Wednesday, November 30, 2011

"Share the Love, Spread the Comfort" with BEARPAW...

The holiday season is upon us, and that means many of us are thinking of ways we can help those less fortunate than ourselves. Recognizing that the holidays this year will be a difficult time for many families, BEARPAW Footwear is kicking off their “Share the Love, Spread the Comfort” campaign. They will be choosing two nominated families every Friday until the end of December to receive a holiday gift basket including: BEARPAW boots for the entire family, 2 $250 gift cards and more.

Know a family who deserves to win?

Here is a link to all rules, guidelines, and information on how to enter - http://bearpawstyle.com/2011/11/spread-the-love-share-the-comfort-campaign/

BK Crown Kid's Meal Review and Giveaway...

"IMAGINATION IS KING™ at BURGER KING®. The new BK CROWNTM/MC Program, built to inspire every kid´s imagination and encourage kids to help choose how BK® gives back, brings families together to enjoy not just a meal but a mealtime experience.

The BK CROWNTM/MC Program comes in a fully interactive Kids Meal box. Sitting atop each box is a newly redesigned BURGER KING® crown, because every kid deserves to be treated like royalty at BURGER KING®! With crowns on their heads, kids can dive into the box, taking it apart, playing fun games and activities that challenge their minds, inspire their imagination and engage with the whole family.

With the BK CROWNTM/MC Program, Burger King Corporation invites kids to tell BURGER KING® what matters to them most. BKC has established a fund to help support the Wildlife Conservation Society, National Parks Conservation Association, DonorsChoose.org and Have It Your WayTM Foundation. By visiting BKCrown.com, kids learn how BKC´s charitable partners make a difference. Upon entering BK CROWNTM/MC Codes and clicking on their favorite cause, each kid´s vote helps BK® choose which charity to give back to.

The fun doesn´t end at the restaurant; the BK CROWNTM/MC Program experience lives on at http://www.bkcrown.com/ where kids can place their vote for how BKC should give back, as well as find more games, win prizes and enjoy interactive play.





Also at BURGER KING®, for just $9.99 your family can enjoy the "BKTM Family Bundle" which includes a WHOPPER® sandwich, WHOPPER JR.® sandwich., two small fries, two small soft drinks and a Kids Meal. Now that´s a deal worth getting together for! Limited time only. Price and participation vary. Prices higher in HI."

What we thought:  The kiddos really enjoyed the new BK Crown Kid's Meals!  The boxes are loaded with games and pop out characters and more fun stuff including the crown of course:)  And the food is still as good as always with healthy options like apple slices and milk, which makes everyone happy:)  Both of our kiddos picked the Wildlife Conservation Society for their charity to give back to...this is a really neat idea!  What a great way to teach our children about the importance of giving back and protecting our future. 

One lucky ABCD Diaries winner will receive the following prize pack thanks to BK and MyBlogSpark:
(1) $25 BURGER KING® Crown Card* to purchase a kids meal featuring the BK CROWNTM/MC Program.

Scala Wool Crusher Review + Coupon Code...


"Scala Pronto, is a very popular Dorfman Pacific brand. It is one that represents ageless fashion and quality at an affordable price. Style LW399 is a bestseller because its silhouette which is a cloche looks great on everyone and it is well-priced, too. It is available in many colors including these popular shades...black, camel, charcoal, plum, wine and red. These colors mix and match with Fall-Winter outerwear and wardrobes and work with many complexions.

This style is a soft wool knit (boiled wool) which is a great feature. It is not very structured and has a shirred appearance which is easy to wear. The complete Scala Collection is beautifully diversified, offering hats for every season and occasion--dress up, casual, sport for both men and women.

Through the month of December (starting 11/15), the brand will offer a special deal: 20% off and free ground shipping (US delivery only) on an amazing, comprehensive headwear website. Great for the Holidays, self and gift purchases, this offer should not be missed! Here are the details....

The promo code will be ScalaPronto. Site checkout description will read: Enjoy 20% Off + Free Ground Shipping (U.S. delivery only). Not valid w/other offers. Ends 12/31/11. Womens-Hats.com is the website."

What we thought:  This is a really fun hat that is super easy to wear with pretty much anything!  I love winter accessories that are easy to match with different outfits and other outerwear...fashionable and budget-friendly!  These great hats come in a variety of colors too!  The deal they are offering is really awesome and these would make great additions to your winter wardrobe or great gifts for friends and family!  ABCD Diaries gives the Scala Wool Crusher hat an A!


Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given a sample for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

The Orb Factory Glam Rock Purse Review and Giveaway...

2011 Holiday Gift Guide: Girls, 5+

The Orb Factory makes some really cute craft kits.  We were given the chance to review the GLAM ROCK Purse:

"Rock out with this GLAMorous purse by adding cool metallic jewels!"


What we thought:  A loved this purse!  She is super crafty so this kit was right up her alley.  It is kind of like a paint by numbers project, except you apply the sparkly jewels to the purse and the end result is a super GLAMorous handbag!  This was a really fun kit:)  TheOrb Factory has several cool and crafty kits to choose from and these would make really awesome gifts for the artsy kiddos on your list this year.  ABCD Diaries gives The Orb Factory an A+!
Buy It:  Find these fun kits at The Orb Factory!

Manhattan Toy Cali Candy Cane Review and Giveaway...

2011 Holiday Gift Guide:  Girls, 3-10


"Cali Candy Cane is as sweet as they come. Her velvet red dress and green and white striped stockings reveal her tasteful holiday personality. Her hair is full of candy cane colors with a mixture of light blonde and red highlights. Cali Candy Cane is as festive as they come, from her stocking cap to her cute green handbag."


What we thought: This doll was a huge hit with our in-house "All Things Girlie" reviewer, 5 year old A:)  She loves dolls and Cali Candy Cane was no exception.  She is cute and cuddly and perfect for the holidays!  Cali Candy Cane is really well-made and would be fun to play with year round.  She would make a great gift or stocking stuffer for the little girl on your gift giving list this holiday season.  ABCD Diaries gives Cali Candy Cane from Manhattan Toys an A+!


Buy It: Cali Candy Cane is available online at http://www.manhattantoy.com/ or a Specialty Store near you.

NoJo Bedding Review and Giveaway...

2011 Holiday Gift Guide: Infants and Babies-to-Be

"At NoJo, our goal is to deliver fashion-forward infant and toddler bedding, blankets, and accessories designed for today's lifestyle.

Our promise is "only the best for baby," which means we wrap quality, style, softness, and comfort into every product we make."


Ahoy Mate! Collection:
"Shiver me timbers with this pirate inspired infant bedding collection. Ahoy Mate! collection by NoJo includes fun monkeys, elephants, coconut trees, anchors, and sailboats in delightful colors of blues, browns, tans, greens, and white. Six piece set includes comforter, crib sheet, bumper, dust ruffle, diaper stacker, and window valance."

What we thought:  NoJo has some really gorgeous infant bedding sets!  We were given the Ahoy Mate! collection to review.  I love how inclusive this set was...it comes with all of the basics you need to create a cute, cuddly and cozy atmosphere for your little sailor:)  Everything matches perfectly and these sets are really affordable!  NoJo also makes extra coordinating accessories to stretch the theme even further throughout the nursery.  "Coordinating items include a crib sheet, window valance, musical mobile, wall hanging set, wall border, lamp & shade, appliquéd coral fleece blanket, and hamper."  Our NoJo set was really well-made and I know it will last a long time.  An infant bedding set from NoJo would make a great gift for a new baby or a baby that is on the way:)  ABCD Diaries give NoJo an A+!

Buy It:  Find NoJo bedding at Amazon, Target, Kmart, Wal-Mart, J C Penney, Toys R Us and more!
 

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Kushyfoot Review...


Check out some of this season's foot and leg wear from Kushyfoot:

Zebra Print Flats to Go 
"NEW Zebra print Flats-to-go ®! Soft, flexible faux leather Flats-to-go ® are an instant and elegant solution to a perennial need for the relief of sore heels, blisters and scrunched up toes. Featuring an elastic back for a better fit, and a unique, 3-dimensional wavy sole that cushions and massages the foot as the wearer walks-perfect for indoor and smooth outdoor surfaces. They slip neatly and easily into their owner's purse, folded into a cute clear plastic carrier with its own little handles."

Microfiber Tights
"Microfiber Tights, the first full length hosiery product in Kushyfoot. Wear them with boots or shoes, great for any occasion, with the massaging sole."

What we thought:  Kushyfoot products are fun for your feet!  The cute Zebra Flats-to-Go are fabulous and perfect for the holiday season.  These would be great to slip in your bag before those holiday parties so when your feet get tired of heels, you can get a little more comfortable with Kushyfoot.  The microfiber tights have been really nice now that the cooler weather is finally here.  They look and feel great...so great, in fact, its almost sad off at the end of the day!  Another great addition to the winter wardrobe:)  ABCD Diaries gives Kushyfoot an A+!


Buy It:  Find these awesome treats for your toes (and feet and legs:) at Kushyfoot!


Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Hershey's Holiday Collection Review and Giveaway...

2011 Holiday Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers

"A Kiss for Santa

Who needs mistletoe when there are Hershey’s Kisses Chocolates to go around? With more than 1.6 billion red, green and silver Hershey’s Kisses Milk Chocolates being made this year, there will be no shortage of holiday cheer! Hershey’s Kisses Brand Milk Chocolates varieties available this year include:

•NEW– Hershey’s Kisses Kiss Shaped Gift Box
•NEW – Hershey’s Kisses Brand Candy Cane Mint Candies Filled Cane
•Hershey’s Kisses Santa Hat Milk Chocolate
•Giant Hershey’s Kisses Brand Milk Chocolate
•Hershey’s Kisses Brand Milk Chocolates in festive foils and special flavors
The Perfect Gift to Give
Those looking for the ideal treat for a holiday host or hostess, co-worker, teacher or friend need look no further – Hershey’s iconic candies are decoratively wrapped and ready to gift! Gifting options include:

•NEW LOOK – Hershey®’s Pot of Gold® Premium Collection
•NEW – Reese’s Miniatures Tree Shaped Gift Box
•NEW– Hershey®’s Solid Milk Chocolate Bar (1 lb.)
•Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (1 lb.)

Timeless classics also are back with new festive wrapping, including Hershey®’s Miniatures Assortment, and a variety of decorative Hershey’s-filled candy canes, among other favorites.

Deck the Halls with Hershey’s
For those looking for sweet holiday décor, CelebratewithHersheys.com offers a variety of ideas and resources to help make the home festive and fun. Check out these simple holiday ideas:

•Get the kids involved: Prepare for a day of baking treats like Peanut Butter Blossoms made with Hershey’s Kisses Brand Milk Chocolates or Rolo® Pretzel Delights™ with the kids, and let them pick out the lucky recipients.

•Prepare for unexpected guests: Keep extra Hershey’s Pot of Gold Premium Collection boxed chocolates on hand for last minute gifting solutions.

•Get creative with ornaments: Spice up your holiday tree using cookie cutters and doilies as ornaments (which look like snowflakes) for an inspired look.

•Get out the gift wrap: Take the pictures that adorn the walls all year long and wrap them with holiday paper before re-hanging. Place bowls of favorite candy dish treats, wrapped in their holiday best, like Kit Kat® Holiday Miniatures or Hershey®’s Kisses® Brand Mint Truffles Wrapped in Dark Chocolate on end tables for a sweet touch.

Hershey’s holiday offerings can be found at retailers nationwide. For more information on products, as well as delicious recipes, festive crafts, holiday décor ideas, gift tags and cards, visit CelebratewithHersheys.com."

What we thought:  Hershey's chocolates are a staple in our house, especially around the holidays!  They have such a large variety of treats that can fit in everyone's budget.  Whether you need stocking stuffers, a gift for a teacher or neighbor or just something to fill your candy dish, Hershey's has you covered.  ABCD Diaries gives Hershey's holiday chocolate candies an A+!

Buy It:  You can find Hershey's holiday candies at gorcery stores, mass merchadisers and drug stores nationwide! 

TummyTickler Tots, TummyTickler and BellyWasher Review and Giveaway...

2011 Holiday Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers


"As a mom, it’s your job to help guide your child in making good choices. And when it comes to thirsty kids, it can be a tough task trying to compromise with your young one, in not-so-hushed tones, in the middle of the grocery store aisle. We get that. You’re looking for a nutritious beverage but your child is only interested in the latest character gadget. Guess what? We can give you both what you seek."

What we thought:  Our kids LOVE these!  The characters are fun and they are always adding new toppers to the bottles.  These drinks are a healthy option since its 100% juice.  So TummyTicklers and BellyWashers are a hit with not only the kiddos, but with me as well:)  And the bottles can be re-used which is good for the Earth!  A really loves taking these bottles in her lunch box...she likes showing off all of her new characters:)  These juices are great for toddlers and older kids and would make fun stocking stuffers this holiday season!  ABCD Diaries gives TummyTickler Tots, TummyTicklers and BellyWashers an A+!


Buy It:  You can find these great juice at Wal-Mart, Toys R Us and other stores nationwide!

Contigo Travel Mug Review...

2011 Holiday Gift Guide: Coffee/Tea Drinkers

"The Contigo® 20 oz. West Loop Vacuum Insulated Travel Mug with AUTOSEAL® technology keeps your favorite holiday drink hot for up to six hours. AUTOSEAL® self-sealing lid technology offers press-to-sip drinking and automatically seals between sips making it spill-proof and leak-proof – there are no lids to remove and no spouts to open. The West Loop is also top rack dishwasher safe. Throw some instant coffee packs or tea bags in the mug to make the perfect gift. MSRP $24.99"

What we thought:  This travel mug is awesome!  It has a sleek and stylish stainless steel finish which not only makes it pretty to look at, but super easy to clean.  The 20 oz size allows you to carry a large amount of coffee or tea or any other hot drink wherever you want to go.   The drink always stays warm longer than I expect which is nice, especially now that its starting to get cooler:)  It is easy to use with one hand and doesn't ever leak, even when knocked over!  This mug would make a great gift for the on-the-go coffee drinker in your life:)  ABCD Diaries gives the Contigo Travel Mug an A+!

Buy It: Find this awesome travel mug at mass merchandisers and department stores nationwide.  Check here for a store near you.

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Family Talk 2 and Lumps Review and Giveaway...

2011 Holiday Gift Guide: Family Games

"Forget carols, eggnog, dinner parties and cookie exchanges, when it comes to holiday entertaining the biggest trend this year is playing dice – elf style with lumps of coal. Not only will you be able to avoid taboo conversations about religion, politics and money with the family, you will all be able to bond over Lumps, a fast-paced dice game that challenges players to make risky decisions with every roll.



To play Lumps, you gather the pieces of coal (dice) in your hands, give them a lucky shake and let them fly. The goal is to score the most points in three rolls by rolling pairs. What makes Lumps exciting is that there are four different types of dice and only a few of them have high numbers on them. After your first roll, you have to decide which dice to keep and which dice to roll again.


If you need help starting a friendly dinnertime conversation you can use the game Family Talk 2. A portable deck of cards with questions like, “What was life like when you were a kid, mom, dad?”, Family Talk 2 inspires meaningful conversations that allow families to reconnect over the holidays."

What we thought:  We really enjoyed Lumps:)  This game really reminds us of one of our favorite dice games, but with a holiday spin.  Even the kiddos loved this game.  It is easy to learn and super fun.  Family Talk 2 is great as well.  These questions were sometimes funny and often thought-provoking, but always led to some really great family discussions.  We were amazed with how much we didn't know about one another!  This is a really great way to stimulate family conversation and would be great to take for long car rides this holiday season:)  ABCD Diaries gives Lumps and Family Talk 2 an A+!


Buy It:  Lumps, the Elf Coal game is available at Hallmark Gold Crown stores, Books-A-Million, Go! Games and 100s of specialty toy stores in the US.  Family Talk 2 can be found at Continuum Games.

Time Enough For Love Advent Calendar Review...

2011 Holiday Gift Guide: Advent Calendar


"Time Enough for Love Advent Calendars are beautifully designed creations which use decorative boxes that contain special gifts within festive display pieces to remind the recipient that someone loves them and is thinking of them throughout the month of December. Unlike the traditional advent calendar filled with chocolate, the Time Enough for Love Advent Calendars can be purchased filled with 24 high - quality, charming, age and gender appropriate gifts. For those who wish to personalize the contents themselves the calendars are also available empty. Time Enough for Love Advent Calendars are not just for children. The free standing, adult calendars are artfully made boxes decorated with an attractive wood burning fireplace motif. The two sizes of gift boxes are filled with carefully chosen useful and/or entertaining gifts. The daily gifts include items such as beautiful flower-shaped candles, a small book light, a brightly colored high quality potholder or even a hammer-shaped pen. The smaller Children’s Advent Calendar is full of quality age and gender specific toys and activities. When hung up by a reinforced tag at the top, this 30” tall gift calendar can be enjoyed by one child or shared by up to four children. Some of the gifts include a cuddly stuffed animal, a collectible small snow globe or an adorable wind-up toy. Time Enough for Love also offers a Family Advent Calendar, which uses the larger format boxes of the Adult calendar and contains a combination of amazing gifts. The family calendar gifts are to be opened on a rotating basis, which promotes sharing and taking turns."


What we thought: This advent calendar was the coolest we've seen.  We always do some kind of "Countdown 'til Christmas" and we try to get creative each year and not just give out candy.  These calendars have trinkets, toys and treasures that are sure to get your kiddos excited about the holidays!  We also use ours as an added incentive for good behavior and completing chores.  In my opinion, the greatest thing about this calendar is that it can be reused year after year!  Usually our calendars are disposable, but this one can be re-filled for years to come.  I know the kiddos are really going to enjoy this year's countdown with our Time Enough For Love Advent Calendar!  ABCD Diaries gives Time Enough For Love Advent Calendars an A+!

Buy It: Find these cool calendars at Time Enough For Love!


Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Friday, November 25, 2011

Scandle Candle Review and Giveaway...

2011 Holiday Gift Guide: Spouse/Significant Other



About Scandle Essentials Travel Candle:
"Experience the ultimate spa massage with the aromatherapy effects of our Scandle Essentials with pure essential oils. Scandle is in a square lightweight tin for easy application. Silicone band can be removed after use and used as an eco-wrist band reminder to "Reduce. Reuse. Recycle." Burn time 15-30 hours"
What we thought: I am a sucker for a good massage, but I'm not a huge fan of massage oils that leave a mess. The Scandle solves the problem of messy massage oil and provides the added element of heat to the massage.  Let me tell you, this massage candle works wonders on sore back and neck muscles!  The moisturizing wax rubs in easily without a mess and leaves behind soft skin, soothed muscles and a light shimmer.  They come in a variety of scents including some special holiday varieties and they smell wonderful!!  The travel Scandle is great for those holiday trips and is the perfect size for a stocking stuffer.  ABCD Diaries gives the Scandle an A+!

Buy It:  Find these wonderful gifts at Scandle!

Baconery Review and Giveaway...


2011 Holiday Gift Guide: Bacon Lovers

About Baconery:
"Bacon. Meat Extraordinare.
The excitement to our morning breakfast. The zest to our dull sandwiches. The spice to our salad.
Everything tastes better with bacon. Well, guess what? Bacon’s changing the game again. Now you can snack on bacon anytime. At the Baconery, bacon is our main ingredient.
You want bacon on it, You got it. Bacon has no limits!"

What we thought:  We had the opportunity to try the Baconery sampler.  It included a marshmallow bar, chocolate dipped pretzel rods, banana bread and 2 kinds of cookies.  We had a lot of fun sampling these bacon flavored treats.  What was most interesting to me was that the goodies weren't just bacon flavored, but had actual pieces of bacon on/in them.  Whether it was the big pieces of bacon in the cookies or bars or the tiny bacon crumbles on the pretty pretzel rods, the bacon was clearly visible.  I am a firm believer that bacon is the king of all meats and even though B teases me relentlessly about verging on vegetarianism, I know I could never give up bacon:)  I am super excited now that I know bacon can be added to baked goods and other traditionally sweet treats and actually taste good!  If you have a bacon lover on your gift list this holiday season (and really, who doesn't!)  check out Baconery for some really fantastic treats that are sure to bring a smile to their face!  ABCD Diaries gives Baconery an A!

Buy It:  Find delicious bacon treats at Baconery!

12 Days of Gifts Galore Hop: Lovable Labels Review and Giveaway...

Welcome to 12 Days of Gifts Galore Giveaway Hop hosted by Tales From the Nursery, Formula Mom, and Mama on a Green Misson. There's over $5,000 in prizes offered to help you get the gifts you need this holiday season. After you are done entering our giveaway you'll want to check out everyone else's AND enter for a chance to win one of three GRAND prizes sponsored by Kudzoom! Each blog you stop and enter at will be another entry!
gifts galore hop


Our sponsor for this giveaway hop is Lovable Labels!


"Looking for a unique and useful personalized gift idea? The Holly Jolly Gift Pack was designed with the essentials in mind. Wrapped in a pretty red foil package, the recipient will receive 15 Multi-Purpose Stickers, 40 Slimline Labels, 12 Shoe Labels, 24 Press N' Stick Clothing DOTS (6 Large, 6 Medium and 12 Small) and 2 Mini-Metal Tags. Everything you need to cover the basics and more!"

The winner of this giveaway chooses either the Christmas Jewels set or the Santa's Pick set.
Christmas Jewels

Santa's Pick

What we thought:  This pack of labels is great! It really covers a broad range with the variety of labels included.  We can name pretty much all of A's stuff!  These labels really come in handy with school supplies, backpacks, clothing(especially coats, hats, mittens, etc this winter!) and show and tell items.  The labels are easy to apply and really stay on which is super important.  There is a large variety of icons to choose from to fit any kids personality.  A is really loving labeling her things with her ladybug labels:)  ABCD Diaries gives Lovable Labels an A+!

Buy It:  Check out Lovable Labels for great deals on label packages!

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Primo Flavorstation Black Friday Discount...

In honor of the Black Friday shopping madness, customers who use the code 3483FBT will receive 15% off of their total online purchase! The code will be offered on their Facebook page.

This would be fun for holiday entertaining!

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

SumBody.com Review and Giveaway...

2011 Holiday Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers

We were given the opportunity to review several items from SumBody.com
Take a look a few below:
Headache Zapper:
"Skip the pills and zap that headache the natural way. Apply to temples and neck at the first sign of pain, gently inhale, and let pure, refreshing essential oils and herbs soothe your aching head and calm your mind."

Fizzer:
"Transform your skin (and mind) in ways you could never imagine. Honey is an incredible moisturizer and cure-all, as well as an overall tonic for skin of any condition, creating a soft, supple, youthful feel that lasts and lasts. Thank the honey bees for creating this extraordinary elixir... but praise sumbody for delivering it straight to your bath."

BonBons:
"This invigorating, minty BonBon will perk up your morning shower and your sleepy-head senses as sea salt exfoliates and shea and cocoa butters moisturize. Good Morning, indeed!"

PalmIt:
"No packaging! We love it! The more ways we can get rid of waste, the happier we are. Now you can have your lotion in the palm of your hands. Palm-Its are so easy, you may never go back to the bottle again. Made with rich butters for that deep-penetrating, ultra-rich, moisturizer. Just put it in the palm of your hand and rub it all over yourself (or sumbody else). Be careful- they`re addicting, and friends love to palm them!"

What we thought:  These products are fantastic!  I must give credit where credit is due.  The Headache Zapper is AWESOME!!  I have daily headaches and this roll-on works miracles on them:)  I use it at least once a day. It smells wonderful and within minutes my headache has significantly decreased if not gone away all together.  And no pain medication required!  Seriously, amazing!  The bath fizzer left the kiddos skin feeling super soft and moisturized and they really loved the feel of it in the tub.  The BonBons were great as well and smelled so good.  The PalmIt was actually pretty fun to use...I have never applied lotion that way!  It smelled fantastic and left my skin feeling super soft which is great during the cooler, windy months.  Overall, we we super impressed with every single product we reviewed from SumBody and will remain customers for a long time:)  So many of these would be great stocking stuffers this holiday season.  ABCD Diaries gives SumBody.com an A+!

Buy It: Find these fantastic body products at SumBody.com!

Peter Pauper Press Review and Giveaway...

"Make your Christmas sparkle with these holly, jolly cupcakes! Learn how to bake and decorate 4 different specially-designed cupcakes to make your holidays merry and bright! This Christmas Cupcake Kit includes: 24 festive cupcake liners, 24 Christmas cupcake toppers (4 designs of 6 each), 6 different pastry tips, connector, pastry bag, and 32-page mini-book packed with simple decorating instructions for each design, as well as cake and frosting recipes."



What we thought:  Does it get much better than cupcakes?  Especially during the season where you are most likely to give yourself the reprieve you need to partake in such indulgences:)  If you want the cutest cupcakes on the block, the cupcakes everybody will remember, check out this kit from Peter Pauper Press.  This kit comes with everything you'll need to make gorgeous Christmas themed cupcakes except the batter and the icing:)  The booklet contains lots of recipes for cake and frosting and decorating ideas.  Peter Pauper Press may be best known for their journals and stationery, but they also have some really neat gift ideas and box sets that would be great for the people on your holiday list:)  ABCD Diaries gives Peter Pauper Press an A+!
Buy It:  Find great gifts for everyone on your list at Peter Pauper Press!

PetCakes Review and Giveaway...

About PetCakes:
"Well Made™ Toy Manufacturing Corporation, introduces PetCakes™, a new collectible plush pet line that will be a sweet treat for children ages 3 & up. Each PetCakes animal features a "frosting" hat, comes nestled in its own cupcake wrapper and has its own whimsical backstory. At first look, children will see a delicious cupcake but will then be surprised by the pet they find snuggled inside! Combining sweet faces and cuddly plush with a clever cupcake theme, PetCakes are collectible and provide hours of open-ended imaginative play. PetCakes make perfect gifts for a special friend and for pet lovers. They are ideal for birthday party favors, stocking stuffers and as rewards for good grades. Most of all, PetCakes deliver the kind of fun kids eat up!"
What we thought:  These plushies are awesome!  They were a huge hit with 5 year old A and her friends.  She took HoneyCakes to school on Bear Day and got rave reviews from all the girls and even some of the boys:)  She has already asked if we can get PetCakes for her 2 best friends for Christmas presents!  That right there should tell you how awesome little girls think these cuties are:)  PetCakes would make great gifts this holiday season...they are absolutely adorable!  ABCD Diaries gives PetCakes an A+!

Gorton's Contest, Review and Giveaway...

This Gorton's sweepstakes ends December 2, 2011 and here’s a reminder of the prizes up for grabs:

- 1 Grand Prize Winner will receive a $5,000 VISA® gift card to spend Any Way You Want It…delivered just in time for the holidays!

- Two runner-up winners will win a $500 VISA® gift card each!

- In addition, Gorton’s will randomly select 800 lucky winners to win a custom Gorton’s dinner plate that will help you and your family remember to eat seafood twice a week.
What we thought:  We love Gorton's seafood products!  They are a tasty and convenient way to make sure my family gets the fish and other seafood that is so important for their diets.  Gorton's has a large variety of seafood to choose from which makes it easier to shake up our menu a little bit when it comes to serving fish.  ABCD Diaries gives Gorton's an A+!

Sleep Scentsations Review and Giveaway...

2011 Holiday Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers, Spa Gifts


What we thought: What a way to end the day!  Sleep Scentsations pillow liners are awesome!  You just pick a scent to fit the mood you are looking to create...relaxing, calming, romantic and more...peel the paper off the back of the liner, stick it to your pillow inside the pillowcase and get ready to breathe deeply and enjoy it:)  The best thing about these liners is that they last several days!  I've tried aromatherapy sprays before and you have to spray your linens frequently to get the pleasant smell to last.  With Sleep Scentsations liners you get the wonderful scents for 4 to 7 days per liner!  What a money saver!  Now that I'm using these liners I am in love with my pillow...and I'm not the only one.  It is now a common thing to have to hunt my pillow down at bedtime:)  These liners would make great gifts this holiday season.  You could buy a box and use them as stocking stuffers for the whole clan or spoil someone with a sampler:)  One lucky ducky reader is going to get completely pampered with the Aromatherapy Spa Sleep Collection!  ABCD Diaries gives Sleep Scentsations an A+! 

Buy It: Find these awesome pillow liners at Sleep Scentsations!

TSUKIHOSHI Children's Shoes Review...

2011 Holiday Gift Guide: Children of all ages

"TSUKIHOSHI's children's shoe technology is composed of 4 special features
designed for children's growing feet and to provide maximum comfort.
-Balanced Landing
-Arch Support
-Light and Flexible
-Barefoot Like Confort
Plus they are machine washable and have an antibacterial insole.
Children can put TSUKIHOSHI on easy and take TSUKIHOSHI off easy with the help of the wide and curved "Velcro Fastener"."
What we thought: These shoes are great!  D asks to wear them every day:)  He really loves them!  They fit him very well and they seem to be really comfortable.  I was a little wary about how lightweight they are, but they seem to be very very well-made and durable.  The selection of shoes at TSUKIHOSHI is pretty impressive with sizes to cover all ages from baby to older children and so many cute and cool styles that you will have a hard time just choosing one pair:)  These shoes would make great gifts for the kiddos in your life this holiday season.  ABCD Diaries gives TSUKIHOSHI shoes an A+!

Buy It:  Find TSUKIHOSHI children's shoes at Nordstrom.com!

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given a pair of shoes for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

DelGrosso Sauces Review and Giveaway...

2011 Holiday Entertaining Guide: Cooking

About DelGrosso:
"DelGrosso Foods is America’s oldest major family-owned producer of pasta sauce, building on its beginnings in 1914 and an old-world immigrant’s secret recipe. As America’s “First Family of Pasta Sauce,” the DelGrossos have more recently created a specialty line of all natural, ultra-premium pasta sauces called La Famiglia DelGrosso. Made with whole peeled imported Italian plum tomatoes, imported Italian olive oil, and the finest, freshest ingredients available, each recipe from the La Famiglia DelGrosso lineup was created by a different member of the DelGrosso family and is a celebration of a particular holiday or family occasion."

What we thought:  These sauces were yum-a-licious!  So tasty, I had to make up my own word:)  I can honestly say they were some of the best pasta sauces we've ever had from a jar!  We love to make our own sauce, but we always like to keep a few jars on hand for when time or ingredients prevent us from making it.  We use a lot of pasta sauce and we've tried pretty much every brand on the shelves.  So, I think we are pretty reliable sources when we brag about a sauce we've enjoyed:)  We tried the Vodka Celebration sauce, which is a creamy tomato sauce with a hint of vodka and all the right spices and wen t really well with chicken.  We also tried the Roasted Red Pepper Tour which was fantastic with spaghetti and meat sauce.  I don't even like red peppers and I LOVED this sauce!  Way to go DelGrosso!  These sauces would be wonderful to have on hand this holiday season...a definite time saver and so many varieties...there is something for everyone!  Plus, DelGrosso sauces come in gift packs, as well, which would make lovely gifts!  ABCD Diaries gives DelGrosso Sauces an A+!

Buy It:  Find delicious sauces at DelGrosso!

Monday, November 21, 2011

Uncle Milton Boba Fett Launch Lab Review...


2011 Holiday Gift Guide: Children, 3+
"Founded in 1946, Uncle Milton creates, develops, produces and markets toys which have outstanding play value and maximum kid-appeal. Its primary brands are focused in the science and nature categories and include Star Wars™ Science, Explore It!™, Back 2 Nature®, Ant Farm® and Tarantula Planet™. The Ant Farm™ brand ant habitat has grown to become a universally recognized icon of American pop culture. Building on the quality and innovation of its flagship brand, Uncle Milton introduced its STAR WARS™ Science brand that combines the unique appeal of the STAR WARS universe with developments in earth-based technology. Today, Uncle Milton leads the science and nature category with popular products that inspire wonder, learning and fun."
Boba Fett Launch Lab
"Launch Boba Fett sky-high and perform three different flight experiments. Just step on the launch pad and watch him fly. Does Boba Fett land in a different place when he has his jetpack on? Does the jetpack go higher if it's launched on its own? Experiment over and over to find out with the Boba Fett Launch Lab! Soars up to 50 feet! 3 Launch modes! Easy to use air pump."

What we thought: What a blast! No pun intended:)  Both A and D really enjoyed this toy.  They've played with toys like this before, but this one was different than the others, better actually:)  What made this launcher so unique (other than the cool Star Wars decor) was the neat experiments you could do with it.  The kids loved making up hypotheses on which way the launcher would go higher.  We really enjoyed building and un-building our Boba Fett launcher and experimenting over and over.  This is a really fun way to learn about rocket-building, trajectory and aerodynamics that I think all kids would enjoy:)  ABCD Diaries gives the Boba Fett Launch Lab from Uncle Milton an A+!

Buy It: Find this cool toy and lots of other cool learning toys at Uncle Milton!


Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given a copy of this book for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.