#NBFluffNStuff newborn blog hop giveaway event.... Are you ready???

Just wanted to take a moment and say welcome to my new readers... and say hello to those of you that have been sticking around!


I'm gearing up for the biggest giveaway event that I've ever held here on my blog!
As many of you know, I've just had baby #3 (just over a week ago)! She was born at home in the water #waterbirth and weighed 6.8 lbs!
Her name is Allison!
To celebrate her joining our family and to celebrate our first home birth... I've been working relentlessly on this virtual baby shower/baby blessing event!

This event will start 15 May and will run until I run out of items to review! There are over 40 review (and giveaway) items in addition to 8 grand prizes to be won!
The grand prizes are as follows:

1. JJ Cole diaper bag Norah print
2. Ergo bundle of joy (carrier with infant insert)
3. Naturepedic organic changing pad
4. $75 GC to Snuggy Baby
5. Boba carrier
6. Britax B-Safe car seat
7. Onya Baby carrier
8. Boba soft structured carrier

This giveaway will be a blog hop event. So that means there will be a linky with other participating blogs that are offering giveaways on their blogs as well! Each blogger is going to be offering a prize that retails for at least $20!

If you are a blogger and are interested in participating in this event, please e-mail me angela_heffner at yahoo dot com for more information!

I can't wait! If you have not already, please go here and read my guidelines as to how my giveaways are run!

I'm so excited to be able to bring you all these reviews and giveaways!! I know you are excited too and you are not going to want to miss out. To ensure that you don't, feel free to sign up to receive my most current blog posts via e-mail (right side bar under 'follow by e-mail')!

~Mama of the Littles~

Diono Radian RXT winner, review and Military Appreciation Month discount/sale codes!!!

The moment you've all been waiting for! The winner of the Diono Radian RXT car seat is Anastasia B. Congratulations!
You have 48 hours to respond to the winning e-mail to claim your prize!!
A HUGE thank you to Just Kids Store for partially sponsoring this giveaway and a HUGE thank you to the amazing group of bloggers/business owners for sponsoring the event as well!

Diono Radian RXT Review

 



When we found out we were expecting baby #3, the first thing my husband said was 'we are going to need a new car.' We were driving a VW Jetta and there was just no way that a family of 5 could comfortably fit in it!
I knew too that we were going to need a new car seat as well. I put a lot of effort into researching the safest, most affordable car seat on the market and my search lead me to the Diono Radian RXT!


Here is some more information on thjis car seat taken from Diono's website
Description:
The RadianRXT is a highly versatile car seat that could be the only seat you’ll ever need. It comfortably seats rear-facing children from 5-45 lbs, forward-facing children from 20-80 lbs in 5-point harness, then converts to a booster for children up to 120 lbs. It’s built for strength and safety with a steel alloy frame, reinforced sidewalls, adjustable head support and our patented SafeStop® energy absorbing harness. EPS foam surrounds the child's head and body to provide complete side impact protection. Our unique SuperLATCH system makes installation easy. The RadianRXT is NCAP crash tested, the industry benchmark for verifying child seat performance in severe accident conditions, and the only car seat rated for LATCH use with a child up to 80 lbs. The RadianRXT sits low on a vehicle seat for easy child boarding, features memory foam padding and infant support pillows. Expandable sides and a longer seat bottom provide extra room and comfort for your growing child. One cup holder is included, with the option to add up to 4 cup holders. In addition to all this versatility, it folds flat for travel and storage, has a 10 year life and offers amazing safety, comfort and convenience your child won’t outgrow.

Features:

Rear-facing: 5 - 45 lbs

Forward-facing: 20 - 80 lbs (and up to 57") in a 5-point harness

Booster to 120 lbs

Steel alloy frame and aluminum reinforced sides

Safestop® energy-absorbing harness system

Adjustable head support, reinforced for complete side impact safety

Energy-absorbing EPS foam panels on all sides

Rear-facing tether capability

LATCH installation up to 80 lb child

Infant body support cushions

Memory foam padding for superior comfort

5 shoulder and 3 buckle positions for custom fit

Expandable sides and longer seat bottom for leg support and comfort

12 height positions for adjustable head support

2 recline positions in forward-facing mode

Sits low on vehicle seat for easy child boarding

Fits 3 across in a mid-size vehicle and offers more shoulder space

Add up to 4 cup holders (1 included)

Folds flat for travel and storage

Rubber bottom grips for no-slip installation

10 year life

I was beyond thrilled when Just Kids Store agreed to send me a Diono Radian RXT in Storm for my review. This is what I received:

 

The Diono Radian RXT is the only car seat you will ever need. It is made for a baby from 5 lbs to 45 lbs (rear facing); 20-80 lbs forward facing in a 5-point harness; and up to 120 lbs forward facing in a booster seat!

I currently am using the Diono Radian RXT for my 5 yo  who weighs approximately 45 lbs. He used to be in a Graco booster seat with a back, and using the lap belt only, but after only a day in that seat I realized just how unsafe it was compared to him being in a 5 point harness. He could literally reach almost all the way across the back seat and touch his brother. That made me uncomfortable (to say the least)! With the Diono, he is buckled in a 5-point harness and I know he is secure!

Might I also add that he LOVES his seat!!

In honor of May being Military Appreciation month, Just Kids Store is having a sale!
Let me tell you that I searched high and low to find the best price on a Diono before I came across Just Kids Store. I checked Amazon, the local retailer here in town, and a few other on-line places and then I found Just Kids Store. The prices on their Diono's changed with the different sales and promotions, but I found that they always had the cheapest price! They also offer free shipping on their Dionos!


If you are a military wife, soldier or veteran, you can take advantage of these special discounts. For the month of May, the Diono Radian RXT (in Trekk print) will be an additional $30 off!!

Summer Infant Baby Touch Monitors will be an additional $20 off!
To find instructions on how to place your order, be sure to check out Just Kids Store's Facebook page!
For those of you that are non-military, there are a few sale codes for you to enjoy as well!
"Save20" = 20% OFF msrp (certain brands excluded)
"Stride25" = 25% OFF msrp – all shoes
"Britax25" = 25% OFF msrp on all Britax Gear



~Mama of the Littles~

Happy Birthday to my baby GIRL!!!!

I've got some exciting news!
Our baby girl was born this last Sunday at 3:29 am after only 3 hours of labor. She was born here at home, in the water! It was an awesome experience.
She was a surprise gender birth (as you can tell from the picture, this is when we found out she was a girl)! I am on my 'baby moon' and am very carefully trying out a bunch of newborn cloth diapers and other items (used a Mei Tai today (sent to me from Snuggy Baby) for the first time and I LOVE it), better yet, so does my little girl. She was the smallest of all my babies weighing in at only 6 lbs 8 oz!
She is nursing like a champ and I am enjoying every single minute of it!

I've still not decided on a date to start the newborn event, as I need a good ample amount of time to try out all these awesome products!
Keep an eye on my FB page for the official announcement!

There are a lot of prizes to be won, and you are not going to want to miss this!!

For the Diono Radian RXT giveaway that just ended, we are still working on verifying the winner. The first winner picked did not complete the winning entry and so we are going to have to draw another! Your patience is appreciated!

~Mama of the Littles~

#NBFluffNStuff AMP Duo size small #CLOTHDIAPERS Review and #GIVEAWAY {US/Canada}

I LOVE AMP diapers! Not only are they one of the highest quality diapers on the market, but they are affordable, easy to use, work awesome and sooooooo cute!

 

I was thrilled when I found out I was expecting again and would be able to try out all kinds of fluffy goodness on my newborn baby (something I never had the chance to do with either of my boys)!

When Annie offered to send me an AMP Duo diaper for my review, I jumped at the opportunity!
I was sent a size small AMP Duo diaper in purple with AMP's bamboo insert! This diaper is so cute on my baby GIRL!!!

This is what I received:

This diaper came with a bamboo insert (which measures approximately 15"x15" or 12"x14" after washing)! Here is some more information about the AMP bamboo insert (taken from the AMP website):
"AMP Bamboo inserts* are so trim and yet so very absorbent!
Fold them once for four layers in a size large AI2, Duo or original pocket diaper or fold in three in the size smalls.
These are so trim you can easily double them up for a heavy wetting baby all night solution.
Made of 70% Rayon derived from Bamboo, 30% Cotton blend.
Why are these inserts so great?
– Super soft and silky
– Very breathable
– Anti-bacterial
– Absorbs 3 to 4 times more than cotton
– Doesn’t feel sticky or uncomfortable when wet
*AMP Bamboo inserts are made of 70% Rayon derived from bamboo, 30% Cotton."

This diaper is really versatile. It can be used as a pocket diaper or as an All in 2 (AI2)! AMP has a great video on YouTube which demonstrates the different ways to use this fabulous diaper!

If you are using this diaper as a pocket, you will find a very nice sized opening in which to stuff the insert:

It is also very convenient to be used as an AI2!

Here is some more information on the AMP AI2 diapering system (taken from the AMP website):

"What’s an AMP Duo diaper? It’s a diaper with a double duty.The most versatile cloth diaper available today. Use it as an AI2 (All in two) diaper during the day and just change the absorbing insert when wet or stuff it and use it as a pocket diaper to keep baby dry at night… or use it as a pocket diaper all the time…. These diapers have same amazing fit as the Original AMP AI2′s but have the added versatility of a pocket opening for stuffing.

• The soft elastic gathers are incredible at containing leaks while being oh so gentle on babies tender skin
• Four rows of snaps on each side allow separate tummy and thigh adjustments, this means you get a custom fit on any baby.
• The super soft fleece keeps the absorbent insert where it belongs so there’s no bunching, it also keeps baby dry if used as a pocket diaper.
• The durable waterproof breathable fabric is soft stretchy these diapers can be washed and dried over and over and still look and work like new.
• Since they are a two part system washing and drying is quick and easy.
• Choose your favorite absorbent inserts from cotton, AMP hemp inserts or AMP bamboo inserts*.

Available in two sizes that fit from birth to potty learning.

• Small 6-18lbs
• Large 15-35lbs"

This is a picture of the diaper on it's smallest setting:

Medium setting:

Largest setting:

 

The AMP Sized Duo diapers come in a variety of beautiful colors to choose from!

I really love this diaper. It fits my little girl perfectly! I have used it for overnight and during the day and have not experienced any leaks! My favorite way to use this diaper is as a pocket diaper!

This is quickly becoming one of my favorite diapers in my newborn stash! I do have to say that this diaper is a bit bulky on my tiny little 6.8 pounder with the bamboo insert, but the fit is great.. even on long and lean babies <3

 

 

You can purchase and AMP Duo Diaper directly from AMP's online store for $18.00. You can also purchase the bamboo insert there as well for $8.00!

 

 

As a sponsor for this event, AMP has generously offered one of you the chance to win an AMP Duo diaper in winner's choice of size and color!!  Winner will also receive a bamboo insert with their diaper as well!

This giveaway is open to US and Canadian residents!! To enter, simply fill out the Rafflecopter form below! You may have to click "read more" in order for the whole Rafflecopter form to load!

Good luck and Have fun!

~Mama of the Littles~

Disclosure: I received the product(s) mentioned above in exchange for my review. This review is my honest opinion based on my own personal experience, and may differ from yours. I did not receive any monetary compensation in exchange for this review!

A couple of winners!! {Stonz and Mombecks}

What a whirlwind I've been in!
With hubby coming home from deployment, preparing for the birth of our 3rd baby (which has not happened yet)... I've neglected the blog! Sorry about that!

I have a few winners to announce!
The winner for the $25 GC to Stonz is Stacy! Congrats!
The winner for the $25 GC to MomBecks is Alexis! Congrats!
*please be sure to check your 'spam/junk' folders!!

Don't forget to enter my other current giveaways!
Diono Radian RXT {US only}
$50 GC to Moon over Maize (beautiful birth inspired hand made jewelry) {world-wide}

I'm gearing up for this baby's birth and also for the newborn event!
There are so many prizes up for grabs!
Over 40 sponsors and 7 grand prizes to include:
1. JJ Cole diaper bag Norah print
2. Ergo bundle of joy (carrier with infant insert)
3. Naturepedic organic changing pad
4. $75 GC to Snuggy Baby (review a Mei Tai)
5. Boba carrier
6. Britax B-Safe car seat
7. Onya Baby carrier

I'm excited! Many of you are going to win some really awesome prizes!! This event will start shortly after this baby is born and I'm not too sleep deprived :)

Thanks for being a reader of my blog!
~Mama of the Littles~

Preparing for birth "Moon over Maize" $50 GC review and #GIVEAWAY {World-Wide}

While getting ready for my home birth, I've got most things here in order. The birthing pool is partially inflated and just hanging out in my hall closet. All the tools to inflate the birthing pool are located right next to it.
I have my essential DoTerra oils ready to be used (I've decided on using elevation to be diffused while in labor)! LOVE the smell!
I've got my chapstick, towels, camera batteries charged and also have a few snacks set aside! Of course the most important thing about having a home birth (or any birth) is being ready in your state of mind! Many people are afraid of labor and would not ever consider birthing at home.
It is my personal belief that my body was created by God Himself for the purpose (one of many) to birth babies! I know that my body knows what to do and will do what it was created to do when the time comes. I'm confident. Will it hurt, um yes, but knowing that the pain is temporary and is for a purpose, it is quite a different mind set when it comes to the pain as compared to having a broken wrist or feeling sick!

I am a reader and facebook fan of a blog called "Birth Without Fear." It was while I was looking over that site and reading the incredible, empowering birth stores from VBAC's to C-sections, to unassisted home births that I came across Moon Over Maize!
Monica is the Etsy Artist behind Moon Over Maize and she creates the most beautiful jewelry I've seen in quite awhile!
When I saw her "Birth With Faith" necklace I knew I had to have one.
What a better reminder for me than this necklace to keep in mind that my body was created to do just what God made it to do!

I contacted Monica and she sent me this beautiful necklace for review.

 The necklace came on a sterling silver chain.

Monica also added three beads to the center of my necklace to coordinate with my 3 kid's birth dates!   

As I wear this necklace and prepare to welcome my third child into our family, I am reminded constantly that my faith in Christ is what sustains me! He has given me a life I do not deserve and I am so thankful for my boys and my husband.
I think of those that I know that are struggling with infertility or are in an abusive relationship and I am so thankful that God has saved me from all of that. I was wild and crazy in my younger years and I have experienced loss and pain, but I keep moving forward, keep pressing on towards the goal that He has called me to!

Monica has graciously offered one LWML reader a $50 GC towards the purchase of anything in her Etsy shop. Check out some of her other beautiful items she has to offer:

I can't tell you how amazingly talented Monica is! These pictures do not do her pieces justice! There are a few things I've been contemplating buying. I'd love to buy my midwife a little key chain or necklace!

I could spend a lot of money at Moon Over Maize!! That's for sure!

If you are new to my giveaways, please be sure to go here and read the rules on how to enter! I'd hate for you to do all the work to enter the giveaway and then not be eligible to win!

Don't forget about the Diono Radian RXT car seat giveaway that is also going on. One US resident will win their very own Diono Radian RXT in their choice of color/print!! {ends 16 April}

Enter to win a $50 GC to Moon Over Maize's Etsy shop!

This giveaway is open world-wide!

Disclosure: I received the product(s) mentioned above in exchange for my review. This review is my honest opinion based on my own personal experience, and may differ from yours. I did not receive any monetary compensation in exchange for this review!

Good luck and have fun!!

~Mama of the Littles~

Safe and Sound: A Diono Radian RXT Giveaway Event

Disclaimer: This giveaway is in no way sponsored by Diono®. Winner is responsible for reading and understanding the child restraint manual, and properly installing and using the child restraint; should winner require assistance with the child restraint, winner should contact the manufacturer for assistance as soon as possible. Sponsors and bloggers hold no liability for adverse outcomes related to the use of this child restraint. My opinions are my own and Life With My Littles was not compensated for this posting. Life With My Littles is responsible for prize fulfillment.

We are pleased to bring you Safe and Sound: A Diono® Radian RXT Giveaway Event hosted by Life With My Littles, and Water Rolls Uphill.

This giveaway is sponsored in part by Just Kids Store and every blogger found in the Rafflcopter widget.

One lucky winner will receive a Diono® RadianRXT child restraint, approximate retail value $269.99.

This giveaway runs from April 2, 2013 at 12:00 AM to April 16, 2013, at 12:00 AM, and is open to US residents ages 18 and over.

The Diono® RadianRXT features include:

• Accommodation of a wide weight range of children from 5 pounds to 80 pounds in a five point harness;
• An infant insert for superior fit and comfort;
• Head wings, steel alloy frame, reinforced sidewalls, and adjustable head support;
• Extended rear facing to 45 pounds;
• Forward facing from 20 to 80 pounds (and up to 57");
• Allowing for use as a high weight harnessing booster up to 120 pounds;
• SuperLATCH and being rated for LATCH to 80 pounds;
• Sits low in vehicle for easy boarding and exiting of the seat;
• Narrow seat width to allow for a three across child restraint configuration, in many vehicles;
• Extensive safety testing and NCAP crash tested;
• A ten year seat life.

Just Kids Store sells Diono® child restraints and many other wonderful necessities for your children. Please visit their website to see their full line of products and save even more by using one of the coupon codes below.

• "Save20” to save 20% sitewide (some restrictions apply, see website for full details)
• “Shoes25” to save 25% off all shoes
• “Zoob25” to save 25% off all Zoobies plush toys
• "BOB25” to save 25% off of any BOB or Britax product

Please enter using the Rafflecopter form: a Rafflecopter giveaway