Tropical Traditions ~ Organic Insect Repellent and Moisturizer {giveaway}

Last summer was one of the wettest summers I can ever remember. With wet weather comes an abundance of pesky mosquitoes. Coupled with a wet summer and then a winter which had above average temperatures and little snow fall, we are already feeling the effects...and mosquitoes are plentiful this year.

Not just bothersome to us when we are trying to enjoy our backyards and parks, they are dangerous. Over the last few years there have been public health campaigns to raise awareness of the dangers of mosquito bites. Each year there seems to be more and more cases of West Nile and it is scary to me as a mom of kids which love to run and play outside. And, I don't want to keep them inside just to avoid being bitten...our summers are short.

But, on the other hand I don't want to lathering on dangerous insect repellents that would be leaching into their bodies. I was thrilled to find that Tropical Traditions carries an Organic Insect Repellent and Moisturizer.

Tropical Traditions all natural insect repellent is made from only the finest ingredients available, and is therefore completely safe for children and for application to the entire body including the face. They use no harmful chemicals or artificial fragrances.

The base, as with all their skin care products is their very own Organic Virgin Coconut Oil. Natural coconut oil has been used to apply to the skin and ward off insects traditionally in tropical climates for hundreds of years. In addition, they have added pure organic essential oils know to repel insects, including citronella, lemongrass, peppermint, tansy and catnip.

This year, I am armed with Tropical Traditions Organic Insect Repellent, and I am saying bring on those mosquitoes and other nasty biting bugs. For the first time I will not be cringing when I slather repellent on my children and feel confident that they are protected against those insects. My kids will be taking Organic Insect Repellent with them as they head off to their week at summer camp. And, we when we head north to our cottage...I will put on the repellent first thing in the morning, as there is always bugs waiting to take a bite.

Thank you to Tropical Traditions for sending me a bottle for my family to try and I am so grateful. Finally my mind is at ease...I am confident that the kids have protection against insects, and it is done safely. Bring on the outside fun!

Don't forget that Tropical Traditions carries an amazing line of coconut products and you can also find great coconut recipes.

~ A Giveaway ~

Thank you to Tropical Traditions for offering another giveaway at Country Mouse, City Mouse. This time one reader will win a bottle of Organic Insect Repellent and Moisturizer.


Mandatory Entry

Sign up for the newsletter from Tropical Traditions.


Additional Entries

'Like' Tropical Traditions on facebook

Follow Tropical Traditions on twitter

Follow me on twitter

Follow my blog

Post my button, let me know where I can find it

Facebook network blogs (lower left column)

Subscribe to my email updates

Check out the coconut recipes at Tropical Traditions...which would you like to try

Spread the word about this giveaway - blog or tweet
**tweet daily for extra entry**

@ccmouse ~ Organic Insect Repellent and Moisturizer from Tropical Traditions! #giveaway http://tinyurl.com/38gulw2

This giveaway is open to Canada and USA
This giveaway is open from May 9 - 30, 2010
Please ensure your email is visible
Winner will be contacted by email and have 48 hours to respond
This blog bares no responsibility for the delivery of this prize
Prize will be shipped by the sponsor

GOOD LUCK!

Disclaimer: I was offered a sample for my review, I was under no pressure to provide a review of that item. Opinions expressed are mine, your could differ. Use your judgment when making a purchase.

Congratulations!
~ comment #4 ~
~ deb c ~

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London Bridge Children ~ Unique Bedding, Art, Gifts & Decor

If you read my blog regularly you know how much I love and seek out personalized items and products. London Bridge Children is easily filling the need for personalized wall art for children. Perfect for your child's nursery or bedroom, artwork from London Bridge Children will be treasured and loved throughout your son or daughter's childhood.


Lori, the artist and owner of London Bridge Children is a mom of four kids and those children are her inspiration for her artwork. While, London Bridge Children is anchored by their whimsical wall art, Lori is branching out and introducing other items available through her on-line store.

Visiting London Bridge Children you are going to find it is a one-stop-shop for baby bedding, to cute little fleece hats. London Bridge Children also has the super-popular Custom Hand Stamped Necklaces. And, a great offer to be taken advantage of is free shipping on all items in USA and Canada!


Lori sent Jillian a personalized print for us to enjoy in our home. I choose a print of a blond girl sitting on a swing. Lori printed Jillian's name on the tree branch. I love the nostalgic feel of the print...a feel of innocence that can only be that of childhood.

Our print is beautiful, Lori's choice of colours are fresh and reminiscent of spring-time in a meadow. With prices starting at just $18.00...it makes these very affordable and great to give as gifts as well. I would of loved a print like this for a baby shower gift. Most importantly, when I showed Jillian the print she immediately gasped and said 'that's Jillian!'

I have framed art that was given to me as a child, items that hold a special place in my heart. I am hoping Jillian will cherish this print throughout her life and take it with her someday (a day far, far away from today) when she is leaving home. I hope it reminds her of her childhood and puts a smile on her face.



Take a look through all of the choices available at London Bridge Children. You are sure to find one that fits your child or children perfectly. London Bridge Children is a beautiful addition to any bedroom.

Made with love and attention to detail you will be as equally impressed with the wall art from London Bridge Children!

www.londonbridgechildren.com

Disclaimer: I was sent a print for our review. Opinions expressed are mine, yours may differ. Use your judgment when making a purchase.

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Eleven Collection {giveaway}

Eleven Collection ~ Who can resist the children's shoes available from Eleven? (I, for one, can not.) I have found many shoes for children on the internet, but, without a doubt, Eleven is the best! Not only are the shoes from Eleven adorable, they are excellent value. Buy with confidence at Eleven.

The spring/summer collection from Eleven was recently released and they have outdone themselves (again)!


When we received word that Jillian would be reviewing a pair of Eleven Collection spring shoes, I let her pick out which ones she liked. That tells you, that no matter the choice...you will always be satisfied with what you receive. Jillian was instantly drawn to Chloe ~ Berry. She likes them for the bright pink colour and the easy on and off with adjustable velcro. I like them for not just the pretty spring colour, but for the cushioned insole and padding around the collar. With Eleven, there isn't any wear-in period, the shoes are comfortable from the first time they are slipped on.

Oh, Eleven, how I love thee....

These shoes are made to last, your child can wear them day in and out and they still look great. If you need to, just simply wipe off with a damp cloth.

Their styles are timeless classics each and every season. But, at the same time, they are always up-to-date with their colours and accents



You can dress your child in Eleven shoes for special occasions, but they are also equally as great for every day play.

Eleven shoes are naturally water repellent.


As a mom of a boy, I know cute shoes for boys are hard to come by. Just this past Christmas I bought a pair for Eleven's for my son, Matthew. He wore them until they no longer fit and (here is a true testament for the durability of Eleven), they still look great. Matthew goes through shoes very quickly, he tends to drag his toes and the soles always come apart from the shoe. Eleven is the first shoe that outlasted the boy!

In the short time Jillian has had her new shoes, we are receiving compliments everywhere we go. If you live in a rural area (as we do) and selection and quality is limited, then Eleven is just what you have been looking for. We are so pleased with our selection and I am sure Jillian will enjoy wearing her shoes the whole season through!

www.elevencollection.com

Celebrate spring with a pair of Eleven shoes for your child ~ use code countrymousecitymouse20 to receive a 20% off discount!

~ A Giveaway ~

Eleven is offering to give one Country Mouse, City Mouse reader their choice of shoe. (shoes are subject to availability)


Mandatory Entry

Visit Eleven and choose which shoe you would request if you are the winner.

mandatory entry must be complete in order to qualify for additional entries


Additional Entries

Send an email to get on the mailing list

Follow Eleven on twitter

'Like' Eleven on facebook

Follow my blog

Subscribe by email to my blog

Post my button, let me know where to find it

Facebook network blogs (lower left column)

Follow me on twitter

Spread the word about this giveaway - blog or tweet
*tweet daily for extra entry*

@ccmouse ~ Win a pair of children's shoes from Eleven! http://tinyurl.com/2cd7sq8 #giveaway

This giveaway is open to Canada and USA
This giveaway will run from April 26 - May 16, 2010
Please ensure your email is visible
Winner will be contacted by email and have 48 hours to respond
This blog bares no responsibility for the delivery of this prize
Thank you to Eleven for this review and giveaway opportunity


GOOD LUCK!

Disclaimer: I was sent a pair of shoes for our review. Opinions expressed are mine, yours could differ. Use your judgment when making a purchase.

Congratulations!
~ kathyluman ~
~ comment # 218 ~

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Snorg Tees {giveaway}

Snorg Tees ~ specializes in pop-culture inspired, random and all around funny t-shirt designs.

Unknown to me, my hubby is a huge fan of Snorg Tees. When I started to check out the t-shirts available at SnorgTees I thought that the shirts were right up his alley. They screamed of his sense of humour and I knew I was going to be able to find one that he was going to love for this review.

Assistant Regional Manager

Gimme Some Sugar, Baby

Without telling my hubby we were going to be doing a review for Snorg Tees,, I looked through the shirts and tried to choose a shirt that I thought he would love wearing. I wanted to find a shirt that was quirky and was going to make him laugh. Snorg Tees has a large selection of shirts, and choosing one was not an easy task. Snorg Tees definitely is the place to visit when one is looking for shirts which are sure to make you laugh.

As I was looking, I came across a shirt which I knew for sure my hubby was going to love, and it is based on one of his favourite movies.

When our package arrived from Snorg Tees arrived, I handed it to my hubby, he was as excited as a child and said - I love Snorg Tees!

Inside, I had chosen:

My hubby loves the movie and the song and started to laugh as soon as he saw the shirt. I was so excited that he loved it, (you know it is sometimes difficult to find things for your hubby that he is going to get excited about.)





I have washed his shirt a few times and there are no issues with shrinkage or fading. I love that the t-shirt itself has some weight, so often now the t-shirts available seem to be paper thin.

www.snorgtees.com

Take a look at Snorg Tees, you will find yourself chuckling as you browse. Let your sense of humour be your guide!

A Giveaway!

One lucky Country Mouse, City Mouse reader is going to be the winner of their choice of tee from Snorg Tees!


Mandatory Entry

Tell me which shirt you would choose if you are the winner.

this entry must be complete if you wish to qualify for additional entries


Additional Entries

Follow my blog

Subscribe to my emails

Post my button, leave a link so I can find it

Facebook network blogs (lower left column)

Follow me on twitter

Spread the word - blog or tweet
*tweet daily for extra entry*

@ccmouse ~ Let your sense of humour be your guide. Win a Snorg Tee http://tinyurl.com/2be6a7e #giveaway

This giveaway is open to Canada and USA
This giveaway will run from April 25 - May 15, 2010
Please ensure your email is visible
Winner will be contacted by email and have 48 hours to respond
This blog bares no responsibility for the delivery of this prize
Thank you to Snorg Tees for this review and giveaway opportunity

GOOD LUCK!

Disclaimer: I was sent a t-shirt for my review. Opinions expressed are mine, yours could differ. Use your judgment when making a purchase.

Congratulations!
~ Rebecca O ~
~ comment # 246 ~

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hydraSense

As a new mom I was nervous about all the unknowns of bringing home a new baby. It certainly doesn't help when your helpless baby becomes sick with a cold. One of the hardest things for a mom is the inability to help your baby when they are sick. Often times I would find myself beyond exhaustion as I tried to help my baby clear their nose and breath. We tried everything including sitting in the bathroom with the shower running (to create steam), to the baby sleeping upright on our chests.






For our review we were sent a hydraSense gift pack. Honestly, I was not familiar with hydraSense before I received the product for review. Now, though, I think that hydraSense is brilliant!

~ Hydrating Nasal Care ~
Cleanses excessive mucus accumulation caused by allergies, colds and upper respiratory infections. It also reduces the duration of cold symptoms and occurrence of complications.
Relieves nasal dryness.

~ Nasal Aspirator Plus ~
Ensures a hygienic aspiration by trapping excess mucus while gently relieving your baby's nasal congestion quickly and effectively.
Also, helps to maintain clear breathing and to facilitate eating and sleeping. Can be used when relief from nasal discharge is desired, even in newborns.

We all know that young children are not able of blowing their nose. hydraSense is an effective and simple method of cleansing and soothing infants' nasal cavities to help them blow their nose. hydraSense can be used daily to gently cleanse excessive mucus accumulation in congested nasal cavities caused by allergies or colds. It also reduces nasal dryness due to dust or dry air, and moisturizes crusty noses.

If your babies are anything like mine...they developed colds shortly after birth. I can only wish that I was armed with hydraSense back then. But, I am fortunate to offer this product to my sister who's baby has constantly had a runny nose this cold season.

This would be a great product to have in your home if you are the parent of a baby or young child. After all, we all know that babies become sickest at night, hydraSense in your medicine cabinet will give your peace of mind.

Join the Dolphin Club! Join by April 10, 2010 and you can download an exclusive coupon. Log into your account and enter the code MC2010 under the online coupons code tab, you will receive and $8.00 off coupon to be used toward the purchase of a hydraSense Nasal Aspirator.


Disclaimer:
I wrote this post while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central and received a Mom Central gift pack to thank me for taking the time to participate.

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Country Bob's Cookbook

Sour Cream Meat Loaf

1 1/2 cups sour cream
2 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce
1 can sliced mushrooms, drained
2 LBS lean ground beef
1 1/2 cups soft bread crumbs
2 eggs
1/4 cup milk
2 teaspoons salt

Combine the sour cream, green onions, Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce and mushrooms in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside. Combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, eggs, milk and salt in a large bowl and mix well.

Shape the mixture into a long 4 inch wide rectangle in an un-greased shallow baking dish. Make a 2 inch deep well lengthwise down the center of the loaf. Spoon the sour cream mixture into the well. Leave the sour cream mixture exposed.

Bake at 350 degrees for 1 to 1 1/4 hours or until the loaf is cooked through. Remove the loaf to a serving plate.

(recipe taken from The Original Country Bob's Cookbook)

Last month we reviewed Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce. We loved it so much that my hubby bought a case. Don't forget we aren't able to purchase Country Bob's Sauce in Canada, so we had it delivered to my sister's in Michigan and she delivered our case of sauce to us when she visited.

With our review we held a giveaway, the winner was a fellow Ontarian...I hope she is enjoying her sauce. We have given another bottle away to hubby's parents...so slowly we are introducing Ontario to Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce (one bottle at a time)!

Just as we were receiving our case of Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce, we got a surprise in our mailbox! Thank you so much to Country Bob's for sending us a copy of their original cookbook.

We have really enjoyed trying out numerous recipes. This cookbook is loaded with delicious recipes all using our favourite sauce. (There are even desserts at the end of the cookbook...sooo good...)

If you like Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce, you are going to love Country Bob's Cookbook!

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They're Your Parents Too!

...How Siblings Can Survive Their Parent's Aging Without Driving Each Other Crazy
By: Francine Russo

One of the hardest things for me is watching my parents become older. With age, comes a whole host of problems which I find I am not prepared to deal with...after all, I still see my parents as forty year olds. Reality is though, aging is part of life, health issues, mobility issues and just general safety concerns comes with age.

As my parents are approaching their seventies I know that I am going to have to find the strength and knowledge to make the best decisions for them. But, the bigger issue for me is having them accept the fact that maybe they can no longer do what they were once able to do. Compounding the issue is having a brother and sister who are both individuals with opinions that are bound to differ from my own.

So, as I approach these years I was so happy to find a resource in the book They're Your Parents Too!

They're Your Parents Too, by Francine Russo is a book which I am going to be referring to often as the years go on. Some of the topics covered in the book include:

~ Who will be the decision maker?
~ How will it be decided who is the decision maker?
~ How will hurt feelings be handled and minimized when dividing property and inheritance?
~ How to cope with reemergence of unresolved childhood rivalries?
~ How can caring for parents be an enriching experience?
~ How can you ensure the best care for your parents?

Your parents are starting to slow down, be forgetful, or worse. Suddenly you find yourself at the cusp of one of the most important transitions in your life. Your parents need you and your siblings to step up and take care of them, a little or a lot. To make the right things happen, you will need to work together. Yet, your siblings may have very different ideas from yours of what's best for mom and dad. Sometimes, siblings are completely uninterested in helping, leaving you with all the responsibility. Or, they may take charge and not allow you to help, or criticize whatever help you do give. Will you and your siblings be able to reach an understanding and work together?

Aging parents are stressful. We all want to give them the best, but often times our own pride gets in the way. With some planning and having the right resources, be prepared and know how to re-act before the situations arise. I highly recommend They're Your Parents Too, the book is full of great advice and will help to guide you through a time which is already hard enough. And, help us to come out on the other side being friends and having a closer relationship with our siblings.



Disclaimer: I was offered a book for my review. Opinions expressed are my own, please use your judgment when making a purchase.

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Just Jen

We were so excited to receive shirts for Just Jen for our review. I love these shirts and so do the girls! Thank you to Just Jen for sending us matching Lil Sister and Big Sister shirts.

Just Jen ~ find the custom t-shirt of your dreams at JustJen.com. All of their sparkling t-shirts and clothing are embellished with genuine Swarovski crystal rhinestones. Shop for Bride Shirts, Big Sister t-shirts, Cheerleading t-shirts, Birthday t-shirts or create your own custom designs online.

Emily chose the 3/4 raglan sleeve Big Sister T-shirt for herself. It is a 100% cotton t-shirt adorned with beautiful sparkly crystals and it is made in North America. For Jillian we went with an identical Lil Sister shirt. And, they look adorable. I let the girls wear their custom shirts for Emily's birthday party and everyone thought the t-shirts were fabulous.

After wearing I washed the shirts inside out on gentle and hung to dry. I can report there weren't any problems with any of the crystals coming loose or falling off.

I think these shirts are just about the cutest thing ever. I love dressing my kids in matching clothing, but with such an age difference it just doesn't happen. Just Jen gave me the option of finding fun, great quality shirts at a great price. Right now Big Sister shirt is on sale for $31.90 (US) and Little Sister is $26.90 (US) Just Jen also gives you the choice of personalizing your shirt for a small fee.

Check out Just Jen, they have a great line of Big Sister shirts , Little Sister, Middle Sister and Sister to Bee shirts. Along with their bridal and maternity lines, you will find that Just Jen has a super cute shirt for any season of life.

Disclaimer: I was sent two t-shirts for the purpose of this review. Opinions expressed are mine. Use your judgment when making a purchase.

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Curious George 2: Follow that Monkey

The world's most beloved and inquisitive monkey is back in Curious George 2 : Follow That Monkey, the fun filled sequel to the hit animated movie. Join Curious George and The Man with the Yellow Hat as they set out on a madcap cross-country adventure to reunite Kayla, a homesick elephant, with her family. This unlikely trio faces all types of comic calamities and colourful characters and in the end, learn that with family, friends and determination, you can achieve anything.

My children, especially my six year old Matthew have long been fans of Curious George...and when I asked him to watch the movie and let me know if he enjoyed it, he said yeah sure! Since receiving our review copy last week he has enjoyed this show a few times, all the while laughing his head off. Matthew's favourite part is that most of this movie takes place on a train! I thought it was adorable how Matthew explained the movie to me all the while laughing and giggling...a sure sign that Curious George 2: Follow that Monkey is a hit!

I love Curious George, he is such a cutie and his shenanigans are always so innocent and fun.

Curious George 2: Follow that Monkey has some exciting bonus features:

~ Two never before seen bonus shows ~

~ Curious George's cross-country caper game ~

~ Music video ~

~ Colouring pages and wallpapers ~

Curious George 2: Follow that Monkey is released today for a suggested retail of $19.99 (US). Be sure to visit Curious George at his website or his Facebook page!



Disclaimer: I was sent a review copy of this movie. Any opinions expressed are my own. Use your judgment when making a purchase.

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LuShae Jewelry

Jewelry art designs offers a unique range of authentic sterling silver jewelry with a wide range of precious and semi precious gemstones. LuShae Jewelry follows celebrity and fashion jewelry trends sourcing the most contemporary high grade pieces available ensuring unmatched quality and value.

Jewelry art designs is where you will find a stunning collection of individually handcrafted jewelry. LuShae specializes in cultured freshwater and saltwater pearls, precious and semi-precious gemstones and precious metals.

Oh la la! Thank you to LuShae Jewelry for sending me a gorgeous ring for my review. After looking long and hard at their website I finally made the decision to go with the pink promise ring. The dramatic pink of the center stone against the white gold makes this ring so special.

I love wearing this ring as EVERYONE notices it and comments and compliments this beautiful piece of jewelry. I am wearing in on my finger next to my anniversary band, and the pink promise ring is just as sparkly and pretty as that more expensive ring. My oldest daughter is dying for me to let her try it on, but I haven't given in to her yet:) She keeps reminding me that her birthday is coming up shortly...she may just get something from LuShae, their prices are really reasonable. The ring I was sent for review is on sale for $72.00!



Visit LuShae and find earrings, pendants, and of course rings!

The pink promise ring features white gold rhodium bonded set with prong set heart cut pink CZ and Pave Clear CZ in Silvertone.

Bloggers, don't forget to get involved with LuShae's monthly giveaways. You can find the info here.

Disclaimer: I was sent a ring for my review. These are my opinions. Use your judgment when making a purchase.

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