Timesaver Tuesday: Know When to Say "No"

Today's tip is short and sweet and oh so hard to do. But, it is most definitely a timesaver when you can put it into effect!

I am of the personality type that wants to please others, even if it makes me unhappy sometimes. I dont' like to make anyone upset, disappointed, or unhappy. I'm a people pleaser. I feel like, for the most part, this is probably a good thing, but sometimes I need to focus on me, my family, and our needs. On the one hand, I can get along with most anyone, can work well in a group, and tend to be one that you can depend on to help you out in a bind. Great, right? But, on the other hand, I have a hard time saying "no" when asked to help someone out, take on a new responsiblitiy, go somewhere with someone, etc., so I sometimes over extend myself to the point that everyone else is pleased, and I am stressed and over tired. Thus, the exact reason everyone should know when to say "no".

As working moms, we already do a lot by going out each day and doing our part to help support our families. Then we come home and take care of a little one, either by ourselves or with a spouse's help. I can attest that these things, in and of themelves, involve a lot of time, effort, and sometimes stress. Because of this, we need to learn to say "no" if we need to. For some, this is no problem, but, if you're like me, it is a learned process. I have learned to take time to think about a request before saying "yes" or "no". This allows me the opportunity to decide whether or not I truly have the time to fulfill the request. Previously, I would have said "yes" then later wondered, "what was I thinking??". To agree to something that you don't truly hae time for will cause you and your family extra, undeserved stress, and no one needs that. You owe it to yourself and your loved ones to do what you need to do for you when you need to. It doesn't make you a worse person to say "no" once in a while; your family will appreciate it! You'll be a much better wife, mommy, friend, etc. if you know your limits!

Spring Clothes! Beautiful, Comfortable Clothing from Ingrid B. Designs {Review and Giveaway}

Congratulations to Michelle!

Result: 8 Powered by RANDOM.ORG

I absolutely adore the gorgeous outfit I received from Ingrid B. Designs to review! I am in love with beautiful fabrics, especially vintage-y florals, and was so pleased when I received this outfit. It was one that I had already fallen in love with in her store! Though this one in particular caught my eye, I can't find an outfit on her site that I wouldn't LOVE to have. One of my favorite things about Ingrid B. Designs is that her outfits are made from more unique fabrics. There are many popular fabrics that are cute, but so widely used across many sellers that nothing really looks "unique". I can honestly say that the fabrics used in Ingrid's store are different from any of those I have seen elsewhere, and of very high quality (if not higher than others). The fabric used to make the outfit I reviewed (pictured on EG) is soooo soft. It is as close as you can get to "t-shirt soft" without being made of t-shirt material. Also, it has that beautiful floral fabric print that I love. The cotton top is an altered Old Navy shirt and is so cute on it's own. It would be just as cute

with a pair of classic jeans or capris, as well as with the matching pant.

The design of the outfit is so adorable with the wide leg, gaucho capri pant and matching cotton top with flower embellishment. The ruffle along the pant hem, and on the flower, add a nice "girly" touch and help to make the outfit a little more versatile. These extra touches make the outfit easily be able to be worn dressed up or for every day wear. The pants were actually not quite capris on EG, but still looked just as cute! The wide leg also makes them very breathable and cool for my little hot-natured girl. Definitely a plus! I would take her anywhere in this outfit, no matter how casual or fancy. It is so beautiful and I don't think we passed one person that day who didn't stare at it or ask where I bought it. I wouldn't hesitate to purchase another outfit from Ingrid B. Designs and likely will very soon! Her designs are so cute, fabric choices are fabulous, and the quality is impressive. I would put this outfit up against my store bought outfits any day of the week. The outfit is professionally sewn, is

designed to last for years, and I have no doubt that it will. After being washed in the washing machine and machine dryed, the outfit was just as beautiful as when I received it! Truly!

I will definitely be keeping this beautiful set to possibly pass along to another little girl of mine, or just as a keepsake. It is of high end boutique quality and is simply stunning (as you can see!). It is obvious that Ingrid has a passion for creating clothes that are precious and will last!

From Ingrid B. Designs:

"If you are looking for stylish, chic, and high-quality crafted baby essentials and little girl’s clothing, then you have come to the right place. I take great pride in all of my creations and the quality of my work, so buy with confidence.

My love of sewing and designing begins with a love of textiles—pattern, color, and textures. This is my… creative outlet… so that I no longer drive my husband crazy wanting to redesign every room in our house. Every item you see in my store has first been tested and tried true with my own two children. Not only are my creations stylish, but they are also very durable. I know that the items you may purchase wear well, wash well, and most importantly will withstand the test of time. All of my seams are serged and finished in my pet free, smoke free studio. All products are 100% machine washable and dryable. To ensure years of enjoyment, follow the simple recommended care instructions included on the hangtag. Everything you see comes with a woven label sewn in and hangtags."

You can check out all of the great clothing that Ingrid B. Designs has to offer in her store and are sure to find something you can't live without. She is adding new designs all the time and there are some precious ones for summer! One of my favorite new outfits she is offering is this ruffle capri set (pictured right). Another favorite are the most adorable overalls you will every lay eyes on! You can also find precious baby essentials for boys and girls, including blankets, burpies, and onesies. In order to help you out a little with your purchase, because I know you will want to purchase something, Ingrid B. Designs is offering a 30% off coupon to one reader. Simply comment on the post telling me what item in her store you'd like to use the coupon on and you'll be entered win! See details below for extra entries.

To enter this giveaway follow the rules below (US ONLY):

1. For your initial, required entry, visit Ingrid B. Designs and check all of the super cute clothing she has to offer. Then come back here and leave me a comment telling me which item you'd like to use your coupon on.

To earn extra entries you may do one or more of the following and leave me additional comments here telling me which you have done:

2. Follow me on Twitter and leave a tweet about this contest. Leave me a link to your tweet as well as your Twitter name.
3. Blog about this contest to earn TWO extra entries and leave me a comment with the link to your post. **Be sure to leave TWO separate comments if you do this**
4. Follow my blog through Blogger.
5. Subscribe to my blog via e-mail.
6. Grab my button and place it on your site (w/ link to site in comment) for THREE extra entries. **Be sure to leave me THREE separate comments indicating that you have my button so that they will all be counted**
7. Enter another one of my giveaways. Leave me a comment(s) telling me which one(s).

**Be sure to leave me your e-mail address, if there is not a visible one in your profile, so that I can contact you if you win. Winners also submitted via PRIZEYWinners if you would prefer not to leave an e-mail address. This contest will end at 11:59 PM CST on Sunday, April 5. The winner will be randomly chosen via Random.org and notified on or around Monday, April 6.**

EGGcellent Easter: "Sew" Cute Personalized Shirts by Sew Cute Creations {Review}

If you are looking for an adorable personalized shirt or accessories for any holiday, birthday, or other special occasion then Sew Cute Creations is your one stop shop!  They sent me an adorable personalized Easter shirt for EG to try and it really could not be any cuter.  I chose the double Easter eggs design, but this is just one of the MANY they have to choose from (just for Easter!).  You can even choose the fabrics and colors for the Easter eggs (over 30 to choose from)!  They offer custom items for all children from babies to youth and have more designs and options (469 in their Kodak gallery of options!!) than any other store I have found!  They will completely customize your shirt (or bib, burp cloth, etc.) to your specifications down to the thread color, design, font, fabrics for appliques, and wording.  Everything in their store is definitely "sew" cute as their name implies!  If you can't find something you like for an occasion coming up, then you haven't looked closely enough. 

The materials they use are of very high quality.  The shirt I reviewed, and their standard for shirts, is American Apparel which is a known quality brand.  You can choose long or short sleeve, as well as selected colors.  The shirts are professionally embroidered and had no "scratchy" backing behind 

the embroidery.  Everything was cut away for maximum comfort while wearing, 

and it also doesn't show through on the white t-shirt (a pet peeve of mine!).

  

It washed well and still looks beautiful.  I am very pleased and will be ordering my birthday, Easter, and (special event here) shirts

 and accessories from Sew Cute Creations from now on.  Their items would make excellent gifts for parties and showers.  I hope you will check out their store and buy some items for yourself too!  Thanks for looking :)

Sweetbriar Studio Purse Organizer {Review and Giveaway} **CLOSED**

Result:

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Congratulations to the winner, Nicole!  Thanks to all who entered, making this my biggest giveaway yet!  Please come back in the future for more great products and ideas.  Thanks again!

Ever wonder how you could easily organize the main section of your purse or diaper bag?  I have often wondered this myself, but haven't found an answer.  I sometimes have the pockets and zippered sections of my diaper bag organized, but the center section is a jumbled mess.  I have things in there I probably haven't seen in three months!  The one thing I lose the most in my diaper bag is EG's pacifiers.  That is something that I just CANNOT lose!  Because, if I need to get one out of my diaper bag that means we've lost the one she had and she wants it...NOW.  When I start searching through my bag for a paci I find things in there that I thought I had lost, things that probably shouldn't be in there any more (once found an old wet diaper I had wrapped up...yeah...gross), and things I'm not sure I ever knew I had in the first place.  I finally decided enough was enough, and I had to find a solution to this problem.  After searching and searching for a purse organizer that I thought would do the trick, I found this purse organizer from Sweetbriar Studio.  I was given one to review and I can attest that my problem is solved!  It definitely does the job!!  

I was so anxiou

s to try it out and am so pleased with the result!  First, I wanted something that was pleasing to look at.  I knew I didn't want anything boring, bulky, cheap looking, etc.  After browsing through the selection of beautiful purse organizers at Sweetbriar Studio, I knew I could move on the the next requirement.  They are so cute you almost don't want to put them in your bag!  Second, I wanted something that was large enough to actually be useful and fill up the bottom of my diaper bag.  Check!  

The purse organizer is 10" wide, 6" tall, and 2.5" deep.  It fit perfect in my Vera Bradley tote that I use for my diaper bag.  Next, I needed to make sure that it had plenty of storage pockets for all of the little things I carry all the time (i.e. pens, sunglasses, PACIFIERS :), etc.).  Check!  There are 10, yes I said 10, little pockets to store everything you would ever need to store in there!  There are pockets on the outside of the organizer, the inside of the organ

izer, and then the large center pocket.  The center pocket was a perfect size to drop in a few diapers and a travel pack of wipes.  It would also be perfect to drop your wallet in!  The outer and inner pockets can store anything, and they are of varying sizes so you can choose which pocket you want to use for which items.  I love that there are pockets small enough that my pens can't really fall over and leak.  There is also a perfect pocket for my Flip Note.  Finally, it cuts out the hassle of changing purses or bags.  All you have to do is pick it up and transfer it to another bag.  There is no hassle and everything stays organized.   And if all of those great features aren't enough...it is also machine washable!

I have only used the purse organizer for a couple of weeks and I don't know what I would do without it.  

I think it is one of the most FABULOUS products I have ever tried, truly.  It is the perfect size, has more pockets than I have even

 found a use for, is easy to transfer from one bag to another, and is beautiful all on it's own!  It helps me to find things quickly and easily, which is exactly what I need as a busy working mom.  What more could a girl ask for?  One for FREE you say??  Well...Sweetbriar Studio has agreed to do a giveaway of one of their purse organizers to one SUPER lucky reader!  See details below for how to enter, and go check out the other great items that Sweetbriar Studio has to offer.  These purse organizers would make a great gift for Mother's Day coming up!  

To enter this giveaway follow the rules below (WORLDWIDE - if shipping to countries other than US and CANADA, winner will pay the difference):

1. For your initial, required entry, visit Sweetbriar Studio and check out all of the great things they have to offer.  Then come back here and post a comment letting me know which purse organizer  you would like if you win or what your favorite item in the shop is.

To earn extra entries you may do one or more of the following and leave me additional comments here telling me which you have done:

2. Follow me on Twitter and leave a tweet about this contest. Leave me a link to your tweet as well as your Twitter name.
3. Blog about this contest to earn TWO extra entries and leave me a comment with the link to your post. **Be sure to leave TWO separate comments if you do this**
4. Follow my blog through Blogger.
5. Subscribe to my blog via e-mail.
6. Grab my button and place it on your site (w/ link to site in comment) for THREE extra entries. **Be sure to leave me THREE separate comments indicating that you have my button so that they will all be counted**
7. Enter another one of my giveaways. Leave me a comment(s) telling me which one(s).

**Be sure to leave me your e-mail address, if there is not a visible one in your profile, so that I can contact you if you win. Winners also submitted via PRIZEYWinners if you would prefer not to leave an e-mail address. This contest will end at 11:59 PM CST on Saturday April 4. The winner will be randomly chosen via Random.org and notified on or around Sunday, April 5.**

Wordless Wednesday: Spring Break Collage!

eieio Girl's Roundabout Dress {Giveaway} **CLOSED**

Here are your random numbers:

21 

Timestamp: 2009-04-03 00:36:01 UTC

Congratulations to the winner, Hana!  Thanks to all who entered!

Up for grabs is a super cute, reversible roundabout dress from Etsy seller eieio!  The tagline for eieio is "as playful and unique as the children who wear it".  I think this adorable little roundabout dress is definitely playful and unique!  In fact, that's what caught my eye.  The fact that it is reversible really makes it two dresses in one, and it can also be worn through more than one season depending on how you pair it with other items (i.e. leggings, long sleeve shirt, etc.).  It also looks like it would be comfortable and perfect for play!  I contacted eieio and they agreed to give away the Carnaby St. Roundabout Dress in a custom size up to 3T.  They are so precious!

From the eieio store:

"This dress can be anything - a jumper now, layered over a long sleeve shirt and tights or pants, a sundress next season, and as your little one grows: a swingtop or tunic.

It's reversible, so really you get two dresses in one. Can be dressed up with tights and fancy shoes or casual over jeans and sneakers for playing. If you're out and about and it gets a little dirty, just take it off and turn it around and you're ready to go again!
The shoulders fasten with strong, colored, stainless steel snaps.

I still buy my fabric in small amounts, so you will usually only see 1-3 of each dress. I like to keep them unique!

Each piece has a woven fabric label and hangtag. Great for gifts!"

I think the style is adorable and so perfect for working moms on the go!  Don't have time to change your little girl's outfit?  Just turn it around!  Genius!  See details below for how YOU can enter to win this cute dress from eieio.  

To enter this giveaway follow the rules below (US ONLY):

1. For your initial, required entry, visit eieio and check out all of the cute children's clothes they have to offer.  Then come back here and leave me a comment telling me your favorite item.

To earn extra entries you may do one or more of the following and leave me additional comments here telling me which you have done:

2. Follow me on Twitter and leave a tweet about this contest. Leave me a link to your tweet as well as your Twitter name.
3. Blog about this contest to earn TWO extra entries and leave me a comment with the link to your post. **Be sure to leave TWO separate comments if you do this**
4. Follow my blog through Blogger.
5. Subscribe to my blog via e-mail.
6. Grab my button and place it on your site (w/ link to site in comment) for THREE extra entries. **Be sure to leave me THREE separate comments indicating that you have my button so that they will all be counted**
7. Enter another one of my giveaways. Leave me a comment(s) telling me which one(s).

**Be sure to leave me your e-mail address, if there is not a visible one in your profile, so that I can contact you if you win. Winners also submitted via PRIZEYWinners if you would prefer not to leave an e-mail address. This contest will end at 11:59 PM CST on Wednesday April 1. The winner will be randomly chosen via Random.org and notified on or around Tuesday, April 2.**

Timesaver Tuesday: Prepare Ahead Meals - Busy Mom's Cookbook

Today I want to share with you a website that has made meal times a little easier around our house, and has definitely saved us time. I would love to eventually try to do once a month cooking in order to save money and time throughout each week. But, I just can't get it together to cook for a whole afternoon or day! However, I did want to find something that was easy to prepare ahead of time (but didn't require cooking all afternoon!), freeze, and throw in a pan to cook when needed. In searching, I came across the Busy Mom's Cookbook blog. She has GREAT recipes for everyday use, but I also found some awesome Dump Chicken recipes. Twenty one recipes to be exact! The ingredients for the dump chicken recipes are designed to be dumped (hence, the name) into a ziploc bag, frozen, and cooked when your ready. We have tried several of the recipes and have found them to be quite tasty, and super easy! To fix 4 or 5 bags of chicken takes maybe 10 minutes. Our favorites are the Chili Maple Glazed chicken and Honey Sesame chicken. We usually bake them in the oven per the instructions from the site, but you can also use your crockpot or grill. This has saved us so much time in preparing meals each night, and also cleanup. One of these chicken dishes only dirties up whatever you cook it in. You don't have to get out any ingredients, mixing bowls, etc. We love 'em! We've even tried them with pork instead of chicken also! They're great, but if you are looking for something else, Busy Mom's Cookbook has TONS of other recipes designed with busy moms in mind. The dump chicken recipes are just one of the many, many blog posts on her site. I'd love to hear your tips for saving time in the kitchen!

Kids Konserve - Cute, Reusable Waste Free Lunch Kits! {Coupon Code for EVERYONE!}

I stumbled across Kids Konserve one day while searching for a reusable lunch kit made for kids. I don't pack EG a lunch yet, but I know my husband and I have wasted so many plastic bags, forks, etc. by taking our own lunch over the years. I wanted to find a great kids lunch kit that EG will be able to take with her once I begin packing her lunch, because I know I want to instill in her the responsibility to be more "green" rather than being unnecessarily wasteful. I instantly liked the Kids Konserve kits because specifically created for kids, include everything you need, and have such cute colors and designs. They also offer other products, including their brand NEW Party Pak (a resuable party kit for classroom parties, picnics, etc.) and all of their lunch kit items sold separately!

Here is some more information about the company:

"Kids Konserve got started by two mom's and an interest in doing something for the environment.Choose to REUSE and REDUCE: Kids Konserve is greening the way we pack our lunches and snacks. Waste-free lunch kits and eco-cool reusable lunch products... Toss out the baggies, fold up the foil, Kids Konserve empowers children and parents to do their part in saving the environment. Kids Konserve challenges children and families to cut down on the waste created by packing lunches, while teaching about the importance of reuse. The company was sparked by the amount of trash that was coming home from our preschooler's lunch. We took what has been a family endeavor, reducing the amount of trash we put into the landfills, and made it a business that will help all families. Kids Konserve offers its reusable lunch products directly to individuals, families and also as a fundraising opportunity in schools. Kids Konserve can help lead to a major savings in our landfills and hence reduce greenhouse gases. All items are made from the safest non-leaching materials available and all items are sold separately (find more products such as a thermos, tiffin, and mini stainless steel containers (great for dips, dressings, seasonings at http://store.kidskonserve.com/). Making it easier for you and for our planet; Kids Konserve. Go waste-free this Earth Day!

Kids Konserve has launched their Blog. Look forward to tips, education, encouragement, and stories (Stay tuned for "What's in your thermos?", "Small Voices, Big Ideas", "Why stainless steel?" and more). http://www.kidskonserve.com/blog/

I contacted them and told them how I loved their kits, and they agreed to give all of my readers a coupon code for 10% off of your Kids Konserve purchase. I hope you will take a look at all of the wonderful items they have for sale that will help your family to be "greener". I'm going to be trying out the lunch kits myself! Just enter the code "mommyworks" at checkout to receive your discount. Thanks to Kids Konserve!

Back to Work!

Well, Spring Break has ended and it's back to work tomorrow. I always get so irritable and antsy the day before I go back when I've had a little break! However, I am thankful that I am in a profession where we are allowed these nice breaks throughout the year. I truly think that it is for our sanity and the childrens' safety that teachers and students get the breaks we do throughout the year...LOL.

Anyway, throughout this break I have become more aware of some things I'm not sure I would have ever become aware of were I not a working mom. I have always found that since I am away from EG all day during the work week, I truly appreciate every second that I spend with her. Now, I'm certainly not saying that stay at home or work at home moms don't appreciate the time they spend with their kids, but I know that working keeps it at the forefront of my mind all the time. The highlight of my day, every day, is picking her up in the afternoons. I am just as happy to see her as she is to see me. I also find that I try very hard to make the most of the time I spend with her in the evenings, on the weekends, and during breaks. Sure there are things that have to be done like grocery shopping, house work, etc. But, I still try to include EG in those things by taking her with me to the grocery store rather than leaving her at home (even though that would be much faster and easier at times!!) or letting her "help" me with chores around the house. I just love spending time with her! I think that maybe if I stayed at home it might be easier for me to take for granted the time I have with her, but working makes me realize how precious it is. One day maybe I'll be able to stay home with her full time, and if that day comes I know that my experience as a working mom will have done nothing but help me to appreciate staying at home even more.

Even though we were not able to go on vacation this Spring Break, it has been one of my favorites so far. Also, since my husband is not currently working due to being laid off, we were able to spend time together as a family all week. It has actually been one of my favorite Spring Breaks so far! We have had more fun together this week than in the last few months combined. We've been to the park, on walks, digging for worms, planting flowers, to the zoo (so fun!), and just enjoyed sleeping in. Loving life right now!

Just some thoughts from a mom trying to feel better about going back to work tomorrow...

I think it may have worked :)

EGGcellent Easter: Asher Jasper Mini Felted Wool Animals {Review and Giveaway} **CLOSED**

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Congratulations to the winner, Melanie!

These little wool balls are just too cute for words! They are the perfect Easter goody and would look so cute sitting in your little one's Easter basket! Vicky at Asher Jasper provided me with an animal of my choice to review, and we chose the little yellow chick. EG loves ducks and birds, so that was the perfect choice for us. It came packaged so nicely in its own box, wrapped in pretty green tissue paper. The box has the Asher Jasper logo and would be perfect for gift giving! The ball was so cute and was the perfect size for little hands. EG immediately recognized that it was a "duck" (close enough...) and enjoyed carrying it around the house in her hand. It was like she had something that was just her size, and she knew it. EG is funny about different textures and I thought that wool may be a little harsh for her. However, the chick was very soft and EG didn't have any trouble with the texture. Vicky makes several different kinds of wool animals, as well as other beautiful, natural handmade gifts and play sets. It is obvious that she takes a lot of time to create her wool play items, and the end result is awesome! Her egg box animal ball set (below) is one of my favorites for Easter. It comes with six animal balls nested in a little egg carton. So precious! I hope you will check out Asher Jasper for some unique, natural toys for your child's Easter basket. I guarantee no other child you know will have them! Unless, of course, you refer them to Asher Jasper as well. You also have a chance to WIN one of the animal balls of your choice right here! See details below for entering. Thanks to Vicky of Asher Jasper for such a wonderful, unique product!

To enter this giveaway follow the rules below (US ONLY):

1. For your initial, required entry, visit Asher Jasper and check out all of the beautiful handcrafted toys she has to offer. Then come back here and leave me a comment telling me your favorite item.

To earn extra entries you may do one or more of the following and leave me additional comments here telling me which you have done:

2. Follow me on Twitter and leave a tweet about this contest. Leave me a link to your tweet as well as your Twitter name.
3. Blog about this contest to earn TWO extra entries and leave me a comment with the link to your post. **Be sure to leave TWO separate comments if you do this**
4. Follow my blog through Blogger.
5. Subscribe to my blog via e-mail.
6. Grab my button and place it on your site (w/ link to site in comment) for THREE extra entries. **Be sure to leave me THREE separate comments indicating that you have my button so that they will all be counted**
7. Enter another one of my giveaways. Leave me a comment(s) telling me which one(s).

**Be sure to leave me your e-mail address, if there is not a visible one in your profile, so that I can contact you if you win. Winners also submitted via PRIZEYWinners if you would prefer not to leave an e-mail address. This contest will end at 11:59 PM CST on Saturday March 28. The winner will be randomly chosen via Random.org and notified on or around Sunday, March 29.**

Spring Clothes!: Little Ace Lounge Sets for Girls AND Boys {Review and Giveaway} **CLOSED**

Result:

61

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Congratulations to the winner, Donna!  Thanks to all who entered!

If you are looking for an outfit that is the ultimate in comfort and style, Little Ace has what you are looking for! I was sent one of the lounge sets for EG to try and I am already thinking about purchasing another! It is too cute, soooo comfortable, and I received a number of compliments on it within the first hour she had it on. She wore it to a birthday party at an indoor playground, and was able to climb and run and jump in style! The lounge sets from Little Ace are truly wonderful casual outfits. They are perfect for play or just lounging around the house, and still totally appropriate for wearing out around town. The pants have an elastic waistband, are lightweight, and are made from a beautiful Michael Miller fabric. Little Ace offers different Michael Miller fabrics, and other high quality fabrics as well (Amy Butler, etc.), so there is something to suit anyone's tastes. The top is a basic white European snug fit t-shirt with a circular applique from the same fabric as the pants. The applique adds a nice detail to the top, making it much cuter than your plain white t-shirt, but just as comfy! It also makes it a perfect match to the bottoms. What you end up with is an outfit that is adorably stylish, while being as comfortable (maybe more!) as pajamas! I have no doubt that EG loves to wear this set because there is just no reason she wouldn't. Now if it only came in my size! I would feel completely comfortable letting EG wear this set to day care, and she'd still be the most stylish little one to walk in the door. The outfit washed very well and is of super quality; obviously professionally sewn. These lounge sets are the perfect solution for any mom who is looking for a super cute outfit that their child can wear all day, and will want to wear all day...every day. Another standout of Little Ace is that they also offer lounge sets for BOYS, yes, boys! I know it's hard to find cute handmade clothes for little boys, but they have some great fabrics that would look great on your little man! If you'd like to try one for your own little one, head on over to Little Ace right now and check em out! Heck, at $35 you may just want to get two or three sets! While you're there, go ahead and check out the other items they have to offer as well. They have light cotton sleep sacs with appliques much like the lounge sets (only $13!), adorable bibs and burp cloths($9.50 and $15.00) , and beautiful minky blankets ($40). The same fabrics are used with all of these items, so buy a matching set! They would make great gifts! Since I know you will want to buy something, Little Ace is also offering a giveaway to help you out with your purchase...a $10 gift card! See details below for how to enter.

To enter this giveaway follow the rules below (US ONLY):

1. For your initial, required entry, visit Little Ace and check all of the great baby items they have to offer. Then come back here and leave me a comment telling me your favorite item or your favorite fabric for the lounge sets.

To earn extra entries you may do one or more of the following and leave me additional comments here telling me which you have done:

2. Follow me on Twitter and leave a tweet about this contest. Leave me a link to your tweet as well as your Twitter name.
3. Blog about this contest to earn TWO extra entries and leave me a comment with the link to your post. **Be sure to leave TWO separate comments if you do this**
4. Follow my blog through Blogger.
5. Subscribe to my blog via e-mail.
6. Grab my button and place it on your site (w/ link to site in comment) for THREE extra entries. **Be sure to leave me THREE separate comments indicating that you have my button so that they will all be counted**
7. Enter another one of my giveaways. Leave me a comment(s) telling me which one(s).

**Be sure to leave me your e-mail address, if there is not a visible one in your profile, so that I can contact you if you win. Winners also submitted via PRIZEYWinners if you would prefer not to leave an e-mail address. This contest will end at 11:59 PM CST on Saturday March 28. The winner will be randomly chosen via Random.org and notified on or around Sunday, March 29.**

EGGcellent Easter: WIN Your Own Easter Tote FULL of Goodies Courtesy of Mimi and Reese!! {Giveaway} **CLOSED**

**Congratulations to the winner, Gayla! Thank to all who entered and I hope you all had fun and will visit again soon! Thanks!**

Why buy an Easter basket full of treats when you can WIN one right here? I am partnering with Mimi and Reese to offer you a FANTASTIC Easter giveaway! This time it's for mom, and it's a personalized tote fill will all kinds of goodies that any working mom would love to have! In fact, any mom would love to have! What's included? First of all, the winner will get to choose a personalized tote from Mimi and Reese's Etsy shop in the design/colors of their choice. That's EGGcellent in and of itself! But, also included are the following:

- Coffee Bling coffee cozy (also from Mimi and Reese)
- spring m&ms
- Bible Belt Brew coffee
- a cute crayon roll for your little one
- a tin of gypsy tea
- AND a few other suprises that have yet to be named!

The rules for entering are simple and are as follows:

1. Leave a comment here answering the question "what do you want in your Easter basket this year?"
2. Follow and/or subcribe to my blog.
3. Visit the blog of Mimi and Reese and post a comment on the giveaway post there.
4. Follow Mimi and Reese.

**Please leave only ONE comment (on each blog) indicating that you have followed all of the steps. Thanks!**

Simple as that!


This giveaway will end at 12:01 A.M. CST on Monday March 30. Good luck to everyone!!

Spring Clothes!: Classy, Comfortable Clothing from Fabric, Yarn, and Design

Looking for a beautiful, comfortable, and classic spring outfit? Then look no further than the gorgeous clothing and accessories from Fabric, Yarn and Design. I contacted Jamie, the mastermind behind these outfits, after I saw the beautiful coral outfit (pictured) in her Etsy store. I loved it online and she provided me with the outfit to review. I was even more impressed with the quality and design in person! The outfit was packaged and wrapped so nicely too! I love the beautiful coral eyelet fabric on the top and cuffs, as well as the soft, knit pants. I know knit is SO comfortable, so I especially love that feature of the outfit! As you all know, I have also been looking for items that can go through many seasons. The swing top style is definitely one that can. It is perfect on a hot summer day by itself, or with short or long sleeves if it's cooler. This particular set is also very versatile because it is comfortable enough for casual wear and play, but so classy it can also be worn as a more dressy outfit. It would be beautiful for spring or Easter pictures!

What really made me fall in love with this outfit, and the others that Jamie offers, are the little details that add little something extra. First, the top has a matching coral piping that adds the finishing touch to the bottom, as well as helps the top to hold its shape. When worn, the top will keep its pretty shape all day! Another beautiful feature is a sewn bow on the front of the top, at the waist, and on the pant cuffs. I am horrible at tying a nice looking bow, so the fact that these are already tied, and will stay tied, is great! The bows also add a nice "fancy" touch. Another great feature is the wide, elastic waistband that helps to make these pants even more comfortable. EG did not have any marks on her from the waistband, and they also stayed on great! She played all day in these I didn't feel like I was having to constantly pull them up! A few other things I loved are the ric rac detailing on the straps, elastic around the back of the top for a great fit, matching cotton lining on the top, adjustable button straps, and fabulous accessories that complete the outfit. I purchased two ribbon bows to match (one pictured), and they were also of very high quality and looked beautiful with the outfit. Other accessories offered (just for this outfit alone!) are another set of smaller matching bows, an adorable purse, and little matching flowers for your little one's Crocs. Who could ask for more!? Jamie truly thought of every detail when creating her clothes and I know you will be so pleased with whatever you purchase. The coral capri outfit that I reviewed is priced at $32, which is an unbelievable price for such a detailed, professionaly sewn outfit. You can also take a look here at other children's clothing and accessories she has to offer ($10 to $32). I urge you to check out Fabric, Yarn, and Design to find your perfect spring outfit for portraits or play!

Wordless Wednesday: First Wagon Ride of the Year

Spring Clothes!: Water Lily Capri Set from Designs by Barb

The first outfit in this spring/summer lineup is a beautiful toddler capri set from Barbara at Designs by Barb (togs4tots on Etsy). I love sets because not only are the pieces adorable together, but they can mix and match with other pieces you probably already have. The fabric she uses to make these outfits has gorgeous prints and is of very high quality. The particular set I reviewed uses beautiful coral, pink, yellow, and green Michael Miller water lily fabrics. The top has the water lily print, and the bottoms are made from a coordinating stripe fabric. As an added detail on these sets, Barbara adds a little applique to the pants; in this case a water lily. So cute!

The little swing top ties at the shoulders with pink ribbons and can be worn as is, with short sleeves underneath, or even long sleeves for cooler weather. Barbara also states on the listing that it would even be cute as a swimsuit cover up. I definitely agree! It is just beautiful to look at, and even more beautiful on. It has the right amount of flare so that it is comfortable and breathes well. This is great for our HOT summers here in Alabama! The pants have a cuff at the bottom which adds a nice "finished" look. They are lightweight, have a wide leg (great breathability again!), and have a comfortable elastic waistband. A great feature of the waistband is that it is secured so that the elastic does not twist. I know it drives me crazy to constantly straighten out twisted elastic every time I pull EG's pants on, so this is a nice feature! EG enjoyed playing in this outfit and seemed very comfortable. She had more than enough freedom of movement to climb, run, sit on the floor and play, etc. After all of this playing, the outfit washed very well and looked good as new after a quick run over with a warm iron. I feel confident that the set will last wash after wash. We love the outfit and I am sure it will quickly become a warm weather favorite!

The set is professionally crafted, and Barbara custom makes each item in her store just for you. She makes clothes in infant sizes all the way up to a girls' 14. The prices are terrific for a custom "boutique" outfit at $30 for the set reviewed (slightly higher for larger sizes). If a capri set is not what you're looking for, she also makes adorable dresses (priced $22 to $40), jumpers and pinafores ($20 to $28), girls and boys pants ($10 and $12), girls skirts ($18 to $25), infant clothes ($4 to $36), girls aprons ($8.50 to $18), and accessories ($6 to $20). Go check out Barbara's store and see for yourself! Your child will look adorable (and be comfortable!) while playing, and will look just as adorable for a day out on the town. Thanks Barbara for offering these beautiful clothes!

Spring Clothing Extravaganza: Reviews and Giveaways Galore!

I love to find and buy cute clothes for EG! I have never really understood the concept of "daycare clothes" and have always dressed her like I would every other day, with the exception of certain "nicer" outfits. Most of the time the "nicer" outfits she has are the cutest, but they just aren't practical for play, and are usually too pricy to replace if something were to happen to them at daycare. I love to buy those beautiful boutique outfits (on sale!), but she only gets to wear them on the weekends. Oh, the dilemma for a working mom who loves clothes! Because of this, for the past several weeks I have been on the lookout for SUPER cute clothes that are comfortable enough for play, won't break the bank, are washed easily (in case of those inevitable daycare mishaps), and are versatile so that you get the most bang for your buck (can be worn across many seasons, casual and dressy, etc.). Until the end of March, I will be sharing clothes with you from several different designers whose clothes fit these characteristics. I know you'll love them! Check back daily for new clothing reviews, and great giveaways!

New Blog Design by Emily June Design Studio!

I'm sure you all have noticed that Mommy Works blog has a new design. I love it and hope that you guys do too! I have to give a big thank you to Emily at Emily June for creating such a beautiful site. She was wonderful to work with and, obviously, does great work. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Some new features that have been added, along with the new design are a navigation bar for finding your way around the site a little easier, and a "Blog Events" link list on the sidebar. There you will find any special events currently going on at Mommy Works blog. Enjoy and thanks for visiting!

**Please also update my button if you have it on your site, and feel free to grab it and add it if you don't. Thanks**

EGGcellent Easter: Kid and Kaboodle Customized Crayon Roll {Review and Giveaway} **CLOSED**

Result:

25

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Congratulations to the winner, lil miss' mama!  You will have 48 hours to contact me or another winner will be chosen.  Thanks to all who entered!

Now here is an Easter basket goody that any mom can appreciate! It is super cute, personalized with your child's name, contains NO sugar (lol), is useful well beyond Easter, and will look fabulous sitting in an Easter basket! Let's admit it, there aren't many things you've found for your child's Easter basket that can fulfill all of those characteristics. At least I know I haven't ever found any. If you want the perfect little gift for Easter, I think the customized crayon roll from Kid and Kaboodle is it! We received ours from Donna at Kid and Kaboodle the other day and, although I am going to put it in EG's Easter basket, we had to try it out for the review.

Before I talk about how handy this little crayon roll is to have, I want to mention how pretty it is. The fabrics used to create the roll are of nice quality and the colors and patterns are so beautiful and vibrant for spring! Also, between the fabric layers is an extra layer of padding that makes the roll not only a little softer, but adds some stability and sturdiness. It has nine crayon slots that will fit nine jumbo crayons or 18 regular size crayons (2 in each slot). It will also fit markers and colored pencils too! As you can see, we used the jumbo crayons. They fit very nicely and stayed in well! When you're finished with the crayons, simply roll it up and fasten it closed with the attached strap (you can choose a ribbon or velcro closure). When it is rolled up, it is great size to toss in your purse or diaper bag and take on the go. Perfect for the doctor's office, grandma's house, restaurant, or anywhere else you might go!

I loved the idea of this crayon roll because, as a working mom, I have EG with me all the time when I am not at work. I even keep her in the church service with me (most of the time) until she just can't sit there any more. I figured church would be a great place to test out the usefulness of this little crayon roll. Usually I can find something to entertain her for a while, but then she gets too antsy to stay (as any toddler would!). I thought that being able to color, and having a neat place to keep the crayons, might entertain her for a little longer. To my delight, it did! First of all, she loved carrying it around, all wrapped up. I guess she thought she had something special :). Then when we opened it up and she saw the crayons, she was thrilled. She immediately took some out and began coloring in the coloring book we brought. She entertained herself until nearly the end of service! Between taking the crayons in and out of their little pockets (this entertained her as much as coloring did!), rolling and unrolling it, playing with the velcro, and coloring, she loved it! Beyond the crayons being in there, she found some very imaginative ways to put the crayon roll to use. I will most certainly be taking it with us to her 18 month appointment this week! And then I'll put it in her Easter basket...

At $12.50, including personalization, they are a great price to include in your Easter baskets! She offers a few different designs for both boys and girls!

I hope you'll check out the crayon rolls and other great items, Easter and everyday, that Kid and Kaboodle has to offer. Their tagline is "everything custom for baby", and they surely live up to it! Some of my other favorites from the store are the Here Comes Peter Cottontail Dress/Bib/Shoes Set, the Cuddle Me Sleep Sack (custom sized for your baby, including older babies/toddlers! Her #1 seller!!), and her beautiful custom nursery sets. She has something there for everyone, whether you are looking for a shower gift (burp cloths, woobies, etc.) or for yourself. Check them out!

If you find something you love at Kid and Kaboodle, and I KNOW you will, enter the code "mommy" at checkout to receive a free customized crayon roll with any $75 order! This offer is just for my readers, so I'd love for you to take advantage of it. I'm certain you'll love anything you find! Kid and Kaboodle has also been generous enough to offer a crayon roll for giveaway. See details below for how to enter to win and don't forget that you can receive a free roll with your $75 purchase (code "mommy"). Thanks to Donna at Kid and Kaboodle for such a great store and for allowing me to host this review and giveaway!

To enter this giveaway follow the rules below (US ONLY):
1. For your initial, required entry, visit Kid and Kaboodle and check all of the great custom baby items she has to offer. Then come back here and leave me a comment telling me your favorite item (other than those mentioned here).

To earn extra entries you may do one or more of the following and leave me additional comments here telling me which you have done:

2. Follow me on Twitter and leave a tweet about this contest. Leave me a link to your tweet as well as your Twitter name.
3. Blog about this contest to earn TWO extra entries and leave me a comment with the link to your post. **Be sure to leave TWO separate comments if you do this**
4. Follow my blog through Blogger.

5. Subscribe to my blog via e-mail.
6. Grab my button and place it on your site (w/ link to site in comment) for THREE extra entries. **Be sure to leave me THREE separate comments indicating that you have my button so that they will all be counted**

7. Enter another one of my giveaways. Leave me a comment(s) telling me which one(s).

**Be sure to leave me your e-mail address, if there is not a visible one in your profile, so that I can contact you if you win. Winners also submitted via PRIZEYWinners if you would prefer not to leave an e-mail address. This contest will end at 11:59 PM CST on Wednesday March 25. The winner will be randomly chosen via Random.org and notified on or around Thursday, March 26.**

Little Brown Crane SnuglyMat XL Nap Mat {Review}

A few weeks ago, the lady that keeps EG while I work and I were talking about how she might like for EG to try using a cot rather than a crib for nap time. I don't really know when you're supposed to move from a crib to a cot (or toddler bed for home), but I figured EG would probably do okay on it. So I said, "okay let's give it a try tomorrow". Well, when I came to pick EG up that very afternoon she had a huge, red bump on her forehead and guess what it was from...climbing out of her crib and landing on the floor (never having even attempted this before...)about 5 minutes before I made it there to pick her up. I guess this was our sign...she needed a cot. I tell you this story to say that this event is what led me to find the cutest, most comfortable, most AWESOME nap mat for EG to use each day. And, I think I've found all of those characteristics in the SnuglyMat XL from Little Brown Crane.

Little Brown Crane graciously provided me with one of their custom SnuglyMats to review and I could not be happier that they did. EG has thoroughly enjoyed using her nap mat each day and I am quite sure that she is snuggly and comfortable during naps with all of the mat's wonderful features. But, before I begin gushing over my love for this mat, here is some info on the SnuglyMat from the Little Brown Crane store:

"This super cute SnuglyMat is roughly 21" X 54" and is fully machine washable! It has a cotton front and a chenille back, as well as a double sided minky blanket! It's perfect for your little one to tote to school. SnuglyMats have an attached pillow and blanket, and come with a convenient carrying strap so your little one can carry it themselves! To wash your SnuglyMat, simply unroll, toss in the washer, and then straight into the dryer. It's as simple as that! Your SnuglyMat has been designed for durability and to provide many years of use!"

I can attest to the high quality of the SnuglyMat! The fabrics used are not only beautiful, but are of high-end quality and wash very well. And, at $55 the price is excellent for a completely custom mat! I searched through several sites and stores and found many nap mats that were over $100 for the same quality. You will definitely get your money's worth out of this one. The mat I chose (pictured) uses Amy Butler cotton fabrics in pinks, greens and browns and has a dark brown chenille back. It is gorgeous! All mats include a nice, plush attached pillow; and a removable pillow can be added as a $10 option. When rolled up, it can be secured with a button on each end (pink flowers on this one). It also includes a handy carrying strap and has the option of a beautiful name applique. The applique is made from one of the high quality fabrics used in the mat and can be added for an additional $12. I think this is so cute and different from your traditional embroidered monogram! Even though all of these features are FABULOUS, my favorite feature (and EG's too!) is the unbelievably soft and snuggly attached minky blanket. The nap mats that I usually see around town and online have a thin cotton blanket or sheet attached to them which makes the SnuglyMat's minky blanket seem so luxurious! It is minky on both sides and is the perfect thickness. Great for snuggling with! EG is very hot natured and doesn't like to be covered with a blanket, but she loves to snuggle with the blanket next her and rub her hands on the soft texture. Heck, I like it too! Hubby was trying to freeze me out of the car yesterday and I unrolled EG's nap mat and snuggled up with the blanket. It is plenty large enough! EG is only 18 months, but a much older child would easily be able to completely cover up with the blanket if they wished to. No feet sticking out, or body half covered...there is plenty to go around. The length of the mat also allows plenty of room for growth. We'll be using this mat in Kindergarten I'm sure! As pictured, with the applique option and removable pillow option, the mat is $77. A steal, in my opinion, for such a high quality, beautiful mat. Please go and check out Little Brown Crane's store! In addition to the SnuglyMats, she also offers super cute backpacks, lunch totes, nursing covers, and more! I know you'll at least want a backpack and lunch tote to match your SnuglyMat, right? I promise you will not be disappointed in whatever you purchase!

EG loves her "nat" and especially likes to carry it on her shoulder to and from daycare, around the house, to the washing machine, etc. Thank you Little Brown Crane for offering a terrific nap mat and for allowing me to host a review!

Handstamped Jewelry by cinnamonsticks {Review and Giveaway} **CLOSED**

Here are your random numbers: 53 Timestamp: 2009-03-27 16:29:14 UTC

Congratulations to the winner, Andreah!  Thanks to all who entered and please come back again!

Wear your heart around your neck with a beautiful piece of handstamped jewelry from cinnamonsticks. With the variety of designs, styles, and options available there is sure to be something for everyone. Canela of cinnamonsticks graciously allowed me to test out my favorite piece, the "Lucky Mommy" necklace (pictured above and on me). I truly feel like a lucky mommy every day and love how this necklace displays the message in such a beautiful, simple way. This particular necklace has a round charm with "lucky mommy" stamped on it, and two oval charms. One oval charm has EG's birthdate and the other has her name. But, if this wording doesn't suit you, it can be personalized however you wish. At first, I was a little worried about the size of the charms when I read the dimensions on her site, but it turned out to be one of the best things about it! Some handstamped jewelry can look very heavy and only appropriate with casual attire. However, this necklace has such a beautiful sterling chain, and the charms are so dainty that it can be worn with anything (pictured right). It's perfect when I dress up for work, or with jeans on the weekend. I have received more compliments on this necklace than any other jewelry that I have worn. And when people look closer to see what is written on the charms, they love it even more. I pretty much wear this necklace every day!

I'm sure to be purchasing more jewelry from cinnamonsticks in the future. She offers different font designs, and can personalize any item to your specifications including wording and chain length. The chain is of very high quality, much nicer than many I have seen and purchased before, and the charms are securely wrapped or soldered so that they cannot fall off or be removed. Cinnamonsticks offers a style perfect for any recipient or occasion. Her storefront says that she offers whimsical, rustic, sentimental, and life inspired designs. This is evident just by browsing through her shop and looking at the different items she has for sale. The jewelry you will purchase is truly of top notch quality and you will not be disappointed. Thanks to Canela from cinnamonsticks for offering such a great product and for allowing me to host the review and giveway! Check out all of the great styles cinnamonsticks has to offer so that you can decide how to spend your $40 gift card if you win! See details below for how to enter.

To enter this giveaway follow the rules below (US ONLY):
1. For your initial, required entry, visit cinnamonsticks and check all of the great jewelry she has to offer. Then come back here and leave me a comment telling me how you would spend your $40 gift card if you win.

To earn extra entries you may do one or more of the following and leave me additional comments here telling me which you have done:

2. Follow me on Twitter and leave a tweet about this contest. Leave me a link to your tweet as well as your Twitter name.
3. Blog about this contest to earn TWO extra entries and leave me a comment with the link to your post. **Be sure to leave TWO separate comments if you do this**
4. Follow my blog through Blogger.

5. Subscribe to my blog via e-mail.
6. Grab my button and place it on your site (w/ link to site in comment) for THREE extra entries. **Be sure to leave me THREE separate comments indicating that you have my button so that they will all be counted**

7. Enter another one of my giveaways. Leave me a comment(s) telling me which one(s).

**Be sure to leave me your e-mail address, if there is not a visible one in your profile, so that I can contact you if you win. Winners also submitted via PRIZEYWinners if you would prefer not to leave an e-mail address. This contest will end at 11:59 PM CST on Wednesday March 25. The winner will be randomly chosen via Random.org and notified on or around Thursday, March 26.**