{Never} Wordless Wednesday ~ Easter Fun

I hope you all had a great Easter with your family.  We had a busy weekend for sure.  We went to a friends aunts house on Saturday for an Easter Egg hunt and to play on their farm.  Then on Sunday the boys got their Easter baskets from the Easter bunny.

Then we met up with my brother in law at the park to hunt for Easter eggs.  I had seen a thing on facebook about having children hunt for their own color eggs.  We tried it and love it.  We were able to choose what was in the eggs basked on the kids.  I was able to put money in the eggs for the older boys and everyone collected the same number of eggs.  The kids did great with it.  They all knew what color to look for and left the others alone.  Evan was the only one that needed help, but that is to be expected for 20 months.

When they were done Evan decided he didn't want to carry his basket anymore so he gave it to Jayden.  He only wanted Jayden to help him.  LOL!  

After our hunt we went to my brother in laws to have a nice lunch and spend some time with family.  My other brother in law, sister in law, and nephew came over too.  The kids had fun playing.

Later when we got home Jayden and I got to color eggs while John and Evan took a nap.  It was the first time we had a chance since it was so busy all weekend.

Seventh Generation Toxin Freedom Fighters #FightToxins #MC

“I participated in a campaign on behalf of Millennial Central for Seventh Generation. I received a promotional item and product samples as a thank you for participating”

     So I am not that person with a super clean house.  In fact my house is rarely clean.  With working full time and 2 kids I just don't have that time to have a spotless house.  When I do have some free time I would rather spend it with my family.  Plus to be honest I just don't like to clean.  I hate using chemicals and often worry about the effects of all those chemicals.  Recently I learned about the Toxic Substances Control Act.

     I have teamed up with Seventh Generation to help spread awareness around the importance of chemical reform here in the United States.  Did you know that more then 80,000 chemicals are available in the United States and have not been fully tested for their toxic affects on the environment and our health?  Scientists have linked the exposure to toxic chemicals to health risks of cancer, Alzheimer's, learning disabilities, asthma, birth defects, and various reproductive problems.  I admit that I am sometimes naive about these kinds of things.  I guess I just want to believe that no one would want to put out a chemical that is truly dangerous for anyone or the environment.  But unfortunately that is not true.  So now I have to be concerned for my health and the health of my boys.  Learning about this makes me want to skip the use of chemicals all together.  Unfortunately that is not realistic.  So I will work to use a more Eco-friendly approach to cleaning.

     I was happy to learn about Seventh Generation and their connection to this cause.  They make some Eco-friendly cleaning products.  I have seen this brand at the store, but had not really tried any until now.  I am adding some of their products to my cleaning routine.  I like knowing that these products are safe to use around my children.  I am happy that Seventh Generation is available to me to keep my house and clothing clean without the toxic chemicals that can harm my family.

  The Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) was passed in 1976 and has never been updated.  At this time tens of thousands of potentially harmful chemicals continue to be used in the marketplace since the 1970's without proper testing and without disclosure by the companies that produce them.  It is scary to think that I have been exposed as well as my family to potentially  hazardous chemicals.  Seventh Generation's Toxin Freedom Fighters Campaign is working to establish safety standards for chemicals to protect children and other vulnerable groups.  They also want to ensure the public right to know about the safety and use of chemicals.

     I want to take steps to ensure the safety of my family.  I am signing the petition to support chemical reform.  I want to encourage you to do the same and protect your own family.  Just click on the badge above to sign the petition to help protect your own family.

{Never} Wordless Wednesday ~ World Wildlife Zoo Visit

     A couple of weeks ago we went to the World Wildlife Zoo near us.

Jayden was able to feed the birds.

This monkey liked Evan.  He was starring at him and would follow him around.  He even cried when we moved away.  

We got to feed some different birds later.  But they all wanted to eat Jayden's food, but would not sit on his hand.  At first he was shy and kind of scared, but then got sad they didn't get on him. One even took the apple from Jayden's hand and put it on mine.  But overall he was happy he was able to feed the birds.  

Evan's favorite part was the petting zoo.

He was giving the deer kisses.  

Take A Walk on the Wild Side with CLAWZ Shoes Review & Giveaway

 I was provided the below mentioned products in order to provide a review. 

     Jayden has always liked the slip on style molded shoes.  They are comfortable and easy for him to put on himself.  We always get him a pair or two for the Spring and Summer time.  This year we were looking for a new pair when I was offered a pair of the CLAWZ shoes.  Immediately I knew that Jayden would love them.

     CLAWZ shoes are brightly colored slip on shoes that are shaped like animal claws.  They are shoes that add some fun and adventure every time they are worn.  They are ergonomically comfortable and fun.  The material both repels odor and molds to the shape of your foot as you wear them.  They come in a variety of colors including lime, orange, black, blue, pink, and white.  They also come in sizes for kids, teens, and even adults.

     When we received the package Jayden was excited that we had something for him.  When he opened them up he was so excited to put them on.  He immediately took off his school shoes and put them on.  He walked around making animal sounds.  They fit him a little big, but he was kind of in between sizes and I opted for the larger size so he could grow into them.  I didn't want him to out grow them too fast.  But they stay on when he walks just fine. He loves wearing his CLAWZ anywhere we go.  He can't wear them to school, but any other time we go somewhere or even in the backyard he choose his CLAWZ.  Even Evan loves to wear his big brother's CLAWZ around the house.  

     Do you know someone that would like to walk on the Wild Side with a new pair of CLAWZ shoes?  You can purchase them online using the coupon code below for a great deal.  Also, I have a giveaway for one lucky person to win a pair.  

Buy it:  Coupon Code: arizona30
The coupon code gives users 30% off their Clawz so $29.99 becomes $9 off or $20.99, and $24.99 gets $7.50 off or $17.50. Free shipping on orders over $45. Expires MAY 20, 2014

Win it:  One (1) Arizona Mama reader will win their choice of size and color CLAWZ shoes

Enter in the Giveaway Tools form below! This giveaway will be open until 4/23 at 11:59PM (MST).

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Thank you to CLAWZ Shoes for sponsoring the review & giveaway

 I was provided the above mentioned products in order to provide a review. I was not compensated in any way. All thoughts and opinions are my own and not influenced. disclosure

Spring into #MakingMemories Giveaway Event ($350+ Value)

     

     Hey, this is an awesome unique idea ... digitally signed t-shirts from Sign My Shirt! They're all about creating and preserving memories. To celebrate spring (FINALLY!) they're having a Spring into #MakingMemories giveaway event! They've partnered up with some great brands that are also all about the memories. I am sooo ready to get outside and make new memories with the family this spring!

Over $350 in prizes!

Custom & signed tee from Sign My Shirt

Up to a size 16x20 canvas from Easy Canvas Prints

$50 gift card for transfer services from YesVideo

A memory bear from The Patchwork Bear
what an awesome idea to use your old Sign My Shirt tees for ;)

Calendar pendant from Not Just Any Old Day
includes crystal and 30" ball chain

8x8 hardcover 20-page photo book from Shutterfly

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I was not compensated for this post.  Arizona Mama is not responsible for fulfilling prizes.  

Disney's Pirate Fairy on Blu-Ray/DVD Now

The new movie The Pirate Fairy from Disney recently came out on DVD.  

     Jayden and I were excited to be invited to a screening of the movie last weekend.  Not only did we get to have a mommy son date, but we got to see a great new Disney movie.  I will be honest, I was not completely sure what the movie was about at first.  But that did not stop me from being excited.

    The movie is a swashbuckling adventure from the world of "Peter Pan".  It is about Zarina (voice of Christina Hendricks), a smart and ambitious dust-keeper fairy who's captivated by blue pixie dust and all the possibilities.  Zarina has a wild ideas and they get her into trouble.  She then flees from Pixie Hollow and joins forces with the scheming pirates of Skull Rock.  They make her captain of their ship.  Tinker Bell (voice of Mae Whitman) and her friends must embark on an epic adventure to find Zarina.  Together they go sword-to-sword against the band of pirates lead by a cabin boy named James (voice of Tom Hiddleston), who later becomes known as Captain Hook himself.  This movie has lots of laughter, love magic, and thrills.

     Although the movie centers mostly around the fairies, Jayden still enjoyed it.  He sat so quiet for the movie, just watching so closely.  I even enjoyed watching the show.  Towards the end Jayden realized that among the pirates was Smeed and that James was Captain Hook.  He was both surprised and excited.  He kept saying, "I didn't know that was Smeed and Captain Hook!"  He loved the little baby crocodile and when the fairies were fighting the pirates.  Needless to say we had a great mommy/son date and saw a fun movie.

Get The Pirate Fairy (Blu-ray / DVD + Digital Copy) Today!!

I was provided tickets to the screening free of charge in exchange for this post.  All thoughts and opinions are my own and not influenced.  

Lotus Bumz Cloth Diaper with Matching Leg Warmers Review

 Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.    

     I have used cloth diapers on both of my boys.  I cloth diapered my first from just a couple months old, and my second from the time I ran out of the hospital disposables they gave me, so a couple days old.  I have always enjoyed cloth diapering.  There are so many good reasons to use cloth diapers.  I do feel like I have saved so much money by not going out and buying diapers weekly.  I never run out of diapers and if they are all dirty then I just run a load of laundry.  But one of the best and cutest things about cloth diapers are the diapers themselves.  There are so many cute colors and prints.  Recently I received the most adorable elephant cloth diaper from Lotus Bumz and it included some adorable matching leg warmers too.

     Lotus Bumz diapers are a WAHM-operated business that is located in the U.S.A.  The Lotus Bumz diapers are fairly made in China.  The diapers are one-size pocket diapers.  The diaper is sizable for small, medium, and large by using the snaps on the front.  There are hip snaps to prevent any possible leaks around the legs.  This helps with the really skinny babies.  There are overlapping waist tabs for the really tiny babies.  The outer layer is all PUL to help keep the wetness inside.  The inside is a layer of super soft fleece.  Their diapers include a 3 layer microfiber insert.  And to complete the adorable look you can now get some soft and stretchy leg warmers to match your diaper.  The leg warmers are made from cotton, fits most sizes, and best of all match your favorite Lotus Bumz prints.

    The cloth diaper and matching leg warmers I received were in an elephant print.  The print is adorable with blue, grey, and white elephants.  The elephants are in all directions on the diaper and the leg warmers.  We used the diaper a few different times and everytime it held up well.  We had no leaks.  The inner fleece is so super soft.  The diaper fit well and was easy to adjust.  The leg warmers are soft and stretchy, they fit Evan well.  He looks so cute with his diaper and matching leg warmers.  I love that the leg warmers can be used alone with the diaper or under shorts when it is cold in the mornings, but warmer later.  For girls these would be so cute under skirts and dresses. Lotus Bumz cloth diapers come in many cute prints.  I am loving the new mustache diaper and matching leg warmers.

     Thank you to Lotus Bumz for sponsoring this review.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. . disclosure

Choose the HoneyBaked Ham Store for Easter Plus $50 GC Giveaway (20 winners ) #HoneyBakedEaster #Sponsored

I was provided a gift certificate in order to provide an honest review.

     So Easter is coming soon.  This year is going to quick already.  Easter has not usually been a huge holiday for my family.  We have always celebrated and enjoyed being with family, but not a big dinner.  We usually do a little something light and just enjoy the weather and being with family.  My husbands family is about the same.  Jayden's first Easter we all got together at the park and had a picnic.  It was such a nice spring day with family.  We usually pick something simple.  Last year we went to my brother in laws house and had an Easter egg hunt and some light food.  It was just a fun day for the kids.  So while planning for this years Easter we will continue to look at something casual and fun.  During the Super Bowl you might remember that I got a great sandwich for the event from the HoneyBaked Ham store.  It was so yummy that I thought it would be great to check them out again.

 

     The first thing I did was check out the website to see what more they had.  I looked at possibly getting one of their delicious HoneyBaked hams or Turkey Breasts.  I was surprised with all the options.  I figured you just get a ham or a turkey breast.  But you can get a whole spread with both ham and turkey breast plus sides, just the Ham and Turkey Breast, or each individually with sides.  They even come beautifully garnished and ready to serve.  But since my family is a little more casual I decided to keep looking.  There are so many options like a meat and cheese tray, wraps, sandwiches, salads, and more.  Since it is not Easter yet I wanted to try something out with just my immediate family.  I finally decided to get a salad.  My family all loves salad and with it being spring I though something light would be perfect.  But as I looked at the desserts I knew I had to get a sampler platter too.  My boys are dessert obsessed.

     Once I made my decision I thought that since I called my order in last time that this time I would do it all online and go from there.  I entered all my information online.  I was able to choose which salad dressing I wanted.  The salads are usually paired with the HoneyBaked Ham signature Honey Mustard dressing, but I'm not a mustard fan.  So I choose to switch to ranch.  I decided on a time and location for pick up and sent in my order.

     When it was time I drove up to the HoneyBaked Ham store in Glendale, not far from home.  When I walked in and gave my name they had my order waiting for me.  They quickly processed my order.  She opened the box to show me all that came with my order and to be sure it was correct.  It was of course.  I really like that they add plates, napkins, and tongs for serving.  The presentation of the salad and the dessert tray was great.  Then she offered to carry the box to my car for me since I had Evan.  It was really nice that they would go that extra bit just to help.

     I could not wait for dinner as we were going to have the salad.  It was just as good as it looked.  I could not believe how much chicken it had.  The lettuce was fresh and crisp, the tomatoes fresh and firm, and everything was perfect.  I immediately packed a bowl for my lunch the next day.  After dinner we tried the desert tray.  Jayden of course had to try the chocolate cheesecake and Evan picked a chocolate chip cookie.  And since I had to share with you of course I tried it all.  It was all fresh and so tasty.

     So now when we plan our Easter dinner I am keeping the HoneyBaked Ham store in mind for sure.  The location is so close to home, the food is always great, and the service is awesome.

Check out these limited-time offers to help with planning your Easter Dinner:

• $5 off Any Size Half/Whole Ham
• $3 off Any Size Quarter Ham
• $2 off Sliced and Glazed Whole Turkey
• $1 off Any 2 Frozen Sides
• $3 off 3 Frozen Sides

Offers valid only at:

Participating Retail Locations: Forestville, Silver Spring, Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Fields Ertel, Beechmont, Kenwood, Colerain, Florence, Salem, Centerville, Sawmill Road, McNaughten, Louisville, Lexington, Fern Creek, Glendale, Paradise Valley, Superstition, Tolleson, Chandler, Tucson East, Tucson North, Overland Park, Independence, Barry Road, Norristown, Parma, Willoughby, Rocky River, Strongsville, Maple Heights, Canton, Fairlawn, Chapel Hill and Boardman.

Win it: 20 people will win a $50 Gift Certificate to the HoneyBaked Ham Store.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thank you to the HoneyBaked Ham Store for sponsoring this post & giveaway

 I was provided a gift certificate in order to provide an honest review. I was not compensated in any way. All thoughts and opinions are my own and not influenced. disclosure

Peter Som Watch & Shop Google Hangout #Sponsored #PeterSomForKohls #MC

I participated in a campaign for Mom Central Consulting on behalf of Kohl’s. I received a gift card as a thank you for participating

     I love shopping at Kohl's.  I'm so happy I have one close by my home.  I like shopping for the latest fashion and trends.  I recently learned that Kohl's has partnered with American Fashion Designer Peter Som.  The exclusive DesigNation collection is inspired by beautiful St. Barths and features bold colors and beautiful patterns in skirts, dresses, and separates.  You can be one of the first to ship the Peter Som for DesigNatio line, just RSVP to Kohl's Peter Som Watch Shop Google Hangout on April 4th at 12:00 PM ET.  Peter Som will be talking with fashion bloggers and giving a look at some pieces of his collection.  Hoping I can make it, how about you, want to hangout?

Peppa Pig My Birthday Party DVD and Plush Giveaway

 I was provided the below mentioned products in order to provide an honest review
33Celebrate the Global Sensation Peppa Pig In the All-New

“PEPPA PIG: MY BIRTHDAY PARTY”

Available Nationwide on DVD

March 18, 2014 from Entertainment One

First-Ever, Retail-Wide DVD Release

Features 14 Animated Episodes Plus Educational Extras

Provides Fans with Instant Access

To the Fun-Filled Adventures of Peppa Pig

New York, NY, February 27, 2014 –  Spending time with the most loveable little piggy on the block will now be easier than ever when the animated preschool global sensation Peppa Pig, makes its’ first-ever U.S. retail-wide national DVD launch. The celebration begins March 18, 2014 with Entertainment One’s (eOne’s) release of Peppa Pig: My Birthday Party (SRP $14.98). Already a longtime UK phenomenon (#1 Pre-school property three years running), this 80 minute, fun-filled DVD is sure to capture the hearts of parents and little ones alike with the undeniable charm and fun disposition of the adorable Peppa.

Airing daily on Nick Jr., Peppa Pig follows the hilarious adventures of Peppa, a loveable little piggy, her family and all of her animal friends, including Suzy Sheep, Pedro Pony, Danny Dog and more.  Peppa loves playing games, dressing up, visiting exciting places and making new friends, but her absolute favorite thing is jumping up and down in muddy puddles!

Peppa’s adventures are filled with wholesome entertainment the entire family can enjoy and always end happily with loud snorts of laughter. Recommended for ages 2-7, Peppa Pig: My Birthday Party features themes that kids can relate to and reinforces strong values such as family, friendship, trust and humor. 

Peppa Pig: My Birthday Party DVD welcomes preschoolers to the charm and magic of Peppa’s world with All-New adventures featuring 14 fun-packed “Peppasodes” from the award-winning series, plus two fun educational extras, “Learn the Alphabet” and “Learn to Count.”  In the title episode, “My Birthday Party,” it’s Peppa’s birthday and all of her friends are invited to her party where Daddy Pig gets lots of laughs with his attempt at performing a magic show. Other episodes include an exciting boat race, a school play, a train adventure, a day at the beach, a costume party and more!

DVD Episodes:

“My Birthday Party,” “The Playground,” “Fancy Dress Party,” “Ballet Lesson,” “Dens,” “Grandpa Pig’s Boat,”, “Daddy Puts Up a Picture,” “School Play,” “Rebecca Rabbit,” “Tidying Up,” Grandpa’s Little Train,” “At the Beach,” “Frogs, Worms and Butterflies” and “Cleaning the Car.”

DVD Extras

“Learn the Alphabet” and “Learn to Count”

Peppa Pig: My Birthday Party will also be available March 18th as a digital download on iTunes and other digital platforms. 

About Peppa Pig

Airing on Nick Jr., Peppa Pig follows the adventures of Peppa, a loveable, exuberant little piggy who lives with her brother George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig.  Peppa Pig episodes are available on iTunes and DVD.  Peppa Pig toys and books are available at Toys ‘R Us.  For more information about Peppa Pig, please visit www.peppapig.com, 

     

     My boys love Peppa Pig.  They enjoy watching Peppa and her brother George in all their adventures.  They always laugh at Daddy Pig and all the funny things he does.  We had seen advertisements for this movie and they both were excited when we received it in the mail.  They were excited to watch it and sat to watch the whole thing at once.   They loved it.  Jayden didn't know which was his favorite episode, but he really did like the boat race.  And I think Evan liked the train episode.  He kept pointing at the television when it was on.  

Buy it:   Peppa Pig: My Birthday Party

Win it:  One (1) Arizona Mama reader will win Peppa Pig My Birthday Party on DVD and a Plush Pig

Enter in the Giveaway Tools form below! This giveaway will be open until 4/12  at 11:59PM (MST).  Open to US.

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Thank you to Lionsgate & HIT Entertainment for sponsoring this post & giveaway

 I was provided the above mentioned products in order to provide an honest review. I was not compensated in any way. All thoughts and opinions are my own and not influenced. disclosure