VTech: Durable, Educational and Fun

Disclosure: I received products to facilitate this review.  All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

This year I decided that all of the kids Christmas gifts had to be either durable and fun or durable and educational or all three.  Either way, durability was not a quality I was willing to sacrifice.  I don't know about you but when I pay for something, I expect it to last.  I don't buy them toys year round-usually just Christmas, birthdays and a little something for Easter.  Therefore, I try to really invest in things that will last and that they will get lots of use out of.

And when it comes to toys that are durable, educational and fun, nobody does it quite like VTech.  It seems that over the years they have mastered art of making toys that kids will love playing with but also helps them learn in the process and can withstand tumbles and bumps that toys are surely to suffer when played with. We got Moo a VTech laptop two years ago and between her and JJ it has definitely gotten a lot of use and taken a lot of tumbles, but still works like it's fresh out of the box.  So, when they told me that they wanted to send some toys for the kids, I was like "Sweet!"

The kids thought it was Christmas morning when they woke up and saw the three huge boxes the UPS had dropped off.  Moo and JJ couldn't wait to rip open the packages and see what they got.  They already knew that something special was coming, but they didn't know what.  Here's a closer look at what they got.

Go! Go! Smart Wheels Construction Playset

First off let me say that I love that the pieces are so colorful.  JJ has been showing an interest in colors.  So, I've been asking to point different colored track pieces.  For example, I'll ask him to point to the color orange and he'll either point to one of the corner track pieces or the crane tower.  Speaking of the crane tower, it has little shape cutouts on the sides.  

This set comes with a triangle, round and square boulder that kids use the crane clip to pick up and send the down the slide or they can put them through the cutout hole and watch them fall into the grey catcher on the side.  Moo loves the talking the dump truck and operating the crane.  I also loved that this was very easy to snap together and you can take it apart after they finish playing with it.  It doesn't have a million and one pieces either.

Go! Go! Smart Wheels 2-in-1 Race Track

This comes with two race tracks-a circular one pictured below and the jump ramp pictured on the box above.  Moo and JJ enjoy playing with the circular track the most.  It has lights, makes sounds and the flag serves as a lever to magically make the cars race around the track.  That's JJ's favorite part.  

I like the race track because it's a two player toy and helps to encourage sharing through imaginative play.  And that is something that we are definitely trying to work on with JJ.  The manual elevator lift and turning car platform help with motor skills while the different sounds and phrases helps with language development.  With JJ in speech therapy, the language development is very important. 

This was also easy to put together.  And the best part is that you can connect it with the construction set to make one bit playset!

Grow & Discover Tree House

This is hands down the best thing since sliced bread to JJ (and Moo).  Build for toddlers up to 36 months, the Grow & Discover Tree House features a ball slide, peek-a-boo door, talking clock, canopy, turning gears and more.  JJ is obsessed with the ball slide as you see in the pictures below.  Although Moo is a little too big for this as you can see, she enjoys playing with it too.  I'm seriously hoping they make a taller version for older kids soon.

There's so much kids can learn playing with this.  They can learn about time, numbers, colors, and nursery rhymes.  They've played with all of these everyday since we got them last week, but the tree house is what they play with the longest.

I definitely recommend that if you have a child between the ages of 1 and 5, that you look into getting them on of these or visit VTech to see what else they have.  Trust me they have a variety of toys for all ages.  Check out their official website: http://bit.ly/tHKlfD.  You can like them on Facebook (http://on.fb.me/iIPfUE) and follow them on Twitter (http://bit.ly/Q7J7vM) to stay up to date on the latest product releases, sales and deals! 

5 Reasons Why SI Kids Makes The Perfect Gift

With Christmas fast approaching it's time to get a start on your gift shopping if you haven't started already.  Or maybe you have started but still need options for stocking stuffers.  Look no further.  Sports Illustrated Kids to the rescue!  Here are five reasons to give the gift of SI Kids.

1-Kids Love Magazines:  I've tested this theory out.  I've packed books for Moo and JJ for trips to pediatrician's office.  While the books might have distracted them in the car, but once we got the pediatrician's they quickly ditched their story books for the glossy covers and pages of a magazine.  No amount of persuading could get them trade out their magazines for books.  As Moo explained it one day, "Magazines fun!

2-Improved Reading Skills:  This goes hand in hand with number one.  Kids are more likely to improve their reading skills if they're reading something that they love or enjoy!  As a former reading tutor and having worked in the school system, I can tell you that it is highly recommended that parents of reluctant readers give them magazines or newspapers to read.  Why?

Well, if your child is having issues with reading, thrusting a book at them only makes them feel more intimated of reading.  Magazines have less educational appeal to kids.  And any experienced parent can tell you that the more fun you make things like learning or chores appear, the more on board your child will be with actually doing it.  So, why not give them a magazine that is designed for kids to learn with?

3-It's Unisex:  Whether you have a house full of boys, girls or a mixture of both, SI Kids is the right the gift for either sex.  SI Kids is filled with cool celebrity interviews and tips, games that will challenge their minds, stunning pictures, comics and more.

4-It Keeps On Giving:  Unlike most Christmas gifts, once you open them that's it.  With a subscription to SI Kids, your child gets a new magazine every month for 12 months.  That's like 12 gifts!  And 12 is better than 1.

5-It's Convenient:  The best thing about SI Kids is that it's convenient to order.  No leaving the house or braving insane crowds at the mall on Black Friday for this gift.  You order your child a subscription right from the comfort of your home.

And to make ordering even more convenient, Sports Illustrated Kids is offering an exclusive deal for the holidays.  Right now when you order a one year subscription of SI Kids (print or tablet version) for $19.95, you can get set a gift of 12 more issues for only $5!!   You don't want to miss out on this offer.   Check out www.sikids.com/gift to learn more about this exclusive deal.  Don't forget to like SI Kids on Facebook too!

Stay Cozy With Old Navy

The first official day of winter is almost here.  The weather outside is already cold and nippy. So, what better way to stay warm and cozy than with a nice warm sweater or cardi from Old Navy?!  You all know that I love some Old Navy!  Sadly, I wasn't able to make it to the store in time to use my coupon because I got it late and the car was in the shop. 

No worries though, I have no issues with spending my cash money at Old Navy, they're worth it.  On my second attempt to visit Old Navy my phone died. So, no cute instore pics of Moo enjoying the mannequins this time.  However, I did find her some cute stuff on clearance.  They'll make great gifts if you're still finishing up your holiday shopping too!

Women's Multi-Patterned Crew Sweater-Heather Charcoal

I love crew sweaters and had planned on using my coupon to get this lovely beauty, but my store didn't have it in stock. Bummer.  But what I like about this sweater are the colors.  They're not traditional winter or holiday colors which means I can wear this before and after Christmas.  I also like the thickness.  I like to be nice and toasty. A great gift for the young and older.

Women's Faux-Suede Sherpa-Trim Boots-  Dark Brown

How cute are these?  Gotta keep the feet warm too right?  Thinking about leaving a stick it note on Santa's wallet and hoping these can make a magical appearance under the tree before Christmas gets here. 

Women's Softest Blanket-Wrap Cardi- Graphite Heather

Aside from sweaters, I also love staying cozy with wrap cardis!  My baby sister introduced me to these and now I'm hooked.  You can add a belt to give it more pop or to hold it close in the front.  Love these!!

Men's Fair Isle Zip-Front Cardigan

I'm debating on whether to go back and pick this up for the Mr.  He's a sweater guy but I'm trying to get him to try new things when it comes to his fashions.  I could see this paired with a nice plaid button up.

Men's Everyday Classic Slim-Fit Shirt- White/Red Plaid

Maybe, pairing that cardigan with something like this?  I've never ever seen him in a plaid shirt.  So, I'm thinking hard on getting him one.  There's just something sexy about a guy in plaid.  Tasteful plaid that is.

Hooded Flannel Shirt-Blue Plaid

How cute would JJ look in that?  I'm finally getting used to having a little man to dress.  And he actually enjoys being dressed which is a change from Moo when she was his age. 

Girls Mixed-Stripe Sweater Dress-Cyclamen  Stripe

Isn't this the cutest little sweater dress.  I could so see Moo in this with a white tights and some red or black booties.  I've got it in my virtual cart because it wasn't at my store.  There's another Old Navy close by and I want to check and see if they have it to make sure it's here for Christmas. Can't wait!!

I hope that you will check out Old Navy!  They really do have some amazing winter wear and a little something for everybody on your gift list.  Plus, the prices are hard to beat.  Happy Holidays and Happy Shopping

Disclaimer: I was selected to be an Old Navy Style Council member. All opinions expressed in this post are 100% my own.

Gift Shopping With EdenFantasys

Can you guys believe that Christmas is less than two weeks away?!!  No worries if you still have some shopping to do.  EdenFantasys is here to help.  Whether you're looking for something to go under the tree or stocking stuffers, they have you covered.  Check out my top gift ideas below.

Merker One Shoulder Dress-Purple

This is a great gift for the hot mamas out there.  Who says that just because you've given birth to a kid or two or three that you can't still turn up glam and the sexy sometimes?  What I like about this dress is the front draping.  The way that sash goes across from the right hip to the left shoulder just adds that extra va va voom to it.  Not to mention if you still have just little bit of midsection self it's slightly hidden from view with the placement of the sash.

And you can see from the photo that you don't have to go all out with accessories to get noticed in this dress.   Add a couple of bangles, some studs and maybe a ring or two and black pumps.  If you're more of conservative hot mama then you can still add a blazer on top.

Monet Rollerball Eyeshadow Set

Have a makeup fiend on your hands?  Well, I'm sure they will appreciate this eyeshadow set.  It's not your average eyeshadow.  These actually roll out onto the eyelid.  Then you simply use your fingertips or a blending brush to blend them in.  Great stocking stuffer for sure.

It's A Slice Bath & Shower Duo

Another great stocking stuffer is this shower gel and lotion set.  I'm absolutely obsessed with bath products.  And Cake makes some great products.  Be sure to check out their brown sugar body scrubs too!

Not a fan of shopping the first place?  Well, no problem.  Gift cards are always a great option as well.  You can stick them in stockings or get one of those cute little gift card boxes and nestle it under the tree!

If you choose to shop with EdenFantasys, they'll be offering FREE standard shipping, FREE 2nd shipping on orders $90 or more and FREE next day shipping on orders $120 or more from December 17th to December 21st  

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by EdenFantasys.  All opinions expressed are  100% my own.

Christmas Shopping Plum District Style

It's crunch time in terms of finishing up my Christmas shopping.  I still have a few people to cross off my list.  And while the Black Friday madness is behind us, I still don't feel like searching store aisles for presents my family doesn't already have.  We all live pretty much in the same region so our Walmarts, Targerts, and malls carry the same merchandise.

Therefore, nine times out of ten they've already seen the gift that I'm giving them.  Or they've probably purchased that same gift for me.  So, this year I'm Christmas shopping Plum District-Charlotte style.  I've been checking the site out on daily basis to stay up to date on all the new deals that come available and so far I've scored some sweet beauty products from Bloom (stocking stuffers) and a magazine subscription deal that I used for my husband's birthday.

Anyways, JJ's going to be 7 months by the time Christmas gets here and he's already showing quite an interest in toys.  So, I was thinking that the $25 for $50 Worth of Plush Adorable Rockers from Rockabye[.com] would be a great deal to pick for him. 

Source

How cute is that Baseball Glove rocker?!!  I love it.  Since, my mom is always complaining about the lack of pictures she has of the grandkids, I thought that the $39 for 16x20 Chic Canvas Photo ($99 value) would be a great gift and very worth the investment.  Canvas photos are much better than photos we put in picture books because you hang them on the wall and can see them daily without having to hunt down a book.  Nothing mention, they're just an unspoken elegance about canvas photos, especially when they're framed nicely.

And my sisters and I are all into natural beauty products.  Therefore, I'm eyeballing the $15 for $35 Worth of Holistic Lani B Lip Care Products and the $30 for $60 Worth of Brown Bag Botanicals Skin Care Products.  

Source

So, if you're like me and you're looking to get gifts for your family and friends that really truly surprise them and for an amazing price, I HIGHLY recommend that you scoot on over to Plum District-Charlotte and check out the great deals they have going.  Check out their $25 for $50 Deals. There's only 8 more hours to scoop those up before they're gone!

YUMMommy

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Plum District Charlotte.

Saved By The Shirts

Men are always talking about how complicated we as women are.  However, I've found that when it comes to holiday shopping, it's the men who are the most difficult to shop for.  Do you buy them something for the car?  Or do you get them a new accessory for their video game?

And if you're like me, you don't really believe in giving gift cards because it seems too impersonal.  Unfortunately, I sunk to that level of gift card giving one year with my husband.  I had struck out earlier that year with not so good gifts for our anniversary, Valentine's Day and his birthday.  Who knew he would be so picky when it came to gifts?  Whoever, it was, they really left me out of the loop.

I purchased a chair warmer for his car only to never have it get used.  I got him gourmet chocolates before only to find out that he doesn't like chocolate all too much because it breaks him out.  So, it was gift card to the rescue that Christmas.  However, last Christmas I hit the jack pot when I got him two graphic tees.

If I had known all along that a few guys shirts would have put such a lovely smile on his face, I would have been started getting them for him.  So, there will be no running around going crazy over what to buy this year.  I'm saved by the shirts from buying another gift card this year. Can you say excited?!

So is your guy hard to shop for?

Disclaimer: This post is brought to you by Aeropostale.

Fit For Tea

When it comes to children's clothing, I like to buy items that look fit for tea.  It doesn't matter if we're going to the park, shopping or to church, I just have make sure that Moo and JJ are looking their best.  After all, you never know what opportunities might present themselves.  First impressions are everything.

And with Christmas coming up, I can truly that say that I won't be one of those parents fighting over the last doll baby.  With Moo seeming to outgrow her tomboy stage, I figure now is the perfect time to start investing into more girly pieces for her wardrobe without having to worry about her ripping something from rough housing.

Love this shoe!!

Likewise, I think now is a good time to enjoy dressing JJ up because he's still a baby and he can only get into what I let him dig with.  So, now is the time that I don't have to worry about him destroying his clothes.

How cute?!

This holiday season why not cut back toys and invest in sprucing up your little one's wardrobe.

Disclaimer: This post is brought to you by TeaCollection.com

Made With Love

The most happiest holiday memories that I have of my childhood are when I came home with handmade gifts and/or cards from school to give to my mom, dad or a sibling.  I especially loved the way my mother's eyes would light up and this huge grin would spread across her face.  I remember one year I thought myself how to cross-stitch and I made her a tapestry of different angels and in the middle was scripture about moms.  Oh the joy, delight and pride that shown on her face that Christmas will forever be imprinted on my memory.

I made that gift with love.  I put everything I had into making sure it was perfect.  No stitch was out of place.  And knowing that she loved that gift because I had put so much love and effort into making it just made me feel something that I can't quite put into words. I know it's cliche but it's true. 

Even though years have passed, I still enjoy lighting up my mom's face with gifts made from the heart rather than some store bought jewelry, clothing or book.  Thankfully, companies like Vistaprint help make easier for a busy mom like myself to still be able to the same effort but half the time into creating these kinds of gifts for her.  And I highly recommend that you all give them try this holiday season.  Why not make your loved ones gifts that are truly worthy of being cherished?

From personalized greeting cards/money holders,

calendars,

and t-shirts

to customized mugs

and Christmas ornaments.

Don't let the opportunity to really show your family how much you care about them and love them by creating something that is one of kind.

And don't forget that even after the holidays, you can still visit Vistaprint to make business cards, letterhead, labels and any other printing need that arises

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by our lovely friends at Vistaprint!