Although I'm a stay-at-home-mom and home much of the time, I still like to do my hair and put on a little makeup. I'm finding with each year that passes, wrinkles are starting to appear and my eyes are looking more tired. I feel much better with a touch of make up to start off my day. Having the right tools that are easy to use to do this is a must! That's why I was very excited when introduced to EcoTOOLS and their new cosmetic brushes.

EcoTOOLS offers a huge selection of beauty and bath & body supplies/tools. They are a brand that not only makes it easy to achieve the look you are going for, but also concentrate on going green and making sure their products are eco-friendly as well. Their cosmetic brushes feature cruelty-free taklon bristles, recycled aluminum ferrules and bamboo handles. EcoTOOLS is truly passionate about beautifying the earth and its customers with the products they offer.

EcoTOOLS has teamed up with celebrity makeup artist Meredith Baraf to bring the products and pointers women may need to create that perfect look they've been trying to achieve for so long. On February 1, EcoTOOLS officially launched four instructional videos on www.eco-tools.com so women everywhere can redefine and re-tool to become a total beauty know-it-all. I especially liked the video for the 'sultry smoky eye'...

...but also found the other tutorials to be great as well. They included instructions for the following looks:

• A cunning cat-eye
• A flawless face
  
• A touched-up face for day to night
  

In watching these videos I was inspired and couldn't wait to try out the new cosmetic brushes for myself! EcoTOOLS was kind enough to send me their 6 piece Bamboo Eye Bbrush Set and their Bamboo Bronzer Brush.

My first impression of the brushes was how incredibly soft they were. I read that they were soft, but had no idea they were this soft! The EcoTOOLS new Bronzer Brush is very full and brushes across my skin so nicely. The bamboo handle is a great size and shape which allows for me to apply my makeup in the proper way. The bronzer brush I used before being introduced to EcoTOOLS had stiff bristles that didn't give a lot. I found the exact opposite to be true of this one and couldn't be happier!

I was also very pleased with the 6 piece Eye Brush Set. This set truly has everything a girl needs in my opinion. It features:

• Large eye shadow brush
• Angled crease brush
• Petite eye shading brush
• Domed highlighting brush
• Smudge Brush
• Compact Travel Cosmetic Case with Mirror

Not only did I love the soft bristles and quality of each brush, but also the fact that they were printed with their name to ensure they were used properly. I know which brush to use for the crease, which to use to shade, etc.

The natural hemp and cotton case is great as well. It's the perfect size to keep right in my makeup bag and allows for my brushes to stay safe while keeping my bag clean! It also has a mirror which I've used several times already.

Overall, I'm very pleased with the cosmetic brushes I received from EcoTOOLS! They make applying my makeup easy and best of all, they are great quality and eco-friendly! I would highly recommend these products to every woman I know, and can't wait to try out some of the other beauty tools EcoTOOLS offers.

Buy It: You can purchase the 6 Piece Eye Brush Set for $7.99 and the Bamboo Bronzer Brush for $9.99.

**The products reviewed were provided at no cost by EcoTOOLS. This was not a paid post and my honest opinions were given.**

I've often said that once I entered motherhood, it became even more important to me to make sure I was using the safest products available. I want to give my children the very best start in life...and that means choosing the very best products for them and our family! That's why I was thrilled to have the opportunity to review some of the baby care products from Weleda.

Weleda is a company offering a variety of products using natural ingredients that can holistically work with and support our own body’s healing tendencies. They use ingredients that agree with your baby's delicate skin by providing products that are free of synthetic fragrances, preservatives, etc. Whether it's skin care for adults or for babies...Weleda has it!

We were sent the Weleda Calendula Baby Starter Kit.
I was really excited to try these products, as our 2 month old's skin in particular is quite sensitive. The Baby Starter Kit had everything we needed to keep his skin clean, protected and soft. The Calendula products are perfect for his delicate skin...and I know would be great for our 2 year old and even ourselves as well.

Included in the kit were the following products:

• Calendula Baby Cream - 0.34 oz. (10 g)
• Calendula Lotion - 0.34 oz. (10 g)
• Calendula Shampoo and Body Wash - 0.72 oz. (20.4 g)
• Calendula Oil - 0.34 oz. (10 g)
• Calendula Diaper Care (for diaper rash) - 0.4 oz. (10.8 g)

As we began to use these products with Kaden, I was comforted to know that we were using the very best for his sensitive skin. They smell great and take care of all his skin care needs...everything from diapering to bathing! I especially liked the baby cream. Kaden had quite dry and chapped skin in the beginning and this really seems to be helping in keeping his skin soft and healthy.

We enjoyed all of the products in this kit, and know other parents would as well! The Baby Starter Kit would make a perfect gift for parents and is the perfect size for travel. I really like the zippered bag it comes in, as this keeps everything in one place.

Weleda has many other great products as well. I would love to try their new pomegranate skin care products sometime.


Buy It: You can purchase the Weleda Calendula Baby Starter Kit for $13 on their website.

Win It: One lucky reader will win their very own Weleda Calendula Baby Starter Kit. To enter, visit Weleda and leave me a comment letting me know another product the carry.

Extra Entries: (only valid after the required initial entry has been completed)

1. For TWO extra entries, subscribe to A Mom's Balancing Act via e-mail (easily found along the side column). Be sure to leave TWO comments so that both entries can be counted.

2. For FIVE extra entries, blog about this giveaway (linking to this post and Weleda) and leave me FIVE comments with the URL to that post.

3. Post my blog button or blog URL to your blog and leave a comment with the URL to your blog. (If it already is, leave me a comment letting me know)

4. For TWO extra entries, Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway (Tweet once a day for an extra entry every day)! You can copy and paste: RT Win a Weleda Calendula Baby Care Kit @MomBalancingAct http://tinyurl.com/ybxwvrg Ends 1/29

5. Follow Weleda on Twitter

6. Become a Fan of A Mom's Balancing Act on Facebook

7. Become a Fan of Weleda on Facebook

8. Follow my blog publicly on Google Friend Connect

9. Enter one of my other giveaways and leave me a comment letting me know that you did (current giveaways can be found along the side column)....ONE entry for EACH giveaway you enter!!

Please be sure to leave me a *separate* comment for each entry you complete above including with each, your e-mail address so that I can easily and accurately contact the winner!!

This giveaway will end January 29th and is open to the US Only!

**The products for this review and giveaway were provided for free by Weleda. This was not a paid post and my honest opinions were given.**

As a busy mom, I have found that getting made up every day just doesn't happen. I do my best, but a little mascara is usually as far as I get. I know with our second baby due to arrive in just a few weeks...life will get even busier and the need for a quick morning routine will be a must!

That's why I was really excited to learn more about Mommy Makeup, a line of products made by a busy mom for the busy mom. Makeup artist and mom, Debra Rubin-Roberts, created Mommy Makeup to simplify the busy woman's daily beauty routine. Her "light bulb" moment came after having her baby and realizing that she didn't have the time she used to to put on several different products each day. After 2 1/2 years of development, Mommy Makeup was born and busy women had a place to find easy to use products that would allow them to Look Divine in Half the Time!

What I love most about the Mommy Makeup products is that they are all multi-purpose...no more having to screw and unscrew caps on individual items! This helps to save busy moms a lot of time and money! I think it's also great that they are made in the USA, allergy tested, hypo-allergenic and certified cruelty-free.

Mommy Makeup sent me their Mommy's Kisses lip gloss in the color Madison. I had a hard time deciding on a color to review as they have so many great shades to choose from!

Not only did I LOVE the color, but I also really liked that the lip liner came right in the lid. I learned quickly that this saves lots of time just not having to have two different products I'm try to open and use. It simply pulls out of the lid and is ready to use! Putting on my lip gloss and liner will only take seconds now!

Mommy Kisses would make a wonderful Christmas gift for any busy woman on your list this year. In fact, a great holiday gift would be their holiday mini-kit "A Bundle of Mommy's Kisses"! I'd love it, and know many other Mama's would as well!


I'd love to try several of their products. They have everything from foundations and eye shadows to bags and brushes. Any item or Mommy Makeup Kit would make a fantastic Christmas gift for the busy women in your life this holiday season!

Buy It: You can purchase Mommy's Kisses individually for $24 on their website. Their Mommy Makeup Kit, A Bundle of Mommy's Kisses can be purchased for $59. And, if you are in Canada, Mommy Makeup is available in the new beauty store, Murale.

How To Enter To Win: Mommy Makeup is offering one lucky reader a $50 Gift Card to use on their website. To enter, visit Mommy Makeup and leave me a comment letting me know another product they carry that you like.

How To Get Extra Entries: (only valid after the required initial entry has been completed)

1. For TWO extra entries, subscribe to A Mom's Balancing Act via e-mail (easily found along the side column). Be sure to leave TWO comments so that both entries can be counted.

2. For FIVE extra entries, blog about this giveaway (linking to this post and Mommy Makeup) and leave me FIVE comments with the URL to that post.

3. Post my blog button or blog URL to your blog and leave a comment with the URL to your blog. (If it already is, leave me a comment letting me know)

4. For THREE extra entries, post my Holiday Extravaganza event button to your blog and leave me THREE comments with the URL to your blog. (button can be found along side column)

5. For TWO extra entries, Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway (Tweet once a day for an extra entry every day)! You can copy and paste: Enter the Holiday Extravaganza #8: Mommy Makeup $50 GC Giveaway @MomBalancingAct http://bit.ly/3CPAgZ Ends 11/25

6. Become a Fan of A Mom's Balancing Act on Facebook

7. Sign up for the Mommy Makeup Newsletter

8. Follow my blog publicly on Google Friend Connect

9. Enter one of my other giveaways and leave me a comment letting me know that you did (current giveaways can be found along the side column)....ONE entry for EACH giveaway you enter!!

Please be sure to leave me a *separate* comment for each entry you complete above including with each, your e-mail address so that I can easily and accurately contact the winner!!

This giveaway will end November 25th and is open US and Canada!

**The products for this review and giveaway were provided for free by Mommy Makeup. This was not a paid post and my honest opinions were given.**

I'm having a lot of fun Christmas shopping for Kaelyn this year. She's beginning to have more and more interests and is your typical "girly girl". I was thinking about small ideas I could put in her stocking, and Piggy Paint came to mind! I did a review a while back from Piggy Paint and Kaelyn loves using the sample we received.

A little bit about Piggy Paint for those who may have missed the review:

Piggy paint is an eco-friendly nail polish, perfect for little piggies. In fact, their motto is actually "Natural as Mud"!! It's kid-friendly, non-toxic, free of harsh chemicals like formaldehyde, phthalates, biphenyl A, ethyl acetate and acetone, and it's odorless!! Made from water and other natural ingredients, I am comforted to know that this is not only safe to use on my daughter's little piggies, but it's also safe for the environment!!

If you're looking for a fun and smaller gift idea for a little girl in your life....you may want to consider Piggy Paint. If you're interested, I have been notified of a great coupon code for all to use. Just use coupon code THANKYOU15L to receive 15% of EVERYTHING on the Piggy Paint website, including Sale Items that would run through Valentine's Day 2010. They offer FREE domestic shipping on all orders over $25 and ship worldwide!

For secret sales and special offers you can also follow Piggy Paint on Twitter and become a Fan on Facebook.

**This information was passed along to me to share with my readers from Piggy Paint. This was not a paid post and no product was received.**

I love finding unique gift ideas for those on my gift list each year. I think some of the greatest gifts to give are those which allow people to pamper themselves. Everyone enjoys a little "me" time right?!? I know I enjoy gifts like this. That's why I was happy to learn more about the Natural Bath and Body Shop.

The Natural Bath and Body Shop offers a large selection of bath and body products, ranging from things like sea sponges and natural olive oil soap to bath accessories and massagers. As I searched through their website for the first time, I was very impressed with all of the unique options they offer. Who doesn't want to pamper themselves, let alone do so with natural products?!

I was thrilled to have the opportunity to review their Bath & Shower Gift Basket: Value Sized. It's truly the perfect gift idea for anyone, man or woman!

This particular gift basket includes

• Olive Oil Soap (4.4oz)
• Wood Soap Dish
• 4" Raw Loofah
• 3.5" Cambric Fiber Cleansing Pad
• Your choice of 4"-5" Yellow or Prime Wool Sponge
• Small Hair Brush
• Nailbrush with Pumice Stone
• 10"x6" Natural Gift Basket
  

I loved how this gift basket was displayed and the products in it were wonderful! I think my favorite would have to be the olive oil soap. I enjoy using natural products like this. The nailbrush with pumice stone was also really neat. After trying out the different products included in this gift basket and enjoying them so much, I would love to try some of their other products at some point.

Like their Natural Wood Massagers...



And their natural bath products for babies and children. I absolutely love this Kid and Baby Bath-Time Gift Basket!


If you're looking for a fun and unique gift for someone on your gift list this Holiday Season, I would recommend checking out the Natural Bath and Body Shop! They have such a great variety of items available and something for everyone!

Buy It: The Bath and Shower Gift Basket-Value Sized can be purchased on the Natural Bath and Body Shop website for $22.97.

How To Enter To Win: The Natural Bath and Body Shop has generously offered one lucky reader a $20 Gift Certificate to use on their website! To enter, visit the Natural Bath and Body Shop and leave me a comment letting me know another product they carry that you'd love to try.

How To Get Extra Entries: (only valid after the required initial entry has been completed)

1. For TWO extra entries, subscribe to A Mom's Balancing Act via e-mail (easily found along the side column). Be sure to leave TWO comments so that both entries can be counted.

2. For FIVE extra entries, blog about this giveaway (linking to this post and the Natural Bath and Body Shop) and leave me FIVE comments with the URL to that post.

3. Post my blog button or blog URL to your blog and leave a comment with the URL to your blog. (If it already is, leave me a comment letting me know)

4. For THREE extra entries, post my Holiday Extravaganza event button to your blog and leave me THREE comments with the URL to your blog. (button can be found along side column)

5. For TWO extra entries, Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway (Tweet once a day for an extra entry every day)! Enter the Holiday Extravaganza #2: Natural Bath and Body Shop $20 GC Giveaway @MomBalancingAct http://bit.ly/4f3wKC Ends 11/17 (If tweeting every day, you may have to vary this a little bit as Twitter is not allowing duplicate tweets anymore)

6. Become a Fan of A Mom's Balancing Act on Facebook

7. Follow my blog publicly on Google Friend Connect

8. Enter one of my other giveaways and leave me a comment letting me know that you did (current giveaways can be found along the side column)....ONE entry for EACH giveaway you enter!!

9. For FIVE extra entries, purchase anything from the Natural Bath and Body Shop website before the end of this giveaway (be sure to leave FIVE separate comments when doing so to ensure each entry is counted).

Please be sure to leave me a *separate* comment for each entry you complete above including with each, your e-mail address so that I can easily and accurately contact the winner!!

This giveaway will end November 17th and is open to the US and Canada!

**The products for this review and giveaway were provided for free by the Natural Bath and Body Shop. This was not a paid post and my honest opinions were given.**

As many of you probably know, October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month! To help raise awareness, MyBlogSpark has teamed up with Pink Together to provide information on a great online community on MySpace and offer one lucky reader a Pink Together Inspiring Hope Gift Basket!

The online community is where you'll find those who have been touched by breast cancer. They can connect and provide support, comfort and encouragement to one another! I think it's fantastic! Anyone can share hope by sharing and reading stories on Pink Together website. To help support Pink Together, General Mills is donating $2 million to Susan G Komen for the Cure and is turning the packaging pink on a variety of brands. They will donate $1, up to $20,000, each time someone posts a comment of encouragement, sends a virtual flower bouquet, or shares a story on PinkTogether.com through October 31st!

As I mentioned, to help generate awareness, one lucky reader will win an Inspiring Hope Gift Basket that includes a:

• Sleeved Travel Mug (love it!)
  
• Running Ribbon Charm Bracelet
• Pink Leather Strap Keychain
• Pink Cinch Bag
• Set of Inspirational Note Cards

All of the items in this gift basket are from ShopKomen.com, where 25% of the merchandise purchase price benefits Susan G. Komen for the Cure in the fight against breast cancer! I was thrilled to have the opportunity to review one of these gift baskets and can tell you that the items are wonderful! What a great way to inspire and generate awareness!

How To Enter To Win: To enter for a chance to win this fantastic Inspiring Hope Gift Basket, leave a comment sharing which women in your life inspire you the most, or what you find most inspiring about the PinkTogether.com Community.

How To Get Extra Entries: (only valid after the required initial entry has been completed)

1. Post a comment of encouragement, send a virtual flower bouquet or share a story on the PinkTogether.com website and leave me a comment letting me know that you did.

2. For TWO extra entries, subscribe to A Mom's Balancing Act via e-mail (easily found along the side column). Be sure to leave TWO comments so that both entries can be counted.

3. Post my blog button or blog URL to your blog and leave a comment with the URL to your blog. (If it already is, leave me a comment letting me know)

4. Post my Holiday Extravaganza blog button to your blog and leave a comment with the URL to your blog. (If it already is, leave me a comment letting me know)

5. For TWO extra entries, Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway (Tweet once a day for an extra entry every day)! You can copy and paste: Enter for a chance to win a Pink Together Inspiring Hope Gift Basket @MomBalancingAct http://bit.ly/gr4Y Ends 11/9 (Since it appears Twitter is no longer letting you do duplicate tweets, you may have to change slightly if tweeting every day)

6. Become a Fan of A Mom's Balancing Act on Facebook

7. For TWO extra entries, Follow my blog publicly on Google Friend Connect

8. Enter one of my other giveaways and leave me a comment letting me know that you did (current giveaways can be found along the side column)....ONE entry for EACH giveaway you enter!!

Please be sure to leave me a *separate* comment for each entry you complete above including with each, your e-mail address so that I can easily and accurately contact the winner!!

This giveaway will end November 9th and is open to the US Only!

**The information and products for this review and giveaway were provided for free by Pink Together through MyBlogSpark. This was not a paid post and my honest opinions were given.**

I was recently introduced to Cover Your Hair and have to say I was very impressed with the large selection of hair accessories they offer! I've always been a "girly girl" and enjoy having new things to put in my hair and on my head! I enjoyed browsing their website and looking through their headbands, hats, clips, pony tail holders and more. What's great is that they have so many different designs which are sure to fit the tastes and styles of many!

Cover Your Hair sent me their Colorful Stripes Pre-Tied Bandana to review.

Although, I am more of a hat wearer, it was fun to receive one of these bandannas to get a better feel for the quality and styles Cover Your Hair offers. I was impressed with how soft and comfortable it was! It's lycra material seems to be very good quality as well. There are many more styles of the Pre-Tied Bandanas available, all of which can be found on their website!

As I said before, the Cover Your Hair website has a lot of great hair accessories to offer. I found many that I'd love to have. The following are just a few....

I love cute hats, especially this time of year when it's getting chilly. The Beret and Soft Pull-On Hat are probably my favorites!
I also love hair accessories. The cute Pony Holders and Un-Tied Headbands are definitely something I would wear!

Buy It: The Colorful Stripes Pre-Tied Bandana can be purchased on the Cover Your Hair website for $12.79. Cover Your Hair products would make a wonderful gift for both women and girls.

How To Enter To Win: Cover Your Hair has generously offered one lucky reader a $25 gift pack of surprise Hair Accessories! To enter, visit the Cover Your Hair website and leave me a comment letting me know what your favorite item is that they carry.

How To Get Extra Entries: (only valid after the required initial entry has been completed)

1. For TWO extra entries, subscribe to A Mom's Balancing Act via e-mail (easily found along the side column). Be sure to leave TWO comments so that both entries can be counted.

2. For TWO extra entries, blog about this giveaway (linking to this post and Cover Your Hair) and leave me a comment with the URL to that post.

3. Post my blog button or blog URL to your blog and leave a comment with the URL to your blog. (If it already is, leave me a comment letting me know)

4. For TWO extra entries, Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway (Tweet once a day for an extra entry every day)! You can copy and paste: Enter to win the Cover Your Hair $25 Hair Accessories Gift Pack Giveaway @MomBalancingAct http://bit.ly/26NFe Ends10/21

5. Follow Cover Your Hair on Twitter

6. Become a Fan of A Mom's Balancing Act on Facebook

7. Become a Fan of Cover Your Hair on Facebook (free item always being offered)

8. Follow Cover Your Hair publicly on Google Friendly Connect

9. For TWO extra entries, Follow my blog publicly on Google Friend Connect

10. Enter one of my other giveaways and leave me a comment letting me know that you did (current giveaways can be found along the side column)....ONE entry for EACH giveaway you enter!!

11. For FIVE extra entries, purchase anything from the Cover Your Hair website before the end of this giveaway (be sure to leave FIVE separate comments when doing so to ensure each entry is counted).

Please be sure to leave me a *separate* comment for each entry you complete above including with each, your e-mail address so that I can easily and accurately contact the winner!!

This giveaway will end October 21st and is open Worldwide!

**The products for this review and giveaway were provided by Cover Your Hair. This was not a paid post and my honest opinions were given.**

It's become increasingly important to me to make sure that we're using the safest and non-toxic products in our household once Kaelyn was born. In my search for the most pure and natural products for my family to use, I happened to come across Nature's Baby! This was not a company I had heard of before, but I was very impressed after browsing their website and learning more about them!! Nature's Baby is a family owned and operated business. It was born when mom, Adena, went searching for pure and natural baby care products after her 1 year old broke out in a mysterious rash all over her body and her second daughter suffered from severe eczema.

Nature's Baby sent us their Vanilla Tangerine Shampoo and Body Wash to try. I was really excited to have the opportunity to use it on Kaelyn and to have something with such a unique and great smell!! After using it the first time, I quickly realized that this is a company who's main goal is to provide safe products without compromising the quality! I say this, because as I used it on Kaelyn I noticed how well it lathered and rinsed out. A little really went a long way and in the end it left her hair clean and soft! In the times following that we've used this product, we've had the same great experience! I LOVE the smell, and most importantly, I love knowing that it's free of dangerous phthalates, parabens, 100% Vegan, and safe to use on our little girl.

The great thing about Nature's Baby is that they not only offer the Shampoo and Body Wash I had the opportunity to review, but many other products as well! At some point I'd love to try them all...especially the Organic Diaper Cream and the All Purpose Deodorizer. I am thrilled to have found this company in time for the birth of our second baby this Fall! I think you'll really like all they have to offer as well!


Buy It: Nature's Baby products can be purchased on the Nature's Baby website. They are also going to be going into 300 Target Stores, a list of which can be found here. I am very excited about this! Now I can easily find this wonderful product on the shelves of a local store that so many of us shop at!

When Kaelyn first began walking, I heard from many people that she should be walking around barefoot as much as possible. Although we tried to do this when inside...it was next to impossible to have her barefoot outside seeing how it was the middle of winter here! I wanted to make sure that we were still doing what was best for her.

Thankfully Pediped knows what is best for little feet! They offer a large selection of soft-soled shoes that are flexible and much like being barefoot, but with the protection necessary when outdoors...recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association. I wish I had known about Pediped when she first began walking...but the great part is, it's not too late! They have their Originals Collection which fits children 0-2 years old and their Flex Collection for children 1-6+ years old. It's great to know that we can now ensure better foot health for Kaelyn for many more years to come!

Pediped sent Kaelyn a pair of their Kylie-white/pink shoes from their Original Collection. When we first received them in the mail, I was very impressed with the packaging and signature box that the shoes came in. Having them displayed so nicely would make a pair of Pediped shoes a very nice baby gift for someone! I was also very pleased with the quality of these shoes! Kaelyn just loves them and asks to wear them all the time! They are just darling and go with many of the outfits she wears! I am sure a big reason why she finds these to be her new favorite shoe is because they are so comfortable with the double layer of leather plus a foam pad on the soles for extra cushioning!

Pediped shoes can be purchased right on the Pediped website and at a number of retail locations as well!

We're always looking for ways to eat healthier...especially now that we have Kaelyn. She eats many organic foods and I do my best to make sure she gets the food groups she needs each day as well. That's why I was thrilled to learn more about Funky Monkey Snacks and have the opportunity to try them!! With obesity on the rise among children in America today, and the desire of many to learn more about healthy snacking and eating...I thought I'd pass along a little information about these snacks and our experience with them.

Funky Monkey Snacks are a healthier alternative to the snacks available to children that we find on our grocery store shelves....like cookies, candy, etc. So what makes Funky Monkey Snacks so great? Well....they are freeze dried fruit-all natural, with no added sugar, preservatives, colors or flavors! They are also gluten free, wheat free and dairy free. In every ounce there is actually 3 servings of fruit! I wasn't sure how we, or Kaelyn would like them, so I was very anxious to try them when the package arrived. We received all four flavors available: Bananamon (banana/cinnamon), Carnaval Mix (banana, pineapple, papaya, and raisins), Jivealime (pineapple/lime juice) and Purple Funk (banana/acai berries). We tried them all, and a personal favorite of all three of us was the Bananamon. Kaelyn liked them all, but this was especially her favorite! She LOVES Bananas! I was amazed at how well she ate these snacks and it was great knowing that I was giving her something healthy and natural. It's definitely a snack I would recommend to anyone with children!

You can learn more about these snacks and where they can be purchased on the Funky Monkey Snacks website!

I've often said that once I entered motherhood, it became even more important to me to make sure I was using the safest products available. I want to give Kaelyn, as well as our little one on the way, the very best start in life...and that means choosing the very best products for them and our family! I've always been a fan of Earth Mama Angel Baby for this reason! They offer a large variety of body care items and teas that are perfect for Baby and Mama! You'll find products which support the entire birth process...everything from pregnancy to delivery to caring for your baby! The best part is...all of their products are 100% natural, organic, and toxin-free! It's great to know that there are safe products out there for baby as well as the expecting Mama!

I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to try the Angel Baby Kit from Earth Mama Angel Baby! It has all the necessities for your little one, including the organic bath blossoms which help to calm fussy babies, their diaper rash balm which is absolutely amazing, mild shampoo and body wash, organic baby lotion, oil for sensitive skin, and the Angel Baby Sleep CD!! It's a wonderful set and one I'd recommend to any parent with a little one!! I found all of these natural baby care products to be perfect for Kaelyn's sensitive skin and am so happy I have them to use with our second baby once he/she arrives! I also received the Peaceful Mama Tea which is great for those of us who are expecting and need something to help us relax, naturally and safely with a delicious blend of calming herbs! Both products I received were beautifully packaged! Any of the Earth Mama Angel Baby products would make remarkable baby shower gifts!!

It's great to know that the products Earth Mama Angel Baby offers are as safe as possible. I learned even more about this and the products I was using at the time, when I visited the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics’ Skin Deep Database!! I began entering everyday products we use...like Johnson's Baby Shampoo for instance...and it was truly shocking how toxic a product like this is!! The toxicity rating was 5...out of the most toxic rating being 10! Yikes! It was eye opening, that's for sure!

I am thrilled because, Earth Mama Angel Baby has generously offered one of my readers the A Little Something For Baby Kit (includes: Angel Baby lotion, Angel Baby shampoo & body wash, and Angel Baby bottom balm).

How To Enter To Win: To win, visit the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics' Skin Deep Database and enter a personal care product you use (shampoo, lotion, etc). Leave me a comment letting me know these three things (Your answer to these three simple questions will count as your required, initial entry):

1. What your Skin Deep toxicity rating for that product was
2. How did you feel about the score (surprised??)
3. If you entered an "organic" or "natural" product, did the rating surprise you?

How To Get Extra Entries: (only valid after the required initial entry has been completed)

1. For TWO extra entries, subscribe to A Mom's Balancing Act via e-mail (easily found along the side column). Be sure to leave TWO comments so that both entries can be counted.

2. For TWO extra entries, blog about this giveaway (linking to this post and Earth Mama Angel Baby) and leave me a comment with the URL to that post. Also, be sure to leave TWO comments so that both entries can be counted.

3. Post my blog button or blog URL to your blog and leave a comment with the URL to your blog. (If it already is, leave me a comment letting me know)

4. For TWO extra entries, Follow my blog publicly

5. Follow Earth Mama Angel Baby on Twitter

6. Follow me on Twitter here and tweet about this giveaway! You can copy and paste: Earth Mama Angel Baby: A Little Something For Baby Kit Giveaway @MomBalancingAct http://bit.ly/3eKfvZ Ends 8/17

7. Enter one of my other giveaways and leave me a comment letting me know that you did (current giveaways can be found along the side column)....ONE entry for EACH giveaway you enter!!

8. For THREE extra entries, purchase anything from the Earth Mama Angel Baby website before the end of this giveaway (be sure to leave THREE separate comments when doing so to ensure each entry is counted).

Please be sure to leave me a *separate* comment for each entry you complete above including with each, your e-mail address so that I can easily and accurately contact the winner!!

This giveaway will end August 17th and is open to US Residents Only!

Even though we live in the midwest where summer seems to last just a couple of months and our time outdoors is limited...it's still important that we make sure we're taking every step we can to keep our skin safe from the sun's harmful rays. I particularly get concerned about the sensitive skin of our daughter and am always looking for ways to make sure she is safe while playing outdoors!

That's why I was excited to learn more about the SunMate from Purely Products, a green products company that focuses on distributing innovative and environmentally friendly products that lead to healthier lifestyles. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to review this product first hand! The product description points out that we can't be fooled into thinking that a few clouds will help protect us from the sun's harmful rays. Sometimes I forget that. It's important to be knowledgeable about the harmful effects of UV rays and SunMate gives you just that!! Now we can have fun in the sun safely while measuring the intensity of the sun's strength.

I personally was very impressed with the SunMate and liked how it put my mind at ease while outdoors! I really appreciated how it alerted us of possible over-exposure to UV rays from the sun! Another great thing about it is that it's SO easy to use. All we had to do was press the white button at the top and LED indicators lit up between 1 and 5 depending on the intensity of the UV light to help us take the appropriate precautions. At just 2.5 inches tall and 2 inches wide it was also very easy to take with us wherever we went....to the park, pool, on a picnic, etc.

I would definitely recommend this product to anyone who spends time outdoors no matter where they live! It's a great reminder of the sun's intensity and when action needs to be taken to help protect you and your family!

Buy It: The SunMate can be purchased on the Purely Products website for just $19.95! It can also be found at a number of retailer locations nationwide, as well as CVS.com and Amazon.com!

How To Enter To Win: Purely Products has generously offered one of my readers their very own SunMate UV Monitor!! To enter to win, visit the Purely Products website and leave me a comment letting me know another product they carry.

How To Get Extra Entries: (only valid after the required initial entry has been completed)

1. For TWO extra entries, subscribe to A Mom's Balancing Act via e-mail (easily found along the side column). Be sure to leave TWO comments so that both entries can be counted.

2. For TWO extra entries, blog about this giveaway (linking to this post and Purely Products) and leave me a comment with the URL to that post. Also, be sure to leave TWO comments so that both entries can be counted.

3. Post my blog button or blog URL to your blog and leave a comment with the URL to your blog. (If it already is, leave me a comment letting me know)

4. For TWO extra entries, Follow my blog publicly

5. Follow me on Twitter here and tweet about this giveaway! You can copy and paste: Purely Products SunMate UV Monitor Giveaway @MomBalancingAct http://bit.ly/uQ4tX Ends 8/12

6. Enter one of my other giveaways and leave me a comment letting me know that you did (current giveaways can be found along the side column)....ONE entry for EACH giveaway you enter!!

7. For THREE extra entries, purchase anything from the Purely Products website before the end of this giveaway (be sure to leave THREE separate comments when doing so to ensure each entry is counted).

Please be sure to leave me a *separate* comment for each entry you complete above including with each, your e-mail address so that I can easily and accurately contact the winner!!

This giveaway will end August 12th and is open to US Only!

The Hazelaid: Hazelwood Jewelry For Adults and Babies Giveaway ends TONIGHT! If you haven't already, hurry for your chance to win one of these great items....great in helping those with conditions such as Eczema, Acne, Headaches and more!!

There are also a few other giveaways going on that you will want to check out!!

The Breezy Oaks Baby Boutique Giveaway-Ends August 5th

The Free Pillsbury Coupons/Prize Pack Giveaway-Ends August 6th

The Ecostore USA $25 Gift Card Giveaway-Ends August 11th

Before I had Kaelyn I have to admit that "green products" were not something I was very familiar with. It's amazing though how your perspective on things change once you have a baby. All of a sudden I became more aware of the hazardous chemicals in the cleaning products we were using and was determined to find a "greener" way to clean. I am so happy I turned to natural products! It helps to put my mind at ease knowing that my family is not being exposed to all toxins in so many products on the market today!!

I am always looking to learn more about natural cleaning products and brands people are using. That is why I was thrilled when I was contacted by Ecostore USA to review a couple of their environmentally friendly, plant and mineral-based household cleaning and personal care products that are not only safe for our planet...but also our families! They contain NO nasty chemicals! They gave us the chance to use their Baby Body Wash and Laundry Liquid.

I was very impressed with their Baby Body Wash! Ever since Kaelyn was a baby her skin has been quite sensitive to the products we use on her. Knowing this, we've always tried to use products that are as mild as possible. That's what I found to be true with this product! It was extremely mild and had no harsh effects on her skin at all. In fact, it left her skin feeling very smooth and healthy! It put my mind at ease that I not only didn't have to worry about her breaking out from this product, but also that it was safe.

The Laundry Liquid was equally as great!! It leaves absolutely no chemical residue build up on the items you wash like so many other products out there. I am very cautious with the laundry detergents I use...especially with Kaelyn's clothing. I enjoy the fact that this laundry liquid does not irritate her skin and leaves clothing clean. I have started using it on all of our clothes and will for the baby's clothing once he/she arrives this Fall as well!

They offer a number of products other than these that I'd love to try...like their Citrus Spray Cleaner and Baby Moisturizer. It's great knowing that they are safe and actually do what they are made to do! It's a line of products I will definitely be sure and tell others about! Oh...and on orders of $25 or more they offer FREE shipping!!

How To Enter To Win: Ecostore USA has generously offered one of my readers a $25 Gift Card! To enter to win all you have to do is visit the Ecostore USA website and leave me a comment letting me know what you'd use your $25 Gift Card to purchase if you won!!

How To Get Extra Entries: (only valid after the required initial entry has been completed)

1. For TWO extra entries, subscribe to A Mom's Balancing Act via e-mail (easily found along the side column). Be sure to leave TWO comments so that both entries can be counted.

2. For TWO extra entries, blog about this giveaway (linking to this post and Ecostore USA) and leave me a comment with the URL to that post. Also, be sure to leave TWO comments so that both entries can be counted.

3. Post my blog button or blog URL to your blog and leave a comment with the URL to your blog. (If it already is, leave me a comment letting me know)

4. Follow Ecostore USA on Twitter

5. Sign up for the Ecostore USA No Nasty Chemicals Newsletter

6. For TWO extra entries, Follow my blog publicly

7. Follow me on Twitter here and tweet about this giveaway! You can copy and paste: Ecostore USA $25 Gift Card Giveaway @MomBalancingAct http://bit.ly/a1PEE Ends 8/11

8. Enter one of my other giveaways and leave me a comment letting me know that you did (current giveaways can be found along the side column)....ONE entry for EACH giveaway you enter!!

9. For THREE extra entries, purchase anything from the Ecostore USA website before the end of this giveaway (be sure to leave THREE separate comments when doing so to ensure each entry is counted).

Please be sure to leave me a *separate* comment for each entry you complete above including with each, your e-mail address so that I can easily and accurately contact the winner!!

This giveaway will end August 11th and is open to US Only!

If you're like me then you always look for the most natural and non-toxic products out there...especially when it comes to your little one. Before having Kaelyn I really didn't think twice about the products I used...however, after having her my whole perspective on the issue changed completely! It became my top priority to give her the very best start in life and that meant choosing wisely when it came to the products we use...whether it be food, lotions, soaps, cleaners, etc. I am always open to learning about new products available and was excited to be introduced to Hazelaid, a company born from a family who was introduced to the healing properties of all-natural hazelwood products!

The daughter of Severine Stegner and her husband (Hazelaid business owners), was suffering with severe eczema at a very young age at the time they learned about these necklaces. They tried them out and within 2 weeks of her wearing it, her eczema was gone!! That was the beginning of their journey with hazelwood necklaces and their online business, Hazelaid!

The daughter of Severine wearing her necklace at 6 months old


In browsing their website, you'll find that they offer hazelwood necklaces, bracelets and other related products that have natural therapeutic properties. They can help to alleviate teething pain as well as eczema and acid reflux in babies, children and even adults! What I found to be most impressive about these products is that they're all-natural, organic and safe for both babies and adults! Hazelwood has actually been used for hundreds of years by the Native Americans to help alleviate their babies' teething pains. They have since found that it can also help to allieviate many other ailments causing an acidity imbalance in the body, such as....

Arthritis
Osteoporosis
Acid reflux
Heart burn
Ulcers
Acne
Cold sores
Eczema
Headaches
Migraines

These hazelwood products can help you alleviate your/your baby's symptoms in a natural way. Just read some of their testimonials from customers who have used these products.

Their hazelwood necklaces come in adorable baby-safe child models, fashionable adult models, as well as bracelets and anklets. And....here's the best part! Severine has offered one lucky reader a piece of Hazelaid jewelry of their choice (either a child necklace or an adult necklace, bracelet, or anklet)!!

One example of the many baby models

One example of the many adult models

How To Enter To Win: All you have to do is visit Hazelaid and come back leaving me a comment letting me know which piece of Hazelaid jewelry you would choose.

How To Get Extra Entries: (only valid after the required initial entry has been completed)

1. For TWO extra entries, subscribe to A Mom's Balancing Act. Be sure to leave TWO comments so that both entries can be counted.

2. For TWO extra entries, blog about this giveaway (linking to both this post and Hazelaid) and leave me a comment with the URL to that post. Also, be sure to leave TWO comments so that both entries can be counted.

3. Follow me on Twitter here

4. Tweet about this giveaway on Twitter: You can copy and paste - Hazelaid Jewelry For Babies and Adults Giveaway @MomBalancingAct http://bit.ly/156Axc

5. Post my blog button or blog URL to your blogroll and leave a comment with the URL to your blog.

8. If you have Entrecard, drop your card on me.

9. Enter my other giveaways and leave me a comment letting me know that you did (current giveaways can be found at the top in the right-hand column)....ONE entry for EACH giveaway you enter!!

10. For THREE extra entries, purchase anything from the Hazelaid website before the end of this giveaway (be sure to leave THREE separate comments when doing so to ensure each entry is counted).

Please be sure to leave me a *separate* comment for each entry you complete above including with each, your e-mail address so that I can easily and accurately contact the winner!!

This giveaway will end July 29th and is open to the US and Canada!

As many of you may already have known...June was Dairy Month. It's a great reminder to us all of the benefits of dairy, not only nutritionally, but also for those who are looking to maintain their healthy lifestyle while still sticking within a budget (especially given the current state of our economy)!

Just a few quick facts on milk and dairy that may be of interest to you....

• Milk packs nine essential nutrients at only 25 cents per glass. Many designer drinks, sodas, and fruit drinks are high in calories and expensive!
• Though protein is one of the most expensive parts of the diet, dairy foods are one of the most economical sources of protein and calcium, both of which are important for the growth and development of strong bones and teeth.
• A 1 oz serving of hard cheese, like cheddar for instance, contains 8 grams of protein, and an 8 oz serving of yogurt provides nearly a third of your suggest daily calcium intake.

These are just a few of many facts which can be found at Dairy Makes Sense. I am thankful to have come across this site after being introduced to it on behalf of the Midwest Dairy Council. It's a wonderful resource where you'll find a variety of nutrition value tips and information, as well as a number of recipes you can try out. I really appreciated the shopping tips that are given.

I am so excited to celebrate the benefits of dairy with you by hosting a giveaway so generously sponsored by the Midwest Dairy Council! They are offering 7 readers a prize pack full of coupons and more! This giveaway is open to those who live in Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota and South Dakota. Each of the 7 winners will receive a coupon bundle as well as some other great items as pictured:

• 2 FREE Land O Lakes milk coupons
• 1 Old Home or Gaymont Product Coupon
• 4 Borden Single Sensations Cheese "one free and $1 for a friend" coupon
• Reusable grocery bag
• Jump Rope for Kids (or the kid at heart)
• Recipe Booklets
• Magnetic Fridge Pad

Don't miss out on your chance to continue to stay healthy and get some FREE groceries!!

How To Enter To Win: All you have to do is visit Dairy Makes Sense and leave me a comment letting me know something you learned!

How To Get Extra Entries: (only valid after the required initial entry has been completed)

1. For TWO extra entries, subscribe to A Mom's Balancing Act. Be sure to leave TWO comments so that both entries can be counted.

2. For TWO extra entries, blog about this giveaway (linking to both this post and the Midwest Dairy Council) and leave me a comment with the URL to that post. Also, be sure to leave TWO comments so that both entries can be counted.

3. Post my blog button or blog URL to your blogroll and leave a comment with the URL to your blog. (If it already is, leave me a comment letting me know)

4. Digg this giveaway ("Digg This" can be found at the bottom of this post) and leave me a comment once you have done so.

5. If you have Entrecard, drop your card on me and let me know once you have.

6. Follow me on Twitter here (if you already do, leave me a comment letting me know)

7. Tweet about this giveaway. You may copy and paste the following...Dairy Makes Sense: Midwest Dairy Council Giveaway - dairy coupons/prize pack for MN, IA, ND and SD residents http://bit.ly/QrOCH

8. Enter one of my other giveaways and leave me a comment letting me know that you did (current giveaways can be found at the top in the right-hand column)....ONE entry for EACH giveaway you enter!!

Please be sure to leave me a *separate* comment for each entry you complete above including with each, your e-mail address so that I can easily and accurately contact the winner!!

This giveaway will end July 23rd and is open to residents of Minnesota, Iowa, South Dakota and North Dakota!

Who doesn't like free right?!? Well, I learned from Zack, aka Coupon Dad, that right now you can get a FREE Murad Acne Spot Treatment Deluxe sample at Sephora!! Now through July 31, 2009 (while supplies last) you can get this sample by just asking the sales associate in store or by using the online code: MURADACNE3! It's that easy!

Note: Not valid at Sephora inside JCPenney or the Sephora Canada stores

What's great is that there's no purchase necessary! Check it out and get your free sample today!

Thank you SO much to everyone who entered this giveaway...all of your comments and interest are greatly appreciated! Be sure to check back frequently...I have some other great giveaways coming very soon!!

My giveaways can always be found towards the top in the right-hand column! There are some great ones going on right now that you don't want to miss!!

And, the winner of the Exergen Giveaway is....

Commenter #147 Madison Says: "I subscribe 2"

The Exergen TemporalScanner Thermometer Giveaway will end tomorrow night, June 25th! Hurry for your chance to win one of these great thermometers! They are perfect for use on yourself or you little one!

Also...don't forget to checkout the other giveaways I have going on and keep your eye out for more great giveaways to come very soon!

I am always up for trying new healthy foods and drinks for my family. I was recently introduced to a new on-the-go fruit snack called Fruit2day and was very pleased! Fruit2day is one of the newest ways for people to eat fruit. They are packaged in a convenient 6.5oz bottle that you can easily grab wherever you are. What's great is that it's made with real fruit bits and is only 120 calories....not to mention that each offers 2 full servings of fruit!!!

It's a very unique concept...having 100% fruit juice and real fruit bits all in one. I wasn't sure how I'd like it, but after one sip can tell you that it's delicious! My husband and daughter loved it as well!! What I liked best was knowing it was a healthy snack choice for my family. This all natural, no sugar added product is one I would choose any day. I'm so happy to have had the chance to learn more about it and try it for myself!

I would recommend anyone looking to learn more about Fruit2Day, visit their website here!