Create Beautiful Vacation Keepsakes in a Flash with Pre-Made Disney Scrapbooks by Jan {Review and Giveaway}

Congratulations to the winner, Abby!

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One thing I really wish I had more time for is scrapbooking. I have a room full of supplies and no time to use them! I feel confident that they won't go to waste and some day I will be able to use them again, but right now there's just no time. By the time I get everything out and begin, EG is waking up from a nap, already tired of me scrapbooking, trying to "help" me (LOL), etc. One solution I have found for this problem is the wonderful world of digital scrapbooking. I don't have to pull out my supplies or cut out the shapes I need, etc. I can just sit at the computer, work a little while, and save. But to me, though I have become quite fond of digital scrapbooking, there is just nothing like your traditional scrapbooks. I love the embellishments, the 3- D quality, and the fact that it just looks so "handmade" like you spent hours and hours on making it look just right (as you probably did!). I'm behind on scrapbooking as it is, but I knew I wanted something special for our trip to Disney World. Knowing I would probably not get to actually making a scrapbook until EG is in college (LOL), I began looking for alternatives. Thus, how I stumbled across Jan's Etsy shop, Sweet Southern Belle, and her beautiful pre-made Disney scrapbooks.

I am so thrilled that she agreed to do the review and giveaway, and even more thrilled that my Disney scrapbook is nearly ready to go...and we haven't even left yet!!

I was able to review one of the 12x12

scrapbooks (2 pages pictured above), and I am so pleased with how nice it is. Jan uses well known, very nice scrapbook papers and embellishments (also many that are hand created!) to create some really beautiful pages. All I will have to do is add pictures and, voila, a beautiful Disney scrapbook to document our vacation! Jan has included many different aspects of a Disney trip including various characters (including a special page for my Ariel lover :), park specific pages, pages for different rides, etc. All of the Disney embellishments used are licensed products and stamps (hand painted by Jan), and all supplies are acid free. It is obvious that she puts a lot of time and effort into making these scrapbooks, just as she would her own. No two scrapbooks are alike, and they can be personalized if you have any special requests! The idea of a pre-made scrapbook is genius, especially for those of us who aren't so creatively inclined, and those of us who always seem to run short on time (probably most of us!). Another great thing about Jan's scrapbooks is that they allow you the ability to add extra elements and information if you want to (though you certainly wouldn't need to!). "Pre-made" doesn't necessarily mean that you can't put your own spin on it. Jan simply gives you a really nice head start! Basically, she does most of the work for you and puts it all together in a beautiful scrapbook that your family will treasure for years to come.

She makes gorgeous Disney scrapbooks in all sizes from 6x6 to 12x12 (which means there are a variety of prices as well), and also offers them in different styles such as acrylic, what she calls "eclectic" (clear with lots of fun embellishments!), and even decoupaged (like the one you can win!). I think all of the scrapbooks in Jan's shop are beautiful, and you can tell that a lot of time and effort went into their creation. I find that you will often see pre-made scrapbooks where it is obvious that the minimum amount of effort went into it. Not the case with these, and one reader will be so lucky as to win a beautiful 8x8 Disney scrapbook of their own! So whether you have already been to Disney or plan to go in the future, this would be an awesome way to display some of the pictures from your trip. No Disney pictures to scrapbook? Sweet Southern Belle also offers other beautiful scrapbooks and items including pregnancy scrapbooks, princess scrapbooks, hand made cards, board books, and autograph books. Go check out Sweet Southern Belle now, and be delighted by the wonderful surprises you will find (and pick what you like best so you can enter the giveaway for a Disney 8x8 scrapbook :)!

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

1. REQUIRED: Visit Sweet Southern Belle, check out the shop, then leave me a comment telling me your favorite items in her shop.

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

2. Follow me on Twitter and tweet (be sure to leave me your Twitter name and a link).
3. Blog about this contest and leave the link.
4. Follow.
5. Subscribe.

6. Grab my button and let me know where I can find it on your site.

7. Become a fan of Mommy Works on Facebook.

**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 in the event that you are the winner. This contest will end at 11:59 PM CST on Tuesday, August 18. The winner will be randomly chosen via random.org and notified on or around Wednesday, August 19.**

Positive Discipline Made Easy with the Timeout Circle from Uh-Oh Mama! {Review and Giveaway} **CLOSED**

Congratulations to the winner, TheAngelForever!

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In the last few months we've started implementing "time out" in our house with EG. We use it more as a cool-down for her rather than a punishment. There are so many different studies out there and ideas about what an appropriate "time out" is, and after having looked at many of them I decided I definitely agreed that it would be more effective and better for us if we used it from a positive perspective rather than a negative one. We definitely needed to do something because when EG has a meltdown there's really nothing we can do except let her calm down on her own. My goal was to have a place in our home where EG knows she can (and has to : ) settle down. To implement this "time out", I first of all needed a place for EG to go that she could easily recognize as her designated place to cool down, and a plus would be something that we could take with us anywhere (i.e. Nana's, vacation, etc.) for consistency. After looking on the internet for such a "spot" I found several "Time Out" chairs and circles, but nothing extremely portable or without the words "time out" (which just rub me the wrong way for some reason). I decided to continue my search on my all time favorite website, Etsy, with the thought that no one would make such a thing as I envisioned. But, lo and behold, Marci at Uh-Oh Mama! had just what I was looking for! What she calls her timeout circle is just what I had been looking for. It's a completely customizable (any wording you like!) designated spot that you can use for your time out, quiet time, or whatever you like to call it! We named ours the "thinking spot"!

The "thinking spot" is a kid-sized, dual layer (cotton top and fleece bottom for extra padding) fabric circle specifically designed for time out. It comes monogrammed with the words "time out", but this can be changed to accommodate whatever wording you would prefer (i.e. thinking spot). You can also add your child's name by adding the monogramming option in her shop. The spot is also completely customizable with your choice of fabric, from tons and tons of choices.

As you can see, I chose a pink/green/brown polka dot fabric with the words "EG's Thinking Spot" (her full name is 'pinked' out in the picture but is on the spot) around the edge. It turned out so cute and is the perfect size. Not only is the spot itself wonderful, but it gets even better...an included egg timer! The timer comes with it's own matching timer cover an can attach to the spot with a velcro attachment. The attachment is extremely convenient when transporting the "thinking spot" so that everything stays together. But, when EG is actually "thinking" on her spot, I have to take the timer away so she doesn't play with it. She does definitely listen for the "ding" though! For kids who wouldn't play with the timer, maybe older kids, it would be a good way for them to see how much time they have left. Great features so far right? Well, I also said that I wanted something portable, and this totally is. It folds up nicely and comes with its own matching drawstring bag that bears the name of what is inside. So cute, and definitely handy! You can see how small it is from EG holding it in the pictures. I honestly don't know what more you could ask for in a timeout spot. It has everything you need for positive discipline all rolled in to one!
I think we will definitely be using this for years to come and it is so wonderful that we can take it anywhere! EG knows what it is and it helps to make our discipline more consistent. This is one of my favorite products I have been able to review because it has worked so well for us, and I can see the application of this product for so many families out there! You will truly love it! Definitely check out Marci's shop to see the Timeout Circles she is currently offering. While you're there you can also check out some cute dresses, onesies, bibs/burp cloths, tutus, and more! But that's not all...one reader will get to choose a custom "timeout circle" of their own (new fabric choices will be coming in a couple weeks too!)! Simply follow the directions below...

TO BUY: To buy any of the items in Uh-Oh Mama's store simply visit her Etsy shop and shop away! The timeout circles are $36 and include the timer and bag.

TO WIN: Visit Uh-Oh Mama! and pick your favorite item. Then tell me about your favorite item and how you will use the timeout circle if you win.

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

1. REQUIRED: Visit Uh-Oh Mama!, pick out your favorite product, then leave a comment telling me your favorite product AND how you will use the timeout circle if you win.

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

2. Follow me on Twitter and tweet (be sure to leave me your Twitter name and a link).
3. Blog about this contest and leave the link.
4. Follow.
5. Subscribe.
6. Grab my button and let me know where I can find it on your site.

**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 in the event that you are the winner. This contest will end at 11:59 PM CST on Friday July 24. The winner will be randomly chosen via random.org and notified on or around Saturday, July 25.**

Sweet Dreams Little One: Gorgeous, Custom "Big Kid" Toddler Pillows From Emmi's Cottage {Review and Giveaway} **CLOSED**

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Congratulations to the winner, Anne!

Who knew a toddler could get so excited about a pillow? EG has never really been interested in our bed pillows, so I didn't really expect her to be overly excited about her "first" one. Making the switch from crib to toddler bed prompted us to get such a pillow. Crazy as it might sound, I just wanted her to have a "special" first pillow. You know, one just for her, just her size, and of course...one that matches her room! While searching for the perfect little pillow, I stumbled across these beautiful creations from Emmi's Cottage.

The Emmi's Cottage front page told me all I needed to know and I was sold:
"Simple and pretty things, made to last and made with love. This shop uses only the finest fabrics, trims and quality materials around. VINTAGE INSPIRED PRINTS ARE MY SPECIALTY."

Who couldn't love that motto? I instantly fell in love with the vintage inspired fabrics, beautiful colors, and super soft chenille. They were the perfect pillows! I could tell just by looking at the pictures that the pillows were well crafted, and I know the fabric used to make them to be of high quality. I am so lucky to have been made a pillow to review for EG! This might be my favorite review product yet! And it's definitely EG's favorite product! It's funny, it only took a few minutes for her to get attached to it. I showed it to her before we went to bed the night we received it, and she instantly wanted to lay on it. It's like she knew that it was made just for her, and the size was absolutely perfect. Now whenever she gets in the bed for any reason she asks for her "balloo" (pillow). So cute! You can see in the pictures what a perfect size it is for a toddler. It's not so full that it will hurt their necks when they sleep, and it is the perfect fit for their little beds. The fabrics used are super soft, and did I mention, GORGEOUS! The ric rac around the edge adds the final touch to these pillows. Any little one would be thrilled to have one, and they would make awesome gifts!

The name pillows are absolutely beautiful, but it doesn't stop there. Wait until you see the other items that Emmi's Cottage has to offer! By far my favorite things in her shop are her appliqued pillows like the Bella the Blue Bird "Dream" pillow pictured above. The detail on these is incredible, and I know that Dianne at Emmi's Cottage puts a lot of time into handstitching on these pillows as well. I almost want one for myself! Other beautiful items you can find at Emmi's Cottage are burp cloth sets, hair clip holders, and beautiful blossoms hair clips. You are sure to find something you adore, and if you love the pillows as much as I do, simply keep reading for information on how you can BUY one and also how you can WIN some great stuff from Emmi's Cottage!

To BUY any of the beautiful items at Emmi's Cottage simply visit Dianne's Etsy shop and shop to your heart's content! Be sure to tell her Mommy Works sent you!

To WIN $25 towards any item in Emmi's Cottage, simply follow the entry guidelines below!

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

1. REQUIRED: Visit Emmi's Cottage and let me know how you would spend your $25.

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 tweet (be sure to leave me the link and your Twitter name).
3. Blog about this contest and leave me the link.
4. Follow Mommy Works
5. Subscribe to Mommy Works via reader/e-mail

6. Grab my button, place it on your site, and leave me the link where I can find it.

**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. This contest will end at 11:59 PM CST on Wednesday, May 27. The winner will be randomly chosen via Random.org and notified on or around Thursday, May 28.**

Funky, Personalized Clipboards for Every Personality by Slim-Digm Designs {Review and Giveaway}

Congratulations to the winner, Saving in Style!

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I am all about making ordinary items more fun and enjoyable, and that is exactly what Slim-Digm Designs has done with their personalized clipboards. My job requires me to be on the go throughout the day from classroom to classroom, and a clipboard is a great way to always have a sturdy writing surface (rather than one of the kid's desks...ick!) and be able to keep up with papers I need quick and easy access to. I also attend conferences quite often throughout the summer and throughout the school year that require me to take notes, collect handouts, etc. A clipboard is the perfect "accessory" for these conferences, but they are certainly not very stylish or popular as an accessory should be. At least that's what I thought until I found the awesome decorated clipboards and accessories from Slim-Digm! I was offered my choice of clipboards to review and I chose the ever trendy giraffe print. I loved it online, but it was even more beautiful in person! Made using a fiberboard clipboard, high quality papers, and an acrylic sealant these clipboards are just as durable as they are beautiful. Each design is original to Slim-Digm and is hand crafted just for you. I was so pleased by the quality! It is obvious that excellent materials are used, and extreme care and attention to detail is evident. Several different coordinating papers are used to create each clipboard, and designs are on the front AND the back (a feature not common with the personalized clipboards!). Also include is your custom monogram actually printed on one of the papers. Mine says "Mrs. 'mylastname'" and I just think it's too cute! My last initial is also printed on the back of the clipboard as well for an added touch. But, the icing on the cake, as they say, is the assortment of matching ribbons attached to the clip of the clipboard. This adds such a fun and funky touch! The kids at school keep asking me how they can get one...they love the ribbons! Why buy something plain when you can have the same function with the added bonus of great style and personalization? I'm so glad I stumbled across these decorated clipboards, and it brings a smile to my face each day that I see it sitting there on my desk. These clipboards would make awesome gifts for teachers, college-goers (personalized in their college's name and colors of course!), brides-to-be (to take to all of those appointments and interviews!), or anyone else who needs a clipboard for work or play...heck, it's even cute enough just to have to display! LOL Bottom line is that Slim-Digm has found a fabulous way to make an everyday item BEAUTIFUL without compromising it's primary function. You will love these beautiful clipboards, and they are certainly made to last.

To BUY one for yourself or a friend (or both): Head on over to Slim-Digm's Etsy shop and pick your favorite style (or convo for a custom design). At $16 they are a steal!

To WIN one: Follow the entry instructions below to have your opportunity to win a custom giraffe print clipboard (like mine pictured).

**Please note the new, streamlined giveaway entry rules below...all extra entries are now 1 entry each. Any extra comments will be deleted :) **

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

1. REQUIRED: Visit Slim-Digm Designs and let me know what your favorite clipboard 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 tweet (be sure to leave me the link and your Twitter name).

3. Blog about this contest and leave me the link.

4. Follow Mommy Works

5. Subscribe to Mommy Works via reader/e-mail
6. Grab my button, place it on your site, and leave me the link where I can find it.

**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. This contest will end at 11:59 PM CST on Sunday, May 24. The winner will be randomly chosen via Random.org and notified on or around Monday, May 25.**

Great for Mother's Day! Handstamped Mother/Daughter Necklace from Chunky Punky & dinky {Giveaway} **CLOSED**

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Congratulations to the winner, Vanessa!

I love handstamped jewelry, so when Nicole of Chunky Punky & dinky contacted me about hosting a giveaway of one of her necklaces, I happily obliged. She is offering one of my readers one of her Sterling Silver Mother Daughter Love Necklaces. This would make an awesome gift for Mother's Day, either for your own mother or for yourself! The beautiful necklace is made up of two hearts; the larger one stamped with the word "mother" and the smaller one "daughter". It also comes with your choice of two Swarovski crystal birthstones. All birthstones are available!

A little about Nicole and Chunky Punky & dinky:

Nicole is a wife and mom to three boys who enjoys "creating jewelry and learning new techniques". You can explore Nicole's Etsy shop, Chunky Punky & dinky, here. She is also a blogger, with a great blog where she writes about the goings on in her life and shop. Other than the handstamped necklace up for grabs (pictured above), some of my favorite items she offers are the Daddy Keychain, Chainmaille bracelets, and the Sterling Silver and Copper Family Love Necklace. Go check out Chunky Punky & dinky to find some unique jewelry you are sure to love. To enter to win the Mother Daughter Necklace, see details below.

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

1. For your initial, required entry, visit Chunky Punky & dinky and check out the unique jewelry and accessories that Nicole has to offer. Then come back here and leave me a comment letting me know what you like best (other than those mentioned above).

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).

8. Leave a comment on Nicole's Chunky Punky & dinky blog for **2 extra entries**. Then come back here and let me know where it is :)

**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 Friday, May 1. The winner will be randomly chosen via Random.org and notified on or around Saturday, May 2.**

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 :)