Melissa and Doug Coupon Code

I LOVE Melissa and Doug toys. If money grew on trees, I would buy every product they sell. Alas, money doesn't grow on trees, so I will have to only buy what I can afford.
Today Melissa & Doug gave out a coupon code for 15% of your purchase for us bloggers to post for our fans! 15% off your purchase!

Check out the Melissa & Doug homepage and enter code BLOGGER15 at checkout to get your 15% off. Expires midnight, 9/1/11.

Tell us, what did you use it on?

Taggie "B"outique Review

One of our own blogging mamas also owns her own business.  She sent me some items to review for her business and I was completely ecstatic when I saw what all she sent me.  Her business is Taggie "B"outique and she does a little of everything.


The first thing we opened and saw and I gave to little baby girl was a touch and feel ball that has different materials to make the ball and a play tomato.  Little baby girl really loved these.  She even tried to play with the doggie with them.  They are constructed very nicely and they seem like they are going to be very sturdy.

The next thing we pulled out and used was an upcycled denim bag.  I put little baby girl's ball and tomato into it and let her go to town.  I loved the bag.  I love anything that gets upcycled and used for something else.  She carries it around everywhere.  Craftmanship was excellent on this item as well.

Then I opened it up to find some things in there for mama.  First was this beautiful upcycled purse/bag that I have been using religiously since I got it.  I love the butterflies on it.  The strap is very stretchy and even stands up to little baby girl pulling on it.  There is a pocket located on the outside.  Sadly I do wish there was a pocket on the inside.  I like having a place on the inside of my purses/bags to put my cell phone.  Being on the outside scares me lol.  But it is still awesome, awesome enough I am still using it!

Then I found some cloth wipes.  We don't use them as much as we use to anymore but I thought I would try them out.  They even came with a sample of Clean B wipe solution.  They were as expected.  Sturdy, great, and put together very well.  There were two different sets but they both worked very good.  I think these are some of my faves with the cloth wipes.

Then I got to pull out something I love love love--mama cloth.  However, due to the timing I was unable to try it out.  I mean kind of hard to try out mama cloth while pregnant :)  But I found a friend who tried it out.  She had never used mama cloth before.  She was a little hesitant at first.  I mean it is something you have to wash after you have used...not just throw into the garbage.  However, she came back and told me she loved it and wanted to buy more!  She said her only complaint....there was only one!  I decided to let her keep that one and pointed her to the direction of Taggie "B"outique!  

Sadly the last item I was sent I did not get pictures of.  I lost my camera and just recently found it and didn't get pictures.  But I am going to show one of hers that she sells.  This was a number matching set.  The one we got was purple and pink.  The numbers are constructed with the same material used to make the carry case.  They are great to use.  Little baby girl has so much fun with them.  Now if we can get her to stop trying to eat the numbers lol.  I totally would buy this set for any one I know whose child is having a birthday come up!  Wonderful!

So where can you go to order from her?  To her Facebook page.  And right now for anyone who makes an order the week this posting is up (so from now until September 1st!) you will receive a surprise gift from her included with your order.  WOW!  So stop over and check her stuff out and let her know LFOUH sent you! Her prices are reasonable, her work is exceptional, and of course she is own of our very own Mom bloggers :)

Artistic Letters Review

As a rule, I don't find myself very creative. I love things other people make, but have no clue how to do it my self. I have tried scrapbooking, and never really got into it. So when I looked at reviewing Artistic Letters, I was a little (OK a lot) intimidated, but I was amazed at how easy it was!

Photographer Jodi Gerber of ArtisticLetters has created an entire catalog of black & white letter images throughout the past 4 years – all by taking photos of objects in nature and architecture that resembled letters of the alphabet. She recently decided to offer her ENTIRE catalog of 400+ letter images to the public on CD or Download so that anyone could create their own designs! It’s a truly original way to make artwork for your home - or even for scrapbooking, greeting cards, wedding invitations, baby’s birth, etc. Endless possibilities for whatever the mind can imagine and tutorials to help you along the way!

So far, this is what I have created:

A friend of mine just had a baby, so I made her a gift for her daughter's room.I think this will be my new baby shower gift for all my friends!

For my daughter, I used the Artistic Letters for her name, and added text with her full name, and the meaning of each name. Since we have wall decals for her room, I used a black background, and put some of the flowers on the print.

The tutorials that Jodi provides are so easy that even I was able to feel creative! I have so many ideas of things I was to try! The possibilities are endless!!

I am going to print out the letters JOY, and putting them in a collage frame then filling it with pictures of my babies. I am just bursting with ideas to try!

Here is the best part: Jodi teamed up with me and is offering my readers Exclusive Discounted Pricing of up to $5 Off! Please visit her website www.BuyAlphabetPhotos.com and browse the images, testimonials, and ideas.
Then click on the “Unexpected Happiness” page and enter HAPPY as the password. You’ll find the exclusive pricing and bonus freebie choices there.

FREEBIE ALERT: Jodi also offered my readers a Freebie alphabet set (with purchase) as a Bonus! And here’s the great part – you get to choose a Damask set from 6 different galleries! More info is available on the “Unexpected Happiness” page at www.BuyAlphabetPhotos.com
.
The Exclusive Pricing and Freebie offer expires Thursday, August 25 at 10 p.m. Eastern so be sure you take advantage of this great deal while it lasts.
You can also visit Jodi’s facebook page and click “Like” to find more info, freebies, giveaways, and receive future promotions.

So, what will you create?


I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

For Your Bug-A-Boo Review and Giveaway Ends 8/31!--EXTENDED to Sept 4th! ~CLOSED~

Congrats to Erica Houston for winning the ImseVimse Cloth Diaper!

I recently ran across a really great store that is close to my home.  I had frequented the site many many months ago and had considered ordering some diapers but we used mainly BumGenius at the time and always found it was cheaper to buy them used.  Recently my daughter became super sensitive to suede cloth so we were on a hunt for a new diaper.  So I started looking some more at this site.  They had some natural fiber diapers but I had never used any of these kind before and was a little hesitant.

I was happy when I found out that For Your Bug-a-Boo wanted to send me a diaper to review.  Guess which one?? One of the ones I wanted to try but did not know if it was worth the cost.  Cheri ( a very wonderful person) sent me an Imse Vimse to review.  These are not your more popular diapers.  I had only seen these diapers on a few site and they never really caught my eye.  They run typically at around $23.50 a diaper and are sized.  Realistically for my family sized diapers are not what we look for.  We tend to look for one sized diapers.  However due to my current situation this was a perfect change to see about sized diapers.

When I got the diaper in I was a little worried it wouldn't fit.  I am so use to one size diapers that this diaper looked very large to me.  My daughter is only 24 pounds at 20 months and Larges usually are really big on her. But the fit was amazing!  And it is not on it's smallest setting either.

The diaper is an All-in-One but designed differently then most AIO I have seen.  There is the outer portion of and on the inside it is made of little flap like inserts that are only top sewed into it.  One problem I have found with AIOs is that they are all sewn together and drying time for them is horrible.  However, the drying time with these are just the same as most of my other diapers.

One great benefit that I can see first off is that you can set the diaper up for a boy or girl.  Since you need to absorb more in different locations you can place the diaper how you need to based on more absorbancy in the front or back.  The diaper also has outer and inner gussets.  This keeps from having any leaks and I have only found a couple other diapers like this.

The diaper is truly amazing. Not only because of the design of the diaper but because of the way the diaper fits.  It is not bulky or thick but does give the absorbancy needed.  We have found this diaper to be a great nighttime diaper.  It lasts well through the night for us.

Now to the only downfall I have.  This is a personal preference downfall, the diaper is aplix (velcro).  I personally prefer snaps to aplix.  However, the aplix on this diaper is pretty sturdy and pretty durable.  My biggest problems with aplix is that my 20 month old child can remove it.  However we have had no issues with her removing the diaper.

Again the fit is very good and not bulky.  Even under her clothes it is less noticeable than many other diapers I have.  I think that I would without a doubt by more of these diapers in the future.  Even though they are run about $23.50 they are great and definitely worth it.

Now Cheri, the lady who runs For Your Bug-a-Boo is absolutely amazing and wonderful. She is definitely one of those store owners I would make sure to by my products from even if her prices were not the lowest I found.  There are times when you prefer to go with what you know and trust then the lowest price you found.

Information on the diaper:

All in One Organic Diaper by Imse Vimse

• All-in-One diapers with a modern design
• soft and stretchy fabric provides a comfortable fit for baby
• signature ImseVimse soft leg-gussets keep everything contained
• soft and adjustable hook and loop closure for quick and easy diaper changes
• fold-back laundry tabs prevent snags when washing
• waterproof, yet breathable outer fabric (PUL) is both soft and durable
• diaper soaker layers are made with 100% certified organic cotton terry
• designed with internal flaps to allow thorough washing and quick drying
• flap-style soaker design allows the versatility of either stay-dry micro fleece or certified organic cotton next to babies skin
• wash on warm or hot 140-195°F/60-90°C, tumble dry low
• available in sizes from newborn to toddler
Made in Sweden


Now for the great news!  Cheri, from For Your Bug-a-Boo has generously decided to give one lucky reader their very own Imse Vimse in their choice of size.  WOW! Which means you can put this fabulous diaper on your little one's little tushy!  All you have to do is go through the Rafflercopter entry below and just click on the instructions and do what it says.  :) Easy Peasy!

RECENTLY ADDED 8/22/11 @11:13 AM PST (EVEN BETTER!!)

Per Cheri-

Let's offer your readers a coupon code for 20% off!  The promo code is:

LFOUH20

And it will expire on 9/30/11

I only wish I'd have known________________!

Well, since Mama Carol is pregnant, it got me thinking of my own pregnancy woes. With 5 pregnancies, I have had 3 c-sections, 2 emergencies, and 1 planned. I have had all kinds of morning sickness, exhaustion, aches & pains, you name it! It's true what they say, each pregnancy is different. I have learned through the years things that have helped, and things I wish I had known in the beginning. The biggest thing I wish I had known is the effectiveness of Chiropractic care during pregnancy.
I have never has difficult pregnancies, but I have had difficult deliveries. I am only 5'2", and have a history of posterior babies. (Baby is face up instead of face down)
During my forth pregnancy, I couldn't move with out screaming in pain. The pain was just below my right hip. It was unbearable. After some internet research, I decided to seek the care of a chiropractor. I found a woman who works with families, and is trained for pregnancies very close to home, so I went. If I only knew sooner! Turned out my pelvis was so out of alignment that my legs were different lengths! After a few weeks of care, I could move again! Since I had been like this for so many years, it is taking some time to have my body keep the proper alignment, but the difference has been amazing!

What are the benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy?
According to the American Pregnancy Association potential benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy include:

Maintaining a healthier pregnancy
Controlling symptoms of nausea (Couldn't hurt)
Reducing the time of labor and delivery (Really wish I had known that one!)
Relieving back, neck or joint pain
Prevent a potential cesarean delivery

If I only had known, I may have saved my self those difficult deliveries!
So, I want to know, What do you wish you had known before your first pregnancy or delivery?
Any hints for Carol this time around?
I only wish I'd have known ______________!



The Chiropractic Way: How Chiropractic Care Can Stop Your Pain and Help You Regain Your Health Without Drugs or Surgery

Such wonderful news :)

Sometimes we get blessings we want and sometimes we get blessings we don't but those are some of the unexpected happinesses we have to deal with.  After almost 20 months since the birth of my youngest I have found out I am pregnant!

So I am sure like most of you I tested and tested!  Yesterday I went to Family Planning and found out 100% that I was pregnant and I am due April 6, 2012, Easter weekend!  Boy, am I happy!  So NOW my issue is finding an OB who does VBAC.  I really don't want another C-section if I can avoid it.  But since I am in Washington it is harder to find.

But on the bright side, I am pregnant and happy to be!  I am 5 weeks today, so there is the normal fear all women have....will I carry to 3 months? 6 months? Birth??

Well only time will tell.  But here is hoping for a health and happy 9 months!

Confessions of a Cloth Diaper Addict and AMP Duo Review

I am a cloth diaper addict. I admit it. I have tried tons of brands, and have quite a diverse stash.
I started cloth diapering almost 5 years ago, when I was expecting my third child. I was only doing it to save money. I only wish I knew then what I know now. It is amazing how many options there are for cloth diapering! These days, you can use cloth diapers with almost any budget!
Right now, I have to say my favorite diaper is the AMP Duo Pocket diaper. This diaper can be used as an All In Two, or as a pocket diaper, and comes in a 2 size system, or as a one sized diaper. The small size fits babies 6-18 lbs, and the large fits 15-30 lbs.

AMP comes in a variety of vibrant colors.


When using the diaper as a AI2, you simply place your insert in the cover, and can re-use the cover until it is soiled.There are many different insert choices. AMP offers Bamboo, Hemp, Microfiber, and Cotton Fleece. They also offer boosters, and liners.I have tried the 2 layer hemp, and the bamboo inserts, both with great success.The hemp works wonderful for overnights. Baby girl wakes happy and dry.
I especially love that these diapers are designed, and manufactured in my home town. The owner takes pride in providing quality diapers.The sized Duo diaper is priced at $18.00 and the one size is $20.00
I have been using these diapers for 2 months, and have not had a single leak!
I highly recommend AMP Duo! Give them a try, you won't regret it! Buy them at the AMP store here: http://www.ampdiaperstore.com/

Win a Kodak C195 Digital Camera Ends August 14th!

Welcome to our August Blog Giveaway! We have teamed up with some amazing blogs to offer an amazing giveaway that will run from August 1^st to August 14^th! 

Ben's Outlet has been awesome enough to sponsor an AMAZING Camera for this month's Blog Hop Giveaway!

KODAK EASYSHARE C195 Digital Camera

With 5X optical zoom the KODAK EASYSHARE C195 Digital Camera lets you shoot top-notch pictures with ease. And, when you press Kodak’s Share button, you can instantly tag and share those pictures with the world.

To enter this giveaway, all you have to do is follow Ben's Outlet on Facebook and each blog… either via GFC, Networked Blogs, or email… That will get you a full sixteen entries. If you want extra entries, you can do this by following each blog on Facebook and/or Twitter.

To enter – fill in the entry form below! (Comments, though appreciated are not counted as an entry) Also, we would love if you could let Ben's Outlet know that you appreciate this giveaway!