It's Never to Early to Shop for Mom

Mother's Day may still be a few months away, but let's be honest it's never to early to start thinking about what we are going to get our mommas to show them just how special they are to us! Be sure to keep checking back as I'll be sharing lots of great gifting ideas in the coming weeks!

Happy Galentine’s Day

What's the #1 way to a girls heart on Valentine's Day? Chocolate of course. And what better way to give her that well deserved treat than with chocolate that's worry-free for everyone!

Enjoy Life Foods Valentine’s Day Chocolate Minis are packaged for the season of love. Each bag comes with 18 individually wrapped allergy friendly, dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free chocolate minis that everyone can enjoy worry-free. The perfect way to treat a special loved one, your friends, or even yourself. They also make great classroom exchange treats too!

Available in four delicious flavors including: Dark Chocolate, Ricemilk Chocolate, Ricemilk Crunch Chocolate and a Variety Pack.

One of my favorite brands, Thirty-One has some really awesome gifts that would be perfect too. With their Statement Canvas and Wall Art line that's customizable you can create a gift from the heart for your loved one. If you ask me nothing says "I Love You" like a gift that's created especially for me. It really speaks volumes when a loved one goes the extra mile to make a gift special by personalizing it.

With Thirty-One you can start with stock graphics and then add a little something extra to make it uniquely yours. Plus their online ordering system allows you "see" your creation before you even order so you know exactly what you're going to get.

Spread the love this Valentine’s (or Galentine’s!) Day with Melitta Coffee. For the coffee lover in your life, Melitta has a number of chic, affordable (all under $40) items that make for a thoughtful, unique Valentine’s gift (and a great cup of coffee)!

For your self-proclaimed entertainer bestie: The ultimate brunch accessory or nightcap appliance, the new Heritage Series Pour-Over Coffeemaker Sets completes any host’s offerings. The vintage inspired sets include a 20oz carafe and Pour-Over cone, making multiple cups at a time and available in a variety of pastel colors. $39.99.

For your globetrotting partner: Compromising great coffee for an adventure is a thing of the past. This durable, shatter-resistant Pour-Over is great for the coffee lover on the go. Made out of Tritan™ material, this design allows for gourmet coffee in just minutes, whether from a hotel room or the top of a mountain. $14.99

For your coffee gourmand s/o: Coffeehouse quality coffee IS possible at-home. The Signature Series Pour-Over is a take on the classic pour-over, with a functional design optimized to ensure consistent brewing of bold and flavorful coffee. Available in multiple finishes and colors. $17.99-$19.99

For the girl on the go! Gift her a 24-7 tote bag or a fun drawstring backpack from flip & tumble. These awesome and unique bags start out at about 3-4" in diameter, and when unfolded are full sized bags. They come in trendy designs that are sure to please any gal with a nose for fashion. My favorite part is I can toss one in my purse and hardly even know it's there. Then when I'm out shopping I can pull it out, unfold it, and have my own fashionable bag to carry my goodies in. No more generic store plastic bags for me! Perfect for those ladies that love to recycle & reuse things too.

This is a sponsored post on behalf of the above mentioned brand. I received product to share my honest and unbiased thoughts. However, all thoughts and opinions stated are my own and are in no way influenced by my partnership with mentioned brand.

Valentines Gifts for everyone you love!

Nothing screams "I love you" like a personalized teddy bear for your sweetheart. And this Heart and Arrow Personalized Teddy Bear does just that. With the name of your choice in the center of his heart you're sweetie will be thinking of you with every squeeze. Available in your choice of 11", 17" or 21" this super soft and cuddly bear will surely win the heart of it's recipient. Besides this cuddly cutie GiftsForYouNow.com also has a wide selection of other personalized gifts too. It's the first place I go when I want a unique gift that I can personalize myself.

Valentine's Day Gift Round-Up

Besides candy cut flowers are at the top of many lists for Valentine's Day. I know over the years I've gotten them a few times myself. The only bad part is that they don't last very long and you're left with only the memory of how beautiful they were. That's why I started asking for live plants from my husband instead of cut flowers for holidays. Then I can enjoy them so much longer. A really neat living plant that any gal would love to receive for Valentine's Day is this Classic Red Anthurium. It has heart shaped leaves and it comes in a beautiful red pot, making it perfect for any room of the house. Just Add Ice has a stunning array of unique plants and they are super easy to care too through the ice method. By watering with ice not only does your plant get better absorption it also prevents over watering. Plus it's so much more convenient to drop in a few ice cubes once a week then try to guess how much water to add, or remember when the last time was you did it. And anyone that's received a plant as a gift I'm sure can agree with me when I say "convenience is key".

I'm one of those that's always cold, especially come wintertime. My feet and hands are always like ice no matter how many layers I seem to put on. So getting me a gift from feejays would be a no brainer. Feejays sweatshirts and sweatpants are both warm and comfortable. Their sweatshirts are fully lined with ultra plush sherpa with built-in mitts while their sweatpants just have lined feet. And honestly that's all you need to keep your tootsies warm! And just in case your toes get too warm (not that I would ever have that problem) there's a built-in "escape latch" underneath so you can take your feet out at any time. Only thing I used it for was to slip on a pair of shoes to run out to my car real quick!

Whether I'm just lounging on the couch watching a little television or cuddling up in the recliner with my favorite feline, in a pair of feejays is my favorite way to do it. Feejays are available in a wide variety of styles for both men and women (as well as children) making them a great couples gift too.

Speaking of couples gifts this set from Buhter Up is perfect for any couple on Valentine's Day. Buhter Up offers skin care products for men and women formulated with high quality natural ingredients. Right now they have a couples gift set for Valentine's Day called "For the Love of You". The gift set includes: Two Heart Shaped Goat Milk Soaps (Feminine and Masculine scented),  One Shea Butter Lotion infused with Goat Milk and Honey, two Rose infused bath bombs, a Bath Oil and Two Lip Balms. It's the perfect gift for ending a romantic Valentine's date with a spa night at home!

And when you're finished with that oh so soothing spa night you can both slip into your bottoms from Tani USA. Tani USA's SilkCut lounge shorts and Go Power Leggings are both comfortable and super soft beyond imagine. I'm talking like buttery soft material that's super smooth against your skin. You know the kind that makes you want to just spend your day in them relaxing. That's what these feel like. My husband loves that the shorts are free flowing and not tight on. He likes loose fitting shorts and these are perfect for him. I on the other hand love that the Power Leggings are more fitted, but not so tight they are uncomfortable. I was honestly surprised at how comfortable they were to just lounge around in. Their four-way stretch is definitely an added plus for comfort!

If you're a traditionalist and would rather give the gift of jewelry then let me introduce you to a unique necklace she's probably never seen before and will be sure to love. It's called the "I Love You" Necklace and it's from Miracle Finds. What makes it so special you ask?  Well let me tell you. By using your phone camera or flashlight you can see "I Love you" in 100 languages via the special nanotechnology love stone in the middle.

I bet she's never received a gift like this before making it all the more unique and special. Available in your choice of silver or rose gold this necklace will help you say "I love you" in more ways than you ever thought possible!

Or if you're looking for something unique then maybe a gift or two from Finders Key Purse®. Their gifts are the kind us ladies probably made reference to at least once or twice but never knew existed. Their signature product is just what their name suggests a Finders Key Purse®. What does it do you ask? It keeps our keys from falling to the bottom of our purses making them impossible to find among all of our other necessities. With the Finders Key Purse® our keys can hang conveniently on the edge of our purse (or other bag) making them super easy to "find". All while adding a little bonus decor at the same time. Perfect for those gals that like to show off the love of things like cats, ladybugs, etc. Their other awesome product that I really love when going out to eat is the Hang'em High® Foldable Purse Hanger. It's a fashionable "hook" so to speak that you can use to hang your purse from any flat surface keeping it off the ground. I love being able to hang my purse under the table beside me instead of on the back of my chair where I don't feel like it's safe. When not in use it curls up into a small circle and can be kept inside your purse for use anywhere.

Speaking of nontraditional. How about outfitting that special someone with some fashionable (and affordable) glasses. I know for me I love to coordinate my glasses with my outfits when I can. And thankfully I don't have a crazy prescription so I can use standard readers and bifocals. Which means I can affordably have multiple pair to do that with. And thanks to the folks over at Readers.com I even have a super cute red pair to wear when my husband and I go out on our Valentine's Day lunch date.

Readers.com has a wide selection of non-prescription reading glasses perfect for anyone who may require a little extra assistance when reading. With hard-to-find powers ranging from +1.00 to +7.00 and a selection of styles for every occasion - ranging from bifocals to sunglass readers to computer readers and more - this may be just the gift you're looking for.

This is a sponsored post on behalf of the above mentioned brand. I received product to share my honest and unbiased thoughts. However, all thoughts and opinions stated are my own and are in no way influenced by my partnership with mentioned brand.

Orchard's Abundance - Fruit Gift Basket for mom

If you're like many moms out there (including me) you're trying to do your best to eat better and live a healthier lifestyle. It's not always easy especially when it comes to the holidays that family members like to get you things like chocolates and other sweets. This year I told my husband and kids "no chocolate and candy for me" for Mother's Day. No matter how much they think I might like it I am trying hard to steer clear of the unnecessary added sugar. I would much rather receive a gourmet basket filled with naturally sweet things like apples! Kind of like the Orchard's Abundance - Fruit Gift Basket from Gourmetgiftbaskets.com. They always have wonderful baskets to choose from and their foods are always fresh. Just look at those luscious red apples and "orange" oranges. And I will be the first to tell you they tasted just as good as they look. I would be happy with a basket like this any day over one filled with chocolates and other candies. Yes this basket did have a few candies in it, but it was only a few which is much better than an entire basket full when you're trying to behave.

Basket Contents:
• Fresh Orchard Fruits - These juicy pears, oranges and crisp apples are hand-picked from premium orchards.
• Sea Salt Caramel Sauce by Stonewall Kitchen - 12.25 oz. - An excellent dip for fresh cut fruit, with the smooth rich taste of sweet caramel with a touch of gourmet sea salt.
• Classic Vermont Sharp Cheddar Cheese by Cabot - 8 oz. - A robust Vermont cheddar cheese that's carefully aged to achieve a distinctive award-winning flavor.
• Stoned Wheat Crackers by Eleanor & Flynn - 4 oz. - Thick and hearty square crackers that are baked until crisp.
• Milk Chocolate Sea Salt Caramels by Sanders - .5 oz. - Gooey caramel is enrobed in delicious milk chocolate, then delicately sprinkled with sea salt.
• Roasted & Salted Peanuts by J&R Gourmet - 2 oz. - Classic peanuts that are evenly sprinkled with salt and gently hand-roasted.
• Chocolate Covered Cherries by Marich - 2.3 oz. - Sweet all natural cherries get even sweeter when dipped into milk chocolate.
• (5) Assorted Citrus Slices by Primrose Candy - Individually-wrapped hard candies that delight with vibrant fruit flavors.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post on behalf of the above mentioned brand. I may have received monetary compensation and/or product in exchange for my honest and unbiased thoughts. However, all thoughts and opinions stated are my own and are in no way influenced by my partnership with mentioned brands.

Valentine's Day: Personalized Gifts for all!

If you ask me nothing says "I love you" like a gift that's personalized. To me that means the gifter went to a little extra trouble to find the perfect gift, and to make is special at the same time. I've always been a big fan of photo gifts, but I also like simple gifts with embroidery on them too. For instance like this super soft Sherpa blanket from GiftsForYouNow.com. One side of the blanket is a luxurious faux Micro Mink (super soft and silky) and the other side is cozy faux lambswool Sherpa (super soft and warm). It's a combination any recipient would love. You can trust me on it because I LOVE my new blanket. The Sherpa side is so soft and fuzzy, and boy does it keep me warm and toasty when it's cold out. The blanket is 50" x 60" so it's a nice size to cuddle up under in your favorite recliner with enough to wrap all around you.

The quality of the embroidery is really nice too. I love that when I fold it up I can have our name displayed as it sits on the back of the couch.

Here are some top gift ideas from GiftsForYouNow.com that are sure to be a hit with that special someone on your Valentine's Day list. And they even have gifts for the kiddos and the pets!

• Personalized Sherpa Blankets  - cozy blankets available in a multitude of colors or themes (sports!)  Prices start at $49.99.

• Fun Kid Gifts - A chalkboard notebook set or pencil pouch customized with his/her name or even a fun apron or gym bag! Prices as low as $10.

• Pet Presents – Customized food mats, bowls and more for Fido with many under $25.

• Canvas & Wall Décor  - Add a personalized touch to your home with custom wall hangings and picture frames with prices starting at $22.

• Holiday Themed Gifts – Great for teachers, family or friends, personalized ornaments, stockings and décor.

• Kitchen & Home Décor - From custom baskets to picture frames, hand towels and glassware, these are great gifts to bring to a party or for the Martha Stewart in your life.

• Golf Lovers- Any golf lover would love a personalized glass of pilsner after a long sunny day or a golf club cover to protect their favorite golf clubs with style! Prices starting at $14.98.

• Foodies- What a better gift for barbecue lovers than a personalized platter to make them feel special! From barbecue cutter to barbecue aprons and more!  Prices starting at $29.98.

• Sports Enthusiasts- From personalized sports blankets and personalized frames to personalized sports clothing! Great way to involve kids by choosing the color, number or any name they want to put on. Prices starting at $49.98

Connect with GiftsForYouNow.com: Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post on behalf of the above mentioned brand. I received product(s) in exchange for my honest and unbiased thoughts. All thoughts and opinions stated are my own and are in no way influenced by my partnership with mentioned brands.

Staying Close Message Center

Last year I introduced you to a new to me online store called red rock traditions. I shared with you their My Wish for you necklace that I had received. Well I am happy to say I am partnering with them again this year to feature one of their new products for 2017. It's called the Staying Close Message Center. Since we have family that live out of state I thought it would be a neat place to store the kids letters they want to send their grandparents. It even has a small clock that I could set to the time where they live so my daughter doesn't accidentally call them too late. In the photo I slid in a few bills on one side and some booklets to show you the sizing capacity of the openings. I haven't gotten a small enough photo to put in the little framed area yet so right now it's just the stock card insert. I guess what I'm getting at is even if you don't customize it right away it's still a useful and beautiful piece. I love how it looks in our country themed kitchen.

Candy that's good for you...say what?

So if someone walked up to me and said here have a piece of candy it's good for you I would have said "your nuts, candy isn't good for you". That is until I was introduced to Ice Chips Candy. Ice Chips is good for you because it's made with pure Xylitol instead of sugar or sugar substitutes. Xylitol has many great benefits and can actually help reduce things like new tooth decay and cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth. Now tell me what's not to love about that?

When I first tried Ice Chips I tried the Strawberry Daiquiri flavor because I love all things strawberry. I was pleasantly surprised at the full flavor of the small "chips" of candy. And that they actually do look like chiseled off pieces of ice from an igloo or something outdoors. Falling in instant love with them I was super excited I had so many more flavors to experience over time.

I will say I've been thankful the last few days to have the Menthol Ice Chips tin because my son was nice enough to share his cold with me. When I feel my throat start getting sore I just suck on a chip or two and it gives it a nice cooling sensation. So much better than cough drops if you ask me. I'm actually thinking of purchasing their Therapuetic Pack to split up into two sets of three and gift them to my parents and grandparents. They are definitely a must have right now with the winter cold settling in and everyone passing around the germs.

Ice Chips make a great anytime gift, but since it's almost Christmas they would make an excellent stocking stuffer too! And right now they even have fun pre-filled stockings in variety or holiday flavor combinations. I know I would be pretty excited to receive an Ice Chips filled stocking!

Why Xylitol?
• Strengthens teeth
• Reduces new tooth decay
• Reduces cavity-causing bacteria
• Inhibits growth of dental plaque
• Stimulates saliva flow
• Does NOT impact insulin levels
• Contains zero net effective carbs
• Delicious and satisfying
• The FDA has approved xylitol as a Natural Sweetener
• Xylitol is a natural sweetener found in the fibers of many fruits and vegetables
• Xylitol is found in small amounts in the human body
• One teaspoon of xylitol contains 40% less calories than sugar
• Savoring ICE CHIPS Candy 3 to 5 times a day delivers maximum benefits
• Recent studies have found a link between consuming Xylitol during pregnancy and stronger teeth in infants

You can learn more about the benefits of Xylitol on the Ice Chips website.

Buy it: You can purchase Ice Chips online and at many retailers. Be sure to check out their Seasonal & Specials section of their website for limited time only offers to save big!

Connect with Ice Chips: Facebook | Twitter

Disclosure: I received compensation in the form of product in exchange for my honest and unbiased thoughts. All thoughts and opinions stated are my own and are in no way influenced by my partnership with mentioned brands.

Give her a gift from the heart

Looking for a unique gift to give that special someone? You know the kind that comes from the heart and lets your recipient know you put extra thought into it. Then look no further than red rock traditions. They offer a wide selection of unique gifts that you won't find in brick and mortar stores. I received their My wish for you necklace and have to say it's stunning. It features a silver plated locket charm and 16" sterling silver necklace. You can even make it a personalized gift and include a handwritten "wish" that can be carried inside the charm. My first thought when it arrived was this is super cute, and how sweet it would be to receive this as a gift with a little note inside. My son of course as usual had thoughts of his own when he saw it. He's been dating a girl from school for almost a year now and wanted to get her something special for Christmas. Of course being a teenager he doesn't have much money in the bank to get her something nice. So being the good mom I like to think I am I offered the necklace to him for his girlfriend. And to be fair I told him he had to earn it so it would truly be a gift from him and not me. He was very excited and agreed to my offer right away. Now to see if I can convince him to let me see what he writes on the little notes before he gives it to her. He's only 16, but he's super smitten with this girl so I am sure they will be cute little sayings he comes up with. And it will truly make it a "gift from the heart".

I get my Holiday Gifts and Decor from Thirty-One #thirtyone

If you haven't checked out Thirty-One in a while I encourage you to do so because things are always changing from season to season. Like right now they have some really fun stuff only available for the holidays. Like this super cute Santa Suit Littles Carry-All Caddy. What a fun way to decorate the top of a bookshelf, or give as a gift filled with the recipients favorite candies or home baked goodies. They also have a cute reindeer caddy as well as others that aren't holiday themed if you prefer one that can be used year round.

Maybe something a little more personal is you're style for giving. I recently ordered a little something for each member of my family personalized for them specifically. For my daughter I got an insulated lunch bag with a super cute tiara and her name embroidered on the front. For my son I got a drawstring bag with our last name on it so he can use it at school and another "Tyler" can't claim it as his. And last but definitely not least I got a really nice money clip with his initials etched on the clip. I thought this would make a nice gift for him because he doesn't use a regular wallet since he has to pull out his badge at work a lot. If you ask me a personalized gift really adds to the thought of what you're giving.

Of course sometimes personalization isn't needed when your giving something that looks great just the way it is. Take for instance my favorite purse the Everything Crossbody, I have it in three different colors and love how it looks without any extras. Or the Explorer Crossbody that comes with a fun message already on it. My daughter begged me for the one pictured as soon as she saw it in the catalog. She's one of those kids that really just likes to be herself no matter what anyone else says or thinks. I love that about her so I knew this would make a perfect surprise gift for her.

The best part of shopping Thirty-One is that they even have a hostess program where you can earn the products you want to buy at a discount, or even FREE! Plus they have great bonus items you can only get by hosting a party. And don't fret if you're thinking A PARTY right now!? You don't even have to have a real party with Thirty-One, you can host a catalog party or a virtual online party. Then guests can order right from the website under your party and you'll still get the credit. This is great for those friends and family members that live out of town. Plus you'll be earning those credits to use towards gifts you want to give (or keep) for the holidays.

Customer Specials                   Hostess Rewards

The cutoff to order products to be delivered by Christmas is December 12. Make sure when you visit the Thirty-One website you check out their customer specials and hostess rewards program for full details.

Connect with Thirty-One:
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Disclosure: I received compensation in the form of product in exchange for my honest and unbiased thoughts. All thoughts and opinions stated are my own and are in no way influenced by my partnership with mentioned brands.

Give a gift that keeps on giving this holiday season!

When I do my holiday shopping I like to get gifts that people will enjoy and not just be tossed in a closet and forgotten. I know I'm victim of having gotten a few of those "what do I do with this" gifts. I always smile and thank the giver graciously, but after I get home I toss it in a drawer or closet hoping for the chance to re-gift it to someone that might actually use it. That's why when I shop I think not only is it something I would use, but is it something the recipient would use. I also like to take it one step further when gifting to people I know like to donate to charities and help those less fortunate. I like to give them a gift they will truly appreciate that also gives to someone else in the process. Kind of like when you give gifts from the Women's Bean Project.

Women's Bean Project is a transitional job training program for chronically unemployed and impoverished women. We provide jobs in gourmet food and handmade jewelry manufacturing. At the same time, we augment the skills they develop on the job by offering special programming and classes in interpersonal and life skills needed to move into career entry-level employment.

By working in an active business, program participants learn the importance of reliability, accuracy, punctuality, attention to detail and attendance; while also addressing life skills – communication, budgeting, accountability, problem solving and goal setting. Our graduates become empowered to lead successful, self-sufficient and fulfilling lives, creating a brighter future – for themselves, their families, our communities and our economy.

I really like Women's Bean Project because not only does your recipient receive a gift they can enjoy but someone else also benefits from your purchase of that gift. So really it's like your giving two gifts at the same time, and at least one of them keeps on giving. They offer gifts in all sorts of categories like apparel, food, beverages, and handmade jewelry. So really they have something to offer that anyone on your Christmas list would like. I mean who doesn't love getting sweets as a present? I know I sure do!

Disclosure: I received compensation in the form of product in exchange for my honest and unbiased thoughts. All thoughts and opinions stated are my own and are in no way influenced by my partnership with mentioned brands.

Show them some love...beelove™ that is

Looking for a special yet unique gift for your honey this Christmas? Then why not head on over to beelove™ and check out some of their awesome honey inspired products. You can choose from all natural honey in a jar - perfect for adding to hot tea on a cold morning, or one of their honey infused skincare products or collections. I've always been a sucker for honey flavored treats, but you know what's even better? Honey...yes just honey right out of the jar, of course it has to be the good kind that's natural. There's nothing like it and once you've tasted it I promise you'll never go for anything less than the best. beelove™ honey is no exception when it comes to quality honey, they go the extra mile to make sure it's made to the highest quality and it shows. They even have some really great smelling body care products that contain honey too which is a natural moisturizer for your skin. So why not indulge in a little honey treat for your body both inside and out!

beelove™ travelers collection
An ideal collection for all of us who just don’t want to travel without beelove™. It includes several of our personal body care products, all in convenient airport safe sizes. This thoughtful travelers collection includes beelove™ restore & protect ultimate body balm, beelove™ cleanse & refresh amenity lathering shower gel, beelove™replenish & soften amenity body lotion and beelove™ care & repair natural lip balm. Each with our signature beelove™scent.

beelove™ 12 oz. chicagoland raw natural honey
For those who can’t get enough beelove™ honey, we offer a 12 oz. jar. The bees in our beelove™ Apiaries create a remarkable light and delicious blend that is uniquely ours. Made with the help of our local flowers, beelove™ has a rich natural flavor all it’s own. beelove™  honey has earned the distinguished Certified Naturally Grown label, assuring you of the highest quality. Do not feed honey to infants under one year of age.

beelove™ is a social enterprise offering full-time transitional jobs for formerly incarcerated individuals and others with significant barriers to employment in a green industry, teaching individuals how to harvest its very own urban honey from hives.

What better way then to give a gift that keeps on giving than with one that gives back the way that beelove™ does.

Disclosure: I received compensation in the form of product in exchange for my honest and unbiased thoughts. All thoughts and opinions stated are my own and are in no way influenced by my partnership with mentioned brands.

Enjoy a backyard lunch with dad pest free!

We love to eat outside as soon as the weather starts to warm up, especially on special occasions like Father's Day. However living out in the country we tend to have way more pests flying around than we like while trying to eat. We've been debating getting a pop-up tent or something to set up so we can enjoy eating outside more, but the cost has really kept us from it. Plus all of the work it would take to put it up each time we wanted to use it. Thankfully we found this awesome alternative! It's a Patio Table Mosquito Canopy that only goes right around the area where you are sitting. It's super easy to toss over the top of your patio table umbrella and then it drapes down all around you keeping the pests out. It even has a zippered flap so you don't have to lift up the entire thing to go in or out of the canopy.

You may be wondering why I'm not showing my usual at home photo with this on..well let me tell you a little story. We used it to treat my husband to breakfast out back one morning before church. After breakfast we cleared the table and pulled down the canopy to bring it inside so nothing would happen to it. We have cats and chickens roaming around and didn't trust them to leave it alone while we were away at church. What we didn't do however was close up the table umbrella. And apparently while we were gone there was some massive wind because it completely knocked over the table, umbrella and all. Long story short our umbrella was damage and could no longer hold up the canopy correctly for you to sit under it. We are hoping to find a new one this summer on a hot deal though because we really enjoyed being able to eat in peace out back.

Patio Table Mosquito Canopy
This is the enclosure that fits over a patio table’s umbrella to provide a protective canopy that keeps out biting insects. Eliminating the need for sprays or candles, it is made from sturdy 68-denier polyester netting too small for insect pests to penetrate, and it fits over umbrellas up to 9' in diameter while its 96" length extends all the way to the ground. The bottom’s entire perimeter stays flush with the ground to keep out insects in breezes using an integrated PVC ring that can be filled with water. A zippered flap provides easy entry and exit. Removes easily by sliding off an umbrella’s outer edges when lowered or closed.

Connect with Hammacher Schlemmer: 
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Disclosure: I received the products featured in this post for free in exchange for my honest and unbiased thoughts. All thoughts and opinions state are my own and are in no way influenced by my partnership with mentioned brands.

All Good: New Mom Gift Set

Gift mom a gift she'll love not just on Mother's Day, but for many months to come with a gift set from All Good. All Good — makers of organic skincare and healing products—just released their New Mom Gift Set, and it's perfect for new moms and moms-to-be! All Good products are free of harsh chemicals keeping mom and baby safe while nourishing and protecting their skin. You tell me wouldn't you love to get this set for Mother's Day? I know I sure would because I love skincare products!

Includes:
All Good Organic Hand Sanitizer
All Good Organic Coconut Lip Balm
All Good Organic Maroon Creek Tinted Lip Balm
All Good Organic Coconut Oil
All Good Organic Lavender Body Lotion
All Good Goop (recently named #1 Bathroom Staple, baby will never have diaper rash!)

About All Good  
Founded in 2006, All Good offers a collection of all-natural skincare products made from simple plant-based ingredients. From chemical-free zinc sunscreens and sore muscle recovery spray to silky smooth lip balms, lotions and coconut oils, All Good supports an active, healthy lifestyle with their organically grown formulas. Located in Morro Bay, CA, All Good is dedicated to social and environmental responsibility, is a B Corporation and member of 1% for the Planet. All Good endorses campaigns for safe cosmetics by testing its products on humans rather than animals. Available online and in 3,000+ retailers nationwide including health food stores, outdoor sports shops and high-end gift shops.
To learn more about All Good and their products, visit www.AllGoodProducts.com.

Connect with All Good:
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A classy gift for any "Photo Mom"

I consider myself to be a photographer of sorts...well really I'm a "photo mom" that likes to take pictures of her family so I can scrapbook it later. When you are going to scrapbook photos you take them in a whole different way then other people take photos because you know you will need to be able to tell a story in your layout with them. So that means I take a lot of photos. That also means I like to take my camera pretty much anywhere we go on trips or at practices. And that means carrying a camera bag to protect it. As a mom I want a bag that can hold my camera and it's accessories all together in one safe place. Something I can grab on the go and not have to worry about. And last but not least (for me anyhow) a bag that's compact and easy to toss on my shoulder alongside my purse. I'm not really an all-in-one type of gal when it comes to a camera bag, I prefer something small like the bag in the above photo. It's called The Holster S (for small) and it's part of the newly launched 24/7 Traffic Collection. I love that it's classy looking so it won't stand out when I'm toting it around. It holds my camera as well as my spare batteries and charger all in the main compartment. It has a front pocket for a spare SD card and an outside pocket where I can put small things. It even has a nice adjustable carrying strap and a built-in all weather cover right in the bottom of the bag. Pretty cool if you happen to be out shooting photos and it starts to rain.

Besides this bag there are lots of other great bags in the 24/7 Traffic Collection, so if this seems a bit small for you don't fret they have lots of others to choose from!

24/7 Traffic Collection styles:
The Holster M is a medium-sized holster designed for fast-paced city life. It can hold a standard DSLR camera, a memory card and personal items and can be worn either across the body or on the shoulder.

The Holster S is similar to the Holster M, but has a more compact size for carrying a mirrorless camera and additional personal items either across the body or over the shoulder.

The Messenger S is specially designed for bicyclists looking to carry a standard DSLR kit. It has an additional padded insert to keep equipment from jostling around during a bike ride.

The Pouch is designed with extra padding and support to safely hold a superzoom camera. It can be carried on the shoulder or attached to a belt for free-hand shooting.

The Shoulder is created for commuting photographers looking for style and discretion with a little extra space. It fits a standard DSLR kit as well as any equipment necessary for a full day of shooting.

The Sling is designed to give shooters ultimate flexibility on the job. It offers side access to take the camera out without removing the bag – making gear accessible in a flash.

Give mom the gift of Epsom Salt

Okay, you can’t just give your mom Epsom Salt for Mother’s Day, but you can put together one of these great gift baskets tailored to her interests:

For moms who Namaste: Fill a basket with a pretty pair of yoga leggings and tank top, a yoga mat, reusable water bottle, Lärabars, and a carton of Epsom salt to ease sore muscles after a tough class.

Include these directions on the card:
1. Add 2 cups of Epsom salt to a warm bath in a standard-sized bathtub.
2. Soak for at least 12 minutes.
3. Feel your muscles relax and unwind.

For moms with a green thumb: Buy a pair of gardening gloves, a weed puller, shovel, kneeling mat, seeds, and a carton of Epsom salt to help plants grow greener and deliver lush blooms.

Include these directions on the card:
1. Enrich soil by sprinkling 1 cup of Epsom salt per every 100 square feet of dirt.
2. Mix well into soil before planting.
3. Enjoy a beautiful, rich garden.

For moms who need a little “me-time”: For busy moms, give them a night off with a stack of their favorite magazines, a bottle of wine (or a box of their favorite tea), chocolates, essential oils, and a carton of Epsom salt to help soak the day away.

Include these directions on the card:
1. Add two cups of Epsom salt to your bathwater in a standard-sized tub.
2. Soak for at least 12 minutes.
3. Feel relaxed and sleep like a baby.

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Nothing beats a soft and cuddly gift for Easter

The only thing more fun than giving a soft cuddly plush animal for an Easter gift is giving one that makes sounds and moves too! I've always thought that stuffed animals with their own "personality" were so much fun. And now days there are so many different things that stuffed toys can do. They can sing, dance, read, and well..you name it. The people at Cuddle Barn want to make sure the recipients of their cuddly critters love them just as much as they do so they make sure each animal is ready to be used upon arrival. They all come complete with batteries and a pull tab that keeps them from running down before they arrive at your house. I really like that they have a button to activate them right on their bodies so it's easy to turn them on/off. Plus there's a switch on the bottom that you can use to turn them on/off. This is nice for youngsters that want to sleep with their cuddly friends but don't want to accidentally turn them on in bed.

Here are the animals shown in the photo above.

Storytime Bunny
Cuddly 12" bunny reads a 3 min version of "Story of Peter Rabbit."

Clucking Chuck
8" Chicken dances and spins to "Peter Cottontail"

Mary's Little Lamb
10" Lamb sways to "Mary had a Little Lamb"

Baa Baa Baby
8" Lamb dances and spins to "Peter Cottontail"

Check out this super cute video of Storytime Bunny reading his story. Now tell me who wouldn't love to have a story read to them by a bunny?


Buy it: Right now you can purchase these and other Cuddle Barn critters through their website and receive 10% off with code cuddle10.

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Let Eleni's New York be your Cookie Cupid!

Have you ever used the excuse that you're not any good at making homemade sugar cookies as a way to get out of work of making them? Well, whether you're good at it or not these Color Me cookies are a great way to spread some love and give your sweetheart that made from the heart touch. Inside the gift tin you'll find 12 iced sugar cookies all ready for decorating. Sometimes us busy moms would love to do things like have our kids decorate cookies for their dad, but just don't have the time. With awesome Color Me! Gift Sets kids can decorate the cookies with the included edible ink markers and show dad some creative love. Of course I used it as a way to gross my daughter out and wrote Stacy Loves Everett on one cookie. For some reason that type of mushy stuff just drives her crazy. So this mom takes every chance she can get to tease her just a little.

Millions of cards sent ...millions of flowers given...millions of chocolates eaten....it's *that* time of the year again- Single Awareness Day Valentine's Day! BUT if you're the average shopper, you wait 'til the day before to buy that cheesy card, fake flowers and cheap chocolates. (Thanks, corner-store-around-the-corner!)

Well, consider Eleni's New York your COOKIE CUPID.

You find the lucky person and they'll deliver the goods with overnight shipping available aka the best last-minute Valentine’s Day gift set that still looks thoughtfully considered (so, yes, you still have time to find someone...or break up with your current squeeze and find someone new!)

                                                                          

No matter how fun or serious you want to be...how sweet or outrageous...your last minute secret is safe with Eleni's New York. Our cookie lips are sealed!

                                                                           

Connect with Eleni's New York:

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Thank teachers for everything they do with Thank You, Teacher!

Teacher appreciation doesn’t have to wait until the end of the year, or for Teacher Appreciation Day! This Valentine's Day, thank teachers for everything they do by giving them this adorable gift book, Thank You, Teacher! Why not give them something special for all they give to our kids everyday. And what better time than Valentine's Day. I know my daughter's teacher will be giving the class treats and think it's the perfect time to show our appreciate to him too.

About:
Thank You, Teacher! was written by Josephine Collins and illustrated by Jill Latter (Thunder Bay Press; August 2015; ISBN: 978-1-62686-432-0; $9.95). Cute and compact, this book expresses appreciation for the knowledge and encouragement teachers offer their students, and also recognizes all the tasks they perform outside the classroom. With charming illustrations and sweet words, this book acknowledges instructors with a special note of gratitude. Tell your mentors how much you appreciate them with Thank You, Teacher!, perfect for students of any age.

Maple Tree Tapping Kits make great gifts!

If you've ever thought about maple tapping now's a great time to check it out. It's something you can do on your own, or as a family and then enjoy the benefits for a long time after.

About:
Are you new to maple sugaring or a first-timer wondering if this is for you? Don’t be intimidated by taking on this hobby. While it does seem daunting at first, we promise that once you’ve done it, you’ll be amazed by how simple and straightforward the entire process is and by what a great family and outdoor winter activity sugarmaking can be. Once you’ve been through the first season, you’ll have the tools, the knowledge, and the experience to easily do it again next year – and you’ll probably be looking for even more maple trees!

And don’t forget, you have Maple Tapper (mapletapper.com) with you and we’re not going to leave you alone in the woods! We’ve filled our website and blog with inspiration and information. We will answer every question sent to us and keep growing our forum with questions from folks just like you. Every kit comes with an 80-page book filled with details and instructions for every step including photos, recipes, and more. Also included is a take-along instruction sheet that you can carry with you as you tap your trees. Both pieces were written by a professional writer (who’s also a sugarmaker) and she researched everything thoroughly, interviewed professionals, and took pictures of the entire process.

Tapping Season:
Maple Tapping season starts around mid-February and can last through mid-April and really depends on where you live. For the most part, regions that can tap trees are: the Midwest, the Northeast, and the northern half of the Atlantic Coast. The big key to collecting sugar maple sap is that the tree must go through a freeze/thaw cycle almost daily. Temps fall below freezing at night and then rise above 40ish during the day which causes the sap to flow. This weather pattern is what happens in late winter in these regions. Also, sap is only sweet-tasting until the buds pop out on trees – again a situation that happens mostly in those areas. We’re not discouraging anyone from trying it out but their finished syrup may not taste very good if they’re in the wrong part of the country.

Gift Giving:
Both the adult and kid’s kits make great holiday gifts. It really has everything you look for in a present: affordable, unique, educational, nature-oriented, fun for all ages, and reusable for years. And it sure beats another video game for kids to stare at! They offer larger kits, individual supplies, and other syrup making equipment at our website at www.mapletapper.com and shipping is always free.

Buy it: You can purchase Maple Tree Tapping Kits on Amazon.

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Giveaway CLOSED - The winner has been notified via email and confirmed.

Win it:  One lucky reader will win a Kid's Kit and one lucky reader will win an Adult Kit. This giveaway will end December 8th at 11:59 PM EST. The winner will have 24 hours to respond to my email. If no response, a new winner will be chosen.  Prize fulfillment will be made by the sponsor, I am not responsible for prize delivery or lost or stolen deliveries. Open to residents of the US.

Entry Method:  Please use Rafflecopter form to enter.