Our family drinks a lot of water, and I've been drinking more than usual these days since I'm pregnant. Thanks to Mom Central Consulting, I received a Filtrete Water Pitcher that provides me with a lot of filtered water really quickly so I can easily quench my thirst when necessary!

Unlike traditional filtering pitchers, the new 12 cup Filtrete pitcher fills faster than slow filtering pitchers!
-One Water Pitcher and Lid, One Filtrete™ Fast Flow Filter
-Filters and fills five times faster than traditional pitcher filters*
-Holds more water in less space; filters into a 12 cup pitcher
-Filter lasts longer, filtering two and a half times more water than traditional pitcher filters (up to 100 gallons or for approximately three months)

After washing the pitcher and running water through the filter as instructed, I ran some water through the Filtrete Water Pitcher, and I was impressed with how quickly the water flowed through the filter!

I was also impressed with how much water the pitcher can hold (more than any other pitcher I've tried), yet it can fit in the refrigerator door shelves (in my fridge it can only fit in two of four door shelves, but since those shelves are usually full, I simply leave the pitcher on the inside shelves).

I also thought it was a lot lighter than other pitchers I have, even when full.

The water tasted just fine, and during meals, I usually leave the pitcher out so I can easily pour water for anyone in our family, and when it's empty, I quickly and easily filter more water!

What's also great about the Filtrete Water Pitcher is that by registering on their website, I can get newsletter, promotional information, as well as reminders as to when to change the water filter (there is a timestrip on the water filter to remind you when to change it, but getting another reminder via email wouldn't hurt!).

Overall I think the Filtrete Water Pitcher is a lightweight and space-saving pitcher that quickly and easily provides my family with refreshing water whenever we need some!

Shop: You can purchase the Filtrete Water Pitcher at various retailers online and nationwide (ARV $55).

Our family recently listened to the CD Playhouse Disney: Let's Dance, which was full of songs that made my boys go crazy dancing!

This album features songs from the most popular shows like Handy Manny, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Imagination Movers, plus brand new music from Agent Oso and Dance-A-Lot Robot!

Playhouse Disney: Let's Dance really is a CD that will make both kids and adults want to dance!

My boys loved dancing along to most of the songs, and Smiley Boy really enjoyed The Birthday Song and Beat Box.

My favorite songs were those by Happy Monster Band, such as London Town and Siesta, Siesta. We all enjoy watching Happy Monster Band, which we usually catch between certain Playhouse Disney Shows--they have such a cool vibe and I love their sound!

The next time we have a playdate in our home I'll be sure to have Playhouse Disney: Let's Dance playing. I don't know who'll have more fun singing and dancing--the adults or the kids!

Shop: You can purchase Playhouse Disney: Let's Dance on Amazon.com and at various retailers online and nationwide (ARV $11.99).

Win: One lucky winner will receive a copy of Playhouse Disney: Let's Dance!

• To enter, visit Playhouse Disney: Let's Dance and comment on your favorite track (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 Playhouse Disney: let's Dance(leave the link in your comment)
  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)Tweet this giveaway (leave the link in your comment)
• The deadline for entries is November 14, 2010, 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 or about November 15, 2010 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment and be sure to check your junk/spam, etc. folders) and will have 3 days to accept.
• Valid for US addresses only.
• By entering in this giveaway, you have read and agreed to Sage and Savvy’s policies regarding giveaways.
  Good luck!

Last month the Gin Blossoms released their new album, No Chocolate Cake.

Known for creating indelibly melodic, Grammy-nominated Top Ten singles and platinum-selling albums, Gin Blossoms—Robin Wilson, Jesse Valenzuela, Scott Johnson and Bill Leen, are back and in peak form. The eleven new tracks were written, produced and performed by the band with the help of John Richardson (drums) and Danny Wilde on keyboards and additional production (of The Rembrandts).

Four years after the critically acclaimed “Major Lodge Victory,” Gin Blossoms have put together a seamless musical confection. The band continues to benefit from an innate chemistry and inspiration—a dynamic that helped catapult songs such as “Hey Jealousy,” “Found Out About You,” “Till I Hear From You” and “Follow You Down” into the collective musical consciousness and helped define an era as well as selling 30 million records worldwide.

Says Wilson “There’s just something about the way we play and sound together. It’s those songs and the sound we make that add up to something indefinable.”

“NO CHOCOLATE CAKE” track listing:
1) Don’t Change For Me
2) I Don’t Want To Lose You Now
3) Miss Disarray
4) Wave Bye Bye
5) I’m Ready
6) Somewhere Tonight
7) Go Crybaby
8) If You’ll Be Mine
9) Dead Or Alive On The 405
10) Something Real
11) Goin’ To California

Shop: You can purchase No Chocolate Cake at various retailers online and nationwide (ARV $15.98).

Win: One lucky winner will receive a copy of Gin Blossoms: No Chocolate Cake.

• To enter, comment on why you'd like to win!
• 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 Gin Blossoms (leave the link in your comment)
  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)Tweet this giveaway (leave the link in your comment)
• The deadline for entries is November 13, 2010, 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 or about November 14, 2010 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment and be sure to check your junk/spam, etc. folders) and will have 3 days to accept.
• Valid for US addresses only.
• By entering in this giveaway, you have read and agreed to Sage and Savvy’s policies regarding giveaways.
  Good luck!

DH says I'm the hardest person to buy gifts for.

I disagree.

My favorite kinds of gifts are ones that are handmade and from the heart--poems, crafts, blankets (DH actually made me a blanket!).

In fact, for our stocking stuffers, instead of little gifts, we all write notes to each other about our favorite memories of the past year and what we look forward to in the next.

But when it comes to things that you can actually buy in a store, I love practical gifts.

You may think this is odd, but in the past I've requested and gotten a Food Saver, a George Foreman Grill, and a Crock Pot!

There are a lot of things on my wish list this year of similar nature--a steamer carpet cleaner, a bread machine, a new camera, "green" cookware...

I don't know if I'll get any of those for the holidays (or maybe I'll end up buying them myself), but maybe DH will read this so he can start doing some research!

What "material" things (things you can buy in a store) are on your wish list this year?

Thanks to Just Jen, a company that offers fashionable wedding hoodies, maternity shirts, and even baby apparel, I received a "sweet" tee that I simply love!

Welcome to the Custom T-Shirt of your dreams, at JustJen.com! All our sparkling rhinestone t shirts and clothing are embellished with genuine Swarovski crystal rhinestones. Shop our Bride Shirts, Big Sister T-Shirts, Cheerleading T-Shirts, Christmas T Shirts, Halloween Shirts, Birthday T Shirts or create your own custom designs online. Shirts are shipped within days, not weeks!

There are so many cute designs on Just Jen, but I ultimately decided on the Cupcake T Shirt.


For this tee, I picked a brown fitted short-sleeve tee, and the cupcake design really popped against the brown. Even DH complimented me on the shirt!

Depending on the design, not only can you pick the style and color of the tee, but you can also pick out what color rhinestone you want.

I love that you can really customize the shirts on Just Jen to suit your own tastes.

The designs Just Jen offers cater to a variety of tastes too. You can select tees with symbols, your zodiac sign, or ones that display your name, your hubby's name, or your initial! And I love the baby girls clothing too--they're so adorable! If you or someone you know has a little girl, there are so many cute items perfect for that little princess or rock star.

So whether you're looking for something stylish for yourself or a little one, check out Just Jen for customizable tees that are sure to make a statement!

Win: One lucky winner will receive a Just Jen shirt of choice!

• To enter, visit Just Jen and comment on what shirt you'd pick if you won.
• You may do any of the following for extra entries (be sure to leave a comment on this post for each “entry”):
• 1)Blog about this giveaway and link back to Sage and Savvy and Just Jen; leave the link in your comment (1 extra entry)
• 2)Subscribe to my feed (1 extra entry)
• 3)Add my button to your sidebar; leave the URL (1 extra entry)
• 4)Add my Baby Essentials & Gift Guide button to your sidebar; leave the URL (1 extra entry)
• 5)Follow me on Twitter; leave your Twitter name in your comment (1 extra entry)
• 6)Tweet this giveaway; leave your link/Twitter name in your comment (1 extra entry)
• 7)Tweet the following "Check out @sagemom's Baby Essentials & Gift Guide http://tinyurl.com/29gb9uk"; leave your link/Twitter name in your comment (1 extra entry)
• 8)Leave a comment on the Must-Have Baby Products post stating what your all-time favorite baby product is; please be specific (3 extra entries)
• The deadline for entries is November 12, 2010, 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 or about November 13, 2010 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment and be sure to check your junk/spam, etc. folders) and will have 3 days to accept.
• Valid for US addresses only.
• By entering in this giveaway, you have read and agreed to Sage and Savvy’s policies regarding giveaways.
  Good luck!

There's so much news about bullying these days, and the book Ten Big Toes and a Prince's Nose by Nancy Gow, illustrated by Stephen Costanza, is a great book for little kids to learn how it's important to accept themselves and others for who they are, despite differences that are physical or otherwise.


Poor princess! When suitors saw her feet, they ran for the door before even getting to know her. And in another land, far away, a kind prince had a similar problem: although he was funny and kind, he also had a huge nose that scared off every maiden he met. But a serendipitous meeting on a ski slope teaches this adorably flawed (and well-matched) pair an important lesson:
I am what I am and that's all right with me.
I don't have to be different, I just have to be.
I don't want to be somebody else. No sir-ree!
I am what I am and that's all right with me.
With whimsical surprises, lavish art, and a fantastical story about love and acceptance, this picture book will delight readers of any age.

When I read Ten Big Toes and a Prince's Nose to my boys, Smiley Boy immediately said "wow" when he saw the princess' big feet and toes. The story does exaggerate the princess' toes and prince's nose so they look extraordinarily big, but it does help in teaching them that such physical differences really doesn't reflect a person's personality and character.

The story itself was a really nice one, and the "I am what I am" poem is a great addition to the story.

Although I think my boys are still a little too young to understand the point of the story, it's amazing how observant kids are, so as a parent I always make sure they treat everyone with kindness and respect and that I do the same.

Ten Big Toes and a Prince's Nose combines whimsical illustrations, a great poem, and a sweet story to stress the importance of accepting people despite any differences they may have.

The story would be great to read again and again as my boys get older so they never forget that they, along with everyone else, are unique individuals, and should be proud of who they are.

Shop: You can purchase Ten Big Toes and a Prince's Nose at various retailers online and nationwide (ARV $14.95).

If you haven't already noticed, I have a Holiday Gift Guide banner on my sidebar. I wasn't planning on doing a holiday gift guide, but I had a change of heart. Especially since there are just so many great gift ideas--books, CDs, gift cards, toys...

So starting next month I'll be posting some cool Holiday Gift Guide Giveaways, so maybe you can win something for yourself or someone special in your life!

Thanks to Fresh Produce, I received a pretty and very comfy dress that I wore to my favorite brunch venue to celebrate an anniversary.

Now in its third decade, Fresh Produce continues to be primarily Made in the USA and has grown into a $50 million company with one of the most original, refreshing and captivating casual, resort and sportswear lines in America. Known and loved by women ages 6 months to 60-plus for lush colors, year-round sensibility, simply inspired design and coastal comfort, Fresh Produce continues to delight customers around the globe. Fresh Produce can be found in Nordstrom, Walt Disney resorts and stores, and over 800 specialty boutiques and resort retailers. Plus, company-owned stores and factory outlets are scattered throughout the country, including exclusive seashore resorts in North America and the Caribbean.

I was fortunate to receive the Sunshine Dress (ARV $54.00) in black. The dress comes in other colors, but I prefer dark, neutral colors in my wardrobe, so I was very happy with the black dress.

It was so comfortable! I love the empire waist and the flounce ruffles at the bottom.
But what I like most about the dress is how versatile it is!
As I mentioned, I wore it to a brunch, and it was perfect for the occasion. Sitting alongside the beach, the dress left me feeling nice and cool, and even now that I have a growing baby bump, I still felt so comfortable in it!
I could also imagine wearing this dress at a wedding or a girls night out dinner. Just add on a few accessories and I could take the dress from day to night!
Fresh Produce offers many other dresses, as well as tops, bottoms, and items for kids too!
So whether you're looking for something comfy and classy, for a casual outing or an evening out, Fresh Produce has a nice selection to choose from!
Win: One lucky winner will receive a Cafe Wrap Dress, choice of size and color (based on availability).

• To enter, visit Fresh Produce and comment on your favorite item (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 Fresh Produce (leave the link in your comment)
  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)Tweet this giveaway (leave the link in your comment)
• The deadline for entries is November 12, 2010, 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 or about November 13, 2010 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment and be sure to check your junk/spam, etc. folders) and will have 3 days to accept.
• Valid for US addresses only.
• By entering in this giveaway, you have read and agreed to Sage and Savvy’s policies regarding giveaways.
  Good luck!

Shop: You can purchase Daily Guideposts 2011 at various retailers online and nationwide (ARV $19.99).

Win: One lucky winner will receive a copy of Daily Guideposts: 2011!

• To enter, comment on why you'd like to win!
• 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 Daily Guideposts (leave the link in your comment)
  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)Tweet this giveaway (leave the link in your comment)
• The deadline for entries is November 10, 2010, 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 or about November 11, 2010 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment and be sure to check your junk/spam, etc. folders) and will have 3 days to accept.
• Valid for US addresses only.
• By entering in this giveaway, you have read and agreed to Sage and Savvy’s policies regarding giveaways.
  Good luck!

Smiley Boy and I recently read the book Little Chimp's Big Day by Lisa Schroeder, illustrated by Lisa McCue.

In the jungle, in a tree
Sits a little chimpanzee.
Mother said she'd be right back
But now the branch snaps with a crack…

And in a SNAP, Little Chimp is off on a big adventure-taking a watery ride atop a hippo, swinging on vines, and munching bunches of bananas. But as he goes bumping, jumping, and racing across the jungle, he never stops wondering: “Where could Mother be?” Little Chimp may not know, but sharp-eyed kids will see that mommy has an eye on him all the time! An enchanting text filled with rhythm and rhyme, and sweetly charming illustrations.

Not only did Smiley Boy enjoy listening to the rhymes, but he loved imitating Little Chimp! When Little Chimp landed with a thud in mud, Smiley Boy crouched down to the ground in the same position as Little Chimp.

He also had so much fun trying to glide and ride, roar and soar, and flip and flop!

Smiley Boy also loved looking at the different animals, but I know Little Chimp was his favorite, because he'd always have a big smile on his face whenever he'd see Little Chimp!

Little Chimp's Big Day is a really cute book that Smiley Boy loves to read and act out!

Shop: You can purchase Little Chimp's Big Day at various retailers online and nationwide (ARV $14.95).

I've heard many positive reviews about the HBO series Treme, and today marks the CD release of TREME: MUSIC FROM THE HBO ORIGINAL SERIES, SEASON 1.

The soundtrack album includes 19 tracks featuring music heard throughout the groundbreaking series over the course of its first season, offering a cross-section of New Orleans-bred music including rhythm and blues, soul, jazz, rock and roll, funk, folk and country that reflects the diversity of the city’s musical tradition.

Artists heard on the soundtrack -- and seen in the series -- include John Boutté whose “Treme Song” is the series’ theme. The Rebirth Brass Band’s “Feel Like Funkin’ It Up” reflects the melding of the city’s brass band tradition with a contemporary funk cadence that exemplifies the musical melting post that is New Orleans. Steve Zahn who plays DJ/musician Davis McAlary in the series is heard performing “Shame, Shame, Shame” The album includes Dr. John’s “Indian Red,” as well as “Time Is On My Side” by Irma Thomas and Allen Toussaint plus Steve Earle’s “This City” and much more music that evokes the tenor of the series and the spirit of New Orleans.

From David Simon and Eric Overmyer (both of The Wire®), Treme follows musicians, chefs, Mardi Gras Indians and ordinary New Orleanians as they try to rebuild their lives, their homes and their unique culture in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The acclaimed show has been renewed for a second season which will air in 2011.

Shop: You can purchase Treme: Music from the HBO Original Series, Season 1 on iTunes or Amazon.com (ARV $14.99).

Win: One lucky winner will receive a copy of Treme: Music from the Original HBO Original Series, Season 1.

• To enter, visit the Treme Soundtrack website and comment on your favorite track.
• 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 Treme Soundtrack (leave the link in your comment)
  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)Tweet this giveaway (leave the link in your comment)
• The deadline for entries is November 9, 2010, 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 or about (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment and be sure to check your junk/spam, etc. folders) and will have 3 days to accept.
• Valid for US addresses only.
• By entering in this giveaway, you have read and agreed to Sage and Savvy’s policies regarding giveaways.
  Good luck!

For those of you who don't already know, I'm having another boy!

I'll have three little rascals running around!

I'm not disappointed at all that I'm not having a girl.

Really.

I'm just so concerned that the baby will be born happy and healthy, since after all, it was a surprise blessing.

And that's what it really is--a blessing.

It's funny how if you have only boys (or girls) people will ask if you're going to try for a girl (or boy).

I just feel fortunate to be a mom and have my wonderful kids, regardless of their gender!

Several months ago we watched an NCircle Entertainment DVD which featured several preschool shows, one of which was Pocoyo. We had never seen or heard of Pocoyo before, but ever since we watched that DVD, my boys have been hooked, and we were just bummed that it wasn't shown on TV here in the US.

But that all changed a few months ago! Pocoyo made his debut on Nick Jr., and now toys and DVDs are available at stores nationwide.

We recently got to review one of the Pocoyo DVDs: Meet Pocoyo!

Meet Pocoyo, the unforgettable little boy with a very big personality! Your child will learn through laughter as 3-year-old Pocoyo and his adorable friends Elly, Pato, Loula and Sleepy Bird explore the world around them. In these charming episodes, Pocoyo enjoys making music, blowing bubbles, solving puzzles, and even watching an egg hatch. Filled with sights and sounds perfectly tailored to encourage child development, Meet Pocoyo is preschool entertainment especially designed to delight your child!

Pocoyo is so appealing to my little boys, especially Smiley Boy. The colorful characters, the playful language, and the fun gestures make my boys giggle and smile.

Smiley Boy's favorite episode was The Big Sneeze . He thought it was so funny whenever Elly would sneeze and the blocks would fall!

He also liked Umbrella, Umbrella, exclaiming "mameya" (he has a hard time pronouncing "umbrella) whenever he'd see the umbrella!

Pocoyo is full of delightful characters that help to teach lessons and show how to problem-solve in a fun and charming way!

If your kids haven't discovered Pocoyo yet, Meet Pocoyo! is a great way to discover what Pocoyo's world is all about!

Shop: You can purchase Meet Pocoyo! at various retailers online and nationwide (ARV $14.99).

Thank you to the sponsor for providing the product for review free of charge. All opinions are my own. I received no monetary compensation for this post.

Since I love garlic, I decided to make the Roasted Garlic mashed potatoes. I simply boiled some water and butter, then removed it from the heat and mixed in the potatoes along with some milk, let it stand for 3-5 minutes since I like my potatoes stiffer, then fluffed it with a fork.
Fluffing the potatoes with a fork was a bit difficult for me--it seemed like I couldn't get it nearly as smooth as how it looked in the box, so I left it a little bit lumpy.
I served the mashed potatoes with some chicken, and I admit I was a little bit skeptical as to how good it would taste, but I was pleasantly surprised.

• To enter, comment on a dish that you think would go great with Betty Crocker's Boxed Instant Mashed Potatoes.
• 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 Betty Crocker's Boxed Instant Mashed Potatoes (leave the link in your comment)
• 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)Tweet this giveaway (leave the link in your comment)
• 6)Follow Betty Crocker on Twitter (leave your Twitter name in your comment)
• The deadline for entries is November 8, 2010, 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 or about November 9, 2010 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment and be sure to check your junk/spam, etc. folders) and will have 3 days to accept.
• Valid for US addresses only.
• By entering in this giveaway, you have read and agreed to Sage and Savvy’s policies regarding giveaways.
  Good luck!

When Smiley Boy was born, my goal was to make as much homemade baby food as possible once he was ready for solids. I did make some baby food, but not as much as I would have liked to. This was due to various reasons--a lack of good tools and equipment, as well as a lack of knowledge in terms of how to prepare foods and what types of foods were best to prepare.

Fortunately, I recently received some great Annabel Karmel feeding products that not only will help me easily prepare baby food for DS3, but they are already coming in handy for Smiley Boy too!

Welcome to Annabel Karmel – everything you need to feed your baby or toddler and make mealtime fun. As your baby grows into a child, it’s an incredibly exciting and busy time. Annabel Karmel can give you a helping hand, with cooking and mealtime accessories that make for easy prep, healthy cooking, fun eating and simple storage and clean up.

Annabel Karmel's products are bright and colorful, and what I think is very important--they're BPA-free.

The Stackable Food Pots are nicely sized and I like how they can go directly from freezer to microwave. I had another type of baby food storage containers that couldn't go directly from freezer to microwave, so this ability is a big time saver!

So far, my favorite item (or should I say Smiley Boy's favorite item) is the Fill & Freeze Puree Pops.

These are ideal for when your baby is teething, and even though Smiley Boy is beyond his teething stages, I knew he'd still love indulging in a pop (Little Music Man indulged in one too!).

I filled the molds with pomegranate juice, and froze them.

I couldn't find any information on the packaging or inserts on how long to freeze them, but after a few hours, they were ready to eat.

Taking them out was a bit difficult. The first one broke apart, so after putting the mold in some warm water and then letting it sit for a few minutes on my counter, the pops came out easily and unbroken.

And the boys sure loved them! Annabel Karmel's products make home preparation and storage of food easy, and whatever I can do to help my boys eat healthier, the better.

Once the holidays arrive, I always look forward to getting holiday cards from friends and family. I love sending out cards too, but I always have such a hard time deciding on a design simply because there are so many great ones to choose from, like those on Shutterfly.

When it comes to holiday cards, my preference of design always leans towards ones that can accommodate photos of my boys, and ones that use non-typical holiday colors, like browns and blues, such as the following holiday photo cards being offered by Shutterfly:

Happy Snowflakes-I love the whimsical snowflake design and the blue!

Retro Ornaments Blue-I love the retro ornament design, and of course I love the blue here too!
Love Stockings-I really love the brown and the cute stockings. I think this one is my favorite of them all.

Fortunately, there's still some time before I make a final decision on the card design. Who knows, after looking through Shutterfly's selection again I may find even more favorites!

But once I finally pick a design, it'll only be a few weeks until I have to go through the difficult decision-making process again, because once the new year arrives, I always send out New Year’s cards that also doubles as personalized thank you cards.

At least Shutterfly makes finding and creating a card simple--with so many cute designs to choose from, I know I'll always find one that I love!

Do you want 50 free holiday cards from Shutterfly? Click here to go to Shutterfly for information on how you can get 50 free cards this holiday season, and make sure to select Clever 1000 as the referral source.

• To enter, comment on what your dream career is.
• 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 Awaken Your CAREERpreneur (leave the link in your comment)
• 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)Tweet this giveaway (leave the link in your comment)
• 6)Follow Alexia Vernon on Twitter (leave your Twitter name in your comment)
• The deadline for entries is November 7, 2010, 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 or about November 8, 2010 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment and be sure to check your junk/spam, etc. folders) and will have 3 days to accept.
• Valid for US addresses only.
• By entering in this giveaway, you have read and agreed to Sage and Savvy’s policies regarding giveaways.
  Good luck!

I've mentioned before how much DH and I love to play trivia games (I've lost count of how many Trivial Pursuit games we have in our game closet!), so we couldn't wait to play Trivial Pursuit: Bet You Know It.

TRIVIAL PURSUIT: Bet You Know It edition is the most inclusive and exciting version of TRIVIAL PURSUIT yet, where players don't have to know all the answers to win - but they do need to know their friends! TRIVIAL PURSUIT: Bet You Know It edition introduces high stakes betting to trivia, where players bet on whether or not their opponents know the answer. Guess correctly and players will earn chips that can be used to buy wedges -- or they can earn wedges by answering questions correctly on their turn.

The first time we played Trivial Pursuit: Bet You Know It, we often times forgot that we had to bet if the other player would get the answer right or wrong, so betting did take some getting used to. However, once we got the hang of it, it was pretty funny to see how often I would bet that DH would get an answer wrong, and how often he would bet that I would get an answer right!

Another thing about Bet You Know It that's different from other Trivial Pursuit Games we've played is the use of Topics. On your turn, you pick a card (out of 4) based on the topic, which allows the other player to bet for or against you. The topics can be a bit deceiving, which makes it even more fun!

Throughout the game, when I landed on a Buy or Roll space and had enough points to buy a wedge, I immediately bought a wedge of the color category I always have trouble with (like History).

Normally, DH beats me at Trivial Pursuit, but so far, I've beaten him in more Bet You Know It games, since I'm often buying wedges, but that's part of how you play the game, so I shouldn't feel bad. A win is a win!

Shop: You can purchase Trivial Pursuit: Bet You Know It at various retailers online and nationwide (ARV $29.99).

Thank you to Hasbro for providing the product for review free of charge. All opinions are my own. I received no monetary compensation for this post.

Ideas That Spark: Mom2Mom

Quick and Crafty Fall Outdoor Activities

By Heather Mann for Ideas That Spark

Fall is such a great time to get outside and enjoy nature with your kids -- and you don't have to spend one penny or devote an entire day to do it. Just power down, leave your phone at home and enjoy an hour of crafty fall outdoor activities together.

Outdoor Treasure Hunt
Go on a nature walk and collect materials for various projects. Give each person a paper bag and have them pick up any treasures they find: rocks, leaves, acorns, pinecones and so on. When you get home, spread out your treasures on a square of sidewalk to share with each other. Keep them in a special “treasure” box and use them for the following outdoor activities:

1. Back to Nature Tic-tac-toe
Collect two sets of like items, such as acorns, pine cones, rocks (at least five of each per set) to use as game pieces for an outdoor version of tic-tac-toe. Play by drawing a game board on the ground with sidewalk chalk.

2. Funny Fall Faces
Draw a circle on the ground with chalk and create a funny face using your natural treasures. Rocks become eyes, leaves become hair, etc. You can vote on the best one or take photos to hang on the fridge.

3. DIY Fall Decorations
Create wreaths, garlands and swags with objects you find in nature. Tie branch clippings together into a round or square wreath formation with extra twine or yarn from your junk drawer. Embellish with brightly colored leaves or fall flowers secured with twist ties or floral wire. Hang your fall family craft projects outside on your fence or front door. Compost them later in the year, when they start looking shabby.

You don't need much to have a great time together outside this fall. Just grab a sweater and go!

Heather Mann is the mother of three little boys and a daily blogger at DollarStoreCrafts.com, where she shares hip craft ideas using frugal materials.

Sage and Savvy is a Studio One Networks Media Partner.

When it comes to diapers, there are so many factors when it comes to making a purchase. For many, cost is a big factor, especially in today's economy, and many parents find Luvs Diapers to be amongst the most affordable.

We realize you demand more from your baby diapers, and less from your wallet. That's why Luvs® Diapers provide premium leakage protection for less than the pricier brands.

Luvs not only offers diapers for less than other brands, but they are constantly seeking feedback from parents, and have recently created a new design based on customer opinions!

After soliciting feedback from current users, Luvs will be replacing the backsheet currently found on their diaper products with an adorable, new monkey design – a look that is preferred three-to-one by those surveyed – enhancing the diaper-changing experience for parents. Consumers will also be treated to a diaper packaging upgrade that will consist of new, updated photography and an added back package panel that will provide parents and caretakers with additional product information.

While our look may be new, the diapers will still be comprised of the same trusted and safe materials used in all previous versions of the product – and will still have the same performance, quality and value parents have come to expect from the Luvs brand.
I personally think the monkey design would look adorable on my little monkey and can't wait until the new design hits the shelves!
Shop: You can purchase Luvs Diapers at various retailers online and nationwide.
Win: One lucky winner will receive a sample pack of Luvs Diapers in the new packaging (size 4 only; approximately 30 diapers).

• To enter, comment on what factor is most important to you when purchasing diapers.
• You may do any of the following for extra entries (be sure to leave a comment on this post for each “entry”):
• 1)Blog about this giveaway and link back to Sage and Savvy and Luvs; leave the link in your comment (1 extra entry)
• 2)Subscribe to my feed (1 extra entry)
• 3)Add my button to your sidebar; leave the URL (1 extra entry)
• 4)Add my Baby Essentials & Gift Guide button to your sidebar; leave the URL (1 extra entry)
• 5)Follow me on Twitter; leave your Twitter name in your comment (1 extra entry)
• 6)Tweet this giveaway; leave your link/Twitter name in your comment (1 extra entry)
• 7)Tweet the following "Check out @sagemom's Baby Essentials & Gift Guide http://tinyurl.com/29gb9uk"; leave your link/Twitter name in your comment (1 extra entry)
• 8)Leave a comment on the Must-Have Baby Products post stating what your all-time favorite baby product is; please be specific (3 extra entries)
• The deadline for entries is November 6, 2010, 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 or about November 7, 2010 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment and be sure to check your junk/spam, etc. folders) and will have 3 days to accept.
• Valid for US addresses only.
• By entering in this giveaway, you have read and agreed to Sage and Savvy’s policies regarding giveaways.
  Good luck!

I recently read Chicken Soup for the Soul: A Book of Miracles, a book full of inspirational stories that touched me more than any other Chicken Soup for the Soul book has before.


A Book of Miracles: 101 True Stories of Healing, Faith, Divine Intervention, and Answered Prayers: Everyone loves a good miracle story, and this book provides 101 true stories of healing, divine intervention, and answered prayers. These amazing stories prove that God is alive and very active in the world today, working miracles on our behalf. Regular people share their personal stories of God's Divine intervention and healing power as He makes the impossible possible! The incredible accounts shared by people from all walks of life show His awesome love and involvement in our lives. This book of miracles will encourage, uplift, and recharge the faith of Christian readers.

Although I'm not a deeply religious person, I do have my own beliefs, and A Book of Miracles really made me think about my life in ways I never had before.

I don't think I've ever cried so much reading a Chicken Soup for the Soul Book. There were so many touching stories!

One of my favorites was Balloons of Hope--a story about writing messages to loved ones who passed, inserting them into balloons, and releasing them. I've heard about people who do this, but reading the story about the special purple balloons really was uplifting.

There are so many other stories that touched my heart, and even the simple stories were inspirational, such as Ask and You Shall Receive, a story about finances.

From divine interventions to spiritual enlightenment to astonishing physical feats, A Book of Miracles can uplift your spirits and perhaps offer hope in times of need, regardless of your religious beliefs.

Shop: You can purchase Chicken Soup for the Soul: A Book of Miracles at various retailers online and nationwide (ARV $14.95)

Win: Three lucky winners will each receive a copy of Chicken Soup for the Soul: A Book of Miracles.

• To enter, comment on a miracle you've experienced or witnessed.
• 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 Chicken Soup for the Soul: A Book of Miracles (leave the link in your comment)
  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)Tweet this giveaway (leave the link in your comment)
• The deadline for entries is November 5, 2010, 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 or about November 6, 2010 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment and be sure to check your junk/spam, etc. folders) and will have 3 days to accept.
• Valid for US addresses only.
• By entering in this giveaway, you have read and agreed to Sage and Savvy’s policies regarding giveaways.
  Good luck!

DH and I love playing Trivial Pursuit, but ever since we became parents we've found it harder to find the time to play. Usually we'll play at night when the boys are asleep, but thanks to Hasbro, we received Trivial Pursuit-Steal, which we can play in just a few minutes, anytime-day or night!



STEAL is the perfect trivia game if you have just 15 minutes to spare.

This fast-paced game is the first ever Trivial Pursuit card game that combines questions and answers with the strategy of winning your wedges by stealing your opponents' - all in a quick-play card game.

We had a lot of fun playing Trivial Pursuit-Steal. There are Steal Cards you can use to steal a wedge (or even two wedges) from your opponent, Block a steal from occurring, or use a Buzz card to "buzz in" with an answer before another player answers.

Because only DH and I played, we decided not to use the Buzz card, but since stealing wedges was encouraged, it made the game very interesting, especially since DH usually wins Trivial Pursuit games and Steal gave me a chance to actually win!

At first we didn't use the Steal cards because we kept getting the same color wedge cards correct, but of course, if the other person earned a wedge card in a category we thought was difficult (like History), you can bet that the Steal card was used!

Unfortunately for me, I haven't won in Steal yet, but I'm sure I will soon!

You don't need a lot of time to play Trivial Pursuit-Steal. It's fast-paced fun, and at least for me, it gives me a better chance at beating DH in a Trivial Pursuit game!

Shop: You can purchase Trivial Pursuit-Steal at various retailers online and nationwide (ARV $6.99)

Win: Three lucky winners will each receive Trivial Pursuit-Steal!

• To enter, comment on which is your favorite Trivial Pursuit-Steal category: Geography, History, Science & Nature, Entertainment, Art & Literature, or Sports & Leisure.
• 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 Trivial Pursuit-Steal (leave the link in your comment)
  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)Tweet this giveaway (leave the link in your comment)
• The deadline for entries is November 4, 2010, 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 or about November 5, 2010 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment and be sure to check your junk/spam, etc. folders) and will have 3 days to accept.
• Valid for US addresses only.
• By entering in this giveaway, you have read and agreed to Sage and Savvy’s policies regarding giveaways.
  Good luck!
  

DH and I have been thinking about remodeling our home a lot lately, and when it comes to the kitchen, the one brand that keeps popping up is KraftMaid.

However, when it comes to remodeling, I know how daunting the task can be, especially when it comes to finding the right design. Fortunately, KraftMaid has some great tools and some new products to help make the design process easier!

I recently took advantage of Wendy's 2 for $4.99 special (it's 2 for $5.98 in Hawaii).

Pair any premium half-size salad with one of 7 tasty options, such as a small beverage, a baked potato, or a small Frosty!

Even though I already tried the Baja Salad before and said I'd try another salad the next time, I really wanted to eat it again so I ordered the Baja Salad and a Baked Potato since I haven't had a baked potato in a really long time.


As with the last time I ordered the Baja Salad--everything was fresh (the lettuce, the pico de gallo) and delicious! The Baked Potato was yummy too!

Both the half salad and the baked potato was actually too much food for me--I ended up eating only half of the salad and I got to enjoy the leftovers the next day!

I think Wendy's 2 for $4.99 menu is a good deal (even at $5.98 in Hawaii I still think it's a good deal), and hopefully they'll continue to have this promotion so the next time I can try new salads (really, I will)!

Win: Three lucky winners will each receive a $7 Wendy's Gift Card!

• To enter, visit Wendy's and comment on which two items you'd pick in the 2 for $4.99 special!
• 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 Wendy's (leave the link in your comment)
  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)Tweet this giveaway (leave the link in your comment)
• The deadline for entries is November 3, 2010, 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 or about November 4, 2010 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment and be sure to check your junk/spam, etc. folders) and will have 3 days to accept.
• Valid for US addresses only.
• By entering in this giveaway, you have read and agreed to Sage and Savvy’s policies regarding giveaways.
  Good luck!

Below are new coupons at Coupons.com (WYB=When You Buy)

• $0.50 off Minute Ready to Serve Rice Product
• $1.00 off Cocoa Powder WYB Kellogg's Cocoa Krispies
• $1.00 off Peanut Butter WYB Kellogg's Rice Krispies
• $1.00 off Flour WYB Kellogg's Corn Flakes Cereal
• $1.00 off Silvered Almonds WYB Kellogg's Crispix
• $1.00 off Chicken Broth WYB Kellogg's All-Bran
• $3.00 off Any TWO (2) HUGGIES Snug & Dry Diapers
• $2.00 off bag of Purina Dog Chow

I always think personalized gifts are special, and I recently found out about two sites, The Anniversary Rose and Dakota's Personalized Gifts, which offer a variety of gifts for a new baby, an anniversary, a birthday, and many other occasions!

The Anniversary Rose offers a variety of items primarily for couples, but there are a lot of different items that could be the perfect gift for anyone special in your life.

I decided to look for something that I could incorporate a photo in, such as one of The Anniversary Rose's memory boxes, puzzles, albums, or apparel, but I ended up selecting the We Love... Personalized Wooden Picture Frame (ARV $24.95). It states We Love Grandma and Grandpa, and I could have personalized it with my kids' names, but at the time I ordered it I didn't know what baby #3's name would be, so I decided to leave the bottom of the frame blank.

It's still a very special frame that I know the boys' grandparents will love!

Dakota's Personalized Gifts offers a great variety of personalized gifts too. For babies, there are blankets, toys, frames, and more!
You can find something for the holidays, birthdays, graduations, and all sorts of special occasions!
Whether you're looking for a gift to celebrate a new baby, a birthday, an anniversary, or even a promotion, The Anniversary Rose and Dakota's Personalized Gifts make it easy to find a special gift for that special someone.

Win: One lucky winner will receive a $50 Gift Certificate to Dakota's Personalized Gifts!

• To enter, visit Dakota's Personalized Gifts and comment on what you'd use the gift certificate on (please be specific).
• You may do any of the following for extra entries (be sure to leave a comment on this post for each “entry”):
• 1)Blog about this giveaway and link back to Sage and Savvy and Dakota's Personalized Gifts and The Anniversary Rose; leave the link in your comment (1 extra entry)
• 2)Subscribe to my feed (1 extra entry)
• 3)Add my button to your sidebar; leave the URL (1 extra entry)
• 4)Add my Baby Essentials & Gift Guide button to your sidebar; leave the URL (1 extra entry)
• 5)Follow me on Twitter; leave your Twitter name in your comment (1 extra entry)
• 6)Tweet this giveaway; leave your link/Twitter name in your comment (1 extra entry)
• 7)Tweet the following "Check out @sagemom's Baby Essentials & Gift Guide http://tinyurl.com/29gb9uk"; leave your link/Twitter name in your comment (1 extra entry)
• 8)Leave a comment on the Must-Have Baby Products post stating what your all-time favorite baby product is; please be specific (3 extra entries)
• The deadline for entries is November 2, 2010, 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 or about November 3, 2010 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment and be sure to check your junk/spam, etc. folders) and will have 3 days to accept.
• Valid for US addresses only.
• By entering in this giveaway, you have read and agreed to Sage and Savvy’s policies regarding giveaways.
  Good luck!

As with my previous pregnancies, my flavor preferences have been changing. Usually I prefer savory flavors, but lately I've been preferring sweet flavors. Did you know your flavor preference says a lot about you?

A recent Lawry´s survey found that your choice of flavor says more about you than you think. The nationwide poll looked at preferences for tart, spicy, sweet, and savory flavors and found that your choice can reveal some interesting aspects of your personality.

Joyous Joiners - Tart Flavors
If you are one for tart flavors, you tend to be extremely happy overall, particularly with your family, finances, work/life balance and even your health. As a Joyous Joiners you are an extrovert who loves to entertain at home, find it very important to join in social events in your community and are active on the greatest number of social networking sites.

Self-Assured Adventurers - Spicy Flavors If your preference is for spicy flavors, consider yourself a confident, adventurous individual with a passion for travel and cooking. You are the biggest risk taker and although impulsive, you are not reckless - as a Self-Assured Adventurer you also tend to be resourceful, analytical, and most able to "look at the big picture."

The Sweet Lifers - Sweet Flavors
As a Sweet Lifer, home and family are close to your heart. You are the kindest and most loyal, although you probably wouldn´t admit that as you are also the most modest. As an individual that prefers sweeter flavors (honey and fruit-infused), you are influenced by your parents, enjoy family entertainment, and consider yourself spiritual.

The Conventionalists - Savory Flavors
Your passion for savory flavors shows you have an enthusiasm for politics, enjoy camping and hiking and love outdoor barbeques and American cuisine. Along with the other Conventionalists, you tend to be more introverted than the rest of the groups and often describe yourself as a homebody.

Lawry´s has something for you no matter what your flavor is, including two new marinades and four new Seasoning Mix packets that help create simple meals with an abundance of flavor:

Marinades: Szechuan Sweet & Sour BBQ; Tuscan Sun-Dried Tomato; Seasoning Mixes: Asian Style Beef & Broccoli, Chimichurri Burrito Casserole, Mediterranean Sundried Tomato & Garlic Chicken, Tuscan Style Chicken Marsala with Garlic and Basil.

I was fortunate to receive a bunch of Lawry's goodies thanks to MyBlogSpark, which included the marinades, seasoning mixes, and more.

It was so hard to decide what to make with all of the delcious-sounding flavors, but the first thing I made was chicken with the Szechuan Sweet & Sour BBQ.


The marinade smelled great, and I marinated some chicken tenderloins in it for 45 minutes. All it takes is 30 minutes, but the longer you let it marinate, the stronger the flavor is supposed to be. I would've let it marinate a lot longer, but I wanted to make sure it would be ready in time for dinner.
After baking the chicken tenderloins for about 35 minutes, it came out moist and delicious.

It was a bit spicy, but also very tangy and flavorful.
I think I'll be trying the Tuscan Style Chicken Marsala Seasoning Mix next because I love to eat it Chicken Marsala at restaurants, so hopefully it'll turn out just as good when I make it!
Lawry's offers a variety of products to cater to all sorts of tastes, so it should be easy to find something that suits your flavor preference!
Shop: You can find Lawry's Seasoning Mixes and Marinades at grocers nationwide.
Win: One lucky winner will receive a Lawry's "What's Your Flavor" kit which includes a marinating dish, a set of skewers, Lawry´s two new marinades, as well as a sample of each of the four new Seasoning Mixes and a bottle of Lawry´s Seasoned Salt.

• To enter, comment on what your flavor preference is (tart, spicy, sweet, or savory)
• 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 Lawry's (leave the link in your comment)
  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)Tweet this giveaway (leave the link in your comment)
• The deadline for entries is October 31, 2010, 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 or about November 1, 2010 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment and be sure to check your junk/spam, etc. folders) and will have 3 days to accept.
• Valid for US addresses only.
• By entering in this giveaway, you have read and agreed to Sage and Savvy’s policies regarding giveaways.
  Good luck!

• To enter, comment on why you'd like to win!
• 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 Maroon 5 (leave the link in your comment)
  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)Tweet this giveaway (leave the link in your comment)
• The deadline for entries is October 30, 2010, 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 or about October 31, 2010 (make sure your email address is in your profile or comment and be sure to check your junk/spam, etc. folders) and will have 3 days to accept.
• Valid for US addresses only.
• By entering in this giveaway, you have read and agreed to Sage and Savvy’s policies regarding giveaways.
  Good luck!