Last Day to Enter! $45 to CSN Stores

Don't forget to enter now for your chance to win a $45 gift certificate from CSN Stores. The winner will be selected tonight at 10 pm. EST. Bon Chance!

Personalized Letters & Accessories {Review/Giveaway}

This giveaway is now closed.

As the owner of two small businesses and mama to 4 busy little bees, I'm always thrilled to help a fellow mom-preneur get the word out about her growing product line. Today I have the pleasure of introducing you to Melisa, the mama and new business woman behind Personalized Letters & Accessories. Melisa specializes in personalized items, including letters, tutus, hair accessories, pillowcase dresses, and dining sets.

I recently received this festive Candy Corn Tutu and matching bow from Melisa's Autumn inspired collection to test and review. I regret that the pics I have for you are without my sweet little model, but once dolled up in her new duds, The Bean was in no mood to sit still and pose for pics! She had a wonderful time twirling and playing in her fluffy tutu and was enamored with her reflection in the glass of the kitchen door. As the mama of an active toddler, I appreciated the fact that the elastic in the tutu and the embellishments were securely sewn to provide a firm attachment and added durability.

Buy It: Interested in purchasing some sweet personalized items for the special munchkin in your life? Stop by HERE to learn more about Melisa's growing line-up.

Win It: Melisa has generously offered one lucky Bullfrogs & Butterflies Baby reader their choice of a custom tutu or personalized spill proof cup (sippy and straw varieties available).

To Enter: (mandatory) Stop by Personalized Letters & Accessories and take a look around. Then, come back here and let me know what caught your eye!

Extra Entries: Please leave a separate comment for each. Make sure to leave your email address if not visible in your profile so I can let you know if you win:

1. Follow my blog with google friend connect (2 extra entries)
2. Follow me on Twitter and leave me your twitter id
3. Tweet about this giveaway mentioning @ElliaCNaturals and leave the link (once per day)
4. Like Ellia C. Naturals on Facebook (our all-natural bath & body shop) and leave your FB id
4. Blog about this giveaway or post it on your sidebar (2 extra entries)
5. Grab my button and place it on your blog (2 extra entries)

Giveaway ends October 20th. Open to U.S. residents. Winner selected by www.random.org. Winner will have 72 hrs. to respond to email notification or alternate winner will be selected.

My Princess Bible {Review}

Although my Little Bean is still a bit young, I am looking forward to sharing the My Princess Bible by Andy Holmes with her in the next few years. More of an introductory storybook than an actual Bible, My Princess Bible introduces young girls to 19 influential, real-life women from the Bible.

Each woman is depicted as a princess, not because of earthly royal lineage, but because she is a daughter of the Heavenly King. Stories are told through rhythmic rhymes and give an overview of the significance of each princess in the Bible. I like that the illustrations show a multicultural depiction of modern day children as princesses, though the illustrations of the actual Biblical women are not as diverse. The author does a good job of imparting to the little girl reader that she is special and seen as a princess because she was created by God, as well as some basic information about some very influential women of the Bible. The last story in the book is taken from Psalm 139, a key passage on how God created us and how special we are to Him.

My Princess Bible can be purchased from the Tyndale publishing house for $12.99. What a wonderful way to remind a special little girl in your life about how treasured she is this upcoming Holiday season!

Catch Up on the Latest Giveaways!

Love entering contests, sweepstakes, and giveaways but wish you could find your faves in a nicely compiled list? Check out Giveaway Scout. Scan through page upon page of fabulous opportunities to win goodies and only click over to the ones you're interested in entering. Stop by and browse on your own or subscribe for email updates delivered right to your inbox, easy peasey!

Total Pillow Review & Giveaway

This giveaway is now closed.

As a physical therapist who specialized in sports and orthopedic injuries (currently on hiatus to be with the littles!), I know and can appreciate the importance of a quality pillow for proper positioning. Whether in transit or relaxing at home, the ability to maintain good alignment of your body, the spine in particular, is incredibly important for minimizing major and minor aches and pains.

The Total Pillow is a positioning device with a large degree of versatility. Say goodbye to foam, down, and fiber-filled pillows that bottom out and lose their shape over time. The Total Pillow is filled with microbeads (similar to an updated stress relief ball) and can be manipulated into numerous configurations easily without losing its shape. It's covered with a stretchy, almost neoprene-type fabric (though thinner than traditional neoprene) and has a softer fleece on the front. The Total Pillow can be used as a seat cushion, neck support, lumbar support, head rest, and regular pillow. It can also be used for positioning of the arms and/or legs to provide for optimal spinal alignment.

I gave it a test run in my office chair during a marathon site update the other evening and thought it provided very good lumbar support. It was a little on the bulky side when folded over compared to what I usually recommend for a lumbar roll (small pillow placed against the chair in the small of the back to support the lower spine), but I found that it was still comfortable when placed in a chair with good bones (wouldn't recommend this for use with a flexible back chair). I then passed it off to my husband for the ultimate test...a night's sleep. Bless his heart, my husband is the consummate pillow fluffer! He will tear up a pillow trying to find "his spot" for sleeping. All of the fluffing and folding in an attempt to find a position of comfort typically ruins the pillows I buy him in a matter of months. In most cases, I can see some degree of breakdown after just a couple of nights! I am happy to report that there was none of that with The Total Pillow. It held up beautifully to his testing and my sweetie thought it was actually very comfortable...now that's saying something!

The primary drawbacks for me are that it requires spot cleaning and is recommended for adults only. With 4 little ones and a house full of activity, I am always in search of wash and go products. Also, because it is filled with microbeads, it can be dangerous for children should they ingest the beads somehow (for example, following a puncture of the pillow). However, this is clearly marked on the packaging and, by design, it is not really a pillow I would recommend for little ones anyway.

To Purchase: Total Pillow can be purchased for $19.99, plus S&H. Right now, they are having a special promotion during which you can get a second pillow free, plus some extra compresses and compress covers.

Win Your Own: Enter to win your very own Total Pillow by doing any or all of the following. Please leave a separate comment for each entry and include your email if not visible in your profile, so I can contact you if you win. This giveaway is open to U.S. residents only.

Mandatory Entry:
Stop by Total Pillow and let me know what you find most appealing about this pillow...easy as pie!

Extra Entries:

1. Become a follower of Bullfrogs & Butterflies Baby Blog or let me know that you already are (and thank you!) -
2. Become a fan of Ellia C. Naturals on Facebook
3. Follow me on Twitter
4. Tweet about this giveaway and link back to @ElliaCNaturals - 1 extra entry per day
5. Add our button to your blog (please provide your link)

The winner will be selected by random.org on August 12th. Good luck :)

(Disclosure: I received The Total Pillow, free of charge from Total Pillow, for the purposes of this review. The opinions expressed in this review are honest and based on my own experiences and those of my family.)

More Goodies from CSN Stores!

As I was sitting at my vanity this morning, scurrying through my list of emails before the little ones awoke, I received a sweet, sweet surprise...the opportunity to review a fabulous product from CSN Stores! I've had the pleasure of offering some of their incredible products to you in the past through CSN Stores sponsored giveaways, and now I have the privilege of reviewing a wonderful item myself and sharing my experiences with you. More details to follow, so stay tuned!

Grill Daddy Review & Giveaway!

This giveaway is now closed.

Spring through Fall, our grill always gets a workout. There's nothing finer than a juicy steak or turkey burger, baked potato (grill style!), and grilled corn on the cobb for this family of 6...except perhaps the occasional shish kabob or filet! You might say it's a bit of a compulsion (wink). The only downside to this innocent indulgence is the looming chore of cleaning the grill after the tummies have been filled. Fortunately, we now have some added ammunition to help with this task.

When I was first approached to review the Grill Daddy, I pictured your typical, run-of-the-mill grill brush. Boy, was I mistaken! I now see why it's called the Grill Daddy. This bad boy is huge! Both my husband and I thought at first that it was a bit too large, but our opinions were quickly turned around. Although it takes a little getting used to, the Grill Daddy is incredibly effective and works wonderfully on a variety of grill surfaces.

What makes this unique brush so effective? The power of steam. The Grill Daddy uses a combination of water based steam and firm, stainless steel bristles to get your grill squeaky clean. To use, simply fill the reservoir with water and you're good to go. As the steam comes out, it rinses away the mess left behind on your grill. As an added bonus, the steam also serves to clean the bristles of the brush itself, ensuring that you have a clean product to use each time! Because of the heat required to generate steam, this brush reportedly helps to both clean and sanitize by ridding your grill of both grease and bacteria. One of the nice features about the ominous size of this brush is the fact that it protects your arms and hands from burns by keeping you far enough from the hot surface...and did I mention, this gem can be used on porcelain, steel, and iron grills whether they are hot or cold!

You can purchase your very own Grill Daddy online for $19.95, and it comes with a 30-day money back guarantee. As an added bonus, you’ll receive a color-coded meat thermometer, free of charge, with your order. You can also find the Grill Daddy at stores such as K-mart, Sears, and CVS.



Now for the Giveaway! I'm giving away a Grill Daddy to 1 lucky reader of Bullfrogs & Butterflies Baby.

To Enter:
Just leave me a comment indicating who in your house would be most likely to use this bad boy of grill brushes...easy, peasy!

Extra Entries (please leave a separate comment for each):

1. Become a follower of Bullfrogs & Butterflies Baby Blog or let me know that you already are (and thank you!) - 2 extra entries
2. Become a fan of Ellia C. Naturals on Facebook - 2 extra entries
3. Follow me on Twitter - 2 extra entries
4. Tweet about this giveaway and link back to @ElliaCNaturals - 1 extra entry per day
5. Add our button to your blog (please provide your link)

The winner will be selected by random.org on June 3rd. Good luck :)

(Disclosure: I received a Grill Daddy, free of charge from Grill Daddy, for the purposes of this review. The opinions expressed in this review are honest and based on my own experience.)

A Little Teaser!

Wouldn't you love to have this fabulous stoneware set for springtime get togethers and summer barbeques? Stay tuned to find out how you can win your very own!

In The Works...

Working on bringing you a couple of new fabulous giveaways...1 for inside the home and 1 for outside :) Stay tuned!

Breast Cancer Awareness Week

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month may be October, but the lovely ladies over at Mammalicious Finds are giving it a jump start by hosting their own Breast Cancer Awareness Week from August 31st to September 4th. Be sure to stop by to show your support, get access to some valuable information links, and get in on some fabulous giveaways. Check out all of the action HERE.

It's Party Time!

Tip Junkie is turning 2! To celebrate, they'll be unveiling a new look and hosting a fabulous giveaway bonanza, including 50 incredible prizes! Ten prizes will be given away each day next week from June 15-19. Be sure to stop by to check out their makeover and enter to win some wonderful fair.

Wee Squeak Review & Giveaway

As the mom of 4 wee ones 5 years and younger, I'm always on the lookout for well-made, durable shoes that are as fashionable as they are functional. I need something that is easy on the budget, but can take the beatings my little munchkins are sure to put them through!

Enter Wee Squeaks. My 1 year old had the distinct pleasure of putting a pair of the Navy Fisherman Sandals to the test. From the moment I put them on his little feet, he hit the ground running! Delighted by the musical squeak he was able to create with each step, he jumped headlong into playing with cadence and rhythm. Having an active toddler who is an explorer and dare-angel at heart, I appreciated being able to hear where he was going before he reached his destination. Had a little too much "music" for the day? No worries...the sqeaker mechanism disables easily to preserve your sanity! And with no fading, no cracking, and no real visible signs of wear, these babies scored high marks with me in the durability category.

Here's what the manufacturer has to say about these adorable kicks:

Wee Squeak Children’s Shoes are footwear that's fun to wear! Comfortable and stylish, these little shoes are great for any season. With a variety of styles and colors to choose from, these children's shoes are a great gift idea as well as a way to help children learn to walk properly without even realizing they're being taught. Traditional Mary Jane’s, along with a wide variety of boys sandals, children’s tennis shoes and girls sandals in several different colors and styles, Wee Squeak Shoes has a very diverse selection. We even have accessories to go with our “Wee Snap” shoes…clip on flowers to dress up the shoes, as well as Crystal Crown accessories in white or pink. These decorative additions to our Wee Snap line will put a sparkle in any girl’s eye when she sees them gracing her toes!
Wee Squeak shoes are designed for children and parents alike. Our shoes actually make a fun squeak sound as the child walks. A cushion in the heal squeezes air through a tiny nozzle making the squeak sound. For those occasions when the shoe needs to be silent, the squeaker can be removed very simply by an adult. Shoe sizes range from 3-12. We have a wide variety of shoes for boys and girls, and we have expanded our collection for Spring and Summer 2009. I have attached a brochure for your review. Please also visit our website for a detailed listing at http://www.weesqueak.com/.

Now for the nitty gritty...Win your very own pair of Wee Squeaks! One lucky reader will get to choose between the Orange Girl's Sandal with Yellow Daisy, Turquoise Girl's Sandal with White Daisy, and the Navy Fisherman's Sandal (each in size 5).

How To Enter:

1. Stop by Wee Squeak and take a look around, then come back here and leave a comment about your favorite item

Extra Entries (please leave a separate comment for each):

1. Become a follower of my blog
2. Blog about this giveaway with links back to this blog and Wee Squeak (please include the name of your blog in your comment)
3. No blog? No problem! Tell a friend about this giveaway and cc: me on the email @ contactus at bullfrogsandbutterfliesbabyboutique dot com
4. Add my button to your sidebar

** Please leave your email address with each entry or make sure that it is accessible through your Blogger profile

Winner to be selected using http://www.random.org/ random number generator
Giveaway open to all US Residents

Deadline to Enter: June 14th
GOOD LUCK!

Boutique Wipes Cases by Maia Bella Boutique {Giveaway}

Whether you prefer to care for your wee one's bottom with disposable baby wipes or eco-friendly reuseable cloths, these boutique-style wipes cases by Joy Sierra of Maia Bella Boutique will bring a sense of style to the messy task of diaper duty! Available in both full-size and travel versions, Joy offers a wide range of fabric patterns to fit every taste.

I was given the distinct privilege of trying out the travel version of the "Kleo" pattern (top left in the above graphic) and, given the hectic schedule in our hosehold over the course of the past month, I have definitely put it to the test! This baby has been in and out of my various diaper bags more times than I can count, tossed about this way and that, and used over and over to clean many a messy tushy. The high quality fabric and stylish trim are securely attached and show no signs of gapping, fraying, or puckering despite the abuse I have put them through. There is even a layer of padding/bunting between the top of the case and the fabric to give a beautifully finished look. Who says the mundane has to look mundane?!

Win Your Own:

Win your very own Boutique Wipes Case from Maia Bella Boutique! Joy has generously offered up one of her Louis Vuitton style travel cases for one lucky winner (see bottom right of the above graphic).

How to Win:

1. Stop by Maia Bella Boutique and take a look around

2. Come back here and leave a comment about your favorite item/pattern

Extra Entries (please leave a separate comment for each):

1. Become a follower of my blog

2. Blog about this giveaway with links back to this blog and Maia Bella Boutique (please include the name of your blog)

3. Tell a friend about this giveaway and cc: me on the email @ contactus at bullfrogsandbutterfliesbabyboutique dot com

4. Add my button to your sidebar

** Please leave your email address with each entry or make sure that it is accessible through your Blogger profile

Winner to be selected using http://www.random.org/ random number generator

Giveaway open to all US Residents

Deadline to Enter: May 14th

GOOD LUCK!

My 1st Win!

And what a fabulous win it was! After entering many wonderful blog giveaways to no avail, I finally won my first prize and here it is...

Whoo Hoo...Yay me! This fabulous stroller by Bumbleride arrived this week and I can't wait to take it out for a spin :) With an infant adapter bar and many accessories standard, our new little one and her 18 month old brother will be cruisin' in the lap of luxury!

Many "Thanks" to Simple Reviews for hosting such a wonderful giveaway!

Another Fabulous Giveaway!

Win Your Own Posh PastryTM Gift Pack:

One lucky winner will receive a Bullfrogs & Butterflies Posh Pastry Gift Pack, including 1 Cutie Cannoli TM and one Petit Four Sweetie TM. Be sure to stop by Jamie's Precious Peas, a wonderful blog on the rise, for your chance to enter.

All entries must be received by March 26, 2009.

GIVEAWAY!!!

One lucky winner will receive a Bullfrogs & Butterflies Mini Layette Baby Bouquet, complete with a cotton bib, cotton baby hat, 3 pair of baby socks (0-6m), and beautiful silk flowers and greenery. Packaged in a sweet pink galvenized gift pail, this little darling is the perfect way to welcome Spring!

Now for the nitty gritty...how to enter:

Stop by BULLFROGS & BUTTERFLIES and enjoy the sweetness overload. Then, come back and leave me a comment letting me know your favorite item OTHER THAN the baby bouquets (please leave your email address with your comment). Easy Peasey!!

EXTRA ENTRIES (please leave a separate comment for each):

1. Follow my blog :)

2. Add my button to your blog or shop (please leave site address)

3. Blog about this giveaway and link back to this page

4. Invite a friend to follow my blog and leave a comment once they have followed (make sure they leave a comment as well!)

Giveaway ends March 20th and is open to all US Residents.

Mommies United Back To School Giveaway

I'm telling all my mommy friends about a fabulous giveaway by Mommies United in honor of "Back To School"! Enter now to win an impressive basket filled with the following: VTech VMotion TV Learning System, Kraft Bagel-fuls Coupon, Starbucks Coupon for their new Vivanno beverage, Burger King Crown Card and Kids Meal Crayola Back to School Toy, and Brothers All-Natural Fruit Crisps and Potato Chips. Now that's a giveaway worth talking about!

Mommies United is an inventive site full of fabulous reviews, giveaways, and fun activities. It's maintained by 6 wonderfully unique women and is a great resource for mommies of all walks of life! Stop by and check them out today!!