Savvy SAHM Reviews

Wrapped Up Review Wednesday Nature's Baby Organics

2009-03-11T22:57:00.003-05:00

I think y'all are used to my little rants about what we use on and around our body has a profound effect on our body. One of my biggest goals is to use all natural items on my daughter when she is bathing. My daughter has the most sensitive skin I've ever seen. She's 5 1/2 and we still have to use dreft because of her reaction to regular detergents. She randomly (but often) breaks out in hives, often without an apparent reason. My daughter is also a special needs child who has been through a whole lot in her little life and I want to do everything I can to make it easier for her. One of the things that I can do for her is to make sure she is using products that are safe. When I first looked at the Nature's Baby Organics website I was instantly impressed. One of the first things you see is that the products do not contain:
• No Parabens • No Phthalates • No Propylene Glycol
• No Sulfates (SLS)• No Synthetic Fragrances• No DEA
Nature's Baby Organics really did cover all their bases! I also love that Nature's Baby Organics gives a complete list of all of the natural ingredients and their use. Check out the ingredient list HERE. The products that I tried from Nature's Baby Organics are: Shampoo and Body Wash in Vanilla-Tangerine Scent, Conditioner & Detangler (Leave in or rinse out!) in Vanilla-Tangerine Scent, Aromatherapy Calming Spray, Organic Soothing Stick, Ah-Choo Chest Rub.

I've got to say that our experience with Nature's Baby Organics has been incredible! My daughter has been known to react to even all natural products so I'm very cautious and we always patch test now. She tolerated everything and had absolutely no reactions whatsoever. I was a very happy mom! The Shampoo and Body wash lathers nicely and cleans very well. The scent is so yummy! I used this as a body wash for myself and also really liked it and would definitely use it again! I LOVE the Conditioner & Detangler. I love that you can leave it in or rinse it out. My daughter has the craziest curly hair and she really needs a condition that works. Nature's Baby Organics Conditioner & Detangler works wonders for her hair! For my hair the Conditioner & Detangler left my hair looking greasy the next morning. I really liked the scent but this product is much better for only my daughter. If you asked my daughter which her favorite product was she would tell you the Aromatherapy Calming Spray. She loves spraying her pillows before going to bed. The lavender scent is so wonderful! As far as the Organic Soothing Stick I truly cannot rave enough about this product! Its so versatile! My daughters cheeks and lips are very dry so I applied this after bath time and it really helped! We've also used it on some of my daughters "booboo's". I love that I was able to put a product on her face and she didn't react to it! Last but not least the Ah-Choo Chest Rub. Another great product by Nature's Baby Company! My dad has actually used this since we've all be so sick here! I used it on my daughter and it was great for helping her breathe better at night! All in all I give Nature's Baby Company a big thumbs up! I will most definitely recommend their products and will continue to use them for my daughter and myself. If you are interested in natural bath & body products or have a child that has sensitive skin I would really encourage you to try Nature's Baby Company.

Tipster Tuesday! Bag & Container Gardening

2009-03-10T23:30:00.002-05:00

I've been giving some thought to starting a garden with my daughter this year. It seems like a great project that I can do with her and the pay off is so good for you! Fresh veggies that you grew! No chemicals! Win win isn't it? I entered a blog giveaway for Burpee's Money Garden and decided that even if I didn't win that this might be a really good route to go. As described on the Burpee website each package contains seeds for 6 different veggies and is capable of producing $650.00 worth of produce- the package costs $10! It says that 1/10 of an acre is needed but since I don't have any ground in our backyard that is suitable for gardening I have decided to go the bag garden route. If you haven't heard of this before don't feel bad! I heard about it for the first time a few months ago in a Mother Earth News article. Basically you buy bags of soil and punch in some drainage holes in the bottom, split the top open and plant your plants or seeds! Sounds pretty easy, huh? I've compiled a list of websites that discuss bag gardening and container gardening in case you decide that growing your own veggies is something you're interested in!

http://localchoicescv.com/2008/10/08/whod-a-thoughtgarbage-bag-gardening/
http://www.motherearthnews.com/Organic-Gardening/2008-06-01/No-Dig-Garden-Beds.aspx
http://winddanncer.today.com/2009/01/14/bag-gardening/
http://www.plantea.com/coffee-bag-container-garden.htm
http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf62353566.tip.html- Feedback & tips from those who bag garden
http://containergardening.about.com/od/containergardening101/ss/flowerpouches_2.htm
http://idigmygarden.com/forums/showthread.php?p=216995
http://www.gardenguides.com/how-to/tipstechniques/containerindoor/container.asp
http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/extension/container/container.html
http://www.containergardeningtips.com/
http://www.bhg.com/gardening/plans/container/container-garden-plans/

Magic Monday Giveaway List Plan It!

2009-03-09T23:40:00.003-05:00

I was given the pleasure of meeting Jennifer the owner of ListPlanIt. The description of lists to put your world in order is no exageration! ListPlanIt has over 350 lists! Right from the website is a great description of what you'll find on ListPlanIt
Find Grocery Lists and Menu Planning in Meal Planning
Holiday and Party Planning in Holidays & Special Occasions
Find Calendars and To Do Lists in Time Management
Back to School Planner and Homework Schedules in Student
Everything you need in one convenient location!

I'm a list person and I'll be the first to admit it. I use a Brain in a Binder and my life is much nicer and accomplished when I use my lists! I'm also a list junkie. I love very other peoples lists and organization schedules so when I started looking through the lists on ListPlanIt I was in heaven! Jennifer has been so kind to offer a Quarterly Membership to one very lucky Savvy SAHM Review reader! If you're a list person this is your lucky day!

For your first entry (this must be completed for any other entries to count)
- Go to ListPlanIt and take a look at the lists. Come back here and tell me what list you think would be the most helpful for you.

Extra Entries:
-how do you think ListPlanIt will help you? Leave a comment. One entry
-Leave your best organization tip. Leave a comment. One entry
-Become a Savvy SAHM Review follower. (no need to leave a comment)
-Add our button to your blog. Leave three comments with a link. 3 entries
-Blog about this giveaway. Leave three comments with a link. 3 entries
-Send an email to 3 friends and CC me at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com for 3 entries
Giveaway runs through midnight CST next Monday March 16. Winner will be announced on March 17. Winner will have 72 hours to get in touch with me or a new winner is chosen. Please make sure you leave an email on your entries or it is accessible on your blog. Good luck!

Winners Wall

2009-03-08T00:03:00.003-06:00

Giveaway winners for this past week!

Walmart gift card winner is:
Doreen from treasuredgiveaways.blogspot.com

Our PalmPalms winners are:
Casey
Christin

I will email all of you but if you see this first please drop an email to savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com with your snail mail addy!

Congrats ladies!

Sarah

Wrapped Up Review Wednesday HoMedics Rechargeable Spinning Pedicure Tool

2009-03-04T22:20:00.002-06:00

One of the perks when you have a blog that does reviews is that you get a lot of products to try out. I love that companies want and trust my opinion! I have found that most of the time when a company cares enough to have a product reviewed they usually have a good product. Makes sense right? I also think that times are tough and we all make purchases and hope for the best. As consumers our voices are heard not by what we say but what we buy. I love reading reviews on websites when its available. It so much more comfortable to spend money on a product when other people have had good luck with it. Today I'm going to do a review on HoMedics Rechargeable Spinning Pedicure Tool. This review is completely my own and in no way has been solicited by the HoMedics brand/company. Let me preface this by saying I have a "thing" about feet. It absolutely makes me crazy to have dry, scaly, icky feet and I don't like it too much on others either! Now I live in Illinois where the weather in winter tends to be not nice. Cold, dry and generally not conducive to having nice smooth feet- especially if you run around barefoot indoors all the time. I saw the HoMedics Rechargeable Spinning Pedicure Tool at a local store and thought the price wasn't too bad and decided to give it a try. I was really keen on the fact that it was rechargeable with several different attachments. I'm a previous PedEgg person and wasn't totally thrilled with that. I brought home the HoMedics Rechargeable Spinning Pedicure Tool and promptly plugged that bad boy in to charge it up. Fast forward to the next day. Since I'd just gotten a spa pedi a few days earlier my feet weren't in horrible shape so I was able to use the finer of the pumice attachments. I was completely impressed! It works like a dream and left my feet completely smooth and soft. What more can you ask for?!!? I actually used the unit on my daughters feet since she's another one who is always barefoot. The unit holds a charge well and the different attachments are all great. Now I must say from the beginning I wish that the attachments could be replaced/reordered but that isn't an option. Once again lets fast forward. This time a month. Out of nowhere my HoMedics Rechargeable Spinning Pedicure Tool will not work at all. The charge light doesn't come on and its dead as can be. I'm so bummed. Now I'm sure that you could say that this is a relatively inexpensive product so what I got what I paid for. Personally I'd like to think that $15 can get you a bit more than a month of a product that wasn't put to hard use! So, if I had to go back and decide whether I would spend this money again on the HoMedics Rechargeable Spinning Pedicure Tool I would have to say "NO". My money is too valuable for me to be throwing it away. If I'm going to purchase something I would rather spend a bit more and have a product that lasts. So there you have it! While this worked wonderfully it didn't work nearly long enough!

Tipster Tuesday!

2009-03-03T21:31:00.002-06:00

I will be the first to admit that I'm relatively new at the whole going green way of life. In some ways I've always been a fan of all natural but as far as making permanent lifestyle changes and researching what is best for my daughter and myself I'm still pretty much a newbie. I'm telling you this so you don't think by any means that I'm a "pro" at this. I also know that for many people that the most daunting thing about going green is that there is so much information and so many things that you can do that it can be a bit overwhelming. The way I've decided to go about this is to pick a few key issues and go about researching that and incorporating changes into my life. It isn't about going all green at once. I'm not even sure that's possible. Its about making positive changes a permanent part of your life. As those changes become habit you can then pick up new changes to work on until they become habit and so on. For me I decided that the two areas I wanted to concentrate on where the items I was putting on my body and my daughters body as well as what we were putting in our bodies. I was horrified to learn that up to 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed into our skin. Our skin is our biggest organ and we need to be careful about the way we treat it. That knowledge led me to trying to eliminate SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and its close relative SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate) from the body products we use. In learning about SLS & SLES and the ways of eliminationg it from your daily regiments I kept on hearing about castile soap. Castile soap is a very mild soap that doesn't contain SLS & SLES. You can even use castile soap as a base to make your own shampoo. Dr. Bronners seems to be one of the most popular castile soaps. From personal experience I can tell you that Dr. Bronners is a very nice liquid castile soap. I use the Baby Mild Liquid for my daughter as her shampoo and body wash. My daughter has INCREDIBLY sensitive skin (I can't even begin to stress how sensitive she is.) and since using the Dr. Bronners Baby Mild Liquid we've had absolutely no problems with her skin whatsoever! For my own use I love the Lavender as an everyday body wash and in the summertime the Peppermint is absolutely incredible! It makes you feel cooler! Can't beat that! I also love the almond scent and use that as a base for many of the cleaning solutions I make.

The next area I'm trying to address for my daughter and myself is what goes into our bodies. The first change I made is that at home my daughter only gets organic milk. I see absolutely no need for her to receive growth hormones or antibiotics in her milk! I'm also trying to switch my daughter off of colors and preservatives as well as high fructose corn syrup. This is proving to be a bit more difficult than eliminating SLS & SLES from our lives. I don't feel as though I've made enough progress to really even write about this yet. In all actuality I would love to hear from parents who have made this changes and any advice they have.

In googling SLS this evening in preparation to write this post I came across an incredibly informative article that I'd like to share with you. You can find this article HERE I must also let you know that I have not tried any of the recommended products.

So, let me know what you think about this post? Am I an alarmist? Is this something you've not heard about? Have you made this changes already? Got any advice?

Magic Monday Winner

2009-03-03T13:22:00.001-06:00

The winner of last weeks Magic Monday Giveaway is:
Whimsical Creations said...
I would like to see handmade toys and clothes for kids.=) melanie
http://melaniescrafts.blogspot.com

Thank you all for your great suggestions! You will see them incorporated into Savvy SAHM Reviews in the very near future!

Sarah

Magic Monday Giveaway

2009-03-02T23:05:00.003-06:00

Well, now that we're back in the groove of things here I'm going to go back to a review/giveaway that was left open. Piggy Paints! That way some of our new readers can get in on this! So here it is word for word! I cannot tell you guys how awesome this product is!!!

Have you ever used one of those products that you instantly fell in love with?!!!? It works wonderfully, its good for you/your child, its eco friendly. All those things are very important to me. Its also very important that my princess gets to act like the princess she is. One of her favorites is getting her nails painted (it might be because I started painting her toe nails at 6 weeks of age!) I've never had a problem with doing her toe nails since she wasn't ever one of those kiddos who stuck her foot anywhere near her mouth. Unfortunately painted toe nails only wasn't enough to satisfy the Princess. This is where my dilemma came in. How could I paint her nails knowing that she would have her fingers near her mouth? I shouldn't have her brush her teeth or have any finger food? Not going to happen. That said I just couldn't get over putting all of those chemicals on her fingers and be ok it with. Drum roll please! Enter Piggy Paint!!! This stuff is amazing! Before I tell you about our trial run with Piggy Paint here is some information about it.Why is Piggy Paint™ Nail Polish the safe nail polish choice for children?Non-toxicOdorlessWater-based formulaHypoallergenicFun, vibrant colorsDries to a hard, durable finishPiggy Paint™ is specially formulated from God’s natural ingredients and dries to a hard, durable finish. There are no toxic chemicals; it’s free of formaldehyde, toluene, phthalates, biphenyl A, ethyl acetate and acetone. Click here to see how our polish compares!How is Piggy Paint™ as “Natural as Mud”?Piggy Paint is as “Natural as Mud” in the sense that every ingredient in the polish is biodegradable with no traces or residues left behind, thus it would make an excellent addition to your mulch pile or as a feed for farm animals.Our water-based nail polish is non-toxic, environmentally safe, hypoallergenic, with an odor that is extremely low, nearly nonexistent. It has the same look and durability performance as traditional kid polishes, but without the drawbacks of foul odors, toxicity, and damage to our environment and to your little ones’ nails.Honestly, does it get any better than that?!!!? Add to it that this nail polish is a pure delight to use and its truly amazing! My daughter has very ridged nails for some unknown reason and nail polish has never adhered well to her nails. The night we test ran Piggy Paint we sat down and put a coat on her fingers and toes. This stuff dries so quickly I was completely amazed! A few minutes later I put on a second coat and again it was super fast to dry. My daughter was thrilled with her matching fingers and toes and I had no guilt over it being on her precious little body! The polish stayed pretty for almost a week! This was the start of our love affair with Piggy Paint.The great folks over at Piggy Paint have given me a 3 pack of Piggy Paint Polishes to share with one incredibly lucky Savvy SAHM Review reader!

First entry (must have this completed for any other entries to be valid)-Go to Piggy Paint and take a look around.
After that leave a comment telling me what prompted Melanie to create Piggy Paints

Extra Entries:
-what is your favorite color Piggy Paint? Leave a comment. One entry
-who is the Piggy Paint for? Leave a comment. One entry
-Become a Savvy SAHM Review follower. (no need to leave a comment)
-Add our button to your blog. Leave a comment with a link. 3 entries
-Blog about this giveaway. Leave a comment with a link. 3 entries
-Send an email to 3 friends and CC me at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com for 3 entries
Giveaway runs through midnight CST next Monday March 9. Winner will be announced on March 10. Winner will have 72 hours to get in touch with me or a new winner is chosen. Please make sure you leave an email on your entries or it is accessible on your blog. Good luck!

Fantastic Friday

2009-02-28T15:04:00.002-06:00

Once again I'm late! There is some serious "ick" going through the house. My daughter has been sick most of the week & now I have it. I went to bed at 7:30 last night....this from the girl who is usually up until at least 1am daily! I spent the morning at Prompt Care & am hoping the meds kick in because I have to take my daughter to the Children's Hospital in St. Louis on Monday. I can let y'all know that I have the next month of giveaways, posts and reviews set up so hopefully it will be smooth sailing! Without further ado here is a HUGE list of blogland giveaways! Good luck and remember you can't win unless you sign up!

The Not-so-blog blog Creamy coconut foaming bath whip giveaway
The Giveaway Bead-a-ful Designs Giveaway
What Mommies Need tiffniftythrifty princess bows
Pretty Pink Momma Princess Fancy Pants Boutique $25 giveaway
Autism Learning Felt Parking Pal Giveaway http://www.parkingpalmagnet.com/
A Frugal Friend Suave basket giveaway
As They Grow Up Desertaholic Basket Giveaway http://www.thatscaring.com/index.php
The Soothie Ranch Tiny Tags Giveaway
http://www.tinytagdesigns.com/
Val’s Views Scanalog Giveaway
The Giveaway Addicted Mom Spa Time Giveaway
http://spatimebaby.com/
Helenes Dreams Squares of Flair Tile giveaway
The Funky Monkey Picaflor coat giveaway
Life as Mom clutch giveaway
Something Snappy Green Path Company T shirt giveaway
Something Snappy Photo Card Creations giveaway
Does Mommy Love It? Revolution Food lunchbox giveaway
Life is Sweet Eleven Shoes Giveaway
http://www.elevencollection.com/
The Mom Nerd Little Dipper bowl giveaway
My 2 Boys Seventh Generation Starter Kit
Simply Stacie Rainbow Swirlz Giveaway
Mama Says Mine 120 coupon giveaway
Mom Fuse Safe Sippy Giveaway
Green Earth Journey Celery Street Address Book Giveaway
Therapeutic Reviews Scensibles Giveaway
DkMommy Spot Happy Aging Face giveaway
Mommies with Cents Real Simple Giveaway
Your Mama Reviews Discovery Paper Recycling Studio & Starbucks giveaway
Eco Office Gals Tilvee Acai Pomegranate Rejuvenating Masque Giveaway
DkMommy Spot Vegan Microwave Cookbook
Writings of a WAHM 18oz Stainless Steel Water Bottle
http://www.thetickletrunk.com/store.php
An Island Review Triple Threat Beauty Giveaway
http://www.fairhavenhealth.com/
http://www.photolagen.com/
http://www.888ageless.com/
An Island Review Raising Free Thinkers
http://www.amazon.com/Raising-Freethinkers-Practical-Parenting-Beyond/dp/0814410960
An Island Life Kix Giveaway
http://www.generalmills.com/corporate/brands/category.aspx?catID=19412&groupID=19412
Jamie’s Precious Peas Chalkydoodle Giveaway
Jamie’s Precious Peas DaBib Giveaway
Jamie’s Precious Peas Atterdag Kids Giveaway
Mama’s Money Savers Jack and Lily Shoe giveaway
Piece of Me My Baby Pajamas Giveaway
Jamie’s Precious Peas For My Kids Giveaway
Give Them Roots Natural Baby Co Wet Bag giveaway
The Giveaway Way Cool Designs giveaway
Green Earth Journey Nuture My Body Giveaway
Yankee Doodle Handy Stamp Giveaway
Jolly Mom Smart Art for Cool Kids giveaway
http://www.smartquotesforkids.com/index.html
Mudpies & Maryjanes Honest Tea Kids Giveaway
Simply Stacie The Makedown Giveaway
Mom Most Traveled Robbert Bobbert and the Bubble Machine Giveaway
http://www.funrise.com/
DkMommy Spot Buddhiwear giveaway
Catch the Drift with Mama Snow Bent Tree Gallery Giveaway
Parents Gear Lily B Magnetic Frame Giveaway
Unmainstream Mom Reads The Terror Giveaway
Green Earth Journey DinnerTimeChimes Giveaway
A Giveaway Addicted Mommy me4kidz Giveaway
The Funky Monkey English Toffee Anytime Giveaway
CouponDivas PrissyPoofs Giveaway
My Moms Views Baby J Jewels Giveaway
Mom Knows it All Show Me the Money Burpee Garden
Our 7 Qtpies Kix Cereal Giveaway
Piece of Me PopATot Giveaway (5)
4 Baby and Mom Kid Safe Ink Giveaway
Bargain Briana Eco Store Giveaway
Frugal, Freebies and Deals $50 Walmart card
Summertime and a glass of Lemonade Create Me Canvas Giveaway
Kendee Watches changeable black bead watch band
Contests and Giveaways from around the web Country Bob’s all purpose giveaway
DkMommy Spot Brookstone Shiatsu Massaging Chair topper

Thrifty Thursday- A giveaway!

2009-02-26T21:56:00.002-06:00

So, I know that the economy in general is a source of conversation and concern among many people. I know personally one of the things I have a hard time budgeting is my food allowance. It shouldn't be too difficult since Princess and I aren't much on breakfast. Some yogurt and we're good to go. On the flip side Princess is a little green eating machine- she loves her fresh fruits and veggies & those aren't cheap! So, I'm looking to y'all for tips on how to do better with menu planning. I also hate making regular recipes since its just the two of us and we wind up eating left overs all week! So, this week my wonderful readers I'm asking for your thrifty kitchen/ menu tips! Each tip you share will count as one entry. Just use a new comment for each one! Next we I will randomly pick a winner and that winner will receive a $20 Walmart card. How does that work for you? I'm looking forward to hearing some great ideas!

Wrapped Up Review Wednesday Palm-Palms Baby Bath Grips Review & Giveaway

2009-02-25T22:30:00.002-06:00

The great folks from Palm-palms baby bath grips sent me a pair of palm-palms to try and a few to give away. How cool is that?!!? When I first saw this product I did one of the many "Man, I wish my princess wasn't so big! Where were these when she was a baby?!!?" Palm-palms remind me of sweat bands in a way but they have a thumb hole incorporated in them and they are super soft! Not only do they make it easier to hold on to that precious little bundle that becomes slick as all get out once you add water but they can also be used to lather up said slippery one! Seriously, isn't that the coolest idea? Since my daughter is a bit too big for me to give them an accurate testing I sent a pair over to my sister to try out on my nephew who is just a bit over a year old. As it turned out my brother in law is the person who is mainly in charge of bath time at their house so he gave them a whirl. My bil reported that they were just a bit snug. Now please don't be at all concerned by that assessment. Did I mention that my bil is a giant among men at 6'8"? He has hands and feet that resemble small boats so I think palm-palms would have no problem fitting a "normal" (sorry Larry!) sized person! That said he thought the palm-palms definitely added a bit of grip and liked that aspect. All in all palm-palms were a winner! Oh, I forgot, they're also machine washable! I definitely plan on getting palm-palms for any new mommies I know of! Its definitely in my top 5 list of great items to own! As I said the great people at palm-palms have sent two extra pairs for me to give away. One white set and one pink set.

So how do you win a pair of palm-palms baby bath grips? Go to the Palm-palms site and look around
Come back here & comment on what color palm-palms you would like
Told you it'd be easy! Want some extra chances? OK!
-Follow this blog. No need to leave a comment. Followers are entered in every giveaway!
-Add my button to your blog. Leave a link and a comment. 1 extra chance
-Blog about this giveaway. Leave a link and a comment. 1 extra chance
-Email 3 friends and cc me (savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com) for 3 extra chances

Winners will be picked March 4 and will have 3 days to claim their prize. If the prize is not claimed in 3 days a new winner is drawn. Please make sure you leave your email address on all comments or that it is found on your profile.

What's your carbon footprint?

2009-02-24T21:14:00.003-06:00

Today's post is going to be short and sweet and hopefully an eyeopener! In light of Energy being President Obama's three main areas of concern I thought that it would be a good time to check out your carbon footprint. You can go HERE for a great site that will calculate your carbon footprint.

-What is your carbon footprint?
-Are you surprised by what your carbon footprint is? (too high? lower than you thought?)
-Do you have a short term, mid range and long term plan to lower your carbon footprint?

Leave a comment and let us know!

Giveaway reminder! Go to this weeks Magic Monday listing and leave a comment(s) with any suggestions that you would like to see covered on this blog and you might win a $20 Starbucks gift card!

Special Edition of Fantastic Friday blog giveaways!

2009-02-23T18:40:00.001-06:00

Since I've been out of commission due to my recent hospital time I've decided to hook y'all up with a special edition of Fantastic Friday! Have fun entering these contests! Remember if you don't enter you can't win!

If only I had superpowers Safe Volume Headphone Giveaway
Does Mommy Love It? Country Bob’s Sauce giveaway
Does Mommy Love It? Everyone is Beautiful by Katherine Center Giveaway
She Became a Butterfly Diamond Swallows Necklace Giveaway
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5931235
Creating with Vintage Flair Spring Makeup bag giveaway
Mommies With Cents pHisoderm Baby Gel giveaway
Frugal Mommy of 2 Girls Oka B Shoes giveaway
Piece of ME Wild Dill Giveaway
Carp(e) Libris Review Down to a Sunless Sea by Mathias B. Freese - Book Giveaway
Berries and Cream All You Subscription
Summertime and a Glass of Lemonade Jessica Van Neste Jewelry Giveaway
Bargain Briana Family Movie Night Giveaway
Jolly Mom You can Make this $50 giveaway
http://www.youcanmakethis.com/
Riding with No Hands Reviews He’s just not that into CD & Hoodie giveaway
The Funky Monkey Nest Handbags Giveaway
Simply Stacie Madwomen Perfume Lab Giveaway
The Mom Buzz Doddlebug Dezigns $25 giveaway
http://stores.doodlebugdezigns.com/StoreFront.bok

Jolly Mom jaC jewelry giveaway
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5729098
A Wrestling Addicted Mommy Fiber Gourmet Sampler giveaway
An Ordinary Life Pizza Hut Lasagna Dinner Giveaway
Piece of Me Neat Solutions Giveaway?
DkMommy Spot Wonder ball complete laundry system giveaway
Therapeutic Reviews & Giveaways Cetaphil Moisturizer giveaway
The Funky Monkey Pickled Tink Giveaway
Look What Mom Found Flip and tumple 24/7 bag giveaway
http://www.stubbypencilstudio.com/upgrade/index.htm
Babies Gotta Have it Yanni Voices CD Giveaway
My Trendy Tykes Pizza Hut Lasagna Giveaway
My Moms View Madi Couture $50 giveaway
My Sentiment Exact Lee Smart Shopper Giveaway
A Pysch Mommy Bummas Giveaways
Green Earth Journey Bee Hive Giveaway
Mommy Enterprises Carolyn’s Kitchen Apron giveaway
http://www.carolynskitchenonline.com/
A Giveaway Addicted Mommy Fresh baby food set giveaway
http://freshbaby.com/

A Giveaway Addicted Mommy Sleepsolution giveaway
The Give-away Diva Galit Etsy shop heart necklace giveaway
Frugal RI Mama Kix Cereal Giveaway
SAHM Reviews Personlized Fruit Roll up giveaway
Rockin Mama No more pet hair giveaway
Rockin Mama Neat Solution Potty Topper Giveaway
3 Garnets & 2 Sapphires Kix Cereal Giveaway
Mommatudes Just Ice Hammered Silver earrings giveaway
The Laughs will go on Faithworks Boutique giveaway
http://www.faithworksboutique.com/index.htm
Simply Stacie Kill for Me by Karen Rose giveaway
Simply Stacie She Essential Beauty giveaway
4 Baby and Mom Slanket giveaway
Inside Out Haute Lunch Giveaway
4 Baby and Mom CD giveaway
Sage and Savvy the Giving Essence Lip Balm giveaway
http://thegivingessence.com/

Magic Monday Giveaway

2009-02-23T16:13:00.004-06:00

CLOSED!
The Winner is:
Whimsical Creations said...
I would like to see handmade toys and clothes for kids.=) melaniehttp://melaniescrafts.blogspot.com

This one is going to be so easy! Leave a comment with a contest or topic you would like to see featured here on Savvy SAHM Reviews! Unlimited entries! Contest ends next Monday. Winner receives a $20 Starbucks giftcard! I figure I need a hit of caffeine to get back into the groove of things and want to share! Have fun & suggest away!

Fantastic Friday

2009-02-20T23:35:00.003-06:00

IT'S BACK!!!! Thanks for your patience with me & the blog! Barring any health issues for me and my daughter it will be smooth sailing! Here is a Fantastic Friday listing (I'll also try to do some more over the weekend for you!)

The Giveaway Diva Set of Handmade Cards
Glitterful Felt Stories Finger Food is Fun Music Giveaway h
Green Earth Journey Honeybee Gardens Lip Balm & eyeliner giveaway
It’s a Wonderful Life Pencil Sketch Giveaway
Little Window Shoppe Apron giveaway
Mudpies & Maryjanes Keurig Giveaway
As they Grow Miso Mayo Giveaway
http://www.misomayo.com/index.html
Life Staring Ellie & Eve Playhut Megaland giveaway
As They Grow Up Peek A Boob Giveaway
http://www.peekaboobstrips.com/index.html
Seriously Spoiled Chalk Mat/Place Mat giveaway
MommaFindings Vicks Fever InSight Comfort Thermometer giveaway
Eighty MPH Mom Tucker bag giveaway
My Trendy Tykes Parenting By Nature $50 giveaway
The Apron Goddess Apron Pattern Book giveaway
My Trendy Tykes Royal Rugrat Giveaway
The Funky Monkey Kids Personalized Bookstore Giveaway
Sage and Savvy Scanalog Giveaway
http://www.scanalog.com/main.html

The Giveaway 144 Collection Giveaway
The Funky Monkey Rosa’s Fudge giveaway
The Not so Blog Blog Chic Buds giveaway
What Mommies Need Chic Buds giveaway

Sorry! Please shoot AT&T!

2009-02-13T22:26:00.001-06:00

Sorry for the absence! My DSL was having issues and I couldn't log on most of the week. The tech FINALLY came here today and 2.5 hours later I know have my internet back. I could have hugged the tech! Since I haven't been online I really dont have much for Fantastic Friday but I'll try to get something up this weekend for you. I will also pick the Piggy Paint winner!

Fantastic Friday

2009-02-06T23:32:00.002-06:00

Ok...here is a list of some great giveaways! Have fun and remember you can't win if you don't enter!

Mudpies & Maryjanes Better Bit of Butter Valentine Cookie giveaway
Jolly Mom Jump Snap Ropeless Jumprope Giveaway
Go Grahm Go Crave Body Shop Giveaway
Jolly Mom colorOn Professionals Eye Envy Disposable Eye Shadow Kits
http://www.coloronpro.com/
The Bon Bon Gazette Jump Start World Giveaway
Funky Monkey Paper Fun gift boxes
Grab Bag Reviews Smart Shopper Giveaway
Frugal Mommy of 2 girls Owen & Emma Bows Giveaway
Grocery Price Blog She’s Crafty Giveaway
Grocery Price Blog Chic Ear Buds Giveaways
Peanut Butter & Pickle Reviews Sambucol Giveaway
Momfuse Dapple Kid Safe cleaning products
Coupon Mommie….lots of coupons!
Babies Gotta Have it Braun thermometer giveaway
Life is Sweet Reviews He’s Just not that into Hoodie & Soundtrack
Moomette’s Magnificents Reviews Welch’s Aquajuice Giveaway
Sage and Savvy Child to Cherish Giveaway
Piece of Me Tiny Tags necklace giveaway
alentines.html
The Shopping Mama Kissing Kumquats Skirt Giveaway
Simply Stacie Rebecca’s Soap Delicatessen Giveaway
A Nut in a Nutshell He’s just not that into you Hoodie & CD giveaway
Bargain Brianna Swanson Chicken Coupon giveaway A working blogging Mommy personalized fruit roll ups giveaway

Wrapped Up Review Wednesday

2009-02-04T22:12:00.002-06:00

Have you ever used one of those products that you instantly fell in love with?!!!? It works wonderfully, its good for you/your child, its eco friendly. All those things are very important to me. Its also very important that my princess gets to act like the princess she is. One of her favorites is getting her nails painted (it might be because I started painting her toe nails at 6 weeks of age!) I've never had a problem with doing her toe nails since she wasn't ever one of those kiddos who stuck her foot anywhere near her mouth. Unfortunately painted toe nails only wasn't enough to satisfy the Princess. This is where my dilemma came in. How could I paint her nails knowing that she would have her fingers near her mouth? I shouldn't have her brush her teeth or have any finger food? Not going to happen. That said I just couldn't get over putting all of those chemicals on her fingers and be ok it with. Drum roll please! Enter Piggy Paint!!! This stuff is amazing! Before I tell you about our trial run with Piggy Paint here is some information about it.

Why is Piggy Paint™ Nail Polish the safe nail polish choice for children?

Non-toxic
Odorless
Water-based formula
Hypoallergenic
Fun, vibrant colors
Dries to a hard, durable finish
Piggy Paint™ is specially formulated from God’s natural ingredients and dries to a hard, durable finish. There are no toxic chemicals; it’s free of formaldehyde, toluene, phthalates, biphenyl A, ethyl acetate and acetone. Click here to see how our polish compares!

How is Piggy Paint™ as “Natural as Mud”?
Piggy Paint is as “Natural as Mud” in the sense that every ingredient in the polish is biodegradable with no traces or residues left behind, thus it would make an excellent addition to your mulch pile or as a feed for farm animals.

Our water-based nail polish is non-toxic, environmentally safe, hypoallergenic, with an odor that is extremely low, nearly nonexistent. It has the same look and durability performance as traditional kid polishes, but without the drawbacks of foul odors, toxicity, and damage to our environment and to your little ones’ nails.

Honestly, does it get any better than that?!!!? Add to it that this nail polish is a pure delight to use and its truly amazing! My daughter has very ridged nails for some unknown reason and nail polish has never adhered well to her nails. The night we test ran Piggy Paint we sat down and put a coat on her fingers and toes. This stuff dries so quickly I was completely amazed! A few minutes later I put on a second coat and again it was super fast to dry. My daughter was thrilled with her matching fingers and toes and I had no guilt over it being on her precious little body! The polish stayed pretty for almost a week! This was the start of our love affair with Piggy Paint.

The great folks over at Piggy Paint have given me a 3 pack of Piggy Paint Polishes to share with one incredibly lucky Savvy SAHM Review reader!

First entry (must have this completed for any other entries to be valid)
-Go to Piggy Paint and take a look around. After that send an email to savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com telling me what prompted Melanie to create Piggy Paints

Extra Entries:
-what is your favorite color Piggy Paint? Leave a comment. One entry
-who is the Piggy Paint for? Leave a comment. One entry
-Become a Savvy SAHM Review follower. (no need to leave a comment)
-Add our button to your blog. Leave a comment with a link. 3 entries
-Blog about this giveaway. Leave a comment with a link. 3 entries
-Enter our Jensen Beach Beads giveaway. Leave a comment. 3 entries
-Send an email to 3 friends and CC me at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com for 3 entries

Giveaway runs through midnight CST next Wed. Feb 11. Winner will be announced on Feb 12. Winner will have 72 hours to get in touch with me or a new winner is chosen. Please make sure you leave an email on your entries or it is accessible on your blog.

Magic Monday

2009-02-02T11:34:00.002-06:00

I really think y'all are going to love this weeks Magic Monday giveaway! Nancy from Jensen Beach Beads at Etsy is giving one very lucky Savvy SAHM Review reader a $25 gift certificate to her store! With Valentine's Day fast approaching this is a perfect way for you to spoil yourself a bit! Nancy's work is gorgeous! Head over to her etsy shop and take a peek!

In addition to this weeks Magic Monday Giveaway $25 gift certificate Nancy is being so generous to offer EVERY Savvy SAHM Review Reader that purchases from her $10 off their order! How cool is that? Since I know that got your attention here is the link for Jensen Beach Beads again!

So how do you win the $25 gift certificate to Jensen Beach Beads?
Its so easy! Go to Jensen Beach Beads and take a look around. Come back here and leave a comment with your favorite item. Yep, its that easy! That is a must for any bonus entries to count! You have to do this one!

Bonus Entries:
-Follow this blog (no need to leave a comment. Every Savvy SAHM Review Reader follower is entered in every giveaway automatically)
-Blog about this giveaway Leave 3 comments with a link
-Buy something from Jensen Beach Beads and leave 10 comments (will be verified) Let Nancy know you're a Savvy SAHM Review reader for your discount
-Email 3 friends about this giveaway and CC me at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com

Giveaway ends Feb. 9th at midnight CST and winner will be announced on Feb. 10th. Winner will have 4 days to respond or a new winner is chosen.

Skoy Cloth Winner....

2009-02-02T10:48:00.001-06:00

The winner of the Skoy Cloth package is......

A Psych Review!

Congrats! Please send an email with your address to:
savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com so I can get your package out to you!

Congrats!
Sarah

Fantastic Friday

2009-01-30T23:40:00.002-06:00

This week we're not having our usual Fantastic Friday listing. I've been having some health issues this week so I haven't been scoping out all the giveaways. Instead I do have just ONE INCREDIBLY AWESOME giveaway for you to check out! The winner is picked Feb. 1 so please check it out soon!

Baby Blvd is having a giveaway with 3 (yes 3 prizes) so please head over to Baby Blvd!

Have a great weekend!

Magic Monday Winner!

2009-01-27T22:32:00.001-06:00

The winner for last weeks Magic Monday contest is:
andyb

Please send an email to savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com

Congrats!
Sarah

Wrapped Up Review Wednesday Better Life Winners

2009-01-27T22:25:00.003-06:00

Since I'm already very late in posting this the winners for the Better Life cleaning sets are:

teamhartnett@hotmail.com
and Angie Commancho who CC'd me on a mail to her friends

Congrats ladies!!!! I'll be in touch soon to get your information!

Sarah

Fantastic Friday

2009-01-23T13:43:00.002-06:00

Here is this weeks listing of blog giveaways!

Riding with No Hands Tiny Prints Giveaway
Riding with No Hands Fodeo giveaway
Funky Monkey Little Missmatched Giveaway
Rundpinne Bazil Essentials Giveaway
Funky Monkey Cloud B giveaway
http://susannahbananaboutique.blogspot.com/2009/01/cloud-b.html
A Wrestling Addicted Mommy Paper Shouts Giveaway
Cool Baby Kid Bella Tunno Giveaway
Little Window Shoppe Super Hero Cape Giveaway from Plum Pear Apple
Funky Monkey So Cozy Hair products giveaway
Cutting Coupons in KC All You subscription giveaway
Chief Family Officer Curious George and the Hot Air Balloon w/ read along CD giveaway
http://athomewithbooks.blogspot.com/2009/01/change-your-life-challenge-seminar-and.html
Funky Monkey Wett Giggles Giveaway
Jamie’s Precious Peas Infusion Jar Giveaway
Buy By Mom Cookie Boutique giveaway
http://cookie-boutique.com/default.aspx
Extraordinary Mothers Keurig Giveaway
A Wrestling Addicted Mommy Juicer Giveaway
http://lyricandariasmom.blogspot.com/2009/01/healthier-living.html

Coupon Divas CocoZen Giveaway
dkMommy Spot Hamadi Giveaway
Funky Monkey Jillie Willie bottom zipper giveaway
A Little Bliss Lauren & Co clippie giveaway
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6706705
Green Earth Journey Jennifer Joy creative coin purse giveaway
Frugal Mommy of 2 Girls digital keychain
Mudpies & MaryJanes Teenie Weenie Greenie Sippy Giveaway
Frugal Freebies Smashies Applesauce giveaway
A Nut in a Nutshell Personalized Fruit Rollups giveaway
Savin Some Family Organizer Giveaway
Peanut Butter & Pickle Review Honest Kids Drink Pouches
http://wealthymiser.com/contests/jan-09-spread-the-love.htm
Peanut Butter & Pickle Review Terracycle Tote giveaway
Frugal mommy of 2 girls Photo Book Creator giveaway
The Soothie Ranch National Security Mom book giveaway
Therapeutic Reviews & Giveaways $50 Magnet Street Baby Giveaway
Does Mommy Love it No Snow Snuggler Giveaway

Remember you can't win if you don't sign up!
Sarah

Wrapped Up Review Wednesday Skoy Cloth Giveaway

2009-01-21T22:06:00.004-06:00

As we come close to the end of the Better living giveaway I decided to keep up with the green cleaning theme for my reviews. I was sent a sample of Skoy Cloths from Michelle at http://www.skoycloth.com/. Here is a description straight from the Skoy website:

SKOY cloth is a ...
100% biodegradable
Absorbent
Re-usable
European-made
Clean
And Fun…
Multi-use cloth

The SKOY cloth is a fabulous, absorbent, biodegradable and natural multi-use cloth. Our re-usable earth friendly cloth is perfect in your kitchen, bathroom, and on most surface areas in your home or office. SKOY cloth can be used in place of your sponge, wash cloth or paper towels.
It is a European made product and 100% biodegradable because it is made from a natural cotton and wood-based cellulose pulp. SKOY cloth is a chlorine-free product using water-based colors and inks. After an independent composting test, SKOY cloth broke down completely within 5 weeks.
The SKOY cloth is a durable product due to the reusability factor and can last months. Using a SKOY cloth is equivalent to using 15 rolls of paper towels in an average home. With the high cost of paper towels, at least $2 a roll, SKOY cloth is the obvious choice for your wallet and the environment.
The SKOY cloth has an absorption factor of 15x its own weight. As a result, producing the most superior cloth product available. Imagine using 15 sheets of good-quality paper towels at once… This is how a wet SKOY cloth will feel in your hand.
The SKOY cloth is long-lasting because of the wash ability feature. It dries quickly, so it is not a breeding ground for bacteria. Have you ever used your sponge, then smelled your hand and it reeked of horrible bacteria? That will never happen again if you microwave your SKOY cloth regularly. It is also dishwasher and washer/dryer safe. Cleaning your SKOY cloth will keep it healthy and germ-free. Please see Use & Care for instructions.
The cool and unique designs will make cleaning fun! SKOY Enterprises plans to launch new designs in early 2008.

After using Skoy cloths during cleaning around my house I have to say that I'm completely in love with them! They are incredibly absorbent, wash very well and don't leave little bits of lint. I've been keeping one by my kitchen sink and using the other for cleaning the bathrooms. Everything that Skoy Cloth advertises on their home page is true! They dry very quickly so you don't have that damp ick smell, they are super absorbent and they're great for the planet and your pocketbook! Honestly, does it get any better than that? You can order Skoy cloths from the Skoy website and they even offer a subscription option that has free shipping! Once again, does it get any better?!!?

Now for those of you who are relatively new to the green cleaning movement perhaps you aren't sure of some of the reasons that green cleaning is a much better healthier way to clean. A quick crash course here! (If you'd like more information feel free to use the contact button to email me and I'll point you in the right direction!) First and foremost the best reason to use green cleaning supplies is that there aren't any negative side/health affects. The HUGE majority of cleaning agents used in the US are not tested or regulated in any way. Do you really want to be cleaning your house with something that you have to use in a well ventilated area? For most things you can a very comparable cleaning solution using a combination of water, vinegar, baking soda & essential oils. Nothing in that is going to hurt you! If making your own solutions isn't your thing you have great companies life Better Life that offers incredible green cleaning supplies that are already made! One of the things I've noticed since I've been doing exclusive green cleaning in my house is that I LIKE cleaning (at least more than I did before!). I know that I'm not harming myself, my daughter or the planet. I know that I'm teaching my daughter to respect the earth and all of that makes for a happy self!

Now back to Skoy Cloths. I've already told you how well they work. Lets discuss the environmental impact. I don't know if I could ever completely give up the use of paper towels but having Skoy Cloths on hand certainly makes it much much easier to reduce my paper towel usage. In all actuality the Skoy Cloths are nicer because they are thicker and you don't worry about them tearing. All in all they're a great product to have in your home! So now that I've got you all excited about Skoy Cloths I figure I should give you a chance to try them for yourself! One lucky Savvy SAHM Review Reader is going to be the lucky recipient of a 4 pack of Skoy Cloths!

How to win?
-Go to Skoy Cloths website and take a look around. Come back here and leave a comment where you think you would use Skoy Cloths the most! Honestly, that it! Its that easy!

Extra Chances to win
-Grab the Savvy SAHM Review Blog button and display it on your blog. Leave a comment and a link! 1 extra chance
-Blog about this giveaway. Leave a comment and a link 1 extra chance
-Become a follower. Every SSR follower is entered into every giveaway that we have (no need to leave a comment!)
-Email 3 friends about Skoy Cloths and/or this giveaway. CC me in the email at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com Worth 2 extra chances
-Buy Skoy Cloths from http://www.skoycloth.com/ and let them know you heard about them here! 10 extra chances!

This giveaway will end January 28th at midnight CST. The winner will be posted on Thursday the 29th. Please make sure you leave an email with your comments or that I can email you from your blog. Winner has 3 days to respond after that a new winner is chosen.

Magic Monday

2009-01-19T23:13:00.003-06:00

Recently, I had the great pleasure of meeting the owner of Masterpieces of Fun Art, Simone, who makes really great hair accessories for little girls. Simone sent me a sampler of her hair accessories to try out on my princess and I have to let you know we had fun! The bows are darling and very well made. Simone carries a very full inventory of hair accessories for little girls. From snap clips for the newborn and clippies for toddlers Masterpieces of Fun Art really takes your princess into consideration. Simone is offering a great sampler set of 5 clippies for a very lucky Savvy SAHM Review reader! Take a peek!

So, just how do you go about winning this gorgeous sampler set?
Go over to Masterpieces of Fun Art and take a look around! Come back here & leave a comment about what item you like the most. Its just that easy!

Want a few extra chances? OK!
-Who would you want these great bows for? Leave an comment. 1 chance
-Grab our button and post it on your blog. Leave a comment and a link. 2 extra chances? Leave a comment.
-Become a follower of the blog. Every follower is entered into every giveaway we have!
-Blog about this giveaway on your blog. Comment with a link. 2 extra chances
-If you purchase from Masterpieces of Fun Art before midnight CST next Monday Jan. 26th you receive 5 extra chances. Just let Simone know that you're a SSR reader!

The nitty gritty rules
-Winner will be announced Tuesday the 27th. Please make sure that you leave an email address with your comments or you have a link on your blog so I have a way to get in touch with you if you're our lucky winner! Winner has 3 days to respond or a new winner will be picked.

Also don't forget about the Better Life cleaning giveaway that ends this Wednesday. Check it out HERE

Fantastic Friday

2009-01-16T14:08:00.001-06:00

Another pretty good list this week. One thing I noticed is that I have several of these sponsors lined up for giveaways here. Drop a comment and let me know if you think you know which ones or what you'd like them to be!

Eisbaerentraume Blog Candy
Peanut Butter & Pickle Baby Banz Giveaway
The Laughs Will Go On Minky Pillowcase giveaway
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6166393
Piece of Me Miss Gina Designs burp cloth giveaway
Blessings Abound Chic Buds giveaway
Frugal Mommy of 2 Girls Hannah TuTus Gift Certificate
Simply Stacie Birth Chart Giveaway
Mom Most Traveled Goosie Card Giveaway
http://www.goosiecards.com/
Skimbaco Pepsi Superbowl Giveaway
The Funky Monkey Journal Buddies Giveaway
Cara’s Coffee Break Cleaning Giveaway
Jamie’s Precious Peas Elizabeths Attic tote bag giveaway
Peanut Butter & Pickles Reviews Satin Lips Giveaway
Ladybug Soup Kiss My Face Giveaway
http://www.kissmyface.com/index.html
Mom’s Most Wanted The Problem with Women…Is Men Giveaway
Katydid and Kid Crazy Baby Clothing Co Giveaway
Northwest Mom Finds Hats for Every Head Monkey Hat giveaway
Northwest Mom Finds Soothe those Dry Hands Giveaway

Sandier Pastures Earthlust giveaway
http://www.earthlust.com/products.html
Thrifty & Chic Mom Fashion Refined Giveaway
dkMommy Spot Meatless Meals for Working People Giveaway
Grocery Price Blog Days Ago Giveaway
Wii Fit Families Tasty Baker Giveaway
Momma Findings Smart E Bear Giveaway
http://www.smartebear.com/
The Mud Bug Tiny Prints Giveaway
http://www.tinyprints.com/
All because 2 people fell in love Vaseline Clinical Therapy Lotion giveaway
The Funky Monkey Skoy Cloth Giveaway
Frugal Mommy of 2 girls Chalk Mat giveaway
The Funky Monkey Mayfair Lane Giveaway
Once Upon A Coupon Haircare & Skincare Coupon Giveaway
Grab bag Reviews Palm Palms Giveaway
Mother 2 Mother Satin Pillowcase giveaway
The Soothie Ranch Bug & Pickle $50 Giveaway
At Home with Books Love and Other Natural Disasters Giveaway
Babies Gotta Have it BabyBanz Giveaway
The Funky Monkey Smock stationery giveaway
The Mud Bug Piggy Paint Giveaway
http://www.piggypaint.com/
The Funky Monkey Photomakingjewelry.com giveaway
The Funky Monkey Piggy Paint Giveaway
Jamie’s Precious Peas Piggy Paint Giveaway

Have fun & remember you can't win if you don't enter!

Wrapped Up Review Wednesday Better Life

2009-01-14T21:54:00.002-06:00

Today I'm going to share with you my take on Better Life Cleaning Products. I am one of those moms who has been becoming increasing dismayed by the products that were being used for cleaning...our homes, our bodies. It started with my microbiology class and just snowballed. Truly a little information can be a very scary thing. Skin is your biggest organ and it absorbs things readily. Then you can start reading about the chemicals in our cleaning products and how they can harm you let alone the little people running around your house who depending on their age might not have their central nervous system fully developed yet and its scary! For awhile my sister & I have been making our own cleaning agents. Its very easy to go online and find a lot of different recipes for cleaning solutions and usually its a lot more economical to make your own. You can customize them to your liking...a definite plus! Now that said, it can also be a drag trying to motivate yourself to whip up a batch of toilet cleaner. Enter Better Life! I was the lucky recipient of what-EVER! all purpose cleaner, I can see clearly- WOW! glass cleaner, Floored floor cleaner and Even the Kitchen Sink scrub cleaner. I honestly went into this thinking I can make it just as well as better so why should I spend the money on this? Well, frankly because it is better than what I was making! This stuff rocks! I love that most of the items are not scented- great for someone who is asmathic like me! and what is scented is done with essential oils and isn't overwhelming! The glass cleaner works so well that I almost couldn't believe it! My 5 year old things that one of her jobs in life is to "paint" on the bathroom mirror using water and occasionally tooth paste. Needless to say the mirror gets DIRTY! I sprayed I can see clearly-Wow on there and wiped it with a paper towel (I know...not really green but my Skoy Clothes were in the laundry). It only took one time to get the mirror sparkling clean! No spots and not a lot of elbow grease was needed! I then sprayed down the toilet, sink, counter and bathtub with what-EVER! I'm so happy to say the results were the same for that! Fast, thorough cleaning! Even the uck under the soap came off very quickly! I used Even the Kitchen Sink scrub for the sink and once again fell in love! It got the gross nasty stuff off of the drain. You know that stuff that you either have to really scrub or use something totally toxic like LimeAway on? This dug right through it with a couple of scrubs and it was back to shiny. Without something that would harm anyone! I can honestly recommend Better Life cleaning products. I know that I will continue to use them!

So, now for the really cool part! I have two sets of Better Life Cleaning Products (what-EVER, Even the Kitchen Sink, Floored, I can see clearly- WOW!) to give to TWO lucky Savvy SAHM Review readers! Here's how to enter to win one of the sets!
-go to Better Life
take a look around & tell me which product you would like to try and why (1 chance)
- go to Better Life and come back here and comment about something you didn't know! (1 chance)
-become a follower (no need to leave a comment) (1 chance)
-add my button to your blog (leave a comment & link) (1 chance)
-share your favorite green cleaning tip (1 chance)
-blog about this. leave a comment & link (1 chance)

Winners will be picked next Wed. Jan 21. and announced on Thursday. Please make sure you leave a way to get a hold of you!

PakNak Charm Giveaway Winners!

2009-01-14T21:50:00.002-06:00

OK...you guys aren't making this easy on me are you? Two of the winners don't have blogs so I hope you're checking here! The three winners of the PakNaks are:
Bhav
Susan (comment #6)
http://momforeverandever.blogspot.com/

Please send an email to savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com with your mailing address as well as your 2 choices for PakNaks and I will in turn get the info to PakNaks. Congrats ladies!

Fantastic Friday

2009-01-09T22:14:00.002-06:00

Ok....hopefully I've made up for last weeks kind of sad listing of blog giveaways! Check out this weeks!!!

Happy Healthy Families Jetta & the Jellybeans signed CD

Frugal RI Mama $10 CVS Card giveaway

At Home With Books Sunday’s at Tiffany’s Patterson giveaway

Dore’s Diaries By the Book Caring for my Kid

Rave and Review So Easy Baby Food Kit Giveaway!

Learning by Living Flip Chart Giveaway

Piece of Me Pro Mom Couture Shirt Giveaway

dkMommy Spot Vegetarian Journal Subscription Giveaway

Grab Bag Reviews Justin Roberts Pop Fly CD giveaway

The Funky Monkey Home Studio pendant giveaway

Thereapeautic Giveaways Label Daddy Giveaway

How to Studio $20 giftcard giveaway

Frugal Mommy of 2 girls Fruitabu Giveaway

Thrifty & Chic Mom Itsy Bitsy Bracelet giveaway

The Funky Monkey Snack & Play Giveaway

My Organized Chaos Organically Hatched Giveaway

The Funky Monkey Clean Well Giveaway

Designs by Vanessa Fabulous Handbag Giveaway

Therapeutic Reviews & Giveaways Birthday in a Box Giveaway

Frugal Mommy of 2 Girls Sambucol giveaway

The Funky Monkey Emerson Creek Pottery Giveaway

Good for the kids Safe Sippy Cup & $50 giveaway

Sweet N Sassy Girls FlabULess Giveaway
http://flabulessu.com/index.html

Jamie’s Precious Pea’s Snuggle Bug Baby Boutique Disney Giveaway

Blah-Zay Amazon Giveaway

5 minutes for Mom $200 Task2Gather giveaway

Jamie’s Precious Peas Tenna Ball Disney Celebration giveaway

The Funky Monkey Organize with Sandy Giveaway

Frugal Mommy of 2 Girls Spoiled Diva Giveaway

Mudpies & Mary Janes GloMate Giveaway

5 Minutes for Giveaways Baby Dipper Bowl

Mommy Finds Go Fish CD giveaway

Piece of Me Carolyn’s Kitchen Apron Giveaway

Frugal Mommy of 2 Girls Cosmedicine Giveaway

Autism Learning Felt Giveaway Indigo Ocean Dreams Audio CD
http://skyyogastudio.com/

For the Love of Baby Warm Me Mouse Giveaway
http://www.warmmouse.com/

Mom’s Most Wanted Twinkling Tees $25 giveaway

Prairie Mama All About the Sponsors ebook Giveaway

The Funky Monkey Cricket & Monkey Giveaway

Mommies With Cents My Daily Veggies Giveaways

The Funky Monkey Safe Sippy Giveaway

The Funky Monkey Casbah Kitten Giveaway

A Wrestling Addicted Mommy Vaseline Clinical Therapy Lotion Giveaway

Blessings Abound Kaboost Giveaway

Mom Fuse Lunch Box card giveaway

Mommies With Cents Balance Water for Kids giveaway

The Funky Monkey Doll Moses Basket

Katydid and Kid Green Party Goods Bday hat giveaway

Mogul Baby Bugalug Gift Basket Giveaway

Katydid and Kid A Life Well Read Giveaway

Faith Approved Think and Make it Happen Book Giveaway

Katydid and Kid Wild Dill Helicopter giveaway

The Funky Monkey Tiny Tags giveaway

Brimful Curiousities Get ready for Kindergarten

Frugal Mommy of 2 girls Laptop Lunch Giveaway

Mudpies & Mary Janes Good for the kids giveaway

Some of these are ending soon so you may want to check them out as soon as possible! Enjoy & let me know if you win!!! Good luck!

Sarah

Tipster Tuesday

2009-01-06T20:34:00.003-06:00

This weeks Tipster Tuesday isn't has much a tip as it is a time to reflect on what you'd like to pare down on and what are things that you simply don't feel that you can reduce. The beginning of the year is a wonderful time to do a bit of self reflection and decide where you'd like to travel in the new year, isn't it?

Just a few things to think about!

-When you are stressed in life its usually rooted in just a few main areas. Money, partner, family life, lack of time
Usually we keep most of our balls in the air and do a good job of it but it seems as there is always one or two of those balls that seems to slip by us. Sometimes we don't even realize its the same issue that keeps on rubbing us the wrong way. Spending a bit of time identifying the burr in our saddle can give us the opportunity to get rid of it!

-Do you journal? I know that when I first entered the world of blogging it was a bit like journaling for me (not this blog of course!). It gives you an opportunity to write, vent or share. Whether you choose to journal via a blog, a journal or whatever method works best for you its a very healthy way to keep a finger on how you're feeling about things in your world. Are you happy, sad, stressed, depressed, exuberant, curious? You can track trends and make your own honey do list

-Most importantly don't take on too much at one time or put yourself in a position of feeling like a failure if you don't do X. Set reasonable goals. Its wonderful if you want to loose 100 lbs. but don't have that be the goal. Instead look into healthy lifestyle changes and tracking your weekly weight loss. Don't say I need to keep better track of my money and vow to never to spend "unnecessary" money again. First of all what is unnecessary? On most days I can say that Starbucks in an unnecessary expense but on a day when I've only had 4 hours of sleep & have to take my dd to the Dr for a test...I need my caffeine please! Maybe the better idea is giving yourself envelope money for the week. Once its gone its gone so choose wisely!

-Instead of resolutions per se pick a few things that you would like to learn, change or do in this year. Then plot out exactly what you would like as an end result and what it will take to get there. Once you have an idea of what your steps are you can work on it a bit every day. It takes approximately 21 days to make something a habit. If you do a little something each day for 3 weeks you're well on your way to accomplishing a goal....without feeling the pressure of the dreaded resolution!

So here is to all of us learning and growing positively in 2009!

Magic Monday

2009-01-05T20:33:00.001-06:00

WooHoo! Here we are....start of a new year and a MAGIC MONDAY!

I have PakNak Charms for three lucky winners! Just go over to the PakNak site and take a look around. Come back here and tell me what your favorite two PakNaks are! It doesn't get any easier than that! Each winner will get 2 PakNaks!

Want a few other chances? OK!
-Tell me who you would give the PakNaks to and get one extra entry! Leave a comment
-Tell me what you think they will accessorize with PakNaks and get another extra entry! Leave a comment
-Followers always get an entry to EVERY Savvy SAHM Review giveaway so if you're a follower you're good to go! (No need to leave a comment!)
-Blog about this giveaway and leave a link! 1 chance!
-Grab our button and post it! Leave a link! 1 chance
-Email 3 friends & include me on the CC at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com and you'll get 1 more chance!

That means if you do all of those include being a follower you'll have 7 chances! Winner will be picked and announced next Monday Jan 12th!

Getting down to business!

2009-01-02T19:47:00.002-06:00

OK...I've been bitten by the posting bug (its so much more fun then trying to shovel out my daughters room!!!) First of all, did you guys notice my sigi?!!!? Angie over at Auction Add Ons did it as a prize for a giveaway. I LOVE IT!!! Thanks Angie! Her blog is over HERE You should go check it out! Especially if you're a WAHM she does websets! Nice ones!!! It makes me want to reopen my site!

So did you make any New Years Resolutions this year? If so do you feel like sharing? I'm not doing any resolutions per se...just trying to clean up my life as a whole! Lose weight, decide what I want to do when I grow up!, become more green and make my world healthier for my daughter, become better at planning and economizing. Just all around improvements! I'm also looking for more blogs to follow so let me know! Should I follow yours? What are other blogs that you NEED to check out every day?!!? Let me know!

Lastly, if you could get 2 wishes granted this year what would they be. One is a material item the other isn't (things that make you go hmmmmmmmmmmmmm!) Just so you don't feel like no one else is throwing anything out there I'll start!
I would like to get some more patience. I often feel stretched too thin and being a single mom to a special needs child is tough and I need to remind myself that its all going to be ok and not to get so overwhelmed. For a material item I would give my eyeteeth for a laptop computer. Nothing major. Just something I could use for school and blogging! That way I could actually get a bit more organized! So those are my two big wishes! What about you?

Fantastic Friday

2009-01-02T18:31:00.001-06:00

Not as long of a list this week! I was spending time with little bit! Some do close tonight so you might want to check these out! Remember- you can't win if you don't enter!

Mystic Connections Arch Angel Reading

The Not So Blog Jetta & Jellybeans giveaway

The Funky Monkey Truly Mom planner giveaway

Frugal Mommy of 2 girls Dance X DVD giveaway

The Secret is in the Sauce Keurig giveaway

Sunshine and lemonade Movie giveaway

Sassy Frazz Candlewick book giveaway

Mom it forward

The Funky Monkey Yenithing

sage and savvy Palm palms giveaway

Mom Saves Money Coupon giveaway

Tara’s View book review & giveaway

The Pink Chick 100th post giveaway

Happy New Year!

2009-01-02T17:47:00.002-06:00

So did everyone have a nice New Years Eve? Things are going to be really big here at Savvy SAHM Reviews in 2009! I've been in touch with some great sponsors & I think that y'all are going to be thrilled!!! Before we can go forward with the new year we need to wrap up some end of year business!

First and foremost I'd like to thank our readers! You guys are awesome! I hope you continue to enjoy this blog in 2009!

An equally big thanks to our 2008 sponsors! Without you things wouldn't have been as nice as they are! So here is a compiled list of the 2008 sponsors- if you get a second check them out!

Grins & Giggles Bowtique

Ally's Boutique

Country Vintage

oneripepeach

Magnolia Blossom Art

Linday Ryan Designs

Delight Designs

Alma's Crafts

Fantastic Toys

Supa Designs

Emmy's Bowtique

Crafts by Amber

Hair Candy Bowtique

Cocoa Studio

Kurdtlhorg's Shop

RoyalDook

What are your favorite blogs?

2008-12-27T23:34:00.003-06:00

I'm looking for some new blogs to check out so I thought I'd ask you what YOUR favorites are! My interests are living frugally, living more green, crafts and reading so drop a comment if you know of something you think I'll like!

Sarah

Fantastic Friday

2008-12-26T09:45:00.004-06:00

WooHoo! No bad weather & we haven't lost power today! Here is this weeks Fantastic Friday giveaway listing!

Mom Saves Mom $160 Coupon Giveaway HERE

I Am Harriet Blog Makeover HERE

Jamie’s Precious Peas Barabel Countdown Book HERE

Red Sox Mommy Country Bob’s All Purpose Sauce Giveaway HERE

Red Sox Mommy Build A Bear Giveaway HERE

Sage And Savvy Beleaf Bag giveaway HERE

Sage And Savvy Wholemato Giveaway HERE

The Funky Monkey Ecobags loofah scubbies HERE

The Funky Monkey Mr Boobbles Blanket Giveaway HERE

Mom Most Traveled Serif Digital Scrapbooking Giveaway HERE

Peanut Butter & Pickles Reviews Munny Journal HERE

the funky monkey inkubook calendar giveaway HERE

Mama’s Money Savers Personalized fruit roll up giveaway HERE

Family Travel Adventures Mad Lib books HERE

The Soft Landing Blog Think Baby giveaway HERE

The Funky Monkey Pyscho Baby Giveaway HERE

Jamies Precious Peas Kensington Baby giveaway HERE

Mommies with Cents Emergen C Kids Vitamin giveaway HERE

Feels like home Build A Bear giveaway HERE

Welcome to Motherhood Dr. Greene Giveaway HERE

Mom Start National Security mom HERE

The Funky Monkey Medibuddy HERE

Frugal Mommy of 2 girls Better Life giveaway HERE

Barefoot Mommy Safe Sippy giveaway HERE

At Home with Books Shelf Cleaning Giveaway HERE

Momfuse Piggy Paint Giveaway HERE

Mom Fuse Boon Bug Pod Giveaway HERE

Mom Fuse Rosie Jane Giveaway HERE

From One mom to another game giveaway HERE

Funky Monkey Cutie Pie Creations Custom Giveaway HERE

carp(e) libris review Tea Giveaway HERE

Have fun & remember you can't win if you don't enter!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T22:10:00.003-06:00

Wishing you and yours a very wonderful and blessed holiday!

I'll be back tomorrow with Fantastic Friday and 2009 is going to be incredible at Savvy SAHM Reviews! You guys are going to love it!

Happy Holidays,
Sarah

Fantastic Friday

2008-12-18T15:35:00.005-06:00

Man- I was on such a roll too! I had this written up on Thursday! Unfortunately Mother Nature had some plans & we had an ice storm. Our power was out for over 24 hours but here is the list of giveaways for this week!

OK...I really wasn't kidding when I said a HUGE list of giveaways this week! Remember...you can't win if you don't sign up! (yes I have won a few giveaways this week! A pair of polliwalks for my daughter and a book for her as well!) So without further ado here are some giveaways for you to check out! FYI- some of them end today!

-Auction Add-Ons is giving away 2 site builders Go HERE

-Did you see that is giving away a Smart E Bear HERE These look so cool & really want to get this for my daughter! Take a peek HERE

-Brimful Curiosities is giving away The SmartShopper is an electronic grocery list maker that uses voice recognition technology. What a cool little gadget! Go HERE

-Barefoot Mommies is giving away a complete laundry system from Mystic Wonders go here for details on the laundry system giveaway HERE

-Frugal Mommy of 2 girls is having a Neat Solutions Giveaway HERE

-New Mom Old Mom is having a Mary Kay Satin Hands and Satin Lips giveaway. If you haven't tried either of these product lines are you missing out! They are fabulous! Here to enter

-Fractured Toy is having a Build A Bear Gift Card giveaway. Have you seen Hal & Holly for the Holidays? TOO CUTE! Go here to learn more!

-Glimpse has done a review of Nana Brown's site and is giving away a potholder/towel combo Go here for more details

-Peanut Butter & Pickles Review is giving away an Avon Essentials Beauty Palette and Reed Diffuser HERE

-Savings Chatter is giving away $20 and free shipping from Bitsy Bows. Check it out HERE

-Peanut Butter & Pickles Review is having a Red Fish kids clothing giveaway HERE

-Classless and Loving it is giving away Zone Cleaning for Kids book. Man do I need this for my daughter. I ask her to go put something away and she opens her door and tosses it in...ummm nope doesn't really count as putting it away! Go HERE for the giveaway

-My Trendy Tykes is giving away a Vado Pocket video camera HERE

-Jamie's Precious Peas is giving away a Frecklebox book HERE

-Bargain Brianna is giving away an All You subscription I LOVE THIS MAG! If you haven't checked it out grab one when you're at Walmart! Giveaway HERE

-Frugal Mommy of 2 Girls is giving away a Mabel Handbag HERE

-5 Minutes for Mom is having a $100 Visa Card giveaway HERE

-5 Minutes for Mom is having an Oral B electric toothbrush giveaway HERE

-Jills Scrappy Daze is having a blog candy giveaway HERE

-Mom Fuse is having a New Year for Mom giveaway HERE

-Tree Swing Reading is giving away 4 Brandt Dodson books HERE

-MomStart is giving away a Keurig System HERE

-Pho for Five is giving away Acorn Slippers HERE

-Mom to 3 Angels is giving away a Build A Bear giftcard HERE

-Mom to 3 Angels is giving away 2 packages of Boogie Wipes for details go HERE

-Barefoot Mommies is having a Nature's Baby Organics giveaway HERE

-My Organized Chaos is giving away a Flashing Header from Blogger Boutique go HERE for details

-So Not Domestic is giving away a $25 giftcard good at good at Red Lobster, Olive Garden, Bahama Breeze, or Seasons Fresh Grill HERE for details

-Just a Mom's Take on Things is having a frito Lay giveaway HERE

Thrifty Thursday

2008-12-18T15:14:00.003-06:00

Have you noticed that at times being thrifty and being "green" coincide? Pretty cool, huh? Since I always need help being thrifty and am finding there are always more ways of going green I love finding a tip that overlaps! It also makes for a great learning time for my daughter! Today I thought I'd cover a few tips for a Thrifty & Green Christmas!

-The first thing- wrapping gifts!
There are so many ways of being thrifty and green!
recycle gift bags!
use comic/newspaper to wrap in
use a part of the gift to wrap in (a kitchen towel for a hostess gift!)
old maps
brown paper bags from the grocery store
reuse paper from the year before

Here's a great clip from youtube to give you some ideas!

These are just a few ideas! Go crazy! Let your kids help!

Here are some decorating ideas to have fun with!
-make a homemade felt garland. Learn how here
-Martha Stewart to the rescue! She'll show you how to recycle cards from years past! Check it out here
Paper decorating ideas HERE

I hope this gave you a few good ideas! Have a fun time getting ready for the holidays!

Sarah

Magic Monday Winner!

2008-12-18T12:19:00.002-06:00

Xenia is the winner of this weeks Monday Magic giveaway!

Please email me at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com

Congrats!
Sarah

Wrapped Up Review Wednesday Cranium Polar Bear A B C game

2008-12-17T18:40:00.002-06:00

I first heard about the Cranium Polar Bear A-B-C from another blog that was hosting a giveaway for it. I was very excited and hoped to win it as we're working on letter recognition with my daughter. Alas, I wasn't the winner but the next week Target was offering it as a $4 sale item. Bingo! I can do that. My daughter loves polar bears and penguins so I thought this would be a sure thing as far as her liking it. The concept of the game is really really very good. Unfortunately the fine details leave a bit to be desired. The "lake" that stores the letters for players to "go fishing" for letters attaches to the board. Unfortunately it doesn't attach well so it is very easy to come off. The magnets on the letters also aren't as strong as they need to be for the "fishing" for letters to be successful. The idea is still a wonderful learning tool so I wound up putting the letters in a cup and we just reached in and grabbed a letter. That was much easier. All of that being said though I would still recommend this game for kids 3+ that are learning to recognize letters or learn to spell. Just know that you might need some adaptation.

Magic Monday

2008-12-16T09:24:00.002-06:00

Its a day late but I so want someone to win this that I'm posting it now! Valerie from RoyalDook is giving one lucky winner a unisex lounge set in size 3-6 months. This is so darn cute! The pants are stocking print and the shirt has a stocking embroidered on it! Wouldn't your little one look precious in this on Christmas morning?!!!? To win you just need to go over to Royal Dook and take a peek. Come back here & tell me what your favorite item is!

Winner will be picked on Thursday December 18th at noon CST. I am hoping that the winner will check in so Valerie can get it in the mail this weekend so it makes it to you for the holidays! Good luck!

More Christmas Extravaganza Winners!

2008-12-16T09:16:00.002-06:00

Here are the winners for Christmas Extravaganza 8-10

CE 8 winner of a set of hairbows from Haircandy Bowtique is Joyful Noise

CE 9 winner of Cocoa Studio pick your own prize is Piece of Me

CE 10 winner of adult Christmas hair clip from Kurdtlhorg's Shop is Beeb at Contest Corner

Congrats! Please send an email to savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com so I can give you details on collecting your prizes!

Christmas Extravaganza Winners 1-7

2008-12-14T14:52:00.002-06:00

First of all a big Thank you to all of our sponsors! If you have the opportunity this holiday season, or anytime for that matter please shop with them! Secondly thanks to everyone who is a follower of the blog and everyone who left comments! You guys rock!

So without further ado here is the list of winners of the Christmas Extravaganza 1-7

#1- $25 store credit at Linsay Ryan Designs- Jenna at Jenna's Life

#2- Custom Card Design from Delight Designs- Ginny at Mom of 2 Dancers

#3-Snowman Earrings from Alma's Crafts- Stacie at Stacie Vaughan's Blog

#4-Gingerbread Cottage Playset from Fantastic Toys- Sweetpeas at Broad Horizons

#5- $15 store credit from Supa Designs- Lisa at Making Order Out of Chaos

#6-reindeer clippie from Emmy's Bowtique- 1 Stop Mom at 1 Stop Mom

#7-Gift tags from Crafts by Amber- Jayme at 365 Days in the Triangle

Congrats! If you are a winner please send me an email at Savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com so I can give you details! Thanks!

Christmas Extravaganza #10

2008-12-14T11:35:00.002-06:00

This one is so cool! How does some hair bling for a grown up sound?!!? We get to show our love of Christmas too, don't we?!!!? Amanda from Kurdtlhorg's Shop is offering this great hair clip for you today!

To win this great hair clip go over to Kurdtlhorg's Shop and look around. Very cool, very eclectic vintage feel to it! Come back here and leave a comment with your favorite item! Want some extra chances to win?!!? Here ya go!

-Add my button to your blog! worth 1 extra chance- Leave a comment so I know!
-Copy, Paste & Link my Holiday Extravaganza button to your blog! worth 2 extra chances! Leave a comment so I know!
-Blog about this contest! Worth 1 extra chance Leave a comment with a link!
-Become a follower of this blog (no need to leave a comment! Ever follower is also entered in EVERY giveaway we have!)
-Let your friends know about this contest! Email them (include me via CC at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com) For every 2 people you email you get 1 chance!
-Buy something from Kurdtlhorg's Shop ! Every purchase made by a Savvy Sahm Reader is worth 5 extra chances!

This contest is a one day only contest (as are all of the Christmas Extravaganza Giveaways). The winner will be posted tomorrow (Mon. Dec. 15th) Good luck! Don't forget to check back over the next couple of days! There are AT LEAST 3 giveaways scheduled for each day of the Christmas Extravaganza!

Christmas Extravaganza #9

2008-12-14T11:23:00.002-06:00

I must say that I love the shop run by our next sponsor! Terri runs Cocoa Studio on Etsy and she has some of the cutest stuff! Great labels and stickers! I love when things can be personalized (I was mean enough to give my daughter an unusual name so being able to personalize is a good thing!) Terri also features stickers that can be used for scrapbooking, cardmaking, scrabble tiles and so much more! If you are one of those crafty people you really need to run over to Cocoa Studio! The colors are so bright and wonderful! Terri is being so generous and giving one lucky Savvy SAHM Review reader any one item of their choice! (I'm really digging these giveaways where the winner gets to do it their way!) Head on over to Cocoa Studio and take a look around. Come back here and leave a comment with what item you would like to win! Also Terri is offering 20% off every item bought by a Savvy SAHM Review reader bought today! Just pick out what things you'd like to purchase and conversation Terri and she'll send you an invoice after you tell her you're a Savvy SAHM Review reader!

As always there are extra chances for you as well!
-Add my button to your blog! worth 1 extra chance- Leave a comment so I know!
-Copy, Paste & Link my Holiday Extravaganza button to your blog! worth 2 extra chances! Leave a comment so I know!
-Blog about this contest! Worth 1 extra chance Leave a comment with a link!
-Become a follower of this blog (no need to leave a comment! Ever follower is also entered in EVERY giveaway we have!)
-Let your friends know about this contest! Email them (include me via CC at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com) For every 2 people you email you get 1 chance!
-Buy something from Cocoa Studio! Every purchase made by a Savvy Sahm Reader is worth 5 extra chances!

This contest is a one day only contest (as are all of the Christmas Extravaganza Giveaways). The winner will be posted tomorrow (Mon. Dec. 15th) Good luck! Don't forget to check back over the next couple of days! There are AT LEAST 3 giveaways scheduled for each day of the Christmas Extravaganza!

Christmas Extravaganza #8

2008-12-14T11:12:00.002-06:00

WooHoo! Another giveaway! Beth from Hair Candy Bowtique is sponsoring this giveaway & I know you'll love it! Beth is going to donate a set of hair bows of YOUR CHOICE! Who says we don't do it your way around here?!!? A big thanks to Beth and Hair Candy Bowtique as well! In order to win this giveaway you need to go to Hair Candy Bowtique and take a look around. Come back here and leave a comment with what set of bows you would like to win. Its just that easy!

Want a few extra chances? OK! I can do that too!

-Add my button to your blog! worth 1 extra chance- Leave a comment so I know!
-Copy, Paste & Link my Holiday Extravaganza button to your blog! worth 2 extra chances! Leave a comment so I know!
-Blog about this contest! Worth 1 extra chance Leave a comment with a link!
-Become a follower of this blog (no need to leave a comment! Ever follower is also entered in EVERY giveaway we have!)
-Let your friends know about this contest! Email them (include me via CC at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com) For every 2 people you email you get 1 chance!
-Buy something from Hair Candy Bowtique! Every purchase made by a Savvy Sahm Reader is worth 5 extra chances!

And just because Beth is so awesome she is going to give a special surprise to every Savvy SAHM Review reader that places an order today! Add the word christmas in the comment section and Beth will add an extra surptise gift with each order. THANKS BETH! You're the best!

This contest is a one day only contest (as are all of the Christmas Extravaganza Giveaways). The winner will be posted tomorrow (Mon. Dec. 15th) Good luck! Don't forget to check back over the next couple of days! There are AT LEAST 3 giveaways scheduled for each day of the Christmas Extravaganza!

Christmas Extravaganza #7

2008-12-13T11:31:00.003-06:00

And just because I'm in a very Merry mood! Another Christmas Extravaganza giveaway for today! Amber from Crafts by Amber is giving one lucky Savvy SAHM Review reader a set of gift tags. I love the vintage feel of these! Check 'em out!

These are so cute & can be used as gift tags but I'm also thinking they would be awesome for some scrapbooking or journaling projects! So how do you get your hands on these tags? Go over to Crafts by Amber and take a look around. You'll like it... really I promise! Amber is one of those really multitalented people! She makes the cutest little knit baby hats you'll ever see! She also does lots of paperpiecings for those crafty types out there! After you've gone to Crafts by Amber come back here and tell me which one of her items you like the best!

As always there are extra chances for you as well!
-Add my button to your blog! worth 1 extra chance- Leave a comment so I know!
-Copy, Paste & Link my Holiday Extravaganza button to your blog! worth 2 extra chances! Leave a comment so I know!
-Blog about this contest! Worth 1 extra chance Leave a comment with a link!
-Become a follower of this blog (no need to leave a comment! Ever follower is also entered in EVERY giveaway we have!)
-Let your friends know about this contest! Email them (include me via CC at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com) For every 2 people you email you get 1 chance!
-Buy something from Crafts by Amber! Every purchase made by a Savvy Sahm Reader is worth 5 extra chances!

This contest is a one day only contest (as are all of the Christmas Extravaganza Giveaways). The winner will be posted tomorrow (Sun. Dec. 14th) Good luck! Don't forget to check back over the next couple of days! There are AT LEAST 3 giveaways scheduled for each day of the Christmas Extravaganza!

Christmas Extravaganza #6

2008-12-13T11:18:00.003-06:00

OK...we're hopping now! Happy Saturday guys! What do you think of the giveaways today? Here is another one that is just perfect if you have a Princess in your life! Emily from Emmy's Bowtique is giving one lucky Savvy SAHM Review reader an absolutely precious Reindeer Clippie with Polka Dots and a Red Nose.

Isn't it just the cutest?!!? To be the lucky winner you need to check out Emmy's Bowtique and come back here and tell me what your favorite item is (good luck picking just one!)

And because you know that I wouldn't leave you hanging without extra chances here you go!
-Add my button to your blog! worth 1 extra chance- Leave a comment so I know!
-Copy, Paste & Link my Holiday Extravaganza button to your blog! worth 2 extra chances! Leave a comment so I know!
-Blog about this contest! Worth 1 extra chance Leave a comment with a link!
-Become a follower of this blog (no need to leave a comment! Ever follower is also entered in EVERY giveaway we have!)
-Let your friends know about this contest! Email them (include me via CC at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com) For every 2 people you email you get 1 chance!
-Buy something from Emmy's Bowtique! Every purchase made by a Savvy SAHM Reader is worth 5 extra chances!

This contest is a one day only contest (as are all of the Christmas Extravaganza Giveaways). The winner will be posted tomorrow (Sun. Dec. 14th) Good luck! Don't forget to check back over the next couple of days! There are AT LEAST 3 giveaways scheduled for each day of the Christmas Extravaganza!

Christmas Extravaganza #5

2008-12-13T11:07:00.002-06:00

Wow! If you're the Mommy, Aunt, Grandma or have a special Princess in your life you're going to love this giveaway! Stephanie from Supa Designs is giving one oh so lucky Savvy SAHM Review Reader a $15 store credit! Check these out!

Really how cool is that? At her really reasonable prices you can gets lots of hair bling for that special little girl! Her clippies are just so cute! Makes me wish my Princess was smaller & could pull these off! So how do you get in on this amazing giveaway? Go over to Supa Designs and take a peek (or two or three!) After you're done drooling over how cute those clippies are leave a comment with what your favorite one is!
Doesn't get much easier does it? Want a few more chances? Who can blame you! Give these options a try!

-Add my button to your blog! worth 1 extra chance- Leave a comment so I know!
-Copy, Paste & Link my Holiday Extravaganza button to your blog! worth 2 extra chances! Leave a comment so I know!
-Blog about this contest! Worth 1 extra chance Leave a comment with a link!
-Become a follower of this blog (no need to leave a comment! Ever follower is also entered in EVERY giveaway we have!)
-Let your friends know about this contest! Email them (include me via CC at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com) For every 2 people you email you get 1 chance!
-Buy something from Fantastic Toys! Every purchase made by a Savvy Sahm Reader is worth 5 extra chances!

Also, because Stephanie is just so awesome she is offering a great deal today only for all Savvy SAHM Review readers! How does 20% off and free shipping with the code supa20ship sound to you?!!!?? So if you have a special little girl in your life do not pass go, do not collect $200 just go over to Supa Designs and get her some hair bling! She'll love you for it!

This contest is a one day only contest (as are all of the Christmas Extravaganza Giveaways). The winner will be posted tomorrow (Sun. Dec. 14th) Good luck! Don't forget to check back over the next couple of days! There are AT LEAST 3 giveaways scheduled for each day of the Christmas Extravaganza!

Christmas Extravaganza #4

2008-12-13T10:41:00.005-06:00

Tim from Fantastic Toys is has generously offered a Gingerbread Cottage Paper Playset PDF for one lucky Savvy SAHM Review Reader! Now I can honestly tell you how cute this set is...why? Because I bought one! My daughter is just enthralled with it and printed on card stock its sturdy enough for her to move the pieces without crushing them. I love that it has such a retro feel to it. It reminds me of Christmas decorations that my grandma had. This is a great project for you to do with your kids during Christmas break.

So how do you win this adorable Gingerbread Cottage Paper Playset? Go over to Fantastic Toys and take a look around. After you've done that mosey on back here and leave a comment with your favorite item. Its just that easy! Want a few more chances to win? Ok! I can help you out! Want a few more chances to win? I thought you might!
-Add my button to your blog! worth 1 extra chance- Leave a comment so I know!
-Copy, Paste & Link my Holiday Extravaganza button to your blog! worth 2 extra chances! Leave a comment so I know!
-Blog about this contest! Worth 1 extra chance Leave a comment with a link!
-Become a follower of this blog (no need to leave a comment! Ever follower is also entered in EVERY giveaway we have!)
-Let your friends know about this contest! Email them (include me via CC at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com) For every 2 people you email you get 1 chance!
-Buy something from Fantastic Toys! Every purchase made by a Savvy Sahm Reader is worth 5 extra chances!

This contest is a one day only contest (as are all of the Christmas Extravaganza Giveaways). The winner will be posted tomorrow (Sun. Dec. 14th) Good luck! Don't forget to check back over the next couple of days! There are AT LEAST 3 giveaways scheduled for each day of the Christmas Extravaganza!

Christmas Extravaganza #3

2008-12-12T21:38:00.005-06:00

WooHoo! Third time is the charm right? Well this giveaway will run until noon tomorrow since it is a bit late getting posted. Without further ado here is the newest giveaway!

Troy & Alma from Alma's Crafts have donated the absolutely cutest pair of snowman earrings!

Really, how cute are these?!!!? I can even look at them and smile instead of shivering! Here is Alma's Crafts description for these precious earrings! "This pair of “Holiday Season” earrings was Hand Crafted in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia, by Alma Stevens.

A lot of the jewelry my wife creates is from items such as, Black Walnuts, Buttons, semiprecious stones, crystals, miss vintage jewelry parts, trinkets, etc.

This pair of “Christmas SNOW MAN” Christmas earrings was crafted using (from the trinket category) App. 1” square trinkets (charms), then suspended on gold plated surgical steel ear wires.

Measures app. 1” from bottom of ear wire and app. 1”W.

We ship to USA only..

This item includes, Free USPS first class padded envelope shipping, USA only…"

So how do you enter to win these snowman earrings from Alma's Crafts?
-Go to Alma's Crafts and take a look around! Come back here and leave a comment with what your favorite item in the store is!

Want a few more chances to win? I thought you might!
-Add my button to your blog! worth 1 extra chance- Leave a comment so I know!
-Copy, Paste & Link my Holiday Extravaganza button to your blog! worth 2 extra chances! Leave a comment so I know!
-Blog about this contest! Worth 1 extra chance Leave a comment with a link!
-Become a follower of this blog (no need to leave a comment! Ever follower is also entered in EVERY giveaway we have!)
-Let your friends know about this contest! Email them (include me via CC at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com) For every 2 people you email you get 1 chance!
-Buy something from Alma's Crafts! (This gets better in just a minute!) Every purchase made by a Savvy Sahm Reader is worth 5 extra chances! (purchases made by noon CST tomorrow)

Have fun browsing around Alma's Crafts! In addition to giving away the snowman earrings Troy & Alma are offering 10% off to ALL Savvy SAHM Review readers (does not apply towards shipping or tax)! To receive your 10% discount request an invoice at check out stating that you are a Savvy SAHM Review Reader!

This contest is a one day only contest (as are all of the Christmas Extravaganza Giveaways). The winner will be posted tomorrow (Sat. Dec 13th) Good luck! Don't forget to check back over the next couple of days! There are AT LEAST 3 giveaways scheduled for each day of the Christmas Extravaganza!

Fantastic Friday

2008-12-12T10:55:00.001-06:00

And you thought the Christmas Extravaganza was awesome! It just keeps on getting better and better! Here is this weeks list of giveaways to enter (after you enter for the Christmas Extravaganza giveaways of course!) Don't forget you can't win if you don't enter!

Mom Giveaways is giving away a pair of Polliwalks HERE

Frugal Mommy of 2 Girls is giving away a shirt from Zehn Naturals. Go HERE

Frugal Mommy of 2 Girls is giving away a $75 Vincent Shoes gift card HERE

Chief Family Officer is giving away a copy of The Little Penguin right HERE

Riding With No Hands is giving away a bracelet HERE

The Funky Monkey is giving away Bath Luve (awesome concept!) right HERE

The Funky Monkey is giving away an earth & human friendly water bottle from Earthlust HERE

24 Hours is Never Enough is Having a copy of A Little Bit of Faith HERE

Rica's Haven has some great blog candy! Check it out here

Ladybug Soup is having a giveaway hosted by Tiny Tag Designs HERE

Thrifty & Chic Mom is having a Mommy card giveaway right here

Go Grahm Go is giving away Eco-Adorable Toy from ImagiPlay Check it out here

Mom Most Traveled has a Soaping with the Soap Queen giveaway HERE

Mom Most Traveled is having a Smart E Bear giveaway (I would give my eyeteeth to win this for my princess!) HERE

Blessings Abound is giving away Toobeez (very cool toy!) right HERE

Goodies for Mom is giving away a green Diaper bag Check it out HERE

Sweet Irie Originals is having a Double Trouble giveaway HERE

Sweet Irie Originals is having a giveaway from Girls Just Want to have Fun HERE

The Funky Monkey is giving away a Tshirt from Baby Monkey HERE

One House Schoolhouse is having a Mommy Card or blog design giveaway from Fruition Designs listed HERE

Carpe Libris Review is giving away A Life Well Read Set HERE

Ekidsview is giving away a Reindeer Webkindz HERE

Christmas Extravaganza #2

2008-12-12T09:17:00.002-06:00

Ready for the second giveaway of the Christmas extravaganza?!!!? Up next...a CUSTOM Christmas Card design from Delight Designs!

How awesome is that?!!? You send in the picture(s) you want to use and discuss style with Char from Delight Designs and she goes to work making a custom creation just for you! Char will send you a proof and once you agree its absolutely perfect she will send the full-size card design to you in JPG format for printing. (Printing can be done anywhere you can get 5x7 prints made - Walmart, Walgreens, Sams, Costco, Winkflash, Snapfish, etc.)

So how do you enter to win the custom card design at Delight Designs?
-Go to Delight Designs and take a look around! Come back here and leave a comment with what your favorite item in the store is!

Want a few more chances to win? I thought you might!
-Add my button to your blog! worth 1 extra chance- Leave a comment so I know!
-Copy, Paste & Link my Holiday Extravaganza button to your blog! worth 2 extra chances! Leave a comment so I know!
-Blog about this contest! Worth 1 extra chance Leave a comment with a link!
-Become a follower of this blog (no need to leave a comment! Ever follower is also entered in EVERY giveaway we have!)
-Let your friends know about this contest! Email them (include me via CC at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com) For every 2 people you email you get 1 chance!
-Buy something from Delight Designs! (This gets better in just a minute!) Every purchase made by a Savvy Sahm Reader is worth 5 extra chances!

Have fun browsing around Delight Designs! Char is running a special on all the custom card designs so this is the right time to go shopping!

This contest is a one day only contest (as are all of the Christmas Extravaganza Giveaways). The winner will be posted tomorrow (Sat. Dec 13th) Good luck! Don't forget to check back over the next couple of days! There are AT LEAST 4 giveaways scheduled for each day of the Christmas Extravaganza!

Christmas Extravaganza #1

2008-12-12T07:44:00.005-06:00

Are you ready?!!!!? Here it is! The very first giveaway of Savvy SAHM Reviews Christmas Extravaganza!!!

Our first giveaway is a $25.00 store credit from Lindsay Ryan Designs! This Etsy shop is VERY cool! So much so in fact that I'm sharing it with most everyone I know! Lindsay has some really incredible vintage and pin up Christmas cards but it doesn't end there! She also has an entire line of Holiday greetings and custom design options. Again- it doesn't end there! Lindsay shared a few pics of her upcoming line and they are so awesome! Really you need to head over to Linday Ryan Designs and take a peek! Here's just a bit of a preview for you!

So how do you enter to win the $25 store credit at Lindsay Ryan Designs?
-Go to Lindsay Ryan Designs and take a look around! Come back here and leave a comment with what your favorite item in the store is!

Want a few more chances to win? I thought you might!
-Add my button to your blog! worth 1 extra chance- Leave a comment so I know!
-Copy, Paste & Link my Holiday Extravaganza button to your blog! worth 2 extra chances! Leave a comment so I know!
-Blog about this contest! Worth 1 extra chance Leave a comment with a link!
-Become a follower of this blog
-Let your friends know about this contest! Email them (include me via CC at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com) For every 2 people you email you get 1 chance!
-Buy something from Lindsay Ryan Designs! (This gets better in just a minute!) Every purchase made by a Savvy Sahm Reader is worth 5 extra chances!

SO, you ask, how does it get even better? Lindsay is offering some amazing deals to you! Savvy SAHM Review Readers! How about FREE SHIPPING and a surprise free item for all purchases and $5.00 off any order over $25.00? Does that sound good? I thought it might!!! All you need to do is type "SAVVY SMASH" in the "notes to seller" and choose to pay later. Lindsay will send you an invoice via paypal reflecting your discounts. Honestly- how cool is that?!!!? Also don't forget that Lindsay is going to be adding new stock so you want to bookmark her sight! http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6278125

This contest is a one day only contest (as are all of the Christmas Extravaganza Giveaways). The winner will be posted tomorrow (Sat. Dec 13th) Good luck! Don't forget to check back over the next couple of days! There are AT LEAST 4 giveaways scheduled for each day of the Christmas Extravaganza!

Sarah

A bit about the Christmas Extravaganza & Giveaways in General

2008-12-11T13:16:00.003-06:00

OK...the next few days are really going to be exciting around here! Friday, Saturday and Sunday we're having multiple (think AT least 3) giveaways per day! This will be one day giveaways only so you need to check each day to see if you won the day before and then to enter the new contests! Honestly its going to be a lot of fun!

Now, on to contests in general! I've started compiling my list of Friday Freebie giveaways to post for you guys tomorrow (in addition to the Christmas Extravaganza...how cool is that?!!!?) I can't stress enough the importance of taking a bit of time and signing up for contests/giveaways. You can't win if you don't sign up! Winning is so much fun and it doesn't have to be a big ticket item to be a thrilling thing! This week I won 2 different giveaways. I actually found out about them at the same time so I was really on Cloud 9. I won a pink ipod shuffle with an itunes gift card and a personalized CD. I'm so excited because I might be the last genXer to not have an ipod. Its just as a single mom to a special needs child there are always more important things to spend my money on so this is a very welcome giveaway win & kind of like my Christmas gift to myself! The personalized CD will be perfect for my daughter. She has a name that is unique so personalized items have to be special ordered. Her Aunt has gotten a few things among those lines for her but this is going to be a hit I know! I'm not trying to rub your nose in my wins...really I'm not! While I'm sharing my excitement I'm also saying you can't win if you don't put some time (not a lot if you don't want to!) into it! Most of the giveaways I tell you about will also give you an additional chance to enter if you blog about the giveaway as well. There are often additional ways to get extra chances...go with it! So, I'll see you back here tomorrow for the start of the Christmas Extravaganza and a brand new list of giveaways to enter! GOOD LUCK!!!

Sarah

Christmas Extravaganza!

2008-12-11T11:46:00.001-06:00

Starting tomorrow you want to check back here everyday for the next 3 days! From December 12-14 there are going to be multiple one day giveaways! So you want to make sure you leave a comment and blog about the giveaways! I promise you're going to love this!

Sarah

Ugh....rough beginnings!

2008-12-09T11:08:00.001-06:00

Hi! I'm back & want to say "hi" to my followers & thanks for sticking with Savvy SAHM Reviews! I'm really trying to make this blog great & appreciate you guys following the blog! I also apologize that its been a bit of a rough transition. I'm a single mom to a special needs child so sometimes my best intentions get pushed to the side when trying to take care of her. Right now she's suffering from a very bad respiratory infection so we're having a bit of a rough go of things. I'm working on today's tips post & will have that for you soon! I'm also working on posting this weeks Magical Monday giveaway a day late (a wee bit of something for those in the holiday spirit or maybe needing a bit of help getting there!). So check back later today & drop a comment or 2!

Thanks!
Sarah

Winner of Magnolia Art giveaway....

2008-12-09T10:58:00.001-06:00

Lucky Duck! I'm jealous! Once again a follower is our winner and its Country Girl 3031 from http://countryvintageblog.blogspot.com/ Congrats! Please drop an email to savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com

Winner of Last Weeks Magical Monday is...

2008-12-09T10:57:00.001-06:00

Anita over at http://heartattackinabox.blogspot.com/!!! See....being a Savvy SAHM Review Follower has its privledges! Please drop me an email at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com Thanks & Congrats!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sarah

Fantastic Friday

2008-12-05T13:12:00.002-06:00

Here is the promised HUGE list of blog giveaways! Go...enter....have fun! Good luck!

The Way I See It is giving away a pair of Polliwalks- go here

My Quest for Sanity is giving away a Laurie Berkner CD here

My Quest for Sanity is giving away a Custom Book. Check it out here

My Quest for Sanity is giving away a Build a Bear gift card here

The Funky Monkey is giving away a copy of Manadoob Mystery of the Moobia Stones - go here

Chocolate Fingerprints is giving away a pair of Polliwalks. Go Here

An Ordinary Life is giving away a video camera HERE

Sage & Savvy is giving away a Mannheim Steamroller CD here

My Trendy Tykes is giving away a pair of polliwalks HERE

Controlling Chaos in Canada is giving away a Conair Sound Therapy over here

Goodies for Mom is giving away a slew of stuff! Go check it out HERE

Glimpse Reviews is giving away a personalized CD from Name that Tune HERE

Inside Out is giving away an item from Jaybird Designs HERE

Creating with Shellie is giving away handmade cards here

Mudpies & Maryjanes is giving away a gift certificate to Too Cute Clips HERE

The Not So Blog is giving away Label Daddy Labels (very cool!) check it out here

Jolly Mom is giving away an item from Super Sweet Creations HERE

The Thrifty & Chic Mom is giving away a cup/bottle cover from Lilybugs HERE

Grocery Price Book is giving away Paknaks HERE

Maria's Space is giving away a copy of Alex & Me check it out here

Mommies with cents is giving away a copy of the Radical Simplicity ebook HERE

5 minutes for Mom is giving away a $100 Visa Card HERE

Ready for another giveaway?

2008-12-05T10:07:00.004-06:00

I thought you might be so here is the coolest set of gift card holders. I love this idea in general and absolutely adore this set! To check it out go over to Magnolia Blossom Art Shop at Etsy.

Sharon is the owner of the Magnolia Blossom Art Shop and truly is just a super sweet person...a wonderful soul & I've had a lot of fun talking to her! In addition to just being a great person she is also very talented! She has so many different things over at Magnolia Blossom Art that its truly hard to pick a favorite. She has awesome gift tags, ornaments, cards and much more! Just a great shop!

So how to you win the gift card holders? Its so darn easy! Just head over to Magnolia Blossom Art and browse around (actually feel free to shop if you feel like it! Sharon's got a sale going on right now!). Then come back here and leave a comment with your favorite item in the store.

Want a few more chances? OK! Each is worth an additional entry!
-Become a follower of this blog. Followers are entered in EVERY giveaway!
-Blog about this blog & this giveaway! Come back & leave a comment so I know you did this!
-Add the blog button on your blog! Leave a comment so I know!
-Not a blogger (or just want another chance?) Send an email to 3 people about this giveaway & CC me at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com

This contest is a ONE DAY contest! So hurry hurry! I'll post the winner tomorrow!

Thrifty Thursday

2008-12-04T19:54:00.003-06:00

Welcome to our first Thrift Thursday! I figure in these troubled times that every might benefit from trimming back spending a bit. I know that personally one of the hardest things is to live within a good food budget. Its so hard to make meals for my daughter and myself that are a) tasty b) economical c) not so big as we're eating its leftovers for a week! Consequently I'm always searching for frugal recipes and today I'm going to share some sights with you that I like! Do you have any frugal recipes you'd be willing to share? Any websites or books you use to keep your food budget under control? If so please share!

One of the first places I check is my friend Heathers blog Economical Eats Heather is truly a genius at organizing and keeping a budget. She also has some very yummy recipes! Go take a peek! Economical Eats

http://www.frugalrecipes.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=Topics&file=index

http://www.betterbudgeting.com/frugalrecipelist.htm

http://www.miserlymoms.com/MOMfrecipes2.htm

http://www.hillbillyhousewife.com/

http://www.freelancebyu.com/recipes.htm

http://www.eatingonabudget.com/home

http://www.mommysavers.com/frugal-food-recipes/index.shtml

http://www.momsneedtoknow.com/category/cook/frugal-recipes/

Wrapped Up Review Wednesday

2008-12-03T21:52:00.003-06:00

Thanks for joining me for our first Wrapped Up Review Wednesday! (Don't worry... giveaways are returning tomorrow!)

I choose to cover Johnson & Johnsons no more tangles leave in conditioner. Here is what this product looks like at your local store:

And this is the product description right from the Johnson and Johnson's website:

JOHNSON'S® NO MORE TANGLES® Leave-in Conditioner
Lightweight formula tames stubborn knots and snarls

Introducing your new secret weapon in the battle of the brush! JOHNSON'S® NO MORE TANGLES® Leave-in Conditioner detangles and conditions your toddler's hair in one easy step. No rinsing required. The lightweight formula gently unlocks the toughest knots and tangles for shiny, comb-friendly hair without the fuss.

Unique NO MORE TANGLES® formula
Light, fresh scent
Allergy-tested
Gentle enough for everyday use
How to Use
Pour a dime size amount into your palm (use more if your little one has long hair or has especially troublesome knots) and rub it between your hands to form a thin layer. Start at the crown and use your fingers to gently work the conditioner downward through your toddler's hair. Then just comb, style and go!

When to Use
Tangle busting isn't just for bathtime anymore. You can use JOHNSON'S® NO MORE TANGLES® Leave-in Conditioner on wet or dry hair, or any time you want to tame knots and fly-aways. The unique formula has a light fresh scent, and is allergy tested so it's gentle enough to use every day.

Safety
Keep out of reach of children. Remember to remove the quality seal. Do not use if the quality seal is already broken.

Ingredients
Water, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Behenyl Alcohol, Polyquaternium-37, Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Behentrimonium Chloride, Fragrance, Methylparaben, PPG-1, Trideceth-6, Propylparaben, Cetrimonium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide

I'll start out with the con(s) of which there really aren't that many. I would have to say that my first complaint per se is the fragrance- in my opinion (which hey is why you're reading this, right?!!?) is that its a bit strong. The rest isn't a complaint but more a warning if you are a green mom or just someone who is watching what is going on (and therefore into) your child please note that ingredients. Parabens are nasty stuff. I make very sure when using this not to get it on my daughters scalp.

Now for what I do like about the product- and honestly my overall opinion is that I really do like this product! My daughter has very curly, very coarse hair that is always out of control. I like that I can throw this on right after her bath or in the morning getting ready for school. It doesn't wet the hair down and does work very quickly and very well. This does leave my daughters hair softer and most definitely gets rid of the knots. None of that "Ouch...you're huring me!" and honestly who wouldn't want a bit less of that? Price wise this isn't a heavy hit as the price range is between $3.50-$4.50. That said a little bit goes a very long way.

So, have you used this product on your little one(s)? Think my review is accurate? Please feel free to drop a line or leave a comment!

Magical Monday Giveaway!

2008-12-01T13:20:00.003-06:00

So, did everyone have a wonderful weekend? Thanks for joining me back here today! Today I am starting with what I *think* is going to be the format for the blog. Don't worry...we're still going to have giveaways. Every Monday will be a giveaway & we have extras since we're still kicking things off! Sooooooooooooo, without further ado here are the details for the first Magical Monday Giveaway!

Ellen over at Oneripepeach is giving this too die for cute Kitten Christmas tag to our lucky winner! So, how do you win this adorably tag?

First, go over to oneripepeach and take a look around (don't be afraid of buying something while you're there! You'll get a surprise...more on that in a minute!) After you've taken in all the great things Ellen has to offer come back here and comment on what your favorite item is

Want a few more chances? OK!
-Become a follower (followers are entered in every giveaway whether you do anything else or not!)
-Add my button to your blog
-Blog about this giveaway
-Email 3 people and CC me at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com and let them know about the giveaway!

Each one is worth another chance...just leave a comment on what you did (followers don't need to leave a comment!)

Now for the surprise for you! Ellen is offering a freebie with every purchase made by Savvy SAHM Review readers today only! Every purchaser will receive 3 yards of vintage seam binding FREE! How cool is that?!!!? So really, go over to oneripepeach and check it out! Then buy something!

Now for the details on the giveaway!
-Giveaway ends at midnight December 8th

Country Vintage Giveaway Winner....

2008-12-01T13:18:00.004-06:00

The winner of the Country Vintage giveaway is....

http://nanja-nansplace.blogspot.com/

Please send me an email & I'll get in you touch with Michelle over at Country Vintage

First of 2 Black Friday Giveaways!

2008-11-28T08:49:00.002-06:00

Who said you needed to brave the crowds to get something great today? Not me! We're having 2 giveaways today! So, without further ado here is the first!

Michelle at Country Vintage Etsy Shop is giving away this darling heart ornament! I just love this! It's pink & sparkly! I wish I could win because I know my daughter would love this! So, how do you win? You go over to Michelle's shop, Country Vintage, and browse around! Come back here & tell me what your favorite item is!

Want a few more chances to win?
-Become a follower of this blog! (Every follower gets a chance to every giveaway we have whether they have commented or not!)
-Add our button to your blog
-Blog about this giveaway
-Email 3 people about this giveaway & CC me at Savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com

Leave a comment for each additional option you used & get one extra entry for each one!

In addition to the ornament giveaway Michelle is offering all Savvy SAHM Review readers a 10% discount today! Just mention this blog in the comments when you check out!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T13:00:00.001-06:00

Wishing you & yours a very happy, healthy Thanksgiving with your family & friends!

Join us back here tomorrow for 2- count 'em- 2 giveaways!!!

Sarah

Ally's Boutique Giveaway Winner is.....

2008-11-27T12:59:00.001-06:00

Brooke!!!!

Brooke please email me at savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com so I can get you in touch with Allyson for your bows!!!

Ally's Boutique Giveaway is extended!

2008-11-26T10:52:00.001-06:00

Since the links were not working for awhile yesterday Allyson at Ally's Boutique as agreed to extend the contest until midnight CST today! Thanks so much Allyson!

Ally's Boutique Links are FIXED!

2008-11-25T19:41:00.002-06:00

So sorry! If you tried earlier the links are now fixed!

Are you Ready?!!!? For another giveaway that is!

2008-11-25T09:03:00.004-06:00

We're on a roll now! Here we are with the 2nd day of our blog kickoff giveaway blitz! Thanks to all who participated yesterday!

Today our giveaway is sponsored by Ally's Boutique The winner is going to receive 4 bows...in the size of their choice! If you have a baby, a toddler or a bigger girl you can pick the right sized bow for them!

How to enter?
Go to Ally's Boutique and come back and leave a comment on what your favorite item is! Honestly if you can only pick one item you're a better person than I am! The flower bows! The bow that looks like a present....I could go on and on!

Want a few more chances to win?
Blog about this contest and then come back here and leave a comment saying you did
Email 3 people about the contest & CC me (savvysahmreviews@yahoo.com)
Follow this blog
Add our new (will be up by this afternoon) button to your blog!

Each of these options give you one more chance to win!

Ready for more good stuff? Allyson over at Ally's Boutique is offering all Savvy SAHM Review readers FREE SHIPPING today! Just leave a comment when placing your order! These bows would surely be just the perfect accessory for the upcoming holidays!

Bottlecap Winner Is....

2008-11-25T08:02:00.001-06:00

Jessica! Please send me an email & I'll give you the details on claiming your prize! Congrats!

Sarah

Time to get this party started!

2008-11-24T08:09:00.006-06:00

We are kicking off the start of Savvy SAHM Reviews with a giveaway blitz! I'm so excited & hope you are too! We are going to have giveaways for the next 2 weeks! Please make sure you check back daily as you're going to be thrilled with the giveaway goodies!!!

So without further ado here is the info for our first giveaway! Courtesy of Grins & Giggles Bowtique the winner gets their choice of a bottlecap necklace! These are just too cute & I see a few of these in my daughters future! So, how do you enter this giveaway? Easy peasy! Go to Grins & Giggles Bowtique and tell me your favorite item in the store! Come back here & leave a comment about it! It just doesn't get any easier does it? Winner will be picked at 10:30pm CST. Want a few more chances? Blog about the contest and come back and leave a link that I can verify? Another still? Become a follower of this blog! Please make sure that you leave an email that I can contact you at if you're our lucky winner!

In addition to Grins & Giggles Bowtique giving a bottlecap necklace to the lucky winner they are also extending a great savings on to all of you wonderful readers in blogland! Today only when you purchase 3 bottlecap necklaces from Grins & Giggles Bowtique you get a 4th necklace free! When you make your purchase pay for your 3 necklaces and leave your freebie 4th choice necklace in the comments section when checking out! These would make great stocking stuffers for the princess in your life!