Get a Melissa & Doug 25% Off Coupon When You Take the North "Poll"

I'm a big Melissa & Doug fan so I had to let you know about this great coupon for the holidays.  They sell educational and FUN toys...some old school, some new school but they all are full of innocence and will engage your kids for hours (or for 20 minutes but hey...who's counting?). So, Melissa & Doug wants you to tell them which of their educational toys you think is the best! Just click on the image below to place your vote in the North "Poll!" You'll Get a Melissa & Doug 25% Off Coupon** to use at MelissaAndDoug.com just for voting!  Woohoo!  Check them out!

Gift Guide: "Babylicious" gifts for the holidays

Here are a few ideas on what to get the little ones in your family who are too young to have learned the art of Christmas begging.  (That will come...soon.)


Ella's Kitchen
Trying to find  ways to fill out your baby's stocking? Give them the healthy and delicious gift of Ella's Kitchen fruit and vegetable purées. They are great for babies over 4 months and event be surprised if our older kids love them as well. (My 4 year old will fight you for the sweet potato/pumpkin/apples/blueberry one.) Even babies can eat these by themselves with minimal mess and moms will love that they are organic and full of 100% fruit and veggies.  No added sugar, salt or preservatives in these babies. Find them at Target, Whole Foods, or a variety of other grocery outlets or online. Cost: varies but Target has them $12.90 for 7.


Recordable books from Hallmark
I love this gift.  Buy one and ask Grandma and Grandpa to read it so your kids can listen to their voice whenever they want.  Or do Mom or Dad sometimes miss bedtime?  Record a special story so whenever that happens, your kids can still get a bedtime story from you.  There are a variety of books, and they aren't just Christmas related.  My favorite is "All the ways I love you".  So sweet!! Available at Hallmark stores with the biggest variety available online.  Cost: $29.95


ColorFusion t-shirts from Quagmire Golf
These unisex t-shirts and polos are great for boys and "tomboyish" girls.  They are good quality and made to last long by Quagmire Golf, a company well known for it's well made and stylish active attire.  The most fun things though is that they change colors with heat or cold.  Kids will have fun trying to get another color to come out and moms like them because they will make getting dressed just a little easier.  And their hip!  Who doesn't want a hipster kid?  Buy at retail outlets or online. Cost: starting at $19.95


Photo teddy bear or sports ball from RitzPix.com
Want your little one to take Mom and Dad to bed each night?  Get a teddy bear or sports ball (football, baseball, or basketball) and add your photo to it.  They can sleep with you without actually sleeping in your bed.  Everyone wins!  This would also be a cute idea for a mom-to-be or for an Aunt to give her nieces and nephews (especially if they live far away).  Buy online.  Cost: $17.99 for a sports ball and $27.99 for a teddy bear. 


Enjoy!



Disclosure: I received no compensation for any items in this gift guide though some items were sent to me for review purposes. As always, all opinions are entirely my own.www.hallmark.com

Gift Guide: "Budgetlicious" gifts for the holidays (all under $15!)

Need cool gifts for less?  Of course!  We all do!  With the economy still in the dumps you may be looking for ways to give thoughtful gifts that don't dent your wallet.  Some of these gifts make great stocking stuffers too.  And be sure to check out the discounts!

Shootie Girl t-shirts

I first checked out this mom-led t-shirt company over the summer and was so impressed with the quality of their products.  I have the Moms Rock t-shirt and I get so many compliments on it.  Very chic!  They are currently running a "Small Business Saturday" special for 15% off any product site-wide or free shipping.  My favorite design is the Mommy and Me special.  You get a Moms Rock rhinestone tee (bedazzle it with whatever color you want) and a First Grade Rocks tee for your daughter.  (You can choose whatever grade you need.)  Regularly priced: $35 for both but with the discount it's $29.75 or less than $15 each!

Hallmark's "Merry-Okee" microphone
Who wouldn't smile at a Christmas karaoke microphone? This super cute gift would be great for any budding songstress or maybe that aunt who always belts out the tunes after a little nip into the holiday eggnog. It's fun, cute, and comes with a song book filled with the words to seasonal songs as well as some "silly" lyrics to make the kids laugh.  This gift retails for $19.95 but get $5 off with this coupon (in store only).

Febreeze seasonal candles
Candles are great gifts for a variety of people.  From your kids' teachers to your good friends, anyone can appreciate a good scent.  Plus, there are great ways to "dress up" your gift.  (Do not just hand it to her in a Publix bag!)  I tried out these new Febreeze candles and they just scream "holiday".  The Cinnamon Sugar and Home is my favorite.  The description says: "The warm aroma of homemade cinnamon glazed pastries mixing with the soothing sweetness of vanilla. They smell good enough to eat.  Retail: $9.99  (And if you coupon, check the 10/30 P&G Brandsaver insert for coupons for these candles!)

2011 Commemorative Ornament from RitzPix.com
This pewter ornament looks like it costs much more than it does.  It is a great way to remember a special event from this year...a new baby, a new house, or maybe just a funny event you happen to have a photo of.  The ornament comes with a ribbon for hanging and could be a great way to build a memorable collection for your family.  The ornament retails at $19.99.  Spend just a little more (maybe buy two?) and get free Next Day Delivery with any order over $30.

Enjoy!

Disclosure: I received no compensation for any items in this gift guide though some items were sent to me for review purposes. As always, all opinions are entirely my own.

.

2011 Holiday Gift Guide: Mamalicous Gifts AND a tasty giveaway

Looking for something to get your BFF from your mom's group?  Maybe a unique present for your older sister? How about some ideas for yourself????  Then keep reading!  I've put together a short list of unique and useful gifts that would look good under any Christmas tree this holiday season.  Plus, check out the super easy giveaway and win some free stuff!

Topsy Popcorn
                                                                         
I lived in Chicago for 10 years and spent many days battling the cold and crowds for the Second City's favorite popcorn.  I thought nothing could top it until Topsy's Popcorn Company took on my bet and offered to send me some of their special recipe popcorn.  Judging by the way it is totally disappearing around my house, Topsy's has succeeded in winning this former Chicagoan's heart.  I tried the caramel/cinnamon/cheese combo.  It doesn't sound like those flavors would work but they do!  The cinnamon is red (which was fun for the kids) and has a little kick to it...kind of like a red hot candy.  The caramel is sweet but not sticky sweet and the cheese is all about the salt (and the cheese).  So even if you like that "other" popcorn, give Topsy's a try.  You'll like it!  Want to win some for free?  Just comment on this post and I'll pick a winner on 12/1. (Want another entry?  Tweet this article and include my handle @mariarsmith.  Leave me another comment when you tweet.)  Buy online. Cost: $25.95 (for 2lb tin).

Solz house shoes

Australia brought us the crazy shoe trend known as Uggs, and now they are bringing Americans another surefire hot item for our feet: Solz.  These are half slipper-half shoe and are super comfortable for wearing around the house.  The cotton stretches to mold to the shape of your foot and they are designed to endure regular washing.  Plus, they are cute and the harder sole makes them great for a quick trip to take the garbage out.  I think they would work well for traveling too as they are slim enough to tuck into your purse.  Buy online. Cost: $39.95 (only $5 shipping)

Skin Authority skincare products
                                                                     
Skincare products may not scream romance or seem super sentimental but man oh man are they useful, needed, and APPRECIATED.  I have had the privilege of trying several Skin Authority products and they are  all really good.  They smell good and feel good on my face and best of all they work good.  My current favorite is the Calming Mask.  It is a clarifying mask that exfoliates dead skin cells, clears clogged pores, dries blemishes, and calms inflamed skin.  Your skin will feel clean and clear and bright.  Just what you want for a "picture perfect" holiday! Buy online.  Cost: $32

Ritzpix.com Did you know that the camera giant, Ritz & Wolf Camera & Image, now offers their outstanding quality online?  Well they do!  Check out RitzPix.com for some awesome sentimental presents. Be sure to check their special offers.  They always have great deals on things you actually want.  I absolutely love the canvas prints.  They take your digital photos (even ones from Facebook!) and make them look like a piece of art.  Remember that picture of your friend's cute kids?  Instant and fabulous gift!  Right now use code: Canvas33 for 33% to 50% off canvas prints.  With this code they start at just $11.99!  (Order by 12/11 for standard delivery by Christmas.)


Disclosure: I received no compensation for any items in this gift guide though some items were sent to me for review purposes. As always, all opinions are entirely my own.

Making memories at a Stone Mountain Christmas

I love Christmas. LOVE it! And being in the South, I thought I couldn't really experience a traditional Christmas again unless I went home to Wisconsin. But that's not so! All I have to do is head on over to Stone Mountain Park and seep myself in a Stone Mountain Christmas. My family and I were invited to experience this event and I am so glad we were able to go. The lights, music, and even the huge bunch of mistletoe in the middle of the park just screams Christmas. You can't help but to smile and be silly and just enjoy hanging out for a night with the kids.

Sure, the kids stayed up too late and ate too many cookies but we had a family experience that we will not forget. This season it is all about making memories and this is a great place for memories. This Christmas, don't spend money on more "things", spend the cash on a real experience. If you love Christmas, you won't be disappointed. Get more information and my highlights here: Experience a traditional holiday at a Stone Mountain Christmas

Enjoy!

Get your home company ready in 5 minutes or less

No one has ever accused me of being a clean freak.  My house is not the worst, but it is certainly not the best.  However, even with three kids under four years old running around, I do manage to show a presentable house when the neighbors drop by or when it's my turn to host a playdate. I would like to have hours to spend on cleaning my house but that's just not going to happen.  (Actually I would like to have someone else clean my house for hours while I sleep but you know what I mean.)

Here are some FAST tips for making your house presentable (tips I must follow in the next few days):

1. Clean your entryway.  Get rid of clutter, dust the hallway pictures, and "swiffer" the floor.  (The dry cloths pick up dirt, dust, and hair and make your hardwoods shine.)
2. Declutter your house.  Now this doesn't mean find a home for everything right now.  Just take the piles of papers off your counter, clean off your coffee table, and pick up all stray toys from around the house.  If you can't find somewhere to put them, just put them on your bed so you remember to deal with them later.  (And close your door!)  I throw all toys into my little one's playpen just to get them off the floor/table/couch/etc.
3. Use a magic eraser.  I was sent the new Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Extra Power and was really impressed.  It gets crayon, sticky crumbs, and God knows what off my walls very quickly and without much effort.  It works especially well in the bathroom.  Guests don't want to see any "God's know what" on bathroom walls.
4. Can't clean it?  Febreeze it.  (Isn't that what the commercial says?)  I spray the couch, throw pillows, and even the area rug in the foyer.  It really helps to freshen the place up.  I tried the new Febreeze Soy Blend Candle Trio and loved it.  They come in great Fall smells (Pumpkin Harvest and Fall anyone?) and last for 30 hours.  If you don't have any candles or Febreeze, an old trick I have used is to put 2-3 teaspoons of vanilla extract in a pot on the stove.  Let it simmer on low heat and the kitchen will smell like you've been baking.  Of course, you COULD bake something too...
5. Smile.  You don't have to be Martha Stewart...or the hostess with the mostest.  Just welcome guests with a smile and let them know that children and a loving family lives there.  And if anyone dares to try to shame you about the condition of your home, just continue smiling and mentally cross them off the list of any future get togethers.

Enjoy the season!

Disclosure: I was sent cleaning products from Proctor & Gamble to try out.  All opinions are my own.  No compensation was received.

"Why yes...I am pregnant with my 4th child!"

It's true.  The belly has popped out.  The maternity clothes are back in the closet.  The prenatal vitamins are restocked on the shelf.  Yup...Maria's pregnant again!

If you have seen me recently you may have guessed my good news, or maybe you just thought I got a little too into the Halloween candy.  (Both are true.)  My husband and I are expecting our fourth baby in five years next May.  We are super excited, nervous, and anxious all at the same time.  We don't have everything figured out (like where everyone will sleep) but we know for sure that God had a plan for our family and we are thrilled with the way it is turning out.

So it's official: I'm not fat.  I'm pregnant...again!

My belly is growing again!

Top 10 Atlanta holiday events I'm looking forward to this year

Get your Santa hat and break out your "Jingle Bells", the holiday season is rolling into Atlanta!  Here are the top 10 events I can't WAIT to attend or experience this year.  What are you looking forward to?

The brand-new "Holidays in the Garden" experience is sure to be a new Atlanta tradition.

1. Holidays in the Garden at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. The theme is "garden lights, holiday nights" for this holiday experience at the renowned Atlanta Botanical Gardens. Enjoy more then 1 million lights crafted into holiday displays, holiday music and seasonal food and beverages.  Grab your coat and be ready for the chill.  If you're lucky, maybe you'll be able to see your breathe!
2. Stone Mountain Christmas. Experience more than two million lights and a traditional Christmas celebration with music, performances, and a night parade and fireworks to cap it off!
3. Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain.  For anyone who grew up above the Mason-Dixon line, playing in the snow was as much a part of the holiday season as a Christmas tree.  Well now my Atlanta-born kids get to experience making snow angels, building snowmen, and going sledding.  Now to find three pairs of mittens...
4. Pink Pig. So the ride is only 2 minutes long...the memory of riding the famous Macy's Pink Pig at Lenox Square Mall will last a lifetime.  This Atlanta tradition also benefits the great work at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.
5. Children's tea with Santa at St. Regis Atlanta. This one may be a splurge but I think it will be a lasting memory for my tea party-addicted daughter.  Get dressed up, have some tea (or milk) and treats and visit with Santa and Mrs. Clause all at the same time.  Maybe head over to the Astor Ice Skating rink afterward. (Just bring a change of clothes!)
6. Ice Skating Rink at Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Plantation.  Get out of the city (but not too far away) and head over to the beautiful Lake Oconee area to check out the brand-new ice skating pavilion at the Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Plantation. Enjoy Georgia's lake country, take a spin around the ice, and stay for the hot chocolate afterward.  And since ice skating is complimentary to resort guests, why not make it a weekend with one of their family packages?
7. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer at the Center for Puppetry Arts. If you go to the Center for Puppetry Arts once this year, go see Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.  It is sweet but funny and keeps both the little and big kids entertained.  Tickets go FAST so get yours now to avoid being left out of the reindeer games.  (I couldn't resist!)
8. Simon Kidgits "PJ Party with Santa" at Town Center at Cobb. On December 3, 2011 don't bother dressing the kids.  Just head over to Town Center at Cobb to have a PJ party with Santa complete with milk and cookies, Christmas stories, and tons of goodies. 
9. Holiday afternoon tea at the Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead.  This is one event when I will leave the kids at home and head out with some good girlfriends.  The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead has a traditional tea with pastries, mini sandwiches, and delicious teas from around the world. Sure it's not something you do all the time but that's why it is so special. 
10. The Lighting of Atlantic Station on November 19, 2011.  This is one event where all the suburban moms and dads mingle with the hip in-town crowd as they stand shoulder to shoulder to see the lights throughout the entire community start gleaming. The gigantic tree in Central Park will be the area for "snow" in the station through the holiday season.  Great free fun!

(If you're really getting into the holiday season, let me know what you products should be included in our 2011 Holiday Gift Guide!)

Be a part of the 2011 Mamalicious Maria Holiday Gift Guide

Halloween is now over so that means we can officially start looking forward to Christmas.  Yah!  It is my absolute favorite time of the year.  I love the decorations, music, events, church services, and most definitely the Christmas shopping.  This year, I will be creating a holiday gift guide to help moms everywhere find unique, fun, but value-driven gifts for this holiday season.

The gift guide will have 4 different sections: Mamalicious, Daddylicious, Babylicious (or kidlicious), and Budgetlicious (under $20).  One section will be featured each day Thanksgiving week, just in time for Black Friday!  Know something I should include?  Have a favorite product other moms need to know about?  Work with a company that has a product I need to see?  Comment here or email me (mariarosepr@yahoo.com) and tell me about it!

Stay tuned for lots of great ideas!