my shoulder on the side I am nursing and lean back against it so my little squirmmer doesn't give a peep show and then also be able to tuck it under the other arm and hold it down over there as well at the same time. The lightweight muslin one is even light enough for warmer environment nursing. You don't get too hot and the baby isn't sweating to death while having a meal.

Anyone looking for a great gift for a new mom in your life or still trying to find a great blanket for yourself please check these out. I know a few of my friends and I have taken these style blankets to be our go to Baby Shower Gifts.a Rafflecopter giveaway

Journal 10 (Quick Giveaway)~Ends 12/31 (11:59pm EST)

2011-12-27T17:11:00.000-06:00

Hope everyone had a great Christmas. I had hoped to get this posted earlier but the 4 little boys kept me too busy.

Journal 10

Some of the Features (information from their site)~

Our Daily Page is the heart of Journal 10+. Record your activities, thoughts, feelings & memories. Each Daily Page covers a single date. The page is divided into 11 sections, one for each year, with four lines for each individual daily entry. Enough room to record the day's events without the burden of creating a lengthy entry. Each year you will record your entry for that date on the same page, and so you get to look back and relive all your wonderful memories from past years.

No one plans to fail, but quite a few folks fail to plan. Begin each year with focus & purpose with our Looking Ahead section. Each year has its own page for setting goals and tracking your progress toward them. Record your personal goals & dreams, or those for your family. Refer back to this section throughout the year to stay on track, alter plans as circumstances change and celebrate each of your achievements

Never forget another birthday, anniversary or special date. This handy reference keeps you on top of all recurring dates. Spread over six pages with generous space for each month, you'll be able to plan gift and card selections well in advance and avoid the embarrassment of overlooking these meaningful events.

Our Thoughts~ I am excited to start writing. With 4 small boys it is hard to keep up with a full length type journal. But with this journal there is a small spot each day for a cliff notes version of the day or maybe a funny thing that happened or something funny your kids did or said. My kids are forever saying something silly and I try to remember to write those little conversations down but with this journal it will give me that spot to keep these treasures close. I like that you have all 10 years for that day on the one page so you can look back each year and see what happened on that day the previous years.

I am very excited to share this with you and excited about this giveaway. Sorry it is going to be a quickie but I wanted the winner to get it as close to the new year as possible. If you win just start writing on a piece of paper and transfer later.. :D

Ok Rafflecoppter is being strange if you can not enter using the widget please just leave a blog comment saying Rafflecoppter Down.. Thanks I hope it starts working.

Update~ Rafflecopter is up and running your previous entries will be added and you can do more of them to get more chances.... THANKS Sorry for the inconvenience.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Bamboobies~ Ends 12/26 (11:59pm est)

2011-12-11T12:38:00.001-06:00

Bamboobies Nursing Pads are Mom Invented and Mom Approved. Bamboobies are Reusable Breastpads.

We got to test out both a set of the Regulars and a set of the Overnights.

The Regulars have 3 layers:

The Super-soft Bamboo+Cotton Velour is the layer that sits against your skin and the super soft velvety feel is great against your nipples. Under the Velour is the absorbent hemp that locks in the milk then comes the milk proof Outer layer. You would think with all these layers that they would be really think but they have an amazingly thin profile, and with the Unique Heart Shape they lay closer to the skin instead of bunching up and showing lines under your shirt. You really can't tell they are there just looking at someone.

The OverNights also have 3 layers":

Unlike the regulars there isn't a milk-proof outer layer and these are way way thicker than the regulars. These are also SOOOO Soft and with the thicker absorbent organic cotton and hemp core that you do not leak through. In the morning I was checking them out. I didn't leak through but you could feel the trapped milk in the absorbent core. It wasn't wet it was just full feeling.

Personally I wish I had these with our first son and at the very beginning. You know the first few weeks that you are biting your cheeks when the baby latches on because you are sore. The Velvetyness of the velour would be a piece of heaven during that time. Along with the need for a little extra protection. I also like that these are reusable. That means was and reuse. Instead of having to buy box upon box of disposable. Here are some photos from their site that helps explain size comparison and price comparison.

Buy yours here!!!!! TKR20 for 20% off at checkout at www.buybamboobies.com

The Klauer Review

Go the f*k to sleep by Adam Mansbach

Barlean's Review

What are Omega Swirls?

Why is emulsification a feature of Omega Swirls?

Do Omega Swirls contain sugar?

Which Omega Swirls are suitable for Vegans/Vegetarians?

Survival Strap~ Ends 2/10 (11:59pm EST)

Bio-Oil

Zippity Doo's~ Ends 1/20 (11:59pm EST)

Use Zippity Doo’s™ hair care products and surface spray for maximum protection against head lice and other insects.

Use Zippity Doo’s™ :

Swaddle Designs~ ends 1/12 (11:59pm EST)

Journal 10 (Quick Giveaway)~Ends 12/31 (11:59pm EST)

Bamboobies~ Ends 12/26 (11:59pm est)

Use Zippity Doo’s™ hair care products and surface spray
for maximum protection against head lice and other insects.