Stay Fashionable During Pregnancy With Belly Dance Maternity & GIVEAWAY!

Four years ago when I found out I was pregnant with Toodie I promised myself that I wouldn't be the "frumpy" mom. Being in my early 20's I didn't think that being pregnant meant I had to lose my fashion sense and live in sweatpants. Although there are many days in which sweatpants, a pony tail, and mis-matched socks were completely okay. Trust me, I enjoyed the lazy days thoroughly! But being a girly girl and lover of fashion, I always made sure to at least look put together when I was out. When your pregnant the insecurities you have seem to creep up on you a little bit more. I think there are a few common phrases that I have said and heard from pregnant woman in general. "My ankles are swollen." "I look fat in this." "My hips are HUGE." "I'm carrying a watermelon!" "UGH this looks awful on me." Regardless of our beautiful child bearing glow, we still find something to pick apart! During this time of self critique, there is one thing that makes us feel like a "normal person" again. What is that? Dressing cute, accessorizing, and struttin' our stuff. Yeah, we are moms and we are carrying around another person for 9 months. But can't we do that and still be fashionable?  Belly Dance Maternity makes this possible!


In 2002 Belly Dance Maternity opened it's doors in Chicago and began to pioneer in the newly chic maternity market. Creating trends before and after pregnancy, they knew that expecting moms didn't want to sacrifice their style. They offered an assortment of prices, brands, and exclusive pieces. A year later they expanded and even launched their online store. Around this time, Belly Dance Maternity acquired NOM(Naissance Maternity), which is a cutting edge L.A. based maternity fashion line. In addition to NOM the others brands offered include Paige Premium Denim, Juicy Maternity, Liz Lange, Michael Stars, and many more. Today Belly Dance Maternity is committed to celebrating maternity through trendy, wearable, and practical designs.

When I was contacted to review an item from Belly Dance Maternity I wasn't sure if I was going to be the perfect match considering I am not pregnant or expecting! But I was quickly assured that many of the items they offer can actually be worn during and AFTER pregnancy. The clothing is versatile and most tops can be paired with leggings or jeans just like any other blouses. For example, the tank tops and tunics are perfect for that effortless put together look that most moms seek. I was sent the Tie Dye Wesley Tank by NOM in a charcoal gray and white tie dye pattern. This top is extremely comfortable! The material is not only soft but it is also stretchy. It is fitted on the top while the bottom is more loose and flowy. It looks great with a pair of black leggings or skinny jeggings. I can see how it could be worn during your pregnancy and also post-partum. It doesn't scream "pregnancy" like most traditional maternity tops do. If you view the NOM line in general, you will notice that none of their pieces fall into that category. Everything is spot on when it comes to colors, trends, and what woman are looking for. It's refreshing to see a company that offers trendy maternity clothing because when I was pregnant I had the hardest time finding tops that were fun and youthful. 

Young At Heart Mommy readers have the opportunity to win a piece of clothing from the NOM clothing line at Belly Dance Maternity! If you would like to enter, please use the rafflecopter form below. Also, stop by Belly Dance Maternity and browse their huge variety of merchandise. They aren't limited to clothing! You can find swimwear, cosmetics, skincare, and even baby items on their site also. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway  

Disclosure: I received a piece of clothing from the NOM maternity line courtesy of Belly Dance Maternity. This post will not be compensated and all opinions are my own!

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Exploring Creativity With WowWee ArtSee Studio For The iPad!

At four years old Toodie has mastered using my iPad to play games, listen to music, browse YouTube, take photos, and spontaneously tweet random things to my followers. This usually includes a jumble of letters and funny emojis but she calls this "tweeting like mommy." Each day I am amazed at how intelligent and savvy she is with technology around us. Thankfully there are apps and software to feed this curiosity and also educate simultaneously. One of her favorite gadgets to use is of course my ever so popular iPad. It's light, portable, and just plain fun because of the innovative touch screen. It offers a different play experience compared to a PC or handheld console.

I recently discovered an interactive app and and tool that integrates the iPad with hours of entertaining activities for children. WowWee's ArtSee Studio encourages drawing, animation, art, and imagination through an interactive journey. Your child can create pictures from a blank canvas, color pre-drawn characters, paint from a pallete of vibrant colors, and even learn through educational activities. To get started all you need is the ArtSee Studio protective case, your tablet, and the FREE app. Download the app from the iTunes store and slide in your iPad to secure it in place. It is compatible with iPad generations 1,2,3 & 4. While the ArtSee Studio app can be used without the case, options are limited and you need the attached stamps for most activities.

Toodie has always enjoyed doing anything artys and creative. This app completely sucked her in and sent her into a whimsical world of imagination, which I loved! She took her time browsing through the activities and kept coming back to those she favored. She practiced symmetry, matching, sound, and memory through a variety of games. These included Connect The Dots, Odd One Out, Association, Melodee and Symmetry. Each teaching a different skill while making it fun and easy to understand. In addition to the five stamps, there is a pen stylus perfect for tiny hands. The pen snaps right into the case just as the other pieces do. This makes it easy to carry around to restaurants or in the car without having to  worry about losing any loose pieces along the way. It's going to be a life saver on our next long drive to Disney World!

All of your child's saved artwork is safely stored in the "collection" tab within the Artsee Studio app. This makes holding on to their unique creations easy. It also allows them to go back and view what they have made later on. Toodie enjoyed showcasing her drawings and scrolling through her pictures days later. At any time she could go back and add personality, sound, and actions!

 

FEATURES INCLUDED: 
 
Over 75 animated stamp variations
15 roller patterns
3 built-in theme packs
60 challenging activities in 5 unique games
Over 15 coloring pages
Multi-functional stylus
5 interactive tools
Easy-Grip Handle
Protective Case
Made for iPad® (1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th Generation

The case itself is a nice size and because it is flat, it rests easily on the lap. The back even has a flip out stand so it can sit up on a table! Toodie used it resting on her knees. Normally when she plays with the iPad I have to put a pillow underneath because there is nothing to hold it in place. This is a small feature that many may look over but it is SO helpful!

On the bottom of the Artsee Studio interface there is a prompt to access the Parent Menu. By holding two fingers down onto the strip of symbols, you will be presented with further options. Here you can save your child's artwork, print, or share within your social media channels. You can also purchase additional theme packages including "Fairy Tales." Import your own photos for your child to play with or make changes to the difficulty scale. ArtSee Studio can be played on a Junior or Advanced option to grow with your child. As a mom of an intelligent toddler, I prefer that she work on stimulating activities that will challenge her as she grows. Once she masters the Junior level, I can raise the bar to Advanced and watch her learn! It's also nice that parents still have control over the application and can make these alternations at any time.

If interested in further information on the ArtSee Studio you can visit their website. Here you can get a closer look at the individual features and take a step forward in expanding your child's imagination! Connect with the brand on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest for updates and other reviews from parents like myself. You even have a chance to win one of your own if you pay close attention on Twitter. They frequently have RT contests in which a lucky winner receives their very own ArtSee Studio!

Disclosure: I was provided with an Artsee Studio to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own and I will not be compensated!
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HOT Summer Trends At The Children's PLACE! #PLACESummer

Summer FUN has just begun! The previous school year will be ending shortly and a new season will be upon us. It's time for splashing in the pool, walking sandy beaches, long days full of sunshine, ice cold popsicles, and breaking out the flip flop collection! I love this time of year because it brings about so many activities and sweet fashions for children. With the help of The Children's PLACE I had the opportunity to extend Toodie's wardrobe and add in a pop of color for the Summer. 

I was so happy to see new sparkly jelly sandals and flip flops in Toodie's size. Every time I purchase shoes at The Children's PLACE, they last forever and really hold up for quite some time. They also had so many bright colors that would match with every clothing item in the store. I picked out the clear pair with the chunky glitter because I knew they could be worn with anything and everything I purchased. One piece and two piece swimsuits are back. All the swimsuits are lined with rash guards and UPF 50 protection to make swim time worry free and comfortable for boys and girls. There are tons of frill, beachy patterns, and foil prints to give each suit personality.

This was also prime time to stock up on some of their graphic shirts and solid shorts. They were on sale for $5! Whether you prefer flowers or flourescent halter tops, you can once again mix and match for variety. For toddlers there were also flowy dresses and sassy rompers. Loving the funky Summer styles. They really hit the nail on the head when it comes to what's "HOT." Living in South Florida can be extremely warm these next few months so I appreciate the light loose material for all ages. 

Within the little girl's section I came across an assortment of embellished tops and layered skirts. Many of them were bright colored and could be mix and matched with one another to create different outfits. I love the length on the skirts because if your daughter is tall like mine, the longer the better. You don't have to worry about these shrinking up or losing inches after a few washes. Most skirts I found within the store also had shorts built in. This "fresh" collection features mixed patterns, designs, and frills. These duos are perfect for days of play in the sunshine.
 

For the boys, big and small, you can find sporty graphic t-shirts paired with bright colored board shorts lined with mesh. They also have stylish long sleeve polos available in solids and vibrant stripes. Let's not forget the footwear this time around. I spotted cute patterned flip flops that will be perfect for the beach or a day at the pool.
 

The Children's PLACE offers really great sales and deals in store and online on a weekly basis. But did you know that you can use a coupon in addition to their current promotion? By joining their email list you will receive frequent emails containing coupons and updates. You can also get on the mailing list to get them sent to your home. Either way, print them out and save even more money on clothing for your little one! I was able to get everything below for less than $100. This includes clothing, shoes, and accessories to prepare for the Summer time! I STILL can't get over how adorable the floral jean shorts and matching tops are. They are definitely my favorite finds from this season's shopping trip.

Get social and connect with The Children's PLACE on Twitter and Facebook.  Want more? Head on over and view all of their fun Summer looks in their Summer Lookbook here.

Disclosure: I was provided with a gift card to shop the Summer Styles at the Children's PLACE. All opinions are my own!

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Indulging Your Four Legged Friend: Bugsy's Box REVIEW!

The month of April is finally finished and I couldn't be happier to see the first day of May. With my schedule being so hectic this past month, I haven't had the time to pamper my four legged friends like normal. A monthly package of pooch friendly surprises arrived on my doorstep just in time. After finding pairs of socks and underwear in the dog beds, I knew we were in desperate need of some exciting new treats or toys. I recently discovered another monthly subscription program geared towards man's best friend, Bugsy's Box! The first thing I noticed about this service was their adorable little mascot, three year old Bugsy. He is a pug just like my little Chloe Marie and boy is he cute. 

So what exactly is in this Bugsy's Box? Each Bugsy's Box includes 5 to 7 items which are a variety of high quality, hand picked, well reviewed dog treats, toys, care items, healthy supplements, accessories and more surprises such as coupons which are often included as a bonus. For $29 each month, an owner can purchase a box catered towards their friend. Each item within the box will be size appropriate for your dog. Once I opened my box I revealed a collection of treats and toys that both of my dogs could enjoy, even though they are complete opposites. One is big, one is little. They are constantly fighting over toys and most of the time Sam is trying to steal Chloe's smaller toys. With that being said, I was relieved to see things that they could both have separately.

This month's box contained six different items that I had never heard of or tried. That's the wonderful thing about these subscription programs for not only the pet but the owners as well. They introduce you to new pet friendly products but also allow you to try them before you buy them. If you find something your pet really enjoys, you can go purchase it again and again! Take a look below for my thoughts and more information on treats and toys my doggies got to get their paws on first hand. 

Pegetables: Nutritious and delicious premium dental dog chew treats that are made with real vegetables, including carrots! They are made with all natural ingredients and provide your pup with beneficial supplements derived from real vegetables. Inside our Bugsy Box were two flavors, Carrot & Corn. The Corn flavored Pegetable looks exactly like a mini corn on the cob. It has a bumpy texture and small ridges that help to reduce plaque and tartar. Chloe couldn't wait for me to open these little guys up! She ate the Carrot first and within 5 minutes it was completely devoured. Since these treats are medium sized, they are perfect for smaller dogs like her. I also like that they are fortified with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, protein, fiber, calcium, and vitamins A, B, C, D, & E. With that being said, I know my dogs are getting a healthy treat that is also tasty. 

TenderStikx: These treat sticks come in two different flavors, Beef & Cheddar and Chicken & Cheddar. They are the first moist pet treats without glycerin, chemical preservatives, grains, glutens, or carb fillers. Sam REALLY liked these. He didn't even make time to "chew" the treat. Instead he sniffed and swallowed making it nearly impossible to capture the moment on camera! I guess that means he enjoyed them, huh? 

20' Bottle Buddy: The Bottle Buddy is a reusable toy that brings upon entertainment, joy, and hours of play! By placing an empty water bottle inside, it makes loud crinkling noises every time your dog plays. You can even put a ball or any other rubber dog toy inside. My oldest dog Sam really went to town on this one. The plastic bottle made the toy more exciting and at one point I thought he was going to tear it apart in excitement! The Bottle Buddy is very durable and well made, preventing any tearing or ripping during rough play. It made it through several days so far, which only means it will be lasting around here for quite some time! 

9' Animal Safari: These toys are made with a durable nylon material and stitching, making them the toughest soft toy on the market. The squeakers are loud enough to excite your pup but also quiet enough to not irritate owners. This toy was given to Chloe because she is smaller and it was the ideal size for her. She carried it to her bed right away and burrowed it under her blanket. She tends to hide things from Sam, and this was one treasure she didn't want to share!

Dynamo Dog Treats: These are the latest release from Cloudstar and these Chicken flavored treats promise to hit the spot! They are grain free, gluten free, and are made in the USA from fresh natural ingredients.  They also contain a Hip & Joint formula to help support your dog's specific needs. I love that these treats do not contain any grain and are safe to give to my little pug. As you may remember from previous posts featuring Chloe, she is highly allergic to products that contain wheat and grain. It can be hard to find a treat that she likes that is also free of these ingredients. These must have been extra tasty because even after two, her little nose was nuzzled inside the bag searching for more.

Salmon Paws Stix: These are comparable to Salmon jerky and handmade from 100% Alaskan Wild Salmon. I have never purchased or seen this kind of dog treat at the store. It was just as new to me as it was to my dogs. They do contain high levels of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids which help to maintain healthy skin and coat. Both doggies liked these very much. I think they were refreshed by this unique treat. It's much more different than what they are usually given.


Bugsy's Box is nothing short of amazing. It is one of the best monthly pet subscription boxes I have came across. The variety is impressive and the personalization to your pet's size is just an added benefit. As an owner I am aware that I spend  the same amount of money each month when I go to a pet store to buy treats and toys. The Bugsy Box makes that ordeal easy and effortless for someone as busy as me! They send everything I need right to my door and I get to learn about new products while my dogs experience them. If you are interested in Bugys's Box, visit their website and take a look around. You can also stay in touch via Facebook or send Bugsy a tweet on Twitter!



Disclosure: I was provided with a Bugsy Box to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own! Pin It Now!

Mother's Day Movie Night Blog APP & The Best Of WB 100 Film Collection #GIVEAWAY!

Nothing says "I Love You" on Mother's Day like a classic movie night made for mom! Warner Bros has created a huge collection of their most beloved films including titles such as "The Goonies" and "Batman." It is sure to not only provide entertainment for the whole entire family but also put a huge smile on any mother's face this upcoming holiday. To celebrate the release, Warner Bros has come out with an interactive blog app for fans. Check out the app below and enter for your chance to win the complete film collection!


The Best of WB 100 Film Collection includes 100 movies including all 22 of Warner Bros. Library’s Best Picture™ winners on 55 discs presented in book style premium packaging. Plus two all-new documentaries: Tales from the Warner Bros. Lot and The Warner Bros. Lot Tour. With hours of commentaries, behind-the-scenes featurettes and more on select films. Also includes a limited edition 27” x 40” poster, plus a postcard series of Warner Bros. movie posters designed by legendary Bill Gold.

Here are a few things you can do within the Mother's Day Movie Night Blog App:

• Guess-the-Scene Game! How well do you know the silver screen’s most famous love stories and sing-a-longs? Play the Guess-the-Scene game to test your knowledge on the world’s greatest films! The quicker you pick, the more points you score. Ready? Action!

• Words in Film! Select your mood and let quotes and images from film express how you’re feeling!

• Movie Night Conversation Starters! Watching a classic flick together is the perfect opportunity to catch up and share stories... this Mother’s Day make it a point to connect with your family and give them a chance to learn something about mom they never knew!

Partners Hub and Warner Bros have generously provided Young At Heart Mommy readers with the opportunity to win The Best of WB 100 Film Collection! This would make an awesome Mother's Day gift and would put the cherry on top of any movie night. To enter, use the rafflecopter form below.

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Disclosure: The materials provided for this post were supplied by Warner Bros and Partners Hub. I am not being compensated and all opinions are my own!

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#WIN- Star Wars: Angry Birds Millennium Falcon & Foam Flyer GIVEAWAY!

Hasbro has just released three games from their new Angry Birds: Star Wars  line. This collection of toys is perfect for die hard Star Wars fans who also enjoy playing Angry Birds, the most addicting game known to man! On May 4th  fans around the world will be celebrating Star Wars day.  You can celebrate with your family by playing one of the three games within the Angry Birds: Star Wars collection. Die hard fan? Don't limit yourself to just one, play them all and may the force be with you! Enter below and you could win the Angry Birds Millennium Falcon Bounce Game & an Angry Birds Foam Flyer.

ANGRY BIRDS^TM STAR WARS® AT-AT^TM ATTACK BATTLE GAME

(Approximate retail price: $39.99; Ages: 5 & up. Available: Now)

Stack, launch, and destroy with the AT-AT ATTACK BATTLE GAME, which includes 21 blocks to create the signature AT-AT, a LIGHTSABER LAUNCHER and 12 ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS figures — including two that are exclusive to this set! Players can also unlock ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS in-app content with a special code in each pack. 

ANGRY BIRDS^TM STAR WARS® MILLENNIUM FALCON^TM BOUNCE GAME

(Approximate retail price: $19.99; Ages: 8 & up; Players: 1-2; Available: Now)

Bounce into action with the new ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS MILLENNIUM FALCON BOUNCE GAME. Bounce three balls at the MILLENNIUM FALCON to knock down as many enemy pigs as possible, and land in the cockpit to score big! Players can also unlock ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS in-app content with a special code in each pack.

ANGRY BIRDS^TM STAR WARS® FOAM FLYERS

(Approximate retail price: $9.99; Ages: 5 & up. Available: Now) 

Toss around these 3.5-inch soft foam, iconic characters for a new way to play ANGRY BIRDS STAR WARS! Available in LUKE SKYWALKER, CHEWBACCA, DARTH VADER and STORMTROOPER. 

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Disclosure: I was provided with two Star Wars: Angry Bird games to facilitate this post. I will not be compensated and all opinions are my own!

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Words Hurt: Take The Pledge & Stand Up Against Bullying + GIVEAWAY!

Image from The Bullying Project

As children, teens, and even adults each and every one of us has experienced bullying in some shape or form. Whether we have been a victim or a witness, there is no denying that it is toxic and damaging. Sometimes those who are doing the bullying or teasing do not realize how hurtful their words are. Most younger children do not even think twice about the consequence that follows soon after. While some have tough skin, words hurt and often lead to permanent damage. Being bullied can lead to depression, low self esteem, anxiety, and an overwhelming feeling of loneliness. Long term effects also include substance abuse and even suicide. 

Bullying can be defined by three types of abuse. It is not ONLY delivered by verbal attacks but also physical and emotional. Badgering, repeated aggressive behavior, teasing, name calling, and intentionally causing someone harm are all considered forms of bullying. I can guarantee that everyone has experienced one of the listed behaviors. Regardless of which form it is delivered in, it is in no way acceptable and should not be tolerated. 

Image from Swagistic

When I was 15 years old and a sophomore in high school I had my own experience with bullying. As a teenager I was quiet, shy, and kept to myself most of the time. I had my select group of friends and a solid social circle. At the same time I didn't like to be the center of attention. I actually hated it. Being a teenager isn't easy anyways. Those are the years we develop insecurities, begin to compare ourselves to others, and over-analyze just about everything. Not to mention being a teenage GIRL is even more stressful! At this time I began dating and had my first "real" boyfriend. Along with the excitement of this life changing event came a lot of un-necessary drama. For months I had to deal with an over-bearing ex girlfriend and her minions that followed her every command. I couldn't walk to class without encountering one or all of them trying to make feel uncomfortable for their pleasure. Not only did I receive dirty looks and smug comments but I experienced the same treatment online.  

Most of the bullying was done on the good old internet in my situation. It seems like it is much easier to hide behind a computer screen and say horrible things to someone. It is sad to think that people can be so cruel and saying hateful things to make them feel better about themselves. At this time I was called every name in the book and criticized about every imperfection I possessed. It was just a bad time for me. It put such a damper on my self esteem and at times made me question myself. Thankfully I had an amazing support system to back me up. I made it out of "bullying" in one piece and even stronger today. Take THAT jealousy and ignorance! 

 
Educating our children on bullying is beyond important. Take the pledge above and stand against bullying. We have to start somewhere and each small step counts. There is power in numbers and if each person takes the pledge to put an end to this act of abuse, a positive change can be made. It only takes a few minutes of your time and in turn you can be assured that you are contributing to a wonderful cause.

Here are a few tips from KidsHealth.org on taking action against bullying with your own children:

• Take bullying seriously. Make sure your kids understand that you will not tolerate bullying at home or anywhere else. Establish rules about bullying and stick to them. If you punish your child by taking away privileges, be sure it's meaningful. 

• Teach kids to treat others with respect and kindness. Teach your child that it is wrong to ridicule differences (i.e., race, religion, appearance, special needs, gender, economic status) and try to instill a sense of empathy for those who are different. Consider getting involved together in a community group where your child can interact with kids who are different.

• Learn about your child's social life. Look for insight into the factors that may be influencing your child's behavior in the school environment (or wherever the bullying is occurring). Talk with parents of your child's friends and peers, teachers, guidance counselors, and the school principal. Do other kids bully? What about your child's friends? What kinds of pressures do the kids face at school? Talk to your kids about those relationships and about the pressures to fit in. Get them involved in activities outside of school so that they meet and develop friendships with other kids.

• Encourage good behavior. Positive reinforcement can be more powerful than negative discipline. Catch your kids being good — and when they handle situations in ways that are constructive or positive, take notice and praise them for it.

• Set a good example. Think carefully about how you talk around your kids and how you handle conflict and problems. If you behave aggressively — toward or in front of your kids — chances are they'll follow your example. Instead, point out positives in others, rather than negatives. And when conflicts arise in your own life, be open about the frustrations you have and how you cope with your feelings.

Have you had a talk with your children about bullying? As parents it is our job to educate them on treating others with respect and how important it is to be kind to everyone. It is never too soon to instill these behaviors and build confidence! Take the pledge for yourself and your child. 

I am giving away a $25 Build A Bear Gift Card to one of my loyal readers who pledge to do their part to stop bullying. Enter below for the chance to win!

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Disclosure: This post is sponsored by TakePart. All opinions are my own!
 

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