With so many festive scents to choose from you can fill your home with the smells of the season! Yankee Candle Festive Fragrances come in a variety of sizes and make the perfect gift for anyone on your list. A Yankee Candle is perfect for coworkers, teachers, Holiday hosts, and of course for yourself! You can shop their gift set section with thoughtful gifts priced from $9.99 all the way up to Deluxe Gifts priced up to $99.99.

Yankee candle has always been known for their wonderful scents, which I change in my own home throughout the year, and are known for their high quality and clean burning. I’ve made the mistake a couple times of buying a second rate brand only to end up with smoke stains on my walls. Thankfully, I’ve never had that issue with Yankee Candle and it’s why I love to give (and receive!) Yankee Candles as gifts.

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RedEnvelope Deluxe Wall Gallery Frame

 

The Deluxe Wall Gallery Frame from RedEnvelope is the perfect gift for those who tend to accumulate VIPs (very important photos). Exclusively from RedEnvelope, their generous set of elegantly arranged frames is just the thing to corral treasured photographs. With its white mats and artfully skewed symmetry, the Deluxe Wall Gallery Frame lends the effect of a collage created over time, rather than in a snap. It holds thirteen photos, is available in black, espresso or white finishes, and the frames hang from a 33″ nickel-plated brass bar. The seven frames that hold the 13 photos come in two 5×7 frames , two 4×6 frames, three 3×3 frames, four 3 1/2×5 frames and two 8×10 frames. Overall it hangs 33″ x 27 1/4″ when assembled, and comes with screws and easy-to-follow assembly instructions.

To really make it personal, add your own photos to the frames for a thoughtful gift from the heart! It’s a great gift idea that is sure to melt the hearts of parents, grandparents, spouses, etc! Or give the frames empty to your favorite photographer and let them choose their own treasured memories to display! Either way, the Deluxe Wall Gallery Frame is a gift that will be a treasure for years to come!

There are also other similar items like the (standard) Wall Gallery Frame and the Hall Gallery Frame to help fill various spaces in your home or office. RedEnvelope also offers one of the largest selections of unique, high quality gift items on the web. You can shop by occasion, browse gifts for women, gifts for men, Babies and Kids, for the home, Jewelry and more! If you need a gift, for any occasion, Red Envelope is sure to have something to fit your needs. In addition to the Deluxe Wall Gallery Frame, we’ve purchased the Family Handprint Frame (which was a hit with my parents), and you may remember last year’s Holiday Gift Guide where we featured the Beer Lovers Gifts. I also own several of their garden items like the Italian Herb Garden . Each of my RedEnvelope items has remained in great condition, was exactly as described on the site, and arrived quickly.

Be sure to visit the RedEnvelope website for unique and awesome gift ideas this Holiday season! They also have great deals and promo codes, and don’t forget to “like” them on Facebook for the latest savings and items! Don’t miss my other RedEnvelope item this year, the fabulous Channel Birthstone Bracelet.

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Sh*t My Kids Ruined:

An A-Z Celebration of Kid-Destruction

 

Sh*t My Kids Ruined: An A-Z Celebration of Kid-Destruction , written by Julie Haas Brophy, makes the perfect gift for any good-humored parent, parent-to-be, teacher, nanny, or anyone who has been a child! The book, whose pages overflow with the realities of parenthood, will no doubt make any reader laugh, cringe, and maybe even cry!

I’ve always said that parenthood isn’t all Hallmark Moments, and if there was ever a written testament to that statement, it is Julie Haas Brophy’s 160 pages of ultimate kid destruction. I find it’s the perfect book to pick up when I’m having a particularly challenging day as a parent. Personally, I find Sh*t My Kids Ruined a great way to feel better about the messes my own kid’s make. Sure, someone (who will remain nameless) who puts five matchbox cars in the toilet is gross, but it’s better than one of the entries with a toilet clogged with clothing. I use the book to feel better about my own situation, or, on days where my kids make a total mess of something, the pages welcome you like that of a club that I’d prefer not to be a part of- but at least I’m not alone.

Overall, just the perfect gift this Holiday season. Give parents something to laugh at (or with), show parents-to-be what they’ll be in for in the near future, or better still give it to your teenagers to reinforce that talk you gave on abstinence!

You can purchase Sh*t My Kids Ruined: An A-Z Celebration of Kid-Destruction on amazon for just over $10.

For more Sh*t My Kids Ruined fun, check out the official website and Facebook page too!
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BedVoyage Eco-Luxury Linens

I had the extreme pleasure of reviewing some new bed linens from BedVoyage, maker of Eco-Luxury Bamboo Linens. Bamboo fibers are naturally hypo-allergenic, thermal regulating, moisture wicking, odor resistant and mildew resistant. As soft as silk, yet highly breathable, bamboo fiber is three to four times more absorbent than cotton due to its unparalleled micro-structure. This allows the sleeper to stay more dry and comfortable than they would with any other natural fabric. BedVoyage bamboo linens are thermal regulating as their insulating properties keep you cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. The bamboo that BedVoyage uses comes from a certified eco-friendly textile plant in an unpolluted region in China.

The average person spends about 1/3 of their life in bed, but because I am a mother to three small children, my time in bed is significantly less in duration but even more important to me. I try to make my bed a place where I can relax and recharge for the next day. I typically buy sheets that have no less than 600 thread count and my softest set is 1000 thread count and made from cotton. Imagine my surprise that the set of BedVoyage bamboo sheets were significantly softer than my 1000 count set! I have been using them for over two months and they have also not shown any signs of pilling or fading. These super soft sheets are a dream to sleep on, and in warmer weather still helped me feel cool, and now that our nights are colder, I am enjoying the warmth they provide. They have a heavier feel which I think just goes to the quality of the sheet, and the only thing I need to do differently as far as care is change the heat settings in which I wash/dry. To keep the sheets looking and feeling great it is advised to wash on cold and dry on low. A warm iron can be used, but I’ve found that as long as I remove them from the dryer as soon as they are done, any wrinkles fall out on their own. Oh, and I should mention we were able to receive the travel set of sheets with a patented one piece system where the flat and fitted sheets were sewn together. I was a little unsure how I’d feel about this, but it is easy to put on the bed, and has also kept me from searching for my top sheet on the floor in the middle of the night! The travel set also comes in a super soft bag to store your linens (flat & fitted sheet plus two pillow cases), and a laminated sign for housekeeping if you are using for travel in a hotel letting them know these are your personal sheets and not to take them (clearly, they’ve thought of everything). The sheets for my bed were in a King size, and we were also sent a one piece set in twin for Joey to try out. Unlike myself, Joey hasn’t yet had the pleasure of luxury sheets…until now. I’m not sure whether to thank or curse BedVoyage because Joey seems to be sleeping better, but complains if I put any other sheets on the bed. He asks for the “pillow” sheets which in Joey speak, means he thinks they’re soft and comfy. For his twin set the only difference was that it came with one pillow case instead of two. One thing I have noticed, aside from Joey generally sleeping better, was that I have seen an improvement in his allergies as well. Often times he would wake and be sneezing in the morning, and I had even recently tried vacuuming the mattress, buying a new mattress pad and washing his curtains to kill any dust mites. I think these sheets may also be aiding his allergies, so for that I am extra thankful.

Lastly, I was sent an adult travel blanket. My intention was to initially give this to my son Jake who has several blankets that he uses each night. Now that he’s three years old, I was hoping to swap out his “Pooh Bear Blanket” which is actually part of his nursery bedding. After feeling how soft this blanket was however, and not wanting a battle over his “blankie,” I decided it would be best if I just used it. I feel like a kid again…I originally had the blanket in my family room and was using it as a throw, but the super soft blanket was soon discovered and was being hogged by the rest of the family. Now, in addition to my soft sheet set, I have this wonderful blanket in my room at night as well…and I don’t even feel bad about it. Every once in a while I think it’s okay to take something just for me! So join the club, Moms! No matter where you are, how bad your day was, sleep like a queen night after night on these fabulously soft and absolutely luxurious sheets! Personally, I can’t wait to get a matching duvet…although if I do I may never get out of bed! Check out BedVoyage‘s website where you can order products directly (they also offer towels in addition to sheets, duvets and blankets) http://www.bedvoyage.com/. You can also find them on Twitter and Facebook.

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Canvas 4 Life

Canvas 4 Life takes your favorite photos and turns them into fabulous pieces of canvas art! You may have heard about taking pictures and putting them onto canvas, but please don’t just go anywhere for this. Canvas 4 Life is the place you need to go if you want to get the job done right…and it’s so easy! First you upload a photo to their website and they run it through their quality detection software. This awesome software only displays the sizes that will be appropriate for your image. This helps ensure every canvas comes out perfect. I experienced this myself when I ordered three canvas prints, one of each of my kids. My intention was to order three 12×16 prints, but the picture of Jake did not pass the quality check for that size. For his canvas we ended up getting a 12×12 which worked out perfectly.

One you determine what size you want to order, you will select what type of canvas you want. To do that you’ll decide next of you want your canvas in the original color, blank and white or sepia. Decide next on the depth of your canvas (I selected 1.5″), and then choose the bleed which is if you want the image to wrap around the canvas (I chose to have the image wrap and I loved the visual effect it created). When all is said and done you’ll be able to view a real time image of your canvas before you order. Better still, Canvas 4 Life has a 100% money back guarantee which means that if you are not completely satisfied with your order, they will either re-do it for you or offer you an immediate refund.

You might think this sounds too good to be true, or that you’ll have to spend hundred and hundreds of dollars for such a great service. Think again! Get your own custom canvas starting at 32.99 (plus they have free shipping!). You won’t be sacrificing quality either. Every canvas is made with 100% cotton canvas – no imitations! Their canvas weighs in at a massive 400 grams and is 21 mil thick which is the best there is on the market! They also use real artists’ stretcher bars to make up every frame to order which is the way it should be done! You have your choice of two depths either slim frames which is 0.75″ deep or opt for their chunky frames which is 1.5″ deep. There is no difference in price, so the choice really is yours! Finally, don’t worry about what your print will look like in a year; Canvas 4 Life only uses genuine HP Vivera quality inks. These inks are guaranteed for over 75 years and are the absolute best on the market!

I cannot say enough about the three canvases I received. I will be placing additional order for holiday gifts for family, and will be adding more to my own home soon as well. Having treasured photos put into canvas brings your picture to life and makes them a work of art. Start making treasured art of your own! These are great gifts for anyone for the holidays or anytime of year! Visit Canvas 4 Life’s website http://www.canvas4life.com/ where you can upload your photos and see what they’ll look like on canvas for free, chat live or call them 1-88-407-6277. You can also find them on Facebook. Here is a picture of my canvases (which truly does them no justice):

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Tollytots is a vertically integrated, design, marketing, and manufacturing company with special emphasis on the girl’s doll and accessory category. Their mission is to create unique and innovative products that combine classic toys with leading edge interactive technology. They have really created a whole new play experience for children and their caregivers. Making it all possible is their relationship with some of the most recognized brands in the world; Fisher Price, Disney and Graco children’s products where they produce an extensive doll and doll accessory line under these leading brands. Tollytots Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Jakks Pacific and is proud to be part of the Jakks Pacific family of companies.

The My First Disney Princess line has produced some beautiful dolls perfect for little girls from some of their favorite Disney characters. In shopping for my own toddler, I’ve found many dolls are suitable for older children and all the others were more like baby toys she was not interested in. I was introduced to Tollytots last year when we fell in love with this My First Princess Toddler Rapunzel Doll from the movie Tangled.. My daughter still plays with her regularly and she particularly loves brushing her beautiful hair. After nearly a year of abuse play the doll made by Tollytots is still in fantastic condition!

So when Tollytots told me about some of their latest Disney My First Princess dolls I couldn’t wait to see what they came up with. Here’s just a sample of what’s in stores and ready to make your little princess happy this holiday season!

Disney Sing and Story Telling Belle

First up is my personal favorite (am I allowed to have a favorite?), the Disney Sing And Storytelling Belle. This beautiful doll will keep your little one entertained for hours…yes, hours! This 20″ soft body doll interacts with Chip, Mrs. Potts, Lumiere, microphone and her storybook and it also includes a deluxe brush. The doll can tell over 8 minutes of stories and songs and says more than 100 phrases!

To say this doll is amazing is an understatement! I think I was just as amazed as any child when I saw all that this doll could do! It runs on just 3 AAA batteries and retails for around $79. Tollytots recommends the age as 36 months – 15 years (make that 33 years old because I love this doll)! Even though there is a lot going on with this doll, it’s beautiful and well made, and since it’s made by Tollytots, I’m confident it will hold up as nicely as their other products.

Make your princess’s Holiday with Disney Sing And Storytelling Belle, but it’s really a great gift any time of year!

My First Disney Princess Snow White Toddler Doll

Up next is one of the newest toddler dolls in the collection, the My First Disney Princess Snow White Toddler Doll just released in September. This adorable 15″ doll is just beautiful. Just like the Rapunzel doll, she comes with beautiful rooted hair (just not as long obviously), her trademark dress, and what every princess needs, a tiara. Her soft body can be positioned, and she retails for around $23. Snow White has the same quality as the Rapunzel doll we own, and I know that this Disney princess will be enjoyed for a long time to come. Click here to purchase your princess a My First Disney Princess Snow White Toddler Doll.

My First Disney Princess Cinderella Travel with Me Doll

Last, but certainly not least, especially in my daughter’s eyes is the My First Disney Princess Travel with me Doll. We received the Cinderella doll who literally travels everywhere we go. Luckily, the 7″ doll is easy to bring with us in her own royal carrier (included), but fun with this little princess isn’t limited on the road. My daughter loves carrying her around the house too. Perhaps best of all, this great addition to the Tollytots Disney My First Princess collection retails for around $16.99, and you can get yours at popular retailers like Target here.

To see all of the Disney My First Princess Dolls you can visit the Tollytots website, and don’t forget to “like” them on Facebook too for all the latest!
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Matchbox’s Smokey the Fire Truck

The Smokey The Fire Truck toy is a must have for any young boy! Get ready for hours of imaginative fun with Smokey the Fire Truck from Matchbox. He has the ability to speak, sing, dance, and launch “water” balls, and Smokey bring new meaning to the term interactive toy!

Mattel describes Smokey The Fire Truck as a ” freewheeling friend with movable hoses that spray water mist and expandable ladders and sensors that respond to a child’s movements. Smokey is a real working fire truck brought to life. This interactive buddy talks, tells jokes, eats, exercises and sings. Kids will love interacting with their new friend!”

He requires 4 C batteries for use (which are included) and is recommended for ages 3 to 7. Although, I can tell you that all three of my kids, ages 2-6, including a girl, love this toy. And really, what’s not to love?

Depending on his positioning, Smokey The Fire Truck will function in either character mode or truck mode. Smokey is in character mode when he is half or fully upright, and says phrases such as, “Smokey here! Reporting for duty!” When Smokey is on all six wheels, he is in truck mode and can be pushed forward and pulled backward to activate lights and sounds. Using motion sensors and sound activation, Smokey is always on alert. He knows how to say over 95 phrases and can sing 4 different songs.

The water balls, which are also included, might be my kids favorite part of Smokey The Fire Truck, and when you shoot them at the fire, and hit it, Smokey will respond accordingly. He’s all about teamwork. For my kids, the only issue has been sharing! That’s okay though, because Smokey The Fire Truck isn’t the only great interactive toy, check out Matchbox Stinky The Garbage Truck and Matchbox Rocky the Robot Truck – Deluxe Rocky for hours and hours of more interactive fun!

Click here to buy your Smokey The Fire Truck on amazon (with free shipping!). It’s a toy that won’t disappoint!

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Princess CharEm

Custom Made Tutus and Hair Accessories

Princess CharEm designs, creates and sells customs made tutus and hair accessories for the little princess in your life. What started as a small home business has rapidly expanded nationally….and given the beautiful, quality items it’s no wonder! If the Princess CharEm tutus look familiar it is probably because they have been featured in such places as Parents Magazine, Parenting Magazine and Zulily.com.

The Princess CharEm tutus are great for a variety of occasions like the Holidays, birthdays, recitals, costumes, photo’s and more. Each tutu is carefully crafted and owner Cynthia explains that each tutu is made from close to 100 yards of unbelievably soft tulle. If you don’t see a style or tutu that fits your particular occasion, you can alsoalso send a request for the tutu you’re looking for.

My daughter Cecilia received her tutu just in time for the holidays! I had a hard time deciding on a color, so the one we were sent was perfect. Once my daughter put the tutu on, I had a hard time having her sit for a photo because all she was interested in doing was twirling around and dancing like “a princess.” The tulle was soft and didn’t bother her at all, the ribbon was beautiful and tied simply, and it was easy to get on and off. Her hair band was also perfect and soft, and didn’t catch or tangle her hair. The elastic band went on easy and the flower was beautiful and complimented the tutu perfectly.

So visit the Princess CharEm website for the perfect holiday tutu, holiday gift, or just because! Your princess will thank you!

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Disney Princess 2-In-1 Ballgown Surprise

Cinderella Doll

Mattel reminds us that one of the most memorable moments from each Disney Princess fairy tale is the magical transformation into a Disney Princess. Your little one can now reenact these magical moments with dolls that make a complete fairy tale transformation. Each of the four Disney Princesses in this collection makes the dramatic transformation into a beautiful princess sparkling with glitter. Collect Cinderella, Belle, Tiana and Ariel for the entire Disney Princess 2-In-1 Ballgown Surprise Doll Collection. Each doll is sold separately. Girls will love reenacting scenes from their favorite Disney Princess movies, and it’s so easy to do with this doll!

Here are some photos that let you see her magical transformation:

doll is 9 (L) x 2.38 (W) x 12.75 (H), or roughly the size of a Barbie Doll. You can purchase the Disney Princess 2-In-1 Ballgown Surprise Cinderella Doll on Amazon (where it was just over $20 at the time of this review and also eligible for free shipping when you purchase $25 or more in eligible items). The perfect surprise for your little princess!
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Teacup Families

You may remember last year’s review of the Teacup Piggies, one of 2010′s hottest toys, and now this year there’s even more fun with the Teacup families! Not surprisingly these adorable toys are listed as the must have collectible of 2011! With twelve limited edition sets, a Cruisin’ family Van, and a fun-filled Neighborhood Playground Playset, Teacup families are sure to grab the attention of every child this holiday season.

You’ve probably seen their commercial:

We received the Teacup Family Van and an extra set of the Teacup Family (elephants). The set has adorable characters, lots of pieces for imaginative play, and my kids are already asking for the other Teacup Family Members. The pieces are small, however, so this would be better for kids that are older and out of the toddler stage as they could pose a chocking hazard for little ones.

You can purchase the Teacup Family products at major retailers like Walmart, K-mart, Target, ToysRUs, Radio Shack and Walgreens. For more visit the Teacup Family website here, and don’t forget to connect and “like” them on Facebook for the latest!

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Megabloks Blok Squad – Fire Patrol Station

All missions are possible when you work together with four Rescue vehicles as you control their efforts from the Blok Squad Fire Patrol Station! The alarm has gone off inside the Fire Patrol Station! Have your Blok Squad Firefighters slide down the fire pole as they spring into action! Its extra large helipad can handle any size helicopter, while its dual garage doors and full toolbox keep all Fire Patrol ground vehicles rescue ready! Build all four Rescue vehicles and lead the way with the Fire Command 4×4 Truck, climb the ladder to help save trapped people on the top floors with the Ladder Truck TL, airlift trapped civilians out of trouble with the Rescue Chopper and keep them all protected inside the Fire Rescue Carrier! Combine the Fire Patrol Station with other Blok Squad vehicles to build super rescue trucks that can knock down any door, carry injured civilians to a hospital or put out any 5-alarm blaze! Megablok recommends this toy for ages six and up (although my four year old enjoys it just as much as my six year old).

I just love these toys from Megabloks! Not only do they feature everyday heroes, people I encourage my kids to look up to, but it’s hours of fun for kids. Building is great for fine motor skills, and once they’ve completed the set the multiple pieces allow for limitless pretend play. Besides that Megabloks have always proven to be a well made, durable product which is something I need with three kids and a dog! Give this gift this Holiday and I promise it will be one of the first ones they’re begging to open!

This awesome play set with nearly 1000 pieces is available at amazon and at the time of the review was available for $32.99 and qualified for free shipping. Click here to view the Megabloks Blok Squad – Fire Patrol Stationat amazon.

Check out the Megablok’s Blok Squad website for more product information and other similar available sets like the Police Force and Construction Units. For all the latest and more don’t forget to stay connected with MEGABLOK on Facebook and Twitter too!
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Megabloks Hello Kitty Big House

Turn your child into Hello Kitty’s interior designer with this whimsical multistory dollhouse. The four-room house comes pre-assembled, but your child will need to add floors, furniture, and all the cozy, cute extras that Hello Kitty is sure to love. Ideal for decorating and redecorating, the house comes with 70 small pieces of furniture, appliances, and household items that are easy to grip for small hands. The interlocking brick design allows kids to stack and snap items securely into place, keeping everything intact until the next remodel.

The set includes basic, picture-only assembly instructions and suggestions on where to place lamps, beds, sofas, and chairs. But the real fun comes from deciding how to set up and decorate the house. Should Hello Kitty have her own room or bunk together with Mimmy? What about making a rooftop patio where the two can eat their cupcakes?

Dozens of stickers allow for further customization. Your little designer can hang Hello Kitty’s family photos on the walls, attach vegetable stickers to the counters, add a fish tank, and even decide what items should go on Hello Kitty’s bedroom shelf. This set offers endless possibilities for roleplaying and interacting with Hello Kitty and Mimmy.
The Megabloks Hello Kitty House set, which sells for around $42 with free shipping on amazon.com, is also compatible with other Megabloks Hello Kitty building sets (sold separately), allowing kids to add the Megabloks School House (aprox $12), Megabloks Flower Boutique (aprox $29), Megabloks Candy Store(aprox $13), Mega Bloks Hello Kitty Pretty playground (10 pcs aprox $8), and more to create an entire town for Hello Kitty.

Just like other Megablok toys, this set is hours of fun. The blocks are great for encouraging good fine motor skills, and the house and accessories will surely spark your Little Kitty fan’s imagination. In my house I found it interacts well with other Megablok sets too, and we found Little Kitty and Mimmy rescued by none other than the Megablok’s Blok Squad!

For more product information check out the Megablok website, and for all the latest and more don’t forget to stay connected with MEGABLOK on Facebook and Twitter too!
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Vtech – V.Reader Animated E-Book System

 

The Vtech – V.Reader Animated E-Book System is not only a gift that your kids will love, but it’s a gift that you will feel good about giving! Vtech – V.Reader Animated E-Book System is a great way to get kids, ages three to seven, learning whether they realize it or not! The design of the V.Reader is kid friendly (the readers come in both pink and blue), they’re durable and well made (as are all of the Vtech toys I’ve had over the years), and I promise kids will think they’re playing (not learning) as they interact and enjoy stories on the 3.5″ screen. There are actually three ways to play with this awesome toy. Kids can watch the story, do reading games and use the story dictionary. They’ll love the graphics and even I enjoy that the story cartridges use the character’s voices.

Here’s the product’s description detailing all the great features:

Cultivate your child’s love of reading with the V.Reader Interactive E-Reading System. Designed for kids aged 3 to 7, this toy offers three ways to learn. Kids can watch, listen, and read stories, play reading games, and look up words in the story dictionary. The educational games encourage reading by improving vocabulary, writing, and phonetic skills. The V.Reader also features a touch screen sensitive enough for young fingers to operate with or without the included stylus. It’s easy to get started by downloading three books with the included tokens.

Your child will enjoy the V.Reader right from the start, with stories that come alive through interactive graphics, written words, and a narrator that reads the story out loud. The toy comes with enough tokens to download three books from the Internet, so your child can begin to discover the written word right away. The toy also keeps your child engaged with educational reading games, such as the Rhyme Time word-matching activity, What Happened? mystery game, and Hello! Hola! Bonjour! language lab. Each book comes with its own games that encourage reading comprehension, phonics, word building, and many other skills. The toy has its own activities that keep your young one entertained, including a coloring book, photo album, and writing practice games.

A story dictionary in each book helps your child get the most out of reading time. Develop your young one’s vocabulary by going through the story dictionary together. A progress log helps you and your child track growth in all the activities and games. When the toy is connected to your computer, your child can receive certificates of achievement as he or she improves.

As your child grows in ability, the V.Reader can grow too. A cartridge reader allows you to purchase copies of stories and games, and an included USB cable connects the device to your computer so you can download more exciting games and books. In order to store more books on your V.Reader, you will need to purchase a separate SD card . A cover closes over the front to keep the buttons and touch screen safe when the toy is not in use. Your child can also listen to stories through headphones, making it a great toy for the car or quiet time.

In the box you’ll find: V.Reader Interactive e-reader, What’s That Noise? storybook, user manual, USB cable, stylus, and six tokens.

You can purchase the Vtech – V.Reader Animated E-Book System by clicking here (at the time of this review the product was available with free shipping and for $44 if you follow the link. Regular price is $60).

You can learn more about V. Reader and other Vtech toys on their website, by “liking” them on Facebook and Following on Twitter too!

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Amber Shader Photography

 

I, myself, am not artist. I am, however, someone who appreciates art in its many forms. I have always had a passion for photography, but would never dare call myself a photographer. Perhaps it would be better stated, that I am an admirer of photography. My passion lies in what photos can bring, the gift that they can continue to give.

Look upon some photos and they evoke a wave of emotions. Gaze upon the moments, forever captured, and remember the feelings. Allow yourself to slip away and recall the even more from that sliver of time like the sounds and smells or the feeling of an embrace. Photos can be powerful.

I could spend hours looking through photos from my childhood, pictures from my younger years, photos from the last decade with my husband, and of course, all the thousands of memories made with my children. It’s hard to believe that time can go by so quickly, and days that feel like yesterday were actually many years ago, but with pictures, you can bring them right into the present with you.

Photos are such a treasure, and having an artist to capture the special moments is also a gift. I tried my own hand at family pictures (which of course is always a disaster), was disappointed with portrait studios, and have finally be blessed with someone to help me capture the moments on film that I cannot.

Amber Shader is a friend and artist. She is a photographer who specializes in portraiture photography. Amber captures emotional reminders of love, life and laughter in each photo. Her art is so moving, and I’ve literally been brought to tears by some of her images. The look of unconditional love between a parent and child, the endless possibilities of a life together for a newly married couple, the forever-bond between siblings, or the love still burning bright for a couple celebrating a golden anniversary.

Amber recently captured some wonderful pictures at the Brandywine Battlefield in Chadds Ford, PA of my family. Here are just a few of the photos she took:

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Diamond Down Parka from Lands’ End

 

Although the Holiday Season is my favorite time of year, I prefer to spend most of my time decking the halls, enjoying food and family time indoors, drinking hot coco in front of a fire, or any other festive indoor activity. I’m not the biggest fan of colder weather, and prefer watching snow fall from indoors and not necessarily spending too much time out in it. Well, that is until now thanks to my new Diamond Down Parka from Lands’ End.

One of the latest Land’s End women’s coats, the Diamond Down Parka is not only fabulously fashionable, it’s also totally functional and will keep you warm and cozy all winter long. My last parka, which I’m sad to report was not a Lands’ End jacket, was fairly warm, but it also was very bulky and puffy. The jacket was white and I swear I looked like the State Puffed Marshmellow Man when I wore it. I was so thrilled with how compact and smooth the Diamond Down Parka from Lands’ End is. The 600 fill power down is sure to keep you warm since it’s really nature’s best insulator. The outer shell of the coat is smooth, not stiff like many other parkas. It’s also made with Lands’ End DriOff™ finish which easily sheds snow and wet leaving you warm and dry.

This mid-thigh level coat is slightly shaped and I think it gives a feminine touch. It also features a belt which can be worn or not depending on your preference. The hood, which is also down filled, is adorned with a faux fur trim and easily snaps on and off, again depending on your preference. The Lands’ End tempature rating on the Diamond Down Parka is warmest and when worn with a typical winter wardrobe this jacket will keep you “warmest: -30° to -5° Fahrenheit.”

The Diamond Down Parka is available in the following colors: Rich Red (shown in the picture above which is the color I received and LOVE), Black, Dark Mahogany, Ivory, Pink Begonia, Angel Blue, and Deep Amethyst. The coat comes in Regular, Petite and Plus sizes.

So now, instead of dreading the winter weather, I’m actually looking forward to it. I’ve had several cold days where I was thrilled to bundle up in this parka, and I can’t wait to show it off this season! I even took the dog for several morning walks when we had below freezing temperatures and didn’t mind it at all. Not only does it feel really warm, but it’s slightly shaped style I find flattering, particularly for a winter coat. I also found that for me, the jacket was true to size.

There are some fabulous sales going on throughout the Holiday season at Lands’ End where you can get a great deal on this, as well as tons of other apparel, for women, men and children.

Visit their website for a full line of products, “like” them on Facebook for all the latest, and don’t forget to Follow on Twitter @LandsEnd too!
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Air & Water’s

NewAir 12 Bottle

Countertop Thermoelectric Wine Cooler

Air-n-Water.com are your portable appliance experts. Whether you are looking for small appliances, vacuums, air purifiers, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, air conditioning, heating, thermostats, water dispensing, wine cooling (my favorite), or more, you’ve got no better place than Air-n-Water.com. They offer fast shipping, great prices, top brands, and great guarantees (like free shipping both ways and no restocking fees). Their website is easy to navigate, they have Live Chat Help available, shipment guaranteed within 24 hours, and products feature customer reviews. They also offer great discounts and sales (even one special for Domestic Diva readers at the end of this post).

Recently, I had a chance to review the Air & Water’s NewAir 12 Bottle Countertop Thermoelectric Wine Cooler. This thermoelectric wine cooler features a premium stainless door trim with double paned, tempered glass. It also has a soft light (which you can leave on or turn off) that illuminates your wine collection. The wine cooler runs quietly thanks to its thermoelectric cooling system with no compressor which also creates minimal vibrations (I haven’t noticed any). The temperature display on the front is easy to read and adjust if necessary, and it keeps your wine stored under your best designated conditions. On the interior of the wine cooler, the premium chrome plated shelves not only look great, but also prevent excessive vibration and sediment accumulation.

Aside from it’s sleek modern design, quiet running, and cooling of up to twelve of my favorite bottles of wine, I love the compact nature of this wine cooler! It’s small enough for a table or counter top, and have I mentioned the price? Totally affordable. The Air-n-Water.com price the day this was written was $161.95 (with free shipping), and that’s a great discount considering that the list price is $210! Even better, Air-n-Water.com are offering you an extra $15 off when you use the promo code DIVINEWINE through 12/31/11.

For more specifications and information on the NewAir AW-121E 12 Bottle Countertop Thermoelectric Wine Cooler, visit the Air-n-Water.com website.

Aside from this perfect gift for any wine enthusiast, check out their other fabulous items perfect for the Holidays! You can also keep up with their latest and greatest products and deals by “liking” them on Facebook, and don’t forget to follow them on Twitter too!
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Microdermabrasion and Exfoliation

at Home Treatments

from ShopNBC

 

As a woman in my early thirties, I’ve begun to notice subtle skin changes. A few fine lines have begun to make their presence known, and as I think back to all the tanning booths and sunscreen free days I spent baking in the sun, I begin to worry. What sort of sun damage have I done? Is there a way to heal my skin? What will I do when the sun damage becomes really obvious? How will I treat full blown wrinkles, and most importantly, how much will it cost??

Sure you can pay for expensive treatments, but you can also save hundreds (if not thousands) with the fabulous line of Microdermabrasion and Exfoliation at home treatments from ShopNBC! I have seen products like these before, but always assumed they were too expensive. It’s not the case at ShopNBC at all! Especially because of all the money you save doing it yourself at home. The kit I was able to try was the PMD Personal Microderm At Home System which, at the time of this review, had a sale price less than $100! The regular price is $108, but the retail value is over $200.

The PMD Personal Microderm At Home System was easy to use, and after just a few treatments I can really see a difference in my skin. It’s listed benefits include:

BARBAR Hair Tools

BAR-2300 1″ 1/2 Professional Flat Iron

 

Every once in a while, I come across a product that I’d call life changing. The BARBAR Titanium Plate Ionic 2300 1″ 1/2 Flat Iron is one of those products.

I have naturally curly hair which is rather unruly, and in particular, my hair hates (yes, it has emotions and seems to have a mind all its own), being straightened. The only time a real straightening has ever really looked good and taken place is when I have it done professionally. The combination of professional products and their professional tools seems to make all the difference. Whenever I tried to straighten my hair at home it took twice as long with a not-so-professional result. Most days, in fact, I had to use my old iron again later in the day to ensure no waves or curls came creeping back in.

Cue the BARBAR Titanium Plate Ionic 2300 1″ 1/2 Flat Iron. It is a professional item that you can actually use on wet or dry hair. I’ve been able to cut 45 minutes off my straightening with this iron! It’s like magic….or maybe it’s just the way it was made. The BARBAR Titanium Plate Ionic 2300 1″ 1/2 Flat Iron “can be used on wet or dry hair to reduce styling time without burning or damaging hair, due to the ionic ventilation holes that seal in moisture. Equipped with titanium plates, the BARBAR 2300 lasts longer and performs stronger than ceramic, and heats up evenly use after use.”

Some of it’s features include an iconic charger, heats to 450 degrees F, swivel cord, digital temperature display, MCH ceramic heater, AC 50/60HZ, Current 1.9 amp, 1 1/2″ Titanium plate, and one year limited warranty. It retails for $165.

The time I’ve saved and the results I’ve gotten myself are well worth the $165 retail price. My old iron was about half the price and the results don’t even compare.

So give yourself the gift of professionally straight hair with theBARBAR Titanium Plate Ionic 2300 1″ 1/2 Flat Iron this Holiday! They also have a full line of professional hair tools. Be sure to check out their website, “like” them on Facebook and connect on Twitter too!
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Frankley.com

Frankley.com was an idea born from the sad state of intimates that Jenni Timony witnessed one day in a friend’s laundry basket. She saw bras that were worn, faded, and even under-wire exposed. When Frankley.com founder joked with her friend she replied, “Who has time for bra shopping? I’ve got enough going on for three people.”

And you know what? I’m sort of embarrassed to admit it, but I can totally relate. There was a time I took great care in my undergarments. I hand washed some, delicate cycles for the others, and I certainly didn’t wear any that had holes, torn fabric or the ever-annoying under-wire that stabs me now throughout the day. I also enjoyed shopping for intimates. So what’s changed? Well, I’m married, have three kids, enough laundry to drown a person, and not nearly enough time for myself. The result is underwear with fraying elastic, bras that get washed with everything else and just don’t stand a chance. I do buy underwear frequently, but that’s for my kids who seem to grow a size every six months or so.

Jenni Timony recognized that her friend (and my) situation was not a unique one. Frankley.com, a subscription underwear service was born. Her idea began in San Fransisco and is a trendy favorite there, but it’s so much more than that. It’s smart, convenient, and makes my life easier. And subscriptions are so easy! You can choose to have these fantastic, hand-picked items delivered right to your door every two, three or six months!

I was sent underwear for my entire family, and we were all thrilled with what we received. The boys both received a three pack of organic cotton briefs which are super soft, fit true to size, and washed and dried without shrinking. Cecilia was tickled with her stylish toddler “days of the week” panties each with a different design, and she even kept the zippered pouch they came in as an extra “purse” to play with. My husband’s boxers were also great. The cotton boxers are thicker than a pair of Hanes boxers, yet they are also light and comfortable. I received a bra and several pairs of underwear all true to size, washed and dried well and all very soft and comfortable. Best of all, I’m pretty sure, no matter which subscription length I choose, these garments will stand the test of time. However, if we wore them every day, I didn’t take proper care wash them delicately, I can at least rest easy know more will be coming from Frankley.com.

So catch the latest trend. Be smart. Be stylish. Be chic. And for goodness sakes, get yourself (and everyone else in your house) some Frankley.com. Visit their website for more information and to order, and of course you can follow them on Twitter @frankleyjenni and Facebook too!
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