Kid Basix Safe Sippy 2

If you've been wondering why I've not reviewed any sippy cups yet, it's because I had yet to find a sippy cup the twins liked.  I'm a tad embarrassed to admit that At 14 months we still have not completely given up our bottles.  I have a million reasons why I think they seem to still really need their bottles, one of them being they never found the right sippy cup until now.

A friend of mine suggested the Kid Basix Sippy to me after hearing about the twins lack of interest.  She told me they were the only ones her little one liked and they last forever making them worth every penny.  After trying the safe sippy I think we have to agree with her and her little expert.  The Kid Basix Safe Sippy is really a wonderful choice.

So why did it work for my twins over other brands?

The spout seemed to be the selling point for my twins.  They really hated the spouts on virtually every other cup we tried.  Unlike the wide drinking spouts found on many sippy cups, the safe sippy has a smaller straw-shaped spout which they apparently designed because it's been deemed to be better for developing mouths.  The twins also seem to really find the overall shape  and texture of this cup comfortable.  The removable handles are an asset as well.

Why did I like it?

First of all, I liked it because the twins liked it.  Additionally, it was important to me that I find sippy cups that were free of Bisphenol A, phthalates and all the other harmful stuff we are suppose to be avoiding.  The stainless steel design seems like a long lasting and safe choice.  

I should also mention that finding something dish washer safe was a must for me.  Plus, I love that the safe sippy 2 can later utilize the included straw and straw adapter, making this a cup we can still be putting to good use 3 years from now.  Since some of my cups are the original safe sippy, I was thrilled to hear that I can also purchase the straw and straw adapters for use with them too.  It's designs like this that show this is a company committed to being globally responsible.  

I am happy to report that while we aren't totally bottle free yet, we are definitely making progress now that we've found a cup design we all actually like.

Olivia - now on DVD

Olivia is an all-new pre-school series from the creators of the Max & Ruby television series, based on the beloved books. The series is designed to invite preschoolers into the life--both real and fantasy--of an adventurous, can-do 6-year-old girl, her family and friends. Olivia is innately playful and imaginative. She moves in and out of fantasy and reality, imagining herself as a super hero, a pop star, or a mommy. Pre-schoolers love fun and creativity and no one embraces creativity and dramatic play like Olivia. Olivia’s world is created in CG animation, giving the show a 3-D look and feel. The series launched on Nick Jr and Noggin January 26, 2009.

If you haven't read the Olivia books, you simply must!  If you have, you'll likely be as excited I was to find out the Max & Ruby creators had taken this series to the TV screen.  We love the Olivia books and adored this new TV series now released to DVD too.  The music is sweet, the voices fit perfectly, and the stories are as rich and colorful as the book versions.  We really enjoyed watching this first Olivia release and look forward to more.  Our favorite episode on this DVD was "Olivia plays Soccer".  Olivia definetly proves she has a mind and style all of her own.  Adorable!

Apple Grove Pals by Little Tikes

The twins have been busy boys lately playing with their new friends, the Apple Grove Pals made by Little Tikes.  Apple Grove Pals are a brand new line for the 18-36 month toddler crowd and at 14 months we might be a tad under the targeted age, but we really are enjoying them.

At first glance these might look very similar to other toddler playsets already on the market, however they are actually a far more developed concept then sets I have owned in the past.  

This line of farm characters is sized slightly bigger which seems to make them a better overall fit in my boys hands.  Additionally, I loved the fact that each sweet faced character has a removable hat which can be donned on any of the Apple Grove characters my children see fit.  I found this a wonderful additional tool for my twin set of beginner role-players to utilize as they might want.   

Each set also comes with a tiny board book style story that emphasizes important social and moral lessons.  Isn't this a great way to help spark your little ones play with these toys?  The twins were sent the Deluxe Farm Playset which comes with a hat wearing pig, cow, and zebra.  Yes, I said Zebra ... the included story explains.  The Farm set features a swing, a movable water wheel, a well/slide, a teeter-totter, and battery operated buttons that make sounds when pushed.  

We also were sent an additional set of figures, which was a must have with twins to keep things even.  Our additional set of people included a chicken, a penguin, and a duck complete with hats of course.  Their story is a mystery caper about one of our favorite foods ... pancakes!

I definitely think we will be putting some of the other available Apple Grove sets on Santa's list if I don't cave and reward them with some additions sooner.

Jumpstart Online Giveaway winner!

The winner of the 3 month membership giveaway to Jumpstart Online as chosen by Random.org is ...

#8 darlanpaulsmamma

My twins: A twin likeness of my two older sons

As frequent readers know, I am the mommy to 4 boys and a girl.  The birth order goes boy, boy, girl, then twin boys.  My twins, Cormac & Declan, are fraternal and look clearly like brothers of the same age, however we rarely have people ask if they are identical now that they just turned 14 months old.  In fact, people are really starting to notice the differences.

What's amusing is that Cormac and Declan each look like they could be the twin of one of our older two boys more so then their own twin.  Funnier still is that the older brother they most look like seems to have also leant them a nearly identical personality.  Oddly enough, my husband and I find ourselves often remarking about how our twins almost seem like clones of the older two boys.

I frequently have people who know the older boys, come up and immediately notice that Cormac looks so much like Hayden when he was smaller and that Declan largely resembles J.C.  They too seem to notice this likeness seems to extend beyond just the physical.

Lucky for the twins, I am very fond of my older two sons!

School Lunches: Snack Options

It is time to stock up on healthy items for school lunches around our house and this task never seems to get easier to do.

My two youngest attend a private grade school that doesn't offer hot lunch options and my high schooler has a myriad of food allergies, so we will once again be packing all our own lunches for our 3 school age children.

To further complicate matters this year, lunch period has actually been shortened to just 20 minutes at the grade school to accommodate a new recess for all grades policy at the school.  I'm thrilled the older kids will now get a much needed recess break, but I'm also concerned about how the smaller time may effect what gets eaten.

Additionally, my high schooler stays for football practice right after school making extra snacks a must have addition to his brown bag.

Here's a great side snack option that we have just added to our list, Pirate's Booty.  If you haven't tried any Booty yet, you really must.  It's become an instant hit in our household.  It comes in several flavors like Aged White Cheddar, Barbeque, Veggie, Bermuda Onion and Sea Salt & Vinegar.  Believe it or not, I think Veggie is my high school age son's favorite flavor.  

More importantly, Pirate's Booty is a baked all-natural snack made from puffed rice and corn. All Pirate’s Booty products are low in fat (130 calories per serving) gluten and trans-fat free as well as tree-nut free, making it a safe option for my son with food allergies.

Could a 16.5-carat diamond necklace add some Bliss to your everyday world?

I think wearing a 16.5 carat diamond necklace for a couple weeks could definitely add some extra sparkle to my days and nights.

I just talked to a friend of mine at Hershey's Company and learned about an online contest inspired by the best-selling book “The Necklace” and their new Hershey's Bliss Chocolate Bars.

Need I really say more then the words CHOCOLATE & DIAMONDS?

First, let me tell you a bit about the book.  In the New York Times best-selling book “The Necklace: Thirteen Women and the Experiment That Transformed Their Lives” by Cheryl Jarvis (A Ballantine Trade Paperback; On Sale Today - August 25, 2009), 13 women embark on a surprising journey of living life and learning about one another as they join forces to purchase and share a diamond necklace.  The whole concept was designed by the women to celebrate life's everyday bliss.

I haven't read the book yet, but had ironically ordered it from our local bookstore last week prior to hearing about this contest this morning.  Now I'm even more anxious to get my hands on it.

Hershey’s Bliss® chocolate will take a page from this true story to help others experience the undeniable bliss of sharing just like the women of “The Necklace.” The Hershey’s Bliss chocolate Share the Bliss™ contest will connect women nationwide with the once-in-a-lifetime chance to share a 16.5-carat diamond necklace. The national online essay contest kicks-off today at www.hersheysbliss.com and celebrates the launch of the new Hershey’s Bliss Dark Chocolate bars and Hershey’s Bliss Milk Chocolate with a Meltaway Center bars.  

Beginning today and going through December 2009, consumers can visit www.hersheysbliss.com to enter the Share the Bliss contest by submitting their stories (150 words or less) of why they want to experience or be “blissed” the Hershey’s Bliss diamond necklace.

Now here's the sparkling yummy part!  

Five lucky women will be selected to share the 16.5-carat diamond necklace for two weeks and will receive the necklace, delicious Hershey’s Bliss chocolate and a signed copy of “The Necklace.” 

Additionally, each of these winners will be asked to share their experience with the necklace through a blog on the Hershey’s Bliss chocolate Web site and to help select the next winner, thus connecting women nationwide. The winners will be invited to meet in person for the first time at the Young Survival Coalition’s (YSC) spring 2010 charity benefit in New York City where the necklace will be “blissed” for the last time. Hershey’s Bliss will continue the company’s long-standing support of the YSC and raising awareness for breast cancer by donating the 16.5-carat diamond necklace to the organization’s annual fund raiser.

You can visit www.hersheysbliss.com for more information on Hershey’s Bliss chocolate and to enter for a chance to be one of five lucky women who will be “blissed” with the one-of-a-kind diamond necklace.

The twins in their Schatzi Wear Apparel

Whether your style is edgy or sweet you should be able to add a "small treasure" to your child's wardrobe at SchatziWear.com.  I certainly was when I found these funky t-shirts for the twins a couple weeks ago.  How cool are Cormac & Declan looking in these 60's inspired threads?

Style isn't the only thing these shirts have going for them, they are packaged in an eco-friendly manner too.  Additionally, the 2010 spring line will be made with bamboo and organic cotton.  Even better still, each sale results in a donation to SOS Children's Villages Canada.

Schatzi wear was inspired by two long-time friends, Judy and Tanja. Both of German descent but raised in Canada, they share a love of shopping and style. The name “schatzi,” which means “small treasure” in German, was a word commonly used in their homes while growing up, and it has become a term of endearment for their own kids.

Winner of Crayola giveaway #4

The winner as selected by Random.org is ...

#151 dddiva

Congrats!

Winner of Sid the Science Kid & Dive Ollie Dive DVDs

The winner as selected by Random.org is 

#3 Jennifer

Congratulations!

Back to School Eve

Yesterday we stopped by the Lands' End Pack Pal Party at a local Sears store.  2 of my children spent some time making backpack decorations as a way to get further into the back to school spirit.  We even ran into our school's principle with her own children at this cute event.

My children each wear uniforms to school and I've been buying the bulk of these items from Lands End for years.  I've always been highly impressed with the quality of Lands End Uniforms.  They truly hold up during the course of the year and I've been able to pass a lot of things down to our other children.  

We've had equal success with Lands End backpacks and fortunately we did not not need to buy new ones this year making this event perfect for us.  The kids were able to make some items to spruce up their current packs and were each given a pack pal for just stopping by the party.

Backpacks were $10 off for the event though and Lands End was matching each backpack purchased during the event with a donated backpack to a local shelter.

So how shall we spend Back to School eve?  Today is a small open house at the school in which the "classmate lists" are revealed.  After much wishing and waiting the kids finally will find out who their teacher is for the year and which buddies will be in their homerooms with them.

After this event, we'll likely be at home filling out last minute paperwork, stuffing school supplies in our bags, and sorting laundry. 

Zhu Zhu Pets {Review & Giveaway}

Hamsters have taken over our home!  Well not REAL hamsters, but a battery operated version that behaves in a very hamster like fashion.  These hamsters are Zhu Zhu pets and I have to say after watching all 5 kids interacting with these little guys, I think these are likely to be a huge 2009 holiday hot toy.

Admittedly, when I first heard we were being sent a hamster like toy and some of it's toy habitat items from MomSelect, I was not sure this was going to be a toy that saw much action after the new toy, first day novelty wore off.  I was wrong.  

My kids are still playing with these interactive Zhu Zhu pets in and out of all their Zhu Zhu playsets several days later and I can see why.  

First off, they have that cute, fuzzy, cuddly, and lovable factor that girls typically love.  Add that to their completely goofy, unpredictable, an fearless persona and you have a toy boys want to experiment with too.  While my 10 year old son is building ramps and dreaming up challenges for the Zhu Zhu pets, my daughter is nurturing and petting hers.  

The various playsets that can be purchased independently and combined in various formations are an aspect that further enhances the fun.  The hamster funhouse is what I'd consider the main hub needed if you plan to create a big habitat for your Zhu Zhu pets.  The Hamster wheel & tunnel are a lot of fun to watch them use.  We are also big fans of the spiral slide and the hamster car.

Other playsets include the classic hamster ball enabling your pet to wander all over the house inside, the sleep dome and surfboard, and the U turn / S turn with skateboard. 

Zhu Zhu Pets are made by Cepia Llc. and can be bought at Wal-Mart, Amazon and Toys R Us.  However, you can enter to win 1 Zhu Zhu pet and 1 spiral slide below.

Enter to Win:

You can enter to win 1 Zhu Zhu Pets Hamster and 1 spiral slide.  I ask that you simply take a moment to visit ZhuZhuPets.com and then leave a comment below.

Optional Additional Entries:

• 1 extra entry if you follow my blog or subscribe to my blog's feed.
• 1 extra entry if you tweet about this contest.
• 1 extra entry if you blog about this contest and link back to it.
• 1 extra entry if you digg, kirtsy, or stumble this post.

Rules:

An email address is required to enter.  Please leave it in your comment, or make sure one is visible for me to find in your blogger profile. If you qualify for additional entries please comment separately telling us which options you have used. A winner will be chosen via random.org. The winner will be contacted by email and will have 48 hours to reply before a new winner is chosen.  This contest is open to USA only.

Contest ends 9/23/09
Thanks for Entering and Good luck to everyone!  

Winners of OldNavyWeekly Giveaway for $50 off $100 Old Navy Coupons

Congrats to the winners and thank you to entering for all of you who didn't win this time. Many more great giveaways planned.

Here's the list of winners as selected by Random.org:

#53 valknight08

#159 3giggles

#49 aslapensee

#16 dgoodridge84

#141 rachel

#89 Kristy

#111 jeanae

#143 debbie

#37 luvtosave

#8 Heather

Elmer's Glue Crew Info & Giveaway

I recently learned about this next program and thought it was such a fabulous idea that I wrote the company and asked if I could help spread the word about it.  They were even kind enough to offer a giveaway to our readers in hopes that they too would be inspired to "spread the word".

More about the giveaway later in this post, first here's the information on this amazing program:

Elmer’s^® Products, Inc., a leader in adhesives, arts and crafts and educational products, developed the Elmer’s Glue Crew Recycling Program™

The Elmer’s Glue Crew Recycling Program, launched in 2008, encourages classrooms nationwide to actively learn about recycling by collecting empty glue bottles and glue sticks to be recycled. Starting on Earth Day through the end of the school year, teachers and parent volunteers simply take their boxes of “empties” to the nearest Walmart store and drop them off with the people greeter. From there, Walmart ensures the empty products are handled by the appropriate recycling facilities.

Program participation exploded this year to more than 16,000 teachers, 83,000 classrooms and one million students, resulting in the recycling of approximately 2 million Elmer’s glue sticks and bottles.

Each year, the Elmer’s Glue Crew Recycling Program rewards a classroom for its outstanding efforts in recycling. As part of the grand prize, Elmer’s works with American Forests to plant 1,000 trees in the classroom’s honor as part of the Global ReLeaf ecosystem restoration project which often reforests wildfire decimated areas.

Teachers may register for the free program all year long at ElmersGlueCrew.com. Those teachers already registered do not need to register again each year.

Elmer’s Glue Crew Recycling Program is gearing up for the 2009-2010 campaign which will begin in late-August/early-September. Follow our progress on Twitter and Facebook.

The Giveaway:  

Our readers here at And Twins make 5! can enter to win an Elmer's Backpack stocked with things like an 8 oz. Washable School Glue, an 8 oz. Elmer's Glue-All(r), a Washable School Glue Stick, an Extra Strength Gel School Glue Jumbo Stick, an All-Purpose Glue Stick, a Washable School Glue Gel, a 3D Jumbo Glitter Paint Pen, & a No Wrinkle Glue Pen.

Enter to Win:

I ask that you simply take a moment to visit elmersgluecrew.com and then leave a comment below.

Optional Additional Entries:

• 1 extra if you become an fan of the Elmer's Glue Crew Facebook Page.
• 1 extra entry if you follow my blog or subscribe to my blog's feed.
• 1 extra entry if you tweet about this contest & include @elmersgluecrew
• 1 extra entry if you blog about this contest and link back to it.
• 1 extra entry if you digg, kirtsy, or stumble this post.

Rules:

An email address is required to enter.  Please leave it in your comment, or make sure one is visible for me to find in your blogger profile. If you qualify for additional entries please comment separately telling us which options you have used. A winner will be chosen via random.org. The winner will be contacted by email and will have 48 hours to reply before a new winner is chosen.  This contest is open to USA only.

Contest ends at noon on 9/22/09.
Thanks for Entering and Good luck to everyone!

Thinkfun Games {Review & Giveaway}

Family game night is something we really try to do at least once or twice a week in our home.  It's a great way to get all of the kids together despite their vast differences in ages and interests.  However, game nights will again become much harder to coordinate now that school events and extra curricular activities have restarted.  This is why I think it is also nice to have some games in the house that allow for solo play.

Thinkfun games recently sent us 4 games to play, and after playing them all I can see this company is very aptly named.  Each game was quite enjoyable and yet kept my kids and I using our brains along the way.  Two of the games allowed for multi person play and two are single player games.  In the multi-play category we played the games S'Match and Zingo, and in the single play category we had the chance to try Chocolate Fix and Hoppers Jr.

Chocolate Fix comes with a suggested age of 8 and up and is reminiscent of Sodoku.  However, instead of simply completing a math puzzle, a player is filling very specific candy orders.  It starts off with easier challenges and grows harder as the player goes.  Basically speaking, it gives the player hints as to where certain candy-like pieces belong on a grid playing area.  From there the player must deduce where the remaining pieces go.  Once they discover where to put a piece, they combine this knowledge with additional clues to find out more information.  We all really enjoyed this game.  It really makes you think as the clues get harder and vaguer, plus the game pieces are really cute.

Hoppers Jr. falls into the 5-7 age group.  It is a peg solitaire style games with adorable frogs.  The game comes with 40 challenges and the idea is to help the "red frog" be last frog in the pond.  Children must really think out their moves carefully to achieve this goal.  My 10 year old really enjoyed this game despite being out of the targeted age range and I later discovered there is a harder version made for the 8 to adult crowd.  I may have to pick that one up for him.

S'Match is a 4 and up game.  It puts a literal "spin" on the classic memory matching games requiring players to make matches by color, number or category based on the spin.  The spinner element really "makes" the game.  My kids and I loved that aspect and found this far more fun then the average matching games we've played in the past.

Zingo was the final ThinkFun game we had the opportunity to try.  The age suggested are 4-8.  Zingo is basically a fancy version of Bingo with some options to make the game shorter, easier, longer, or harder.  This one provides some extra fun to a classic.  Who doesn't love playing Bingo?

Why should we have all the fun?  ThinkFun would like to provide 5 of our readers with a chance to win one of their many games.

Enter:  To enter simply go to ThinkFun's website and browse the many games available.  Once you find one you like, return here and tell us in a comment below which game you would pick if you win.

Optional Additional Entries:

• 1 extra entry if you follow my blog or subscribe to my blog's feed.
• 1 extra entry if you tweet about this contest.
• 1 extra entry if you blog about this contest and link back to it.
• 1 extra entry if you digg, kirtsy, or stumble this post.

Rules:

An email address is required to enter.  Please leave it in your comment, or make sure one is visible for me to find in your blogger profile. If you qualify for additional entries please comment separately telling us which options you have used. A winner will be chosen via random.org. The winner will be contacted by email and will have 48 hours to reply before a new winner is chosen.  This contest is open to USA only.

Contest ends 9/21/09
Thanks for Entering and Good luck to everyone!  

Don't Miss these Giveaways!

Ending Today 8/21

• Old Navy $50 off $100 Coupons (OldNavyWeekly.com )

Ending Saturday 8/22

• DVDs: Sid the Science Kid & Dive Olly


Ending Sunday 8/23

• Crayola Creativity Pack (Back to School)

Other giveaways

• Jumpstart Online Membership
• PakNak (Back to School Fun!)
• Sport Guys Toy: Kaskey Kids
• The Simple Stencil (Wall Stencils)
• Yoplait Whips "Cool Down Gift"

ThinkFun Games

Bebe Bottle Sling (Twin Baby Must)

Danielson Designs: The Studio (Sign)

OldNavyWeekly.com Info & Giveaway for $50 off $100 Old Navy Coupons!

Back to school season can be an expensive time of year for our family of 5 children, so I'm always thrilled to find a good deal on items.  Which is why I've been recently checking out Old Navy's new weekly coupon hunting site OldNavyWeekly.com.

Old Navy has turned bargain hunting into a fun online quest at OldNavyWeekly.com. The amount you can save depends on a bit of luck and a bit of skill. Head to the site and start clicking around to uncover valuable store coupons. You may just find one of the big coupons!

And Lucky us ...  OldNavyWeekly.com is offering our readers the inside track on the Item of the Week and has given us the chance to give 10 of you a $50 off $100 coupon! 

First, let's talk about the new item of the week at Old Navy.  These are Old Navy's Men’s Cargo Pants, and starting Friday they’re just $19 a pair!  My son has his eye on the gray pair.

Enter to win:

Enter to win 1 of the 10 $50 off $100 coupons from OldNavyWeekly.com.  (They are electronic coupons in PDF format, so all you'll have to do is click and print if your name is

chosen.  Since they are from OldNavyWeekly.com they are good for 1 week August 21-27th.)  

To enter simply leave a comment below this post telling us which lucky guy in your life might like the Men’s Cargo Pants.  Perhaps a son, brother, hubby, or your dad?  and what color would you chose? The colors are gray, brown, khaki, and camo. 

Optional Additional Entries:

• 1 extra entry if you become a fan of Old Navy on Facebook & post on their "wall" that OldNavyWeekly and And Twins make 5! sent you.
• 1 extra entry if you follow my blog or subscribe to blog feed
• 1 extra entry if you tweet about this contest.
• 1 extra entry if you blog about this contest and link back to it & OldNavyWeekly.com.
• 1 extra entry if you digg, kirtsy, or stumble this post.

Rules:

You may only win one coupon.  The coupon may not be sold via Ebay or any other means.  An email address is required to enter.  Please leave it in your comment, or make sure one is visible for me to find in your blogger profile. If you qualify for additional entries please comment separately telling us which options you have used. A winner will be chosen via random.org. The winner will be contacted by email and will have 12 hours to reply before a new winner is chosen.  This contest is open to USA only.

Ends Quickly -- on 8/21/09 @ 11:59PM CST.

Thanks for Entering and Good luck to everyone!  

Also don't miss this Saturday's 1 day wonders!

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS NOW ENDED.

Click here for more great giveaways still going on.

Stay Tuned

Here's a quick "sneak peak" at just a few of the reviews and giveaways we are currently working on.

Zhu Zhu Pets

Baby Eggi Fall Line

Schatzi Wear

Piggy Paints

The Mommy Hook

& Pillsbury Back to School Cookies

Crayola Creativity Pack Giveaway # 4

The final Crayola giveaway on my blog is listed below, but first I'd like to announce the winner of week 3's giveaway as chosen by Random.org.

The winner is #156 Maja

As a reminder, each week's prize pack includes: 24-ct. Crayola Crayons, 10-ct. Crayola Markers, 12-ct. Crayola Colored Pencils, Crayola Pip-Squeaks Colored Pencils and Glitter Glue, Crayola Window Crayons, Tadoodles Washable Crayon Buddies, Crayola Color Explosion Black Extreme Surprises, & Crayola Color Switchers.


Here's how to enter this week: Simply leave a comment below to be entered to win this Creativity Pack from Crayola. Please make sure to include your email address in your comment or verify it is located in your blogger id.

Did you attend the GNO via twitter? Perhaps you can include something you learned at the Tuesday GNO Crayola Creativity Cast? If you missed the GNO this week don't worry, there are more to come. Click here for more information.

Optional Additional Entries:
1 extra entry if you follow this blog.
1 extra entry if you subscribe to this blog's feed.
1 extra entry if you blog about this contest and link back to it.
1 extra entry if you digg, kirtsy, or stumble a favorite post on our blog.

Rules:
An email address is required to enter. Please leave it in your comment, or make sure one is visible for me to find in your blogger profile. If you qualify for additional entries please comment separately telling us which options you have used. A winner will be chosen via random.org. The winner will be contacted by email and will have 48 hours to reply before a new winner is chosen. U.S. Entrants only.

Ends on 8/23/09 @ 11:59PM CST.

Thanks for Entering and Good luck to everyone!

Also, thanks to MyBlogSpark.com for providing us with this giveaway item.

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS NOW ENDED.

Drats! Foiled again.

After trying a couple different child proofing items, we have finally found a safety strap that actually keeps the twins from being able to open the warming drawer.

Our solution to this month long battle came in the form of a multi-purpose adjustable strap by Safety 1st.  It is adhesive backed making it easy to apply and comes in a set of 2 enabling you to use 1 or 2 on the hazard depending on the situation.  We opted for one strap on each side since we knew we would have twin 13 month olds pulling on it.

And now we happily say goodbye to pinched fingers, potential burns, and toys in the warming drawer.

My Little Roo, Baby Carrier Slipcovers

A few weeks ago, I received a My Little Roo Baby Carrier in the mail and I was really impressed by how easy it was to slide over my white Bjorn air carrier.  I found the quality of this cover to be  wonderful and was very impressed with how easily it slipped on my front carrier.  It also slid right back off so I could throw it in the wash.  Once washed I noted it to still looked and worked great.  I also want to point out it did not add a huge amount of bulk to my carrier as that was something I feared prior to it's arrival.

Why would I suggest using a slipcover for your baby carrier?

Maybe you are borrowing a friend's baby carrier and need to protect it, maybe you are protecting your own investment against mess and fading, maybe you purchased a used baby carrier that looks a tad faded or stained but works fine, maybe you want to add a little extra luxury and function to your current carrier, or maybe you would just like to make a fashion statement with one of the many vintage patterns.

My little Roo's founder, Kelsey Clark, thinks you might need one because the ubiquitous Baby Bjorn-type front carrier, while brilliant in its basic design, lacks style and function.  She created the covers to add style, function, and to prolong their use.  She added function be incorporating a front pocket in the cover enabling one to stash their iphone, binky, or car keys in it.

So which carriers work with the My Little Roo?  All Baby Bjorn carriers including synergy, active, air, original star, and original.  Plus the Lascal M1 Carrier, Snugli soft comfort vent, Infantino euro rider, and Jeep 2 in 1 pack carrier.

Last Crayola CreativityCast GNO Tonight on twitter

Click here to read my original post with all the fun details on this fun event.

Also, don't forget to enter this week's Crayola Giveaway ending tonight.

The Laptop Hideaway by Belkin

Do you know where your teen's laptop is right now?  My teenage son has his expensive Apple laptop on the floor by his bed.  The good news?  It's in an awesome new laptop hideway case by Belkin.

This just might be my favorite back to school item yet.  The Laptop Hideaway is made to sit on the floor next to your couch, bed, chair, or desk. It's purpose is to keep your laptop protected, easy to reach, and hidden away from view.  There is plenty of room for the power supply, mouse, and some school work to be conveniently stored inside with the laptop for easy access.  It works with 15.4-inch laptops or smaller (both widescreen and standard).

The Laptop hideaway comes in 2 color choices (dove gray & tarragon green like mine or chocolate brown & tourmaline blue).   It's made of a durable microfiber enabling you to spot-clean the pizza stains with a damp cloth.

While I think this would be perfect for a crowded dorm, apartment, or sorority house; I also think it should not be overlooked as the perfect option for the floor of any high school aged teen.

My youngest brother should have invented this case.  He managed to ruin the screen of his brand new laptop the first week of college by stepping on it as he got out of bed.

Silly Billyz Bibs {Review}

The twins and I are were recently asked to test a couple bibs by an eco friendly company called Silly Billyz.  Don't you just love the name?

If you haven't heard of them yet, it's probably because Silly Billyz bibs are the brainchild of  a New Zealand Mom.  This Mom of a reflux baby simply couldn't find a bib that worked for her child.  After going through all the bibs on the market, she was finally driven to produce one of her own, and Silly Billyz was born.

Silly Billyz fleece bibs are made from a soft non-pill, stain resistant fleece. These bibs are also backed with waterproof nylon to protect your little ones clothes.  I was please to notice they include the much beloved crumb catcher pocket.  I was also impressed to hear that Silly Billyz are recommended by daycare centers, because they hold up wash after wash.  And after washing them a few dozen times myself, I can see what they mean.  These bibs are built to last.

A big plus is that they don’t crack like those cheap plastic bibs and have high quality two position snaps for a comfortable, adjustable fit that is durable and secure.  I'm a fan of snaps now that my twins are older as they can't be pulled off easy like the velcro ones.

I have to say, I've reviewed a lot of different bibs with the help of the twins over the past year or so and these bibs by Silly Billyz are definitely among the top contenders in terms of practicality, comfort, and durability. 

Baby's Bath Book by Mom, Dad and Baby

I was recently sent a couple items from the company Mom, Dad, and Baby.  One of the items was an adorable counting 1-10 food themed bath book.  The book is BPA free, Phthalates Free, PVC Free and of course waterproof.

In my home the use of bath books extends past the tub.  For example, I always have one handy on the diaper changing table to distract my twin boys.  They are the perfect item to use on the diapering table because they can be sanitized easily should they meet with something icky.

I also find bath books helpful to have around when you baby grows restless at family dinner or when dining out.  Again, they can be easily wipes down when food inevitably gets on the pages.

This book features photograph style pictures of yummy numbered edibles such as 9 cupcakes and 8 carrots providing learning opportunities wherever it is used.  This is one of 3 bath books currently available from Mom, Dad, and Baby.

Danielson Designs: The Studio {Review & Giveaway}

I was recently asked to review a custom product from Danielson Designs:  The Studio.  This request was perfect timing, as I'd been on the hunt for a finishing touch to add to our newly remodeled screen in porch / hot tub room.  (You can find more details about that project in my post found here.)

What I wanted was a sign to place above the hot tub area that invoked a reminder to relax and enjoy life, but most of the signs I found were a little too "cutesy" or "obvious".  I wanted something more original.  

Once I checked out Danielson Designs:  The Studio I was thrilled to discover their business was to create exactly what I wanted.  I was able to order a custom design that matched the room and that had a mantra specifically appropriate to us.

You simply pick the design style and size you want, customize it with color and font choices and add your own text or use some of their provided suggestion.  The signs are made on knotty pine and possibilities are nearly endless.  You can make a name sign for a baby's room.  You can make an inspirational sign for hubby's office, you can make a cute welcome sign, a laundry room slogan, and so much more.  They also have frames that can be customized too.

Additionally, you'll be pleased to hear these are all made in the usa, artisan crafted, and environmentally friendly.

Our readers can get $10.00 off any purchase now through September 16th, 2009.  Simply used the following couple code.  [Promo Code: twinsmake5]

Additionally, we are giving away one custom sign or frame to a lucky winner.  The retail value is $39.95 and this prize includes free shipping.

Enter: You can enter to win by simply leaving a comment below. We'd love to hear about what kind of sign you'll make.

Optional Additional Entries:
1 extra entry if you follow this blog.
1 extra entry if you subscribe to this blog's feed.
1 extra entry if you tweet about this contest.
1 extra entry if you blog about this contest and link back to it.
1 extra entry if you place our button on your site.
1 extra entry if you digg, kirtsy, or stumble this post.

Rules:
An email address is required to enter. Please leave it in your comment, or make sure one is visible for me to find in your blogger profile. If you qualify for additional entries please comment separately telling us which options you have used. A winner will be chosen via random.org. The winner will be contacted by email and will have 48 hours to reply before a new winner is chosen. This contest is open to USA.

Ends on 9/17/09 @ 11:59PM CST.

Thanks for Entering and Good luck to everyone!

And the winner is ...

The winners of the Trix Swirls Creative Kid Gift Basket as chosen by random.org are

#82  justicecw
#166 Nancy

& The winners of the Chex Mix Turtle Bars are

#32 marissa

#8 valerie2350

#69 bleathem 

Congrats to you both!

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This post was updated on 8/17/09

*  Oops!  I only picked 1 winner for each of these originally and I had promised to pick 2 in the Trix Swirls one and 3 in the Chex Mix Turtle Bars one.  Sorry for the mistake and congrats to all the winners again.

Runaway Grocery Cart? Not with Cart Stopper

If you've ever had a grocery cart roll away from you while you were loading or unloading, you should clearly see what an amazing safety device this next item truly is.  

The Cart Stopper stops your cart from being able to roll away from you and your car by use of a giant suction cup the adheres to your vehicle itself.  This is an essential when you are shopping with children, especially multiple children.

The inventor of this device turned her back on her cart with her child inside to place her other child in the car.  While doing so, she heard someone yell as her cart was rolling away from her vehicle and directly towards another car.  While her child escaped this episode unharmed, it made this mommy inventor realize what "could" have happened and inspired her to prevent this from happening again by creating the Cart stopper device.

The Simple Stencil {Review & Giveaway}

Yesterday in the mail arrived custom wall stencils from a place online called The Simple Stencil. These were picked out for my oldest 2 sons shared room painted to match our high school's colors. This was the color scheme mutually agreed upon by both boys despite their 4 year age difference.

I had promised the boys we would add a few special touches to this shared space when they began sharing a room together right before the twins were born, however I was dreading painting on the long phrases they had asked for and successfully avoided this job for over a year.

Luckily I waited, because I found a MUCH easier way to accomplish what they wanted. The Simple Stencil website allows you to use their suggested prose or create pieces with your own wording. I simply entered the phrases I desired, pick out a font style, font size, and font color. Additionally, you are given a free single word to act as your practice piece when you order arrives.

While I thought the application process might be complicated and time sonsuming, I was wrong. This is REALLY easy to do and the results are impressive.

To apply, you simply tape the stencil to the wall adhering the tape only to the top. Once it is taped at the proper height and found to be level, you fold up the stencil and remove the backing. You then allow it to fall into place and begin the process of essentially rubbing it into place with the use of a scraper like tool. Once it has been rubbed on, you peel the top back and you are done.

I love the results, my husband loves the results, and most importantly my two sons are really excited about how it looks.



Do you have a room you would like to add something like this to? If so, you can win a $50.00 credit, free shipping, and a practice word in our The Simple Stencil giveaway.



Enter: You can enter to win by simply leaving a comment below. We'd love to hear what room you would like to decorate with a stencil.

Optional Additional Entries:
1 extra entry if you follow this blog.
1 extra entry if you subscribe to this blog's feed.
1 extra entry if you tweet about this contest.
1 extra entry if you blog about this contest and link back to it.
1 extra entry if you place our button on your site.
1 extra entry if you digg, kirtsy, or stumble this post.

Rules:
An email address is required to enter. Please leave it in your comment, or make sure one is visible for me to find in your blogger profile. If you qualify for additional entries please comment separately telling us which options you have used. A winner will be chosen via random.org. The winner will be contacted by email and will have 48 hours to reply before a new winner is chosen. This contest is open to USA.

Ends on 9/16/09 @ 11:59PM CST.

Thanks for Entering and Good luck to everyone!

Liv Doll's LivWorld.com now set to open August 17th

Just a quick update ...

Cordelia and her new Liv Doll "Alexis" checked the www.livworld.com site which was originally set to open today and discovered it is now set to have it's Grand Opening in 2 more days, August 17th.  Cordelia & I can hardly wait!

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Here's our review on the Liv Dolls by SpinMaster, just in case you missed it.  Each Liv Doll and Liv Doll accessory item includes a code to unlock items on www.livworld.com.

Back to School Gear

Today I thought I'd throw together a list of "Back to School Gear" so new and old readers can find reviews they may have missed. 

Lovable Labels

Barn Dandy Nap Mats

Locker-Works Organizer

Lunchbots

Lunch Skins

PakNaks

Mabel's Labels

To-go Ware

Crayola

Pacific Cornetta Water Bottles

Label Daddy

Safety Tats

Special Ramalama Ava Diaper Bag offer, only through "And Twins Make 5!"

Now through Sept. 15th, 2009 readers of our blog "And Twins make 5!" can buy a Ramalama Ava Diaper Bag in caramel or chocolate for $235 (instead of $365).

Readers interested in this special sale can email us andtwinsmake5@gmail.com with "Ramalama Offer" in the subject and we will forward your email on to the U.S. distributor.

To read more about this stunning leather bag check out our May review posted here.

A new doll, Liv doll by Spinmaster

My daughter Cordelia was absolutely over the moon yesterday when Ed the FedEx man dropped off a package from SpinMaster for us.  In the box was "Alexis" one of the four newly released Liv dolls, a bold new fashion doll line that Cordelia was truly dying to help me check out.

The first thing we noticed was her face, her eyes in particular.  Unlike other fashion dolls we have seen, the Liv doll has insert glass-like eyes making her look more real.  Cordelia was really impressed by how that made them look. 

We also picked up on the fact that she was far more movable and posable then other fashion dolls we've seen.  The Liv doll actually has 14 points of articulation in comparison to the average 5 or 6 on other dolls.  We adored this idea!  I mean who wants a fashion doll that can't strike a pose properly?  I can already picture all the top model style shows this Liv doll will be putting on.

However, our absolute favorite thing about Liv is her hair.  What true doll fan hasn't either been inspired to cut or take a sharpie to one of their doll's hairstyles?  Like my daughter Cordelia, I always wanted to give my dolls a makeover which included a new hair style.  This Liv doll can do just that without ruining the doll itself.  Liv has removable and interchangeable hair!  You simply take one wig off and put another one on.  Each doll comes with 2 styles and you can purchase additional styles in different colors separately.  We were sent a long pink wig accessory so we could truly see how fun this aspect was to do.  Mom's will be happy to hear that this hair change was something 8 year old Cordelia could do be herself.

In addition to being able to buy extra hair styles, you can also buy extra outfits and accessory packs for your doll.  We had an accessory pack sent that allowed us to change jewelry, shoes, and such.  Additionally, there is a salon set and a foldout playset that doubles as a storage box.  

Cordelia has already been inspired to make a Christmas list that includes "Katie" another of the 4 Liv dolls, lots of wigs and clothes, and the salon.

Liv Dolls retail in the US for $19.99.

And if your daughter has any time left after playing with her Liv dolls, they can go check out www.livworld.com which debuts August 15th.  Livworld.com provides an online place for girls to hang out.  All Liv dolls and accessory packs come with a unique access code for this site, that all unlock additional play features online.  

Cordelia has her codes ready to try this out on Saturday!