For those shopping trips that just require the picking up of just three or four things, doing it with kids in tow can make it a lot more stressful. I know I’m fastidious about having my children hold my hand both in the parking lot and inside a store. But what do you do when you need to use one or both of your hands to shop? Sometimes you feel like you need more than two hands!

Let me introduce you to a novel product by Reisenthel: The Mother-Child Tote shopping bag!

Reisenthel, a German company, is one of the the top manufacturers of reusable bags, especially in Europe. They pride themselves on outstanding and thoughtful design, outputting bags truly “with purpose.”

The Reisenthel Mother-Child shopping tote is such a bag. It’s constructed of durable, tear-proof polyester, handles long enough for shoulder carrying(plus shorter handles for hand carrying), attractive grommets which can doubly serve as places to hang a key-ring clip, an eye-catching and bold print, interior pockets for a cell phone and other doo-dads, plus the feature that makes it what it is: The separate stitched handle at your child’s height, so you can keep them close to you while keeping your hands free when you need them to be!

The Reisenthel Mother-Child tote is of substantial size, measuring in at approximately 17×17x9″, and comes in four colors: Sand, red, navy and kiwi!

What a wonderful gift this would be — or just a must-have for your weekly shopping excursions with the kids. You can find this bag, along with other Reisenthel totes and baskets, at Touch of Europe and Amazon.com…or use the handy store/retailer locator on their site to find another shop near you carrying their fine products.

FTC info — Disclaimer: A gigantic thank-you to Reisenthel for providing a Mother-Child shopping tote for our review! No other monetary or product compensation was received. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

There’s an Etsy shop with a little bit of everything for everyone! I’m super excited to introduce you today to Little Birds Boutique.

This shop’s owner, Fran, lovingly and intricately sews a dazzling variety of items for so many interests, so many uses! Take a look at some of Little Birds Boutique’s offerings:

Reversible Pinafores for tots

Kid’s Play TeePees/Tent Hideaways

Eco-Friendly Reusable Banners

This is just a small, small sampling of the other adorable things Little Birds Boutique carries. I’ve ordered from this shop recently and was SUPER impressed with the craftsmanship and impeccable detail of my ordered items….not to mention with Fran’s customer service and hospitality.

From luxuriously soft baby blankets to cute as a button felt & ribbon hairclips to fashionable dog bandanas, this shop has something for everyone. (And all made with gorgeous and happening prints and patterns.)

Let Little Birds Boutique be your one-stop-shop for the next few gift-giving occasions on your list!

Win it! Little Birds Boutique has very generously offered prizes to Muse Reviews’ readers! One of you will win your choice of a set of reusable snack/sandwich bags (just in time for back-to-school!) OR your choice of a wristlet!

Here’s how to enter:

1. MANDATORY: Tell me, in a comment below, another item at Little Birds Boutique you LOVE. Also, in the same comment, tell me which of the above two items you’d pick if you win, and in what print/pattern.

2) For a second entry, subscribe to Muse Reviews’ feed OR subscribe via email — tell me in a separate comment if you’re a new subscriber or already a subscriber.

3) For a third entry, become friends with Muse Reviews on Facebook, then tell me you did so in a separate comment below.

4) For a fourth entry, twitter about this contest using @MuseReviews within your tweet, then tell me in a separate comment that you twittered! (Only one tweet per person per contest, please.)

5) BONUS! For a fifth entry, become a fan of Little Birds Boutique on Facebook, and let me know that you did in a separate comment below.

I’ll close the contest next Thursday, August 19th, 2010 at 11pm EST. Sorry; US mailing addresses only. Good luck!


CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED.

#16, Snowflake07 (Audra) has won the snack bag set, and
#33, Jenn S has won the key fob/wristlet!

FTC info — Disclaimer: I received no product or monetary compensation for this review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

CafePress is renowned for their super-huge variety of personalized and printed apparel, bags, accessories, mugs, and more — for almost any theme or enthusiast!

Did you realize that CafePress has over 900,000 Twilight-themed items?

Whether you’re “Team Jacob,” “Team Edward,” or just a wholehearted, well-rounded fan of Twilight books and movies in general, CafePress has something for you!

Take a look at a small sample of CafePress’s Twilight merchandise:

There are many, many, many more Twilight-themed products on CafePress. You can choose one of the fan-designed items already there — or design and/or personalize your very own custom item! The possibilities are endless.

Win it! Thanks to CafePress, FIVE of you will win this “I’m the One with the Wicked Curveball” duffle bag!

This duffle, at $16.50, is perfect for ball practice, gym class, or heading to yoga. It’s large enough to store all of your essential gear — and sends a Twilight-themed message you’ll love!

Here’s how to enter:

1) MANDATORY: Take a look at CafePress’s other Twilight-themed merchandise. There’s a ton to choose from — believe me! Tell me, in a comment below, another item you’d love to have.

2) For a second entry, subscribe to Muse Reviews’ feed OR subscribe via email — tell me in a separate comment if you’re a new subscriber or already a subscriber.

3) For a third entry, become friends with Muse Reviews on Facebook, then tell me you did so in a separate comment below.

4) For a fourth entry, twitter about this contest using @MuseReviews within your tweet, then tell me in a separate comment that you twittered!

I’ll close the contest next Monday, July 19th, 2010 at 11pm EST. Sorry; US addresses only. Good luck!

CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED.

#39, Birdie S
#45, Ron-Michael
#58, Felicity
#82, Tiffany Pettey
#86, Victoria

FTC info — Disclaimer: I received this product for free from CafePress (via Solstice Communications) for review purposes; however, my review was honest and my opinions are my own. I only received the product itself; I received no other monetary compensation for this review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Another winning book from bestselling children’s book author Amy Krouse Rosenthal!

The Wonder Book is a collection of story-like poems much in the style of Shel Silverstein. It’s fun, it’s funny, it’s funtastic.

The first time we opened this book, I intended on reading just one of the poems to my kids before bedtime. Well, one turned into two, and two turned into three…..and the giggles erupting from the two of them persuaded me to read the whole book!

There are re-written nursery rhymes with a comedic slant. There are ponderings out of the minds of cartoonish children (“If oranges are orange, I wonder why apples aren’t called reds?”). There’s an introduction to the lesser-known friends of Miss Mary Mack. There’s a sneaky poem all about the Maternal Bureau of Investigation, which explains why stealing a cookie from the cookie jar always results in getting caught.

There are play on words galore, limerick-y lists, and quirky vocabulary tales. The simple black-and-white cartoon illustrations by Paul Schmid are just the right accompaniment to this book of riddle and rhyme. It’s a great book to pick up and read start to finish, as well as enjoy a piece at a time, every other day.

You can purchase The Wonder Book for $17.99 from HarperCollins.com, or look for it at your favorite local bookstore.

Win it! Courtesy of HarperCollins, one of you will win a copy of The Wonder Book by Amy Krouse Rosenthal!

Here’s how to enter:

1) MANDATORY: Tell me, in a comment below, another HarperCollins title you’d love to read. (If you can pick just one.)
2) For an extra entry, subscribe to Muse Reviews’ feed OR subscribe via email — tell me in a separate comment if you’re a new subscriber or already a subscriber.
3) For a third entry, become friends with Muse Reviews on Facebook, then tell me you did so in a separate comment below.
4) For a fourth entry, twitter about this contest using @MuseReviews within your tweet, then tell me in a separate comment that you twittered!

I’ll close the contest next Wednesday, April 21st, 2010 at 11pm EST. Sorry; US addresses only. Good luck!


CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED.

Congratulations to the winner, #43, Dana!

FTC info — Disclaimer: I received this product for free for review purposes; however, my review was honest and my opinions are my own. I only received the product itself; I received no other monetary compensation for this review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

There’s a “secret” spring sale going on at Eleven Collection!

All of you loyal Muse Reviews readers and followers can get 20% off your purchase of shoes from Eleven Collection by entering in the promo code musesofmegret20 at checkout!

Click here to visit their online shop. HURRY! Coupon expires Friday, April 16th, 2010!

Happy shopping!

Trees are blooming, birds are singing, and spring styles are sprouting. Eleven Collection’s spring lineup for 2010 is, I believe, their most spring-inspired so far….bright, colorful designs that are sure to appeal to any little feet!

The lovely colors and the precious new designs….take a look at what’s hatched this year:

Eleven Collection sent G the Eli sandal in navy to try out. With warm weather peeking out, they’ve been on his feet constantly. Supreme comfort, extreme durability — just as we’ve always come to expect (and appreciate) from Eleven Collection.

Eleven Collection shoes boast a wealth of positive attributes:

Comfortable Fit:
Flexible soles designed for growing, active kids
Premium, soft leather ensures comfort and breathability
Cushioned insole makes each step a comfortable one
Easy on and off, with padded collars for a sensational, secure fit
Premium Construction:
All premium materials and construction
All leather uppers
Durable and sturdy soles with superior traction

….all the while being stylish and fashion-forward….making them all you’d want/need in a children’s shoe….”the complete package.”

Eleven’s shoes are available in whole sizes 9-3, perfect for toddlers through early school age kids (ages 3-8). (View their sizing chart here.) Eleven Collection’s spring shoes are available via their online store or at these fine retailers.

Win it! Thanks to the kind folks at Eleven Collection, one of you will win a pair of Eleven Collection shoes for your “little traveler!”

Here’s how to enter:

1. MANDATORY: Visit Eleven Collection and tell me which style (or styles) from their Spring/Summer 2010 collection you like the best.
2) For an extra entry, subscribe to Muse Reviews’ feed — tell me in a separate comment if you’re a new subscriber or already a subscriber.
3) For a third entry, become friends with Muse Reviews on Facebook, then tell me you did so in a separate comment below.
4) For a fourth entry, twitter about this contest using @MuseReviews within your tweet, then tell me in a separate comment that you twittered!

I’ll close the contest next Tuesday, March 30th, 2010 at 11pm EST. US and Canadian addresses/entries only. Good luck!

CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED.

Congrats to our winner, #150, Alison!

FTC info — Disclaimer: I received this product for free for review purposes; however, my review was honest and my opinions are my own. I only received the product itself; I received no other monetary compensation for this review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

There’s just something about wearing your children’s names. Heirloom, family-inspired jewelry is like not much else in this world…and I believe that the most perfect, the most wonderful shop in all of everywhere to find and purchase hand-crafted, sentimental jewelry to make any mother’s heart swoon is The Vintage Pearl.

My sweet husband gifted me on Christmas Day with the Dainty Drops necklace from The Vintage Pearl’s stunning collection. It’s a necklace that I rarely take off….I find myself reaching for it around my neck ten million times a day. To have our childrens’ names stamped onto something that I can wear that close to my heart….with their beautiful birthstones suspended above….

Words cannot express the sentiments I have about motherhood…and it’s here, tangible, crafted so perfectly into a wearable work of art.

The array of gorgeous designs and pieces at The Vintage Pearl is remarkable:

You can order a custom necklace, bracelet, spoon, or other gifts via The Vintage Spoon’s online store (or via their Etsy shop). Prices start at $18. What wonderful Mother’s Day gifts, birthday gifts, or “just because” gifts!

Win it! Thanks to The Vintage Pearl, one of you will win a $25 gift certificate toward anything in The Vintage Pearl’s shop!

Here’s what you need to do to enter to win:

1) MANDATORY: Comment below with what piece you’d order from The Vintage Pearl if you won!
2) For an extra entry, subscribe to Muse Reviews’ feed — tell me in a separate comment if you’re a new subscriber or already a subscriber
3) For a third entry, become friends with Muse Reviews on Facebook, then tell me you did so in a separate comment below!
4) For a fourth entry, twitter about this contest using @MuseReviews within your tweet, then tell me in a separate comment that you twittered!

I’ll close this contest next Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010 at 11pm EST. Sorry; US entries only. Good luck!

CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED.

Congrats to Emily Irwin, commenter #54, the winner of the $25 gift certificate!

FTC info — Disclaimer: I received no products or monetary compensation for this review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Though there are only a few shopping days left before Christmas, don’t panic! The wide assortment of jewelry from Sears can help you mark off almost every name on your list!

Sears debuts its Holiday Jewelry Catalog for online browsing: Click here to flip through the glitzy, glamorous pages full of glittering gifts galore!

Here’s just a sneak peek at what Sears Jewelry is showcasing for the 2009 holiday season:

Ruby & Diamond Necklace, Ring, and Earring Set (regularly $199.99, sale $79.99)
Diamond Mystique Platinum over Sterling Silver Hoop and Heart Pendant Set (regularly $119.99, sale $59.99)
(These and the other items shown can be found in the jewelry catalog on page 2)

1/4 ct. t.w.* Round and Baguette Diamond Ring in 18K Gold over Sterling Silver (regular $159.99, sale $79.99)
1/2 ct. t.w.* Diamond Chevron Necklace in 14K Gold over Sterling Silver (regular $259.99, sale $129.99)
1/2 ct. t.w.* Diamond and X-Link Bracelet in14K Gold over Sterling Silver (regular $259.99, sale $129.99)

1/10 ct. t.w.* Diamond Cross Pendant in 14K Gold & Sterling Silver (regular $199.99, sale $99.99)
1/10 ct. t.w. Black Diamond Cat Pendant in 14K Gold over Sterling Silver (regular $199.99, sale $99.99)
1/10 ct. t.w.* Diamond Eiffel Tower Pendant in 14K Gold & Sterling Silver (regular $199.99, sale $99.99)

Browse the Sears Holiday Jewelry Catalog for much more (watches included!)…then head over to your local Sears (or Sears.com) to pick up your finds: Gifts for Mom, Grandmom, daughter, sister, friend, brother, and Dad.

When I hear about companies that are begun for good reason and for a good cause, I love to spread the news. Bee well wishes is one such company!

It was “born” after Tina Chadwick safely brought her baby into this world, only to immediately undergo surgery to remove a brain tumor. Well-meaning people sent flowers and food, but her husband was allergic to flowers and the food went to waste while she was still on a feeding tube. The only truly useful gift was a pair of pajamas sent to Tina by a dear friend. She began to think about other similar gift ideas that would be well-received during difficult, uncertain times….and bee well wishes was the product of her ideas. (You can read Tina’s entire story here.)

Bee well wishes has a wide assortment of timely, useful, thoughtful gifts that will last well beyond an illness, injury recovery, or hospital stay.

Bee well wishes sent over one of their BIG, BIG bee sleep shirts to try out. Super, super soft, roomy, and comfy….extraordinary quality (and cute bee graphic)! It is made out of 100% ring spun, fine jersey combed 5oz. cotton with contrast bee well brown stitching. Their signature cotton tab label is on the outside at upper neck, for comfort while reclining or sleeping!

Bee well wishes also carries:

• Onesies
• Blankets
• Pillowcases
• Lounge pants

and many more adorable bee well items. The brilliant motto of bee well wishes fits its mission well: “What to send when you don’t know what to do.”

**Here’s a heartwarming way a customer out of Atlanta, GA, used a bee well wishes pillowcase: (Atlanta, GA, December 2009) This holiday season will not be an easy one for Ronnie Salinas. In early November, her son Conrad III was deployed to Afghanistan, and on December 12th her husband Conrad heads to Iraq. So with the heart of a loving mother, Ronnie found a way to send her son a tangible connection to home- one that captures the thoughts of all of his loved ones. “On Thanksgiving I had our family each write a little message on a (bee well wishes) pillowcase in permanent ink,” says Ronnie. “…so that he could go to sleep each night with the love of his family right under his head.”

Everything you order from bee well wishes is sent in a bright yellow, cheery, sturdy box and is wrapped so well inside….really makes a statement. No matter what’s going on, you can rest assured that any gift sent from bee well wishes will be well received and appreciated.

Win it! Thanks to bee well wishes, TWO of you will each win a BIG, BIG bee t-shirt! For a chance to win, just comment below with another one of bee well wishes’ items you’d love to send to someone. I’ll close the contest next Tuesday, December 22nd, 2009 at 11pm EST. Sorry; US entries only. Good luck!

CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED.

Congrats to the winners of the t-shirt, commenters:
#5 – Danielle G
and
#18 – Lisa!

Eleven Collection’s fall 2009 selections are simply irresistible. There’s something for every style, every color preference.

And what hasn’t changed is Eleven Collection’s commitment to superior workmanship, quality, and durability. They are flexible yet rugged to uphold the adventures of any little travelers!

Take a look at the super styles for this cool-weather season:

Finn

Helena

My little one is enjoying her Miras! I love how they will go with so many outfits, and will look great with casual playclothes as well as dresses.

My children consistently remark about the comfort of their shoes’ interiors. And I can’t help but notice how easy-on and easy-off they are — a big plus with all the running in and out we do!

These shoes are priced just right seeing that they hold up well to being passed down to younger ones once they’re outgrown. The quality we’ve come to know in Eleven Collection shoes will ensure that you will most likely experience what we have: Your children will probably grow out of these shoes before they ever wear them out!

You can buy Eleven Collection’s fine shoes directly from their online store or at a variety of local retailers.

Win it! Thanks to the kind people at Eleven Collection, one of you can win your choice of a pair of shoes from their 2009 Fall line! Just tell me, in a comment below, the style you like best (and in what size). I’ll close the contest next Tuesday, October 27th, 2009 at 11pm EST. Sorry; US entries only. Good luck!

CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED.

Congratulations to #36, Erin Evans, the winner of the pair of Eleven Collection shoes!