Sage and Savvy-Product Reviews, Giveaways, and More!: June 2009

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Invitation Jane

When Little Music Man starts school in the fall, I know I’ll be worried about whether paperwork and/or money gets to his teacher, but I think my worries may disappear thanks to a neat stationery product from Invitation Jane!

We are an online boutique offering stylish and chic invitations, stationery and personalized gifts from the best designers in the business. A love for "boutique-y" type products is our passion! We love things that are different and make people say WOW! We love things that are full of bold colors and cool patterns. We adore anything personalized. Things that are new and fresh, trendy and fun, sophisticated and classy. Things that inspire and add a little sparkle to your day. Things that are different enough that your family friends just HAVE TO KNOW where you got them!

I was fortunate to receive the very cute and very practical Lunch Money Envelopes (ARV $15/25 pack). You add a name (you can even add multiple names, with a checkbox next to each), and basically just “personalize it any way you wish,” by specifying hair color, skin color, etc.

Since I’m not creative or artistic, I do wish the site provided you with options you could select from to personalize the envelopes to make it more closely resemble your little one (e.g. providing options for clothing, hair, skin tone, etc.) instead of you simply adding the information on your own. Others may have no problem providing instructions to personalize, but perhaps having options to select from may make it easier for some (like me).

The Lunch Money Envelopes are really useful for any child. Kids may see money or a note in their backpack and may not remember what it’s for, or if money was attached to a field trip form, the items could have been accidentally unattached in their backpacks. And even if you do use an envelope to enclose money or paperwork to give to the teacher, it’s likely that the teacher will end up throwing the envelope away after the contents are taken out. However, with the Lunch Money Envelopes, I plan on checking a different item on each envelope and whenever one is used I’ll ask the teacher to return it to Little Music Man so I can keep reusing these envelopes. The envelopes are nice and sturdy so I know I can get a lot of use out of them!

When Little Music Man sees the Lunch Money Envelope in his backpack, he’ll know it’s something that needs to be given to his teacher. For him, these envelopes would be especially helpful since he’s still going through speech therapy. The teacher may not understand what he’s saying when he gives her the envelope, but the Lunch Money Envelope makes it easy for her to know exactly what the contents are and what they are for.

The Lunch Money Envelopes are such a cute idea and I know they’ll be put to good use when Little Music Man starts school in the fall.

Shop: To purchase Lunch Money Envelopes and other adorable personalized stationery items, visit the Invitation Jane website.

Thank you to Invitation Jane for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway!

Spectacular-Day 18: SafetyTat

A couple of months ago we were at a party for our friend’s son’s first birthday party. To get to the party room, we took an elevator, and because of Little Music Man’s fascination with elevators, throughout the whole party all he wanted to do wash push buttons and ride the elevator. Fortunately, during the party we managed to distract him with good food and entertainment. However, when it was time to go, DH and I went to hug our friends goodbye. When I was saying goodbye to one particular friend, I turned around, and Little Music Man was gone.

It happened so fast—all I did was hug a friend, and when he wasn’t next to me when I turned around, I ran to the one place I thought he would be—the elevator. Fortunately one of our friends was nearby and kept an eye on him.

But imagine if our friend wasn’t there.

And if Little Music Man pressed one of the buttons, went in the elevator, and went out on another floor.

It’s because of this situation, and my paranoia that similar situations may happen again in the future, that I was very eager to review Safety Tat’s Temporary ID Tattoos.

The idea for SafetyTat child temporary ID tattoos was born of necessity one weekend at an amusement park. On Labor Day Weekend, Michele and her husband, there with their three small children, felt out-numbered. To stave her panic, she quickly wrote her mobile phone number on each of their arms with a ballpoint pen. As she did this, she thoughtfully explained to each of them the importance of staying close to Mommy and Daddy. She also told them that if they were separated that the number on their arm was a way to reconnect with them.

Throughout the day of fun, Michele had to rewrite the number several times as it smeared or washed off. Several parents in the park, stopped her to ask if that was her number on the kids' arms. Each time, they loved the idea. The day was a success and the idea for SafetyTat temporary id tattoos was born.

We were fortunate to receive two packs of SafetyTat Quick Stick Write-On! SafetyTats (ARV $9.99/6 pack).

Made with our proprietary tattoo material, Tateck(TM), this ultra-durable skin safe applique "tattoo" sticker is waterproof and will last an extra long time -- up to two weeks -- until you are ready to remove it. The Quick Stick Write-On! requires no water to apply. Simply peel and stick -- "Quick Stick!" Perfect for traveling with children at theme parks, school field trips, sporting events, scout trips and extracurricular events. These skin applique tattoos are shipped BLANK, so you can write your information on them with the included waterproof tattoo marking pen.

We decided to try out the SafetyTat temporary ID tattoos during a trip to the farmers market. It was quick and easy to apply to Little Music Man’s arm, and although he kept touching it, it remained in place. What really impressed me was how immediately after I wrote my number on the tattoo with the tattoo marking pen, Little Music Man touched the tattoo again, but the number did not smear at all! I thought for sure the number would be smudged, but it was still clear and legible.

Fortunately Little Music Man did not wander off while at the farmers market, and even after we returned home we decided to keep the temporary tattoo on him. It stayed put throughout the entire day (even through a lot of sweat) and I’m sure it would’ve lasted many more days until we took it off!

Unlike the Quick Stick Write-On temporary ID tattoos, Original SafetyTats are applied like typical temporary tattoos (use a wet sponge to help adhere to skin; remove with baby oil or rubbing alcohol).

SafteyTat offers a variety of designs to choose from, and you can also get them with special messages which indicate allergies, special needs, and more.

Of course, SafetyTat temporary ID tattoos will never replace responsibility and common sense whenever you take your child out, but it’s a great product that could really help in situations you hope to never find yourself in.

Just in case...

Shop: To purchase SafetyTat temporary ID tattoos, visit the SafetyTat website, or click here to find a retailer near you.

Win: Three lucky winners will each receive a Quick Stick Write-On! Multi-Design 6-pack (ARV $9.99). Description: Includes 6 skin safe tattoo appliques (2 surf board, 2 frog, 2 mouse), 6 skin prep wipes, and one tattoo marking pen.

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED***

Congratulations to myfourkids, artmarcia, lilyk!

To enter, visit the SafetyTat website and comment on your favorite design (excluding anything mentioned in this post).
You’ll get one extra entry each if you do any of the following (be sure to leave a comment for each “entry”):
1)Blog about this giveaway and link back to Sage and Savvy and SafetyTat
2)Subscribe to my feed
3)Add my button to your sidebar
4)Follow me on Twitter (leave your Twitter name in your comment)
5)Add my Spectacular banner to your sidebar
6)Register for the SafetyTat newsletter
You’ll get three extra entries if you leave a comment on my first blogiversary post, noting which is your favorite product featured on Sage and Savvy within the past year (through 6/12/09) and why. Leave a comment for each extra entry in this giveaway post, noting SSS1 in your first extra entry, SSS2 in your second extra entry, SSS3 in your third extra entry.
The deadline for entries is July 7, 2009, 11:59pm HST.
If you submitted an eligible entry and it is chosen by random.org as the winner, you will be notified via email on July 8, 2009 (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 Safety Tat for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Monday, June 29, 2009

Spectacular-Day 17: Bra Barrette

The nursing bras I'm currently wearing were bought solely for nursing. I didn’t care too much about comfort, style, or a perfect fit when I bought them—as long as they fit okay and allowed me to nurse, great. But most of them have straps that continuously slide down my shoulders. I would always find myself readjusting the straps, but not anymore, thanks to the Bra Barrette.

Do your straps like to play peek-a-boo? Bra Barrettes are a flexible and durable plastic that easily slips onto your straps to keep them in place under clothes all day, comfortably. Is the elastic in your bra strap more like a bungee cord? A Bra Barrette will extend the life of our hardworking bras. Often the elastic is the first thing to go. Save some money - use a Bra Barrette to keep your straps in place. Does your exercise routine include: stop, reach, tug. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat? As women we get mad at men when they “adjust” in public, yet we do the same thing!! Get a Bra Barrette and Get Bra Confident!

It’s TIME! You deserve a Bra Strap Holder with Function and Fashion!The Bra Barrette is not only functional, but with the added charms and crystals it’s fashionable too. Each Bra Barrette is tinted plastic so the color will never fade. Each charm is attached by a clasp so you can interchange your charms to match your outfit! For our Crystal BBs we use Genuine Swarovski Crystal.

The Bra Barrettes come in three different styles: Plain, Charmed, or Crystal. I was fortunate to receive a Plain Clear Bra Barrette (ARV $3.99), and it was very easy to put on. Literally, in just a matter of seconds, you’ll have the Bra Barrette attached to your straps, and it easily adjusts if necessary.

At first I thought the plastic wouldn’t feel too good against my back, but it was surprisingly comfortable, and I actually forgot it was on! I had it on all day, it made my bra fit better, and best of all—no more playing around with straps!

If you want to add some “back bling,” you can attach one of the Charmed or Crystal Bra Barrettes to your tank tops or spaghetti strap dresses. The Bra Barrette is offered in many different colors, and you can choose from a variety of charms or crystal options, so you can find the perfect Bra Barrette to suit your style.

The Bra Barrette is a functional accessory offered in many fashionable options that is now a necessity in my wardrobe!

Shop: To purchase Plain, Charmed, or Crystal Bra Barrettes, visit the Bra Barrette website.

Win: One lucky winner will receive a Dolphin Charmed Copper Bra Barrette (ARV $9.99)!

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED***
Congratulations to Mandy!

To enter, visit the Bra Barrette website and comment on your favorite Bra Barrette (excluding anything mentioned in this post; please be specific).
You’ll get one extra entry each if you do any of the following (be sure to leave a comment for each “entry”):
1)Blog about this giveaway and link back to Sage and Savvy and Bra Barrette
2)Subscribe to my feed
3)Add my button to your sidebar
4)Follow me on Twitter (leave your Twitter name in your comment)
5)Add my Spectacular banner to your sidebar
You’ll get three extra entries if you leave a comment on my first blogiversary post, noting which is your favorite product featured on Sage and Savvy within the past year (through 6/12/09) and why. Leave a comment for each extra entry in this giveaway post, noting SSS1 in your first extra entry, SSS2 in your second extra entry, SSS3 in your third extra entry.
The deadline for entries is July 6, 2009, 11:59pm HST.
If you submitted an eligible entry and it is chosen by random.org as the winner, you will be notified via email on July 7, 2009 (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 Bra Barrette for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Sunday, June 28, 2009

Raising the Bar: No Child's Left Behind

I recently posted how I got a chance to watch a few episodes of the really intriguing show Raising the Bar. On Monday, June 29, an episode will be airing that deals with the ever-increasing popularity of social networking sites and personal web pages on which we share photos, many of which are of our children.

Episode Description: “No Child’s Left Behind” Premieres Monday, June 29
When an innocent picture of a little boy in a bathtub winds up on a child pornographer’s Web site, Jerry has his hands full defending the father against Balco’s aggressive prosecution. During divorce negotiations, Bobbi’s soon-to-be ex-husband uses a loophole in the law that might result in Bobbi losing her apartment. The situation leads to her to consider finding a higher-paying job.

I got a sneak peek of this episode thanks to TNT, and all I can say is that if you have a blog, or you're on Facebook, Twitter, or any other social networking site, this episode is a must-see.

You may already have an opinion about such an incident, but will it change after hearing the arguments of the prosecution or the defense?

It was a very, very interesting episode, and you'll just have to see for yourself...

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

Spectacular-Day 16: Mitchel Musso: Self-Titled Debut

I’ve mentioned previously how I’ve watched a couple of episodes of Hannah Montana before, however, I had no clue that Mitchel Musso, who plays Oliver Oken, was also a talented singer until I received his Self-Titled Debut Album, Mitchel Musso, thanks to Walt Disney Records (ARV $13.99).

Mitchel Musso's self-titled debut album has a distinctive pop/rock sound that instantly connects with his generation. The album features 3 songs co-written by Musso, plus a collaboration with his brother Mason from Metro Station. The CD unlocks an exclusive stream of "Let's Make This Last 4 Ever" performed on Hannah Montana and includes a fold-out poster.

The Mitchel Musso CD include songs on subjects that teens can easily relate to, such as love, heartbreak, fitting in, and believing in yourself.

Although Mitchel Musso offers pop and rock tracks geared towards a younger audience, that didn’t mean I didn’t enjoy any of the songs. My favorite track is Shout It (featuring Mason Musso). It has an addicting chorus that I find myself singing over and over again in my head. I also like The In Crowd, a song that kids will find very relatable.

DH had a favorite track too—Get Out!

Mitchel Musso’s debut album is full of energizing and meaningful pop and rock songs, and will definitely delight young fans (and maybe their parents too)!

Shop: You can purchase Mitchel Musso’s Self-Titled Debut Album on the Disney Store website, or at various other retailers online and nationwide.

Win: Two lucky winners will each get a copy of Mitchel Musso’s Self-Titled Debut CD!

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED***
Congratulations to blueviolet, Tiffany!

To enter, visit Mitchel Musso’s page on the Disney Music website, listen to the track samples and comment on your favorite track (excluding any track mentioned in this post).
You’ll get one extra entry each if you do any of the following (be sure to leave a comment for each “entry”):
1)Blog about this giveaway and link back to Sage and Savvy and Mitchel Musso
2)Subscribe to my feed
3)Add my button to your sidebar
4)Follow me on Twitter (leave your Twitter name in your comment)
5)Add my Spectacular banner to your sidebar
You’ll get three extra entries if you leave a comment on my first blogiversary post, noting which is your favorite product featured on Sage and Savvy within the past year (through 6/12/09) and why. Leave a comment for each extra entry in this giveaway post, noting SSS1 in your first extra entry, SSS2 in your second extra entry, SSS3 in your third extra entry.
The deadline for entries is July 5, 2009, 11:59pm HST.
If you submitted an eligible entry and it is chosen by random.org as the winner, you will be notified via email on July 6, 2009 (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 Walt Disney Records for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Saturday, June 27, 2009

Nico & Zoe

Little Music Man loves to scribble with “ayons” (crayons). However, every single crayon he owns has broken into tiny pieces, making it hard for him to draw and color, and it’s also a lot more trouble to clean up. Thanks to Nico and Zoe, he now has some Soy Crayon Rocks that we both love!

Stacy and Pamela are the moms and owners of Nico & Zoe. Our inspiration is our children. As parents, we are always on the lookout for quality, locally made, funky toys, while still getting a good value for your money.

I was fortunate to receive 16 Soy Crayon Rocks (ARV $8.00) from Nico & Zoe in a variety of colors. They are nicely sized and a lot easier for Little Music Man to scribble with. Of course I love the fact that they are “are made from renewable soybeans grown in the USA and are colored with natural mineral powders,” and I also love how Little Music Man can’t easily break them into numerous little pieces.

The crayon rocks are recommended for kids ages 3 and over who no longer put toys in their mouths. However, I would still keep an eye on your child, especially if he or she is on the younger side. I watch Little Music Man closely whenever he uses the crayon rocks just in case he decides to pop one in his mouth, and also because Smiley Boy is always nearby, wanting to grab one of the crayon rocks to put in his own mouth.

The Soy Crayon Rocks are eco-friendly, innovative, and fun—it’s a unique gift that any kid would enjoy!

Shop: You can purchase Soy Crayon Rocks, as well as many other toys, games, and gifts, on the Nico & Zoe website.

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

Spectacular-Day 15: Bellybar

During both my pregnancies, I know I didn’t eat as well as I should have. I snacked A LOT, and most of the times I snacked on unhealthy stuff. It’s too bad I didn’t know about NutraBella's Bellybar products back then. They would’ve satisfied my numerous snack-attacks while also providing essential nutrients for me and my baby!

NutraBella was founded to improve the nutritional wellbeing of women by delivering delicious, nutrient-enriched products that are uniquely formulated and conveniently portable. Created by women for women, NutraBella's all-natural food products promote good nutrition – the foundation for a healthy and active lifestyle. We at NutraBella strive to be the trusted source of tasty, convenient and nutrient rich foods to fuel you toward your personal best. NutraBella's founders created Bellybar because they heard a resounding common desire among pregnant and nursing friends for a better way to get the critical nutrients needed before, during and after pregnancy, and for a delicious snack they can eat on the go. Bellybar provides an easy, food-based source for necessary supplemental nutrients in an all-natural snack designed to match the pace of women's "real world" lives.

I was fortunate to receive the following Bellybar products: Citrus on Board Bellybar Chews (ARV $11.99), Due for Chocolate Bellybar Shakes (ARV $9.99/4 pack) and the following Bellybars: Mellow Oat, Baby Needs Chocolate, Berry Nutty Cravings, Burstin’ Chocolate (ARV $2.75/bar).

All women can benefit from and enjoy Bellybar’s products—you don’t have to be pregnant. I’m not pregnant, in case anyone is wondering, but since I’m such a “snackivore,” I really wanted to try Bellybar’s products since they contain DHA, calcium, and other nutrients that are essential for me and my baby, who I'm currently nursing.

I absolutely love the Due for Chocolate Bellybar Shakes! It was so chocolatey, delicious, and refreshing.

The Citrus on Board Bellybar Chews were really good too. Whenever I have a craving for sweets, I often times just pop a Chew in my mouth. The Chews would’ve been perfect when I was pregnant with Smiley Boy since I had major fruit-flavor cravings!

Of all the Bellybars, surprisingly, my favorite was Mellow Oat! You’d think this c

hocoholic would favor Baby Needs Chocolate or Burstin’ Chocolate, but I actually thought Baby Needs Chocolate was a little too sweet for me, and Burstin’ Chocolate was good (I liked that hint of orange), but the taste of all of the oats in Mellow Oat really won me over. It sort of reminded me of eating an oatmeal cookie! Berry Nutty Cravings was also good, but Mellow Oat was my hands-down favorite.

Bellybar products are great treats for everyone—whether you’re a mom-to-be, a nursing mom, a mom who wants access to easy, healthy snacks, or simply a woman (or man) who enjoys delicious, nutritious foods!

Shop: You can purchase Bellybar products on the Bellybar website, or click here to find a retailer near you.

Win: Three lucky winners will each receive a Bellybar Prize Pack consisting of: 2 Bellybars of each flavor (Baby Needs Chocolate, Berry Nutty Cravings, Mellow Oat and Burstin’ Chocolate; 1 pouch of each Bellybar Chews flavor (Chocolate Cuddles and Citrus on Board), and 2 Due for Chocolate Bellybar Shakes (ARV $50.00).

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED***

Congratulations to kathy pease, Mandy, ethnically ambiguous!

To enter, visit Bellybar and comment on what fact about Bellybar interests you or you appreciate the most, as mentioned in the FAQs
You’ll get one extra entry each if you do any of the following (be sure to leave a comment for each “entry”):
1)Blog about this giveaway and link back to Sage and Savvy and Bellybar
2)Subscribe to my feed
3)Add my button to your sidebar
4)Follow me on Twitter (leave your Twitter name in your comment)
5)Add my Spectacular banner to your sidebar
6)Follow Bellybar on Twitter
7)Become a fan of Bellybar on Facebook
You’ll get three extra entries if you leave a comment on my first blogiversary post, noting which is your favorite product featured on Sage and Savvy within the past year (through 6/12/09) and why. Leave a comment for each extra entry in this giveaway post, noting SSS1 in your first extra entry, SSS2 in your second extra entry, SSS3 in your third extra entry.
The deadline for entries is July 4, 2009, 11:59pm HST.
If you submitted an eligible entry and it is chosen by random.org as the winner, you will be notified via email on July 5, 2009 (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 NutraBella for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Friday, June 26, 2009

Spectacular-Day 14: Kernel Season's

DH and I love to eat popcorn. We usually eat it “hurricane” style, a popcorn snack that is popular in Hawaii, which consists of popcorn, butter, kaki mochi (rice crackers), and furikake (Japanese rice seasoning). However, one day I was at Wal-Mart and saw Kernel Season’s White Cheddar Popcorn Seasoning and decided to give it a try. The seasoning gave the popcorn such a nice, savory flavor, which I really enjoyed. Therefore you can imagine how eager I was to review more Kernel Season’s Popcorn Seasoning flavors!

Kernel Season's began in my college dorm room at the University of Michigan. I made popcorn every night and created my own personal spice blends to toss into it. Friends and fellow students loved it. People came knocking on the door asking for the special seasonings. I contacted a team of flavor experts with over 50 years of experience to help perfect the seasonings. We tweaked the flavors for over two years until they were just right…Brian Taylor, Founder

I was fortunate to receive a whole bunch of Kernel Season’s goodies: Microwave Popcorn (ARV $1.50), Popcorn Pouch (ARV $3.99), Popcorn Spritzer (ARV $3.99), and the following seasonings (ARV $3.99 each): White Cheddar, Butter, Nacho Cheddar, Parmesan & Garlic, Ranch, and Kettle Corn.

As soon as I received my box of Kernel Season’s goodies I immediately threw a bag of Kernel Season’s Microwave Popcorn into the microwave, and divided the popcorn into several cups so I could sample all of the seasonings.

I was in popcorn heaven!

My favorite seasoning is Parmesan & Garlic, and I actually use this seasoning on other snacks too, such as pretzels and crackers.

I still enjoy the White Cheddar, and I also really liked Nacho Cheddar and Ranch. The Butter flavor was good, but I prefer more than just butter flavor on my popcorn. My least favorite was Kettle Corn, simply because I don’t like sweet popcorn flavors.

The Popcorn Spritzer adds a nice, buttery flavor without the fat and calories. Just spray it on popcorn (works on both microwave and air-popped), or even crackers and pretzels, and eat it as is, or sprinkle on one of Kernel Season’s Popcorn Seasonings.

What’s great about the seasonings is that you can incorporate them in meals too! Add them to pasta, veggies, potatoes, or even to sour cream for a quick and easy dip. Check out Kernel Season's website for more recipes.

Popcorn is an inexpensive, healthy, and versatile snack. You can eat it plain, but why would you want to? Dress it up with Kernel Season’s Popcorn Seasonings. It doesn’t matter whether you prefer sweet or savory—Kernel Season’s has a flavor to suit anyone’s taste.

And if you’re like me, you’ll never eat plain popcorn again.

Shop: You can purchase Kernel Seasons products on the Kernel Seasons website, or click here to find a retailer near you.

Win: One lucky winner will receive a Kernel Seasons prize package featuring the following: A Popcorn Pouch, Three Bags of Microwave Popcorn, Popcorn Spritzer, and Six different seasoning flavors (random flavors will be sent), total ARV $36.00.

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED***
Congratulations to VickeC!

To enter, visit Kernel Season’s and comment on which seasoning is your favorite or you’d like to try (excluding any seasoning mentioned in this post).
You’ll get one extra entry each if you do any of the following (be sure to leave a comment for each “entry”):
1)Blog about this giveaway and link back to Sage and Savvy and Kernel Season’s
2)Subscribe to my feed
3)Add my button to your sidebar
4)Follow me on Twitter (leave your Twitter name in your comment)
5)Add my Spectacular banner to your sidebar
You’ll get three extra entries if you leave a comment on my first blogiversary post, noting which is your favorite product featured on Sage and Savvy within the past year (through 6/12/09) and why. Leave a comment for each extra entry in this giveaway post, noting SSS1 in your first extra entry, SSS2 in your second extra entry, SSS3 in your third extra entry.
The deadline for entries is July 3, 2009, 11:59pm HST.
If you submitted an eligible entry and it is chosen by random.org as the winner, you will be notified via email on July 4, 2009 (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 Kernel Season’s for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Baby Smarts by Jackie Silberg

Both my boys have lots and lots of toys and educational DVDs, all of which I think are great and help to foster learning, imagination, and other skills. However, I really think one of the best ways for a baby to learn is through interaction with other babies and adults and through "every day" experiences, and the book Baby Smarts: Games for Playing and Learning by Jackie Silberg (ARV $12.95, Gryphon House) reinforces that notion and provides many great ideas to help develop your baby’s motor, cognitive, and self-help skills.

Did you know?
* A baby’s brain is 250% more active than that of an adult.
* The networking of the brain's synapses is nearly complete after the first 3 years of life.
* Giving your baby stimulating experiences encourages brain development that will prepare your baby for successful learning in the future.

Filled with developmental games based on the latest brain research, Baby Smarts helps you build your baby’s brain power, one activity at a time! Baby Smarts is divided into four chapters, each representing a three-month period. Each chapter begins with a chart that helps teachers and parents anticipate the typical developmental milestones for that age. The corresponding games and activities develop and reinforce the skills babies need to reach those milestones. Each activity in Baby Smarts uses common materials—there’s no need for expensive toys or props. Every activity in Baby Smarts builds the foundation for future learning!

Even though you may already play some of the games that are mentioned in Baby Smarts with your baby, I’m sure you’ll find some new and fun ideas, just as I have. Some games that I’ve already been playing with Smiley Boy include Obstacle Course (making an obstacle course out of pillows to strengthen Smiley Boy’s motor skills), Show Me (pointing to different body parts), and Bye, Bye, Light (saying “bye” to the light whenever I turn it off).

Some of the new games I’ve discovered in Baby Smarts for babies 6-9 months old include Blow, Blow, Blow (showing your baby how to blow), Counting and Popping (clapping and saying “pop” to develop baby’s anticipation of the word “pop”), and Something Different (seeing if your baby can recognize a different feature between two similar pictures).

There are many, many activities featured in Baby Smarts. You can play a new one each day or play the same one repeatedly and it’ll always be lots of fun for both you and baby!

Although I won’t stop buying bright and colorful toys and educational DVDs, I totally agree with Silberg about how babies’ learn the most through stimulating experiences--through interaction with other babies and adults, by playing with everyday objects (paper, cups, bowls, etc.), and through "every day" experiences, and Baby Smarts is a great resource that will help to encourage and reinforce your baby’s learning!

Shop: You can purchase Baby Smarts on the Gryphon House website, or click here to find a retailer near you.

Thank you to Gryphon House for the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Rs2guru

If you're looking for special, hand-drawn wedding invitations, check out Rs2guru, Sage and Savvy’s newest sponsor! The following post was submitted by Rs2guru:

Wedding invitations should never be regarded as just a piece of pretty paper. They are an essential reference for guests. As we all know, “Marriages are made in heaven.” Every wedding is special. and a nice wedding invitation makes it even more special.

Rs2guru, an online wedding invitation store, has a huge collection of wedding invitations, and they specialize in hand-drawn wedding invitations at relatively lower costs, providing fast and reliable service. These hand-drawn invitation cards offer a special sense of significance and beauty that an ordinary wedding invitation could never express.

The ordering process is very simple. Rs2guru will send you a hand-drawn invitation proof within 3 working days after your order is placed. Once the digital version is approved, the cards will be printed within the next 1-3 business days and shipped shortly thereafter. In a matter of days you’ll have your beautiful hand-drawn wedding invitations.

For fast and reliable service, and quality, inexpensive, hand-drawn wedding invitations, visit the Rs2guru online store.

Spectacular-Day 13: Late July Organic Snacks

Although Little Music Man loves snacks, he didn’t eat too much of the cookies we received from Late July Organic Snacks…that's because a certain “snackivore” almost ate them all up before he had a chance to try any!

Late July Organic Snacks is a family owned and operated company that cares deeply about family and the integrity of our products. Not only are all our products certified USDA organic and proudly wear the organic seal, but on any given day you can find three generations at work including six-year-old Stephen and two-year-old Benjamin. We all hope you enjoy our snacks!

We were fortunate to receive a box each of Late July Organic Snacks’ Mini Milk Chocolate Sandwich Cookies and Mini White Chocolate Sandwich Cookies (ARV $3.97/box). What's not to love about these cookies? They are organic, a good source of whole grains and calcium, and have endangered animals printed on them.

My favorite of the two was the Mini Milk Chocolate Sandwich Cookies. The chocolate filling was sweet and creamy, and just so yummy!

And yes, I ate almost ALL of the cookies before I realized I should share them with Little Music Man. I couldn’t help it—they were so good!

It's great that these cookies are not full of "bad" stuff—no High Fructose Corn Syrup, Trans Fats, or Artificial Colors.

The cookies are just full of deliciousness!

Shop: You can purchase Late July Organic Snacks on the Shop Late July website , or click here to find a retailer near you. Note: 10% of the profits of the Mini Sandwich Cookies go to the Jane Goodall Institute to help with their efforts in endangered animal awareness.

Win: One lucky winner will get a box each of Late July Organic Snacks’ Mini Milk Chocolate Sandwich Cookies and Mini White Chocolate Sandwich Cookies!

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED***
Congratulations to Christina!

To enter, visit the Late July Organic Snacks Store and comment on which is your favorite product or product you’d like to try (excluding anything mentioned in this post; please be specific).
You’ll get one extra entry each if you do any of the following (be sure to leave a comment for each “entry”):
1)Blog about this giveaway and link back to Sage and Savvy and Late July Organic Snacks
2)Subscribe to my feed
3)Add my button to your sidebar
4)Follow me on Twitter (leave your Twitter name in your comment)
5)Add my Spectacular banner to your sidebar
You’ll get three extra entries if you leave a comment on my first blogiversary post, noting which is your favorite product featured on Sage and Savvy within the past year (through 6/12/09) and why. Leave a comment for each extra entry in this giveaway post, noting SSS1 in your first extra entry, SSS2 in your second extra entry, SSS3 in your third extra entry.
The deadline for entries is July 2, 2009, 11:59pm HST.
If you submitted an eligible entry and it is chosen by random.org as the winner, you will be notified via email on July 3, 2009 (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 Late July Organic Snacks for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Pace

Whenever we go shopping at the warehouse clubs, we always pick up a big bottle of Pace Chunky Salsa, because I simply love eating chips and salsa as a snack. Last year Pace introduced a line of Specialty Salsas (ARV $3.49 each), and I was fortunate to try out a couple:

Mexican Four Cheese Salsa con Queso
Two of these cheeses are pretty hard to find—but that didn't stop us. Asadero and Queso Blanco are both mild creations originating in Mexico. The unsung heroes of this dip, they let the jalapeño, onion and sweet red peppers make a little noise.

Pico De Gallo
Pico is all about the ingredients. Tomatoes firm enough to survive a good dicing. Fresh jalapeños and just enough heat to scare you. Onions you can practically hear when you bite into them. Cilantro, because it's really not Pico without it. You could make your own, but there's a lot of chopping involved.

I used both of these products to make, what else, nachos!

First I put some of the Mexican Four Cheese Salsa con Queso in a bowl to heat it up, then I poured it onto a pile of tortilla chips. Then I added the Pico De Gallo, sour cream, and green onions.

The Mexican Four Cheese Salsa con Queso had a nice, spicy kick!

The Pico De Gallo was also really good. Nothing beats fresh Pico De Gallo, but Pace’s Pico De Gallo is a quick and delicious alternative. It was very flavorful and not too spicy.

If I had time and the ingredients, I would’ve added some shredded cooked chicken, some refried beans, and some olives, but my quick and easy nachos was more than satisfying. I even made some for DH on another day and he loved it.

On the Pace website, you can find out more about Pace’s products, become a Pace Insider, and even find some great recipes. I think the Pace® Mucho Queso Pizza recipe looks really delicious—using only 6 ingredients, and it takes only 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to bake. Yum!

Whether you’re hungry for something simple or hearty, Pace offers products that you can incorporate into a variety of snacks and meals to satisfy your craving for something flavorful and filling.

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

Imagination Movers: For Those About to Hop (July 7 Release)

Have you ever seen a field filled with parents and their kids – all hopping? That was the scene at the Imagination Movers’ triumphant hometown show at this year’s New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and it’s similar to the scene that plays out in living rooms across the country when viewers tune into the Imagination Movers’ hit Disney Channel series. Now, fans of the Imagination Movers have one more reason to bounce, pogo and hop, when the smart kid-pop quartet releases its newest CD For Those About to Hop nationwide on July 7.

The Movers – Rich Collins, Scott Durbin, Dave Poche, and Scott “Smitty” Smith – formed in 2003 when a group of New Orleans friends started writing songs together and testing them out on their own kids. The band’s dynamic, high-energy shows and wide-ranging pop sensibilities (with a special nod to 1980s alt rock) made them an immediate hit at the local parks and children’s museums. Not even losing homes to Hurricane Katrina (during which Smitty served as a first responder) scuttled their dreams. After signing to Disney, the Movers released their label debut Juice Box Heroes in March 2008, and are now currently working on the second season of their Playhouse Disney (Disney Channel’s learning-based programming block for preschoolers) show. Since its release, Juice Box Heroes has consistently ranked in the Top 10 on iTunes Children’s Music chart. National recognition includes a Parenting Magazine “Parenting Pick,” and Common Sense Media recently recognized the Imagination Movers among the Best TV of 2008, citing the quartet’s “addictive sense of humor and quest for fun.”

These qualities are in full display on For Those About to Hop. With a quick wink at AC/DC in the title, the Movers keep their fans on their feet throughout the generous 22-song set. Show favorite “Jungle Room” is a swinging, horn-drenched musical safari, while tunes like “Now We’re Cooking,” “Paint the Day Away” and “Playing Catch” are equal parts funk, hip-hop and sing-along rock, with infectious beats and typically catchy lyrics that celebrate learning, growing and fun. Fans of the show will recognize set pieces from the Movers’ brainstorming adventures in the Idea Warehouse, but these songs all stand on their own as bright, finely crafted kid pop tunes.

A special release of For Those About to Hop is currently available at Target stores nationwide and includes five bonus tracks. An exclusive iTunes version of the release offers another set of five bonus songs and will be available on July 7. All versions include downloadable lyrics and a coloring sheet, along with an interactive game featuring the TV show’s popular puppet character Warehouse Mouse.

FOR THOSE ABOUT TO HOP track listing:

Mover Music (Jump Up!)
Now We’re Cooking
Jungle Room
Boom Boom Song
Nina’s Song
We Can Work Together
Playing Catch
Buckets and Cans
Mother In You
Rollin’
Gust of Wind
Brainstorming
Boing Cluck Cluck
Paint the Day Away
Sunblock
Gotcha
Fix It Up
Sleeping Bag
Try Again
Get Up
Recipe (Stir It Up)
Imagination Movers Theme Song

Saving Grace

The third season of TNT’s Saving Grace premiered last week, and thanks to TNT, I received a screener DVD containing 3 episodes of this really intriguing and quite unusual drama.

Series Description: SAVING GRACE focuses on Det. Hanadarko (Hunter) as she investigates brutal crimes while trying to balance her relationship with her partner, Ham (Johnson). Grace also must figure out cryptic messages from her last-chance angel, Earl (Rippy).

At the end of the second season, death row inmate Leon Cooley, who shared visions of Earl with Grace, was executed, leaving a hole in Grace’s life. Soon, she began having dreams of a young drug addict named Neely (King), which lead Grace to believe Neely also shares a connection with Earl.

Meanwhile, Ham’s divorce was finalized. Ham hopes he and Grace can finally be together, but Grace might not be on the same page. This season, we will learn more about the personal lives of fellow detectives Bobby Stillwater (Cruz), Butch Ada (Chase) and Captain Kate Perry (Toussaint).

Episode Descriptions:
“We’re Already Here” – Originally Aired Tuesday, June 16, at 10 p.m. (ET/PT)
When Grace tries to reach out to Neely – the young drug addict who shares visions of Earl – Grace winds up in the middle of what could be a plot by an anti-government group linked to the recent death of a police officer. Grace’s clumsy, off-the-books investigation goes especially bad when Neely is injured. Meanwhile, Grace and Ham get caught in a compromising position, and Butch makes a surprise announcement.

“What Would You Do?” – Originally Aired Tuesday, June 23, at 10 p.m. (ET/PT)
The squad investigates a brutal home invasion, the latest in a string of such crimes. There are several inconsistencies between this one and previous incidents. Meanwhile, Matthew (Oscar® winner F. Murray Abraham), one of Earl’s fellow angels, hits a rough patch when it comes to winning souls. He starts honing in on Earl’s territory.

I started off watching the second season finale episode, and I was riveted, but also quite confused, since I had no idea what Saving Grace was really about. I knew the show dealt with solving crimes, but I had no idea about Earl, the angel.

Despite my confusion, the episodes really sucked me in, and I really enjoyed watching Holly Hunter. Her character is smart, funny, and now I can’t help but wonder what’s going to happen between Grace and Ham, what connection she may have with Neely, and ultimately what Earl has in store for her.

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

Spectacular-Day 12: If Your Kid Eats This Book, Everything Will Still Be Okay by Lara Zibners

Whenever either of my boys get a fever, a rash, or they bump their heads, of course I worry, and I often times look online or in books to determine the severity of their illness or injury, and if a call to the doctor or 911 is necessary. Thanks to If Your Kid Eats This Book, Everything Will Still Be Okay: How to Know if Your Child's Injury or Illness Is Really an Emergency, by Lara Zibners MD (ARV $14.99, Hachette Book Group), I now have a helpful resource that has helped to make me a better informed parent when it comes to a variety of possible childhood ailments.

As an Emergency Room pediatrician, Dr. Lara Zibners has seen it all. She's cared for a portion of the 25 million children in the U.S. who are taken to the ER each year-and she knows that more than 50% of these visits may be unnecessary. IF YOUR KID EATS THIS BOOK, EVERYTHING WILL STILL BE OKAY shows parents when they may need to take action, and when they might be able to just go back to bed and call their doctor in the morning. With sections such as "In the Diaper" and "His Noggin and the Nervous System," Dr. Zibners covers every part of the body and offers sound advice (for example, did you know that oil is the best remedy for dissolving superglue between body parts?), all while maintaining a lively and often hilarious tone… This book focuses on the truly important questions, like how to keep her from electrocuting herself in the first place. Not every child has a pediatrician with specialized emergency room experience living in her home. But this book just might be the next best thing.

Zibners covers everything from head trauma to insect bites. She describes various types of injuries and illnesses, and signs and symptoms to watch for in which it would be imperative to call 911, and others where it should be okay to wait until the morning to call your doctor. Whether it’s a broken bone, a bruise, or a breathing issue, Zibners explains in terms easy enough for anyone to understand, offering lots of practical advice and tips.

Since I received this book, I’ve already referred to it many times. My most recent use of the book was to look up symptoms Little Music Man recently had. They were described in the book as being a possible sinus infection, and this was subsequently confirmed by the pediatrician.

Zibners also shares her own experiences with her patients and what to expect if you do have to take a child to the ER. The instances of humor throughout the book provided some much needed comic-relief, because at times I felt the book made me a little more paranoid (since I am, of course, a worry-wart).

If Your Kid Eats This Book, Everything Will Still Be Okay is a helpful book that can help you determine whether or not an injury or incident warrants a call to 911 or a trip to the ER.

However, despite Zibners' advice and expertise, she does acknowledge that the book is not a substitute for specific medical advice. You should still contact your doctor, or even 911, if you ever have any concerns. Trust your gut! It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Shop: To purchase If Your Kid Eats This Book, Everything Will Still Be Okay, click here to find a retailer near you.

Win: Five lucky winners will each receive a copy of If Your Kid Eats This Book, Everything Will Still Be Okay!

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED***
Congratulations to ethnically ambiguous, Effie, ColleenMarie82, Mama Kat, Carrie M!

To enter, view If Your Kid Eats This Book, Everything Will Still Be Okay in the OpenBook reader below, check out the table of contents, and comment on which chapter you think you’ll be referring to the most (please specify chapter title, not just chapter 1, 2, etc.).
You’ll get one extra entry each if you do any of the following (be sure to leave a comment for each “entry”):
1)Blog about this giveaway and link back to Sage and Savvy and If Your Kid Eats This Book, Everything Will Still Be Okay
2)Subscribe to my feed
3)Add my button to your sidebar
4)Follow me on Twitter (leave your Twitter name in your comment)
5)Add my Spectacular banner to your sidebar
You’ll get three extra entries if you leave a comment on my first blogiversary post, noting which is your favorite product featured on Sage and Savvy within the past year (through 6/12/09) and why. Leave a comment for each extra entry in this giveaway post, noting SSS1 in your first extra entry, SSS2 in your second extra entry, SSS3 in your third extra entry.
The deadline for entries is July 1, 2009, 11:59pm HST.
If you submitted an eligible entry and it is chosen by random.org as the winner, you will be notified via email on July 2, 2009 (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 Hachette Book Group for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Spectacular-Day 11: Envirosax

One of the most popular brands of reusable bags, Envirosax, launched their new Candy line a few months ago.

According to the website, “Retro, bold, swirling cascades of color alongside geometric hues in purple and black describe the new Candy range. Adding sophistication and glamour to your everyday shopping, the graphics were inspired by Italian designer Emilio Pucci.”

Don’t you just love the colors and designs? My favorite is Candy Bag 1.

Just as other bags in the entire Graphic Series, the Candy bags roll up to 4” x 1.5”. When unrolled, it measures 19.5” x 16.5”, weighs 1.4 oz, can carry up to 44 pounds, and is waterproof!

Envirosax has many, many great designs and are reasonably priced. You can purchase a whole pouch of bags (all 5 bags in a series) for the price of what some companies charge for one bag, and they even offer cute kid designs!

For reusable bags that are just as fashionable as they are functional, check out Envirosax for the hottest designs!

Shop: Envirosax bags can be purchased at Envirosax.com and other online stores and retailers nationwide.

Win: Envirosax is generously sponsoring a giveaway so 3 lucky winners will win an Envirosax Candy Bag (ARV $8.50), choice of design.

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED***
Congratulations to Mishia, Julie, Courtney!

To enter, Envirosax visit and comment on which Candy bag you’d pick if you won.
You’ll get one extra entry each if you do any of the following (be sure to leave a comment for each “entry”):
1)Blog about this giveaway and link back to Sage and Savvy and Envirosax
2)Subscribe to my feed
3)Add my button to your sidebar
4)Follow me on Twitter (leave your Twitter name in your comment)
5)Add my Spectacular banner to your sidebar
You’ll get three extra entries if you leave a comment on my first blogiversary post, noting which is your favorite product featured on Sage and Savvy within the past year (through 6/12/09) and why. Leave a comment for each extra entry in this giveaway post, noting SSS1 in your first extra entry, SSS2 in your second extra entry, SSS3 in your third extra entry.
The deadline for entries is June 30, 2009, 11:59pm HST.
If you submitted an eligible entry and it is chosen by random.org as the winner, you will be notified via email on July 1, 2009 (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 Envirosax for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Monday, June 22, 2009

Dapper Snappers

Little Music Man owns several pairs of pants and shorts that fit perfectly length-wise, but are just too big around the waist. Now we have the perfect solution to help create a perfect fit around the waist—Dapper Snappers!

According to the website, “It's not very often you find a pair of pants that fits your thinner child around the waist. All too often, the length of the pants is perfect and the waist is just too big which causes Droopy Drawers. Until recently the choices were limited to a cumbersome belt that made diaper changing and potty training nearly impossible or adjustable waistband pants that cost twice as much as regular pants. With as fast as kids grow, who could afford it? Now, with Dapper Snappers, keeping those droopy drawers up is a snap!”

I was fortunate to receive an Original Dapper Snapper in Navy Blue (ARV $8.95), which was the perfect color since Little Music Man often wears blue jeans and denim shorts. The Dapper Snapper is basically a piece of elastic-type material with snaps that you attach to the belt loops in the back of your child’s pants to cinch the waist, preventing it from falling and drooping. The Dapper Snapper is similar to a belt, keeping your little one’s pants up, but it’s actually a lot better than a belt. No fumbling with buckles, pants are easy to pull on and off, and best of all, if your little one is still in diapers or is going through potty training, it won’t hinder diaper changes or potty training!

The Dapper Snapper is a “snap” to use, stays on firmly, and easily adjusts so you can get the perfect fit around your little one’s waist as he or she grows (recommended for ages 9 months to 5 years).

To see it in use, go to the Dapper Snappers website.

The Dapper Snappers are available in a variety of colors and are great for both boys and girls, and can even be customized. It’s such an innovative and fuctional product, and adds style to your child's wardrobe too! It’s just too bad that we didn’t have it before—it would’ve prevented many instances of “droopy drawers,” but now that we have Dapper Snappers, “droopy drawers” have disappeared!

Shop: You can purchase Dapper Snappers on the Toddler Tech website, or click here to find a retailer near you.

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

NOPlastic.ca Discount

Looking for stainless steel water bottles or food storage? How about a stainless steel ice cube tray? For these products and more, check out NOplastic.ca. Now through June 30, 2009, you can get $5 off any purchase of $30 or more when shopping on NOplastic.ca. Use code noplastic promo in the discount coupon box.

Spectacular-Day 10: Post-it

3M's Post-its are a must-have for any home or office. Even in my own home, yellow Post-its can be found all over. I use them for reminders, to write lists, to jot down notes to DH, to label boxes, and so much more.

Did you know that Post-it has been offering products made with recycled paper for several years? I sure didn’t, but I think it’s awesome that they were already taking steps to help protect the environment before the “green movement” really started to take off.

According to the website, “For more than a century, 3M has been making products that make people’s lives easier and better. We’re successful because we listen to our customers’ needs and interests. Then we create products and solutions that address these concerns. That’s why over 10 years ago we introduced Post-it® Recycled Notes. This line was developed to integrate recycled content, thus providing more options to address environmental concerns in the marketplace.”

I was fortunate to receive a whole bunch of Post-it Recycled Notes products: Super Sticky 3”x3” Recycled Notes (ARV $7.99/5 pads, assorted colors), 3”x3” Recycled Notes (ARV $13.29/12 pads, assorted colors), Super Sticky 4”x6” Recycled Lined Notes (ARV $6.50/4 pads, assorted colors), 4”x6” Recycled Lined Notes (ARV $14.99/5 pads, assorted colors).

Post-it® Recycled Notes are “made from 100 percent recycled paper and contains 30 percent postconsumer content.” The Super Sticky Recycled Notes are “made from a minimum of 30 percent postconsumer content; color palette reflects the rich colors of nature.”

I love the variety of colors. The yellow Post-its are fine, but to have so many color

s available makes it easier to organize things and color coordinate items and to-do lists (I use one color for DH's list and another for my list). I put Post-its all over the place—in notebooks, on the refrigerator, on the door, on bags…you can’t step too far without finding a Post-it in our home!

3M’s commitment to sustainability, as well as their commitment to continuously provide consumers with functional and innovative products, are reasons why you’ll always find Post-its in my home.

Shop: To purchase Post-it Recycled Notes and Super Sticky Recycled Notes, click here to find a retailer near you.

Win: 3 winners will each receive a Post-it Super Sticky 3”x3” Recycled Notes Cube in Tropical Colors (5 pads of 90 sheets each) and Post-it Recycled 4”x6” Lined Notes in assorted pastel (5 pads of 100 sheets each), total ARV $22.98.

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED***
Congratulations to spitfyr323, Smarts Cents Mom, nightowl!

To enter, visit Post-it and comment on your favorite product (excluding anything mentioned in this post; please be specific).
You’ll get one extra entry each if you do any of the following (be sure to leave a comment for each “entry”):
1)Blog about this giveaway and link back to Sage and Savvy and Post-it
2)Subscribe to my feed
3)Add my button to your sidebar
4)Follow me on Twitter (leave your Twitter name in your comment)
5)Add my Spectacular banner to your sidebar
You’ll get three extra entries if you leave a comment on my first blogiversary post, noting which is your favorite product featured on Sage and Savvy within the past year (through 6/12/09) and why. Leave a comment for each extra entry in this giveaway post, noting SSS1 in your first extra entry, SSS2 in your second extra entry, SSS3 in your third extra entry.
The deadline for entries is June 29, 2009, 11:59pm HST.
If you submitted an eligible entry and it is chosen by random.org as the winner, you will be notified via email on June 30, 2009 (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 Post-it for providing the product(s) for review and/or giveaway.

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Snapily

If you want to turn your photos into extraordinary invitations or greeting cards, you’ll have to check out the LivingPrints from Snapily.

According to the website, "Snapily is changing the way the world views pictures. From today on – the common villager can order pictures with depth and animation. LIFE IS EXCITING AGAIN. Snapily printed photos are so unique—filled with motion and emotion—we’ve given them their own name: LivingPrints."

I was fortunate to receive some sample products made with Snapily: a 6”x 4.25” Invitation (ARV $24/12 pack), 3” x 1.9” Business Cards (ARV $7.99/20 pack), a 5” x 7” Greeting Card (ARV $3.99 each), and 8”x 8” Scrapbook Pages (ARV $5.49 each).

All of the items were just so cool, with 3D effects, animation, and fun graphics. And you can make the items with your very own photos!

To get a taste of how the LivingPrints work, you can make a card online to send to friends and family. The process was really easily—I uploaded two photos of Smiley Boy, added some text, and it was done!

To make an actual card (or other Snapily product) is just as easy. You simply choose your design, upload your photos, add text, and that’s it!

Snapily would make invitations and cards a lot more special and unique. A cute idea for a 1st birthday party invitation would be to upload a photo of your child at birth, and then another close to his or her 1st birthday to show how much he or she has grown. Wouldn’t that be neat?

There’s even a handy Gift Wizard to help you choose the perfect product based on details you provide about the recipient.

You can create products for all sorts of occasions, there are various designs to choose from, and the process is simple from start to finish. Try it out! You just have to see for yourself how neat and fun Snapily’s products are!

Turn your photos alive with Snapily and surprise your loved ones on the next special occasion!

Shop: To purchase cool and exciting LivingPrints, visit the Snapily website.

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

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