Showing posts with label Erin. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Erin. Show all posts

Sunday, August 2, 2009

Summer Safety Survival Guide: Ten Tips to Keep Your Family Safe

Pool Safety

1. Supervision is a must: Good supervision means you are able to scan the pool area every 10 seconds and be able to reach the pool in 20 seconds.



2. Put multiple safety barriers between children and the pool: Install a four-foot fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate that has a locking mechanism beyond a child's reach. Also be sure to cut overhanging tree limbs and remove chairs or ladders from the pool area to prevent children from climbing over the fence surrounding the pool.



3. Always check the pool first if a child is missing: Child drowning is often a silent death that alerts no one with splashes or yells for help. Many drowning accidents happen when children have been missing for less than five minutes.



4. Empty small wading pools after children are done playing and remove all toys: Infants can drown in just a few inches of water. Pool toys may attract children to the pool when it is unattended.



Backyard Safety

5. Keep grills at least 10 feet from any structure: Grilling mishaps cause more than 8,300 fires and send 3,000 people to the emergency room each year. Never grill indoors or near garages or porches, even if it’s raining.



6. Have a spray bottle or fire extinguisher handy: An unexpected flare-up can burn more than your burgers. Use a spray bottle filled with water to avoid flare-ups and have a fire extinguisher nearby. Also, coals get hot – in some cases up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit – so dispose of charcoal away from kids and pets and cool it down with a hose.



7. Never use gasoline or kerosene to light a charcoal fire: Both can cause an explosion. When grilling, use insulated, flame retardant mitts and long handled barbeque tongs and utensils to handle food and coals.



8. Check gas grill hoses for cracking, brittleness, holes and leaks: If the tank valve or grill needs repair, do not attempt to do it yourself. Take it to your local home improvement store or qualified appliance repair person.



9. Inspect outdoor decorative lights carefully: Some families may be adding backyard ambience with outdoor decorative lighting. Do not connect more than three midget light string sets together. Light strings with screw-in bulbs should have a maximum of 50 bulbs connected together. Be sure to use light strings that bear the UL Mark -- the UL Mark on a product means that UL has tested samples of the product for risk of fire, electric shock and other hazards.



Playground Safety

10. Carefully inspect backyard playground equipment: According to the CPSC, seventy percent of all playground-related deaths occur on home playground equipment. Make sure equipment is anchored safely in the ground, all equipment pieces are in good working order, S-hooks are entirely closed and bolts are not protruding.


These tips came from Underwriters Laboratories. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is an independent product safety certification organization that has been testing products and writing Standards for Safety for over a century. UL evaluates more than 19,000 types of products, components, materials and systems annually with 20 billion UL Marks appearing on 72,000 manufacturers' products each year. UL's worldwide family of companies and network of service providers includes 64 laboratory, testing and certification facilities serving customers in 98 countries. For more information, visit: http://www.ul.com/consumers.

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Saturday, July 25, 2009

Not Going to BlogHer - $100 Sponsorship

The Mom Buzz, Life in a House of Blue and Look What Mom Found didn't go to BlogHer this year - like many of you. And we made a list explaining why we were THRILLED to be home this weekend. It's a non-blogher sponsorship contest (thanks cozi) and the more comments we have, the more likely we are to win the contest. So if you can find the time to mosey on over and give comment luv... we'd totally appreciate it.

the Mom Buzz - NonBlogHer Post
Life in a House of Blue - NonBlogHer Post
Look What Mom Found - NonBlogHer Post

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Sunday, July 19, 2009

Are Your Kids Traveling Alone This Summer?

There are many kids who fly alone during the summer. And to get from one destination to another, everything must be organized and hopefully you have a contingency plan in place if something doesn't go according to schedule. That's why it's cool that Cheapflights.com has a Free “Parents Guide to Kids Flying Solo”, which provides valuable information for parents who have kids flying solo.

And things can go wrong. Just last month two girls were sent on wrong flights - one was 10 and the other was 8. The 10-year-old Boston girl was accidentally sent on a flight to Newark instead of Cleveland, and the 8-year-old-girl heading from Texas to Charlotte, N.C. ended up in Fayetteville, Ark. And no only do you have to worry about wrong flights, but there is also interaction with strangers, eating, helping anxiety and more.

Plus, now thanks to airline security, often only ticketed children are allowed past security, creating more questions than answers for parents with children flying alone this summer. The “Parents Guide to Kids Flying Solo” from travel experts at Cheapflights.com have an easy-reference chart including 12 major airlines and policies for unaccompanied minors including age restrictions, escort services and flight time limitations to help answer many of those questions.

This new guide highlights a bevy of tips including what to pack, do’s and don’ts before the flight and at the airport, as well as a chart highlighting specifics for each airline: age limitations, associated fees and important restrictions.

In addition to each airline’s specific rules and restrictions, topics to keep in mind include:

What to pack

· Cell phone: If your child doesn’t have one, consider a pay-as-you-go phone so they have an easy form of communication for emergencies and check-ins. Make sure your child knows how to place a collect call and provide a calling card as a backup.

· Entertainment. Make or buy a travel pack to keep them entertained while in flight. Include things such as coloring books, crayons, books, Play-Doh, handheld video games, etc.

· Photographs and medication: Provide a picture of the person(s) your child will be meeting at the arrival airport, and write out the person’s complete contact information on the back. Also, make sure your child has all medications they need and are comfortable taking it themselves.


Do’s and Don’ts

Before the flight:

· Educate yourself. Before making a reservation, contact your preferred carrier for specific information regarding children traveling alone.

· Be smart. Make sure your child doesn’t wear clothing that has their name on it, making it easier for a stranger to convince them that they can be trusted.


At the airport:

· Arrive early. Unaccompanied minors are usually pre-boarded, so airlines recommend allowing at least 90 minutes to check in and clear security. A relaxed pace will also be less stressful for your child.

· Speak up. Make sure flight attendants know that your child is traveling alone. Confirm that he or she will be seated in an area that’s convenient for them to keep an eye out; the very front or very back of the aircraft is ideal.


You can visit www.cheapflights.com to download or print a complete copy of the “Parent’s Guide to Kids Flying Solo.”


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Sunday, July 12, 2009

Hot Picks from Haute Moms

What are the hot picks from moms like you? Well, check out these reviews from 6 haute mamas and make sure you are on top of that latest and greatest discoveries for you and the kids! Each month, we will be bringing you some bloggy picks that you do not want to miss! Check out the July edition below:



Do you have a post that's buzzworthy? Leave a link to a great post, review or giveaway!






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This is solely the opinion of the Mom Buzz. Other people may have different experiences with the product. And don't forget to enter my other hot contests so you can win and try buzzworthy products!

Sunday, June 28, 2009

IN PRAISE OF STAY-AT-HOME MOMS

Have you heard about a new book called In Praise of Stay-At-Home Moms by Dr. Laura Schlessinger? It was just released recently and it sounds great.

Whenever I tell people I am a Stay-at-Home-Mom, I feel a little "silly". Like all I do is sit, eat and play. No value to society. Not bringing in any dough. Truthfully I left a good job to became a SAHM, and I know I made the right choice. My kids are awesome, well-behaved, smart, etc. I socialize them and know they are safe. So why should I feel guilty for making a decision to raise them day and night? Because, without a doubt, there is still a stigma in society that SAHMs are not up to par with working moms.

That's where In Praise of Stay-At-Home Moms comes in.

Dr. Laura Schlessinger’s latest book, IN PRAISE OF STAY-AT-HOME MOMS, builds on principles developed during her long career as a licensed marriage and family therapist and provides a wealth of advice and support, as well as compassion and inspiration, to women as they navigate the wonders and struggles of being stay-at-home moms.

If this sounds like something you would like to read, you can learn more at Harper Collins.

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Saturday, June 27, 2009

Bundled in Hope

My son has a favorite blanket. I feel guilty when I have to wash it, taking it away from him. It is small, minky and blue. And he loves it. I know he is not the only one with a "blankie". In fact, there has even been research done that shows that a favorite blanket can be a comforting and soothing transitional object.

To help ensure the 2.6 million infants and toddlers living in poverty receive the love and security of a blanket, Toys“R”Us, Inc. has launched a new philanthropic campaign in partnership with Save the Children called Bundled in Hope. The Bundled in Hope campaign will help purchase blankets for babies in need in some of the most impoverished parts of the country, as well as provide support for Save the Children’s early childhood development programs here in the U.S. The nine-week in-store and online fundraising campaign will last through July 11. You can donate as little as one dollar in any Toys“R”Us or Babies “R”Us store and online at Toysrus.com/BundledinHope, and one hundred percent of the funds raised will benefit Save the Children.

In addition to the monetary donations collected through the Bundled in Hope campaign, TRU is also hosting an online auction, featuring blankets designed by celebrity moms, including Julianne Moore, Jennifer Garner, Isla Fisher and Kyra Sedgwick. The blankets will be auctioned through July 11 at Toysrus.com/BundledinHope and all winning bids will benefit Save the Children’s U.S. programs. The Kerri Walsh blanket (pictured) has to be my favorite.

Also new with the launch of the Bundled in Hope campaign, TRU has implemented a campaign journal called Wrap Session to keep you guys updated on the latest campaign news. Be sure to check it out.

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Sunday, June 21, 2009

Crazy Dog T-Shirts is on Facebook!

I am a Huge Fan of Crazy Dog Tees! That's why I am happy to share the buzz that you can now find them on Facebook! And to keep things CrAzY, they will be giving out several free tees each week and promo codes for discounts. There will also be trivia and stories about t-shirts. Here is the link, so be sure to check it out: Crazy Dog T-Shirts on Facebook


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Sunday, June 14, 2009

Become a Medela Mom Maven & Win!

Have you heard of the Medela Mom Mavens? Medela Mom Mavens is a group of mothers who serve as breastfeeding ambassadors, sharing their knowledge about the benefits of breastfeeding and offering breastfeeding advice to other moms. This is probably something I could have benefited from for the short time I breastfed both my boys!

By signing up to be a Medela Mom Maven, you can have a first look at Medela products, participate in contest opportunities, receive newsletters with expert advice and share your thoughts with Medela. You can join at MomMavens.com. Way Cool!

Speaking of Medela, the Mom Buzz is currently hosting a give-away for their new, Eco-Friendly drop-cup nursing camisole, which offers comfortable, stylish support when nursing or pumping discreetly in public. Learn more at the Mom Buzz! Contest Ends June 25th.


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Friday, June 12, 2009

Fortune Girls Web Site

There’s a new website for tween girls called Fortune Girls, and it features a game for tweens with dreams…So Ya Wanna Be in Fashion! In the game, tweens can try their hand at being fashion and business divas. Girls choose clothes, select fabrics, market and sell the clothes they’ve designed on a $100,000 budget. If their clothing line is successful and they make a profit of $400,000, they can see their designs in a fashion show.

Fortune Girls encourage tweens to take a break from thinking about what their body looks like, what other girls think or say, or what their clothes look like and instead focus on feeling good about themselves by discovering the different fun ways to make a difference in the world. These funky girls are “characters with a conscience” who promote beauty from within and motivate young girls to succeed in life and help others in their community. Fortune Girls also support their friends with empowering messages.

Another dimension to the Fortune Girls brand in the Fortune Girls Ambassadors Club. Through the FGA Club, members will be able to participate in monthly volunteer assignments and share their experiences through uploaded videos, stories, essays and photos on the Fortune Girls website.

While you’re on the site, check out these cool attractions:

· Wow-A-Torium. See interviews with celebrities and fashion professionals as well as Amy Poehler’s new show, Smart Girls at the Party!

· Fun Mini Games. You can play games like Sudoku and Magic Fortune.

· FG CafĂ©. In the care, read about Girls in the News and learn what other girls are doing to help their communities.

· E-Cards. Send a friend a funny e-card.

· Meet the FGs. Learn about each character’s story, hobbies and personality

Also, make sure you keep your eye out because new games will be coming out over the next few weeks! Can’t wait to see what the Fortune Girls come up with next!


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Sunday, June 7, 2009

Hot Picks from Haute Mamas


What are the hot picks from moms like you? Well, check out these reviews from 6 haute mamas and make sure you are on top of that latest and greatest discoveries for you and the kids!
Happy Buzzing!

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This is solely the opinion of the Mom Buzz. Other people may have different experiences with the product.

Sunday, May 24, 2009

Does Your Carseat have Side Impact Protection? Recar Signo Does.

Have you heard the buzz about Recaro carseats? Recaro is a seating expert. Not only do they specialize in Child Safety Seating, they also design motorsport seating! I felt that if they could design a seat that would assist in the safety of drivers going at immense speeds, imagine what they could do in regards to child safety!

The thing that sells me on Recaro carseats, like the Signo my son is sitting in, is the Side Impact Protection! Not all carseat have this. But the Recaro Signo has energy absorbing headwings and mid-section support, as well as structural support for their hip and thighs. That's great to know, since so many children are injured during a side impact collission. Plus, it just makes the seat more comfortable! When my son falls asleep, his head no longer slumps over! it helps him sit more appropriately, which looks more comfortable and safer in the event of a collission.

Recaro makes two convertible seats, as well as a toddler seat and boosters. The two convertible seats are the Como and Signo. So, what's the difference? Well, I love that the the Signo has an infinite adjustable headrest. The Como has 5 headrest and harness positions. And while both convertibles come with latch mini connectors, the Signo has an additional latch bar which makes the switch from rear to forward-facing easier.

If you would like to read more about my experience
with the Recaro Signo, please visit the Mom Buzz and read my complete review.

You can view a demo of the Recaro Signo here: Recaro Signo Demo.
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This is solely the opinion of the Mom Buzz. Other people may have different experiences with the product.Thank you RecaroKids.com for providing a seat to review.

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Panasonic Inverter Microwave

Is your microwave living up to it's true potential? Do you really ONLY want to use it to reheat food and burn make popcorn? Why bother wasting valuable kitchen space with it? If you want a microwave, I have disovered one that can handle the day-to-day needs of nourishing my family.

This microwave is something that can COOK meals, not just reheat them. Microwave, Bake and Broil - do it all! And I don't want overcooked edges and undercooked insides. I do want healthy meals. And it HAS to be easy to use!

Panasonic answered. First off, I trust the brand. My first Panasonic Microwave was over 20 years old when I had the opportunity to try the new Panasonic Inverter Microwave (NN-C994S). And I know I am not the only one with a Panasonic that old - and working. Second, the Panasonic Inverter Microwave that I received is also a Convection Oven! So while I am baking a rum cake in the Panasonic, I can simultaneously bake cupcakes in my other oven. It's so convenient. I can also cook WHOLE MEALS in minutes - getting only one dish dirty.

And the Microwave has a setting that talks you through how to use it, even if it does have a lot of buttons and knobs. It tells you which one to push next for that PERFECT MEAL.

It's so easy to use and I am so pleased with it. Plus, it has one IMPORTANT MUST-HAVE feature. It's stainless steel exterior is smudge-proof. I love that!

So learn more about the Panasonic at the Mom Buzz. And there is even an opportunity to WIN one of the fabulous microwave ovens!

Learn more and win!

WIN and READ a FULL REVIEW
- Contest Ends May 2nd

OF MOMS and MICROWAVES

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Sunday, April 5, 2009

Panasonic Thermopot

Coffee & Tea Lovers rejoice! Now you can have hot water at demand, thanks to the Panasonic Thermopot. This kitchen appliance rocks and has so many super uses. You almost wonder how you did without!

It keeps your water hot so you can recharge with caffeine, relax with tea and make some quick meals for breakfast and lunch at a moment's notice. It's also great for making warm bottles for baby!

Plus, it is safer than boiling water on the stove with a little curious toddler around your legs and it also means you won't forget that you were heating up water in the microwave - only to let it get cold again as you did a diaper change, cleaned up toys and throw a load in the washer.

Pretty much - it's a must-have for busy moms - which is EVERY MOM!

Learn more by visiting my in-depth review at theMomBuzz.

WIN:
There is a contest going on right now for a ThermoPot at theMomBuzz. Visit the review to enter: Anyone Can Boil Water.

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Sunday, March 29, 2009

Fuzion Electron Scooter



I remember when I was younger, I used to ride my scooter all the time. It was mostly plastic and not very sturdy - but it was fun. So when my nephew asked for a cool scooter, I was amazed at the options that were available. I was especially impressed by the Fuzion Electron with its cool green color and sleek design. It features a 360 rotation, so he can maneuver easily. Plus, it has an innovative folding mechanism and ultra-light, compact design so we can take the Electron anywhere with ease! The park, grandma's house, vacation and more!

I knew he wouldn't be the only one that would love it - I am sure many of you have boys and girls that would love to take a Fuzion Electron for a spin. It's available from many retailers, such as Toys R Us!

You can also win one from the Mom Buzz! The contest ends April 7th, so make sure you get your entries in now!

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Sunday, March 22, 2009

VTECH 3-HANDSET PHONE

Do you need a new phone? It seems like every mom I know owns a phone that is on the fritz. That's because we don't just need "another phone" in our house. We need a complete home communication system.

We need a phone that let's us complete all the tasks at hand, whether we are working mamas or SAHMs. And I have finally found the perfect phone that fits in my busy lifestyle. The VTech CS6129-31.

The VTech CS6129-31 comes with three handsets and a load of mom-loved features. It has amazing range, an Intercom feature, Digital Answering System, Caller ID, Speakerphone - on each handset, you only need one phone jack even with the three handsets it's Energy Star Qualified and loads more!

REVIEW AND WIN:
You can read a complete review at the Mom Buzz. And there is even an opportunity to win one! The Mom Buzz contest ends April 2nd.


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Sunday, March 15, 2009

Bumble Diaper Bag

I love diaper bags. So many different styles to accommodate your personal taste and needs. One that has caught my eye for months is the Buzz Bag from the Bumble Collection. It has some really unique features, such as
  • Backpack, Messenger, Stroller Bag in Exclusive Bee Quilt with lining in Exclusive Print
  • Water and Stain Resistant and Machine Washable
  • Snack Bag Included
  • Removable Shoulder Strap, Pop Out Backpack Straps and Stroller Straps Included
  • Detachable Fold Out Changing Pad
  • Top Zipper Pocket for Easy Access to Personal Items
  • Optional 45 degree opening using featured Side Zippers
  • Multiple Zipper and Elastic Pockets for Added Storage Space
Be sure to check out the entire collection of bags at the Bumble Collection.

Win:
You can win a Buzz Bag from the Mom Buzz right now. Contest ends March 24th.


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Sunday, March 8, 2009

MallyBibs: Stylish, Leather Bibs

I hate cloth bibs. They get ugly and stained after one use, it seems. I used plastic ones, but they are almost ALWAYS made in China. So then I have to keep an ear and eye out for recalls. But, there is another option. MallyBibs. These are leather bibs made in Canada! If something falls on the leather, just wipe it off! No stains! And there are so many other cool things about owning one.

1. It is reversible, with a catch pocket on the other side
2. They are so stylish that it is even okay for toddlers and preschoolers to wear
3. It is magnetized so you can hang it on your fridge
4. You can easily adjust the magnets in the tabs so that it can fit the chubbiest or tiniest of babies!

Honesty, no other bib compares! This is totally a favorite of the Mom Buzz!

Win:
You can WIN a MallyBib from the Mom Buzz. Simply head on over to the review post and follow the contest entry requirements!
Contest ends March 17th.

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Sunday, March 1, 2009

BabyMel X2 Diaper Bag

I found that it can be hard choosing the perfect diaper bag that fits you and your child. When you have your second child, it seems to get even harder. That's why I am so glad to share with you the BabyMel X2! It is this AWESOME 2-in-1 diaper bag. Put items for child #1 in one bag. Put items for child #2 in the second bag. Carry them both with one shoulder strap. If your hubby takes Child #1 on a fun trip, while you take Child #2 in a different direction - just separate the bags and go on your merry way. The bags come with an extra Shoulder Strap (with built in stroller strap) just for circumstances like this.

Both bags have wipe-clean liners inside, to easily clean up spills. They come with a changing pad and have an insulated side pocket to hold sippies or bottles! Plus, they come in a gorgeous selection of sleek colors. Red/Black (my favorite), Black/Black and Sand/Black.

Win:
Currently, there is an opportunity to win a BabyMel X2 in Red/Black. To enter, visit the Mom Buzz. This contest ends March 7th, 2009.

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Sunday, February 15, 2009

Swank Martini

The Mom Buzz loves martinis. Dirty, chocolate, fruity or sweet. They are all classy, chic, delicious and swank. Now, when I share them with friends I like to serve them the way a martini deserves to be served - in a Swank Martini glass. Honestly, they are the perfect bridesmaid gift!

The choices are immense, as you look at glasses with curves, details, simplicity or a dash of color.

Win:
Right now, one lucky Buzz reader can take home the Omega 4-glass set from Swank Martini. There will be 4 main entries throughout the month of February - and each time you participate you increase your chance of taking home this GORGEOUS set. You enter every Friday during Happy Hour, which is around 3pm.

First Entry: Swank Martini Entry 1

Contest Ends February 28th!
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Sunday, February 1, 2009

Goody Green Bag

I love reusable totes. It's like an addiction. No more paper and plastic for me! Uh - uh, no way! But all the totes I bought when they first came out are HUMONGOUS and kind of unattractive. I will not stand for huge, ugly reusable totes any longer! For I have discovered GOODY GREEN BAG! Oh my goodness! They fold to the size of an ENVELOPE! So I can easily carry it in my diaper bag or keep it in my car. Plus, they are so PRETTY! Cherries, dots, squares, circles, hearts and, my personal favorite, Bad to the Bone.

Plus, the Goody Green Bag site has loads of eco-friendly tips that you can easily adopt to help make your living style more green!

DISCOUNT
Everyone - you can all get a 15% FRIENDS & FAMILY DISCOUNT by ordering through this link: WWW.GOODYGREENBAG.COM/ORDER/SPECIAL
Good through 1/31/09.

Win It:

The Mom Buzz is now hosting a contest where you can WIN a Goody Green Bag of your choice! Contest Ends 2/04 so enter now!

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