Valentines Day Is All About the PURE ROMANCE™ (Giveaway!)

I've been married going on 8 years to the love of my life. While everything in "that" department is still all hunky-dory, every now and then we like to spice things up.

When I was given a chance to try and review products from Pure Romance™, I thought "giddy up!"

Pure Romance™ is a company offering a variety of products that add a little spice to your love life; all in a classy, discreet style.

I was given a variety of products to sample and while I'm not going to kiss-and-tell the details, I will say that Brian and I both enjoyed a great, long and fulfilling date night! ;)

And while all of the "toys" were fun, I was most impressed the Pure Romance™ founder Patty Brisben, who started the company in 1993 to empower, educate, and entertain women. Since then, the company has grown to over 70,000 product consultants who live the company’s mission each and every day.

What is that mission?

EMPOWERMENT: This jobless recovery is taking its toll on families, however very often our Pure Romance consultants report that they are meeting or exceeding their income expectations. Sales have been recession-resistant. Pure Romance experienced a 37% increase in sales in 2010. Pure Romance also empowers women because they are able to take control of their sex lives, which can have an impact on quality of life.

EDUCATION: Pure Romance products resonate with women unlike any other in the category due to our commitment to educating women about their bodies and our products. The Pure Romance partnership with the Kinsey Institute, coupled with our curriculum developed by our Director of Sexual Health Education, means our 70,000 consultants are trained to provide the most helpful information and advice. Pure Romance doesn’t sell in stores because in-home parties offer women fun, private, peer-to-peer learning opportunities about romance, intimacy and sex.

ENTERTAINMENT:  Whether it’s the fun and camaraderie of the Pure Romance parties themselves, the use of Pure Romance products by a woman, or a couple’s inventive Pure Romance fun, entertainment is at the core of the company’s mission.

Like I said, I'm not going to share my naughty little details (too bad for you, eh?) but I loudly proclaim that Pure Romance is a wonderful company, with a classy style, and products that curl your toes and leave you with "that" glow. ;)

For a great selection of products for your Valentine's Day "celebration" or learn more about how you can become a consultant, visit http://www.pureromance.com/.

AND, in the meantime, you can take a shot at the following GIVEAWAY!  Pure Romance is offering one lucky reader of The Mom Trap a fabulous prize package that includes:

MINI NIGHTS OF PASSION (pack allows you to enjoy a bottle of Aura, Ex-T-Cee, Excape, Sensations and Sweet Seduction); AURA MASSAGE OIL; EX-T-CEE arousal cream; EXCAPE  pheromone-infused bubble bath;  SENSATIONS lubricant; and SWEET SEDUCTION flavored lubricant.

HERE'S HOW TO ENTER: Mandatory entry:  Visit the Pure Romance website then return here to leave a comment telling me the name of your favorite Pure Romance product. (Be sure to include an email address or have one available on your profile in case you win!)


Want to increase your chances of winning with extra entries? (Leave a comment for each additional entry; i.e. 2 extra entries = 2 comments)

• "Like" Pure Romance on Facebook. (1 extra entry)
• Follow Pure Romance on Twitter. (1 extra entry)
• Become a Facebook Fan of The Mom Trap at www.facebook.com/themomtrap (1 extra entry. Current followers also receive extra entry.)
• Follow The Mom Trap with Google Friend Connect. (1 extra entry. Current followers included.)
• Follow The Mom Trap on Twitter (1 extra entry. Current followers included.)
• Tweet this giveaway for 2 extra entries, including @kdcantrell in your tweet. (Include the Tweet status URL in your comment.)
• Blog about this giveaway for 5 extra entries. (Be sure to include the URL of your post in your comment)
• Add The Mom Trap button (lower right column) to your blog for 5 extra entries.
  

The Fine Print: Contest ends at 11:59:59 PM Central Time on Thursday, February 17, 2011. Winner will be chosen by random number generator. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Open to U.S. and territories residents only; void where prohibited. Winner will be announced on Facebook and notified via email no later than Friday, February 18, 2011, and will have 48 hours to claim their prize or an alternate winner will be chosen.


Thank you to Global Influence and Pure Romance for providing me with free prodcuts to review.
However, receipt of said products had no influence over my review of same.

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Trash the Guilt Not the Plate with Hefty Basics (Giveaway too!)

How many times have you wished you had paper plates on hand so that you didn't have to do dishes later?

I know it happens to me.... A LOT!
Of course, then you feel guilty because you're creating more trash for the already-full landfills; more stuff that's harmful to the enviroment.

Well trash the guilt, because there's a new paper plate in town - Hefty® Basics™ Biodegradable Paper Plates.

Free of inks, dyes, or coatings, Hefty Basics are about the same price as other name brand paper plates BUT you can toss these into your composite bin instead.

How cool is that?

When I was offered a sample of the Hefty Basics, I was excited.  Green product, no dishes for a few meals - can you blame me?  But when I learned the enviromental friendliness of Hefty's newest product, I was estatic!

We've been using these "paper" plates for a few days now and love them.  Not only are they super strong and large enough to easily accomodate standard meal sizes, but we're not filling up the trash after eating - instead we're adding to our composite for Spring planting!

Does Hefty Basics sound like something you'd like to try?  Keep reading to find out how you can do it for free!

GIVEAWAY!  GIVEAWAY!  Hefty, through Matrixx,  has generously provided 2 coupons for free Hefty Basics product (total value $4.98) to one lucky reader of The Mom Trap.

HERE'S HOW TO ENTER:  In the spirit of environmentalism, Hefty® Basics™ has partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation™ on a quest to plant 10,000 trees, one for every ten new “Like”s on Facebook - so head on over to http://www.facebook.com/HeftyBasicsTableware and "like" them and leave a comment saying so.  (Be sure to include an email address or have one available on your profile in case you win!)
Want to increase your chances of winning with extra entries? (Leave a comment for each additional entry; i.e. 2 extra entries = 2 comments)

• Become a Facebook Fan of The Mom Trap at www.facebook.com/themomtrap (1 extra entry. Current followers also receive extra entry.)
• Follow The Mom Trap with Google Friend Connect, Twitter, or Yahoo Account. (1 extra entry. Current followers included.)
• Follow The Mom Trap on Twitter (1 extra entry. Current followers included.)
• Tweet this giveaway for 2 extra entries, including @kdcantrell in your tweet. (Include the Tweet status URL in your comment.)
• Blog about this giveaway for 5 extra entries. (Be sure to include the URL of your post in your comment)
• Add The Mom Trap button (lower right column) to your blog for 5 extra entries.

The Fine Print: Contest ends at 11:59:59 PM Central Time on Thursday, January 30, 2011. Winner will be chosen by random number generator. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Open to U.S. and territories residents only; void where prohibited. Winner will be announced on Facebook and notified via email no later than Monday, January 31, 2011, and will have 48 hours to claim their prize or an alternate winner will be chosen.

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Train Your Tot with EZ SOX (Product Review and Giveaway!)

Whew, that was quite a Thanksgiving! It's was wonderful to spend time with family and friends.

I enjoyed a nice break before heading into the busy Christmas season, but I'm back in the game with a great product that you Moms are going to love!

I don't know about you, but as a mom of 4, one of my favorite moments (most liberating!) was when my children learn to dress themselves.  And what's one of the most frustrating pieces of clothing?

SOCKS!

Well, not anymore.  Sporting a unique design of double reinforced loops, EZ SOX are the only socks making a way for tiny fingers to get a good, strong grip for pulling up and over their itty bitty feet - and walk away feeling like a champ!

Created by parents who watched their son struggle with his own socks, these adorable training socks come in ten designs:  Jazz the Dog, Fred the Frog, Bo the Bear, Priscilla the Pig, Pat the Cat, and Roni the Rabbit; the new members Red Ladybug, Black Penguin, Olive T-Rex, and Purple Kitty.  Also available in solid colors too! (Although the character designs are a perfect guide for littles ones in knowing which side is up and which side is down.)   

Moms and Dads ready to conquer the daunting socks-on task will find EZ Sox available in two sizes:  4-6 (2-3 years) and 7-12 (3-5 years).

When I was offered a pair of EZ Sox to try, I couldn't say yes fast enough.  Princess A is learning to dress herself and, of course, the sock part is a major headache.  She actually gives up and just puts them on her hands. :)

Now, intially, the cute design automatically made her think of a sock puppet so they went straight to the hands.  But all it took was a couple of demonstrations and she was took right to it like a duck to water!

Here's something, Mom, you'll also be interested in knowing:  they don't shrink and hold their shape after washing!   Since they're the only socks Princess A wants to wear now, we've put this to the test several times over a couple of weeks.

At only $4.99 per pair, these socks are idea for stocking stuffers!

GIVEAWAY!  EZ SOX has been generous enough to offer one lucky reader of The Mom Trap a pair of their socks in the design (if available) and size of their choice!!

Here's how to enter:  Visit the EZ SOX website at http://www.ezsox.com/ and tell me which design you would choose if you won this giveaway.  (Be sure to include an email address or have one available on your profile in case you win!)

Want to increase your chances of winning with extra entries? (Leave a comment for each additional entry; i.e. 2 extra entries = 2 comments)

• Like EZ SOX on Facebook for 1 extra entry (already like it? That counts!).
• Follow EZ SOX on Twitter for 1 extra entry (already follow?  That counts too!)
• Become a Facebook Fan of The Mom Trap at www.facebook.com/themomtrap (1 extra entry. Current followers also receive extra entry.)
• Follow EZ SOX Blog with Google Friend Connect, Twitter, or Yahoo Account. (1 extra entry.  Current followers included)
• Follow The Mom Trap with Google Friend Connect, Twitter, or Yahoo Account. (1 extra entry. Current followers included.)
• Follow The Mom Trap on Twitter (1 extra entry. Current followers included.)
• Tweet this giveaway for 2 extra entries, including @kdcantrell in your tweet. (Include the Tweet status URL in your comment.)
• Blog about this giveaway for 5 extra entries. (Be sure to include the URL of your post in your comment)

The Fine Print: Contest ends at 11:59:59 PM Central Time on Wednesday, December 8, 2010. Winner will be chosen by random number generator. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Open to U.S. and territories residents only. Winner will be announced on Facebook and notified via email no later than Saturday, December 11, 2010, and will have 48 hours to claim their prize or an alternate winner will be chosen.

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LUVS Sports a New Monkey Design - And You Can Win a Package [Giveaway]

I can't count the number of times I've mentioned here that I'm a HUGE fan of Luvs diapers.

But let me say it again: I love LUVS!

Now Luvs is getting a makeover.  While you won't have any trouble locating them on your store shelves, if you've ever used Luvs you'll definitely notice the difference - including a package upgrade with new photos and an added panel offering additional product information for parents and caregivers.

And that's not all! Read on -

Luvs also now features a new MONKEY design!

This adorable new design is perfect for both girls and boys!

These new features make me love love Luvs!

But fear, Luvs loves is not going to compromise the trust and safe material used to make these very affordable, better-than-store-brand diapers that we've grown to "luv."

The new Luvs diapers will be hitting the shelves this fall! But you can be one of the first to try out the new and improved (aesthetically pleasing) changes!

Luvs has been generous enough to offer a FREE promtional package to one lucky reader of The Mom Trap.  The promotional diapers are available in Size 4 only - so keep that in mind when entering.

Here's how to enter:

• Leave a comment answering this question: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ITEM TO BUY AS A BABY SHOWER GIFT? (Be sure to include an email address or have one available on your profile in case you win!)

Want to increase your chances of winning with extra entries? (Leave a comment for each additional entry; i.e. 2 extra entries = 2 comments)

• Become a Facebook Fan of The Mom Trap at www.facebook.com/themomtrap (1 extra entry. Current followers also receive extra entry.)
• "Like" Luvs on Facebook (1 extra entry. Already follow? That counts too!)
• Follow The Mom Trap with Google Friend Connect. (1 extra entry. Current followers included.)
• Follow The Mom Trap on Twitter (1 extra entry. Current followers included.)
• Tweet this giveaway for 5 extra entries, including @kdcantrell in your tweet. (Include the Tweet status URL in your comment.)
• Blog about this giveaway for 5 extra entries. (Be sure to include the URL of your post in your comment)

The Fine Print: Contest ends at 11:59:59 PM Central Time on Thursday, November 18, 2010. Winner will be chosen by random number generator. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Open to U.S. and territories residents only. Winner will be announced here and notified via email no later than Saturday, November 20, 2010, and will have 48 hours to claim their prize or an alternate winner will be chosen.

Thank you to Luvs for providing me with a free package of Luvs diapers for the purposes of this review. 
However, receipt of same did not influence my opinion in any manner.  All statements are my own.

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Tommee Tippee: The ONLY Sippy Cups I Would Recommend (Review)

This Saturday - November 6, 2010 - Tommee Tippee is hosting a blog tour event they're calling "Traveling with Tiny Tots."

What's Tommee Tippee, you ask? The ONLY sippy cups I would ever recommend!

I'll tell you why in just a minute.

But first let me share this: Tommee Tippee is Great Britain's number 1 baby feeding brand.  They proudly bring Moms simply intuitive products designed to make traveling {or just living} with infants and toddlers as easy and stress free as possible.

And let me tell you - Tommee Tippee lives up to their promises!  

When they say they are TRULY SPILL PROOF CUPS, they're not kidding.

Over the course of my 18+ years of parenting, I've tried more than my fair share of sippy cups.  But not until my last child and an offer from Tommee Tippee to try their product did I finally find what I (and every parent with a toddler or messy child) have been looking for.  Why?  Simple:  they're truly spill proof and kids don't have to have the power of a Hoover vacuum cleaner to get anything to drink.

Now Tommee Tippee is introducing a new addition to their collection of spill-proof cups:  the Li'l Sippee.   This revolutionary design offers a one piece valve that's integrated right into the top. 

So what exactly does this mean?  It means there is only one piece to wash and clean! 

Add that to being truly spill proof, it's a Mom's dream come true!

Visit your local Babies R Us this Saturday for traveling tips, discounts, and more.  Also check out the extensive line of Tommee Tippee available at Babies R US.

AND/OR you can visit the Tommee Tippee website.  Also be sure to stay updated about Tommee Tippee's great products and more on Facebook and Twitter.

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Sausage Gravy and Biscuit Recipe with Pillsbury Grands Biscuits (Giveaway Too!)

Bring the mouthwatering aroma of fresh-baked biscuits to your kitchen with Pillsbury® Grands!® Mini Biscuits!

Each 70-calorie biscuit is a delight when served hot from the oven, with a warm fluffy center and golden, flaky crust. Pillsbury® Grands!® Mini Biscuits are the perfect size for kids, or for mini sandwiches and appetizers. There are countless recipe options, from miniature ham sandwiches come lunchtime, to delicious sliders for nighttime entertaining. There are so many ways to make these biscuits and your family will love trying each one. When Pillsbury and My Blog Spark invited me to give Grands Biscuits a try, it didn't take much to convince me.

After all, I've been a fan of Pillsbury Grands biscuits for a while.

I was asked to come up with something creative with my biscuits, but I'm not much of a creative person.   I thought and thought and thought about it, but I just kept going back to my favorite:  Sausage Gravy and Biscuit.

My most favorite way to eat biscuits.

The recipe for Sausage Gravy and Biscuit is actually very simple (or at least the one I use):

1 package Pioneer biscuit gravy mix
2 sausage patties
8 Pillsbury Grands biscuits



Follow directions to make gravy mix.  Fry sausage patties and drain grease into biscuit mix.  Stir well.  Cut sausage patties into small pieces and drop into biscuit mix.  Stir well.  Serve over biscuits.

Simple, eh?  Yes, and so so so good!

Is your mouth watering yet?  Good, then you'll want to hear about this:  Pillsbury, by way of My Blog Spark, is offering ONE lucky reader of the The Mom Trap the chance to win a Pillsbury® Grands!® Mini Biscuits prize pack which includes a VIP coupon good for a free package of biscuits, a $15 gift card to purchase your recipe creation/experimentation needs, a biscuit basket, a butter dish and spreader!

Here's how to enter:
Leave a comment telling me: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BISCUIT RECIPE?  (Be sure to include an email address or have one available on your profile in case you win!)

Want to increase your chances of winning with extra entries? (Leave a comment for each additional entry; i.e. 2 extra entries = 2 comments)

• Become a Pillsbury Facebook Fan (1 extra entry. Already follow? That counts too!)
• Become a Facebook Fan of The Mom Trap at www.facebook.com/themomtrap (1 extra entry. Current followers also receive extra entry.)
• Follow The Mom Trap with Google Friend Connect. (1 extra entry. Current followers included.)
• Follow The Mom Trap on Twitter (1 extra entry. Current followers included.)
• Tweet this giveaway for 5 extra entries, including @kdcantrell in your tweet. (Include the Tweet status URL in your comment.)
• Blog about this giveaway for 5 extra entries. (Be sure to include the URL of your post in your comment)

The Fine Print: Contest ends at 11:59:59 PM Central Time on Thursday, October 21, 2010. Winner will be chosen by random number generator. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Open to U.S. and territories residents only. Winner will be announced here and notified via email no later than Saturday, October 23, 2010, and will have 48 hours to claim their prize or an alternate winner will be chosen.

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Pillsbury Chocolate Chunk Fudge Brownies....YUMMY! (Review and Giveaway!)

With a taste as delicious and authentic as if you baked them at home, Pillsbury Chocolate Chunk Fudge Brownies are a blend of 3 types of cocoas with real chocolate syrup and milk chocolate chunks to make a delicious fudgy brownie—they’re the perfect solution when you’re pressed for time. Add personal flair to these already-baked brownies with your own decorations, frosting, caramel or powdered sugar!

With a straight-out-of-the-oven flavor without the time or clean-up, Pillsbury Chocolate Chunk Fudge Brownies are a great treat for any occasion!


In addition, when purchasing Pillsbury Chocolate Chunk Fudge Brownies at Sam’s Club, you have the chance to support your local school with Box Tops for Education. Each package of Pillsbury Chocolate Chunk Fudge Brownies has 6 Bonus Box Tops that can be redeemed to earn cash for the K-8 school of your choice.

Big Brother, Princess A and I had a great time decorating our brownies.  I wanted to take a photo to share with you all but the rest of our clan had snatched them up before I could even grab my camera!   

The Pillsbury Chocolate Chunk Brownies are SO DELICIOUS!

Try and see for yourself with an AWESOME giveaway!  Pillsbury and My Blog Spark kindly offered me a gift back to try out these delicious little pieces of heaven and now they're offering one of my readers the same!

Here's how to enter:

Leave a comment telling me: What's your favorite Pillsbury product? (Be sure to include an email address or have one available on your profile in case you win!)


Want to increase your chances of winning with extra entries? (Leave a comment for each additional entry; i.e. 2 extra entries = 2 comments)

• Become a Pillsbury Facebook Fan (1 extra entry. Already follow? That counts too!)
• Become a Facebook Fan of The Mom Trap at www.facebook.com/themomtrap (1 extra entry. Current followers also receive extra entry.)
• Follow The Mom Trap with Google Friend Connect. (1 extra entry. Current followers included.)
• Follow The Mom Trap on Twitter (1 extra entry. Current followers included.)
• Tweet this giveaway for 5 extra entries, including @kdcantrell in your tweet. (Include the Tweet status URL in your comment.)
• Blog about this giveaway for 5 extra entries. (Be sure to include the URL of your post in your comment)

The Fine Print: Contest ends at 11:59:59 PM Central Time on Wednesday, June 30, 2010. Winner will be chosen by random number generator. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Open to U.S. and territories residents only. Winner will be announced here and notified via email on Thursday, July 1st, and will have 48 hours to claim their prize or an alternate winner will be chosen.

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Ritz Crackerfuls are a Yummy Snack Perfect for those On The Go!

Ever notice how you get the worst munchies between lunch and dinner?

I'm always looking for some kind of goody to fill this gap that offers something in the way of nutrition.

I've always liked Ritz's crackers, so when offered free samples from Ritz through One 2 One Network to try, I figured why not.

Ritz Crackerfuls are so YUMMY!  The Cheddar Cheese and Bacon is my FAVORITE.  Honestly, I could eat a whole box at one time!

Ritz offers four flavors in these meal-gap filling snacks, they are:  Garlic Herb, Four Cheese, Classic Cheddar and Cheddar Cheese & Bacon.   

Ritz Crackerfuls make great snacks for busy Moms and kids on the go!   Each crunchy cracker is made with 6 grams of whole grain, filled with rich, creamy cheese and individually wrapped so you toss in your bag as you head out the door!

YUMMY and EASY...what more could you ask for??

Now through August 15, 2010, Ritz if offering a $1.00 Off Coupon on the Cheddar Cheese and Bacon Crackerfuls just for becoming a Facebook Fan!

Although Ritz by and through One 2 One Network provided free samples in exchange for this review,
the views stated herein are strictly my own.

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Eat Mud! Betty Crocker Mississippi Mud Bars, That Is!

Chocolate and I have been the midst of a torrid love affair for some time. Although, too often the relationship seems a bit one sided.

So when Betty Crocker through My Blog Spark was generous enough to offer me the opportunity to try these new Mississippi Mud Supreme Bars, I answered with a resounding "YES!"

And OH. MY. GOODNESS!  These are the most heavenly brownie-like treats I've eaten in a while.

Easy-to-make (just mere minutes to prepare), this tasty sweet is a quick fix for those chocolate cravings.

With layers of chocolate cookie crumbs sprinkled over mini marshmallows in a chewy chocolate center and a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, this brand new recipe is sure to impress friends and family. Betty Crocker Mississippi Mud Supreme Bars provide an out-of-the-box flavor, with in-the-box convenience. You don’t have to go to Mississippi to snag the mix for these delicious bars; Betty Crocker makes it easy to make a tasty treat anytime, anywhere.

Mississippi Mud bars are AWESOME!  But don't just take my word for it, you can pick them up at your local grocer in the baking aisle.

Or better yet....wanna win some?     

GIVEAWAY!  My Blog Spark and Betty Crocker is offering one lucky reader of The Mom Trap a chance to win a Betty Crocker prize pack that includes a box of the new Betty Crocker Mississippi Mud Supreme Bars and an 8x8 metal baking pan.

Here's what you need to do to enter:

• Leave a comment telling me:  What's your favorite chocolate quick-fix?  (Be sure to include an email address or have one available on your profile in case you win!)

Want to increase your chances of winning with extra entries? (Leave a comment for each additional entry; i.e. 2 extra entries = 2 comments)

• Become a Betty Crocker Facebook Fan (1 extra entry. Already follow? That counts too!)
• Become a Facebook Fan of The Mom Trap at www.facebook.com/themomtrap (1 extra entry. Current followers also receive extra entry.)
• Follow The Mom Trap with Google Friend Connect. (1 extra entry. Current followers included.)
• Follow The Mom Trap on Twitter (1 extra entry. Current followers included.)
• Tweet this giveaway for 5 extra entries, including @kdcantrell in your tweet. (Include the Tweet status URL in your comment.)
• Blog about this giveaway for 5 extra entries. (Be sure to include the URL of your post in your comment)

The Fine Print: Contest ends at 11:59:59 PM Central Time on Wednesday, June 16, 2010. Winner will be chosen by random number generator. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Open to U.S. and territories residents only. Winner will be announced here and notified via email on Thursday, June 17th, and will have 48 hours to claim their prize or an alternate winner will be chosen.

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Drink Your Vitamins. Seriously.

Despite working at having a healthier diet, I'll admit I'm still struggling with the veggies.

Which, of course, means that I'm losing out on some very vital vitamins.

When I was approached by the makers of Ola Loa, I immediately jumped on board.

What exactly is Ola Loa, you ask?

Ola Loa is a powered source for a multitude of supplements.  Formulated by a medical doctor, Ola Loa is filled with nutrients, not sugar. 

These powered little packets of vitamins are easy to prepare.  Choose your flavor (Orange or Tropical) and just add water. 

As a consistent water drinker, I added it to a half liter bottle.  Shake well and you're ready to go.

My 14 year old so and I have been regular users of Ola Loa for almost 3 months now.  When everyone in our home got sick this season, we were the two that bounced back the quickest.

And I give much of the credit to having had our daily vitamins with Ola Loa.

Whether it's for vitamins, an energy boost, or replacing electrolytes lost during sports or exercise, Ola Loa has a tasty supplement for you.

AND....they have drinkable vitamins made for the little ones too:  Ola Loa Kids in Cran-Raspberry flavor.

Check them out for yourself with free samples at drinkyourvitamins.com.  And be sure to join Ola Loa's Facebook Fan page too for special offers!

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Hey Easter Bunny, I Want Surf Sweets Candy in My Basket This Year!

Why must every holiday result in aisle upon aisle of sweet-tasting droplets of heaven?

Can you tell I miss eating candy much?

Well, if you can't then let me just say it:  I DO!

But there is a great alternative:  Surf Sweets Natural and Organic Candy.

Free of Corn Syrup and GMOs and made with organic fruit juice and sweetners, I don't feel quite so guilty indulging now and then.

And for my kids who haven't completely had candy eliminated from their lives, it's great!  Neither my 14 or 5 year-old had any idea this was a "healthier" version of candy they were eating.

The best part?  They loved it!

The six bags of samples I received courtesy of Surf Sweets didn't last 24 hours between them, me and Brian.

Let me tell you something else I loved:  Surf Sweets are made in a nut-free facility.  That may not mean much to most; but to those who suffer peanut allergies or have children who do, you can understand what a big deal it is to find ANY product, much less candies, that haven't been exposed to those pesky little legumes.

Instead of filling up those Easter baskets this year with candy that has NO nutritional value, toss 100 percent of the kiddies' recommended daily value of Vitamin C by way of Gummy Worms, Fruity Bears, Jelly Beans and more from http://www.surfsweets.com/.  (Be sure to join the Surf Sweets' Facebook Fan page too!)

Oh, yeah....as a very proud American, I'm always happy to promote a product MADE IN THE USA!

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LikeWear: A Great Work From Home Idea, Especially For Moms

In today's economy where unemployment rates are at record numbers, we have to think positive; that now is not a time of difficulty and hardships, but a time of opportunity.

And it's with that spirit that I would like to introduce you to LikeWear, who brands themselves as "Fun Clothes for Kids, Exciting Career Opportunities for Mom!"


First, let me tell you about their clothing...it's great!  Kids go nuts for the many prints, including their favorite candies, and these pieces practically sell themselves.

The kind folks at LikeWear sent my Littlest Guy a LikeWear Dude t-shirt to try and Mom to review.  He loved the design, style, and fit but Mom wanted to test durability.

After almost two months of wear and wash (at least once a week), I'm happy to say I was super impressed with the quality of this t-shirt.  It maintained it's shape; the print did not crack, peel or fade; and, best of all, it did not shrink!

Becoming a LikeWear representative means that you can earn money while selling a product that you feel confident in the quality.

LikeWear Reps earn a base 25 percent commission on their sales.  There is no inventory required.  It's easy to get started, just visit the LikeWear Opportunity page.

Not looking to make money, but interested in earning free and/or discounted clothing?  LikeWear has a plan for you too!

Hosts or Hostesses of LikeWear home parties earn 10 percent of their party sales in merchandise credit.  PLUS:  One 1/2 price item for hosting and another for every $300 in sales, a free white t-shirt customized with any LikeWear image for every $250 in sales, and LikeWear gift certifcates for each confirmed party bookings.

Wow!  That adds up to quite a bit of free stuff!

Visit http://www.likewear.com/ for more information about becoming a Representative or to browse their complete online catalog of fashionable kids' clothing and accessories.

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Beco Baby Carrier Should Be On Your List of Must Haves for Baby

While my boys enjoyed being held, they were also content to sit in bouncers or swings while I tended to household chores.

Not our little princess though. 

Until she walked, she wanted to be held.  I cooked, cleaned, everything with her attached to me.

With her, I understood the need for a baby carrier!

And that's when I was introduced to the beco baby carrier.  These trendy, quality-made baby carriers are the most comfortable baby carrier I've ever used. 


They are a MUST for any parent who wishes to have their hands free while still being close to baby.

You can find the latest Beco Baby Carrier styles at La Stella Blu (http://www.lastellablu.com/).

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Olay Total Effects Body Wash More Than Meets Expectations (Review and Giveaway)

Let’s face it; we all want our skin to look as youthful as possible at any age. With so many moisturizing and anti-aging products available, knowing which one will really keep your skin looking and feeling its best may be overwhelming.

I can agree with that statement, can't you?



When My Blog Spark™ generously offered a chance for me to try the recently introduced (February 2010) Olay® Total Effects Body Wash, I couldn't say yes fast enough.

And after try it, I have just two words for you:  TRY IT!

Regular readers of this blog know that I have a penchant for scents; if it smells good, you've cleared a major hurdle with me.

Not only does Olay® Total Effects body wash have the most heavenly scent, but the moisturizing qualities are AWESOME.

After using this new body wash for week, I have truly noticed an improvement in the overall feel of my skin.   It is softer, smoother.

My skins just feels better.  You know what I mean?

Olay’s most advanced body wash, Total Effects goes beyond cleansing to deeply moisturize and fight 7 signs of aging all over your body by helping to improve elasticity, relieve dryness, deeply moisturize, brighten dull skin, even skin tone, smooth rough skin, and minimize the appearance of dry lines. I'll have to be honest and say that I haven't noticed a difference in skin tone; but considering that all the other claims have more than exceeded my expectations, then I have no doubt that, with extended use, I will indeed see a bright, more even skin tone.

This is a product you HAVE to try.

Olay Total Effects body wash is available at Walmart and other major retailers.   Suggested retail price is $7.99. 

Consider that a little pricey?  Me too, but this one that quality is well worth the price.

After snatching a free sample from Walmart, register for your chance to win a $10 Walmart Gift Card courtesy of My Blog Spark™ and Olay®!

Here's How To Enter:

• Leave a comment here and tell me what brand of body wash you typical use.  Be sure to include your email address (or have on your profile).  This portion of the contest is mandatory.

Want Extra Entries?  (please leave a comment for each additional entry; i.e., 5 extra entries = 5 comments)

• Become a fan of The Mom Trap on Facebook (2 extra entries)
• Become a Facebook Fan of Olay. (2 extra entries)
• Follow The Mom Trap on Twitter. (1 extra entry)
• Retweet this giveaway on Twitter; clude status URL here and be sure to include @kdcantrell in your Tweet. (3 extra entries)
• Follow The Mom Trap via Google Friend Connect (1 extra entry)
• Add The Mom Trap button to your site or blog. (3 extra entries)
• Blog about this giveaway and include your post URL in your comment. (5 extra entries)

The Fine Print: Contest ends at 11:59:59 PM Central Time on Friday, March 26, 2010. Winner will be chosen by random number generator. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Open to U.S. and territories residents only. Void where prohibited. Winner will be announced here and notified via email on Saturday, March 27, 2010, and will have 48 hours to claim their prize or an alternate winner will be chosen.

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Mirra Mirra On the Wall (Product Review and Giveaway)

Good morning everyone!  Are you ready to hear about another great product and geared up for a GIVE-A-WAY!

Today I want to tell you about a new, awesome beauty products line being introduced by Kroger called Mirra.

As a member of the Global Influence Network, I recently received, courtesy of The Kroger Company, a complimentary kit to try that included several of these natural ingredient products.  And here's my thoughts:

• Daily Shampoo and Conditioner:   Specifies that it smoothes and tames - which can SO apply to my hair! lol - but while the scent is AWESOME and my hair was very soft, it just couldn't control my unruly locks. 
  
• Daily Strong Sculpting Gel:  Again, the scent ROCKS!  And I loved this gel!  It gave my hair great shape without the icky stiffness or stickness you get from some gels.  
  
• Replenshing Body Wash:  Made with a combination of honey extracts, bamboo, and glyceryl oleate, this body wash has the best scent you could ever hope for (are you seeing a pattern here?)!   While it replenishes my skin, the sweet smelling gives off a "sense of well-being."  I just felt more energetic.  Wow!
  
• Exfoliating and Detoxifying Cleanser:  With a blend of apricot (which smelled oh. so. good!) and oxygenated derma-beads, this product gently removes dead cells and nutures cell renewal.  This product was just what I expected; nothing more, nothing  less.  The results from it were comparable to other brands with the same claims.  But it smells good! lol
  
• Micro Remodeling Cream:  This product promises to firm you up in those saggy little spots like your chin, jaw line, and brows.  Well...after two weeks I didn't see any signs of firming, or even a little uplifting, but it did make skin incredibly smooth.  So I've decided to use it as a moisturizer instead; and if the firming ever comes along, then great.  (Oh, as for smell, it's okay but nothing like the other products in this line!)

Out of a score of 100, I'd readily give the Mirra beauty products a score of 85.  Keep in mind, everyone's skin is different so what may not have worked for me may very well work for you.

Try it and see!  And click here to save $5.00 off your purchase at any Kroger or Kroger brand store.

But that's not all....The Kroger Company is generously offering one lucky reader of The Mom Trap a kit similar to what I received.

Here's how you can win:

• Leave a comment here telling me why you would like to try Mirra beauty products.  (Mandatory entry)

Want extra entries? (please leave a comment for each additional entry; i.e., 5 extra entries = 5 comments)

• Become a fan of The Mom Trap on Facebook (2 extra entries)
• Follow The Mom Trap on Twitter. (1 extra entry)
• Retweet this giveaway on Twitter; clude status URL here and be sure to include @kdcantrell in your Tweet. (3 extra entries)
• Follow The Mom Trap via Google Friend Connect (1 extra entry)
• Add The Mom Trap button to your site or blog. (3 extra entries)
• Blog about this giveaway and include your post URL in your comment.  (5 extra entries)

The Fine Print: Contest ends at 11:59:59 PM Central Time on Friday, March 19 2010. Winner will be chosen by random number generator. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Open to U.S. and territories residents only. Void where prohibited.  Winner will be announced here and notified via email on Saturday, March 20, 2010, and will have 48 hours to claim their prize or an alternate winner will be chosen.

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Babies Are Cruisin' Dry with New Pampers (Giveaway too! {CLOSED})

Did you know that a nine-month-old baby can crawl up to a quarter of a mile in 20 minutes? And a cruising baby can take as many steps, in one day, as a marathon runner?

Wow!



Since our little princess started walking last month, I would swear she's more than doubled that!

And with a little "rear in gear" it's important to have a diaper that is flexible but still performs its diaper "duties."

When Pampers provided me with a week's free supply of their newly redesigned Cruisers, I was ecstatic.

I've been using Pampers brand now for many years....since my oldest son (now 18) was in diapers.

This was the first time though I had ever used the Cruisers style.

Za-bam! Now here is a diaper that's designed for an itty-bitty on the go!

Thinner than your typical diapers but still protecting that precious baby skin from the "yuckies" (in my opinion, even better than before!), these Sesame Street decorated diapers mold to baby; creating flexibility to do what baby does best: move.

If you got a little precious that is or about to be mobile, you've got to try Pampers Cruisers with Dry-Max. Visit http://www.pampers.com/ to receive a free sample and then register for the giveaway here!

I think you'll agree that these diapers ROCK!

{GIVEAWAY CLOSED.  Winner:  see above)

GIVEAWAY! Pampers is kindly offer one lucky reader of The Mom Trap the chance to win a week's supply of the new Pampers Cruisers.... AND a Liz Lange ($50 ARP) Clutch!

Here's how you do it:

• Leave a comment with the size diaper your little Cruiser wears. Make sure your email address is included or at least in your profile so that you can be contacted if you win.

Want extra entries? (Leave a comment for each additional entry; i.e. 2 extra entries = 2 comments)

• Become a Pampers' Facebook Fan at www.facebook.com/pampers (1 extra entry. Already follow? That counts too!)
• Become a Facebook Fan of The Mom Trap at www.facebook.com/themomtrap (1 extra entry. Current followers also receive extra entry.)
• Follow The Mom Trap with Google Friend Connect. (1 extra entry. Current followers included.)
• Follow The Mom Trap on Twitter (1 extra entry. Current followers included.)
• Tweet this giveaway for 5 extra entries. (Include the Tweet status URL in your comment.)
  
• Blog about this giveaway for 5 extra entries. (Be sure to include the URL of your post in your comment)

The Fine Print: Contest ends at 11:59:59 PM Central Time on Friday, March 12, 2010. Winner will be chosen by random number generator. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Open to U.S. and territories residents only. Winner will be announced here and notified via email on Saturday, March 13, 2010, and will have 48 hours to claim their prize or an alternate winner will be chosen.

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Do You Have Mid-Face Sink?

Getting older happens.

But it doesn't mean you just have to give in to it.

As we age, we lose natural collagen which gives a "mid-face sink" appearance; that sunken, hollowed look to the cheeks and under eye area.

And if that isn't bad enough, age results in yellow, sallow and thin, which really highlights the mid-face sink.



At 36, I'm beginning the long battle of keeping the effects of aging at bay.

I was excited when GoodSkin Labs offered to let me try their latest in skincare innovation: Filextra™ Facial Revolumizing Treatment with Collagen.

Filextra's Triple Action Reconstruction works to boost natural collagen production, which visibly corrects the effects of the "mid-face sink" in three phrases: Rebuild, Refill, and Revolumize.

I've been using Filextra now for almost 5 weeks, and I'm happy to report that I have noticed a clear difference in my skin. The dark circles under my eyes, while still there, are less visible while my cheeks, forehead, and chin - all areas prone to uneven skin tones is sporting a more homogeneous color all over.

Looking better makes me feel better. And while it's a feeling that's priceless, why spend hundreds or thousands of dollars with a dermatologist when you can get the same results at home?

Filextra™ is available at Kohl's, online or in stores, for only $42.50.

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I * Love * These Sippy Cups!

I've always been excited when one of my four children was ready to start drinking from something other than the bottle.

But I have to admit I'm not a fan of the sippy cup either.

After watching my little ones suck and suck on a sippy cup, I tried it myself. And while I had a much easier time getting liquid out, it still took a lot of effort.



So, after a while, I just removed the flow valve.

Which then leads to spills.

Ugh.

When provided with free samples of the new-to-the-U.S. trainer cups by Tomme Tippee®, I really didn't hold out a lot of hope that they would be much a different. But I'm willing to try anything once.

WOW! WOW! WOW!

FINALLY....someone has listened to these complaints and created a sippy cup that WORKS.

I have been a Mom for 18 years now, and I have never found a product where I have seen such a HUGE improvement.

Designed by a physicist to be both so sensitive that liquid flows on demand yet truly remain spill and leak proof, Tommee Tippee® are created with BPA Free plastics in stages starting as early as 6 months.

I am so very impressed with these AWESOME sippy cups from Britian's #1 baby feeding brand and STRONGLY recommend them to everyone!



P.S. Join Tommee Tippee on Twitter, and enter their sweepstakes on Facebook!

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Find Quality, Affordable Hair Accessories at Zirimi (Review)

As I've mentioned several times, my daughter was blessed with an extraordinary amount of hair.

Since the day she was born, people have commented on how much hair she has; and, of course, being my only girl, following three brothers, she always wears cute hair accessories.

I was so excited when Rebecca of Zirimi Hair Accessories asked me to try and review their product.

As soon as they arrived, Andi and I started playing. There was so many cute and fun styles, we weren't sure where to start!

First things first, let me say that these hair accessories are very well made. VERY. WELL. MADE.    

If you're a mom, you're familiar with how destructive baby hands can be; so well constructed, durable products are a MUST.

Zirimi passed that test, hands down! :)

And when it comes to hair accessories, staying power is requirement.

Passed! Especially the alligator clips. How often have you purchased hair pieces on an alligator clip only to find the clip is not very tight and slides out of the hair? Too many, right?

Not with Zimiri hair clips! We tried several styles, and they stayed put...for hours! Through naps! Wow, huh?

I was impressed!

Lastly....let's face it, the cute factor is truthfully the most important thing. It's the first thing that attracts us.

Again, Zimiri passes with flying colors!

For us, we (okay, "I" since she's just one) loved the crocheted pieces since they are both contemporary and retro; depending on what you're wearing. And retro is HOT right now!

Zirimi gets a huge THUMBS UP from me and Andi!

When you shop Zirimi, you'll also be support two Moms who founded this company on a friendship and a knowledge of what other Moms want when it comes to girls.

We love their hair clips, bows, and headbands. I'm sure you will too!

Visit http://www.zirimi.com/ and find the quality, adorable hair accessories you've been looking for!

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Katie Bug Shoes.com: THE Place for Pickle Squeaker Shoes (Review and Giveaway)

Squeaker shoes are all the rage these days, especially for little ones learning to walk.

With a "squeak, squeak" here and a "squeak, squeak" there, beginning toddlers are encouraged to walk.

My 11-month-old daughter has just started to take her first independent steps and many times I've eyed pairs of squeaky shoes, wondering if I should give them a try.

And that's when Katie Bug Shoes swooped in and saved me from my indecision with a free pair to try and review.

My little princess LOVES the squeaky sounds! So much so that even when she's not trying to step, she's stomping her foot!

I only have one complaint when it comes to this adorable little footwear: taking them off has resulted in temper tantrums! (Other pairs of shoes she does her best to kick off, so this reaction alone speaks VOLUMES!)

My baby girl may love the squeak, but I like the way that simple little sound helps to keep track of my exploring tot. (Maybe that makes me a bit cynical but...)

Katie Bug Shoes is the exclusive carrier of Pickle, squeaky shoes designed for style, durability, and comfort.

I opted to try Orange Blossom because it so perfectly matches many of the Gymboree® lines.* There's nothing like a great, well-fitting shoe to match your outfit!

And now I'm trying to decide which pair I want to buy. I'm pretty sure we'll own each style before our Princess outgrows the love of squeakers!

Katie Bug Shoes offers (obviously) comfortable, stylish, quality shoes at affordable prices for both girls and boys. FREE SHIPPING too! (U.S. only)

*Katie Bug Shoes.com is not nor does not claim to be associated with Gymboree Corporation. The statements made in reference to this company is my own personal observations and should not be considered a claim of affiliation or endorsement of by Katie Bug Shoes.

Win A Pair of Katie Bug Shoes! Katie Bug Shoes is generously offering one lucky reader of The Mom Trap a free pair of squeaker shoes of their choice!

Here's how to enter:

• Visit Katie Bug Shoes (link opens in new window) and then leave a comment telling me the name of your favorite style.

Want extra entries?

• Become a Fan of The Mom Trap's new Facebook page: 1 extra entry.
  
  
• Follow Katie Bug Shoes on Facebook: 1 extra entry.
  
  
• Follow The Mom Trap on Twitter: 1 extra entry
  
  
• Follow Katie Bug Shoes on Twitter: 1 extra entry
  
  
• Tweet this giveaway and leave the Tweet URL in your comment (be sure to include @kdcantrell): 3 extra entries
  
  
• Follow The Mom Trap with Google Friend Connect: 1 extra entry
  
  
• Add The Mom Trap Button to your blog: 3 extra entries
  
  
• Blog about this giveaway and include the post URL in your comment: 5 extra entries.

The Fine Print: Must be 18 or older to enter. Open to U.S. Residents only. Void where prohibited. Contest begins January 11, 2010, and ends at 11:59:59 p.m. on February 1, 2010; at which time a winner will be randomly chosen using Random.org. Winner will be notified via email within 24 hours and must respond within 48 hours to maintain winner status. Failure to provide a valid email and/or shipping address will result in forfeiture of prize.

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