Whole Fruit Smoothies and Sweet Cinnamon SUPERPRETZELS...

First, I have to admit that I've been holding out on you, my readers.  Last fall, I was sent some Whole Fruit Smoothies and Sweet Cinnamon SUPERPRETZELS to review, and then life got crazy with Isaac's arrival and I'm just now getting to tell you about them!

But, better late than never, right? 

Let's start with these smoothies....

Overall, I really like these!  Coming in at only 100 calories each, they're great for a low cal snack or part of a healthy breakfast.   Personally, I wish they were a little bigger so that they could constitute a more substantial portion, but I get the appeal of having them at 100 calories. 

These would be ideal for all you folks who are trying to lose some extra pounds with the new year.  ;) 

The directions say to stick them in the microwave for 20 seconds to soften, and I often just eat them with a spoon like ice cream.  I could see (and had planned to before Isaac changed my plan) sticking them in my bag on the way out the door to work, where I'd expect they'd be just the right consistency by the time I would have arrived at my desk.  A great little way to start the day!

I'm not sure the packaging really lends itself to drinking them through a straw like a traditional smoothie, but that's alright with me.  I'm more than happy to use my spoon.  :)

Let's talk flavors...Strawberry Banana, Pineapple Mango and Mixed Berry.  All delicious, but my favorite was by far the Pineapple Mango.  What can I say, I like-a the mango.  (hehe)  It had a great tropical flavor that always makes me happy. 

You can find the Whole Fruit Smoothies at your local grocer in the freezer section.  I'd highly suggest giving them a try! 

Also, be sure to visit Whole Fruit's website, and connect with them on Facebook for special offers.

Now for the pretzels....

I've never been a huge pretzel fan, but you know if I was going to down some pretzels, they'd have to be covered in some cinnamon sugar!  Pretty delicious, if you ask me.

These babies have cinnamon infused dough and come with a cinnamon sugar packet to add yourself.  They bake up soft and delicious in your oven and make for a great snack.  You could even have them for breakfast or even as dessert.  (perhaps with a side of ice cream? oh my.)

These too can be found in the freezer section at your local grocer...give them a try!

You can find fun recipe ideas and more info on SUPERPRETZEL's website.  Connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, and they even have a blog!

Anyone tried either of these products?  What did you think?

**I was gifted an assortment of Whole Fruit Smoothies and Sweet Cinnamon SUPERPRETZELs free of charge in compensation for my honest review of the product. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are truthful and solely my own.

Baby K'tan Review...

Remember when I had the big Baby Shower Event here on the blog back in September?

Well, the kind folks over at Baby K'tan sent me a carrier to review after BabyD arrived!

Me looking oh-so frazzled.  Isaac was about 2 weeks old when this picture was taken.  Look at him all snuggly in there!  And look at how swollen my hands still were!  Yikes!

I have to say, I did not make good enough use of this in the beginning, partially because I was scared to strap any extra weight to myself for quite some time while I recovered from my c-section. However, the days I did remember, it was a fantastic way to get some things done when Isaac just refused to let me put him down. {Or when I just couldn't tear myself away from his sweet little face!}

First impression?  I was a little worried about picking a size.  It's hard to determine what size you'll be after birth when you're a giant house of a pregnant woman who's about to pop!  Just sayin'.  I went with the medium, and it seems to be working well.

Like any wrap carrier, I had to learn how to put the Baby K'tan on, but I must say, it really is quite simple. There's no real wrapping with this carrier since it's a big loop {kinda like a figure 8}, so that makes it way easier to get on and off.

At first I was concerned that it was too tight, but Baby K'tan's helpful twitter presence assured me that it looked perfect! Besides wearing it to get things done around the house, I've also used the Baby K'tan at Target, and even across the street to have dinner with the neighbors. It's so helpful whenever you'll be standing for long periods of time. Really helps keep your back and arms from hurting!

So far, I'm loving it!

I'll be posting more about the Baby K'tan throughout Isaac's first year...stay tuned!

Baby K'tan is offering jdavissquared readers 15% off now through January 31st with coupon code BKJD15.  Valid only on full priced Baby K'tan brand items on www.babyktan.com

*Baby K'tan sent me a carrier in exchange for this review

Thank you!

What a fun week it's been here on the blog!  I hope you have all enjoyed the posts, and the fantastic giveaways from our sponsors!  There is still time to enter all the giveaways...they'll be up and active until 12:01 Eastern on 10/04, and winners will be announced shortly after.  You can find all the giveaways and reviews here. 

I wanted to also take a moment and thank our sponsors again.  All these companies were so generous to offer up their wonderful products, not only to our sweet BabyD, but many of them to you all as well!  I cannot wait to try out all the great things we received! 

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend, sweet friends!  We are bound and determined to finish up BabyD's nursery.  We are THIS CLOSE!  I'm also planning on spending a little time with my sister, and I'm hoping to make some crock pot soup on Sunday.  Any suggestions for great recipes?

Swaddle Designs Review & Giveaway...

Swaddle Designs has a wide variety of products for baby, including blankets, burp cloths and even an adult swaddle wrap!  Seriously.  Take a look around their website!  As much as I know I'd enjoy that adult wrap, I'm so excited that they offered to send me a Swaddle Lite set of 3 Marquisette Blankets and a White Noise CD from The Happiest Baby for BabyD.

It was so hard to decide which adorable print to choose from their line of Swaddle Lites.  I ultimately went with the Jewel Tone Turquoise set.  I love the cute little birds, and turquoise and green are great for boys or girls!

The lightweight fabric of these blankets is awesome!  They would be great for babies born in warmer temps.  Since BabyD is due in November, we'll probably be bundling him/her up, but I still think these will be perfect inside.  I was really impressed with how big they are!  46"  x 46".  And, I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE that they each have a tag with a 1-2-3 Swaddle instructional label sewn in to help us learn to swaddle correctly!  I know that will come in handy in the early days. 

The Swaddle Designs website also has great information on How To Swaddle.  We'll certainly be referencing that as well. 

The White Noise CD, by Dr. Harvey Karp, Author of the Happiest Baby on the Block promises to add 1-3 hours to baby's sleep cycle.  Um, yes, please!  While some of the sounds seem a little scary to me, I totally believe this just might work!  I actually have a white noise app on my phone that I use when I'm having trouble falling asleep, and it works like a charm every time.  The CD has sounds for soothing fussing.  The "fast & vigorous" one is the one that sounds scary to me.  It's even described as "strange" right on the label, but hey, whatever works!  There are also sounds for increasing sleep.  They're more "womb" sounds, much like what you hear on the doplar at the Dr.'s office.  Of course, my favorite is the rain noise.  We could both nap to that one! I'm excited to give that a try. 

Swaddle Designs has generously offered up a Swaddle Lite set for one of you readers!  Enter to win via the form below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Be sure to check out all the great reviews and giveaways that are part of the baby shower event!  Posts have been going up all week!

I was given a Swaddle Lite and White Noise CD in exchange for this review, but all opinions remain my own.
 

Wall Sticker Company Review...

The kind people at The Wall Sticker Company sent us one of their Perched Owl wall stickers for review.

For starters, their shipping from Australia was super fast and it made it all the way from down under in perfect condition. 

It took me a while to figure out the best place for our new little hooty friend, but eventually, I decided on using it in BabyD's bathroom.  We received lots of frog bathroom things at our shower, so we thought we'd start there for a theme.  We painted the walls a soft yellow {it looks a little brighter in the photos}, and I came across the perfect shower curtain at Target that pulled it all together!  There aren't any frogs on it, but there are owls, and squirrels and trees....so we have a happy little woodland theme in the bathroom.  I think the Perched Owl wall sticker adds the perfect touch to make it extra special!

We did have a little problem at first, as the decal didn't work exactly as the instructions described.  They said to gently scratch the top layer {to get the decal to stick to it} and pull it up to then stick on the wall.  That did not work for us at all.  I emailed our contact at the company, and she said that they could re-do the top layer adhesive, but that it would be difficult to get it to us in time for this week's festivities, so we decided to give it a go by just peeling and sticking per her advice, which as you can see, was a success!  It was definitely a feat that required all four of our hands...no way you'd be able to do it this way by yourself.  Hence no in-progress photos. 

Overall, I'm so happy with the way it turned out!  I'm sure it's easier when you can position it through the clear upper layer, but this way worked just great with a little patience. 

I love the whimsy that it adds to the bathroom, and can just imagine our little one pointing up to it someday and saying "hoo, hoo!". 

Thanks Wall Sticker Company!

You can find the Wall Sticker Company's website here.
Like them on Facebook.  {I spy a great coupon code!}
Follow them on Pinterest.
Follow them on Twitter.

Be sure to check out all the great reviews and giveaways that are part of the baby shower event!  Posts are going up all week!

I was given a wall sticker from The Wall Sticker Company in exchange for this review, but all opinions remain my own.

Medela Calma Bottle Review & Giveaway...

I plan on breastfeeding whenever possible, but at some point, we will need to be able to feed from a bottle.  I want Jon to be able to participate in feedings, and at some point we'll want to be able to leave the baby with Grammy for the evening, not to mention when I go back to work.  We've all heard how difficult it can be to switch from breast to bottle and back again.  I've never quite understood why.  Until now.

Calma is specifically designed based on research done on how breastfed babies nurse.  The Calma system is made to mimic breastfeeding.  Baby is able to control the flow of milk through creating a vacuum, just like they do at the breast.  The Calma nipple is also designed to fit in the baby's mouth just like your own nipple does.  {which is quite surprising, considering how long it looks!  Who knew your nipple expanded that much? Ha!}

Now, I've never known much about what makes one bottle better than another, but I can see how this one would be great for a breastfed baby.  I'm looking forward to using Calma as our bottle alternative to nursing.  The Calma nipples will work seamlessly with my Medela breast pump.

Medela has a great video that shows exactly how Calma works.  I'd recommend taking a look at it!
You can find retailers for Calma here.

Also of note, Medela let me know about the iBreastfeed App, available in the Apple App Store.  It provides information and resources for breastfeeding along with helping you track your breastfeeding and pumping for up to six babies.  {yikes!}  I've already downloaded it so I can familiarize myself with how it works before BabyD makes his/her arrival.

One lucky jdavissquared reader is going to get a free Calma breastmilk feeding set of their very own!
a Rafflecopter giveaway Be sure to check out all the great reviews and giveaways that are part of the baby shower event!  Posts are going up all week!

I was given a Medela Calma Bottle in exchange for this review, but all opinions remain my own.

Woombie Wrap & Snap Baby Swaddler Review...

I'm not gonna lie.  The first time I saw a Woombie, I immediately thought "baby straight jacket".

That being said, I've heard great things about this product!  The Woombie makes it easy to swaddle your baby, and its uniquely designed four way stretch fabric is made to mimic the womb, making your baby feel nice and secure.  Swaddling is said to help babies sleep better, and keeps them from inadvertently startling themselves or scratching their own face.

It was immediately evident to me that the Woombie is very well constructed.  I love this cute design, and that I can adjust the tightness of the swaddling around the arms with the velcro fasteners.  The fabric feels so soft and high quality.  I could see how a baby would snuggle in for the night in it.  Also, there's a double zipper, which makes for easy diaper changes.

Can't wait to make a little BabyD Burrito. ;)

Visit Woombie's website at www.woombie.com 
 Follow Woombie on Facebook

Be sure to check out all the great reviews and giveaways that are part of the baby shower event!  Posts are going up all week!

I was given a Woombie in exchange for this review, but all opinions remain my own.

Sensible Lines Milk Trays Review & Giveaway....

As a first time mom-to-be, I'm admittedly quite clueless when it comes to breastfeeding, let alone breast pumping and milk storage.  {I'm hoping to feel more confident on the subject come tomorrow evening when we take our breastfeeding class!}  Seems to me that the simpler the solution, the better it would work.

I've seen the breast milk bags in the nursing section of Target, but those just look messy and expensive!  When I came across Milk Trays by Sensible Lines, I knew they looked like something worth trying. 

I love the idea that the milk gets frozen in perfect one ounce bars, which makes measuring easy and waste free.  Milk can be frozen in the BPA-free, medical grade trays, and then stored in regular freezer bags for up to four months.  When you're ready to use, you can simply take out the quantity you need, thaw and use.  I can't imagine it getting any simpler.  Plus, the versatile shape of the trays means the frozen bars will fit through any bottle opening on the market. Also, the trays are reusable, which will keep costs down....always a bonus!

I know the whole breast feeding thing will take some trial and error, but I'm confident with this system, freezing the milk won't be a cause for worry!

The kind ladies at Sensible Lines have offered up a breast milk freezing system for one lucky jdavissquared reader!  Fill out the form below to enter to win!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Be sure to check out all the great reviews and giveaways that are part of the baby shower event!  Posts are going up all week!
I was given a set of Milk Trays from Sensible Lines in exchange for this review, but all opinions remain my own.   

Moby Wrap Review & Giveaway...

I've always been intrigued by baby wearing.  I've seen moms out and about with their babies strapped into these wraps and always thought they looked so cozy.  At the same time, I was mesmerized with how on earth the moms were able to tie that wrap!

Since getting pregnant, I've learned a little more about Moby Wraps, and knew I wanted to reach out to them for the baby shower event here on jdavissquared.  I'm thrilled that they were willing to participate, and am so excited to kick off this week of reviews and giveaways with the Moby Wrap!

I chose the Original Wrap in Leaf as shown above.  I love the rich green color, and felt like it will transition well from season to season.  My first impression was of the darling packaging.  The wrap comes perfectly rolled up and in a self fabric bag. 

Jon and I "tested" out tying the wrap using the detailed instruction booklet that came with it.  {There are also great instructions on the website, along with videos!} Honestly, it was slightly intimidating at first.  This wrap is LONG!  Definitely something I'll have to plan ahead to wear.  For instance, I could see myself putting it on before leaving the house if I plan to carry BabyD around the store, and then place them in it when I get there.  Not something you want to be trying to tie in a parking lot.
It didn't take long before we realized it's really quite simple.  I think it will just take a little practice.

I had planned to take pictures of me wearing it, but it was a little awkward with the belly!  I can see how it will fit much better after the baby is born.  

One thing I haven't quite figured out, is how to store it.  I'm not sure I'll ever get it rolled back up like it came.  Any advice for "neat" storage?  You know, other than wadding it into a ball? 

And now for the super fun part....One jdavissquared reader is going to get a Moby Wrap of their very own!  Fill out the form below for your chance to win!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Be sure to check out all the great reviews and giveaways that are part of the baby shower event!  Posts are going up all week!

I was given a Moby Wrap in exchange for this review, but all opinions remain my own.
 

Hooknook Giveaway from Flip and Tumble...

Another fun giveaway for you guys this week!  Aren't you lucky?

This week, we're giving away a Hooknook from Flip & Tumble. I've worked with them before and they are one of my favorite companies!  {such super nice people} Best known for their fun shopping bags, they've now started branching out into new products like this one.  The hooknook is a wall hook with built in storage.  It could easily be used at a workspace, but I chose to use the one they sent me as a purse/key holder by the door.  We are horrible at leaving keys strewn about, so I thought it'd be nice to have a centralized place to keep them.

At first we kinda struggled with where to put it.  This was by no fault of the Hooknook itself, just a challenge due to the layout of our entry from the garage.  {which is the entry we use most}  Once I decided on a spot, Jon had it installed within minutes.  {It comes with all the hardware you need, and well, he's a handyman stud!} 

It has worked great.  When we remember to put the keys in there, of course.  It's sleek style and modern look is definitely an eye catcher.  Friends notice it immediately and want to know, "What is that?"  "Oh, that's cool!"

Yep, simple, useful, cute.  Hooknook.

Okay, who wants one?  I've got a Hooknook with somebody's name on it!  Winner will be drawn 2/28.  US residents only, please. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Ruby Snap Giveaway...

Holy smokes, this weekend flew by!  It was fantastic, but way. too. short.  We spent the evening hangin' with the neighbors on Friday, and let me just say, I HAVE to limit myself to one Caipirinha from now on.   Two is just no bueno for me.....I mean, I enjoy them, but I pay for it the next day!

The rest of the weekend included a first birthday party for one of our favorite little dudes, and a trip to the pumpkin patch!  {recap coming soon!}

Okay, now for the real topic of the day....

1. Today is the last day to enter to win a fabulous Fabric & Handle Tote .  Do not miss out on this opportunity...these bags are the bomb-diggity.  {Does anyone still say that?}

2. I have another sweet giveaway to announce today.  One lucky reader will win a box of one dozen assorted cookies courtesy Ruby Snap!
If you win, you might go out of your mind with excitement when the box arrives on your doorstep.  I mean, look at it, how cute is that!?

Then, you'll probably have a hard time deciding which beautiful cookie to sink your teeth into first....
Oh, and you'll want to make sure you have lots of ice cold milk on hand to wash these babies down with.

In all seriousness, though, I was super impressed with Ruby Snap's unique flavor combinations.  We're talking lemon sugar cookies with lemonheads and lemon glaze {the Lilly....and my mouth just started watering thinking of all that tart lemon...yum!} and mangos and dark chocolate {the Vivianna...I lik-a the mango!}

I do sort of wish the box had come with a list of what was included, but Jon and I had fun trying to figure out what each cookie was made of.

We each ended up with our favorite, mine being the Suzie, cherries and milk chocolate with pink bling.  Tasted just like a cherry cordial!  Jon's favorite was the peanut butter dipped in chocolate. {Which I'm not finding on the website, so I don't know it's name....we'll just call it the Jon.}  No surprise there.  The boy loves everything peanut butter and chocolate, and this was no exception!

Ruby Snap is located in Salt Lake City, Utah, but will ship these yummy creations right to your doorstep!  You can order baked cookies like you see here, or just the dough so you can bake 'em yourself.  They'd make a great gift for sending to your sweetheart for their birthday, don't you think?

One reader is going to get a complimentary dozen!  Who's it gonna be?

Become a follower of jdavissquared, then hop over to Ruby Snap's website , and tell me which flavor you'd most like to try.

For additional entries, you can do the following...{please leave separate comments for each.}

• "Like" Ruby Snap on Facebook .  
• "Like" jdavissquared on Facebook .
  
• Follow Ruby Snap on Twitter .
• Follow jdavissquared on Twitter.
  
• Tweet about this giveaway.  {be sure to mention @jdavissquared and @RubySnap}   

Feel free to copy and paste this tweet:

I want @RubySnap's cookies! Giveaway @jdavissquared  http://ow.ly/6LLnk  

Giveaway is open to followers in the continental U.S., and will run through Monday October 10th.  Winner will be announced on Tuesday, October 11th.  Good luck!  

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS CLOSED***find out who won here.

*Fine print:  I was given a box of free cookies for this review.  All opinions are my own.

Sodastream Review...

A while back, the nice people at Sodastream sent me one of their Jet soda makers to review, along with a ton of syrups.  I was absolutely blown away with their generosity and cannot even describe how excited I was to try it out.





Now, in all honesty, I'm not a big soda drinker.  However, I do enjoy a bubbly drink on occasion.  Jon doesn't drink as much soda as he used to {There was a time he was downing a 12 pack of Mountain Dew every day and a half.} but he has at least a glass or two a day.

We usually buy two liters, haul them home, store them, and then recycle the empties.  What I love about Sodastream, is that all of that is eliminated.  There's no buying bulky two liters, and the waste is dramatically decreased.  {One bottle of syrup makes 12 liters!}  Plus, they're variety of flavors really does offer something for everyone.  Diet Soda, Cream Soda, Energy Drinks....Diet Peach Iced Tea, Orange Mango, Root Beer!  For real, they have every flavor you could possibly want.

They also have MyWater Flavor Essences that add just a touch of flavor to a glass of water, sparkling or not, which is straight up my alley.  I love me some H2O!


But, it's probably a pain to make, right?  Absolutely not!  It's super easy!  I thought the best way to show you how easy it is, would be to actually show you!  So, I'd like to present to you the first video of me to grace this blog.  {sure, I felt a little awkward, but you guys gotta see how easy this is!}




If you're a soda drinker, I highly recommend this product.  It's easy, convenient, and saves time and money.  What more could you ask for?

You can find Sodastream makers and products online and at many popular retailers such as Macy's, Kohl's, Sears, Bed Bath and Beyond, among many more.  Check out the where to buy section of their website to find a retailer near you!

Tell me, what's your favorite flavor of soda?  
Aaaaaand, do you say soda or pop?  I think I say both at different times. 

In the interest of full disclosure, as stated above, I received product from this company in exchange for a review.  
That being said, all opinions are my own.  I'd never lie to you, my friends.

Knockout!

                                            Source: ffffound.com via jennifer on Pinterest

A while back, I was given another chance to review CSN Stores. After stumbling through their GIGANTIC stock, I finally decided on some boxing gloves and pads.  Seems a little random, no?  I think it was inspired by the new trainers on the Biggest Loser, and their focus on boxing.

Anyway, yesterday we finally gave them a go!  Let me tell you, it was so much fun!  It's pretty amazing how great punching something feels, and holy cow, it's a great workout!  I had sweat dripping off of me I'm sure I looked as elegant as the girl in the poster above.  :)

I started by running a mile on the treadmill, then we boxed for about 15 minutes, and then I ran another mile.  It was nice to break up the running a bit, and add something new! 

This was one of the only workouts Jon and I have ever made it through together without getting in an argument.  Probably because it was perfectly acceptable for me to punch him.  {on the pads, of course.}

I'm definitley feeling sore today, but in a good way!  You know?

31 day challenge:  13 down, 18 to go!

{I can tell I've been exerting a lot more energy than usual.  I pretty much passed out on the couch Friday night {no alcohol involved}.  Jon finally got me to go to bed, poor guy.  I slept like a log.}

Have you ever boxed, or tried any activities out of your usual routine?  Tell me about it!

Another successful experience with CSN Stores.  Seriously guys, they're the real deal. 

Helliemae's Salt Caramels Giveaway Winner Announced...

Thanks to everyone for entering this week's giveaway, and thank you to Ellen of Helliemae's Salt Caramels for offering up her delicious creations to the jdavissquared faithful!

The moment you've all been wainting for...

Congratulations Domestic Diva!  We'll be contacting you shortly to arrange to get you your prize!

For those of you who didn't win {I wish everyone could win!}:
visit Helliemae's, make a purchase, or bookmark it for later.
follow @helliemaes on twitter
like Helliemae's on Facebook.

Helliemae's Salt Caramels Review and Giveaway...

dGood morning, friends!  I hope you all had a delightful weekend.  Mine was full and busy, but in the best kind of way.
I thought it would be fun to kick off this week with a review and giveaway!  How does that sound? {insert collective cheers here.}

I recently had the pleasure of trying Helliemae's Salt Caramels.  While reading the website, I found myself drooling over the description of the classic salt caramels:  "traditional deep, rich, buttery caramels accented with flaky, crunchy sea salt on top"...um, yes please!  Well, let me tell you, they did not disappoint!  These treats are the real deal.  I've had some other salt caramels that were quite frankly, too salty and not very good.  Helliemae's on the other hand capture that perfect balance of salty & sweet.  This is no doubt due to the quality ingredients and homemade attention that goes into each batch.  Helliemae's owner, Ellen, makes each 4 pound batch  by hand.  Ellen prides herself in sourcing ingredients locally in her hometown of Denver.  She uses organic and hormone free ingredients, and her packaging is 100% recycled. She even stamps each box by hand.

Upon receiving my salt caramels in the mail, I was immediately impressed with the presentation.  The kraft paper box with the stamped top presented these homemade delights so well.  Once you open the box, you get whiffs of the treat that lies inside.  Each caramel is individually wrapped in parchment paper, and has a wonderful old-fashioned vibe to it.  I was blown away with the size of each piece as well.  Measuring about 1 1/2 inches square, they make for the perfect, satisfying treat!

{Helliemae's Caramels also come in Coffee, Cardamom and seasonal flavors like Caramel Apple and Candy Cane.  Yum!} 

If you're a Denver resident, you can find a list of local establishments that carry Helliemae's Salt Caramels here.  The rest of us can buy the treats online here.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Okay, now for the part you've all been waiting for.  Ellen has offered up a box of Classic Salt Caramels to one lucky jdavissquared reader!  {Thanks, Ellen!}

{This giveaway is now closed.  Go here to see who won! }

Elliven Studio Giveaway Winner...

Congratulations Jessica!  I will pass your email on to Julie from Elliven!   She will contact you shortly to get your prize out to you!

{Add:   I just now made the connection.  Jessica and I go waaay back...we went to kindergarten together!  I knew her as Jessica N.  How fun is that!?}

Thanks everyone for entering.  Don't you just love giveaways?

****************************************************************

If you have a product you'd like to see reviewed here on jdavissquared, or if you'd like to sponsor a giveaway, email me.  Let's chat!

Elliven Studio Giveaway...

I'm super excited to announce this next giveaway!

I've been following Julie's blog, Elliven for a few months, and have absolutely fallen in love with her designs!  Julie has a fantastic eye for color and making things fun and girlie without crossing over into that obnoxious place.  {you know what I'm talking about.}  Not to mention she's a total sweetie! 

I've showcased my favorite designs in the collage above.  That green hounds tooth sequin clutch makes my heart go pitter-patter! 

I highly, highly recommend you hop over and check out her shop. 

The best part:

Julie is offering one small zipper pouch to one luck jdavissquared reader!
If chosen as the winner, you'll get to pick any item from this section of her shop.

aaaand, right now Julie has a fantastic promotion going.  She's fast approaching 100 sales, and to celebrate she's offering 20% off with coupon code: ONEHUNDRED

****************************************************************

This giveaway is now closed!  See this post to find out who the winner was!

OPI Review and Giveaway...

Until recently, I've only ever owned one bottle of OPI polish. {Gasp!}  Lucky for you {and me} the kind folks at OPI sent me some polish to review, and share!  HOORAY!

Now, this polish definitely lived up to it's reputation!  Great colors {fun names}, great coverage, quick drying and long lasting.

The glitter polish was especially fun!  I even played around with layering the glitter as tips over the solid shades as a twist on a french manicure.  {Shame on me for not taking pictures of that!  It was pretty fabulous.}

I'd definitely recommend OPI.  It's a little pricey, if you're frugal like me, but splurge on a great shade for the season!  It will be totally worth it!

I could drone on and on about how awesome it is, but I bet you guys would rather get to the giveaway!  Without further ado, here's what's up for grabs:

There will be three, yes THREE winners!  Each will receive two bottles of OPI polish, one shimmer, and one glitter. 

{for this giveaway, I'm trying out a google docs form. I think this will be easier, not only for me, but for you to enter.  No pesky commenting over and over, just fill out the form, and you're entered, including bonus entries!}

****This give away is now closed.  Winner to be announced shortly!****

CSN Stores....

What's the one place you can get everything from a wooden swing set to a crock pot?  CSN Stores, of course!

I realized recently, that I never told you guys about my experience with CSN Stores.  When I mentioned my love of crock pots last Friday, it jogged my memory.  See, I got this great crock pot from their site, and I could not be happier with it!  It's easy, and programmable.  I can set it for 6 hours {or 2, 4 or 8}, and it will switch over to warm when the time's up.  Love it!  I'm not sure what I did before this little appliance.  If you don't have a crock pot, do yourself a favor and get one!

Now, that being said, if you haven't yet checked out CSN Stores, you're missing out there too.  They have over 200 stores with anything and everything you could possibly want.  Save yourself a trip around town, and hop online to do your shopping.  Their customer service was fantastic, and they even upgraded my shipping at no extra cost!  Thanks CSN!

What's your favorite kitchen appliance?

The fine print:  In the interest of transparency, I think it's important for you to know that I am receiving complementary products in return for a review from CSN.  However, my opinions are honest and my own.  

Fairytale Brownies Review...

Last week, we recieved a Valentine Cookie & Brownie Combo from Fairytale Brownies to review.  Oh boy, this was a fun one!

First, let's talk about the packaging.  These babies came in a sweet little box, all pretty for Valentine's Day.  {now, I know I mentioned not really liking Valentine's Day, but I do like the treats that come along with it, who doesn't!?} 

With the yummy assortment of cookies and brownies, we didn't know where to start! I love that they're all individually wrapped, so there's no huge rush to snarf them all down in two days. We can savor them!

We still have not tried them all, but the ones we have eaten, have been super yummy!  For instance, we zapped the caramel brownie for a few seconds in the microwave, and it was heaven!  Oie, goie caramel in a super moist chocolate brownie, yes please! 

Jon has certainly enjoyed this one too.  Is it just me, or is it really hard to figure out something to get for your man on Valentine's Day that isn't way cheesy, and probably embarrassing for him?  How fun would it be to send a box of cookies and/or brownies to your man at work!?  Awe, that'd be sweet!  {pun intended!} 

I think it makes a great gift for anyone, really.  Unless they're one of those weirdo's who doesn't like delicious desserts or something. 


And, right now, Fairytale Brownies is running a special for 20% off the entire site.  Just enter SAVE20 at checkout to receive this great discount.  But hurry, it's only good through tomorrow, Friday 2/4/11! 

To place an order for Valentine's Day, you have til February 9th for standard shipping and can order as late as February 11th! 

Fairytale Brownies has gift boxes for all occasions, not just Valentine's Day, and they deliver anywhere in the world, so remember them for special occasions throughout the year.

The fine print:  In the interest of transparency, I think it's important for you to know that I received the product described above in return for a review.  However, my opinions are honest and my own.