Mamalicious Maria - Food, fun, fashion and finds for Moms and the men who love them.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Monday, December 27, 2010
Snow Mountain is a fantastic family outing
It's "snow" lie...Snow Mountain is one of the best winter attractions in Atlanta. (Sorry for the pun.) Atlanta’s Stone Mountain Park has transformed into a winter wonderland with Snow Mountain, Atlanta's only snow park. My family got a chance to check it out this month and we absolutely loved it!
Height/weight requirements for each activitiy are as follows:
•Minimum height for Avalanche Alley: 36 inches
•Minimum height for Tube Runners: 42 inches
•Maximum weight for Avalanche Alley: 1,000lbs (max of 6 riders)
•Maximum weight for Tube Runners: 300 lbs
When to go: Snow Mountain is open weekends (and certain holidays) through March 6, 2011. It is open all day this week through January 3, 2011 for the kids on winter break. Check the website for specific hours open each day. Note that the temperature, wind and precipitation each affect the speed of Snow Tubing. Younger and/or more timid guests may prefer the mid-day sessions when tubing conditions are generally more moderate.
What to wear: Boots, gloves, and winter coats are essential. Hats/ear muffs, scarves, and snow pants are useful and may be necessary on unusually cold days. The snow is wet, cold, and slippery so bring an extra set of clothes, especially for the kids. Stone Mountain does offer lockers for rent, or simply pack extras in a backpack and keep it with you.
Enjoy!
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| Nina-Rose and Bryce loved digging in the snow. |
Bring your entire family, from toddlers to kids home from college, and enjoy tubing, sledding, snowmen making, and other fun snow activities. Snow Mountain tickets include a two-hour tubing session plus unlimited access to the snow play areas for maximum play time.
Snow Mountain keeps the entire family busy for hours. A 400’ foot tubing hill and a snow play area filled with a blizzard of snow activities make Snow Mountain Atlanta’s not-to-be-missed winter attraction. There’s even a play zone reserved for the littlest snow bunnies and two hills for the under 54 inch crowd. (And if big kids are taking over the area, be sure to tell one of the many attendants to help take care of the issue.) |
| Bryce, even at 2 years old, was able to go sledding. |
Snow Mountain’s state-of-the-art snow-making magic guarantees tons of fresh snow daily. It looks, feels, and melts like the real thing. Plan to spend the day and take advantage of all Snow Mountain, and Stone Mountain, have to offer. Have lunch or dinner in the Crossroads area to warm up and look for family and budget friendly options like a whole pizza for $20 at The Marketplace at Stone Mountain.
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| Nina-Rose and Bryce warm up in the Marketplace. |
If you go before January 2nd, buy a Snow Mountain/A Stone Mountain Christmas combo ticket to enjoy the shows, movies, and other fun holiday attractions associated with A Stone Mountain Christmas. We really enjoyed A Stone Mountain Christmas too. It's a nice indoor/outdoor combo. Space is limited each day so be sure to reserve a timeslot online. Walk-up tickets will only be sold based on availability. Go ahead...take a snow day.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:Cost: Snow Mountain: Adult/Child (3-11): $27 each; under 3: free. Snow Mountain/A Stone Mountain Christmas combo ticket: Adult/Child (3-11): $44 each (a savings of 30%). Want a discount? Get a $4 coupon at local Krogers for all Snow Mountain tickets. (Coupon must be used online.) Tickets can be bought online.Height/weight requirements for each activitiy are as follows:
•Minimum height for Avalanche Alley: 36 inches
•Minimum height for Tube Runners: 42 inches
•Maximum weight for Avalanche Alley: 1,000lbs (max of 6 riders)
•Maximum weight for Tube Runners: 300 lbs
When to go: Snow Mountain is open weekends (and certain holidays) through March 6, 2011. It is open all day this week through January 3, 2011 for the kids on winter break. Check the website for specific hours open each day. Note that the temperature, wind and precipitation each affect the speed of Snow Tubing. Younger and/or more timid guests may prefer the mid-day sessions when tubing conditions are generally more moderate.
What to wear: Boots, gloves, and winter coats are essential. Hats/ear muffs, scarves, and snow pants are useful and may be necessary on unusually cold days. The snow is wet, cold, and slippery so bring an extra set of clothes, especially for the kids. Stone Mountain does offer lockers for rent, or simply pack extras in a backpack and keep it with you.
Enjoy!
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Clean the house in a hurry - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com
My house is a mess from Christmas so these tips come right on time for me. Plus, with NYE coming up this week I have to have my place in line in case guests pop over. Check out these tips. Hope they are helpful! Clean the house in a hurry - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Last minute year-end getaways: Deals, steals and added bonuses - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com
If you want to get out of town, check out these deals. There are some great ones! Last minute year-end getaways: Deals, steals and added bonuses - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Pamper yourself with these skincare giveaways!
If the winter weather is already wrecking havoc on your skin then you are in the right place! Enter this giveaway to win over $60 in moisture-rich luxury products. The winner will get full-size products of Elizabeth Grant Hand & Foot Cream (one of the Best Stocking Stuffers for 2010) as well as Completely Bare's Completely Smooth for Body (a Best for Moms item).
These products will help keep your skin moist, supple, and smooth (really, really smooth). Best of all, EVERYBODY can enter as the products will be shipped directly to the winner. Here's some more information on these great skin products:
Elizabeth Grant hand & foot cream is that extra rich moisturizing cream that you keep by your bedside to make sure your winter-worn, ultra dry hands and feet don’t scare your spouse. It has camphor in it so it smells a bit like sports cream but in a mild, minty way. It absorbs into your skin in seconds and doesn’t leave your hands feeling greasy. Celebrities from 50 Cent to Deidre Hall to Jennifer Love Hewitt have all been seen enjoying Elizabeth Grant products. And if 50 likes it…who am I not to love it? $20 online
Completely Bare’s Completely Smooth for Body is a fantastic body moisturizer, filled with healing shea butter, aloe & vitamins A & E. It smells good, moisturizes well and it is packed with super-saver Capislow, that has been shown to inhibit hair growth! Use on your legs and in your bikini area right after the shower and see how it works. I haven't used it long enough to say if it worked on inhibiting hair growth to me but it's a great moisturizer. You have to love a multi-tasking product! $42 online.
The winner will be picked from all entries using Random.org. The contest ends at 5pm on Christmas Eve (Friday, December 24, 2010).
To enter this giveaway, just leave a comment below. For extra entries (one for each item) do the following:
1.Follow me on twitter (@mariarsmith) and tweet "Win winter skincare products from @EGSkincare, @CompletelyBare & @mariarsmith: http://exm.nr/fQa5Ha "
2.Leave a comment on the "skincare" post on my Examiner column: http://exm.nr/fQa5Ha
3.Follow Elizabeth Grant on twitter (@EGSkincare)
4.Follow Completely Bare on twitter (@CompletelyBare)
Good luck!
These products will help keep your skin moist, supple, and smooth (really, really smooth). Best of all, EVERYBODY can enter as the products will be shipped directly to the winner. Here's some more information on these great skin products:
Elizabeth Grant hand & foot cream is that extra rich moisturizing cream that you keep by your bedside to make sure your winter-worn, ultra dry hands and feet don’t scare your spouse. It has camphor in it so it smells a bit like sports cream but in a mild, minty way. It absorbs into your skin in seconds and doesn’t leave your hands feeling greasy. Celebrities from 50 Cent to Deidre Hall to Jennifer Love Hewitt have all been seen enjoying Elizabeth Grant products. And if 50 likes it…who am I not to love it? $20 online
Completely Bare’s Completely Smooth for Body is a fantastic body moisturizer, filled with healing shea butter, aloe & vitamins A & E. It smells good, moisturizes well and it is packed with super-saver Capislow, that has been shown to inhibit hair growth! Use on your legs and in your bikini area right after the shower and see how it works. I haven't used it long enough to say if it worked on inhibiting hair growth to me but it's a great moisturizer. You have to love a multi-tasking product! $42 online.
The winner will be picked from all entries using Random.org. The contest ends at 5pm on Christmas Eve (Friday, December 24, 2010).
To enter this giveaway, just leave a comment below. For extra entries (one for each item) do the following:
1.Follow me on twitter (@mariarsmith) and tweet "Win winter skincare products from @EGSkincare, @CompletelyBare & @mariarsmith: http://exm.nr/fQa5Ha "
2.Leave a comment on the "skincare" post on my Examiner column: http://exm.nr/fQa5Ha
3.Follow Elizabeth Grant on twitter (@EGSkincare)
4.Follow Completely Bare on twitter (@CompletelyBare)
Good luck!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Feeling totally welcome at the Ritz-Carlton Lodge
If you're looking to get out of the city with your kids, the Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation is a fantastic option. This resort is located only 75 miles south of Atlanta in Greensboro, GA, and has a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere you don’t usually find at a luxury resort. Like the name of the road visitors turn off of, it is a “Linger Longer” type of place. It is a world-class resort with deluxe accommodations but its relaxed atmosphere puts guests at ease. I know my family and I loved it!
Known mainly for its summer activities, including 99 holes of championship golf, spectacular beach and lake activities on Lake Oconee, and lots of green space to walk or bike, one may not think of it as a winter destination. But that would be dead wrong. The Ritz-Carlton Lodge is warm and inviting and honest to goodness family-friendly. It has all the appointments of a luxury hotel, but it doesn’t take itself too seriously. The resort fosters a laid-back, communal air without losing its upscale edge.
Here is a review of the resort from this mom’s perspective:
Family-friendliness
The Ritz-Carlton Lodge seems to focus, particularly at this time of the year, on making families feel welcome. From the holiday activities including Breakfast with Santa, Mrs. Claus’s Storytime, Gingerbread House workshops, and the Linger Longer train to simply acknowledging children as they pass through the lobby, little ones feel as special as their parents. Pack a coat in the winter to spend some time at the playground, check out some lawn games, or rent a bicycle. (They even have tricycles!) And don’t miss the nightly campfire (7-10pm) with complimentary s’mores. Rest assured, there is PLENTY to do here in the winter!
The friendliness extends to the guests as well. People seem to genuinely want to get to know each other and are very patient with sometimes rather noisy children. And, as in other Ritz-Carltons, the staff is more than happy to provide families with high chairs, cribs, and baby-proofing amenities. When mom and dad have had enough family time, they can turn to the Ritz Kids program offering supervised physical and creative activities for kids 5-12 during the day ($65 to $85/child) as well as on Friday and Saturday nights ($75 for 3 hours including dinner). They also offer a nanny service ($30/hour for up to 5 children). These programs must be reserved 24 hours in advance.
AccommodationsThis hotel has everything that one would expect in a Ritz-Carlton. The 251 rooms are stylish, fresh and clean with luxurious appointments but they remain unfussy. There aren't knickknacks for kids to knock over and the flat screen TVs get both Disney channel and Nickelodian. For families, the resort offers connecting rooms (make sure to reserve well in advance) as well as oversized executive suites. The walls can be a bit thin, so some white noise (a music playing bear perhaps?) can be helpful for eagle-eared children. The rooms are not as expensive as one might think, often under $300/night. They are offering a New Year's Eve package for $365/night which includes breakfast, parking, champagne and a great view of the midnight fireworks. Their Holiday Lights Bed & Breakfast package includes breakfast and parking and starts at $229/night.
For a worthwhile splurge, consider staying on the Club Level floor. With access to the Club Lounge, offering food and drink presentations throughout the day, families can save on food expenses as well as have an additional place to hang out and relax. And once the kids go to bed, mom and dad can grab a glass of the Ritz-Carlton Chardonnay and some delectable desserts for a delightful end to the day. My husband and I took turns visiting the Club Lounge while the kids were sleeping. No babysitter needed!
Dining
Families feel comfortable throughout the Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynold’s Plantation, and the dining options are no different. Gaby’s by the Lake offers the best choice for those with infants and small children. They have casual American fare and the staff are adept at dealing with both well and poorly behaving children. Georgia’s Bistro is the white table cloth restaurant at the resort with more contemporary cuisine. It is more casual during the day, but still a fine-dining establishment. I didn't really feel comfortable taking my 3 kids (under 4 years old) to this restaurant but I think older kids would be fine. Room service is offered 24 hours a day. The Lodge also offers a children's menu and an inclusive kid's meal plan for $25 per day per child.
Tip: Gaby’s offers carry-out, so skip the room service fees, order off of the entire menu, and pick up the food to enjoy back in the room.
Activities/Spa
As outlined above, there are a myriad of activities for guests to do at the Lodge. For those who want to enjoy the brisk air, they can take a walk, ride a bike, hunt for pinecones, or skip stones in the tranquil lake. If guests want to avoid the winter chill, they can curl up in the Lobby Lounge by the fireplace with hot chocolate or apple cider (or perhaps something harder.) They can also forget about winter altogether at the Ritz-Carlton Spa. The Spa has a co-ed relaxing indoor pool and whirlpool area along with a full fitness center. Their treatments are professional and the spa facilities are well-appointed with thoughtful touches like tea, juice, and a granola mix in the waiting room. The Spa offers family swim in the indoor spa pool each day from 5 to 8pm. And for moms-to-be, the Spa has a whole maternity menu just for them.
Overall, this is a great resort for families...both in the heat of summer and the dead of winter. It is a quick getaway and with one of their packages, can be quite affordable.
Enjoy!
Author's note: My family and I were guests at the Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation for a weekend stay during December 2010. Though parts of the visit were provided gratis, the opinions, beliefs and experiences expressed are entirely my own.
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| The Smiths enjoying Gingerbread House decorating. |
Known mainly for its summer activities, including 99 holes of championship golf, spectacular beach and lake activities on Lake Oconee, and lots of green space to walk or bike, one may not think of it as a winter destination. But that would be dead wrong. The Ritz-Carlton Lodge is warm and inviting and honest to goodness family-friendly. It has all the appointments of a luxury hotel, but it doesn’t take itself too seriously. The resort fosters a laid-back, communal air without losing its upscale edge.
Here is a review of the resort from this mom’s perspective:
Family-friendliness
 |
| There were lots of fun activities for even my young kids. |
The friendliness extends to the guests as well. People seem to genuinely want to get to know each other and are very patient with sometimes rather noisy children. And, as in other Ritz-Carltons, the staff is more than happy to provide families with high chairs, cribs, and baby-proofing amenities. When mom and dad have had enough family time, they can turn to the Ritz Kids program offering supervised physical and creative activities for kids 5-12 during the day ($65 to $85/child) as well as on Friday and Saturday nights ($75 for 3 hours including dinner). They also offer a nanny service ($30/hour for up to 5 children). These programs must be reserved 24 hours in advance.
AccommodationsThis hotel has everything that one would expect in a Ritz-Carlton. The 251 rooms are stylish, fresh and clean with luxurious appointments but they remain unfussy. There aren't knickknacks for kids to knock over and the flat screen TVs get both Disney channel and Nickelodian. For families, the resort offers connecting rooms (make sure to reserve well in advance) as well as oversized executive suites. The walls can be a bit thin, so some white noise (a music playing bear perhaps?) can be helpful for eagle-eared children. The rooms are not as expensive as one might think, often under $300/night. They are offering a New Year's Eve package for $365/night which includes breakfast, parking, champagne and a great view of the midnight fireworks. Their Holiday Lights Bed & Breakfast package includes breakfast and parking and starts at $229/night.
For a worthwhile splurge, consider staying on the Club Level floor. With access to the Club Lounge, offering food and drink presentations throughout the day, families can save on food expenses as well as have an additional place to hang out and relax. And once the kids go to bed, mom and dad can grab a glass of the Ritz-Carlton Chardonnay and some delectable desserts for a delightful end to the day. My husband and I took turns visiting the Club Lounge while the kids were sleeping. No babysitter needed!
 |
| Even the baby had fun at the playground! |
Families feel comfortable throughout the Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynold’s Plantation, and the dining options are no different. Gaby’s by the Lake offers the best choice for those with infants and small children. They have casual American fare and the staff are adept at dealing with both well and poorly behaving children. Georgia’s Bistro is the white table cloth restaurant at the resort with more contemporary cuisine. It is more casual during the day, but still a fine-dining establishment. I didn't really feel comfortable taking my 3 kids (under 4 years old) to this restaurant but I think older kids would be fine. Room service is offered 24 hours a day. The Lodge also offers a children's menu and an inclusive kid's meal plan for $25 per day per child.
Tip: Gaby’s offers carry-out, so skip the room service fees, order off of the entire menu, and pick up the food to enjoy back in the room.
Activities/Spa
 |
| The playground is a great place for kids to burn off some energy. |
Overall, this is a great resort for families...both in the heat of summer and the dead of winter. It is a quick getaway and with one of their packages, can be quite affordable.
Enjoy!
Author's note: My family and I were guests at the Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation for a weekend stay during December 2010. Though parts of the visit were provided gratis, the opinions, beliefs and experiences expressed are entirely my own.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Holiday Hoopla: Win a gourmet gift basket (up to $80 value)
In today's Holiday Hoopla giveway, one lucky person will win a holiday gift basket of her choice from the upscale, epicurean food store, Fresh Market! Fresh Market baskets are luxurious gifts and can include gourmet candy, pasta, chocolate, or a myriad of other delicacies. The best thing is that the winner gets to pick out the one that suits her best. She can keep it for herself or give it to a (very) good friend or family member...just in time for Christmas!
The Fresh Market gift baskets are a delicious, gourmet gift idea for those who love luxury foods. There are no limits to the baskets that can be created in store, so it's easy to custom-create a gift basket reflecting personal taste. For those that don't win, anyone can order online and choose from one of large variety of thoughtfully created baskets to fit any need that can be sent anywhere in the country.
The value of the gift baskets available to choose from in this giveaway is between $40 and $80. The winner will be able to pick the basket up at any Atlanta-area The Fresh Market store. There are five stores in the metro Atlanta area including in Dunwoody, Marietta, Alpharetta, and two in Atlanta. The winner will be picked from all entries using Random.org. The contest ends at 10pm Sunday, December 19.
To enter this giveaway, just leave a comment below with your favorite item to see in a gift basket. For extra entries (one for each item) do the following:
1.Follow me on twitter (@mariarsmith) and tweet "Win a gourmet gift basket from @mariarsmith: http://exm.nr/gKDRjk
2.Leave a comment on the Fresh Market post on my Stay at Home Moms column on Examiner: http://t.co/JfgTa8k
About The Fresh Market:
With 99 stores in 20 states, The Fresh Market stores convey the atmosphere of an old world European market, all under one roof, where shoppers can visit an array of departments: our old-style butcher shop and fish market, bakery, produce and floral stands, and delicatessen. Founded in 1982, this specialty grocery retailer focuses on providing high-quality products in a unique and inviting atmosphere with a high level of customer service.
The Fresh Market gift baskets are a delicious, gourmet gift idea for those who love luxury foods. There are no limits to the baskets that can be created in store, so it's easy to custom-create a gift basket reflecting personal taste. For those that don't win, anyone can order online and choose from one of large variety of thoughtfully created baskets to fit any need that can be sent anywhere in the country.
The value of the gift baskets available to choose from in this giveaway is between $40 and $80. The winner will be able to pick the basket up at any Atlanta-area The Fresh Market store. There are five stores in the metro Atlanta area including in Dunwoody, Marietta, Alpharetta, and two in Atlanta. The winner will be picked from all entries using Random.org. The contest ends at 10pm Sunday, December 19.
To enter this giveaway, just leave a comment below with your favorite item to see in a gift basket. For extra entries (one for each item) do the following:
1.Follow me on twitter (@mariarsmith) and tweet "Win a gourmet gift basket from @mariarsmith: http://exm.nr/gKDRjk
2.Leave a comment on the Fresh Market post on my Stay at Home Moms column on Examiner: http://t.co/JfgTa8k
About The Fresh Market:
With 99 stores in 20 states, The Fresh Market stores convey the atmosphere of an old world European market, all under one roof, where shoppers can visit an array of departments: our old-style butcher shop and fish market, bakery, produce and floral stands, and delicatessen. Founded in 1982, this specialty grocery retailer focuses on providing high-quality products in a unique and inviting atmosphere with a high level of customer service.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Win two tickets to West Side Story!!
Win two tickets to West Side Story in Atlanta! One of the Best Gifts for Moms this year was tickets to see Broadway Across America's touring performance of the classic musical, West Side Story, at the Fabulous Fox theater. Now, a reader of this column can get those tickets for free, a $92 value!
The winner of this giveaway will receive two premiere tickets to the 8pm performace on January 25, 2011. The tickets will be available for pick up at the Media Check in table under the name of the winner. Readers have until Thursday, December 16, 2010 at 12 midnight EST to enter this contest.
More than fifty years ago, West Side Story changed musical theater forever. Now it’s back mesmerizing audiences once again. From the first note to the final breath, West Side Story tells one of the greatest love stories of all time. Directed by Tony Award-winner Arthur Laurents, West Side Story remains as powerful, poignant and timely as ever. West Side Story will be at the Fox Theatre January 25-30, 2011.
To enter this giveaway, just leave a comment below with the name of your favorite Broadway musical song. For extra entries (one for each item) do the following:
1. Follow me on twitter (@mariarsmith) and tweet "Win 2 tickets to see West Side Story from @mariarsmith: http://exm.nr/gKDRjk
2. Leave a comment on the West Side Story post on my Examiner column: http://www.examiner.com/stay-at-home-moms-in-atlanta/holiday-hoopla-win-two-tickets-to-west-side-story
Good luck!
The winner of this giveaway will receive two premiere tickets to the 8pm performace on January 25, 2011. The tickets will be available for pick up at the Media Check in table under the name of the winner. Readers have until Thursday, December 16, 2010 at 12 midnight EST to enter this contest.
More than fifty years ago, West Side Story changed musical theater forever. Now it’s back mesmerizing audiences once again. From the first note to the final breath, West Side Story tells one of the greatest love stories of all time. Directed by Tony Award-winner Arthur Laurents, West Side Story remains as powerful, poignant and timely as ever. West Side Story will be at the Fox Theatre January 25-30, 2011.
To enter this giveaway, just leave a comment below with the name of your favorite Broadway musical song. For extra entries (one for each item) do the following:
1. Follow me on twitter (@mariarsmith) and tweet "Win 2 tickets to see West Side Story from @mariarsmith: http://exm.nr/gKDRjk
2. Leave a comment on the West Side Story post on my Examiner column: http://www.examiner.com/stay-at-home-moms-in-atlanta/holiday-hoopla-win-two-tickets-to-west-side-story
Good luck!
Monday, December 13, 2010
Just signed up with Blogger-to-Business
So I just signed up with this company called Blogger-to-Business which matches bloggers up with businesses who want help getting the word out about their companies and/or products. From what I understand, they provide me with opportunities to review products and get paid for blogging about things I care about. Sounds pretty cool...actually sounds like what I do already except the getting paid part. I'll keep you updated on how it goes. And of course, no matter if I'm getting paid or if I get a product free to review, I will always give you my honest opinion.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Holiday Hoopla: Telaflora.com bouquet giveaway
Ready for some HOLIDAY HOOPLA? Today's giveaway is from Telaflora.com. Get their Send a Hug Bouquet (a $45 value) to keep for yourself or have it sent to a favorite friend or relative. This giveaway will end at 12 midnight EST, Tuesday, December 14, 2010 to allow for delivery before Christmas.
This bouquet is a merry, holly-berried bouquet of miniature red carnations, white cushion spray chrysanthemums, white button spray chrysanthemums, and other flowers in a ceramic snowball being embraced by a cute hand-painted snowman. It is the perfect gift for people of all ages, including teachers, neighbors, mommy friends, or really anyone. This bouquet also makes a fun, whimsical centerpiece and smells terrific!
To enter this giveaway, just leave a comment below telling me about your favorite holiday decorations. For extra entries do the following:
1.Follow me on twitter (@mariarsmith) and tweet "@Telefora giveaway from @mariarsmith: http://exm.nr/gVZ780
2.Leave a comment on my Atlanta Stay at Home Mom column: http://www.examiner.com/stay-at-home-moms-in-atlanta/holiday-hoopla-telaflora-com-bouquet-giveaway
Go ahead and leave a comment below. Good luck!
This bouquet is a merry, holly-berried bouquet of miniature red carnations, white cushion spray chrysanthemums, white button spray chrysanthemums, and other flowers in a ceramic snowball being embraced by a cute hand-painted snowman. It is the perfect gift for people of all ages, including teachers, neighbors, mommy friends, or really anyone. This bouquet also makes a fun, whimsical centerpiece and smells terrific!
To enter this giveaway, just leave a comment below telling me about your favorite holiday decorations. For extra entries do the following:
1.Follow me on twitter (@mariarsmith) and tweet "@Telefora giveaway from @mariarsmith: http://exm.nr/gVZ780
2.Leave a comment on my Atlanta Stay at Home Mom column: http://www.examiner.com/stay-at-home-moms-in-atlanta/holiday-hoopla-telaflora-com-bouquet-giveaway
Go ahead and leave a comment below. Good luck!
Friday, December 10, 2010
Best gifts for Dads - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com
These gifts include a ones for a techy dad, a sportsman, a hipster and a metrosexual daddy. Something for everyone! Best gifts for Dads - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com
Best gifts for Moms - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com
These are GREAT gifts for moms or to buy yourself. The Clarisonic, gourmet gift towers that give back to the needy, pretty flower arrangements and West Side Story tickets are among the ones found on the list. Check them out (and then buy them for me...I mean you.) Best gifts for Moms - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Best gifts for all: Stocking stuffers under $35
These stocking stuffers are great because of their small stature but also because of their tiny prices. Stuff them in a stocking or have a few wrapped up for hostess gifts. Check back next week to WIN some of these products during my holiday hoopla giveaway days! Check out more gifts here.
Elizabeth Grant hand & foot cream is that extra rich moisturizing cream that you keep by your bedside to make sure your winter-worn, ultra dry hands and feet don’t scare your spouse. It has camphor in it so it smells a bit like sports cream but in a mild, minty way. It absorbs into your skin in seconds and doesn’t leave your hands feeling greasy. Celebrities from 50 Cent to Deidre Hall to Jennifer Love Hewitt have all been seen enjoying Elizabeth Grant products. And if 50 likes it…who am I not to love it? $20 online
Clientele Pumpkin scrub is pumpkin pie for your face. Yummy! It is a delight to your senses and uses natural pumpkin enzymes and jojoba beads that cleans and exfoliates your face to expose smooth radiant skin. Clientele says that the scrub cleanses pores and removes blackheads and dull, lifeless skin. I just know it feels good and smells like heaven in a tube. $35 online
Intemperantia chocolate is a little bite of angel dust…a slice of chocolate heaven…a cocoa kiss from St. Peter himself. It is no wonder that Intemperantia is Latin for self-indulgence. This is 'sit down and savor' chocolate and not to be wasted on two year olds or casual chocolate eaters. Intemperantia offers gourmet organic vegan chocolates so you can feel good about your diet breaking. They include no artificial ingredients, colors, or flavorings, and use only the finest liquors and nuts. $15.28 for the 9 piece mini-truffle box online (and no tax or shipping fees!)
Check out more gifts here. Enjoy!
Gift guide for the young and young at heart
There are some people that are easy to shop for but teens and tweens, and young and the young at heart are notoriously difficult. Sure gift cards are always an option but they are so impersonal. Take a look at these four cool, unique gifts below and maybe you can cross someone off your list...or at least gather some inspiration. Check back next week to WIN some great products during my holiday hoopla giveaway days! Check out more gifts here.
Pantech Laser is the thinnest sliding full keyboard device ever offered by AT&T and would make a great gift for a teenager who lives for Facebook updates as well as a mom who needs help finding the nearest grocery store. At less than 1 cm thick, this smart, sleek phone packs in plenty of powerful tools and features, but it’s so thin it fits comfortably into your purse or pocket. Do your banking, access apps and the Internet, and take photos and video on its touchscreen. $99.99 with a two-year contract online.
Quagmire kids is for parents who want their kids to have functional clothes that really look cool. This hip golf apparel brand has just launched a kids line and have upped the ante for all others. The line includes a range of ColorFusion tops that change colors when exposed to the sun or heat. What kid doesn’t want to see their shirt change colors? As a bonus, Quagmire assures parents that their clothes are built to last. No special washing instructions and no need to worry about the color fading or the material not being able to withstand somersaults and wrestling matches. $25 to $45 online
Moo.com Sticker book is perfect for anyone who would love to accent their to-do lists, thank you cards, and post-it notes with photos of their family. It is also FABULOUS for 8 year olds who love to accent everything with stickers. Why not chose some great photos and make a sticker book just for your special little girl. Chose up to 90 different images or just pick a couple good pictures and upload them to moo.com. They will give you 90 postage stamp-sized stickers bound in a pocket-sized book. This is definitely going in my daughter’s stocking! $9.99 for 90 stickers online.
Mega Bloks Pull-Along Musical Pirate Ship will bring a smile to any 2-6 year olds face. This 20-piece buildable pull-along pirate ship transforms into a treasure hide-out for hours of imaginative play. It plays music and has wheels so your little pirate and pull it throughout the house. It's impressive size will wow even the most cynical preschooler. $29.99 at various retailers like Target.
Check out more gifts here. Enjoy!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
"Elf on the Shelf" cupcake tea & book signing at the Mansion on Peachtree - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com
This looks like a really cool event. Kinda pricey but might be fun for an extra special holiday memory. I haven't done the Elf on the Shelf yet with my little ones but it looks like a great tradition. "Elf on the Shelf" cupcake tea & book signing at the Mansion on Peachtree - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Monday, December 6, 2010
My Episencial Mommy Party
I was thrilled to be selected to host a "Mommy Party" for the natural skincare line, Episencial. I had never used the line before but have seen it in Target. To be truthful, the line was more expensive than my usual kids soap (Aveeno) so I had never wanted to spend the extra money to try it out. I was very impressed with the products though and if you want/need organic, natural products they are worth the money.
The products I was given included Playful Foaming Wash, Sweet Dreams Bubble Bath, Better Body Butter, Soothing Cream, Nurturing Balm, Sunny Sunscreen SPF 35, and Protective Face Balm SPF 6. The best thing was that they all smelled SO good. My kids loved the bubble bath because the bubbles actually stayed for awhile before disappearing. The Soothing Cream is nice for my son who has eczema and great for the dry skin the cold winter weather has brought on. Really, all the products have met or exceeded my expectations.
Overall, everyone had a great time and enjoyed taking the Episencial products home. Thanks Episencial!
From Episencial.com:
Episencial is the first and only professional-quality, all natural skincare system created specifically for the unique developing skin type of babies and kids. Free from the bad stuff like parabens, phthalates and fragrances, Episencial products are loaded with all-natural goodness and healthy organics. Plus, these gentle, newborn safe formulas feature an exclusive skin immune complex™ to boost the skin’s immune functions and help the body ward off illnesses.
Packaged in recycled and sustainable materials, and manufactured using solar power, Episencial products are good for your babies, kids and the planet!
Note: Though products were supplied for my guests and I from Episencial and Mommy Parties free of charge, the opinions expressed here are totally my own.
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| My kids enjoyed playing with the blocks and hanging out with the other kids. |
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| Each mom was given a white Epicencial gift bag like the one in this picture. |
Last month, I was able to bring the Episencial products to an Atlanta Mocha Moms mother's support/play group. There were nine moms there with kids ranging from 2 months to 4 years old as well as a pregnant mother so everyone seemed very excited to get some new, free products. Some moms had heard of Episencial but most just knew it as the products that had the Eric Carle caterpillar on it. Some moms didn't know that it was available at places like Target (a must for busy moms who don't have time to trot all over town for lotion).
From Episencial.com:
Episencial is the first and only professional-quality, all natural skincare system created specifically for the unique developing skin type of babies and kids. Free from the bad stuff like parabens, phthalates and fragrances, Episencial products are loaded with all-natural goodness and healthy organics. Plus, these gentle, newborn safe formulas feature an exclusive skin immune complex™ to boost the skin’s immune functions and help the body ward off illnesses.
Packaged in recycled and sustainable materials, and manufactured using solar power, Episencial products are good for your babies, kids and the planet!
Note: Though products were supplied for my guests and I from Episencial and Mommy Parties free of charge, the opinions expressed here are totally my own.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Get Atlanta’s best pizza for FREE tomorrow - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms | Examiner.com
I love this place. The pizza is delicious and the people are so nice. It is super affordable normally and tomorrow it is FREE. Can't get much better than that. We had my daughter's 3rd birthday party there this past Spring and some of our friends are still talking about it. Check it out!
Get Atlanta’s best pizza for FREE tomorrow - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com
Get Atlanta’s best pizza for FREE tomorrow - Atlanta Stay-at-Home Moms Examiner.com
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