FREE Pampers Cruisers With Dry Max Today

With two little ones in diapers, I know how important it is to have a quality diaper that isn't going to leak. That being said, it's always nice to try before I buy when a new product comes out. Starting today, Pampers is offering a free sample pack to parents who request one at their website (http://www.pampers.com/). Why is Pampers being so generous? To celebrate the upcoming Olympics, Pampers has partnered with Team USA to introduce new Pampers Swaddlers and Cruisers Diapers with Dry Max.

From the press release:
Every baby is a champion in play, and to celebrate the upcoming Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games, Pampers® Diapers has partnered with Team USA to introduce new Pampers Swaddlers and Cruisers Diapers with Dry Max, the brand's new high performance diapers sure to earn gold with world-class "players" - babies.

The babies of Team USA athletes will be equipped with the new Pampers Cruisers Diapers with Dry Max as they head to Vancouver. In honor of these athletes and their families, Pampers has created specially-branded Team USA diapers with the Dry Max technology. Although these limited-edition Team USA diapers will not be for sale, parents all across the country can buy Pampers Swaddlers and Cruisers Diapers with Dry Max for their best players in the world in March. In the meantime, parents can request a free sample three-pack of the new Cruisers diaper on Pampers.com starting January 29th. If this sample includes a Team USA diaper (they will be randomly inserted in select sample packs), their baby will win a year's supply of Pampers Cruisers Diapers with Dry Max.

To bring to life the incredible passion, endurance and ability babies demonstrate daily in the sport of play, Pampers Diapers has directly teamed with two world-class athlete families who are among the first to receive the special-edition Team USA diapers: Olympic gold medal speedskater Chad Hedrick and his family, and skeleton (forward-facing luge) World Champion and Olympic Hopeful Noelle Pikus-Pace and her family. These athlete families will be sharing their Vancouver experiences from their babies' point of view throughout the Olympic Winter Games via photos and videos on Pampers.com.

"For many athletes, bringing home an Olympic medal is not just their dream, it's a shared dream of their entire family," said Jodi Allen, Vice President of North America Baby Care at Procter & Gamble including Pampers Diapers. "We are so proud to partner with these world-class athlete families, who are also parenting inspirations by training and succeeding while raising young, active children. We could not think of a more appropriate event than the Olympic Winter Games to celebrate babies as the world's greatest players and introduce our new high-performance gear - Pampers Swaddlers and Cruisers Diapers with Dry Max."

Babies' passion and dedication to play demonstrates that they are some of the best players in the world. Did you know that a cruising baby in one day can take as many steps as a marathon runner in a race, and a nine-month old baby can crawl up to 400 meters in 20 minutes? It's this active play that continually inspires the Pampers brand, and that's why moms and dads are encouraged to log on to Pampers.com beginning February 12 to join in celebrating the development of their own best players. Parents will have the ability to upload a video of their baby crawling from left to right, and randomly selected videos will be compiled into a Pampers Cruisers Diapers with Dry Max "Baby Relay" commercial which will air during closing day of the Olympic Winter Games, giving babies a chance to showcase their own playful ability in the same forum as the most elite athletes.

"Pampers is delighted to give all babies the chance to be awarded for their everyday medal-worthy performances," Allen said. "The technology incorporated into new Pampers Cruisers Diapers with Dry Max makes them 20 percent thinner than before and our driest diaper ever, providing game-changing improvements to babies in terms of performance and comfort, permitting them to be the best players they can be!"

So, head on over to the Pampers website to request your free sample of Pampers Cruisers. Supplies are limited! I haven't tried them yet, but will soon. I'll have a review and giveaway in the near future, so stay tuned.

Fine Print: I was not compensated for this post and did not receive a sample to review, however I will be reviewing the new Pampers and hosting a giveaway in the future.

Bucky The Buckle Toy (Kierbear Approved): WIN!

Kierbear would like to introduce you to his new friend. His name is Bucky and he is a Buckle Toy. You can see him peeking out from under the covers if you look closely. My baby boy likes for me to tuck them in together.

About Bucky the Buckle Toy
Bucky is a soft plush turtle that has four colored buckles down his tummy that unbuckle to reveal colored numbers 1-10. There are six colored shapes on his shell and down the middle of his shell is a zipper that unzips to reveal a pouch. This is a great educational toy because kids can learn their colors, shapes and numbers while still getting to play with the buckles they love. This is a great toy for traveling because it can fit in any diaper bag, attaches to almost anything, and is machine washable.

I love toys that are not only different and educational, but are multi-purpose. When my two little boys aren't cuddling with this turtle Buckle Toy, they are buckling and unbuckling his belts. I also love the zipper pouch. I can stick an emergency small car or truck toy in there for when we are out and about.

Bucky is not big or bulky so I can stick him in a diaper bag for travel and Kierbear can hold him in his stroller or carseat. When he's not trying to unzip him or buckle him, he likes to just hang out with him.

The Tampa, Florida couple behind the Buckle Toy, Seth and Jill Gomez, came up with the idea after a weekend in which their 1-year-old ignored his other toys and kept playing with the buckles on his stroller.

Jill states, "My name is Jill Gomez and I originally created this toy for my son Gavin. When he was about 12 months old he was fascinated with the buckles on his stroller and high chair. He would stand at his high chair or on his stroller for long periods of time just clipping the buckles together. While watching my son climb his high chair to solve the mystery of the buckle, I remembered wishing there was a toy with buckles that I could take in the diaper bag to keep him busy during the long car rides, plane rides, doctors visits, etc. I knew that if there was a toy out there, I would find it on the internet. So I searched and searched to come up with nothing. Something came over me and I thought I would make this toy for Gavin."

I think Bucky is a wonderful toy. He seems very well made, both of my toddlers love him and he is educational. Another thing I really like is the price. Right now, he is only $19.99. In my opinion, this would be a wonderful birthday gift for a toddler. What's better than a lovey that keeps on giving even when it's not naptime?

Buy: Bucky the Buckle Toy is on sale for $19.99 and can be purchased at http://www.buckletoy.com/. Also, check out Buckle Buddies, Buster and Bella, coming in April.

Win! Win! Win!

One Potamus Prefers reader will win a Bucky the Buckle Toy!

Update: Congrats to #39 karenmed409 who said, "following on twitter and tweeted". You have been emailed. Please claim within 72 hours of the email.

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

39

Timestamp: 2010-02-12 18:36:52 UTC

To enter, just head on over to http://www.buckletoy.com/ then come back and tell me a feature of this toy you like.

If you'd like extra entries (after the required entry is completed), please leave a comment on this post for each entry:

1. Subscribe to our feed by email for one extra entry (sidebar).
2. Follow Buckle Toy on Twitter @BuckleToy.
3. Become a Facebook fan of Buckle Toy for one extra entry.
4. Follow Potamus Prefers on Google Friend Connect for one extra entry.
5. Follow Potamus Prefers on Twitter and Tweet this post. You can do this once per day for one extra entry per tweet.
6. Add the Potamus Prefers button to your blog for one extra entry.
7. Add us to your blogroll for one extra entry.

This giveaway is open to the U.S. only and will end February 11, 2010 at 11:59 p.m. Central Time. Winner will be posted on this blog (in this post) and will be e-mailed (please be sure to leave an e-mail address if you aren't a blogger or if it isn't part of your profile). You will have 72 hours to reply.



Fine Print. We received a Bucky the Buckle Toy to review and the giveaway prize is also being provided by Buckle Toy. The opinions are our own.

Check Out Our Sidebar and Featured Blog

Good morning! Have you checked out my sidebar lately? There is lots of good stuff there. You can subscribe to our updates, check out wonderful companies and much more.

There are so many neat blogs out there that it is hard to find them all. You might have noticed that I have a "Featured Blog" area in my sidebar. I display buttons from blogs I come across that I enjoy and want to share. Right now, No Time For Flash Cards is featured. She has a wonderful blog full of fun activities for children.

I change it out every few days. Do you know a blog that should be featured? Let me know!

Enjoy Eat-In Chinese With La Choy Creations

Sometimes I'm so busy that it's dinner time before I realize it and I have no clue what to make. We are on a budget, so delivery or take out is usually out of the question. It's nice to have something on hand for a quick meal that doesn't make a huge mess, is easy to prepare and tasty.

Recently, I tried one of the new La Choy Creations meals. The one we tried is the Asian Fried Rice and I was impressed at how easy it was to prepare. All I had to add was boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This meal from La Choy combines rice with vegetables in a seasoned sauce. It all simmers together and, in 20 minutes, you have a tasty meal that is not only more affordable than take out or delivery, but doesn't have MSG like some meals do (complete nutrition information is on the website).

This meal was quite good and I loved that the vegetables were already included. I think next time I will add a spring roll and a fortune cookie to complete the meal. It made a lot (enough for hubby, me and my youngest son) and I was able to eat the leftovers the next day for lunch. I also love to add a little soy sauce to mine, but it's delicious (in my opinion) as is. The only one who wouldn't eat it was my 2 1/2 year old, but he doesn't care for veggies or rice. We are working hard to get him over his picky toddler phase.

Right now, they are also offering a $1 printable coupon for La Choy Creations. Head on over to http://www.lachoy.com/ to find out more about the new La Choy Creations.

Fine Print: I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of La Choy and received a sample to facilitate my candid review. Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Our Visit With Family and My Little Boys

I wonder if this is how each of my boys will remember their childhood?

I always remember mine in black and white.
This photo was taken at my sister's house.

Recently, we enjoyed a nice weekend spent visiting my parents, sister, her husband and friends. The boys had a fun time and were totally spoiled by their family and friends and loved experiencing different scenery.

My oldest son (he’ll be three in late April) really loves the farm my sister lives on. He wanted to spend the entire day outside today. It has been raining a lot over the last few days and he had cabin fever. He kept leading me around, showing me different things. He would eventually end up at the big area where the dogs were outside playing. He would stand at the fence for the longest time, just watching the dogs. I had to stand there too. If I walked away to the nearby carport to sit down, he would turn around quickly and walk the 30 or so steps (actually he almost ran) to get me. Once he fetched me, he would take me back and put me in my place. It’s funny because he struggles so much with his walking, but if he REALLY wants something, he can do really well. I think he over thinks it sometimes (as we all do in life).

He would also take his little Thomas and Percy trains that he hauls everywhere and line them up at the fence, facing the dogs so they could “watch” his furry friends as well. Once, I picked his dear trains up to put them away and he got frustrated and put them back, carefully arranging them, facing towards the fence.

At one point, I tried to take a nap while my family was awake to watch the boys, but my sweet son awoke from his nap and I was awakened with the ear piece of my eyeglasses poking me in the eye. He was trying to put my glasses on me while I slept. Once he got them on, he grabbed my finger and took me right back where I belonged… outside (and fully awake). At least he was thoughtful enough to get my glasses for me so I could fully enjoy the scenery. My youngest son was content watching football with daddy and rearranging his aunt’s house.

I sure will miss these days when they're all grown up.

Valentine's Day Gift Idea: Flirty Aprons!

When I cook, I make a huge mess. I can't tell you how many of my fine t-shirts have ugly grease splattered stains on them thanks to my culinary cleanliness. When I remember, I will put on one of my two free, blue, manly aprons to protect my clothes. They work but aren't very pretty.

Now I have a pretty apron that I LOVE from Flirty Aprons. Have you seen these? They are truly adorable and come in all sorts of designs and colors such as the Scalloped Sassy Red Flirty Apron pictured above (hint, hint, fellas... this would be the perfect Valentine's Day gift for your sweetie). They are also one size fits all.

Flirty Aprons was founded by two married couples: Joseph and Heather Hansen, and Spencer and Jamie Taylor. According to their website, when the owners initially met they discovered they each had a strong passion for business. They knew that their partnership would be enriched with a variety of skills that would allow them to create a successful and enjoyable business.

I received the Women's Original Blue Chocolate Flirty Apron to review. I love how well made it is and I am a fan of the vibrant colors and soft, double layered fabric. I feel pretty when I wear it to make the boys lunch, even if I forgot to brush my hair that morning. My husband even commented on how beautiful this apron is. They also have men's aprons and children's aprons.

Buy: Check out http://www.flirtyaprons.com/ to see all of their styles. Prices start at $24.95 and they ship same day.

GIVEAWAY!
 Win a Flirty Apron in your choice of style!

Update: Our winner is k who said, "I'm a flirty aprons facebook fan." Congrats! You have been emailed.




Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:
87
Timestamp: 2010-02-09 06:04:42 UTC

For the first required entry, please go to the Flirty Apron website then come back and tell me which apron you'd choose if you win.

If you'd like extra entries (after the required entry is completed), please leave a comment on this post for each entry:

1. Blog about this contest with a link back to Flirty Aprons and Potamus Prefers for five extra entries. The post should be at least 100 words and be an actual blog post, not just a short sentence. Thanks!
2. Subscribe to our feed by email for one extra entry (right sidebar).
3. Follow Flirty Aprons on Twitter @Flirty_Aprons for one extra entry per day.
4. Become a fan of Flirty Aprons on Facebook for one extra entry.
5. Follow Potamus Prefers through Google Friend Connect for one extra entry.
6. Follow @PotamusPrefers on Twitter and tweet about this contest for one extra entry per day.
7. Become a fan of Potamus Prefers on Facebook for one extra entry.
8. Add Potamus Prefers to your blogroll or add our button to your site for one extra entry.

This giveaway is open to worldwide residents and will end Feb. 8, 2010 at 11:59 p.m. Central Time. The winner will be posted on this blog (in this post) and will be e-mailed (please be sure to leave an e-mail address if you aren't a blogger or if it isn't part of your profile and check your spam). You will have 72 hours to claim your prize.



Fine Print: I received a Flirty Apron to review. The giveaway prize is also being provided by Flirty Aprons. The opinions are my own and based only on my experience.

Yoplait Frozen Smoothies and Blender Giveaway

When I worked outside of the home, I always ate breakfast to energize myself for the day. When I became a stay at home mom to two active toddlers, I seldom remembered to eat a balanced breakfast until recently.

I was sent a coupon to try one of the new Yoplait Smoothies. I was also sent a nifty Hamilton Beach Single-Serve Blender to whip up the smoothies in. I love smoothies and used to indulge in one occasionally at the local smoothie place. I was excited to find out that there is a quick and easy way to enjoy a smoothie at home, without peeling and cutting up the fruit myself. My boys love fruit and eat lots of fresh strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and bananas. They love these smoothies as well.

Information I received from MyBlogSpark:
Did you know seven out of 10 Americans do not consume the daily recommended amount of fruit? Every Yoplait Smoothie contains a full serving of fruit as well as real Yoplait yogurt pieces with live & active cultures. Yoplait Smoothies are a good source of calcium when prepared with milk according to directions, and an excellent source of antioxidant vitamin C.

Simply add milk to a Yoplait freezer package, blend, and in less than two minutes you can enjoy a nutritious and delicious smoothie guilt free! At 110 calories per serving, Yoplait Frozen Smoothies make creating the at-home smoothie convenient, simple and worry free.

Sounds easy, but can it be tasty? Well, I tested them out for myself and here is the video review to show you my thoughts:

Since that video was shot earlier this week, I have stocked up! These smoothies come in the following flavors (and I like them all): Strawberry Banana, Strawberry Mango Pineapple and Triple Berry. I truly crave these and they are so easy for mornings when I am taking my son to his occupational therapy sessions. Would you like to try Yoplait Smoothies? Right now, you can print a $1.25 off coupon for Yoplait Frozen Smoothies.

Win: Update: We have our winner! Congratulations to #209 Danielle who tweeted for her extra entry. You have been emailed!

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

209

Timestamp: 2010-02-08 19:06:37 UTC

One Potamus Prefers reader will win a Yoplait Frozen Smoothie Gift Pack. The gift pack includes a Hamilton Beach Single-Serve Blender to make the fruit smoothies in (the blender is also awesome for frozen coffee drinks, like the ones I made earlier this week, shakes and much more). To enter, just answer the following question in the comments section below (be sure to include your email): What is your favorite fruit smoothie to make at home or what flavor looks the best to you?

If you'd like extra entries (after the required entry is completed), please leave a comment on this post for each entry:

1. Subscribe to our feed by email for one extra entry (sidebar).
2. Tell me who else (besides me) tasted the smoothie in my video for one extra entry.
3. Tell me another Yoplait item your family enjoys or would like to try for one extra entry.
4. Follow Potamus Prefers on Blogger for one extra entry.
5. Follow Potamus Prefers on Twitter and Tweet this post. You can do this once per day for one extra entry per tweet.
6. Add the Potamus Prefers button to your blog for one extra entry.
7. Add us to your blogroll for one extra entry.

This giveaway is open to the U.S. only and will end February 7, 2010 at 11:59 p.m. Central Time. Winner will be posted on this blog (in this post) and will be e-mailed (please be sure to leave an e-mail address if you aren't a blogger or if it isn't part of your profile). You will have 72 hours to reply.

Yoplait provided me with the free product, information, and prize pack through MyBlogSpark™.

Jennie Garth and I Chatted About Veggies

It's hard to get kids to eat vegetables. I bet you're saying, "Duh, Shannon, I KNEW that bit of info."

It's even harder not to act like a giddy child when you talk to someone you were a big fan of growing up. Earlier this week I talked to Jennie Garth (of 90210 fame). Yes, we're BFF and chat all the time. Kidding! In actuality, I was invited to take part in a conference call with her. She was super sweet and answered everyone's questions about her latest project and getting children to eat vegetables, including mine.

Why was I chatting with Jennie Garth? She is promoting her new web series called Garden Party.

From the press release:
The new original web series "Garden Party," hosted by celebrity mom Jennie Garth, ("Beverly Hills, 90210," "What I Like About You"), will premiere Tuesday, January 19 on iVillage (www.iVillage.com/gardenparty). The digital lifestyle series, from NBC Universal Digital Studio and the makers of Hidden Valley® Ranch dressing, serves to help families incorporate vegetables into their diets.

"I saw this series as an opportunity to help inspire, educate and motivate families like mine," said Garth. "I found out that incorporating vegetables into your families' life is not only healthy but can be fun too."

Garden Party celebrates a new vegetable each month. Host, Jennie Garth, meets with farmers, chefs, moms and kids to find new and exciting ways to get families to love their veggies. From planting cucumbers at home, to visiting a kid’s cooking school, to taking a tour of a family farm, Jennie infuses her personality and experience as a mom into the series to make the information come alive. Jennie shares her own experience and tips with rich interactive elements including a "Cook and Tell" cookbook, a "What's For Dinner" meal planner and an opportunity for moms to tell their veggie stories.

Here is the trailer:

I have watched all of the episodes of Garden Party so far and I have learned a lot. They are well produced and easy to watch with simple, easy to follow tips. The website also has sections with recipes and other tips.

This month's veggie is broccoli and the first episode tells us a bit about these "little trees".

I learned a lot from the conference call. When it was my turn to talk to Jennie, I asked her about tips and tricks for getting toddlers to eat their vegetables. I told her how I pile veggies on pizza (one of my oldest son's favorite foods). She mentioned hiding spinach and other veggies in meatloaf and spaghetti to the caller before me. Jennie also told me that she prepares one balanced meal for her family now with the knowledge that they'll eat when they're hungry. She also emphasized how dip (such as Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing) can help moms get their kids to eat veggies.

The web series and Garden Party website can be found at www.ivillage.com/gardenparty. Right now, there is also a coupon for Hidden Valley Ranch Salad Dressing you can print off.

Fine Print: I did not receive any compensation or product for this post. I was invited to the conference call and wanted to share this information with my readers. 

Yummified Frozen Caramel Coffee Drinks

Look what I made tonight... Two frozen caramel coffee drinks. I used a Coffee People Donut Shop K-Cup for the coffee base. The Keurig really came in handy to make a small amount of coffee for the drink. I made it pretty much like a regular cup of coffee with milk and sugar but added ice and caramel syrup then blended it up and added whipped topping. I bet it would be just as good hot or with ice cubes (instead of blending it up).

There are a ton of recipes online for coffee drinks and most are similar. You can pick and choose ingredients that sound good to you and have fun experimenting. I think I'll try chocolate syrup next time and I'm also going to experiment with different flavors of coffee for the base.

Hana Helps Haiti Or Your Charity

Have you been planning to make a purchase since you read my Hana Professional Flat Iron review awhile back? Maybe a pink flat iron is on your sweetie's Valentine list? Now is the perfect time. Just by purchasing something you already want, you can help those in Haiti or another charity of your choice.

I was contacted by Misikko to let me know that for every Hana flat iron that is purchased between now and Feb. 3, 2010, Steve Voudouris (CEO of Hana Salon) will send a $25 blank check to the customer. He will also include a stamped envelope for the customer to send a donation to the charity of their choice.  Click the the letter below to go to the website for more information and to make your purchase.

MySavings.com: Free Samples, Grocery Coupons

Who doesn't like free samples? When shopping at the grocery store, I love it when they hand samples out. That way, I can try a new soap, beverage or recipe before I spend money. If I find a coupon in a magazine to try out a new product, I clip it immediately. It's always great to try before you buy, in my opinion.

So, I was excited to learn about MySavings.com. It's a neat site that features free samples, coupons, surveys, sweeps and even a forum. I signed up and have already printed several grocery coupons. I also checked out their forum and it's active and well laid out. The forum has sections for instant win games, surveys and more. This site is in my bookmarks now.

I know many of my readers love free stuff, coupons and giveaways (I can tell by the many entries I get in my giveaway posts). Check MySavings.com out and let me know what you think!

This is a sponsored post. The opinions and personal experiences are my own. Click here to read my disclosure policy.

Waterpik EasySelect Showerhead 48Hr Giveaway

I enjoy a nice long soak in a bubble bath as much as the next girl, but when I want to get clean or make sure two grubby, dirt covered, spaghetti sauce coated toddlers get 100% clean, I turn to a good shower.

Before I had kids, I never really paid much attention to showerheads. If water came out in a decent amount with a good spray, I was happy. Now that I have kids, I appreciate a nice hand-held showerhead that I can stretch out and get down on the boys' level with. I also appreciate the different spray modes to massage the tight muscles I have in my shoulders and neck from carrying around heavy children. Recently, I was introduced to the Waterpik EasySelect™ 5 Mode Handheld Showerhead.

Key Features:

• 5" Round Shower Head
• Advanced OptiFLOW Technology
• Easy Clean Nozzles
• Removable Flow Regulator
• Limited Lifetime Warranty

 Spray Modes:

• High/Low Concentrated Center Spray 
• Circular Massage
• Power Spray / Pulsating Massage
• Misting
• Water Saver

My thoughts
When we took the Waterpik out of the package, it looked and felt sturdy. The brushed nickel is attractive as well. Hubby installed it and had no problems doing so. I have to say I love that it has five different settings. The pulsating massage feels wonderful on sore muscles. I also love the water saver mode for when I'm lathering up the boys. The misting mode is a wonderful feature, in my opinion. I like to use that mode at the end of my shower with cool water. It makes me feel refreshed. I also think it's easy to pull out of the holster and replace when I'm done. My favorite feature is how easy it is to click from one mode to another. The EasySelect is a winner in my book.

Buy: For more information on this Waterpik showerhead and other products, go to http://www.waterpik.com/. The Waterpik EasySelect™ 5 Mode Showerhead retails for $59.99 and is available at Home Depot.

TWO DAY GIVEAWAY! *CLOSED*
First winner did not claim. A new winner has been drawn and emailed. The name will be posted here once they claim.
 

Win a Waterpik EasySelect™ 5 Mode Showerhead 

For the first required entry, please go to the Waterpik website then come back and tell me another item you'd like to own.

If you'd like extra entries (after the required entry is completed), please leave a comment on this post for each entry:

1. Blog about this contest with a link back to Waterpik and Potamus Prefers for five extra entries. The post should be at least 100 words and be an actual blog post, not just a short sentence. Thanks!
2. Subscribe to our feed by email for one extra entry (right sidebar).
3. Follow Waterpik on Twitter @waterpik for one extra entry per day.
4. Become a fan of Waterpik on Facebook for one extra entry.
5. Follow Potamus Prefers through Google Friend Connect for one extra entry.
6. Follow @PotamusPrefers on Twitter and tweet about this contest for one extra entry per day.
7. Tell me what you like best about the showerhead I reviewed.
8. Add Potamus Prefers to your blogroll or add our button to your site for one extra entry.

This giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. and will end Friday, January 22, 2010 at 4:30 p.m. Central Time. The winner will be posted on this blog (in this post) and will be e-mailed (please be sure to leave an e-mail address if you aren't a blogger or if it isn't part of your profile). For this two day giveaway, you will have 24 hours to reply.



Fine Print: I received the Waterpik EasySelect Showerhead to review. The giveaway prize is also being provided by Waterpik. The opinions are my own and based only on my experience. Your results may differ. Please do your research to see if this product is right for you.

M2 Skin Refinish and SkinCareRx.com Giveaway

I am quite fair complected and have always had sensitive skin. Growing up, I didn't have a lot of issues with acne or breakouts, but if I did get one big pimple, it showed like a sore thumb. I am also very prone to scarring. When I had my second son, I got melasma (brown patches) on my cheeks that never fully went away or faded.

Recently, I was given the opportunity to try out the M2 Skin Refinish 12%. I received the M2 Sensitive Skin Bundle that includes the M2 Exfoliating Cleanser, M2 Skin Refinish 12% and the M2 Skin Recovery Moisturizer.

From the company:

M2 Skin Refinish 12% was created by leading dermatologist, Dr. Mark Taylor, and formulated with a rejuvenating formula of concentrated Mandelic and Malic Acids. Together, these two specialty ingredients work to provide powerful antioxidant protection and refreshment. Great for those with acne-prone, aging, or hyperpigmented skin, it’s the perfect path for the softest, smoothest skin around.

Picture yourself with clear, flawless skin. Even if you find that your skin cannot tolerate strong or exfoliating skin care ingredients, M2 Skin Technologies recently released the Skin Refinish 12% formulation that is specifically targeted for those with sensitive and rosacea-prone skin. When used in conjunction with the Exfoliating Cleanser and Skin Recovery Moisturizer, it completely renews the skin without being harsh.

My thoughts
The first thing I noticed when I opened the containers was that there is no strong or offensive smell. Things that smell perfumey usually make my facial skin itch, so I was happy about that. I also love that you don't have to use much at all so it lasts a long time. When I first tried the M2 Exfoliating Cleanser, I immediately noticed how clean, soft and fresh my skin felt. I only needed a dime sized amount. I left it on for the suggested 30 seconds before rinsing. In the evenings, I follow the cleansing with M2 Skin Refinish 12%. I leave it on 15 minutes then apply the M2 Skin Recovery Moisturizer (I apply this twice a day). I love how soft and non-greasy my skin feels with these products. In my opinion, my skin tone looks much more even and it feels very smooth. I am definitely pleased with these products. I haven't had any sensitivity at all. Please note that these are my experiences only and I make no claims about how it will work for anyone else. I am, however, quite pleased.

Buy: The M2 Skin Care products are available at SkinCareRx.com by clicking here. The items can be bought separately or as a bundle (to save money).

Want to try it out?
Win a M2 Sensitive Skin Collection Bundle ($101.50 Value)!

Update: Our winner is #242 cj who said, "I learned that Malic acid is a natural humectant keeping skin hydrated throughout the day." You have been emailed. Thanks for playing everyone.

Random Integer Generator 

Here are your random numbers:

242

Timestamp: 2010-02-08 19:13:33 UTC

For the first required entry, please go to the SkinCareRx.com website then come back and tell me one thing about the M2 Skin Care products that you learned.

If you'd like extra entries (after the required entry is completed), please leave a comment on this post for each entry:

1. Blog about this contest with a link back to SkinCareRx and Potamus Prefers for five extra entries. The post should be at least 100 words and be an actual blog post, not just a short sentence. Thanks!
2. Subscribe to our feed by email for one extra entry (right sidebar).
3. Follow SkinCareRx.com on Twitter @skincarerx1 for one extra entry per day.
4. Become a fan of SkinCareRx.com on Facebook for one extra entry.
5. Follow Potamus Prefers through Google Friend Connect for one extra entry.
6. Follow @PotamusPrefers on Twitter and tweet about this contest for one extra entry per day.
7. Tell me another item you like from their website.
8. Add Potamus Prefers to your blogroll or add our button to your site for one extra entry.

This giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada and will end February 3, 2010 at 11:59 p.m. Central Time. The winner will be posted on this blog (in this post) and will be e-mailed (please be sure to leave an e-mail address if you aren't a blogger or if it isn't part of your profile). You will have 72 hours to reply.

Fine Print: I received the M2 Sensitive Skin Collection Bundle from SkinCareRx.com to review. The giveaway prize is also being provided by SkinCareRx.com. The opinions are my own and based only on my experience. Your results may differ. Please do your research to see if this product is right for you.

Finding The Best Shopping Deals Is Fun

As I sit here in the kitchen while the boys are napping, a smile appears on my lips as I think of how much fun they had this morning playing with their Christmas gifts. My oldest son created beautiful chalk art on his easel then hauled a few loads of cargo on his trains. He loves playing at that train table.

When gift shopping for the boys, I always try to find the best shopping deals while making sure I buy something the boys will truly love and enjoy. This year, my first born son wanted Thomas the Tank trains as well as art supplies. I have mentioned many times on this blog how much he loves his trains. Have I mentioned that he loves coloring and drawing as well? He is getting so good at holding the crayon, chalk, marker, etc. just right.

My youngest son loves balls and DVDs. He loves wiggling his little self around the living room, dancing so sweetly to the theme songs of his favorite children's shows. He got both for Christmas. I scour online deal sites, clip coupons, peruse Ebay and read blog review posts to compare shopping prices. I am always excited when I save a lot of money while shopping.

Now that the holidays are behind us, it's back to the honey do list. We have a few items that may need replacing soon. We have been window shopping, so to speak, and have been looking at the newest designs of refrigerators out there. I was excited to find out that there are so many new options since we last shopped for appliances.

How do you find the best shopping deals?

This is sponsored. The opinions and personal experiences are my own. Click here to read my disclosure policy.

Nuka Maternity Giveaway: Fresh and Edgy

When I found out I was pregnant with my boys, each time I was excited to "show" enough to wear maternity clothes. Then reality set in. I couldn't find anything I liked in my size or it was just not my style... too drab and tentlike. No more!

I'm not pregnant, but if I was, I'd be excited to shop because I've found out that there are fresh and edgy maternity clothes out there, like those from Nuka Maternity. Another thing I love is that these clothes are trendy and awesome even if you aren't expecting. Case in point... The Nuka Lola Dress that I am wearing in the photo at right. The fabric is luxuriously soft and the colors are rich and beautiful. It's very comfortable. I wore it on New Year's Eve and got many compliments. No one could tell it was a maternity dress (I wore it with jeans, so it's versatile too). It is nice and stretchy and I can tell it would be comfortable when pregnant. It looked just as good after being laundered and kept the shape and vibrant colors it had before the wash cycle.

About Nuka Maternity (from the company):
Hailed for their luxurious, super-soft fabrics, singular color palette, and modern silhouettes, Nuka Maternity embodies California Chic - easy, comfortable and wearable. Founded in 2007 by renowned graphic artist and fashion designer, Julia Noik, Nuka Maternity focuses on elegant, vintage-inspired garments that exude a certain sexiness while maintaining casual sophistication.

Nuka Maternity V-Neck Hoodie (in Olive)

Julia was inspired to create a maternity line while pregnant with her second daughter. The idea to produce contemporary maternity wear that looks divine and feels superb fueled her desire to transform her inspired idea from concept to reality. Nuka Maternity delivers a fresh approach to maternity wear using hand-dyed techniques and distinctive mineral washes to guarantee that no two garments are the same. With their fashionable, flattering, trendy cuts that can easily be worn after your baby is born, Nuka is designed for every mom-to-be who wants to look hip and elegant while they revel in their special nine months.

Nuka Maternity Pullover Hoodie (in Charcoal)

Nuka tops, pants, dresses, and leggings are the ideal choice for the hip, hot mamma-to-be and beyond. Sacrificing comfort for style is so yesterday, embrace the here and now with the cozy, instant casual classics of Nuka Maternity - blossoming love for your baby, body, and mind.

Nuka Maternity Shirred Sleeve Hoodie (in Charcoal and Caviar)

I love that the signature fabrics include very soft organic cotton, bamboo, spandex and cotton/modal blends that are mostly hand treated with low impact dyes. According to the designer, creative dye techniques and washes are used with artful colors and combinations to give each piece a unique look and feel. Julia says, "Nuka Maternity celebrates Californian casual elegance and balances it with the irresistible qualities of love and nature. All our garments are produced and hand dyed locally in California."

Who wouldn't love a maternity wardrobe that you don't have to ditch once the baby is born? I am also loving the Coco Dress in Chocolate... Check it out.

Buy: Check out the entire line (Julia said that they are getting a lot of new pieces in March for their spring line, so stay tuned) at http://www.nuka-la.com/. The pieces are available for purchase through their online store. Nuka Maternity is also available at many boutiques. Click here to find a boutique near you.

Guess what? Nuka Maternity has VERY GENEROUSLY offered to give one Potamus Prefers reader their choice of any THREE in-stock items from their online store (valued at up to over $300).

Update: We have our winner. Congratulations to Annie1 who said, "Nuka Maternity, an accidental creation by Julia Noik, was launched in Los Angeles in March 2007 and having a background as a graphic artist is a wonderful thing when it comes to deigning maternity wear!!". You have been emailed.



Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:
47
Timestamp: 2010-02-03 13:46:55 UTC

You will be the best dressed mom out there with your new Nuka Maternity clothes!

For the first required entry, please go to Nuka Maternity's website and choose what you'd like to win. Then come back and tell me what you chose, why you like it and where you'd like to wear it.

If you'd like extra entries (after the required entry is completed), please leave a comment on this post for each entry:

1. Blog about this contest with a link back to Nuka Maternity and Potamus Prefers for five extra entries. The post should be at least 100 words and be an actual blog post, not just a short sentence. Thanks!
2. Subscribe to our feed by email for one extra entry (right sidebar).
3. Follow Nuka Maternity on Twitter @NukaMaternity for one extra entry per day.
4. Become a fan of Nuka Maternity on Facebook for one extra entry.
5. Follow Potamus Prefers through Google Friend Connect for one extra entry.
6. Follow @PotamusPrefers on Twitter and tweet about this contest for one extra entry per day using this tweet: "Looking for fresh, edgy and awesome maternity clothes? Check out the review and giveaway of @NukaMaternity at http://tinyurl.com/yct26l7". Leave the link to your tweet in the comments section below.
7. Tell me something you learned on the Nuka Maternity website for one extra entry.
8. Add Potamus Prefers to your blogroll or add our button to your site for one extra entry.

This giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada and will end February 2, 2010 at 11:59 p.m. Central Time. The winner will be posted on this blog (in this post) and will be e-mailed (please be sure to leave an e-mail address if you aren't a blogger or if it isn't part of your profile). You will have 72 hours to reply.



Fine Print: I received the Lola Dress/Tunic from Nuka Maternity to review. The giveaway prize is also being provided by Nuka Maternity. The opinions are my own.

Eleven Collection Shoes Review and Giveaway

The presents are opened, the toys are being played with and all of the cute outfits that your little one got for Christmas are ready to be worn. You didn't forget something did you? Shoes! All of those cute outfits need the perfect pair (or two) of shoes.

Last year, we were sent our first pair of Eleven Collection Shoes to test out. If you read that Eleven shoes review and watch the video, you will see how cute the Kai style is we received. I wanted to do a follow-up to that review and tell you how they have held up. We received those shoes in March of last year and my oldest son grew into them quickly. He has worn them many times (you might recognize them from several photos on my blog). They have held up very well and are still like brand new.

You can catch a glimpse of them in this photo from the Mama Tuck, Mama Tuck post from late last year:

Last month, we received a pair of the Caper style Eleven shoes. When I opened the box, I noticed how cute they were and immediately tried them on Finley over his orthotics. They fit... Success!

You can see Finley in his new shoes in this post. The photo at the top of this review was taken on Christmas day and the one, at left, was taken today. He loves sporting these adorable, versatile shoes. As you can see, they are great for dress up or everyday play. I am glad that they have the faux laces (I guess that's what you call them... they don't tie) with a velcro strap. These shoes are super simple to get on his feet and stay on. We got them in a larger size so they will fit over his orthotics.

If you are already a fan of See Kai Run, you should definitely check out Eleven (their sister company). They have the same awesome quality and trendy styles in larger sizes. They are available is sizes 9-3 and are perfect for older toddlers through children around the age of eight. You can find out all about the shoes at their website at http://www.elevencollection.com/.

Buy: Right now, they are having their Winter Boot Sale and they are also offering free shipping when you purchase two or more pairs of shoes. Pssst... I noticed that the adorable Kai style is on sale for $30 right now. This style is regularly $54. Hurry though, looks like sizes are limited. Click here to check it out. The Caper style featured in this post are available for $50 here.

WIN WIN WIN!

Update: We have our winner. Congrats to daer0n who said, "I follow you on twitter and tweeted." You have been emailed and have 72 hours to claim.

Random Integer GeneratorWIN a pair of Eleven Collection Shoes in their choice of style and size. For the first required entry, please go to the Eleven website then come back here and tell us what style you would choose.

Here are your random numbers:
280
Timestamp: 2010-02-01 19:38:33 UTC

One lucky Potamus Prefers readers will

For extra entries (first required entry must be completed first):

1. Follow Eleven Collection on Twitter @ElevenShoes for one extra entry.
2. Become an Eleven Collection Shoes Facebook Fan for one extra entry.
3. Follow Potamus Prefers through Google Friend Connect (sidebar) for one extra entry.
4. Follow Potamus Prefers on Twitter and Tweet this post. You can do this once daily. Come back here and leave the link to your tweet.
5. Add Potamus Prefers to your blogroll or grab our button for one extra entry.
6. Subscribe to our feed by email (sidebar) for one extra entry.
7. Join Eleven Collection's mailing list for one extra entry.

Please leave a comment on this post for each entry. This giveaway will end January 31, 2010 at 11:59 p.m. Central Time and is open to residents in the United States and Canada. Winner will be posted in this post and will be e-mailed (please be sure to leave an e-mail address if you aren't a blogger or if it isn't part of your profile). This giveaway is open to bloggers and non-bloggers.

Fine Print: I received a pair of Eleven Collection Shoes to review. The opinions my own and your experience may be different than mine. Please do your research to see if this item is right for you or your family. The shoes for the giveaway are also being provided by Eleven Collection.