Congratulations Mom vs The Boys (comment 380) you have won a Hands & Feet Sampler Set from Upper Canada Soap. I will e-mail you soon.
Thanks to Upper Canada Soap and to everyone who entered.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
Artterro Creative Art Kits {Review and Giveaway}
As the mom of three very creative girls, we spend a lot of time crafting and creating art. A wonderful eco-friendly choice for art kits is Artterro. They make beautiful art kits that feature natural materials and open ended projects to encourage creativity. Artterro has a great selection of natural and fun kit choices that are designed for friends and family to create and learn together.
Artterro Kits have won numerous awards for their creativity inspiring art kits and I can see why. We tried two Artterro art kits ( the Paint with Wool Kit and the Bubble Wand Kit) and we really enjoyed them both. Art projects really bring our family together and are a great way to spend quality time. Both kits were perfect for girls night with my older girls (once the little one was asleep), and would also make lovely gifts for an artistic child. I have been especially impressed with the quality of the art supplies, both kits were free of any plastics and only contained natural high quality materials. They are also very earth-friendly containing natural products and minimal recycled/recyclable eco-packaging.
We have been wanting to start needle felting for sometime now, so we were thrilled to try out the Artterro needle felting kit. The kit contains 4 natural wool canvases, three felting needles, and 13 bright colors of roving wool. The instructions are easy and the tips sheet gave us so many wonderful ideas. The Artterro Paint with Wool Kit is truly a project that all ages can enjoy. All three of my girls had fun with the kit for hours (even my youngest could take part with me doing the needling). Its really easy and fun, and my girls really were able to let their creativity shine through. It was fun for me too, needle felting is so relaxing and it was a great way to spend an evening with my girls.
We also tried the lovely Bubble Wands Kit by Artterro. It features thick quality copper wrapping wire, wand sticks, and marbles. It also offers easy patterns, a recipe for making your own bubbles, and a great ideas sheet. I love that Artterro kits are very free-flow, allowing my girls to decide how they will use the supplies. Since my girls love faerie play, they decided to make faerie wands with the Bubble Wands Kit. For this project they wrapped wire in fun designs making beautiful wands full of magic. We all had a lot of fun with this project, and my girls feel very proud of their creations.
Shop: Artterro Kits can be bought online at Ekobear.ca ( a lovely Canadian online store) or at these fine retailers across Canada and the US. They retail for 22.95 CAD.
Other Wonderful Artterro Kits:
• Art Dolls Kit
• Creativity Kit
• Bookmaking Kit• Paint With Wool Portrait Kit
• Colllage Decoration Kit
• Collage Jewelry Kit
• Canvas Storybook Kit
• Wire and Bead Art Kit
• Wool Felt Wearables Kit
• Garden Art Kit
The Giveaway: Eko Bear (a fabulous Canadian retailer of Artterro Kits) has generously offered to give one of my readers their choice of any Artterro Art Kit in stock.
To Enter: Please visit Eko Bear and then comment below with another item that you love from this shop. (this first entry is mandatory and must be completed before addition entries will count)
Additional Entries:
~Follow my blog (two entries, leave two comments)
~Like Artterro Creative Art Kits on Facebook and comment
~Like Ekobear on Facebook and comment
~Like Natural Mama Reviews on facebook and comment
~Follow Arterro on twitter and comment
~Follow Ekobear on Twitter and comment
~Follow me on Twitter and tweet " Win an Artterro Art Kit from @Ekobeartoys http://bit.ly/i9heOL @mamareviews @artterro #giveaway #win" (daily tweet) leave a link
~Subscribe to my blog on left and comment
~Grab my blog button on the left and comment
~Blog about this giveaway and comment with a link
This Giveaway ends on March 16th at 9pm. Winner will be chosen using Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to my e-mail before a new name is drawn. One entry (plus mentioned additional entries) per household. Open to the US and Canada.
The opinions expressed in the above review are my honest experiences, and thoughts. I did not receive any money for writing this review.
{This Moment}
A Friday ritual inspired by Soule Mama
A single photo that captures a special moment of the week.
Enjoying the last of winter
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Tomat Kids Winner
Congratulations Andrea (comment 139) you have won an addable organic onesie from Tomat Kids. I will be in touch soon.
Thanks to everyone who entered and to Tomat Kids for sponsoring this giveaway.
Mondor Tights {Review}
My go-to outfit this year has been tights and dresses. This look is slimming, feminine, comfortable, and is a needed departure from my mom jeans/yoga pants rut. In my search for quality tights that are made with eco-friendly materials I came across Mondor. This Canadian company makes high quality fashion and performance tights that fit beautifully and are available in the most amazing colors.
Mondor has two categories of tights- those designed for life (their Style Line) and those designed for sports (their Performance Line). Both have a great selection and offer eco options like natural merino wool and bamboo. I was sent three pairs of Mondor Style Tights and I have been really happy with their fit, comfort, and quality.
If the weather is cold where you live, natural wool tights are a good choice. They are so cozy, and wool naturally lets your skin breath while keeping you toasty. I tried Mondor's Cable Pattern Merino Wool Tights (5384) and they are wonderful. They are warm enough for even the coldest of days and are incredibly comfortable. The cable-knit design is also classically stylish, pretty, and adds interest to any outfit.
I also tried two pairs of Bamboo Tights from Mondor's Nature Line (5394 and 5390) and completely love them both. They are luxuriously soft and so very comfortable. Mondor tights are really designed with fit in mind, and never bunch up or cut into my waste like other tights I've tried. The Bamboo rayon is not only eco-friendly, but it is also the perfect fabric for tights because it is breathable, soft, and warm. I have especially been loving my Mondor footless tights which allow me to wear thick socks and boots.
Mondor is a company committed to being eco-friendly. They use manufacturing processes that are gentle on the earth, including eco-dying practices. Their tights are also made fair trade in Canada. If you are looking for some stylish tights to break the mom rut or have a little one is dance or skating I completely recommend Mondor.
Shop: Mondor Tights can be found at clothing and dance stores across the globe. Visit Mondor.com to find a retailer near you.
Connect: Like Mondor on facebook or follow them on twitter.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Bear Feet Shoes {Review and Giveaway}
We are a family that loves to go shoeless, and many studies show that bare feet are actually best for kids feet as they grow. Bear Feet Shoes are the next best thing to bare feet. These quality made shoes are great because they mold to the unique shape of your child's feet- protecting the feet without forcing the feet to conform. Bear Feet Shoes makes high quality soft baby shoes, flexible kid shoes, and Special occasion shoes - that are all completely hip, unique, and creatively designed.
~Follow the Bear Feet Shoe's Blog and comment
~Like Bear Feet Shoes on facebook and comment
~Like Natural Mama Reviews on facebook and comment
~Follow Bear Feet Shoes on Twitter and comment
~Follow me on Twitter and tweet " Win an pair of handmade shoes from Bear Feet Shoes http://bit.ly/dJ5yIO @mamareviews @bearfeetshoes #giveaway #win #shoes" (daily tweet) leave a link
~Subscribe to my blog on left and comment
~Grab my blog button on the left and comment
~Blog about this giveaway and comment with a link
~Enter another giveaway on my Blog and comment
This Giveaway ends on March 10th at 9pm. Winner will be chosen using Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to my e-mail before a new name is drawn. One entry (plus mentioned additional entries) per household. Open Worldwide!
The opinions expressed in the above review are my honest experiences, and thoughts. I did not receive any money for writing this review.
I have been very impressed with the quality, attention to detail and great design of Bear Feet Shoes. Each shoe is made by hand in the US - using old fashioned shoe making techniques. They use the highest quality materials, sourced from the US and Europe. They strive to be eco-friendly and ethical, producing absolutely no chemical waste, using no formaldehyde, being fair trade, and donating/recycling all scraps and secounds. Best of all, Bear Feet Shoes completely stands by their shoes - offering a lifetime craftsmanship guarantee.
My daughter has a pair of Bear Feet Tie Sandals in gold, and she loves them. In-fact, they are so comfortable that she asks to wear them everyday. In our part of the world it is still much too cold for sandals, but she throws caution fashion the wind and wears them every day with socks! The Tie Sandals are also a favorite because they are quick and easy to get on and off, are play friendly, and are very durable. I found the sizing to be a little big, but the tie design allows them to be easily adjustable by tying the laces tighter (and frugal moms like me can buy a little bigger and get extra wear). Isn't the color and design great too? They remind me of a shoe a little Greek princess would wear.
Another thing that really sets Bear Feet Shoes apart from other shoes is the fact that the soles are made from completely natural rubber. Unlike almost all the other flexible shoes on the market, Bear Feet Shoes doesn't use plastics or petroleum products in their soles. Their soft rubber soles are made using sustainable natural rubber that is tapped from the Hevea Tree, without harming the tree (like maple syrup). The Natural Rubber is not only eco-friendly, but it also is perfectly suited to children's footwear. I have found the soles of our Bear Feet Shoes to be very soft and flexible. In-fact, they have an almost gummy texture that that really grips the ground (allowing my little one to run and play on any surface without slipping).
Shop: Bear Feet Shoes can be purchased online from BearFeet.com. They make shoes for babies, toddlers, kids, and now women. The Tie Sandal reviewed above is available in 25 colors and retails for $39 US. As mentioned all Bear Feet Shoes come with a Lifetime Craftmanship Garantee.
The Giveaway: Bear Feet Shoes has generously offered to give one of my readers any pair of their new tie-on line (Tie Boot, Tie Sandal, Tie Flower Power Boot or Tie Flower Sandal,).
To Enter: Visit Bear Feet Shoes and have a look at all of their lovely hand-made shoes, then comment below with your favorite pair. (this first entry is mandatory and must be completed before addition entries will count)
Additional Entries:
~Follow my blog (two entries, leave two comments)~Follow the Bear Feet Shoe's Blog and comment
~Like Bear Feet Shoes on facebook and comment
~Like Natural Mama Reviews on facebook and comment
~Follow Bear Feet Shoes on Twitter and comment
~Follow me on Twitter and tweet " Win an pair of handmade shoes from Bear Feet Shoes http://bit.ly/dJ5yIO @mamareviews @bearfeetshoes #giveaway #win #shoes" (daily tweet) leave a link
~Subscribe to my blog on left and comment
~Grab my blog button on the left and comment
~Blog about this giveaway and comment with a link
~Enter another giveaway on my Blog and comment
This Giveaway ends on March 10th at 9pm. Winner will be chosen using Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to my e-mail before a new name is drawn. One entry (plus mentioned additional entries) per household. Open Worldwide!
The opinions expressed in the above review are my honest experiences, and thoughts. I did not receive any money for writing this review.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Spring Cleaning with Nature Clean {Review}
Its that time of year again- spring cleaning time that is. The snow is melting, the days are getting longer, and I am getting those uncharacteristic urges to clean my entire house. Time to load up on natural cleaners. A brand that I have just started using is Nature Clean and I have been really happy with it. This Canadian business has a wonderful line of natural and non-toxic household cleaners that are safe, made with all-natural ingredients, and are gentle on the planet. They are by far the most natural cleaners I have tried, containing 99.5 - 99.9% natural ingredients. Keep reading to learn my thoughts on some of their most popular products.
Glass and Window Cleaner
Tub & Tile Cream Cleanser
If you are looking for a natural non-scratch cleanser for your tub and tile work, Nature Clean Tub and Tile Cleaner is good gentle chlorine free choice. I have been using it in my bathroom and it works great at removing grime and soap-scum without damaging our vintage tub or tiles. I didn't find it strong enough to remove mold, mildew, or set in stains, but I was still happy with the results. I value that Nature Clean Tub and Tile Cream Cleanser is gentle enough to use in my tub, where my daughters spend so much time. I also really like that it is scent free and doesn't leave residue on my tile.
Multi-Surface Cleaner & Degreaser
This is a great all-purpose cleaner that I have been using all over my house. I love that like the other cleaners reviewed above it has no smell and does not release irritating fumes. It is also ammonia free and is gentle enough to use around pets and kids. I have found the Nature Clean Multi-Surface Cleaner and Degreaser works especially great in the kitchen; getting counters, walls, and appliances clean and grease free.
Glass and Window Cleaner
Did you know that most window cleaners contain ammonia, which is super toxic and a suspected carcinogen? I didn't, but since learning I have switched to natural window cleaners and have never looked back. Nature Clean Glass & Window Cleaner is a great ammonia-free way to get your windows and mirrors beautifully clean. It contains Witch Hazel (a natural astringent and antiseptic) along with other plant based ingredients to get windows and glass clean and streak free. I have been really impressed with how well Nature Clean's Glass and Window Cleaner works. I have been using it to clean all my windows and mirrors, and it removes even the greasiest hand-prints and pet prints easily and quickly. I also love that this cleaner has no scent, making it perfect for those with scent sensitivities.
Since making the switch to natural cleaners last year, the one thing I have been missing is a good air freshener. Well that was before I tried Nature Clean's Air Freshener. This natural air freshener works as good or better than chemical air fresheners, but its non-toxic and biodegradable. I tried the Lavender & Warm Vanilla scent and it smells delicious (like a lavender butter-cookie- yumm). I have been using it for bathroom odors, pet odors, and kitchen odors. It works great at eliminating any bad odor and it leaves my house smelling fresh. I love that it uses natural essential oils and doesn't leave any chemical residue in my home. It is also completely safe for use around children and pets. Tub & Tile Cream Cleanser
If you are looking for a natural non-scratch cleanser for your tub and tile work, Nature Clean Tub and Tile Cleaner is good gentle chlorine free choice. I have been using it in my bathroom and it works great at removing grime and soap-scum without damaging our vintage tub or tiles. I didn't find it strong enough to remove mold, mildew, or set in stains, but I was still happy with the results. I value that Nature Clean Tub and Tile Cream Cleanser is gentle enough to use in my tub, where my daughters spend so much time. I also really like that it is scent free and doesn't leave residue on my tile.
Multi-Surface Cleaner & Degreaser
This is a great all-purpose cleaner that I have been using all over my house. I love that like the other cleaners reviewed above it has no smell and does not release irritating fumes. It is also ammonia free and is gentle enough to use around pets and kids. I have found the Nature Clean Multi-Surface Cleaner and Degreaser works especially great in the kitchen; getting counters, walls, and appliances clean and grease free.
As you can see I have been really impressed with how gentle, yet effective, Nature Clean products are. They are non-toxic, biodegradable, not tested on animals, and are proudly made in Canada. I really value that Nature Clean makes truly safe products and ensures that the ingredients used are NOT listed with the National Toxicology Program, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and American Conference of Government Industrial Hygenists (so they contain NO suspected carcinogens). Nature Clean products are definitely cleaners that I trust to use around my children and I completely recommend them. I also really like that they also offer an eco-refill option to further reduce the footprint of their cleaners.
Shop: Nature Clean Products can be found across Canada at Canadian Tire, Health Food Stores, London Drugs, Quality Foods, Toys R Us, and more. They can also be purchased online at NatureCleanLiving.com
Connect With Nature Clean: To learn more about safe and natural products for your home and family, Like Nature Clean on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Beco Baby Carrier WINNER
I am so excited to announce the winner of the beco Butterfly 2 Baby Carrier. Congratulations to Jessica (comment # 536) you have won a lovely Lauren beco Butterfly Carrier. I hope this carrier brings you and your loved ones as much joy as I get from mine. I will e-mail you very soon.
Thanks to all the mamas who entered this giveaway and to beco for generously sponsoring.
Thanks to all the mamas who entered this giveaway and to beco for generously sponsoring.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Green Beaver Gluten Free {Review and Giveaway}
Do you or someone in your family have gluten intolerance's? If so Green Beaver has just released a line of gluten free personal care products specially designed for those who do not tolerate gluten or who have Celiac Disease. This natural line is the first organic gluten free line and includes lip balm, shampoo/conditioner, body lotion, and body wash. Like all Green Beaver products their new Gluten Free line is natural, eco-friendly, and made in Canada.
Why Gluten Free? In recent years their has been an increased awareness of Celiac Disease and gluten intolerance. In fact it is estimated that 1 in 133 Canadians is affected by celiac disease ( an auto-immune disorder characterized by intolerance to gluten proteins found in grains including wheat). Gluten is often found in personal care products, which can cause problems when accidentally ingested (even in minute amounts). Some people with Celiac Disease also suffer from skin irritations when gluten is applied topically. Green Beaver's Gluten Free line is a great choice for anyone who avoids gluten; it works great and contains only pure and natural ingredients.
I was sent Green Beaver's Gluten Free Body Wash for review and have been really happy with it. This 100% natural wash works great in place of soap to gently and effectively clean you from head to toe. Besides being gluten free, this wash is also organic, biodegradable, vegan, and not tested on animals. It has a great citrus lavender scent that smells wonderful and is refreshing too. I also love how it cleans while moisturising and does not dry out my skin like many soaps. Even though I am not gluten intolerant, this is a great natural body wash that I will definitely be using for sometime.
Like all Green Beaver Products their new Gluten Free line is free from of all of the toxic ingredients so often found in personal care products. This line contains NO parabens, artificial fragrances or dyes, phthalates, SLS, sulfates phenoxyethanol or formaldehyde releaser preservatives (e.g. quaternium, hydantoin), or any other carcinogenic chemicals.
Shop: Green Beaver Gluten Free products can be purchased online from GreenBeaver.com and are available at health stores across Canada (prices range from 5.99 - 9.99 CAD).
The Giveaway: Green Beaver is generously giving one of my readers a gift pack including their entire Gluten Free Line (a $46 value).
To Enter: Please visit Green Beaver and have a look at all of their wonderful natural products. Then comment below with an item that you would like to try. (This first entry is mandatory and must be done before additional entries)
The opinions expressed in the above review are my honest experiences, and thoughts. I did not receive any money for writing this review.
Why Gluten Free? In recent years their has been an increased awareness of Celiac Disease and gluten intolerance. In fact it is estimated that 1 in 133 Canadians is affected by celiac disease ( an auto-immune disorder characterized by intolerance to gluten proteins found in grains including wheat). Gluten is often found in personal care products, which can cause problems when accidentally ingested (even in minute amounts). Some people with Celiac Disease also suffer from skin irritations when gluten is applied topically. Green Beaver's Gluten Free line is a great choice for anyone who avoids gluten; it works great and contains only pure and natural ingredients.
I was sent Green Beaver's Gluten Free Body Wash for review and have been really happy with it. This 100% natural wash works great in place of soap to gently and effectively clean you from head to toe. Besides being gluten free, this wash is also organic, biodegradable, vegan, and not tested on animals. It has a great citrus lavender scent that smells wonderful and is refreshing too. I also love how it cleans while moisturising and does not dry out my skin like many soaps. Even though I am not gluten intolerant, this is a great natural body wash that I will definitely be using for sometime.
Like all Green Beaver Products their new Gluten Free line is free from of all of the toxic ingredients so often found in personal care products. This line contains NO parabens, artificial fragrances or dyes, phthalates, SLS, sulfates phenoxyethanol or formaldehyde releaser preservatives (e.g. quaternium, hydantoin), or any other carcinogenic chemicals.
Shop: Green Beaver Gluten Free products can be purchased online from GreenBeaver.com and are available at health stores across Canada (prices range from 5.99 - 9.99 CAD).
The Giveaway: Green Beaver is generously giving one of my readers a gift pack including their entire Gluten Free Line (a $46 value).
To Enter: Please visit Green Beaver and have a look at all of their wonderful natural products. Then comment below with an item that you would like to try. (This first entry is mandatory and must be done before additional entries)
Additional Entries:
~Follow my blog (two entries, leave two comments)
~Follow Green Beaver on Twitter and comment
~Follow my blog (two entries, leave two comments)
~Follow Green Beaver on Twitter and comment
~Follow me on twitter tweet " Win Gluten Free products from Green Beaver http://bit.ly/edcvYQ @mamareviews @thegreenbeaver #giveaway #win #celiac" (daily tweet) leave a link
~Like Green Beaver on facebook and comment
~Like Natural Mama Reviews on facebook and comment
~Subscribe to my blog on left and comment
~Subscribe to Green Beaver's Newsletter and comment
~Grab my blog button on the left and comment
~Blog about this giveaway and comment with a link
~Enter another giveaway on my Blog and comment
This Giveaway ends March, 6th at 9pm. Winner will be chosen using Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to my e-mail before a new name is drawn. One entry (plus mentioned additional entries) per household. This Giveaway is open to Canadian Residents only.
~Like Green Beaver on facebook and comment
~Like Natural Mama Reviews on facebook and comment
~Subscribe to my blog on left and comment
~Subscribe to Green Beaver's Newsletter and comment
~Grab my blog button on the left and comment
~Blog about this giveaway and comment with a link
~Enter another giveaway on my Blog and comment
This Giveaway ends March, 6th at 9pm. Winner will be chosen using Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to my e-mail before a new name is drawn. One entry (plus mentioned additional entries) per household. This Giveaway is open to Canadian Residents only.
The opinions expressed in the above review are my honest experiences, and thoughts. I did not receive any money for writing this review.
A Free Family Valentines
I've always thought of Valentines Day as a day for couples, to be celebrated with Sweethearts. But something changed in me this year- some kind of switch went on and I realized its really a day to celebrate LOVE. Although I know it can be very commercialized (big business selling candy and made in China junk etc) it is also a wonderful opportunity to remember the people we truly love.
So this year, I have been celebrating in simple ways. Showing my girls that they are loved and special...best of all I didn't spend a cent!
First I made a LOVE banner to hang in our home and make it look festive. I just cut hearts out of a re-usable bag, cut simple letters out of felt and glued them on and sewed the hearts on some old ribbon I had lying around. I also made all three girls Valentine pillows (re-purposed from a velvet skirt that I never wore). Then last night I made some cheese biscuits for their lunches today- heart shaped and pink of course.
So far its been the best valentines ever! I was so happy seeing my girls completely filled with joy and feeling loved this morning. It reminded me that its the little things that build family traditions and great memories...and a silly holiday like valentines day is a perfect excuse.
PS. My husband and I are also celebrating tonight with a special date-night out.
So this year, I have been celebrating in simple ways. Showing my girls that they are loved and special...best of all I didn't spend a cent!
First I made a LOVE banner to hang in our home and make it look festive. I just cut hearts out of a re-usable bag, cut simple letters out of felt and glued them on and sewed the hearts on some old ribbon I had lying around. I also made all three girls Valentine pillows (re-purposed from a velvet skirt that I never wore). Then last night I made some cheese biscuits for their lunches today- heart shaped and pink of course.
So far its been the best valentines ever! I was so happy seeing my girls completely filled with joy and feeling loved this morning. It reminded me that its the little things that build family traditions and great memories...and a silly holiday like valentines day is a perfect excuse.
PS. My husband and I are also celebrating tonight with a special date-night out.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Brooks Glycerin 8 {Eco-Friendly Running Shoes} Review
I'm trying to get back into running and have been doing a lot of research into eco-friendly running shoes. A name that keeps coming up again and again is Brooks. This amazing company has become a leader in eco-friendly footwear- using the latest technology to design shoes that truly reduce our footprint. Their eco running and athletic shoes are also well loved in the running community for quality and performance, so I knew Brooks was a name I could trust to go green without sacrificing the run.
Brooks has been working hard to create a green and ethical company. In efforts to create an eco-friendly running shoe, Brooks has designed the very first biodegradable mid-sole. By adding a natural additive to the sole Brooks shoes biodegrade within 20 years (vs 1000 years that it takes a traditional running shoe sole). This small and innovative change allows Brooks to save 29.9 million pounds of landfill waste over 20 years- wow! Brooks is planet friendly in many other ways too, including; designing eco-friendly natural out-soles, practicing green manufacturing processes, using boxes made from 100% recycled materials, and having all around green business practices. For more information about ways in which Brooks is going green check out their super informative Green Room.
I was sent a pair of lovely Glycerin 8 running shoes, and they are fabulous. These neutral running shoes are lightweight, breathable, and are supportive yet flexible. Comfort is number one with me, so I am also impressed with how cushy and comfy the Glycerin 8 feel. They are multi-functional too, and I have found they work great for trail running, jogging, going to the gym, or power walks with my dog. Best of all, the Brooks Glycerin are earth friendly and contain the above-mentioned BioMoGo biodegradable sole and laces made from 100% recycled materials. Did I also mention these shoes are really pretty. The Glycerin 8's I tried are a nice shade of lavender and silver and feature Maori tribal design accents that I love.
My new Brooks Glycerin 8 shoes have definitely been helping me to get moving and reach my fitness goals. They are much lighter and have more bounce than my old runners, which really helps with my motivation. The Brooks Glycerin 8 also contain Brooks DNA - which is a custom cushioning system that allows the soles to adapt to your unique needs as a runner. I have found the DNA really gives them a lot of cushioning, which is great for someone like me who suffers knee pain while running. Right from the start my Glycerin 8's have felt great and so far I have been free from any knee or joint pain. I completely recommend the Brooks Glycerin 8 Shoes for anyone searching for an earth friendly shoe that also performs wonderfully.
Brooks Glycerin 8 at a glance:
-Neutral Shoe
- Brooks DNA customized cushioning
- BioMoGo biodegradable mid-sole
- Runner's World "Editor's Choice"
- Men's and Women's
- Weight: 10.3 oz.
- Moisture-managing Element Linings/Mesh
Shop: Brooks Glycerin 8 are available across the globe anywhere quality athletic shoes are sold. In Canada they can be found at these retailers. The Brooks Glycerin 8 retails for approx $130.
Connect with Brooks: To learn more about their great eco-friendly athlectic shoes "like" Brooks Sports on facebook and follow them on twitter.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Maman Bidule Jacket Winner
Congratulations Annie 1 (comment 129) you have won a lovely hand-made jacket from Maman Bidule. Her clothing is so beautiful and unique - you will love it! I will e-mail you soon.
Thanks to everyone who entered and to Maman Bidule for sponsoring this giveaway.
Thanks to everyone who entered and to Maman Bidule for sponsoring this giveaway.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Kristin Noel Jewelry Winner
Congratulations Lisa (comment 368) you have won a lovely pair of handmade pearl earrings from Kristin Noel Designs. I will be in touch soon.
Thanks to everyone who entered and to Kristin Noel Designs for sponsoring this giveaway.
Thanks to everyone who entered and to Kristin Noel Designs for sponsoring this giveaway.
Green Valentine - All About Feet by Upper Canada Soap {Review and Giveaway}
If you are looking for a fabulously pampering Valentines gift, that is good for you and the planet- look no further. Upper Canada Soap offers an extensive line of skincare and beauty products, completely crush worthy. I especially love their All About Feet natural treats for your feet. This ultra pampering line of foot-care products uses the power of peppermint oil and moisturizing natural butters, to sooth and nurture overworked feet.
All About Feet products are made in Canada and are designed to pamper tired over-worked feet. We spend most of the day on our feet, but somehow our tootsies seem to be our most ignored body part. So ignore no more, and check out All About Feet from Upper Canada Soap. They have developed an extensive line of foot care products including massage butters and bars, foot soaks, foot sprays, and foot scrubs just to name a few. I think the Foot Massage Butter would make an especially wonderful gift for any man or women on your list this Valentines Day- nothing says love like a good foot rub. I also love that All About Feet products are safe and don't contain any harsh chemicals, parabens, synthetic dyes, mineral oils, SLS and Phthalates.
I tried the Peppermint Massaging Foot Butter- and oh my goodness it is wonderful. It is so rich and thick: like minty whipped butter. It contains natural Mango, Cocoa and Shea Butters, blended into a creamy moisturizing butter that is perfect for soothing and nourishing dry feet. The Massaging Foot Butter works wonderfully as a daily moisturizing lotion or for massages- either way it will make your feet feel soft, smooth, and loved. I am also crazy about the peppermint scent, which is simultaneously soothing and invigorating, like a cup of mint tea for tired and sore feet.
Shop: Upper Canada Products can be found in stores across Canada or purchased online here. The Fabulous Peppermint Massaging Foot Butter retails for $13.99 CAD.
The Giveaway: Upper Canada Soap has generously offered to give one of my readers their Hands & Feet Sampler Set ( pictured above- containing luxurious lotion for your hands and feet).
To Enter: Please visit Upper Canada Soap and comment below telling me which one of their amazing products you would like to give or receive this Valentines Day. (this first entry is mandatory and must be completed before addition entries will count)
~Grab my blog button on the left and comment
~Blog about this giveaway and comment with a link
~Enter another giveaway on my Blog and comment
This Giveaway ends on February 28th at 9pm. Winner will be chosen using Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to my e-mail before a new name is drawn. One entry (plus mentioned additional entries) per household. US and Canadian residents only.
The opinions expressed in the above review are my honest experiences, and thoughts. I did not receive any money for writing this review.
All About Feet products are made in Canada and are designed to pamper tired over-worked feet. We spend most of the day on our feet, but somehow our tootsies seem to be our most ignored body part. So ignore no more, and check out All About Feet from Upper Canada Soap. They have developed an extensive line of foot care products including massage butters and bars, foot soaks, foot sprays, and foot scrubs just to name a few. I think the Foot Massage Butter would make an especially wonderful gift for any man or women on your list this Valentines Day- nothing says love like a good foot rub. I also love that All About Feet products are safe and don't contain any harsh chemicals, parabens, synthetic dyes, mineral oils, SLS and Phthalates.
I tried the Peppermint Massaging Foot Butter- and oh my goodness it is wonderful. It is so rich and thick: like minty whipped butter. It contains natural Mango, Cocoa and Shea Butters, blended into a creamy moisturizing butter that is perfect for soothing and nourishing dry feet. The Massaging Foot Butter works wonderfully as a daily moisturizing lotion or for massages- either way it will make your feet feel soft, smooth, and loved. I am also crazy about the peppermint scent, which is simultaneously soothing and invigorating, like a cup of mint tea for tired and sore feet.
Shop: Upper Canada Products can be found in stores across Canada or purchased online here. The Fabulous Peppermint Massaging Foot Butter retails for $13.99 CAD.
The Giveaway: Upper Canada Soap has generously offered to give one of my readers their Hands & Feet Sampler Set ( pictured above- containing luxurious lotion for your hands and feet).
To Enter: Please visit Upper Canada Soap and comment below telling me which one of their amazing products you would like to give or receive this Valentines Day. (this first entry is mandatory and must be completed before addition entries will count)
Additional Entries:
~Follow my blog (two entries, leave two comments)
~Like Upper Canada Soap on facebook and comment
~Like Natural Mama Reviews on facebook and comment
~Follow Upper Canada Soap on twitter and comment
~Follow me on Twitter and tweet " Win a Hands and Feet Gift Set from Upper Canada Soap http://bit.ly/enN33E @mamareviews @uppercanadasoap #giveaway " (daily tweet) leave a link
~Subscribe to my blog on left and comment~Grab my blog button on the left and comment
~Blog about this giveaway and comment with a link
~Enter another giveaway on my Blog and comment
This Giveaway ends on February 28th at 9pm. Winner will be chosen using Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to my e-mail before a new name is drawn. One entry (plus mentioned additional entries) per household. US and Canadian residents only.
The opinions expressed in the above review are my honest experiences, and thoughts. I did not receive any money for writing this review.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Soopsori Wooden Toys Review
I love natural wooden toys, and Soopsori toys are some of the most beautiful wooden toys I have seen. Soopsori has created a fun and imaginative line of eco-friendly wooden toys that capture the natural beauty of wood. They use 20 different varieties of wood to create wooden toys that are truly pieces of art. Soopsori toys are also designed with fun and imaginative play in mind; they offer a wide variety of wooden treasures including animal playgrounds, cooking sets, blocks, and musical instruments just to name a few.
Soopsori is a Korean word meaning 'Sounds of the Forest', which reflects the companies dedication to creating eco-friendly toys that celebrate nature. Their toys are made of natural wood (you wont find wood glued with paper or plastic like many "wooden" sets on the market). Each toy is thoughtfully designed with perfectly shaped and sanded wood, artfully inlaid to create a truly wooden toy. They are then finished with natural linseed oil, no plants or dyes. Soopsori believes that the natural grain of the wood is beautiful and I cant agree more. I also love how safe they are; completely non-toxic and free of sharp edges or metal bits.
We were sent a lovely Soopsori Birthday Cake Set for Review and both my girls and myself completely love it. I was immediately impressed with the beautiful craftsmanship, high quality and attention to detail of the Soopsori Birthday set. It features inlaid internal magnets (under the wood) that keep the pieces of cake together and the candles upright. Its made from a variety of different types of naturally beautiful wood that are pressed together to form smooth pieces. It would make the perfect addition to any Waldorf inspired kitchen, and is also so much fun on its own.
Learn More/ Connect: To learn more about Soopsori or to be the first to hear about new promotions and sales, like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.
The opinions expressed in the above review are my honest experiences, and thoughts. I did not receive any money for writing this review.
Soopsori is a Korean word meaning 'Sounds of the Forest', which reflects the companies dedication to creating eco-friendly toys that celebrate nature. Their toys are made of natural wood (you wont find wood glued with paper or plastic like many "wooden" sets on the market). Each toy is thoughtfully designed with perfectly shaped and sanded wood, artfully inlaid to create a truly wooden toy. They are then finished with natural linseed oil, no plants or dyes. Soopsori believes that the natural grain of the wood is beautiful and I cant agree more. I also love how safe they are; completely non-toxic and free of sharp edges or metal bits.
We were sent a lovely Soopsori Birthday Cake Set for Review and both my girls and myself completely love it. I was immediately impressed with the beautiful craftsmanship, high quality and attention to detail of the Soopsori Birthday set. It features inlaid internal magnets (under the wood) that keep the pieces of cake together and the candles upright. Its made from a variety of different types of naturally beautiful wood that are pressed together to form smooth pieces. It would make the perfect addition to any Waldorf inspired kitchen, and is also so much fun on its own.
Most importantly, my kids are crazy about Soopsori Toys too. My youngest daughter, who loves food play, is especially taken with the wooden Birthday Cake Set. From the moment it arrived she has spent hours having fun imaginative play- giving birthday parties to everyone in the family and all of her dolls and softies. I love that she is learning about the joy of celebrations and nurturing others through her pretend play birthday parties- they are so sweet.
Shop: Soopsori has a wonderful selection of natural wooden toys which can be purchased here from Soopsori.com. The Birthday Cake Set reviewed above comes with 6 pieces of cake, 6 candles, 3 plates, 2 forks and a knife, and a wooden storage box. The set retails for $88.
Learn More/ Connect: To learn more about Soopsori or to be the first to hear about new promotions and sales, like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.
The opinions expressed in the above review are my honest experiences, and thoughts. I did not receive any money for writing this review.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Green Works Winner!
Congratulations to the winner of the Green Works Giveaway - 3 Lilacs (comment #55). You will love these natural cleaners. I will e-mail you soon.
Thanks to everyone who entered this giveaway and to Green Works for the review and giveaway opportunity.
Thanks to everyone who entered this giveaway and to Green Works for the review and giveaway opportunity.
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