Wednesday, May 30, 2012

@Mailatale book review

My children love books - absolutely, positively love them.  We have all different types of books (look and find, chapter books, long stories, short stories, pop up books - you name it, we probably have it).  When I came across Mailatale on another blog a few months ago, I knew I needed to check out the service.



I contacted them to see if they were looking for more bloggers to work with, and when they responded YES I was thrilled.

The concept behind Mailatale is that you create an account, give them as much info as you can on the special child who will be receiving the packages, and pay. Then, once monthly, that special child will receive a package (addressed to them - awesome, I am an adult and still love getting mail - so kids are often MORE excited) and inside the package are 2-3 books (each month has a theme, so the books will go with that months theme).

Since I was doing a review, the process is slightly different but I filled out the form giving as much info as I could, and then last week when the mail arrived there was a package addressed to Julien. He was SO SO SO excited to have something just for him in the mail!

We received 2 books in this package, La Luna (a story about the moon and it's caretakers) and Click, Clack, Moo Cows That Type(which is the one Julien likes the best - he makes me read it 2-3 times a day).

The cost for the service is $28.95/mth (no shipping costs) - I know, when you look at the outset cost, it seems expensive. BUT - when you figure that books are expensive, and for that price your child will be receiving 2-3 books, it really works out in the end. You don't need to go and buy books at the store, because your child will automatically receive a shipment every month.

You can cancel your subscription at any time, there are no fee's or anything (although, you may have to pay for the last shipment if it has already been shipped out).

I highly recommend that you check out the service if there is any special child in your life that you would like to spoil with books - fostering a love of reading begins early! If you sign up before June 1st, you will receive 50% off your first month by using code MATSUMMER

Check them out on facebook and twitter

Monday, May 28, 2012

my little soccer star

Julien loves to kick around the soccer ball. I was worried that he wouldn't enjoy actually PLAYING soccer, so I didn't want to sign him up in a league.  I found a 5week program through our city recreation department, and today was his first day.


waiting for his class to start

     
waiting for the other kids to arrive

He had an absolute blast!  He was so excited to go play soccer, and he ran right on the field!

Crocs™ Eyewear review

I recently had the opportunity to test out the new line from Crocs™  - sunglasses!  They were very generous in sending me 2 pairs of sunglasses, as well as an inflatable beach ball (which my kids are having a BLAST playing with!)  Included were also 2 drawstring cases to carry the glasses in.



The  Crocs™  Sunglasses are available in both childrens and adult sizes - and have 100% UV protection! The adult lenses are Eco friendly polarized lenses made of cellulose, a natural and renewable resource.

The first thing I noticed about the sunglasses was the weight - they are super lightweight - which is awesome! They come with a jibbitz system - which allows you to mix and match the arms and temple hinges in different colours (pretty cool feature, especially for kids!) (you can watch a video on the system here

Crocs™ sunglasses can be purchased online, or in any  Crocs™  retail location(not including kiosks). Prices are as follows:

Adult sunglasses $39.99
Childrens sunglasses $19.99
Adult Hinge Packs $6.99
Kids temple packs $4.99


When I was wearing them, I noticed that they give great coverage - the shades are rather large - covering the top, front and peripheral (not something you always find with sunglasses). One thing, I have a small head and they fit slightly large, so they are loose on me. However, they fit my husband perfectly.

To connect with Crocs™  on facebook, twitter and their blog.

**Tales of Mommyhood received the above mentioned product in exchange for the review. All opinions expressed are honest and that of Tales of Mommyhood - your opinions/experiences may vary**

Sunday, May 27, 2012

May Grocery Challenge - update

With me having done my final grocery shop for the month of May, I am sad to update that  I did not meet my challenge. In fact, I stayed right about where I normally am.($624/mth = $124/week)

I am happy to report that I DID save a total of $97.00 for the month between coupons and price matching (which is equivalent to approx 15% of my total - meaning that on top of what I spent, I got 15% MORE than what I normally would!)

A few thoughts on why I did not achieve my target - when planning out the month, I forgot that with May falling hte way it did I would be doing FIVE grocery shops instead of FOUR.  We had company for dinner 3 nights - which is extra that I was NOT planning on (but great food and a great time had, so it was worth it) It has been hot - so treats were added in (a box of freezies - this should last us until end of June, or mid - July) and a box of drumsticks as well.

If I factor in these amounts, and minus them - I am still over budget, but only by approx.$110.00

Thanks for following along - I am still going to try and get the grocery bill down further than what I have been. My goal is to save approx 25-30% every month!

Saturday, May 26, 2012

#Wrap Trap - review and discount code from @onsgear

The Wrap Trap is a neat little tool used to help keep the filling inside of a wrap - it keeps the bottom of the wrap "trapped" together so that the kids hands don't need to. The Wrap Trap is made in Canada, and developed by a Canadian mom! They are made from hard plastic (BPA and Lead free), and were designed so little hands cannot open them.


I know with my kids, anytime I give them a wrap the first thing they do is unroll it and pull out the filling - the Wrap Trap makes that a little more difficult.  They recommend that you fill the wrap, roll it, trap each end and then cut in the middle.  This worked well for us.

They are available in 2 different sets (cat/frog or panda/hippo). As the child eats, they have the eye's/mouth of the animal looking at them!

The retail price is $8.50, and can be purchased online at www.onsgear.com- where you will find their other innovative products as well.

ONS GEAR is offering my readers a discount code, valid until July 31, 2012 for 10% off - just enter WrapMom (case sensitive) at checkout!

Thursday, May 24, 2012

sometimes being a mom is difficult

A few months ago I met with our family doctor to discuss Julien. No matter how many hours he sleeps, he never seems rested. He always yawns and even though he can be full of energy, you can tell he is fatigued.  She suggested it could be his iron levels, and gave me a requisition for blood work.

I will admit that I have put off getting it done because of his fear of needles. However, the dentist suggested that we see an ENT for possibly enlarged adenoids or tonsils, and I know that my doctor will want to rule out his iron levels as the culprit first - so I decided that today was the day.

Needles don't bother me, never have. I am fascinated by blood work and always watch them stick the needle and the blood going into the vial.....we have never made a big deal about needles, but he is young and thinks they hurt.

I didn't give him much prep before we went. They had him sit on my lap and I asked him to look at the emergency lights on the wall....the lady took a little while getting everything ready, and JUST as she was about to put the needle in, Julien looked her way and freaked out.  I had to trap his legs between mine and pin his left arm against my body and hold him while he screamed and cried and tried to get loose...the poor thing. I felt like such a horrible mom to be torturing him that way - but we needed to get it done.  When it was over, he calmed down relatively quickly and we went to the drugstore in the plaza and got an ice cream sandwich. He was quite happy to tell his dad that he got his "blood checked" and that he cried during it....

Now, I really hope that we can avoid any more blood work until he is MUCH older....

Nellie's All Natural Laundry Soda



When I started using cloth diapers on my son, I needed to find a natural detergent to use with them.  I found Nellie's All Natural Laundry Soda and gave it a try. A year later, I am still using it!  Nellie's Laundry Soda is hypoallergenic, and will leave your clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh - no chemicals needed!  You can connect with Nellie's All Natural on facebook or twitter- feel free to tell them I sent you (not necessary, but always nice!) The Laundry Soda is very concentrated, so 1 scoop is all that is needed.

In addition to Laundry Soda, they have a number of other products including Dishwasher nuggets, dryer balls, towels and more! Visit the website to learn more.

Nellie's All Natural has sent me a 50 load bag of laundry soda to use, and they want to offer one of my readers the same item!  To enter is simple, you can use the rafflecopter form below!


and so it begins

Last week I wrote about my new venture - becoming an Independent Norwex Consultant! This week, it is reality.

My Norwex Independent consultant kit arrived yesterday. It is chock full of information regarding the products, hosting parties, hostess specials and ideas how to grow your business!

I was like a kid waiting for their birthday party to begin while I very patiently  anxiously awaited the mail delivery!  FedEx delivered the package and I dove in!

I am happy to say that there is an online party taking place right now, if you would like to participate send me an email and I will be happy to discuss it with you!

If you would like information on the products, to host your own party (online parties are great because your guests can be anywhere that Norwex conducts business in - all across the world - you also don't have to try and co-ordinate schedules as they run for a few days and people can shop at their convenience online!) or if you would like to learn how to help others save time and money by becoming a Norwex Independent Consultant yourself I can answer those questions for you!

Alternatively, should you have any questions regarding the products or business you can leave a comment here and I will gladly answer!

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Kids Email

Lets face it, the internet is a great resource for information and for staying connected. However, it also opens up a whole new world in terms of predators.  What if I told you that there was an email service for kids that offers parental controls?

I recently had the chance to test out a service geared for parents and kids - it is a kids email service. You register, add your child and create an email account for them.  Once the account is created, there are parental control settings that you can change.



You can limit sending and receiving to the contact list only (which you would control); you can have it set so that all incoming and outgoing messages also go to YOUR inbox - so you can see what is being said (yes, there are privacy issues with this, but depending on the age of your child, it might be a good idea); you can limit it so that pictures cannot be received, bad words are filtered out etc.

There are 3 login options, one for the parent (which gives all the parental control features)  one for the child (which would be like logging in to a regular email account), or one for a teen - you can personalize them to suit the age group they fall into.

I sent myself an email (from Julien's account) and immediately there was a notification in my inbox that there was an outgoing message from him to someone, and it included the message.

It was relatively easy to use, and the kids login feature offers a child friendly design as well.  If you have children between the ages of 6 and 13, I highly recommend you check out this service!

You also have the option to add a tagline to the bottom of the email, which states that the email has originated from a child.

You can sign up for a free 30 day trial, pay month to month or a yearly subscription.  A small cost for piece of mind that your children are safe.


*Tales of Mommyhood received compensation for testing out this service, however all opinons are honest. Your opinion and experience may vary*

the stuff memories are made of

Back before children - hubby and I spent most of our time on the couch watching tv.  That was how we spent our evenings, and most weekend days. We often had company on weekend evenings for drinks or cards, but if not - we would most likely be watching a movie.

Fast forward to 2 kids later and we spend the majority of nice days outside. A few weeks ago, one of the first beautiful weekends we had, we were all out on the back deck - Julien was playing on his play structure, and Kyle was playing with the water table. It hit me how much "life" was missed before.  We spent so much time cooped up in the house that we missed out on great opportunities outside.

I mentioned to my hubby how much time we wasted, and that being outside with the boys was better than sitting inside on the couch any day. He agreed and I just can't help but think about all the great memories we are helping to create with our boys. All the family time we have together, exercising our bodies and minds.

My newest venture



This week, I decided to do something new. Something I never thought I would do - something that is completely out of my comfort zone.

I became a Norwex Independent Consultant; shy little me that almost completely shuts down when faced with public speaking; who tends to sit in the corner not speaking when I am in a situation with people I don't know.  I am hoping that it goes well - I am amazed with the product.  I was very skeptical when I first found out about it, and when I had the opportunity to try out one of the enviro cloths, I was sold.

Since having my children, I have become more aware of how many chemicals are in the house. I hate to use them when the kids are around, because I don't want them breathing them in. I don't want them touching the tables or windows after I have cleaned (one because it completely undoes the work I put in, and second, because the chemicals can be absorbed through the skin).

When I found out that I could clean my house with using just water, I was intrigued - and very happy.  If you would like to learn more about the Norwex product, feel free to leave a comment or send me an email and we can discuss what products would suit your needs!  If you would like to take a look at the products offered, you can visit my Norwex Independent Consultant Website 

Friday, May 18, 2012

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Sex education

There is a museum exhibit opening soon regarding sex - there has been quite the uproar about it from parents - and I don't understand it.  Here is a link to the article.

As I said - I don't understand the uproar. The museum has put age restrictions in place for this, and to be honest - by the time they are 16 (the age for unaccompanied children) they already KNOW a lot of this stuff. Whether they have learnt it from their parents, their teachers in class, or their friends is the question.

If my kids were 12, I would be heading down there as soon as possible to give them a chance to learn more.

Sex is a natural part of life - heck, without it MOST of us wouldn't be here.  I grew up in a very open household, where my mother answered our questions honestly. She gave age appropriate answers, and we were always encouraged to ask questions if we had any.

I learnt about menstruation at a very young age - much younger than most.  My friends and I ended up talking about it after our sex ed class in Grade 5 - and then came to school the next day and told me that their moms told them they weren't allowed to talk to me about it - and that I lied. Girls/women didn't bleed from their genitals monthly, and they didn't know why I would say something like that.

I couldn't understand why their mothers would tell them that (heck, we had JUST learnt about it in sex-ed - it wasn't like I came to school spewing all this stuff out of nowhere). I can't imagine a mom actually LYING about it - take the opportunity to educate them so that WHEN they get their first period they won't think they are dying.

I also believe that sex education is more than just about sex. It needs to be an open dialogue between parents and children from the time they are born - and this begins with the parent. When your teaching children their body parts - use the proper names. Penis, Scrotum, Vulva, Vagina, Bum. There is nothing wrong with the proper names, and if people used them more there wouldn't be such a stigma or embarassment about them. You don't call a nose a winkle do you? Penis - Vagina - I can say it without embarassment.  Kids explore their bodies - pretty much every diaper change Kyle grabs his penis - so I tell him what it is called, along with his scrotum and I did the same with Julien.  The boys are practically attached to me as I am going to the bathroom - they know that I don't have a penis, they know that I have a period (they don't understand yet, but why would I lie to them - when I was asked what it was I simply replied that mommies get what is called a period and it helps them to have a baby when the time is right - simple answer, he moved on)

Start young - really - it is easy.  The more you talk about it in daily life, the easier it is. If you wait until you think they are ready to have "the talk" - not only is it embarassing for them and you - you will most likely be too late.

Wednesday, May 16, 2012

#SavorySummer Giveaway!

Savory Summer



Welcome to the 2012 Savory Summer blog hop/giveaway! I am partnering with Measuring Flower and Graphoniac, and a number of other blogs to bring you great food or food-related prizes (each worth at least $25.00) - just in time for patio season!



Our incredible grand prize sponsors for this decadent event are Nostalgia Electrics and Ella's Kitchen, who are offering prizes worth over $100 each! You can enter to win one or both grand prizes HERE.

Thanks to Lisa Hachey at Sugars Sweet Treats and Lisa Casselman of Velata for sponsoring the TWO giveaways on Tales of Mommyhood!



Sugars Sweet Treats has kindly donated the cookbook "Bake Something Great" by Jill Snyder - use the rafflecopter form below to enter for your chance to win! (ARV$29.95)


And Lisa at Velata is very generously offering up a fondue pot and chocolate of the winners choice (ARV$58.00)!

 Please use the rafflecopter form below to enter! Giveaways are open to US and Canada, and will end at 11.59pm on May 30th and don't forget to check out all the other blogs participating below!

Disclosure: Facebook is in no way affiliated with the Savory Summer event, its hosts, its sponsors, or its participating bloggers. The hosts (Measuring Flower and Graphoniac) are not responsible for event sponsors that do not fulfill their prizes. Tales of Mommyhood is not responsible for sponsors that do not fulfill their prizes

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

I really need a housekeeper....


I have posted numerous times before about my lack of organization and lack of motivation to clean the house. It’s not that I am lazy, I just find it very frustrating to get everything cleaned and tidied, and then I turn around and see that my children have un-done all my hard work. This is where I wish I had a maid service that would come in and do it all for me. At least that way I wouldn’t see fingerprints returning immediately after cleaning windows and tables!

Oh how I wish that I could go out and enjoy the day with my children and come home to a sparkly clean home....even though I know it would just get cluttered and messy again within hours - I would know that the same clean house would reappear the following week, and again and again and again.  Unfortunately – it isn’t possible for us at the moment. So for now, I will just take my mother up on her help (I am really lucky, I know…..she loves to clean – I didn’t inherit that trait from her)



*I was compensated for this post - all opinions are my own and yours may vary*

Monday, May 14, 2012

The Great Mystery Box Giveaway


The Great Mystery Boxes Giveaway!

Do you like surprise gifts? I do - and if you do to - then you need to keep reading to learn how to enter to win one of the great prizes!

Welcome to The Great Mystery Box Giveaway! Brought to you by your hosts: Did You Know Canada, The Knit Wit by Shair, Maple Leaf Mommy and Talking Momcents. These 4 awesome bloggers have invited me to help spread the word on the wonderful giveaway they are offering!

Now's your chance to win one of four themed boxes, filled with awesome goodies and mysterious prizes! Our four hosts have pooled together to collect over ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS in prizes!! These goodies have been split up into four themed mystery boxes,with a little something for everyone....

The four themed Mystery Boxes are:
Baby - think new born up to year. (estimated value $200)
Kids - toys, clothes and other assorted treasures. (estimated value $220)
Health & Beauty - lotions, potions and other related goodies. (estimated value $330)
Box of Intrigue - Mystery, Suspense, Intrigue! (estimated value $310)



WIN IT


Four lucky Canadians are going to win some totally fabulous products. 
Four winners will be drawn, each will receive one of the mystery boxes.
All of the prizes included in the mystery boxes are brand new.
The total estimated prize value is just over $1060.
This giveaway is open to Canada only.

Dads Deserve to be Healthy with @AdultEssentials #Giveaway

I was recently sent 2 bottles of Adult Essentials (B-complex and Adult Essentials Omega-3) gummies - for your chance to win, keep reading and fill out the rafflecopter form below!

The men in our lives deserve to be as healthy as they can be and Adult Essentials can help them do that! Adult Essentials are pectin based gummy vitamins that are:
  • gluten free, nut free, dairy free
  • approved by Health Canada
  • made with natural flavours and colours
  • delicious
Adult Essentials along with Multi-Testing Mommy and a group of amazing and influential bloggers are co-hosting a Dads Deserve to be Healthy Giveaway to celebrate Dads in Canada being healthy. Would you like to enter to win a handsome monogramed black gym bag FULL of Adult Essentials for that important Dad in your life? Enter the Rafflecopter Form below. Giveaway is open to Canadian Residents only and ends on June 17th 12:01AM.

a Rafflecopter giveaway Adult Essentials are available online at Well.ca and at most Rexall Pharma Plus, Metro, Sobeys, Lowblaws/Real Canadian Super Stores, London Drugs and now at Shoppers Drugmart. To learn more about Adult Essentials, feel free to visit them: Adult Essentials Website @AdultEssentials on Twitter Adult Essentials on Facebook

Money Saving Monay - Laundry

Money Saving Monday is back! Today we will talk a bit about how to save money on laundry and dishwashing.

First, start washing your clothes in cold water -  that simple switch can start saving you a little money.

Next, air dry - you can either hang your items outside in the sun (which acts as a stain remover too - not sure why, but the direct sunlight can help remove hard to get out stains - this is how I get stains out of my sons poopy cloth diapers, the rays also have antibacterial properties in them too) if you don't want to hang them outside, you can also set up a drying rack in your house. The clothes take a little longer, and you don't have the effect of the suns rays - but it works.

third - do the majority of your laundry after 7pm, or on weekends (if your hydro company utilizes time of use rates - these are the cheaper times)

fourth - if your using your dryer, try and do a few loads back to back - saves energy because the dryer doesn't cool all the way down and have to start back from the beginning!

Use the timer on your dishwasher and set it to start after 7pm - cheapest time to run appliances

Sunday, May 13, 2012

Speroway #Raise money for Haiti - contest!


Speroway (formerly Feed the Children - Canada) is involved in a number of different projects, all around the world. Their motto is "delivering hope for needy children" and they are a registered Canadian charity - to learn more about any of the projects they have on the go, check here

With the recent name change to Speroway they have a brand new website and facebook page and to help them promote the changes - they are having a contest! The contest is called "Raise money for Haiti" and is to help them raise awareness of all the work they do, and increase money donated to help them do this. At the moment, they are building a medical clinic in Haiti.

The grand-prize gift basket includes:

-iPad 3 (16 GB)
-$500 WaySpa
  Package for Two
-4 Cineplex Night Out
  Gift Packs
-2 Big Kaboodle Combo
 Gift Certificates from
 Mabel’s Labels

There is no purchase necessary to enter, and the contest is open to Canadian residents, 18+ (excluding Quebec) for a full list of rules/regulations click here. The contest runs from April 26, 2012 until 5:00pm EST, June 22, 2012.

The contest is a share and win contest - once you have entered, share your PURL with others and increase your chances of winning! There are 3 easy share buttons to use (twitter, facebook and email)

Now - head on over and enter the Speroway Raise money for Haiti Contest - good luck! I would love for one of my readers to win this!

Here is a link to the full contest rules and regulations - it is open to Canadian residents who have reached the age of majority (excluding Quebec)

*Tales of Mommyhood was compensated for this post and holds no responsibility in regards to the contest- as always, opinions expressed are that of Tales of Mommyhood and your experience my vary*

Friday, May 11, 2012

May Grocery Challenge - update

This was my 2nd week for my May grocery challenge - and I have a feeling I will not be meeting my goal of $400.00.

My shop today should last until next friday, but that means that I have $129.00 left for the last 2 weeks. It is doable - but it will be tight. This week I spent $86.00 - but my total value of product was $108.00 - so I saved $22.00 with price matching and coupons!

Wish me luck for the coming weeks

Before I was a mom

with Mothers Day approaching, I thought I would post about my life before I was a mom

Before I was a mom:

- I didn't have anyone relying on me for every little thing;
- I could pretty much come and go as I pleased, without having to schedule around feedings and nap/sleep times
- I could sleep in whenever I wanted
- I could stay in bed when I was sick
- I could say whatever I wanted without worrying about my child repeating it
- I never knew the joy that a laugh could bring
- I didn't know the sadness of leaving your child in hospital, and going home without them
- I had never stayed up late, worrying about a sick child
- I never understood the effect of seeing your child in pain, hurt or sick has on a parent
- I didn't know the emotions that go with holding your child, or the complete and utter amazement at nourishing them from my body
- I didn't know the joy of holding a sleeping child, or comforting them when they are sad/sick/upset
- I had never witnessed the discovery of childhood - watching a butterfly, seeing the flowers and being amazed at puddle jumping
- I didn't get to experience the joy of watching a child walk for the first time, talk for the first time
- I didn't get to experience snotty, dirty faced hugs and kisses
- I didn't know what loving a child was

and most of all - before I was a mom I didn't know that I could love someone as much as I love Julien and Kyle - you boys make my world complete - and I cannot imagine my life without you. Thank you for loving me and teaching me new things everyday!

my 2 wonderful boys

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Are you mom enough?

Have you seen the Time magazine cover, with the caption "Are you Mom enough?"  It has sparked a large debate.



Personally, I do NOT like the picture - it bothers me. Not because I am against extended breastfeeding - because I am not. I am very much PRO extended breastfeeding. Kyle is almost 21 mths and still nurses occasionally - I thought we were done, but it must have just been a nursing strike. Sometimes he nurses 1x day, other days he doesn't nurse at all - I am letting him lead the way.

Before I had kids, I really did think that by 12mths, kids should be weaned. It just seemed WRONG that a child nurse longer than that. Then I got pregnant, and started to research and found out all the pros (for mother AND child) in regards to nursing and extended nursing. While I personally won't continue nursing until he is 4 years old ( I imagine I will lead the weaning process if he is still nursing at 2.5) but that doesn't mean I think it is wrong for others.

I also don't have anything against public nursing - however you choose to feed your child is a personal choice, and should be accepted. Why is it ok to bottle feed a baby in public, but not by breast? Really - you hardly see anything and there are many low cut, revealing shirts that show more boob than a mom nursing her baby. I have nursed in almost every public situation you can imagine - in an airport, on a plane, in the middle of Disney World - heck, I even threw him on the boob at church in the middle of his Christening because he was hungry - and you know what - no one even knew until I told them.

I also don't have problems with pictures - I had nursing photo's taken of Kyle and I - and I will gladly post them and share them with people - they are on the blog, and I will post one below.




Now that I have had my say - I will get back to the picture. When I look at this picture - it makes me feel like it was taken to bait people. It makes me feel that this scenario is about daring people to comment on it, instead of the bond/nutrition aspect for mother and child. It reminds me of a child pulling a chair up to the counter to watch their parent cook - and does not properly portray a mother/child nursing relationship.

As for the caption of the photo - that gets me too. Again, I think it is there to spark debate - and it has done that. It hasn't even hit shelves yet and people are outraged over it.  I don't like the caption because women that attempted to breastfeed but were unable to may feel bad about themselves - and they shouldn't. I think it is putting women that chose NOT to breastfeed in a bad light. It doesn't matter how your child is fed - as long as they have the love of their family. Bottle/Breast/Formula - shouldn't make a difference.

And, lastly - this is just another way that the media gets in there to help parents judge other parents.

Nature Clean Products - Review

I was recently sent a very nice package from Nature Clean to test out and review with my family. In the package was shampoo, conditioner, air freshener, body soap and baby wipes from the treehouse line!

Nature Clean is a Canadian company that has been around since 1963. All Nature Clean products are non-toxic and biodegradable and created from naturally derived ingredients!  They have a number of different lines (from household cleaners to personal care)



I have been using the shampoo and conditioner for myself the last 3 weeks - and am happy to report that my hair feels great. It is shiny, soft and CLEAN!  The bar soap has been used by me and both the boys and none of us have flared up with our eczema - it is extremely gentle. The soap doesn't have any flowery fragrances to it - just a clean scent!

I used the baby wipes on Kyle and was really pleased with them. They don't have a greasy feel to them - and they have just the right amount of moisture level to clean a dirty bum.  They are soft and gentle, and have not irritated his sensitive skin at all. We went through the entire package with no issues!

The air freshener I have used to add a clean scent to our rooms - again, there is no chemical, flowery fragrance to it - but it does leave a  fresh smell to the rooms!

Nature Clean has paired up with Treehouse to create a kids line that is free from ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), sodium lauryl ether sulphate/sodium laureth sulphate (SLES), propylene glycol (PEG), parabens, petroleum ingredients, synthetic perfumes and dyes.

Nature Clean products can be found at participating retailers including Walmart and Loblaws - for more retailers, check here - and you can connect with them on facebook and twitter

*the above items were provided free of charge in exchange for my review; all opinions stated belong to Tales of Mommyhood and your opinion/experience may vary*

uKnowKids - giveaway

With all the talk of cyber bullying, sex offenders luring children, and inappropriate content for kids happening online - wouldn't you like a service that offers parental monitoring? Helping to keep your kids safe from predators?
uKnowKids is an invite only site that offers a parental monitoring service - not only on a home computer or laptop, but also on mobile phones. The uKnowKids essential service is free OR they have uKnowKids premiere, which is $9.95/mth. There is no contract, and you are free to downgrade to the essential service at anytime.

uKnowKids is offering ONE of my readers a 1 year subscription ($120.00 value) for free!


*This was a sponsored post and Tales of Mommyhood received compensation for it; Tales of Mommyhood is not responsible should the sponsor change the prize or the service is not as you expected it to be*

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Sponsor Spotlight - Sugars Sweet Treats



My friend Lisa runs Sugars Sweet Treats - she makes delicious cakes, cupcakes, cake pops and truffles  - and is up to trying new things if needed!

If your looking for somewhere to purchase baked goods - you have found it! You can connect with Sugars Sweet Treats on Facebook and Twitter!

Monday, May 7, 2012

Patio Lanterns Giveaway Hop - Baby Banz

The Patio Lanterns Blog Hop Giveaway Event has arrived and will run from now until May 13th midnight where we will celebrate Mother's Day and Days on the patio. After you enter my giveaway, head over to the hosts This Lil Piglet, Tales of a Ranting Ginger and Sober Julie combined giveaways with over $475 in prizes and then make sure to click on all the participating blogs in the linky below to enter their giveaways too.
Win some great prizes for Mother's Day!
**This Lil Piglet, Tales of a Ranting Ginger, Sober Julie and the Patio Lanterns Event participating Bloggers are not responsible for sponsors that do not fulfill their prizes.**
Here at Tales of Mommyhood, Baby Banz has very kindly donated a prize for my readers!!!!

We all know how important sun safety is now, and protecting our kids from the Suns harmful UV rays is always top priority for me. I don't want to keep them from outdoor play, but being sun smart is definitely a necessity.  Baby Banz has a number of items to help with sun protection. I had the pleasure of reviewing the  Banz Sunscreen Travel Kit last year - you can check out my thoughts on it!
Baby Banz will supply the winner of this giveaway (USA only) with a combo pack (bucket sunhat and banz sunglasses) in the colour of their choice (provided it is in stock).


To enter, use the rafflecopter form below (giveaway open to the United States only) and don't forget to visit the rest of the blogs below to enter their giveaways!

*the prize is being provided by Baby Banz free of charge; Tales of Mommyhood is not responsible should there be any changes in the prize provided by the sponsor and cannot be held liable should it not meet the expectations of the winner*



Money Saving Monday - tips at home

Another money saving post.

Keep your thermostat set 1 or 2 degrees LESS than normal in the winter, and 1 or 2 degrees HIGHER in the summer.  Most people don't notice the difference of 1 degree, and it really can help you save money. We keep our furnace at 18 degrees celsius most of the winter (we wear a sweater and socks) - if it is particularly damp or we are sick then we will raise it - but we generally lower it as soon as possible.

In the summer, we try and stick to around 23 degrees - if it is SUPER humid, then we will put it down to 21, but we really try not to. There are many days where I actually turn it off - if it gets too hard to take, I can always turn it back!

Also - we try our best to leave the furnace off until after thanksgiving (2nd weekend of October) - we almost made it to Halloween this year - but we did have a week or so in November that we were able to turn it off.

Also - look into Time of Use rates with your hydro company. Ours has a 3 tier charge system - 7pm-7am is off peak, meaning it is the cheapest time to use electricity; 7am-11am and 5pm-7pm are mid-peak hours; 11am - 5pm are on peak (meaning highest charge)


Sunday, May 6, 2012

Sponsor Spotlight - Velata



Lisa Casselman is a Velata Indendant Consultant! Velata falls under the Scentsy company, and they sell Fondue warmers and chocolate!

Velata is a new venture, they just launched on May 1st! If you are interested in finding out more about the products, hosting a party or becoming a consultant - contact Lisa through her website or facebook!

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

#GreenVision

#GreenVision Twitter party is TONIGHT at 9pm EST - will you be there?

Join @MultiTesting Mom and @MandyNorwex for some great conversation and maybe even a prize or 2. To be eligible for prizes, head over to Multi-Testing Mommy and fill out the rafflecopter form!

May grocery challenge

Over the last few months I have been trying to save money at the grocery store. So far, my out of pocket expenses haven't come down TOO much, but by using coupons and price matching, I have been able to spend (roughly) the same amount of money but get MORE product.

Yesterday, May 1st I gave myself a challenge. I am going to try and spend $400.00 or LESS in the month of May on groceries. This is for a family of 4, with 1 child in diapers.  I will not be breaking it to a weekly amount as I will be doing a costco run for our meat and that can add up.

I have started an excel spreadsheet to keep track of everything - and will be updating weekly - please wish me luck!



Wordless Wednesday

what could be more fun than making noise?

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

#CANsnack - Wholly Guacamole and Beanitos Chips

The weather is getting nicer, bbq's and patio parties will be happening soon - and what better way to start off the season than some Wholly Guacamole and Beanitos Chips?



Wholly Guacamole and Beanitos Chips want to help us Canadians celebrate Victoria Day weekend (also known as May 2-4).  They have supplied me with a case of Beanitos Chips and a package from Wholly Guacamole which consisted of a reusable shopping bag, avocado stress ball, pencil, chip clip, bracelet and FOUR coupons for Wholly Guacamole product.

Beanitos Nutrition Information: New Beanitos Single-Serves - A New Healthy To-Go Snack - 6 g Protein & 6 g Fiber
- New Single-Serve Size 1.25 oz,
- 175 Calories
- 6 g Protein & 6 g Fiber
- Gluten-free & Non-GMO
- Child-friendly flavors: BBQ & Cheddar Cheese
- Now in 12,000 stores nation-wide, including Whole Foods, Krogers & Safeway
– Beanitos have just recently come to Canada –– find us at select Horizon, Sobeys and Longo's

Wholly Guacamole Classic Nutritional Information:
- All natural ingredients
- Preservative and Additive Free
- Gluten Free & Non-GMO
- Kosher Certified


When my chips arrived, I indulged immediately. My favorite are the Black Bean Chipotle BBQ flavour, but the other flavours are also good (black bean chips, pinto bean and flax, black bean chipotle bbq and pinto bean and flax cheddar cheese) - I had to be very disciplined in NOT eating them all before getting out and picking up my salsa and guac!

When my Wholly coupons arrived - I packed up the boys and headed off to the Super Walmart to buy some! I was super excited to try it out - and I was not disappointed!  I  used 3 of the coupons today (salsa, classic guacamole and the spicy guacamole).

As soon as we got home I grabbed a bag of chips and dove into the salsa - so good. I am a dipper - so having something to eat with the chips was wonderful.  I then opened the regular guac and topped some of the chips - my first time having guacamole, and I was pretty happy with it. I love avocados so I wasn't surprised that I would like the guac!

Now - here is YOUR chance to win! Beanitos will send the ONE lucky winner a case of chips to try out ($35.00 value) and Wholly Guacamole will send you a package similar to what I received ($25.00 value)
This giveaway is open to Canada and US - just use the rafflecopter form below for your chance to win!

*I was provided with the product free of charge in exchange for hosting this giveaway. The opinions stated belong to Tales of Mommyhood; your opinion/experience may vary*

Sponsor Spotlight - Baby Banz

Just a quick post to thank Baby Banz as they are sponsoring my prize for the Patio Lanterns Giveaway!

About Baby Banz (taken from the website)

The Baby Banz Inc. journey began in 2001 in Australia, one of the harshest UV climates in the world. One Australian's search for a proper pair of 'sunnies' for his infant son, forced him to take action, leading to the inevitable development of the now popular Baby Banz sunglasses.

Baby Banz sells its products nationwide in a variety of outlets including optical and specialty baby stores. Baby Banz has not only made a name for itself in Australia, but across the globe as well. Baby Banz products can be found in countries such as United States of America, South Africa, Japan, Germany, Switzerland, England and New Zealand.

In an ever deteriorating UV climate, Baby Banz continues its journey, striving to preserve the sensitive eyes and precious skin of generations of little ones to come.

Baby Banz Inc. Australian headquarters are based in Perth WA with corporate offices in the United States of America and England.

Not only do they sell sunglasses, but all sorts of sun protection gear - sunhats, swimwear and beach tents as well! Head on over to their website to see what they are all about and check back in here at Tales of Mommyhood on May 7th for your chance to win a great prize from them!