Let's Play School Review

Just as most little girls, my daughter loves dolls. She has so many, and every time she gets a new one, her face still lights up. Even though she likes all dolls, with her having so many, I only want to get her another if it is special in some way.


It's not every day that I fall in love with a doll, so when I saw the Let's Play School set from Nenuco, and fell in love with it, it was a really special occurrence. I knew I had to get it for her.

She was even more excited than I expected her to be. I couldn't even get a picture without her touching it.

What makes this set so special though, is that it's so much more than a beautiful doll.

It is about school and my daughter gets to be the teacher.

Anything that gets her excited about learning is a huge asset, but this set is even more than that.

My son goes to school and he is his sister's hero. She goes with me to take him to the bus stop, and she always wants to go with him. She doesn't understand why he has to go and why she can't go along. I've tried to explain that he needs to go do work and learn, but it's hard to make her understand.

I think this set is perfect for her to start learning about what school is and what goes on there. She'll be going soon enough, and this is a great way to prep her early. Not to mention the fact that there is real learning involved, which is even more awesome.

There are so many fabulous accessories to make real lessons that my daughter can both learn from and eventually "teach" to her very own student.

Everything is stored right in the convenient door and pouch on the reverse side of the school, so nothing gets lost and is always on hand for easy storage, travel and play.

This is just such a fun set. I think I like playing with it as much as my little girl does. It is so precious how excited she gets when it's "time for school", and I cannot wait to see the progress she is sure to make because of this.

I think it's going to be hard for any future dolls to top this one. If you are looking for a unique, entertaining, educational toy I can't think of anything more fitting than the Let's Play School set from Nenuco.

And be sure to follow Nenuco on Facebook to be in the loop of all the great products and even giveaways(hint hint).

*Although I received this at no cost to facilitate a review, all opinions are 100% my own.*

Clawz Review

Now that warm weather has arrived, it is all about the outdoors. From the backyard to the park to the beach to the pool and everything in between.

That means a lot of running, jumping, climbing, and of course, walking. All of which depends on having proper footwear. You can expect to start of on the right foot in the wrong pair of shoes, especially not when you're only 2 1/2 years old.

Such is the case with my daughter. She is beyond active, and I worry about every thing that could possibly happen to hurt from tripping to slipping to getting a blister. I never want my daughter to feel pain, especially not if there is any way to avoid it.

So I was on the hunt to find her the perfect pair of shoes. That may seem like a simple task, but there are so many factors to consider. I obviously want them to be comfortable on her. they need to fit well and not rub or cause blisters, they need to stay on securely though, and have good traction so she does not slip in them or slide out of them.

It is important that the shoes be able to be played in obviously. I want to make sure they can handle all the activity she will put them through, shoes that get ruined by dirt or water are not going to work. And although it is less important than the function aspects, there is the point of style to consider. My daughter may be young, but she knows what she likes, and if she is not happy, good luck getting her to wear them.

Sounds like I'm wishing for something too good to be true, but guess what, I found all of those qualities in one incredible shoe, Clawz.

Not only are these shoes fun and unique, they are made from durable, comfortable, odor-resistant material, so they can take a beating and never miss a step(pun intended). Not only that but they have grips on the inside, so no slipping out and great tread on the bottom to keep her feet firmly on the ground, even when her head is in the clouds.

Best of all, she LOVES them. I could barely take the picture before she snatched them from me, and it seems like she has not taken them off since, although she actually has, but only briefly. She wears them everywhere, even in the house.

They are so perfect for outside play. We have used them in the back yard, climbing on our swingset, playing tag, and such. She wears them when we go on walks, and they are great on concrete and asphalt. They are great in soft sand and can easily be rinsed no matter what gets on them.

We are taking a mini getaway this weekend where we will be at the pool and the beach, and I cannot wait to have these along. Last time was a footwear nightmare trying flip flops. She got blisters and her feet slipped out several times. It was not good.

Now I just need to get a pair for my son. I wish I had done it in time for this trip as well, because I am going to regret not having them for him. I am still going to get him one right away though, because he loves hers and has tried to put them on multiple times. he doesn't care that they're pink and if they would fit him I know he'd never give them back. Good thing Clawz come in so many awesome colors.

Clawz are totally worth every cent, but it's always nice to save money, that's why I am so excited to share an exclusive coupon code with you all. Use Code andrea30 at checkout to receive 30% off your Claws. You also get free shipping on orders over $45. The coupon is good through May 20th. Happy shopping. I know you will love your new Clawz.

*Although I received these at no cost to facilitate a review, all opinions are 100% my own.*

Get In The Swing Of Baseball Season With Baby Fanatic

It's that time again. Baseball season is upon us, which means victories and losses, friendly (and not so friendly) team rivalries, pageantry, excitement an a whole lot of team spirit. If you are a fanatic like I am and my husband is, then you take team spirit to a whole new level. You wear it on your sleeve, literally, and anywhere else you can.

We are definitely proud fans, and having our clothes or accessories reflect that is important. Any chance we have to show our team loyalty, we take it. So when I saw that I could get MLB, NFL and other sports fan gear from Baby Fanatic I was super excited.

I wish I would have discovered this when my children were younger and still used bottle, pacifiers, bibs and all of the other cool items that Baby Fanatic offers. My little girl does use sippy cups though which just happens to be one of the great items available.

My daughter may not even know it yet, but she is a huge sports fan. Just being in this family makes her an inherent sports fan, and what better way for her to let that shine than with awesome fan gear sippy cups?

Since it is currently baseball season, of course, I went with hubby's and my team, the NY Yankees.

 

Now she can let her pinstripes show all season long. Of course I love the design, but I also love that they are BPA free and spill-proof. She spills enough already, so that helps me out a lot.

And although it's not football season yet, it always in in spirit in this house, so we had to get her NY Giants ones too.

She loves all of her new cups so much. Not only are they cute and new, but she feels special having something that no one else has. I told her they were her big girl cups, and she really likes that.

She's so proud of her cups. The fact that daddy loved them so much is what really makes her like them. He shows her his "matching" sports gear and she "watches" the games with us sometimes. It;s so fun sharing our passion with her and creating traditions. It's funny how something as simple as a plastic cup can be part of something so meaningful.

If you have a little sports fan in training, I highly recommend starting them off with Baby Fanatic. I am so impressed with their products and I know you will be to.

Be sure to check them out on Facebook too, so you never miss any of the action.

I'd love to know what team you support. Comment to show your team pride.

*Although I received these at no cost to facilitate a review, all opinions are 100% my own.*

SPRING FLING! Zipz Customs for Autism Awareness! Plus Enter to Win a Custom Pair!

Though the Spring Fling Blog Pop event is coming to a close, spring is only beginning. With the cold weather in the rear-view mirror, it's time to shove the boots back in the closet and break out the warm weather shoes.

I know that many people think of sandals for this. As much as I love sandals, I don't agree. To me, spring is all about enjoying the outdoors and being active. Sandals are just not practical for athletic activity(or chasing kids for that matter).

So in the spring I always rock my sneakers. Another great thing about spring is leaving all the drab and dreary tones behind and stepping into bright colors and fun, bold patterns. What better way to stand out then with a one of a kind pair of shoes?

Shoes are a girl's best friend after all. But if you have the right kind of shoe - over-the-top, nothing else like them, edgy, fun, rock star of a shoe - they can be a guys best friend too. It's rare when one style is applicable to both men and women, but Zipz is anything buy ordinary, and that is what makes them so awesome.

If you have never heard of Zipz shoes, you have already been missing out. Zipz are unisex sneakers that allow you to change up one pair into almost endless design choices by simply unzipping the covers and replacing them with new ones.

Not only does this save space, but it saves money. Now you don't have to buy a whole pair every time you want a new style. Better still, since the soles are the same no matter which covers you choose, you once you get a pair, you already know exactly how they fit, and you won't have to worry about sizing or breaking in a new pair each time.

Also, since they are the same exact height and such if you wanted to wear two different style shoes, you could do so in perfect comfort since structurally, the shoes would be exactly the same. What better way to really stand out. I know a lot of people who love to be more bold with their styles, and they love that aspect of Zipz.

As completely fantastic as the concept of Zipz Shoes is, it gets even better when you factor in the ability to create a completely custom pair thanks to Delta Custom. Not only can you swap covers as you see fit, but you can custom design your covers to be anything that you want. Want a purple penguin atop a rainbow? No problem. Want your kids' names and/or even photos of them? Sure thing. The possibilities are ENDLESS!

I had the incredible pleasure last year to create a pair of custom Zipz for my son, my husband and myself, in honor of Autism Awareness Month(since our son has autism). They are the most amazing shoes I have ever owned(or even seen).

I wrote a review on them, so if you want to see more pictures of these, you can do so here.

Since it is once again Autism Awareness Month, I could think of no better way to raise awareness,  celebrate spring, and take the Spring Fling Event to a new level of awesomeness than designing another pair of custom Zipz.

I was so full of ideas that is was both easy and very difficult to know what I wanted. I could think of so many things that would have looked amazing, but had a hard time narrowing it down to one final design. Such a hard time in fact, that I ended up with 2 designs unable to decide, so in addition to the review, I purchased another design I had come up with.

The ones I finally decided on to get myself and my husband(matching), are really awesome.

They will be the boldest shoes I've ever worn and I love that they will attract a ton of attention which will really help with raising awareness. I still get comments on my other pair all the time, and everyone who asks learns about autism, even if it is just the slightest bit in passing.

I cannot wait to get these so I can wear them everywhere and show off my design. The pic above was taken by Zipz before they shipped out, and I am even more anxious seeing how awesome they look as a finished product, because during the design process, you only see a proof.

These are much brighter than my husband is used to wearing, but I can't wait to see him fall in love with these as the cause is so near and dear to both of our hearts. For those that do not know about autism, the puzzle design is one of the signature symbols for autism. For some it represents the mystery and complexity of the disorder, for others it represents the mechanical nature of an autistic persons thought process. The bright colors are said to represent hope.

To me, it symbolizes that all people are part of the human puzzle. Without even one piece, the puzzle would be incomplete, and if all the pieces were the same, they would not fit together and would not be able to create any kind of picture. It also symbolizes that if we all work together, were can complete the puzzle(which is the mystery of autism's cause and treatments).

I chose the phrasing of "My son puts the AWE in autism" because in my mind it is completely true. While autism is nothing anyone would wish for, many see it is a crippling disorder and views individuals who have it as damaged in some way.

I hate that sort of thinking and I know that my son is still an incredible boy. He is (exceptionally)smart and funny. he is loving and kind, and he continues to amaze me with his progress and positive outlook on life. I think many "normal" people could learn a few lessons from those who struggle with autism(or any other disorder). Not only about seeing all people as equal(which my son does), but about pushing yourself and overcoming the limits that society sets for you.

The "Born to stand out" pretty much speaks for itself. My son is one of a kind. All people are, but in life people tend to get lumped together by stereotypes. there are the "normal" people, the "superior" people(celebrities, wealthy, etc), and their are those seen as outcasts, which by societies standards, my son would likely be. I couldn't possibly be any happier about that. I don't want him to be like everyone else, or even want to be. I want him to always be proud of who he is and be glad he stands out.

Here is the other design I was torn on.

I love these because they still stand out, but with the cleaner background, the message is easier to read. I also love the light bulb with autism puzzle piece. To me it is a reminder to always let your light shine on the world, whether you have autism or not.

I also like say it should serve as a reminder to enlighten yourself. If you don't know something about a disorder or any subject, you should never pass judgement about it. Blue is also the color of Autism Speaks which is one of the largest autism awareness organizations in the world.

Of course any design can be interpreted in any number of ways, and that is what I love about it. My design could possibly inspire someone in a way I never even intended. Keep your eyes out too, because you know I have to show these off when they arrive. I'd love to hear what you think about them.

Since designs can be so powerful, I want to give one of you the chance to design a pair of your own custom Zipz. This is an incredible prize that can end up being anything you want it to be. For your chance to win, enter below.

And be sure to check out all the other Spring Fling Giveaways from myself and my partner blogs HERE. Good luck!


*Although I received these at no cost to facilitate a review, all opinions are 100% my own.*
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SPRING FLING! California Delicious Review & GIVEAWAY!

The excitement of the Spring Fling Event continues. When I think of spring, a huge part of that to me is Easter. And an Easter celebration means a fabulous Easter basket. Whether you celebrate Easter or not though, everyone can appreciate a beautiful and delicious basket of treats.

California delicious is all about delicious gift baskets and Easter is just one facet of their incredible selection. I am a food lover, and if I have a basket of delicious gourmet foods, there is no stopping me, which is a serious risk to my waistline.

Thankfully, California Delicious has a great selection of baskets that are beautiful, delicious AND healthy. I chose the California Farmer's Market Gift Basket, and it was fantastic!

This basket is brimming with fresh, delicious, organic California fruit like Granny Smith and Red Delicious apples, Bartlet pears and Navel oranges.

In addition to the fabulous fruit, this basket also contains two organig gourmet cheeses and some stone ground wheat crackers.

I was so excited to did into this basket. Almost as excited as my daughter, so was swiping things at every opportunity.

Everything was so delicious. I loved being able to indulge in these tasty snacks without feeling guilty. All the fruit was ripe and sweet, and the cheeses were so creamy and flavorful. The crackers were fantastic. I enjoyed them with the cheeses and with some hummus, and I have been craving more of them ever since. I need to find somewhere to buy them.

I am so impressed with the quality and affordability of this basket. I am just looking for excuses now to buy more. Easter, flag day, talk like a pirate day, I don't care, every day is better with a little gourmet treat.

Whether you are looking for a fantastic Easter Basket, something to celebrate spring, an unforgettable gift or "just because" treat for yourself, I highly recommend California Delicious. And while I am partial to the fruit and healthier baskets, they have plenty with chocolates and other indulgent treats as well. There is something for everyone and then some.

One of my lucky readers will get to find out first hand how great their stuff is since we are giving away a $50 Gift Card good for anything from California Delicious. Enter below for your chance. Good luck.

Don't forget to check out all the other Spring Fling Giveaways from myself and my partner blogs HERE.

*Although I received this at no cost to facilitate a review, all opinions are 100% my own.*

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SPRING FLING! Hapari Swimwear review and $100 GC Giveaway!!

Not only is the weather heating up, but so are the giveaways in the Spring Fling Event. Here in Florida, our spring weather is hotter than some state's summers, and since we are a beach state, it's crucial to have proper swimwear. Truth be told, the thought of wearing a swimsuit causes me a great deal of terror and depression.

The biggest factor in this nightmare is the horrible options I was always forced to choose from. Swimsuit shopping is torture in itself, but when you're not a size 2 and you don't want all your blubber(or anything else for that matter) hanging out, it's hard to find a solution in isles upon isles of tiny bikinis. And on the rare chance to find something less revealing, it looks like your great grandma should be wearing it. It's impossible to find a good balance.

At least, it was impossible. Last year I discovered Hapari, and they changed the way I will buy swimwear forever. At first I was a bit nervous about buying online since I would not be able to try anything on, but everything was so stylish and the size chart seemed simple enough(even though I was like right between sizes) so I went for it.

I got a tankini dress and boy short bottoms and I felt covered and fashionable, it was perfect(as perfect as I can get with what god gave me). So now that Swim season is upon us again, I knew exactly where to go to get a slammin' new suit.

I had a very hard time choosing since there are so many incredible styles, but I finally settled on the Denim Tile Seaside Tankini and Swimdress and the White Drawstring Swim Skirt with Bottom.

They are both so fabulous. They go together perfectly. I do wish I could look like the women modeling them on the website, but I look better in this than I would in most any other suit. And as much as I hate to show pics, I want you to see how great this suit is(please don't mock too much).

The top can be tied up as such(almost any length) or won down as a swim dress/cover up, which I love.

While I won't be happy about wearing a suit, I will feel so much better in this one. I won't have to worry about spillage or anything, and it hides my flaws well. I love that Hapari offers modest suits that actually look good. Thank goodness for them or I'd be hitting the beach in a hoodie.

Anyone who struggles to find the perfect swim suit really needs to go with Hapari. They have everything you could want and more. That is why I am so excited to offer you all the chance to win a $100 gift card!! There can only be one winner, but it could be you, so enter below for your chance. Good luck!

And be sure to check out all the other Spring Fling Giveaways from myself and my partner blogs HERE.

*Although I received this suit at no cost to facilitate a review, all opinions are 100% my own.* a Rafflecopter giveaway

SPRING FLING! Bean Bag Chair Outlet Review & GIVEAWAY!!

The moment you've all been waiting for has arrived. The Spring Fling Blog Pop event is upon us. If you don''t know what that is or have not been anxiously waiting for it's arrival, that is a serious problem that, luckily, I am here to rectify.

Spring Fling is an event tat is hosted by myself and 10 other fantastic blogs. It is 4 days long starting today (April 9th) and ending on Saturday(April 12th). Each of the 4 days all 11 of us will each be posting a new giveaway(and review) on our respective sites, and there is a linky on each site(just go to the Spring Fling tab) that will bring you to all of the incredible giveaways.

All of the prizes are out of this world cool, so you are not going to want to miss any of them. Are you excited yet? I know that I am, so let's get down to the fun part. I decided to kick of the event with one of the hottest giveaways for our last Blog Pop Event. The Bean Bag Chair Outlet is back with an even bigger giveaway!

The giveaway will be for a GIANT XL Royal Sack!

I had the pleasure of reviewing this, and it is every bit as fantastic as I had hoped it would be. After reviewing the Large Royal Sack over the holidays, I already had a pretty good idea of what to expect. I new the quality would be superb and the comfort would be outstanding, but the size is even bigger and more impressive, and this velvety chocolate brown cover is so gorgeous.

Another thing that did not surprise me in the least is that my kids, especially my daughter, love it. My little girl immediately claimed our first Royal Sack, and this one quickly followed suit. As soon as she laid eyes on it, she claimed it as her own. "Tina's beanbag" she proclaimed, and proceeded to put her new possession on display(as if she was modeling it), and proceeded to lounge in it as well.

I can see why she loves it so much, it is seriously comfortable. If it was a little longer, I'd probably sleep in it. I know that she could, and probably would if I let her.

Any kid would love to have something so grand to call their own, but the XL Royal Sack is really a treat for the whole family. Not only will each individual member love to get cozy in this, it is perfect for increasing family togetherness. My husband or I and both of the kids can cuddle in this all at once.

It is perfect for Story time or movie night, and hubby and I like to watch movies together after the kids go to bed. The XL Royal Sack makes any seated activity better. When miss Diva allows me, I love to sit in the Royal Sack as I type up my reviews on my laptop. It certainly reduces my back pain that other seating frequently causes me.

None of us can get enough of the XL Royal Sack, and I love how gorgeous it is. It matches my couches, rug and decor, and goes great with my large Royal Sack as well. It is like an accent piece and visitors are always commenting on it.

Whether you are looking for a cozy family time spot, a throne for the man or woman of the house, a kids dream come true, a beautiful decoration or a mix of all of the above, the GIANT XL Royal Sack is perfect.

That is why I am so excited to give one of you lucky readers the change to win one. Just enter below for your chance win this incredible prize. Good luck!

And be sure to check out all the other giveaways HERE.

*Although I received this product at no cost to facilitate a review, all opinions are 100% my own.* a Rafflecopter giveaway