Less Naughty. More Nice. Oh Play teething bracelet review

{Less Naughty. More Nice. is a way for me to promote amazing products with reviews and giveaways! I am sharing ethically produced products in advance of the Christmas buying season. I have a heart for fair trade, eco-friendly and U.S. made companies. It will continue through November 11th. I am receiving no financial compensation for these promotions. However, I have received sample product in order to supply you an authentic and honest review.}

I have found a very practical bracelet for my Mommy-hood days of drool craziness! My little teething monster, Boatboy, tries to put everything in his mouth. And loves all of my jewelery which, clearly, is not safe for his mouth. Now have a piece that is!

Let me introduce you to Roundhouse Design. They have made a teething bracelet EXTREMELY safe. This stylish bracelet is constructed of medical grade thermoplastic. It's non-toxic, bacteria resistant and lead free. These beauties are completely recyclable and made in the USA! Truly AMAZING and very impressive! And it gets better...they give back! Proceeds from the bracelet go to Healthy Child Healthy World, a national, non-profit organization inspired to create and protect healthy environments for children and families.
This bracelet is a great gift to yourself or an expectant friend. Not only is this an amazing teething bracelet it can also be used as a nursing reminder bracelet until your child is teething.

OH PLAH! Comes in 5 colors and retails for $19 to $24.99. Check out their amazing bracelets and baby carrier as well.

Thanks OH PLAH! We are a huge fan!

Less Naughty. More Nice. personalized handmade baby blanket

{Less Naughty. More Nice. is a way for me to promote amazing products with reviews and giveaways! I am sharing ethically produced products in advance of the Christmas buying season. I have a heart for fair trade, eco-friendly and U.S. made companies. It will continue through November 11th. I am receiving no financial compensation for these promotions. However, I have received sample product in order to supply you an authentic and honest review.}

Two Tinas has all the personalized baby essentials you could ever need.

I was lucky enough to receive this amazing blanket with Boatboy's initial on it. I can't decide if I love the plushness of the fabric or the hand sewn applique or the way it washes up best. Two Tinas offers bold colored handmade blankets fashioned here in the US.

These blankets are definitely made to take anywhere. They were also just awarded the PTPA Media Seal of approval for excellence in parenting products. Each blanket is made from 100% ultra soft cotton, machine washable, and already preshrunk to 36 x 30. The initial you select is hand appliqued with washable Ultrasuede, a fabric that only gets softer every time you wash it. This amazing blanket is available in eight different two-tone color combination.

Two Tinas has figured out how to make a quality blanket that washes up fantastically! This would be a unique treat for you and your baby or a nice baby gift. Go check out all of their beautiful products. And, there are some SALE items too.

Monster vs Dragon

We will dance...



...we will hug.

And, we will rule your world!

Happy Halloween ( circa 2006)

Back in the day we used to dress up the dog. As priorities mature, now Chloe just gets locked away at home while we dress up the boys. And, eat candy...on a day that is traditionally about celebrating the dark forces. What a strange weekend. Have a good one. Happy Halloween!

Less Naughty. More Nice. UPrinting custom stickers (giveaway)

{Less Naughty. More Nice. is a way for me to promote amazing products with reviews and giveaways! I am sharing ethically produced products in advance of the Christmas buying season. I have a heart for fair trade, eco-friendly and U.S. made companies. It will continue through November 11th. I am receiving no financial compensation for these promotions. However, I have received sample product in order to supply you an authentic and honest review.}
I received my amazing 18x 24 poster print a couple weeks ago from UPrinting. We were so incredibly impressed with the quality of this picture. Absolutely LOVE it!
I am so excited to have partnered with such a quality printing company that offers everything and anything you might need. As I mentioned in my last review they really care. UPrinting has been a leading online printing company for over 25 years. Their mission is to give back to the community by helping non-profit organizations achieve their charitable goals. And my favorite thing about the company is their ecological consciousness through FSC certification, SFI certification, use recycled papers and soy ink!

I have another outstanding product to share with you that will be perfect for the holiday season. UPrinting makes stickers. You can use them business or personal use. I will be using my 250 stickers for each and everyone of my Christmas envelopes or Christmas postcards (my next UPrinting giveaway). I am still undecided on the picture, but I will be sure to share my stickers when I receive them.

Buy them: $44 for 250 stickers 2” x 3.5”, 2” x 4”, or 3” x 3” on 70# matte label paper. They have full color front and blank back. And, take 4 business days to print.

Win them: UPrinting is giving one Blondes, Poop & Mascara reader 250 stickers. Leave me a comment telling me how you will use these stickers. I will select a winner on November 3 viarandom.org.

Extra Entries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Tell me your favorite thing about my blog that isn't a review or giveaway.
4. Follow me on twitter... mrsblonde1
5. Tweet about this giveaway like so "@mrsblonde1 is giving away 250 custom FSC/SFI certified stickers by @uprinting as part of #LessNaughtyMoreNice http://tinyurl.com/yhm35wk RT"
6. Grab my button and post it to your cyber space.
7. Grab my Less Naughty. More Nice. button and post it to your cyber space.
8. Blog about this contest and leave the link in your comment.
9. Follow @uprinting on Twitter.

Thanks for entering!!

autumn family photo shoot part II

If you missed part one of our recent photo session with Full Pockets Photography scroll down a couple entries or click here. A couple shots from Part II are posted below. See the rest on Katelin's blog here.

Less Naughty. More Nice. Kidbean: vegan children's slippers (giveaway)

{Less Naughty. More Nice. is a way for me to promote amazing products with reviews and giveaways! I am sharing ethically produced products in advance of the Christmas buying season. I have a heart for fair trade, eco-friendly and U.S. made companies. I am receiving no financial compensation for these promotions. However, I have received sample product in order to supply you an authentic and honest review. The event ends November 11.}

Let me introduce you to my experience with a vegan family superstore, Kidbean! This online store has it all. And when I say has it all I mean all vegan products, sweatshop free and eco-friendly. I get very excited and feel so passionate about companies that are truly making a difference. Wow! I just want to say thank you.

Kidbean was started 9 years ago by a very special Mom who couldn't find products she believed in. So she started Kidbean while pregnant and now 2 kids later it is going strong!

I was given two pairs of children's vegan slippers in royal/apple. We have hardwood and tile in most of our home so my boys have worn their slippers every day for two weeks now and sleep in them most nights. They love them. They are soft with faux fur on the inside and very easy to put on. I have three pairs of various brands of slippers from other companies. They either don't stay on or the boys slip all over the floor. These truly are the best slippers ever and I know where they came from. Great slippers!

Kidbean has so many products to check out. So while you are thinking of Christmas presents this company truly has a little of everything and I totally approve!

Buy a pair: The soft Sole Slippers are only $34

Win a pair: Melissa at Kidbean is giving one Blondes, Poop & Mascara reader a pair of Soft Star Shoes in either royal/apple roo or pink/ginger roo. Just leave me a comment of one other product you like and who would be wearing these new slippers!

Extra Entries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Follow me on twitter (@mrsblonde1)
4. Tweet about this giveaway like so "@mrsblonde1 is giving away a pair of children's vegan slippers by @KidBean as part of #LessNaughtyMoreNice http://tinyurl.com/ygvbb6o"
5. Grab my button and post it to your cyber space.
6. Grab my Less Naughty. More Nice. button and post it to your cyber space.
7. Blog about this contest and leave the link in your comment.
8. Become a fan of Kidbean on Facebook.
9. Follow Kidbean on Twitter (@KidBean)

Thanks for entering! I will randomly select a winner November 6th.

autumn family photo shoot

We had the pleasure of being photographed by Katelin Carter of Full Pockets Photography again this weekend. You might remember our post from August from our last session. Below are a couple of our favorites from the preview on her blog.

boys in a basket

Less Naughty. More Nice. Wax Seal Necklace (giveaway)

{Less Naughty. More Nice. is a way for me to promote amazing products with reviews and giveaways! I am sharing ethically produced products in advance of the Christmas buying season. I have a heart for fair trade, eco-friendly and U.S. made companies. I am receiving no financial compensation for these promotions. However, I have received sample product in order to supply you an authentic and honest review. The event ends November 11.}

I am sure you can tell by now that I love monogrammed items almost as much as I love little boys shoes. My favorite company for such is Lauren Nicole Gifts. I featured them earlier this year. When I think about giving gifts to the Grandmas or to friends I can't think of a more personal gift to give.

Lauren Nicole Gifts are all handmade and made in the USA. There is a personal touch with every item. Each item comes in a little tin package. So fun and cheery!

Buy it: Pick up a Fine Silver Wax Seal Charm Necklace for only $34. Or, pick one of several other outstanding silver options.

Win it: Lauren Nicole Gifts is giving away a hand stamped custom wax seal charm silver necklace because you're a Blondes, Poop and Mascara blog reader! Just leave a comment with your email address letting me know who your necklace would honor. And, YES, you it could be your own monogram.

Extra Entries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Follow me on twitter (@mrsblonde1)
4. Tweet about this giveaway like so "@mrsblonde1 is giving away a custom Lauren Nicole Gifts silver necklace http://tinyurl.com/ykhaaka #LessNaughtyMoreNice Please RT"
5. Grab my button and post it to your cyber space.
6. Grab my Less Naughty. More Nice. button and post it to your cyber space.
7. Blog about this contest and leave the link in your comment.
8. Sign up for Lauren Nicole Gift's newsletter.
9. Follow Lauren Nicole Gift's blog.

Make sure to leave all applicable extra entries in a separate comment.

I'll select a random winner on Wednesday, October 28.

Thank you for stopping by Blondes, Poop & Mascara during the Less Naughty. More Nice. event.

still lovin' it! - Munchie Mug revisted

Almost a year ago, I introduced the Munchie Mug here on Blondes, Poop & Mascara. After 11 months of hard use, it's still phthlate free, BPA free, made in the USA and going strong here in our home. It's the little things like a snack container that keeps all the crumbs in that prevent Moms from going too crazy ya know. They even have new colors now too! Check'em out.

Buble's Crazy Love ups and downs

It's predictable...
It's unoriginal...
It's chart-topping "Pop"...

So, why is Michael Buble's latest studio album, Crazy Love, worth listening to? Because it's really freakin' good!

It's exactly what the young listeners of today need reminded of...Big Band-style music with soaringly powerful vocals humming out simple and honest lyrics has a place in your earbuds! In a sense, Buble's lucky because his competition is very very slim in the crooner/jazz category. He's younger than Harry Connick Jr. And, he has more experience and market presence than Chris Mann.

Quick vitals on Buble: He's sold over 22 million albums worldwide. His previous album "Call Me Irresponsible" (2007) grabbed a Grammy and was a #1 album in over 15 countries. "It's Time" (2005) holds the record as the longest running title to remain on the Billboard Traditional Jazz charts. 80 weeks! He has had two #1 singles, "Everything" and "Home."

The highlight of the album for me is right off the bat with Buble's cover of the old jazz standard Cry Me A River. Originally performed by Ella Fitzgerald, Buble's version is everything the piece should be. Brilliant big band backing. Beautifully articulated notes. An absolutely gripping song. 5 stars.

It's downhill from there. But, not in a sinking-to-the-bottom-swirling-the-drain sort of way. In a gentle-coasting-this-is-nice-dinner-party sort of way.

All Of Me is nice.

Georgia On My Mind is alright.

Crazy Love is very enjoyable.

Composed largely of arranged covers, Buble did pen himself the biggest hit of the album so far in track #5. Haven't Met You Yet. It's catchy. Happy. Well done.

Then, we sort of just pace through the rest of the album. Nothing's "bad" but nothing rises above the first half of the cd either.

Least favorite: The cover of Eagle's classic Heartache Tonight seems really forced to me. I skip it every time.

Most favorite: Opening track and Buble's cover of Van Morrison's hit (the title track on the album) Crazy Love. In part because I like it. And, in part because Mrs. Blonde likes it enough that I think it gets her in the mood. -Mr. Blonde

For more there is a nice short CNN interview with Michael Buble here.

Thank you One2OneNetwork for the chance to review the album.

{Blondes, Poop & Mascara was given a copy of this album at no cost with the expectation that we would write an honest review on the release.}

Less Naughty. More Nice. Sugar Apple Design

{Less Naughty. More Nice. is a way for me to promote amazing products with reviews and giveaways! I am sharing ethically produced products in advance of the Christmas buying season. I have a heart for fair trade, eco-friendly and U.S. made companies. I am receiving no financial compensation for these promotions. However, I have received sample product in order to supply you an authentic and honest review. The event ends November 11.}

Sugar Apple Design is an eco-conscious caribbean inspired clothing company. Dedicated to using organic fabric and non toxic inks they print on items made in the good ol' U. S. of A. Wow! I wish I could say that about all of my clothing items. Someday!

This very fun company was created by Shaunda Chiumento, an artist living in St. Thomas from the age 0f 5. All of these designs are her creations.

I very much enjoy Sugar Apple Design. It's fresh, fun and simple. An expression of Shaunda's appreciation for the Caribbean environment she adores.

I got the chance to check out the black and green palm tree design. The quality material looks amazing on. And, seeing a palm tree on my shirt in late October in the MidWest is enough to keep me just a bit warmer.

I also got to review the super cute orange and blue seahorse onesie for little Boatboy.

If you are looking for a gift or to start purchasing with more social consciousness check out Sugar Apple Design. They have so much to offer!

Thanks Sugar Apple Design for allowing me to review your products!

Influenza: we're in this...

...together

Less Naughty. More Nice. Teething Bling

Teething bling was inspired by babies who like to tug their Mommas jewelry. If you have a little one you know what I am talking about. This very stylish must have piece of jewelry really looks good and keeps a child busy.

Smart Mom was created by two brilliant moms. They not only created necklaces but they have bangles and keychains. Theseproducts are made with the highest-quality, phthalate-free, federally approved silicone in the entire Teething Bling™ line. The material is non-toxic, latex-free, food–safe and even dishwasher-friendly!

And, Smart Mom gives back a portion of their proceeds too! To Cure Search and Dress for Success.

If you are expecting, have a shower to attend or have a gnawing/teething/slobering little animal you must purchase some teething bling. During the month of October Smart Mom is offering 50% off their entire coral line. That means a $19.00 pendant like the one shown above is only $9.50. And the bangle is only $6.30 while the supplies last.

Thanks Smart Mom for allowing me to review a pendant. We love our teething bling!

pumpkin patch visit #1 pictorial

Saturday afternoon Papa, Nana and Mr. Blonde took LA and Boatboy to a local pumpkin patch. Mrs. Blonde couldn't make it as she got held up doing make-up for a bride who's schedule got pushed back three hours on her big day. In a couple weeks, we'll make our pilgrimage south for the real annual stop. But, we did have great fun at this one.

Wordless Wednesday

LA and his favorite friend! This girl makes him smile from ear to ear!

Less Naughty. More Nice.Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics (giveaway)

{Less Naughty. More Nice. is a way for me to promote amazing products with reviews and giveaways! I am sharing ethically produced products in advance of the Christmas buying season. I have a heart for fair trade, eco-friendly and U.S. made companies. It will continue through November 11th. I am receiving no financial compensation for these promotions. However, I have received sample product in order to supply you an authentic and honest review.}

Oh sweet LUSH! Let me tell you about some new awesome LUSHness again! I said this last time ...and the time before. But, their products are out of this world. From the amazing smells to a fun, fresh, responsible, organic (often vegan) cosmetic company.

My new favorite product is the KING OF THE MODS Styling Gel. It's a soft-hold gel fragranced with grapefruit and lime. And it happens to work for our entire family. We all either have wavy or super curly hair. Our need is to keep the curls and frizz under control. It really works. The smell is so fresh and clean. The gel is made with almond and camellia oils that

keep our hair looking soft and healthy. If you haven't smelled a grapefruit and lime hair cocktail you're in for a real treat!
On top of all of the amazing products LUSH offers, they have an outstanding code of conduct dedicated to ethicals ways of doing business. They give to charities through their Charity Pot body lotion.

And, they have some Halloween and Christmas treats that you must have. Why not have fresh handmade products? Just how fresh is it? Each product has an expiration date on the package.

Buy it: King of the Mods styling gel retails for $16.45

Win it: Lush is giving one Blondes, Poop & Mascara reader their own King of the Mods styling gel (and therefore fall in love with). Leave me a comment telling me one other product you must have and why!

Extra Entries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Tell me your favorite thing about my blog that isn't a review or giveaway.
4. Follow me on twitter... mrsblonde1
5. Tweet about this giveaway.
6. Grab my button and post it to your cyber space.
7. Grab my Less Naughty. More Nice. button and post it to your cyber space.
8. Blog about this contest and leave the link in your comment.

Thanks so much for entering. I will randomly select a winner October 11th. Thanks LUSH!

Less Naughty. More Nice. Fair Trade Soccer Ball (giveaway)

{Less Naughty. More Nice. is a way for me to promote amazing products with reviews and giveaways! I am sharing ethically produced products in advance of the Christmas buying season. I have a heart for fair trade, eco-friendly and U.S. made companies. It will continue through November 11th. I am receiving no financial compensation for these promotions. However, I have received sample product in order to supply you an authentic and honest review.}

Let me introduce Fair Trade Sports, Inc. This company is amazing! I am so excited to have found this company. I love sports and have always looked forward to buying my little guys' some equipment. Even though I played every sport except soccer, I thought a soccer ball would be fun to kick around at the park with the boys. But this isn't any ole soccer ball created by any ole company...

Fair Trade Sports is the first sports equipment company in the U.S. to launch a full line of eco-certified fair trade sports balls, ensuring fair wages and healthy working conditions for our adult workers. They also offer sweatshop-free apparel. Learn more about their certifications here.

I had the opportunity to review this club size 3 soccer ball. Which is for children under 8.

Why it's great!...

1. Colorful and fun! My 1 and 3-year-old have a blast with it.
2. Fair Trade!...which means the adults who have produced this ball received a fair wage at no extra cost to you.
3. Eco-certified, union-made and vegan. WOW! I didn't know soccer balls could be vegan!
4. All after-tax profits go to children's charities.

I know us Moms are all buy sporting goods multiple times a year. Especially in thinking toward Christmas gifts for the special kiddos in your life. I encourage you to support this very unique company.

Buy it: Eco-soccer ball club size 3 retails for 34.99

Win it: Fair Trade Sports is giving one Blondes, Poop & Mascara winner a Eco Soccer Ball (Club Size 3 Dots). Leave me a comment telling me who will be kicking this ball around and one other product that you would like for yourself or family.

Extra Entries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Tell me your favorite thing about my blog that isn't a review or giveaway.
4. Follow me on twitter... mrsblonde1
5. Tweet about this giveaway.
6. Grab my button and post it to your cyber space.
7. Grab my Less Naughty. More Nice. button and post it to your cyber space.
8. Blog about this contest and leave the link in your comment.
9. Follow Fair Trade Sport Blog.

Thanks so much to Fair Trade Sports for creating such an incredible company and allowing me to partner with you during Less Naughty. More Nice.

Thanks for entering! I will randomly select a winner October 10.

a perfect Saturday morning for...

...some home movie viewing