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Beach Rays Swimsuits Review and Giveaway!!!

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Beach Rays had us pick out some suits for review.  I chose the Emmet in a size 7 and the Eisley in a size 4T.  When we got them they were both huge in the waist on both boys.  However the Emmet was able to be cinched in tight with the drawstring waist, the Eisley was not.  It really seemed off to me that the Eisley would not have a true drawstring waist, no matter what we did they were falling off my four year old.  We had to try some safety pins but they were so huge it really was noticeable.

There was nothing we could do besides have them altered and there was not time to do that, so we just tried our best.  I had to reject many pics because the trunks were completely falling down. I am going to contact the company and will update to see if we perhaps got a fluke pair.  I mean my kids are slim but this was tremendously huge for a 4T.  Anyway what I can say for the Eisley is that I loved the pattern and material.  I truly wish they would have it in the bigger size because I like it so much.  The Emmet was very large but could be cinched so that they were wearable.  The Emmet was a fun pattern too and the material very soft and comfortable made of 100% Poly Micro Fiber.

Update: The company is sending us a new swimsuit as they say that must have been a defect with the Eisley and as soon as we get it I will update the review with the results.  

Update #2 We were sent the new trunks in the Ethan pattern in a size 4T and the trunks fit fine, had the fully adjustable drawstring waist and proved the Eisley defective pair we did receive was just a fluke.  The trunks stayed on so well you can see they even stayed on when Luke went on the trampoline.  Great customer service and I would recommend the suits highly.

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About Beach Rays:

Inspired by history and heritage, we seek to bring together long-standing tradition with innovative design. From the classic board shapers to the cutting-edge surf stars, our vision is to spread the good word – and great feeling – of surf lifestyle across the globe and across generations. For us, the beach is a state of mind. Beach Rays’ surf style encompasses everything from seeking a positive outlook in our lives, embracing our natural surroundings, and totally accepting our family, friends, and most importantly, ourselves.

Founded over a decade ago, the Beach Rays family has expanded to encompass all facets of surf style by creating fun and fresh fashions for men and women of all ages. Since our inception, we have been committed to utilizing only the finest materials and encouraging cutting-edge design and technology.

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Beach Rays is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings.  One lucky blog reader will be able to pick a child’s swimsuit of their choice.  Thank you Beach Rays for the review suits and for sponsoring this cool giveaway on Mommy  Ramblings.  Open to US residents.

Beach Rays Swimsuit Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:

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P’Kolino, Little Reader Toddler Chair Review & Giveaway!!!

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We are big readers in our house and I want to show you a comfy, supportive, fun and practical chair for young readers.  The P’Kolino, Little Reader, Toddler Chair comes in an assortment of colors, is made to last with furniture grade construction, is sturdy and safe, won’t tip or topple, is covered with  soft, stain and moisture resistant micro-suede that’s durable, easy-to-clean and super soft.  The chair is super light and has a handle that lets my preschooler tote it anywhere he wants to sit and read, he loves the pockets on both sides to hold his reading material.  If you are looking for a comfy chair your toddler and preschool child can use to read and relax you should look at the P’Kolino, Little Reader.

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P’Kolino is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings.  One lucky blog reader will win their own Little Reader, Toddler Chair!  Thank you P’Kolino for the review chair and for sponsoring this awesome giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.
P’Kolino, Little Reader Toddler Chair Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:
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Magic Cabin, Rubens Barn Original Doll Review and Giveaway!!!

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I have been a Magic Cabin customer for so long and they are really a company that has stood the test of time.  For being a mom for over 2 decades, I can remember when there was no online shopping and pouring over the catalog when it arrived and then placing my order over the phone or by snail mail.  Can you even imagine that now?  One thing is certain this company is here to stay and is one I can count on for original, fun, educational and active toys for kids of all ages.  Now, if you are ready for a double dose of cuteness, have I got something to share!!!

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I don’t know if I have told you before, but I love dolls and still have all of mine from when I was a child and have collected many more over the years.  I am a sucker for unique and adorable dolls.  When I saw the Rubens Barn Dolls, Original Doll Collection, I was in love!  Then I saw Magic Cabin carries the Rubens Barn Dolls Collection and I felt like I would never be able to choose between the babies that are anatomically correct, or the kids, or the party collection or the original dolls, or the…well, you get the idea.  I went back and forth and I know myself I will end up getting one of each, but I started with one of the original dolls and the choice among just those six little, adorable, pudgy toddlers was so hard.  I ended up choosing Emil because I thought my preschooler would relate to him as he seemed to have a head of crazy hair.  My preschooler has the curly hair like 2 of his siblings and believe me some days we have a struggle to tame his mane.

Do you know sometimes when you order something and you are disappointed because it’s not as great as what you saw in the pictures?  I have had that happen a few times with dolls.  However this was the polar opposite, Emil is so much more adorable and endearing in person it’s unbelievable.  His weighted bottom and size give you a whole armful to hold.  This is definitely a substantial sized doll, I would have loved to have these dolls when I was younger.

When my preschooler saw me holding him, he thought he was a real child.  Then he was amazed and could not help giving his hair a tussle, and  this big, chubby toddler a hug.  The great thing is the dolls are machine washable so they can get dirty like real kids and can partake in lots of childish fun with the kids that love them.  We decided he needed a diaper, so we added a disposable, this little guy wears a size 4 diaper to give you an idea of his size.  Then we dressed him and he was ready for  adventure whatever that may be.  I love to pose him on one of my antique school desks as he looks so sweet.  Now which one should I get next, decisions, decisions!

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Each of these handmade dolls from Rubens Barn® is fun to play with and soft to hold. The chubby, cuddly dolls have sparkly embroidered eyes, downy hair, and sweet pixie faces.

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About Rubens Barn Dolls:
Since 1995, Rubens Barn® (“Barn” means “children” in Swedish) has been creating beautiful dolls with a level of charisma, innocence, and heart, unlike any dolls on the market today. Designed in Sweden, each lovable soft-sculpted doll has a unique personality. All have the signature sparkly embroidered eyes, sweet pixie face, and weighted bottoms that make them feel much like a real baby when held. Their bodies are made from the softest fleece so that every hug is warm and comforting. 

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Each doll is machine washable. The removable clothes can be hand washed. No matter which Rubens Barn® character you choose for your own child, he or she is sure to be an enchanting friend for life.

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Magic Cabin is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!  One lucky blog reader will win their choice of doll from the Rubens Barn Original Doll Collection (subject to availability).  Thank you Magic Cabin for the review doll and for sponsoring this absolutely adorable giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.

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“My Dad Thinks He’s Funny” By Katrina Germein Review & Giveaway

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There are some great books that can help you celebrate Dad with your kids.  In anticipation of Father’s Day I will be sharing some favorites with you.  My Dad Thinks He’s Funny is a great book about a son who shares all the things his dad says and does when his dad thinks he’s funny.  Even my preschooler who is quite the jokester himself snickered as we read this, he understood all the little play on words throughout the book.  This book is a great tribute to all the funny, corny, silly dads out there and the kids that love them!

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When his son says “I’m hungry,” Dad says, “Hello, Hungry. Pleased to meet you.” Before slicing a cake for dessert, Dad announces, “There’s my piece. What’s everybody else having?” Tell Dad your foot hurts? “No problem. You’ve got another.” How is he feeling? “With my hands.” So when nothing’s up but the sky, or when jumping in the shower sounds dangerous, it may be a good time to share this book with someone who doesn’t need sugar because, well, they’re sweet enough already.

The ideal gift book for anyone whose dad makes them laugh — or roll their eyes.
Candlewick Press is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings.  One lucky blog reader will win their own copy of My Dad Thinks He’s Funny!  Thanks to Candlewick Press for the review book and for sponsoring this endearing giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.
Candlewick Press, My Dad Think’s He’s Funny Book Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:
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Buzzworthy Baby, Personalized Art For Buzzworthy Kids, Review & Giveaway!!!

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Do you want something for your baby’s room that celebrates them and your family?  Something that will remain a treasured keepsake of their unique arrival into your family?  Maybe you are searching for a truly special gift for a grandchild, Godchild, niece or nephew.  If you are, you will really want to pay close attention because  Buzzworthy Baby has personalized, unique art for Buzzworthy babies.

Buzzworthy Baby offers stylish, unique and highly personalized wall art for newborns. Their line of custom framed wall art and canvas art will be a beautiful addition to their room.

It is so easy to order your special Buzzworthy Baby art, you simply choose the style, color options and then go through the form adding the personal details that will be painted on the piece.  I was very lucky to be able to recieve a wall canvas and a framed art piece.  They are both absolutely precious and so special.  The pieces celebrate the child’s date of birth, birth weight, delivering doctor, siblings, pets and more.

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I have to say that the framed print was impossible to get a photo of, the glare was so distracting, no matter what I tried, I could not eliminate it.  The pictures do not do the piece justice and I had to try and crop and show you parts of it but still it does not look anything like the beautiful piece it is.  I may try again and see if I can get some better pictures and update.

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Framed Art Specifications:

  • Measures 16×20 and hangs horizontally
  • Comes in a high quality white metal frame
  • Covered with child-safe shatterproof plexiglass
  • Double matted with a variety of colors to choose from
  • Printed on premium gloss photo paper
  • We use “HP Vivera Inks” to ensure maximum color quality and exposure

Canvas Art Specifications:

  • Measures 14×20
  • Printed on high quality artist canvas
  • Gallery Wrapped
  • Arrives fully assembled and ready to hang

Features over a dozen points of personalization including family names, birth information, and a personalized message.

Buzzworthy Baby is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings.  One lucky blog reader will win a custom framed art piece!  Thank you to Buzzworthy Baby for the review artwork and for sponsoring this awesome giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.

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IndieFlix, Independent Film Service Review & Giveaway For 10 Winners!!!

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I have something really cool to tell you all about.  There’s this great service called IndieFlix that was founded by filmmakers who were inspired by independent filmmakers and their work. They took that inspiration and created a platform for us to get our Indie Fix.  Now we can view thousands of films that are created by some of the most brilliant and creative minds out there. IndieFlix is a subscription service that lets subscribers enjoy all the films they want for mere pennies a day!  Best of all through their unique revenue-sharing Royalty Pool Minutes (RPM) model, filmmakers get paid for every minute watched by an IndieFlix subscriber. The more you watch, the more money they make. And more money = more movies.

 

It is so easy to find whatever you’re in the mood to watch because you can browse by genre, rating, length, festival or country.  I watched two great short films today.  The House I Keep which was 11 minutes long and was about a woman coming to terms and dealing with the grief of her miscarriage.  The trailer for The House I Keep is below.

 

The other was, Weathered and was 19 minutes long about a young woman who is longing for human connection and gets it the only way she knows how…by making doctor’s appointments.  You can also rate the films and leave a comment.  You can watch right on your computer or have them stream through a Roku or Xbox.  I think it’s a great idea and a wonderful way for independent filmmakers to get a much wider audience to see their films.

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Now for the really fabulous news!  IndieFlix is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings.  10, that’s right 10 lucky blog readers are going to win a 2 month subscription to IndieFlix!  Thank you IndieFlix for my review subscription and for providing this awesome giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!

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Green Kid Crafts, Craft Box Subscription Service Review!!!

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Do you like to do crafts with your kids?  We like to do crafts and I have a lot of supplies but many parents find that it takes a lot of time to get to the creative part of crafting.  More time is spent finding inspiration, shopping for supplies and getting everything organized.  Well, Green Kid Crafts help parents get right to the fun and creative part of crafting.  A mom and woman owned business, Green Kid Crafts is a mother’s invention, created by a working mom who wanted to make the most out of the limited time she had to spend with her kids.  Green Kid Crafts is a green company that provides creative activities to do with kids through their craft kit subscription service and eco-friendly art boxes.  With Green Kid Crafts, both parents and kids can enjoy sustainable crafts and activities that spark creativity, build confidence and cultivate respect and love for the environment.

We recently spent some quality time with a Green Kid Crafts box.  Our box was #10 and celebrates World Music, containing supplies to make some fun musical instruments.  We started making the spin drum which my husband helped with and the tambourine which I assisted the kids with.  We still have a couple more instruments to make but with 2 very young little ones we have to pace ourselves so we will do the others another day.

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Everything is packaged nicely and has little cards that show you a picture of the finished product and give you the instructions as well as helpful tips and other information.  All the supplies are included and so it’s easy to just get to work. There were certain parts that my husband and I had to do because they would just be too difficult for very young children like ours, but other parts were perfect for them and it really ensures everyone cooperates and works together to get the crafts done.  Being a very musical family this box was perfect for us and we can’t wait to make the other musical instruments.

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If you are looking for an easy way to have creative time with your kids then check out Green Kid Crafts!!!

Thanks to Green Kids Crafts for supplying a Green Kids Craft box to facilitate our review.  All opinions are our own.

 


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Doc McStuffins: Time For Your Check-UP DVD Coming May 7th!!! Review and Giveaway!!!

On May 7th DOC McSTUFFINS: Time For Your Check-Up arrives on DVD May 7th! A must-add to the family viewing collection, the DVD comes packaged with 5 fun-filled episodes and a FREE growth chart.

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“DOC MCSTUFFINS: TIME FOR YOUR CHECK UP”

Arrives on DVD – May 7, 2013

Synopsis:                     
“Doc McStuffins: Time for Your Check Up!,” the second DVD compilation for Disney Junior’s hit animated TV series
 
2012’s #1 cable TV series in Kids 2-5, “Doc McStuffins” tells the story of a nurturing six-year-old girl who heals stuffed animals and broken toys out of her backyard playhouse clinic.  Assisting Doc at the clinic are her trusty team of lovable stuffed animals including: Stuffy, an overly proud dragon; Lambie, her  cuddly best friend lamb; Hallie, a jolly and caring  hippo nurse; and Chilly, a snowman who spends a lot of time getting check-ups at the clinic.  Whether it’s a case of loose stitching, low batteries or a blow-up toy who has sprung a leak, Doc and her pals are always there to lend a helping hand, while imparting to young viewers the importance of taking care of oneself and others.

We were recently sent this DVD for my review and my little guys were excited.  The love watching other episodes and DVDs of Doc McStuffins, so getting a brand new one was lots of fun.  Episode 1 of Gulpy, Gulpy Gators! is a sure favorite and Doctoring the Doc has a twist they liked but all are great!  For Doc McSuffin’s fans this DVD is a can’t miss!!!

Talent:
Kiara Muhammad (as Doc McStuffins); Loretta Devine (as Hallie); Lara Jill Miller (as Lambie); Robbie Rist (as Stuffy);
Jess Harnell (as Chilly); Jaden Betts (as Donny McStuffins); Kimberly Brooks (as Mom McStuffins); and Gary Anthony
Williams (as Dad McStuffins)
Creator/Executive Producer:
Chris Nee
Episodes:
1 – Gulpy, Gulpy Gators! / One Note Wonder
2 – Tea Party Tantrum / Blast Off!
3 – Arcade Escapade / Starry, Starry Night
4 – Bronto Boo-Boos / Brontosaurus Breath
5 – Doctoring The Doc / Hot Pursuit 
  
Street Date:                               May 7, 2013
Release Format:                       DVD
Suggested Retail Price:          $19.99 U.S./$24.99 Canada
Run Time:                                   Approx. 120 minutes
Rated:                                          TV-Y (U.S.)
Sound:                                         2.0 Dolby Digital
Languages & Subtitles:          English, Spanish and French
Disney is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings.  One lucky blog reader will win their own Doc McStuffins: Time for Your Check Up! DVD!  Thank you Disney for the review DVD and for sponsoring this great giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.
Doc McStuffins: Time for Your Check Up! DVD Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:  
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“If You Were Me And Lived In Mexico…” Book By Carole P. Roman Review & Giveaway!!!

If You Were Me And Lived In Mexico… is the first book in a series by Carole P. Roman.  This book is great for introducing young children to Mexican Culture and letting them see there are different cultures in the world.   The book starts out showing kids where Mexico is located on the globe and then discussing what the capital city Mexico City is like.  After that the book explains that if they lived in Mexico and were a boy, the names they may have and then the same for girls.  The book explains what they would call their parents if they lived in Mexico and much more from holidays, food, important places to visit and going to school.  We received our book with a little Mexican Flag that gives kids something tangible to touch, see and feel.  I think this book is great and cannot wait for the others in the series.  What a wonderful way to teach kids about the many cultures of the world.

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The author is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings.  One lucky blog reader will win their own cop of If You Were Me And Lived In Mexico...  Thanks to Carole P. Roman for the review book and  sponsoring this awesome giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!!  Open to US residents.

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Vacu Vin, Stainless Pineapple Slicer with Wedger Review!!!

My family loves fresh pineapple but one thing I notice is that no one likes to cut it, and many times we buy them with the best of intentions but we end up leaving them out too long and they go bad.  I usually am the only one that cuts them up and I have a good system but it takes time and it’s  a hassle   I was looking at the various options on Amazon.com and found the Vacu Vin, Stainless Pineapple Slicer with Wedger for only $10.60.  It had good reviews so I placed my order and couldn’t wait for it to arrive.  I was even ready with 2 fresh pineapples.

As soon as the UPS truck delivered it, I washed it and went out on the deck with a pineapple and the slicer.  It was simple to use.  You just attach the handle, cut the top off the pineapple, align the slicer so the center is over the pineapple core.  Next, turn clockwise all the way until you hit the bottom of the pineapple and you can turn it counter-clockwise to bring it back up or just pull it like I did.  Then you detach the handle and if you want rings you would be set to just remove it and slice, if you want wedges just place the wedger over the pineapple and push down and you have perfect pineapple wedges.  The entire pineapple was devoured in minutes.

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Now, I am one of those crazy people that likes to eat the core of the pineapple, I always have even before knowing the health benefits in the core.  I could not believe how delicious this core was and I know it was not the slicer but seriously it was sweet and juicy and I ate half of it before I remembered to take the picture.  So many people throw the core away.  I urge you to put it in your smoothies if you can’t eat it plain because the core contains bromelain,  

Bromelain is an enzyme well-known for its ability to prevent and speed the healing of bruises. Some cosmetic surgeons even recommend this enzyme to reduce bruising after cosmetic procedures. Bromelain inhibits the formation of the blood clots that can block blood circulation.

Bromelain has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that counter a range of chronic diseases and infections. Bromelain has been used to reduce inflammation in arthritis, sinusitis, inflammatory bowel disease, sports injuries, trauma, burns, prostatitis, and swelling after surgery. This enzyme may aid in reducing the effects of toxic organisms in your intestines as well as help antibiotics to work more effectively when you need to take them.

Bromelain works to destroy cancer cells. In fact, bromelain is already used by some clinicians as part of the chemotherapy process. A 2011 study in the peer-reviewed journal Molecular Carcinogenesis found that bromelain was effective in suppressing the growth of two kinds of human cancer cells, including melanoma cells. A 2010 study in the journal BioFactors showed that bromelain delayed growth and eventually induced the death of human breast cancer cell.

Pineapple is brimming with nutrients in addition to bromelin.  This whole food is dense with fiber, vitamin C, and phytochemicals, beneficial nutrients found only in plants. These antioxidants fight the free radicals that can damage your cells and cause disease.

So if you are looking for an easy and fun way to quickly get this superfruit from the counter to your families stomachs, try the Vacu Vin, Stainless Pineapple Slicer with Wedger.  If you are looking for an even bigger bargain you can get the Vacu Vin Pineapple Slicer for only $5.85.

 


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