Playground for Parents

Giveaway! Cool Music from Rockabye Baby! TWO Winners!

Our baby is 16 months old.  And she listens to Queen, Guns n' Roses, and Aerosmith to go to sleep.  Her dad and I thought we'd expose her early to the soothing sounds of rock.  Makes great bedtime music, don't you think? 

 

Actually, it does!  Before you think I've completely lost my mind, allow me to explain.  And then allow me to offer this cool giveaway! 

 

Introducing:  Rockabye Baby! "transforms timeless rock songs into beautiful instrumental lullabies.  Guitars and drums are traded for soothing mellotrons, vibraphones and bells, and the volume is turned down from an eleven to a two... We have lullaby renditions of 25 artists including The Beatles, Nirvana and our most recent album is Lullaby Renditions of Aerosmith which features liner notes by Steven Tyler. We also just launched a new Download Card Gift Package which allows the recipient to download the album of their choice.  And coming very soon to their impressive lineup: Lullaby Renditions of Journey!

 

Genius!  Baby gets to listen to brain stimulating classical music, and you get to hear familiar tunes that won't put you to sleep right along with the baby!

 

When Rockabye Baby! contacted me about reviewing their product and hosting a giveaway, I jumped at the chance because I was just fascinated by the concept. Since my hubby is the one who puts the baby to sleep each night (hey, when else am I going to have time to work on this blog?!), I let him select the cd's for review.  It was the least I could do.  On the Queen cd are lullaby renditions of all-time favorites such as Bohemian Rhapsody, Another One Bites the Dust and We Are the Champions.  Our Aerosmith cd included the hits Dream On, Dude (Looks Like a Lady), and Walk This Way.  The Guns n' Roses compilation had classics such as Paradise City, Live and Let Die, and Knockin' On Heavens' Door.

 

Big Daddy's verdict:  two thumbs up. I think he got a kick out of entertaining himself while rocking the baby, playing his own version of Name That Tune to the lullaby cd. The best indication of how much he liked the cd's is the fact that he took the cd's to work and played them! Great sound but not distracting. Rock on, big daddy, rock on.

 

Wanna Buy It?  Go to Rockabyebabymusic.com and check out their great selection of lullabies of your favorite rock songs! You'll have the coolest kid in the crib!

 

Wanna Win It?  Rockabye Baby! is offering TWO very lucky winners their choice of cd!

 

Visit  www.rockabyebabymusic.com.  Leave a Comment telling me your favorite cd.   Comments must be received by 11:59pm (PST) on February 16th.  One winner will be selected by Random.org. Winner will be notified via email, and will be announced here.  Be sure to leave your email address so that I can contact you (and make sure it doesn't go to spam) - I'd hate for you to miss your prize. Winner has 48 hours to respond, or a new winner will be selected. Open to residents of U.S.  Good luck!

 

 Increase your chances to win!  For more entries, you can: 

1. Subscribe to my blog (located on the top, right side of this page).  After you've subscribed, leave three separate Comments for three entries! Are you already a Subscriber?  Just leave three Comments and say, "I subscribe!"
2. Blog about this Giveaway and link back to Playground for Parents.  Leave five separate Comments with the link to your post, for five entries!
3. Post my blog button on your site!  Leave five separate Comments with your blog link, for five entries!! 
4. Email a friend about this Giveaway and cc me: PlaygroundMail@aol.com. Leave a Comment for your one extra entry!
5. If you have Entrecard, drop your card on me, or advertise on my site! Just leave me a Comment and let me know you've done so.
6. Follow me on Twitter  AND tweet about the Giveaway! You can do this DAILY, for an entry each day! Just leave the link to your tweet in your comment each day!
7. Leave a comment on any NONgiveaway post on my blog, and come back here and let me know you did!
8. Follow Rockabye Baby! on Twitter.  Leave a Comment and let me know you've done so.

* Be sure to leave a Separate Comment for EACH entry. That's NINE total ways to enter this fantastic contest! 

Many thanks to Taylor for providing this great giveaway and review!

 

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE TWO LUCKY WINNERS, MARLA (#11) AND AMANDA (#123)!

 

Giveaway! Kids Shoes from U*neaks!

  
 
WHAT?! It has been almost two weeks since my last post?!  WHY has no one emailed me to make sure I was alive, that I had survived my overdose of shortbread cookies meant for Santa; that I survived two kids home on winter break while I continued to work, decorate, shop, host, un-decorate, and shop some more (you WILL see my lighted house from space next Christmas)?  Well, just to convince you that there's no hard feelings...and to diminish some of my guilt, I'm kicking off the NEW YEAR with some NEW KICKS for the kids! Something adorable to start their year off on the right foot (I'll stop now).  Something they'll probably appreciate much more than that itchy sweater they got from Grandma for Christmas.

Introducing:  Fun and fabulous shoes from U*neaks.  "Kids shoes with windows and socks with fun and fashionable designs, so that you can change the look of your shoes by changing your socks. All our socks are double sided, so that you get two appearances from each pair of socks by simply switching your socks from one foot to the other. Pair the shoes and socks to unleash your imagination, match your mood and express your style.  U*neaks are more than just unique shoes and socks, they are a window into a world of fun."

 

Now, I was unable to review U*neaks personally, because my big kid is too big for them, and my little kid is, well, too little.  Bummer. BUT, I thought the concept was so original and the shoes so cool, that I still wanted to feature them here. I sent an email out to the mommy support group I belong to - and let's just say, I've never seen these chicks respond that fast. Within seconds of my request looking for someone to review these shoes, I had eager mamas hitting their reply button.  The first to respond:  Terica, who had actually already heard about U*neaks from a mom at karate class.  She selected the Camel Rev style (top photo) for her son, and was also given two adorable and hip pairs of socks.  Here's what Terica had to say...

 

The shoes were A HIT with my kid!!!  He loves them and the fact that EVERYONE, not just him, can see his "cool socks" as he put it.  First of all, he was already a sock person believe it or not.  He always has to get whatever socks they have in the $1 section at Target. He now has every color, character and design his heart desires.  So, the fact that he can share the cool socks through the cool shoes, he LOVES!!  He was asleep when I got home Sunday so he saw them when he woke up Monday morning and of course he wanted to wear them to school.....pause....its raining....5 minute argument on why he cant and he finally put on his rain boots.   When he got home he INSISTED on "trying them on" WITH his favorite army print sweater which happen to match a pair...needless to say...the shoes are great.  Good quality and comfort (he says).  He wanted to personally come to your house and thank you for the cool shoes ....but I kinda....told him you were not home and that we could take a picture instead...lol!!  its attached.  Oh, he may like the socks more than the shoes.....he's been wearing them since he put them on.....MONDAY!!!!  I guess that means they are comfortable...and of course, cool :).  Thanks Again Nina

 

See for yourself how these clever shoes work:

 

Wanna Buy It?  Check out the fun styles of shoes and socks at U*neaks.  And now get free shipping on orders over $20!

 

Wanna Win It?  U*neaks is offering one lucky reader a pair of girl or boy shoes, PLUS two pairs of socks!

 

Visit  www.uneaks.com.  Leave a Comment telling me your favorite shoe style for your boy or girl.   Comments must be received by 11:59pm (PST) on January 22nd.  One winner will be selected by Random.org. Winner will be notified via email, and will be announced here.  Be sure to leave your email address so that I can contact you (and make sure it doesn't go to spam) - I'd hate for you to miss your prize. Winner has 48 hours to respond, or a new winner will be selected. Open to residents of U.S.  Good luck!

 

 Increase your chances to win!  For more entries, you can: 

1. Subscribe to my blog (located on the top, right side of this page).  After you've subscribed, leave three separate Comments for three entries! Are you already a Subscriber?  Just leave three Comments and say, "I subscribe!"
2. Blog about this Giveaway and link back to Playground for Parents.  Leave five separate Comments with the link to your post, for five entries!
3. Post my blog button on your site!  Leave five separate Comments with your blog link, for five entries!! 
4. Email a friend about this Giveaway and cc me: PlaygroundMail@aol.com. Leave a Comment for your one extra entry!
5. If you have Entrecard, drop your card on me, or advertise on my site! Just leave me a Comment and let me know you've done so.
6. Follow me on Twitter  AND tweet about the Giveaway! You can do this DAILY, for an entry each day! Just leave the link to your tweet in your comment each day!
7. Leave a comment on any NONgiveaway post on my blog, and come back here and let me know you did!
8. Become a friend of U*neaks facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Uneaks/59362069476

* Be sure to leave a Separate Comment for EACH entry. That's NINE total ways to enter this fantastic contest! 

Many thanks to Jeff for providing this great giveaway and review!

 

CONGRATULATIONS TO LUCKY WINNER, MAMI2JCN (#7)!

 

Giveaway! Personalized Christmas Ornament!

I know, I can't stand it either.  You still haven't decided on your Thanksgiving menu, and the stores are already playing Christmas carols, over and over and over. Allow me to take it one step further - I JUST took our Halloween decor off the front porch over the weekend.  OK, so Christmas is coming whether we're ready or not. Gotta get it in gear.  Quick: tell me  two things EVERY home with kids has at Christmas time. I think it's like a requirement of parenting...

 

Time's up.  The answer: 1. a personalized stocking for every member of the family, including the dog, and 2. a personalized ornament with everyone's name, including the dog.  What's that you say? YOU don't have the personalized ornament?! Oh the shame. WHAT will the moms at playgroup say?!  As usual, I'm here to help, mama, with a great website that offers a wide variety of personalized ornaments for your family.  And even your dog.

 

Introducing:  PersonalizedFree.com.  An amazing selection of ornaments that can be personalized for families of 2, up to families of 10 or more (yep, even Octomom can get one done).  The company has been in business online for 10 proud years, and is a family run, home-based operation.  Each ornament is personalized by hand with precision and love by a member of the stay-at-home mom and dad team. Ahhh. Now that's just as sweet as a candycane.

 

When I was recently contacted and asked if I'd like to conduct a review and giveaway on their products, I jumped at the chance.  Sadly, I was one of those few moms who didn't yet have the personalized ornament hanging from the tree.  PersonalizedFree.com fixed that for me, quickly, and cutely!  Choosing from their vast selection was the toughest part of the process. Ultimately, I chose the Gingerbread House (pictured here). Adorable, right?  It was personalized just as I ordered, and was just as cute in person.  My 8 year old loved it. Getting the ornament was the easy part. Now I have to put up the actual tree...

 

Wanna Buy It?  Visit www.PersonalizedFree.com and check out their vast selection of ornaments with people, snowmen, animals, autos and more.  Purchase now and get 10% off by using code blogtree10 at checkout!  Free shipping on orders of $60 or more!

 

Wanna Win It?  PersonalizedFree.com is offering one very lucky reader an opportunity to win their own personalized ornament!  Check out their site to choose the one you'd want!

 

To enter, you MUST visit www.PersonalizedFree.com (even if you're a subscriber). Leave a Comment telling me the ornament you'd like to hang on your tree.  Browse, take your time, and choose carefully!  * If you win, the ornament you mentioned in your comment will be your prize!  Comments must be received by 11:59pm (PST) on November 25th.  One winner will be selected by Random.org. Winner will be notified via email, and will be announced here.  Be sure to leave your email address so that I can contact you (and make sure it doesn't go to spam) - I'd hate for you to miss your prize. Winner has 48 hours to respond, or a new winner will be selected. Open to residents of U.S. only.  Good luck!

 

 Increase your chances to win!  For more entries, you can: 

1. Subscribe to my blog (located on the top, right side of this page).  After you've subscribed, leave three separate Comments for three entries! Are you already a Subscriber?  Just leave three Comments and say, "I subscribe!"
2. Blog about this Giveaway and link back to Playground for Parents.  Leave five separate Comments with the link to your post, for five entries!
3. Post my blog button on your site!  Leave five separate Comments with your blog link, for five entries!! 
4. Email a friend about this Giveaway and cc me: PlaygroundMail@aol.com. Leave a Comment for your one extra entry!
5. If you have Entrecard, drop your card on me, or advertise on my site! Just leave me a Comment and let me know you've done so.
6. Follow me on Twitter  AND tweet about the Giveaway! You can do this DAILY, for an entry each day! Just leave the link to your tweet in your comment each day!
7. Leave a comment on any NONgiveaway post on my blog, and come back here and let me know you did!
8. Subscribe to the PersonalizedFree.com blog: www.theornamenthouse.com.
9. Become a PersonalizedFree.com Facebook fan: www.facebook.com/personalizedfree.
10. Follow PersonalizedFree.com on Twitter, and tweet about this giveaway: www.twitter.com/pfreeornaments.
11. Sign up for the PersonalizedFree.com newsletter (link can be found on their website).

* Be sure to leave a Separate Comment for EACH entry. That's TWELVE total ways to enter this fantastic contest! 

Many thanks to Cinde for providing this great giveaway and review!

 

Congratulations to lucky winner, Monica (#1)!

 

 

Giveaway! Ride-On Toy, the Skitter!

I REALLY wanted to save this one for a Christmas holiday giveaway, but I just couldn't wait (yea, I'm not good with surprise parties either). OK, let's be honest, as a blogger/product reviewer, it's a feel-good moment when you contact a company, ask if they'd like to sponsor a review/giveaway, and they agree. But, when the company contacts YOU first, AND you happen to love their product - oh boy, THAT is a FANTASTIC feeling (like one of those "they like me, they really like me" moments). And that's just the feeling I got when contacted about the Skitter.  Here's one for boys and girls, young and old. And when no one is looking, it's for mom and dad too...

 

Introducing:  Skitter, ride-on toy. Fun. Fabulous. Unique. A must-have on the holiday shopping list, in your your kid's favorite color.  It moves, it glides, it turns, and best of all, it doesn't require a dozen D-size batteries that have to be replaced monthly.  Your child simply moves the steering wheel back and forth, and they're off. Genius!  The suggested weight capacity is a whopping 150 pounds, but goes all the way up to 220 pounds with the upgraded wheels. Here it is, in action...

 

 

We were asked to review the Skitter, and chose the fabulous red because...OK, OK because it's my favorite color.  My eight year old was beside herself.  There was no assembly required - it was out the box, and she was on the seat. In a few quick moments, she got the hang of how it operated, and was driving across our wooden floor. I loved the way it looked.  She loved the way it moved.  Then I gave it a try and reluctantly gave it back.  If we had two, there would've been some racing going on for sure.

 

Better yet, if YOU get one, I'll race ya.

 

Wanna Buy It?  Check out the awesome Skitter website, and the great color selection. I dare you to keep it in the box until the holidays!

 

Wanna Win It?  Some lucky boy or girl (or, um, mom or dad) is getting a brand new Skitter!

 

Visit www.skittertoys.com.  Leave a Comment telling me your favorite color of Skitter.  Comments must be received by 11:59pm (PST) on November 16th.  One winner will be selected by Random.org. Winner will be notified via email, and will be announced here.  Be sure to leave your email address so that I can contact you (and make sure it doesn't go to spam) - I'd hate for you to miss your prize. Winner has 48 hours to respond, or a new winner will be selected. Open to residents of U.S.  Good luck!

 

 Increase your chances to win!  For more entries, you can: 

1. Subscribe to my blog (located on the top, right side of this page).  After you've subscribed, leave three separate Comments for three entries! Are you already a Subscriber?  Just leave three Comments and say, "I subscribe!"
2. Blog about this Giveaway and link back to Playground for Parents.  Leave five separate Comments with the link to your post, for five entries!
3. Post my blog button on your site!  Leave five separate Comments with your blog link, for five entries!! 
4. Email a friend about this Giveaway and cc me: PlaygroundMail@aol.com. Leave a Comment for your one extra entry!
5. If you have Entrecard, drop your card on me, or advertise on my site! Just leave me a Comment and let me know you've done so.
6. Follow me on Twitter  AND tweet about the Giveaway! You can do this DAILY, for an entry each day! Just leave the link to your tweet in your comment each day!
7. Leave a comment on any NONgiveaway post on my blog, and come back here and let me know you did!

* Be sure to leave a Separate Comment for EACH entry. That's EIGHT total ways to enter this fantastic contest! 

Many thanks to Michael for providing this great giveaway and review!

 

CONGRATULATIONS TO LUCKY WINNER, TIM (#554!

 

Giveaway! Kids Clothing from happygreenbee!

 
I told you I was bringing you something happy, and I promise that this won't disappoint. "Happy" is even a part of their name, so you know it's gotta bring some joy!  The latest great giveaway item on the Playground is soft, thick, bright and fun, and simply adorable.  We're planning to get some great use out of it this winter, and look fashionable while we're at it!

 

Introducing:  happygreenbee. Doesn't the name just conjure up images of fun and frolic, smiles and giggles?  This latest website find is a treasure of organic cotton kids and baby clothing, in bright colors and fun patterns.  Their philosophy is evident in their product:   happygreenbee has a simple philosophy: clothing that is comfortable, colorful, playful and ecologically responsible. "We created Happy Green Bee so that a child can be a child, first and foremost," Quimby explains. "By using organic cotton, a comfortable and practical fabric, and simple bee-striped patterns, children feel as comfortable as they look while their parents take a small step in making a big difference in the environment their children live in."

 

happygreenbee sent Munchkin a Reversible Hoodie in "watermelon" to review (top photo).  The quality is wonderful and the sizing is generous. Worn over her flare jeans, she's the hippest kid in daycare.  Best of all, I just love that it's organic cotton touching my little one's skin.

 

The history behind the company is a fascinating one. Makes me want to pack a duffle bag and hike the Himalayas.  While your cruising their great clothing selection on their website, be sure to check out the History link, and find out the buzz about happygreenbee's beginnings, including the affiliation with the mega-company you've all heard of, Burt's Bees!

 

And here's the news you've been waiting for in this post:  happygreenbee has generously offered to giveaway a stylish hoodie to one of my super-fab readers!  Your choice of color!  Here's more about this fantastic item:  "Our 100% organic cotton reversible hoodie is an “easy on-easy off” pullover classic, suitable for the most squirmy little sport! No buttons, zippers, or drawstrings….just two layers of ultra soft interlock, organic cotton fully fashioned for an easy fit. A great cover up over a bathing suit or mix and match with your jeans or our solid leggings for a fashion forward look. Don’t let a grape juice spill spoil the day! Just reverse the hoodie from the inside out and you’re good to go!!"

Wanna Buy It?  Go to www.happygreenbee.com.  Check out the fun and fabulous selection of organic clothing in various styles and colors.

 

Wanna Win It?  Of COURSE you do! One lucky reader will win their very own hoodie of choice!

 

Visit www.happygreenbee.com.  Leave a Comment telling me your favorite item, or something you discovered from their History link!  Comments must be received by 11:59pm (PST) on November 6th.  One winner will be selected by Random.org. Winner will be notified via email, and will be announced here.  Be sure to leave your email address so that I can contact you (and make sure it doesn't go to spam) - I'd hate for you to miss your prize. Winner has 48 hours to respond, or a new winner will be selected. Open to residents of U.S. and Canada Good luck!

 

 Increase your chances to win!  For more entries, you can: 

1. Subscribe to my blog (located on the top, right side of this page).  After you've subscribed, leave three separate Comments for three entries! Are you already a Subscriber?  Just leave three Comments and say, "I subscribe!"
2. Blog about this Giveaway and link back to Playground for Parents.  Leave five separate Comments with the link to your post, for five entries!
3. Post my blog button on your site!  Leave five separate Comments with your blog link, for five entries!! 
4. Email a friend about this Giveaway and cc me: PlaygroundMail@aol.com. Leave a Comment for your one extra entry!
5. If you have Entrecard, drop your card on me, or advertise on my site! Just leave me a Comment and let me know you've done so.
6. Follow me on Twitter  AND tweet about the Giveaway! You can do this DAILY, for an entry each day! Just leave the link to your tweet in your comment each day!
7. Leave a comment on any NONgiveaway post on my blog, and come back here and let me know you did!

* Be sure to leave a Separate Comment for EACH entry. That's EIGHT total ways to enter this fantastic contest! 

Many thanks to Mari for providing this giveaway and review!

 

CONGRATULATIONS TO LUCKY WINNER, REBECCA (#164)!

 

Birthday Bash Winners!

I had a blast hosting the Birthday Bash, and I hope you had fun too!  You gals suggested great birthday planning tips, and shared some pretty, um, entertaining memories of parties past.  Your next party is now going to be an easy piece of cake, right?!  Right.  OK, so I'm no fool - I know the giveaway bash is MOST fun for the actual winners of the giveaways. And HERE THEY ARE...

$50 Gift Certicate from BirthdayExpress.com:  #176, Tracy!

Personalized Confetti from Pink Poodle Boutique:  #83, Tori!

$25 Gift Certificate from Beau-Coup:  #411, Kathy!

$30 Gift Certificate from Karen's Cookies:  #29, Gloria!

Giant Fortune Cookie from Lady Fortunes:  #36, Naddez!

Zhu Zhu Pet:  #5, Crystal!

CONGRATULATIONS, you party animals!  All winners have been notified via direct email.  Please be sure to respond to the email within 48 hours, or a new winner will be selected (which is what everyone who didn't win is hoping for!).

Giveaway! Clothing from I Am A Girl Designs!

Say it LOUD, "I'm a girl and I'm PROUD!"  My daughter is a mini scholar, and I burst with pride at her many academic accomplishments. She is also a budding athlete, and I burst with fits of screaming, yelling, and other embarrassing antics at her sporting competitions. When she's wearing her team uniform, she's representing her love, hard work, and commitment to her sport. And when she's wearing a cool shirt from "I am a Girl" Designs, she's showing the love too.

 

Introducing:  "I am a Girl" Designs.  Sweatshirts, t-shirts and tanks just for the little ladies, who temporarily toss aside their favorite stuffed animal to ROCK IT at their favorite sport. The clothing is fun and inspiring, with an adorable stick figure graphic engaged in everything from soccer, cheer, basketball, and more. 

 

A bit about their powerful business motto:   “I am a Girl” Designs  wants to encourage all "Girls" to celebrate what they love.  "I am a Girl" Designs is dedicated to helping develop strong, smart, spectacular young "Girls" with unshakable confidence. An "I am a Girl" can define her character by celebrating her passions and at "I am a Girl" Designs one can show their passion for Soccer, Softball, Dance, Swimming or other sports & hobbies they love by sporting “I am a Girl” apparel.  My passion for design helped me bring “I am a Girl” Designs to life and it’s my dream that through my adventure with this company that other girls will be inspired to show their passion and be empowered to:  "Take that Passion and make it  Happen".

 

"I am a Girl" Designs sent my daughter their "I am a running girl" sweatshirt to review. Love it! The sweatshirt is thick, comfy, roomy, and high quality. Of course, most important to my daughter, it looks cool too. She can't wait until it gets cold enough to show it off on the track this coming season.

 

Take my word for it that the photos on the website don't really reflect how cute these shirts are. Don't have a girl? I'm betting that you know one, and I'm betting you hear from her parents about every goal she has scored. Great as a gift, or a reward for the sporting season. Think I can get them to create one that says "I am a hot mom?"

 

Wanna Buy It?  Go to "I am a Girl" Designs Check out the wonderful selection of sports and hobby themed shirts, in various styles and colors. And just for you, my beloved readers, get 20% off your purchase by using the following inser code, until 10/20/09: http://www.iamagirldesigns.com/?code=PFP

 

Wanna Win It?  Of COURSE you do! One lucky reader will win their very own shirt of choice!

 

 

Visit www.iamagirldesigns.com.  Leave a Comment telling me your favorite item. Comments must be received by 11:59pm (PST) on October 14th.  One winner will be selected by Random.org. Winner will be notified via email, and will be announced here.  Be sure to leave your email address so that I can contact you (and make sure it doesn't go to spam) - I'd hate for you to miss your prize. Winner has 48 hours to respond, or a new winner will be selected. Open to residents of U.S. and Canada Good luck!

 

 Increase your chances to win!  For more entries, you can: 

1. Subscribe to my blog (located on the top, right side of this page).  After you've subscribed, leave three separate Comments for three entries! Are you already a Subscriber?  Just leave three Comments and say, "I subscribe!"
2. Blog about this Giveaway and link back to Playground for Parents.  Leave five separate Comments with the link to your post, for five entries!
3. Post my blog button on your site!  Leave five separate Comments with your blog link, for five entries!! 
4. Email a friend about this Giveaway and cc me: PlaygroundMail@aol.com. Leave a Comment for your one extra entry!
5. If you have Entrecard, drop your card on me, or advertise on my site! Just leave me a Comment and let me know you've done so.
6. Follow me on Twitter  AND tweet about the Giveaway! You can do this DAILY, for an entry each day! Just leave the link to your tweet in your comment each day!
7. Leave a comment on any NONgiveaway post on my blog, and come back here and let me know you did!

* Be sure to leave a Separate Comment for EACH entry. That's EIGHT total ways to enter this fantastic contest! 

 

Reminder:  Check the top corner of this page for other fantastic Giveaways! Hurry, they end soon!

Many thanks to Dori for providing this giveaway and review!

 

CONGRATULATIONS TO LUCKY WINNER, CRYSTAL (#83)!

 

Giveaway: Gourmet Stuffed Pretzels from Kim and Scott's!

You've been through the boxes of Cheez-Its, the Goldfish, and the graham crackers. They are the required snacks of childhood. And you couldn't be more bored. Prepare to awaken the snacking taste buds of both you and your child...

 

Introducing: Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels. Soft, fresh, filling and satisfying...and stuffed with a variety of delicious flavors. These gourmet pretzels are all natural, twisted by hand and made from scratch - and it shows. You get all the good stuff without all the bad - no trans fats, no hydrogenated oils, no preservatives.

 

We were sent an amazing Variety Sampler of the following pretzels to review:

 

6 oz. Apple Cinnamon Pretzels
6 oz. Original Cheesecake Pretzel
6 oz. Mixed Berry Cobbler Pretzel
6 oz. Chocolate Crumb Pretzel
6 oz. Cinnamon Roll Pretzel
6 oz. Pizza Pretzel Pretzel
6 oz. Cheese Lover's Pretzel
6 oz. Spinach Feta Pretzel
6 oz. Grilled Cheese Pretzel
6 oz. Cream Cheese Pretzel

 

Seriously tempting, right? It's really hard to choose my favorite, but Id have to go with the Spinach Feta and Cream Cheese Pretzel. Or maybe it was the Chocolate. We enjoyed them all! And the portion size is significant. The preparation couldn't be quicker - just put them in the microwave. Trust me when I say that these delights do not get gooey or chewy like some microwaved bread products. The texture and consistency were perfect.

 

The story of success behind these twisted gourmet treats:  "Since 1995, Kim and Scott Holstein, co-founders of Kim & Scott’s Gourmet Pretzels, have grown their business from the kitchen in Kim’s studio apartment to a national presence selling millions of pretzels each week via grocery store chains like Albertsons, Wild Oats and Whole Foods.  In addition, their pretzels can be found at Borders Books & Music, Barnes & Noble, and via regular appearances on QVC, where they sold more than 150,000 pretzels in just 12 minutes when they debuted on the network. They have also been named “entrepreneurs to watch” by Entrepreneur Magazine...Kim & Scott’s bakery is located in Chicago. and the first-ever Pretzel Bakery & Twisting Café is located at Kohl Children’s Museum of greater Chicago."  All their well-deserved notoriety - they're definitely doing something right.

 

It's a new school year. It's time for some new snacks. Except I dare you to share your gourmet stuffed pretzels with your kids.  

 

Wanna But It?  Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels can be found in the frozen foods section of the grocery store. Click here to find a store near you!

 

Wanna Win It? You know that mouth-watering list of pretzel varieties that I mentioned above? Yea, that's the one. A lucky reader will win their own Original Variety Sampler pack from Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels!

 

 

Come out to play with a Giveaway!

 

Visit www.kimandscotts.com. Leave a Comment telling me your favorite flavor. Comments must be received by 11:59pm (PST) on October 7th.  One winner will be selected by Random.org. Winner will be notified via email, and will be announced here.  Be sure to leave your email address so that I can contact you (and make sure it doesn't go to spam) - I'd hate for you to miss your prize. Winner has 48 hours to respond, or a new winner will be selected. Open to residents of U.S. Good luck!

 

 Increase your chances to win!  For more entries, you can: 

1. Subscribe to my blog (located on the top, right side of this page).  After you've subscribed, leave three separate Comments for three entries! Are you already a Subscriber?  Just leave three Comments and say, "I subscribe!"
2. Blog about this Giveaway and link back to Playground for Parents.  Leave five separate Comments with the link to your post, for five entries!
3. Post my blog button on your site!  Leave five separate Comments with your blog link, for five entries!! 
4. Email a friend about this Giveaway and cc me: PlaygroundMail@aol.com. Leave a Comment for your one extra entry!
5. If you have Entrecard, drop your card on me, or advertise on my site! Just leave me a Comment and let me know you've done so.
6. Follow me on Twitter  AND tweet about the Giveaway! You can do this DAILY, for an entry each day! Just leave the link to your tweet in your comment each day!
7. Leave a comment on any NONgiveaway post on my blog, and come back here and let me know you did!

* Be sure to leave a Separate Comment for EACH entry. That's EIGHT total ways to enter this fantastic contest! 

 

Reminder:  Check the top corner of this page for other fantastic Giveaways! Hurry, they end soon!

Many thanks to Krista for providing this giveaway and review!

 

CONGRATULATIONS TO LUCKY WINNER, LAURA (#57)!

 

Birthday Bash Giveaway #6: Toy from Zhu Zhu Pets!

Some of you have been visiting my blog long enough to know about our pet bunny. She was a surprise Easter gift to my daughter, from my husband.  Yep. A bunny, that I would have to catch on several occasions during the past few months when she escaped, or my daughter got freaked out. You want to surprise us, plan a weekend vacation or bake a cake. My husband wouldn't have been sent to the doghouse if he had just gotten my daughter a Zhu Zhu Pet instead.

OK, back to my Birthday Bash! You've decided on a theme, purchased the party supplies, assembled the favors, and now for that special gift for the birthday boy OR girl - their very own pet that you don't have to feed, bathe, vaccinate, or flush down the toilet when it's floating belly up!

 

Introducing:  Zhu Zhu Pets. It's the next best thing to a real pet. They are realistic (like freakishly realistic) battery-operated hamsters with their own fun-filled habitat! The hamsters chatter, purr and coo, explore, run around and play, and go to sleep, all with the press of a button. Over twelve add-ons are available for their extensive hamsterworld. And get this: the batteries are included! FINALLY!

 

MomSelect arranged for my family to review two adorable Zhu Zhu Pets, and included the Go Go Adventure Ball, Surfboard and Sleep Dome, Skateboard, Car and Garage, Hamster Wheel and Tunnel, and Slide/Ramp. Wow, life must be nice in hamsterworld. The parts were easy enough for my eight year old to assemble by herself. She couldn't wait to try it out, and had a blast playing with the two hamsters and all the accessories. More fun than she's ever had with that bunny eating up our garden in the backyard.

 

Your kid said he wanted a pet for his birthday? I just bought you a little time, mama.

 

Wanna Buy It?  Zhu Zhu Pets are available now at Toys R Us, Walmart, and Amazon!

 

Wanna Win It? One very lucky reader will win a Zhu Zhu Pet and the fun slide/ramp!

 

Open to residents of U.S.

 

HOW TO PARTY AT THE BIRTHDAY BASH:

 

INITIAL ENTRY:  Visit www.zhuzhupets.com. Leave a comment here about your favorite play accessory on their website!

 

You can do as many of the following as you like: 

 

DAILY ENTRIES

 

ONE DAILY ENTRY:  Comment here about anything related to birthday planning, mishaps, or memories! Leave a comment up to once daily!

 

ONE DAILY ENTRY:  Follow NinasPlayground on Twitter and Tweet about this giveaway up to once daily!  Comment here with a link to your Tweet.

 

BONUS ENTRIES

 

ONE BONUS ENTRY:  Comment on any NONgiveaway post on my blog. Come back here and leave a comment letting me know you did!

 

TWO BONUS ENTRIES:  Email a mama friend about this giveaway and cc me: PlaygroundMail@aol.com.  Leave a comment for your extra entry!

 

THREE BONUS ENTRIES:  Subscribe to my blog (see upper right sidebar)! If you're already a subscriber, that counts too! Leave 3 separate comments here.

 

FIVE BONUS ENTRIES:  Grab my NEW Playground for Parents button and put it on your blog! Leave 5 separate comments here.

 

SEVEN BONUS ENTRIES:  Blog about this giveaway and leave 7 separate comments with the URL here.

 

Giveaway ends at 11:59pm PST on October 9th.

 

 

 

Many thanks to MomSelect and Zhu Zhu Pets for this fantastic Review and Giveaway!

 

Birthday Bash Giveaway #5: Sweets from Lady Fortunes!

Do you hear that? It's the sound of me smacking. Ladies (and a few gentlemen), I'm so tickled about this find, that I can barely hold the treat in one hand while typing with the other. Chocolate...covered...Oreos. With my beautiful daughter's face on them. I know, I know. Can you stand it? Personalized Oreos. What will they think of next? Evidently, they've thought of it all...

 

Introducing:  Lady Fortunes. Just go to their site really quickly and then come back here. You've GOT to see their stuff, from picture cookies, to giant fortune cookies, gourmet pretzels, belgian chocolate picture grahams, picture rice krispie treats, and much, much more..

 

OK, now that you're back, what did you think? Makes you want to have a party, huh? Or send a gift to someone for absolutely no reason at all.

 

Lady Fortunes offered to send me my item of choice to celebrate Munchkin's party. They suggested their Giant Picture Krispie Sheet with custom picture, which I knew our little party guests would LOVE to devour (because cake and pinata candy are NOT enough celebratory sweets to put in their belly). Now, you know I love my chocolate, so I also received their Chocolate Dipped Oreo Picture Cookies (they can also add your company logo!), AND their Picture Fortune Cookies.

 

I chose a photo of Munchkin's face as an infant for the Oreos and fortune cookies, and a photo of her crawling for the Giant Krispie Sheet. I prayed that the items would look as great as they were described on the website. Lady Fortunes did not disappoint. I couldn't wait to show them off at the party. Seriously, who had seen these special treats before now?! Everything was almost too cute to eat. But, whatever, that's what pictures are for. So, after I tasted my due sample of the delicious cookies, I put some in a cello bag as one of the prizes for my adult party game (yes, I make the adults play games at my kid's parties).

 

Lady Fortunes has been featured on The Food Network, Good Morning America, Entertainment Tonight, in numerous magazines, and now on the Playground. They have a huge celebrity following, and have been featured in high end retail stores like Neiman Marcus. I must've made the big time.

 

The owner of Lady Fortunes is a mama, who brings her baby son to work, with a play/learning room in her office. Sounds like my ideal job, surrounded by my baby, and chocolate.

 

Now you can surround yourself with delicious personalized sweets, that will have your party guests saying "oooh," "ahhh," and "yum!"  You're on your way to Hostess of the Year.

 

Wanna Buy It?  Visit Lady Fortunes for an unbelievable array of specialized goodies. Trust me, you never knew so much stuff could be covered in chocolate, and have your cute photo on it!  

 

Wanna Win It?  Lady Fortunes is offering one very lucky reader a special sweet treat! Win a Giant White Chocolate Heart Sprinkles Fortune Cookie with a Sweetheart Message inside!

 

Open to residents of U.S.

 

HOW TO PARTY AT THE BIRTHDAY BASH:

 

INITIAL ENTRY:  Visit www.ladyfortunes.com. Leave a comment here about your favorite item on their website!

 

You can do as many of the following as you like: 

 

DAILY ENTRIES

 

ONE DAILY ENTRY:  Comment here about anything related to birthday planning, mishaps, or memories! Leave a comment up to once daily!

 

ONE DAILY ENTRY:  Follow NinasPlayground on Twitter and Tweet about this giveaway up to once daily!  Comment here with a link to your Tweet.

 

BONUS ENTRIES

 

ONE BONUS ENTRY:  Comment on any NONgiveaway post on my blog. Come back here and leave a comment letting me know you did!

 

TWO BONUS ENTRIES:  Email a mama friend about this giveaway and cc me: PlaygroundMail@aol.com.  Leave a comment for your extra entry!

 

THREE BONUS ENTRIES:  Subscribe to my blog (see upper right sidebar)! If you're already a subscriber, that counts too! Leave 3 separate comments here.

 

FIVE BONUS ENTRIES:  Grab my NEW Playground for Parents button and put it on your blog! Leave 5 separate comments here.

 

SEVEN BONUS ENTRIES:  Blog about this giveaway and leave 7 separate comments with the URL here.

 

Giveaway ends at 11:59pm PST on October 9th.

 

 

 

Many thanks to Heeda and Linda, for this fantastic Review and Giveaway!