Sage and Savvy-Product Reviews, Giveaways, and More!: August 2008

Sunday, August 31, 2008

Review: Unique Skins

At one of last year’s holiday parties at my former employer, I won an iTouch, so when the opportunity arose to review Unique Skins courtesy of the Family Review Network, I knew just what I was going to create my Skin for.

What exactly are Skins? According to the Unique Skins website,“They're adhesive-backed vinyl pieces pre-cut to fit your electronic device.” As for the type of material they use, they chose “to use Cast vinyl manufactured by the leader in the industry 3M. The 3M™ Controltac™ with Comply assures the customer of a higher gloss and non-visible air release channels for bubble free application. Other features of this high end material include pressure activation, slideability and repositionability for fast and easy applications. Here at Unique Skins we use a cast vinyl and also a cast laminate to protect the quality of the image.”

Unique Skins lets you design your own Skin for your mobile phone, mp3 player, laptops, and game consoles, and if you can’t find your device, you can send them a request! Creating your Skin is simple. After you select what product you want to design your Skin for, you’re taken to a design screen where you can create a Skin with ready-to-use images from their library, or you can upload your own photos. You can add text and multiple photos, and if you have any trouble, they offer tutorials to help you through the process.

Upon receiving my Skin just a few days later, I applied it on my iTouch. I had no problems applying it to the back of the iTouch, but I did have a little difficulty applying the

Skin to the front of my iTouch only because of the thin edges—I didn’t want to break or stretch it out, so I went very slowly, and ended up having to reposition it a few times. Despite that, the overall process took only a few minutes. The Skin went on smoothly with no air bubbles, the fit was perfect, and the end result looked great.

When I showed DH the iTouch with the Unique Skin, he was really impressed too!

Check out Unique Skins for more information on their product line. They offer an inexpensive way to personalize your electronic device and you’ll be impressed with how quick and easy it is to create your own customized Skin. They even offer to replace your Skin if it starts to smudge, fade, or wear…for free! So what are you waiting for?!

Thank you to Unique Skins for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Saturday, August 30, 2008

Giveaway, Review: Stubby Pencil Studio

One day I found DS chewing on the tip of a crayon, and it totally freaked me out! Although the box said “non-toxic,” I decided to research safer, eco-friendly crayons, and found Prang Fun Pro Soy Crayons being offered at Stubby Pencil Studio.

Stubby Pencil Studio has so many products that not only your kids will love, but you will too. According to their website, Stubby Pencil Studio was launched in 2006 by Kate Rosenthal, “after she realized there was a need for eco-friendly, do-it-yourself stationery products for young children…In addition to stationery, Stubby Pencil Studio offers unique and earth-friendly art supplies…You’ll also find natural play dough, non-toxic toys and wooden craft kits that are made in the USA, and many other fun and creative eco products for children.”

When I got my box of Stubby Pencil Studio goodies, I couldn’t help but be a bit jealous of DS. I wish I had some of those goodies when I was a little kid! Along with the Prang Fun Pro Soy Crayons, which are made of soybeans and they draw/color just as well as “regular” crayons, I also received the following:

Smencils: They’re made out of recycled newspaper and they come in a variety of fun scents. I love how they smell!
Recycled Sketchbook: I admit--I’ll be using this and not DS. It was too cute to give up!
Natural Play Dough: Completely safe, fun to play with, and comes in a variety of yummy fragrances.
Colored & Graphite Pencils: A variety of pencils that were made from recycled wood or reforested sources.
Cotton Canvas Bag: I finally have a non-store specific reusable bag that I can use anywhere!
Maped Pencil Sharpener Can: Cute designs and it's great that the canister holds all the shavings so you can dump them out later.
Recycled Cards: These are very neat, because your kids can decorate the cards on their own and write their own message inside!
Key chain: A cute little puppy made out of eco-friendly materials.
Made by Me toy: Your little one can not only build a wooden toy, but he or she can decorate it too!

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED***

Congratulations to Izzie!

Wouldn’t you like to win some of these products for your child(ren)? Well, Stubby Pencil Studio is generously sponsoring a giveaway of an awesome prize package (over a $45 value!) with the following items: 6x9 Recycled Sketchbook (winner's choice of design); Sample pack of 8 color 'n kids cards; Box of 24 Prang Fun Pro Soy crayons; Set of 10 Colored Smencils; Box of Clipper Jr. triangular pencils + natural eraser; Trio pencil sharpener.

To enter, visit Stubby Pencil Studio and comment on which product that’s NOT in the prize package you like the best.

You’ll get one extra entry each if you

1)Subscribe to my feed; 2) Blog about this giveaway and link back to BOTH Sage and Savvy and Stubby Pencil Studio (be sure to leave a comment for each "entry").

The deadline for entries is September 6, 2008, 11:59pm HST.

A winner from all eligible entries will be chosen by random.org and notified via email on September 7, 2008 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment) and will have 3 days to accept.

Valid for US addresses only.

Good luck, and thank you for visiting Sage and Savvy and Stubby Pencil Studio!

Thank you to Stubby Pencil Studio for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Review: All the better to kiss you with Lip Balm by BABYBEARSHOP

If you’ve read some of my previous posts, you may know that I’ve had some serious chapped lipped issues, but I’ve been very pleased with the results of some of the natural lip balms I've tried. There’s one problem though—whenever I want to use one of them, I have to go searching for them! I’ll keep one in my purse, but I’ll use another purse, or one will be upstairs and I’m searching for it downstairs.

So you can imagine how happy I was when I received an Eco Gift Box of 3 All the better to kiss you with lip balms from BABYBEARSHOP. No more hunting down lip balms!

BABYBEARSHOP was created by Diana Lussenden Stewart as a result of having a child with allergies. Realizing there was a need for safe, natural products she could use on her child, Diana began making them on her own. BABYBEARSHOP's website states: “Babies are given a chance at a pure beginning and though we unfortunately can't offer them the purest environment, we can make informed decisions for their well-being. BABYBEARSHOP™ products contain 100% plant-derived ingredients, are 100% natural and made with 99% organic ingredients. The lip balm is USDA certified organic and the other products have certifications pending.”

The lip balms are stylishly packaged in vintage recyclable tins and smell yummy. The pepperminty was cool and refreshing. The lavender vanilla was mild and soothing. The chai mandarin was light and fruity. Unlike the lip balms that I normally use that come in a tube, you have to use your finger to swipe it on, but I don’t mind that at all. And of course, the lip balms work, as my lips are smooth and kissable!

Visit BABYBEARSHOP to find out more about their lip balms and the other great natural products that they offer. If you’ve been hesitant to try safer alternatives to the products you normally use on yourself or on your children, it’s never too late to start. After all, according to BABYBEARSHOP, “Every day is a new chance to make the best choices for our children, their future, and the world we live in.”

I couldn’t agree more.

Thank you to BABYBEARSHOP for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Wordless Wednesday: Daily Exercise

Visit Wordless Wednesday or 5 Minutes for Mom for more participants.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Giveaway, Review: a b sea

Have you ever heard of Silkseas? I haven’t, until I found the website of eco-company a b sea. According to their website, a b sea was founded by mother and daughter team Rene and Alexis, and they created Silkseas, which “are a b sea’s signature line of washable silk onesies and twosies: oneseas and twoseas! a b sea created a blend of majority silk with just enough organic cotton, for washing’s sake. Organic cotton is nature’s best fiber for high performance, elasticity and absorbency. Unlike pure organic cottons, our silk blends breathe easy in summer and hold heat in winter. We blend 70% natural silk with 30% organic cotton for incredibly soft, beautiful little washables. Our original organic blend is healthy for babies and kind to delicate skin.”

a b sea offers clothing in several styles and sea-inspired colors for babies size 0-24 months, and they even offer gift certificates! For all you expecting mommies, a b sea also offers a gift registry, so you can go ahead and register for their wonderful Silkseas products.

Now, when I think of silk, I think of a luxurious fabric. When I received a Wave Hood Sweater from a b sea to review, that’s the first thing that came to mind—luxury for your little one. I have never felt a combination natural silk and organic cotton piece of clothing before, and let me tell you—the Sweater is super-duper soft. It would definitely feel good against your little one’s skin.

The Wave Hood Sweater is a deep navy blue color, embroidered with a cute little walrus on a

surfboard. It’s not too heavy or too thin—great for a cool evening out or even a breezy day at the park. And what’s great is that it's washable!

Wouldn’t you like to get your hands on one of a b sea’s Silkseas products and see for yourself just how delightful and soft it is? If so, don’t hesitate to enter the giveaway of a Wave Hood Sweater, size 12 mos (approximate value $50) that a b sea has generously donated (Note: their website offers the “Hood Sweater Set” only). This would be perfect for your own little one (or little one-to-be) or as a gift for some(little)one special!

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED***

Congratulations to Ardy22!

Here are the rules:

To enter, visit a b sea and comment on which product you like the best.
You’ll get one extra entry each if you 1)Subscribe to my feed; 2) Blog about this giveaway and link back to BOTH Sage and Savvy and a b sea (be sure to leave a comment for each "entry"). The deadline for entries is September 2, 2008, 11:59pm HST.
A winner from all eligible entries will be chosen by random.org and notified via email on September 3, 2008 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment) and will have 3 days to accept.
Valid for US addresses only.

Good luck, and thank you for visiting both Sage and Savvy and a b sea!

Thank you to a b sea for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Monday, August 25, 2008

Second Baby Bonding

As my due date for DS#2 gets closer and closer, I can’t help but get more and more nervous. Yes, I’m nervous about going into labor and how DS#1 will adjust, but what’s been on my mind lately is bonding with DS#2—will I love him as much as I do DS#1? Will the love come just as “automatically” as it did with DS#1?

When DS#1 was born, I just couldn’t believe how much love I had for this precious little being…now with DS#2 on his way, I can’t help but worry that I won’t be able to bond with him as easily I did with DS#1. I can’t imagine loving DS#2 as much as I do DS#1.

But I've heard and read that you don’t have to give up some of the love you have for your first child to give it to the second. You don’t divide your love—it multiplies!

I’m sure once I see and get to hold DS#2 in my arms, the love will be instantaneous, and I will love both children with all my heart...but I guess it’s normal to have these apprehensions…right?

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Review: Skin MD Natural

It was inevitable…all sorts of samples were being delivered to me and DS, and even for DS#2 who’s not even here yet, and of course DH felt a little left out since he didn’t have anything to try…

Well, he was in luck, because we received a bottle of Skin MD Natural, a Face, Hand & Body Shielding Lotion—perfect for him to test and review!

Neither of us have heard of a “shielding lotion” before. What exactly is it? According to the Skin MD Natural website, “A Shielding Lotion is far more effective as a dry skin care treatment than conventional moisturizing lotions or protective creams…shielding lotion does much more than just treat dry skin – it’s a new kind of skin care product that makes a real difference to all skin types…Skin MD Natural™ is promptly absorbed, without the slightest hint of any greasy or oily feeling or residue, transforming the outer layer of skin into a hydrating invisible shield.”

Well, DH was happy to put this Shielding Lotion to the test. The skin on his feet is the driest, so he used Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion for a week on his left foot.

The results? Well, this is his review, direct and to the point:

Thin and light consistency
Easy to apply
Absorbs quickly
No harsh fragrance
Left foot is noticeably smoother than the right
Works really well
Will continue to use it—on both feet

Man of few words…can you believe he’s an English Major???

Well, I had to feel the results for myself. He was right—his left foot is noticeably smoother. The entire foot—not just the heel! You can really tell the difference.

If you have really dry skin, or just a few problem areas, try Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion and see the difference for yourself! I know I’ll be trying it out!

Thank you to Skin MD Natural for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Discount Reminders!

Don’t forget to take advantage of these special discounts for Sage and Savvy readers, some of which are expiring at the end of this month (click on the link for company and offer details). It’s never too early to start your holiday shopping!

OBLI Organics (organic clothing): 20% off through 8/31/08

Stuff for Sprouts (natural skin care products): 15% off through 8/31/08

Curly Monkey (organic clothing): Free shipping or 10% off wholesale orders through 9/4/08

Bubble & Bee Organic (natural/organic skin care products): Free shipping through 9/1/08; 10% off through 9/30/08 (offers CAN be combined)

Kee-Ka (organic clothing): 15% off through 9/15/08

Little Green Star (organic clothing): 20% off through 9/30/08

Inside Out Kidz (organic clothing): 20% off through 12/11/08

Angelina Organic Skincare (natural/organic skin care products): Free shipping with orders of $100 or more, or $20 off purchases through 2/18/09

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Giveaway, Review: eco ike

Although he can't model it since he hasn't yet arrived, I know DS#2 will look adorable in this onesie courtesy of eco ike.

According to their website, eco ike was launched in 2007 by Faith Moser after the birth of her child, Ike. “Always passionate about the environment, now as a mother she has become even more committed as a ‘full-on earth worry-wart.’ …eco ike strives to use products that are natural, sweatshop-free and 100% fair trade.”

I'm a worry-wart myself when it comes to anything that affects my family, which is why I was excited to find great eco-friendly stores online, such as eco ike. I'm hoping to bring DS#2 into a greener world, and thanks to companies such as eco ike, I can make sure that he at least has a greener wardrobe!

I really like the Hope onesie. First of all it's green--in more ways than one! I love the color green, and what's great is that this onesie is made from 100% organic cotton and is hand-screen printed with water-based inks. It has a cute and simple, yet effective design, spreading a message for peace. And the onesie is oh-so-soft! I know DS#2 will not only look good, but will also feel good in this comfy onesie.

If you have (or know of) a little girl or boy who is (or will be) size 18-24 months, you're in luck, because eco ike has generously donated a Hope Tee for a giveaway ($22 value).

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED***

Congratulations to -Marybeth I.!

To enter, visit eco ike and comment on which design you like the best.
You’ll get one extra entry each if you 1)Subscribe to my feed; 2) Blog about this giveaway and link back to BOTH Sage and Savvy and eco ike (be sure to leave a comment for each "entry").
The deadline for entries is August 28, 2008, 11:59pm HST.
A winner from all eligible entries will be chosen by random.org and notified via email on August 29, 2008 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment) and will have 3 days to accept.
Valid for US addresses only.

Good luck, and thank you for supporting eco ike's mission to "go green & to take care of our small world."

Thank you to eco ike for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Wordless Wednesday: A Day at the Beach

Visit Wordless Wednesday or 5 Minutes for Mom for more participants.

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Freebie: HAPPYBABY Nutrition Guide

Even though DS#2 isn’t here yet, and even after he arrives it’ll be a while until he starts solids, I’m already looking for a variety of organic meal options. While reading through some green blogs, I found out about HAPPYBABY.

HAPPYBABY was introduced in 2006, and according to their website: “HAPPYBABY is committed to making baby food as healthy and delicious as homemade. HAPPYBABY's unique meals are developed by healthcare professionals, parents, and socially responsible businesswomen to ensure your baby gets the essential nutrients needed for optimal growth and development.” Happy Baby offers “Fresh frozen organic baby meals in 15 flavors with a great variety of meats, veggies, grains and fruits for baby’s budding palette. Our trays are BPA FREE, with individual cubes for less waste and no heating in plastic.”

Unfortunately, HAPPYBABY is not carried in Hawaii, which is why I probably never heard of them before, but hopefully they will be offered in Hawaii stores soon. In the meantime, HAPPYBABY is pleased to share with all of you their Nutrition Guide full of feeding advice, ideas, and recipes.

If you’ve tried HAPPYBABY food, let me know what you think!

Monday, August 18, 2008

Discount, Free Shipping: Angelina Organic Skincare

I’m constantly searching for safer and healthier alternatives to the bath and body products I normally use. I have found some great lip balms, and sunscreens with safer and natural ingredients, and I’m constantly searching for new products to try out.

During a recent online search, I found a company that offers natural and organic skin care products—Angelina Organic Skincare. Their website asks a very valid question—“If you choose to eat Certified Organic food, why would you nourish your skin with anything less? The skin is the largest organ of the body, absorbing chemicals and nutrients and eliminating toxins. What we absorb through the very permeable surface of our skin should be pure and healthy, full of antioxidants and nutrients. Angelina Organic Skincare supports your skin's ability to take care of itself and unveil its natural radiance.”

I browsed through their vast selection of products on their site—they offer body washes, massage oils, soaps, creams, toners, and many other items. There are even products for baby! You can also shop by skin concern (dry, oily, acne, mature, eczema/psoriasis), or mood (energize, unwind, show some love).

Wouldn’t you like to treat your skin (or your baby’s) to some natural and healthy products? If so, you’re in luck! Angelina Organic Skin Care is offering the following specials for Sage and Savvy readers:

Free shipping on orders over $100 with code SAGESHIP and selecting the “In Store Pick Up Bend Oregon” shipping option on the REVIEW ORDER page (so no shipping charges will apply); valid for all US except Alaska.

Or

20% discount off purchases with code SAGE20.

Offers cannot be combined with any other discounts, and both offers expire on February 18, 2009.

Your skin deserves the best care, so check out Angelina Organic Skincare and treat your skin to something special!

Sunday, August 17, 2008

Giveaway: Ohgeez Organic Clothing Co. Natural Yoga Pant & Natural Tank

Before I made the decision to start going green, I had no idea about the amount of pesticides that were used on the cotton that’s grown to make our clothing and the effects it had on our environment, not to mention on ourselves. Teresa Myers, owner and founder of Ohgeez Organic Clothing Co. did have an idea of such effects, as she has been in the organic clothing business for many, many years.

According to their website, “Ohgeez always uses certified organic fibers, and the majority of its fabric is milled in the USA. All Ohgeez garments - and everything in and on them from thread to hang tags - are manufactured domestically. The beautiful colored fabric is dyed using a low impact fiber reactive process with minimal effects on our environment…not only is Teresa committed to using all organic fibers and manufacturing in the USA , she has a keen sense of what kids want: comfortable, soft and fun clothes.”

Sage and Savvy is fortunate to have Ohgeez Organic Clothing Co. sponsor a giveaway of a natural yoga pant and natural tank (total value over $50), perfect for a boy or girl, choice of up to size 9/10.

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED***

Congratulations to jennem!

To enter, visit Ohgeez Organic Clothing Co. and comment on which product(s) from the Seaglass Summer 2009 Collection you like the best.
You’ll get one extra entry each if you 1)Subscribe to my feed; 2) Blog about this giveaway and link back to BOTH Sage and Savvy and Ohgeez Organic Clothing Co. (be sure to leave a comment for each "entry").
The deadline for entries is August 24, 2008, 11:59pm HST.
A winner from all eligible entries will be chosen by random.org and notified via email on August 25, 2008 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment) and will have 3 days to accept.
Valid for US addresses only.

Good luck, and thank you for supporting eco-friendly companies such as Ohgeez Organic Clothing Co.

Thank you to Ohgeez Organic Clothing Co. for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Saturday, August 16, 2008

Ideal Bite

As most of you know, I’m trying to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Thankfully there are so many resources out there to help me on my green journey. Especially helpful are the many green blogs I’ve found since I started blogging. And it’s through these green blogs that I learned about Ideal Bite.

Ideal Bite sends you a daily tip via email on how to live greener. What I like about the tips is that they are not overwhelming, as they offer simple recommendations on how to make little changes that will help you in your green journey.

Their website states: “Our secret sauce is a spoonful of ‘incremental environmentalism’ with a ‘keeping-it-real’ attitude... a perfect mix that empowers subscribers to align their values with everyday decisions…Our subscribers are the ones driving their SUV to Whole Foods and drinking organic wine after yoga. These light green consumers want to make small changes that add up to big results, and Ideal Bite spoon feeds them ideas to lead a greener lifestyle.”

Ideal Bite also caters to specific cities (i.e. San Francisco, New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, with many more cities to be added within the next several months), featuring companies, restaurants, and other venues that promote eco-friendliness.

What’s great is that in October 2008 they will be launching Mama Bite, which will be perfect for all you mommies out there!

Ideal Bite’s daily dose of green guidance is easy to swallow and is a great resource that will help you in your journey to becoming a darker shade of green.

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Review: Flippee the Toilet Shield

As I mentioned in a previous post, I don’t like to clean bathrooms. Therefore, I definitely don’t like to clean toilets! (Thankfully DH does the bathroom and toilet cleaning most of the time).

Well, if you’re a mother of a boy, I’m sure you can’t help but cringe whenever there are “misses" and "messes" on the toilet. I’m a mom of one boy with another on the way…but can you imagine being a mom of THREE boys and all the “messes” you’d have to clean up?

Well, Annmarie is a mom of three boys who decided she had enough of

the messes, and she created Flippee the Toilet Shield ($24.95).

Here’s her story from her website: "My middle son, recently potty-trained, stood at the toilet of our newly cleaned bathroom. I stood beside him and coached him to hit the water. He tried so hard, but inevitably, he hit that narrow space between the tank and the toilet base like a bull’s-eye. I jumped, startling him, and it went everywhere! Another day of cleaning for mom. But, it wasn’t the first time this happened. We’d been at this for a couple months. It was just the first time I said, “There’s gotta be a better way!” I spent the next 2 hours drawing up my invention.

There were four features I wanted for my product: easy to clean, easy to store, easy to use, and a quality, space-saving design. Flippee™ has them all!"

Flippee does indeed have all of these features:

Easy to clean: Just spray it with a cleaner (of course I use method) while it’s in the upright position, wipe it down, and that’s it!
Easy to store: When not in use, The Flippee easily stores at the base of the toilet. It does not get in the way at all. In fact, most times I forget it’s even there.
Easy to use: Just “Flip” and “Pee”. What could be easier than that?
A quality, space-saving design: Save space it does, as you don’t need to find space in your closets or cabinets for it since it’s stored on the toilet base.

Installation is a breeze. Just lift up the toilet seat, position the Flippee, and press down on the suction cups. You may have to reposition the Flippee, as I had to, if you find the Flippee doesn’t clear the toilet when bringing it down to the storage position. Despite the repositioning, I still installed it in a matter of SECONDS. Literally. It was that quick and easy!

And how well does it work? Really well, as the Flippee does help in preventing “messes” from “misses.” I even tested it out myself…with a water-filled spray bottle.

I used both the “stream” and “spray” adjustments on the nozzle, and there was no mess on the toilet either time. When I put the Flippee back in the storage position, any liquid that remained on the shield was caught in the Drip Lip, so there was no mess on the floor. If however, there is any liquid on the shield while in the upright position, I would recommend wiping and cleaning it before putting it back in the storage position, since the Flippee may touch the base when in the storage position, and the liquid may get onto it.

If you have one boy or three boys (or more) and are tired of the “misses” and “messes,” get the Flippee. It’s a small price to pay for such a big time (and sanity) saver.

Thank you to ReeAssured Products, LLC for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Giveaway: TruKid Healthy Habits Pack

Not too long ago I posted about two TruKid products I tried from their Healthy Habits Pack—their Spiffy Spearmint Lip Balm and Sunny Days SPF 30+ Natural Mineral Sunscreen, both of which I love and use all the time on both myself and DS.

Guess what? TruKid is generously sponsoring a giveaway of a Healthy Habits Pack ($40 value), so you can try out their products too!

The Healthy Habits Pack contains Friendly Face Wash, Happy Face and Body Lotion, Sunny Days SPF 30+ Sunscreen, Bubbly Body Bar, Spiffy Spearmint Lip Balm, Mini Hero Stick, and a bonus CD with original TruKid music.

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED***

Congratulations to Paula H.!

To enter, visit the TruKid website and tell me which product that’s NOT in the Healthy Habits Pack you’d like to try.

You’ll get one extra entry each if you 1) Subscribe to my feed; 2) Blog about this giveaway and link back to BOTH Sage and Savvy and TruKid (be sure to leave a comment for each "entry").

The deadline for entries is August 20, 2008, 11:59pm HST.

A winner from all eligible entries will be chosen by random.org and notified via email on August 21, 2008 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment) and will have 3 days to accept.

Valid for US addresses only.

Good luck!

Thank you to TruKid for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Discount, Free Shipping: Bubble and Bee Organic

A couple items that I have yet to find safer alternatives for are deodorant and insect repellent. Luckily, I found Bubble and Bee Organic while searching online. They carry not only organic deodorants and insect repellent, but other organic products as well, such as soaps, lip balms, and lotions.

Bubble and Bee Organic was created by Stephanie Greenwood, who began making her own organic bath and body products after discovering many of the products she used contained ingredients such as parabens and phthalates, which were possibly causing her health problems. After numerous attempts in finding the right formula for her products with the help of a chemist friend, and enlisting the help of friend and business partner Steve Thomas, Bubble and Bee Organic was born!

Their website states they:

-Use Certified Organic ingredients whenever possible.
-Never use synthetic fragrances.
-Never use a synthetic ingredient if there's even a small question about it!
-Give our customers choices.
-Always stand behind our products

Lucky for me, as well as for all you Sage and Savvy readers, Bubble and Bee Organic is offering the following discounts:

Free shipping for purchases over $50 (no code required); expires on September 1st.

10% discount with code savvy1 (does not apply to sale items); expires September 30th.

Best of all, you CAN COMBINE both offers—but note the differing expiration dates, so to take advantage of BOTH offers at the same time, be sure to make your purchase no later than Sept. 1.

I know I’ll be taking advantage of the discount and free shipping to buy--you guessed it--the deodorant and insect repellent…and probably the lotions, and the soaps, and …

Monday, August 11, 2008

Review: Note to Self: On Keeping a Journal and Other Dangerous Pursuits by Samara O’Shea

I couldn’t wait to review Note to Self: On Keeping a Journal and Other Dangerous Pursuits by Samara O’Shea not only because I dabbled in journaling before, but because it’s been a very, very long time since I’ve read a book other than one that was about pregnancy or child care.
When I think of a journal, I think of a book in which you write down daily events or your daily thoughts, and when you read through it weeks or years later, you find the entries insightful and enlightening.

According to O’Shea, journaling can involve so much more…or so much less. She explains that there is no right or wrong way to journal. You don’t have to write an entry every day, nor do you have to detail your daily life. You can record dreams, express your emotions, chronicle your travels, or create a to-do list. One very important thing she stresses when journaling, however, is “Don’t lie.”

O’Shea shares a variety of journal entries, among them include those on romance and heartbreak, career failures and successes, and the simple pleasures she finds in her daily life. Her entries are sometimes tense, at times spiritual, and yet at others amusing.

Throughout the book O’Shea also shares quotes, stories, and journal entries of notable individuals which help reinforce her ideas on both journaling and on life in general.

Although she has been journaling for years and has “found the woman” she wants to be, she acknowledges that “I still have plenty of work to do…There’s time to attempt these improvements, and I look forward to the introspective road ahead as well as the many mistakes I’ll make along the way. I plan to observe, enjoy, criticize, taste, touch, and smell the world around me and document it all in notes to myself.”

Note to Self was an enjoyable read, with many insightful quotes and passages throughout from both O’Shea and the notables she featured. Reading this book may inspire you enough to pick up that pen and start writing down your to-do list, your dreams, or your significant life events. No matter how you do it, or how often, in the end you will reap the same reward—a deeper understanding of your “self.”

Thank you to HarperCollins Publishers for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Sunday, August 10, 2008

Discount, Free Shipping: Curly Monkey

Great news for all Sage and Savvy readers--another organic clothing company has offered special discounts just for you!

Curly Monkey’s clothing are made of 100% certified organic cotton. Their website states Curly Monkey uses “only eco-friendly water based textile inks, free of metals and other chemicals. Our non toxic inks, unlike plastisols, also give a unique soft feel that everybody loves.”

Visit Curly Monkey and take advantage of these special offers:

Free Shipping up to 2 articles with code SHIP08 (cannot be combined with other discounts).

10% off wholesale orders (minimum 24 pieces; cannot be combined with other discounts) with code WHO08.

Both offers expire on September 4, 2008, so don’t delay…check out Curly Monkey today!

Saturday, August 9, 2008

Review: Tiny Prints

When I was pregnant with DS, I researched photo birth announcements online and found many sites that offered them. However, one site in particular, Tiny Prints, really got my attention because their designs struck me as very modern and I didn’t see similar designs on other sites. I was immediately hooked.

So, I bookmarked Tiny Prints, and I waited for DS to be born to make my order with them.

Unfortunately, I just never got around to ordering my photo announcements for DS from Tiny Prints. Why? Well, let's just say a newborn left me with no time to sleep, eat, shower, and definitely no time to use the computer! So I just procrastinated and procrastinated, and simply never got around to ordering them. In hindsight, I don't know why I just didn't ask DH to order them (I guess the lack of sleep prevented me from thinking clearly). It's too bad because I was really looking forward to getting my announcements from Tiny Prints.

Naturally, when I had the opportunity to review samples from Tiny Prints, you can bet I was excited! When I received the samples, I couldn’t help but smile! Their designs look great online, but when you actually get to see them in person, you can tell how much thought goes into each design, and how much care Tiny Prints puts into each card, assuring you have the highest quality product to share with your friends and family.

Tiny Prints offers a wide variety of items, including photo birth announcements, holiday cards, invitations, and thank you cards. I received several samples of their birthday invitations and photo announcements--the birthday invitations are fun and whimsical; the photo birth announcements, well, they just tug at your heart!

If you need cards, whether it’s to announce the birth of your child, for a birthday, or to send some holiday greetings, I encourage you to check out their website.

The only problem? They have so many beautiful designs that you’re going to have a difficult time narrowing down your choices…which is my current problem. But at least I have a few more months to make a decision before baby #2 arrives. And you can be sure I won’t procrastinate this time!

Tiny Prints…creating unique and modern cards, big smiles, and lasting impressions.

Thank you to Tiny Prints for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Thursday, August 7, 2008

"I'm a Whale Shark"

When I was pregnant with DS, a friend emailed me "You look so good! When I was pregnant, I was a whale." I emailed her back "Well, if you were a whale, I'm a whale shark!"

So here I am, more than half-way through my pregnancy, and I'm a whale shark again. I just went to my doctor appointment and I gained 6 1/2 pounds in one month. 6 1/2 pounds! The only reason why I didn't get a good scolding from him was because last month I gained only 2 pounds, and overall I gained 13 pounds, which he said is not too bad. But he did say I need to be careful and I can't keep gaining a lot of weight.

I can't remember how much I gained during my first pregnancy. I think it was between 27-29 pounds. Of course, I was not skinny to begin with (let's just say the year before I became pregnant one of my female co-workers actually asked me "are you expecting?" The NERVE! Ha ha), so of course I would look like a whale shark at the end of 9 months.

Well, I just have to be more careful about what I eat.

And I'll start as soon as I finish up the Two-Bite Brownies that I bought at Sam's Club (sooooooooo much better than the Brookies). YUM =)

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Freebie: Out & About with Allergies

Thanks to Mom Central, I found out about this great freebie for nasal allergy sufferers: Out & About with Allergies: An Insider’s Guide to Enjoying the City. Although I am not a nasal allergy sufferer myself, I know many people who are who could benefit from this guide, brought to us by Zagat Survey and GlaxoSmithKline.

Zagat is a trusted name by many when it comes to reviews of restaurants, nightlife, hotels, and attractions. Fortunately, for the forty million nasal allergy sufferers out there, Zagat Survey has teamed up with GlaxoSmithKline, maker of the allergy medication Veramyst Nasal Spray, to not only feature restaurants and attractions in twenty popular cities*, but to also feature tips on how to manage your allergy symptoms.

Their website states "Out & About With Allergies: An Insider's Guide to Enjoying the City features dozens of outdoor restaurants, cafés, and nightspots, as well as attractions such as tranquil off-the-beaten-path gardens and walking paths. Like all The Zagat Survey guides, these outdoor destinations are rated by locals, so the reviews are accurate and trustworthy.

The Guide also features tips for keeping your nasal allergies under control, as well as information about a prescription option for the treatment of seasonal and year-round allergy symptoms in adults and children 2 years and older. Sign up now and also receive a coupon for savings on an allergy medication!"

If you or someone you know suffers from allergies, sign up for the free guide today and start enjoying the outdoors!

*Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Cincinnati, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, Orlando/Tampa, Philadelphia, Phoenix/Scottsdale, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle and Washington, DC.

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Giveaway: Built NY Double Thirsty Tote

My very first blog post was about my Gourmet Getaway lunch bag by Built NY. When DS was born, I received a Built NY baby tote that we used all the time to carry his food and drink. I love my lunch bag and DS's tote--I use both constantly.

If you're interested in Built NY's products, I have a black Double Thirsty Tote (valued at $11) to giveaway to one lucky reader! The Tote is described on Built NY's website as follows:

STRETCHES TO FIT TWO BABY BOTTLES, JUICE BOXES, SIPPY CUPS, ETC.
HANDLE SNAPS TO STROLLERS, HANDBAGS, ETC.
INSULATES AND PROTECTS DRINKS
MACHINE WASHABLE & STAIN RESISTANT

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED***

Congratulations to Mannequin!

Here's how to enter the giveaway:

Some of you may know I'm trying to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. I'm still rather "light green," but I would love for you to leave me a comment on what is your favorite eco-friendly product.
You’ll get one extra entry each if you 1) Subscribe to my feed; 2) Blog about this giveaway and link back to Sage and Savvy; be sure to leave a comment for each "entry"
The deadline for entries is August 12, 2008, 11:59pm HST.
The winner will be notified via email on August 13, 2008 (make sure your contact information is in your profile or comment) and will have 3 days to accept.
A winner from all eligible entries will be chosen by random.org.
Valid for US addresses only.

Good Luck!

Sunday, August 3, 2008

Gift Giving

I know the holidays are still several months away, but they’ll be here before you know it. This evening I mentioned to DH that I think he should consider just getting gifts for his friends’ children only and not for his friends.

He has to think about it.

I suggested that not only because prices for everything are soaring these days and everyone is tightening their budgets, but because that’s just the way I’ve known things to be when children are in the picture. Even when I was little, my parents’ friends would give gifts only to us and not to my parents.

It was all about the children.

My friends and I do a Secret Santa gift exchange so we just need to buy one gift. We do, however, buy gifts for all the children. There are lots and lots of children, and more and more will probably be born each year, so you can imagine how expensive things could be if you were to buy gifts for the children AND the parent(s). Of course, if I find a really nice gift for one of my closest friends, that wouldn’t stop me from giving it to her during the holidays. But the norm for us is Secret Santa for the adults, gifts for all the children.

Do you give holiday gifts (if at all) to your friends and their children, or just the adults, or just the children?

Or does it depend?

I’m just curious…

Saturday, August 2, 2008

Parmesan cheese...

…or a little girl’s sneeze.

If you had to choose one, which would you rather have on your pasta?

I’m assuming you’d pick the cheese.

Two days ago DH, DS and I went to meet a friend and her little baby for lunch at a popular Italian restaurant. We were seated in a booth—DH & I on one side. A large family, with at least 6 kids, ended up in the booth behind us (they had to add some tables and chairs to the booth to seat the entire family).

There was a little girl, she looked to be about 3 years old, who was seated directly behind us. She kept leaning over onto our side of our booth. Not looking, but leaning--her face and arms were in our booth! Well, I know kids do these kinds of things, so in order for her not to distract me, I just tried leaning in as close as possible to our table so I wouldn’t be able to see her.

That worked, until…AH-CHOO!!! Yup, the little girl was leaning over again when she let out a big old sneeze, and all her little “sneezy” germs went all over me and DH and on everything else nearby.

I admit that I can be a bit of a germaphobe, so although I tried to laugh it off, what I really wanted to do was go into the restroom and wash my hair, or get some hand sanitizer and rub it through my hair.

If my son were to stand up and lean over into someone else’s booth, I’d try to stop him right away. I wouldn't want him to disturb someone else's meal. However, for one reason or another, the parents (I’m assuming the adult male and female in her party were her parents) did not stop this little girl from continuing to lean over into our booth. Only after she sneezed all over us did they move her to the other side of their booth.

Well, I just hope I don't get sick. And if I go back to that restaurant or any other restaurant with booths low enough for little kids to lean over, I’ll make sure to ask for a table instead.

Friday, August 1, 2008

Discount: Inside Out Kidz

According to Merriam-Webster, the definition of nourish is to “promote the growth of.” We all want to nourish our children as best as we can—nourish their bodies, their minds, their souls. When I discovered Inside Out Kidz, I was intrigued by their Nourish line of organic clothing for infants and toddlers, which were designed with simple, yet effective images and messages.

Inside Out Kidz was “created in an effort to help promote a healthy child and a healthy environment. Our designs are simple, with important messages to remind you that it is never to early to help your children develop a loving Heart, strong Spirit, active Imagination, and a commitment to protecting the Earth…Our shirts are made in the USA and screen printed locally in Portland using water based dyes. Our packaging is also recycled and recyclable.”

Thank you to Inside Out Kidz for offering all Sage and Savvy readers a discount of 20% off purchases through December 11, 2008 (cannot be combined with other discounts). Just use code IOKPROMO (all caps) at checkout. Visit their website and “nourish” your child’s eco-friendly wardrobe with some organic clothing that not only looks cute, but spreads a positive message in helping to promote a healthy child and environment.

Archive

Sunday, August 31, 2008

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Thursday, August 28, 2008

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Monday, August 25, 2008

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Thursday, August 21, 2008

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Monday, August 18, 2008

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Saturday, August 16, 2008

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Monday, August 11, 2008

Sunday, August 10, 2008

Saturday, August 9, 2008

Thursday, August 7, 2008

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Sunday, August 3, 2008

Saturday, August 2, 2008

Friday, August 1, 2008