Aksel's Halloween Adventure | A Review

My little goblin loves a good book!  (But what kid doesn't?)

So I was thrilled to receive Aksel's Halloween Adventure, a personalized story, courtesy of First Time Books.

I thought, "Spoo-ooky!  A story starring Aks.  How cool!"

Not to mention, I was tickled to include, as characters in said story, names of Aksel's closest friends.

But the novelty only goes so far, folks.

Grant it, the story is delightful, and I know my boy will enjoy reading it in years to come, I don't think the product is worth $20.  And we're just talking softcover.

(A hardcover copy costs $30.)

As a point of criticism too, I really think publishers/editors should modify the cover name font.  I felt Aksel's name was diminutive in comparison to the rest.  If I purchased this book for my child, or as a gift, I would be disappointed in how generic it looks.

On a positive note, I'm thankful to share this story with my little bug, at my favorite time of the year.

Easy Canvas Prints Review + Giveaway

When recently asked to review Easy Canvas Prints, I thought, "Their product should make for a nice gift."

I didn't expect to want one, or many really, for my own home.

Honestly, before receiving my complimentary 8x10" Easy Canvas, I didn't want canvas anything.  Call me a picture snob, or photo elitist, but I just knew I preferred a traditional frame with matting.

Even if it cost more money, and took more time.  NO CANVAS!

With that laid out...

I come to you today with changed opinions my tail between my legs. Because I now love canvas!  And I currently want loads!

For one, the name says it in a nutshell:  they're easy and canvas.

But they're also high-quality, durable, and lightweight.  Not to mention, they still make for a great gift.  (Ours is for Grammy.)

On the topic of gifts however, Easy Canvas Prints is sponsoring (1) 8x10" Canvas + FREE US Ground Shipping for giveaway.

TO ENTER:

* Up to 9 ways to enter (leave a separate comment for each entry):

1. "FOLLOW" Baby Talk without the Babble via Bloglovin'.  (+2)

     2.  "FOLLOW" Baby Talk without the Babble on Facebook.  (+1)

     3.  "FOLLOW" Baby Talk without the Babble on Twitter.  (+1)

     4.  "FOLLOW" Baby Talk without the Babble via Google Friend

          Connect by clicking on the icon at the top of my sidebar.  (+2)

     5.  "LIKE" Baby Talk without the Babble by clicking on

          the Facebook icon below.  (+1)

     6.   "LIKE" Easy Canvas Prints on Facebook.  (+2)

     7.   "FOLLOW" Easy Canvas Prints on Twitter.  (+2)

     8.   "TWEET" this post daily by clicking on the icon below.  (+1)

     9.   "SHARE" this post daily by clicking on the icon below.  (+1)

• Contest will be open until 11:59 PM EDT on Sept 26, 2011.
• Contest winner must have a US mailing address.
• The winner will be randomly selected (from random.org) and announced online. Please check back to see if you won, or leave your email address with comment. The winner will then need to provide their name and shipping address by contacting: babytalknobabble@gmail.com 

A FoundIt 'MacDaddy' Giveaway

Remember my FoundIt review... the lost keys... the two thumbs up?  

Ring any bells?  If not, check it out.  Because the kind folks at FoundIt are sponsoring a 'MacDaddy' giveaway. You could win...

MacDaddy Family Package — $24.99

• 4 years access to FoundIt Network
• Set of 62 stickers
• 2 key tags
• 3 bag tags
• 1 luggage tag/ID card
• 2 round tags (pet tag)

So, if you're prone to misplacing things (ie: cell phones, ipods, kids, keys), I recommend entering.  Good luck!


TO ENTER:

* Up to six ways to enter (leave a comment for each entry):

    1.   "LIKE" FoundIt on Facebook.  (2 ENTRIES)

    2.   "FOLLOW" FoundIt on Twitter.  (2 ENTRIES)

    3.   "FOLLOW" Baby Talk without the Babble via Bloglovin'.

    4.   "TWEET" this post by clicking on the icon below.

    5.   "SHARE" this post by clicking on the icon below.

           Remember: You MUST leave a comment for each entry!

• Contest will be open until 11:59 PM EDT on Sept. 12, 2011.
• Contest winner must have a US or Canadian mailing address.
• The winner will be randomly selected (from random.org) and announced online. Please check back to see if you won, or leave your email address with comment. The winner will then need to provide their name and shipping address by contacting: babytalknobabble@gmail.com 

Will you please vote?

Review: FoundIt!

Every day pets go missing, keys are lost, or a favorite something's misplaced.  And that's where FoundIt comes in to save the day.

But do they really?  That's the question.

To start, let me explain...

How FoundIt Works:

1. You lose your music player.
2. Somebody finds it and sees your FoundIt sticker.
3. The Finder goes to FoundIt.net, enters your ID, and types a message.  (They can also report by text message.)
4. FoundIt notifies you by text and email.
5. You and your device are reunited (and it feels so good).

Now, here's what I received to conduct my FoundIt review:

MacDaddy Family Package — $24.99

• 4 years access to FoundIt Network
• Set of 62 stickers
• 2 key tags
• 3 bag tags
• 1 luggage tag/ID card
• 2 round tags (pet tag)

And here's how I tested FoundIt...

Over the course of three days, I randomly dropped three unique sets
of keys adorned with FoundIt tags in various locations of my city.

(To construct my 'prop' keys, I went to a local hardware store and
asked for throwaways.  I also went to my grocery story and pharmacy
for incentive program tags, so the FoundIt tag wasn't the only one.)

So you know, I did not drop personal valuables (ie: wallet, ipod, cell phone) at risk of incurring monetary loss.

Here are the results of my FoundIt experiment:

Day 1:

Dropped keys in a busy restaurant district at 5:45 PM.
Keys were recovered through FoundIt at 6:42 PM.
Total time:  57 minutes

Day 2:

Dropped keys in the parking lot of a shopping complex at 10:20 AM.
Keys were recovered through FoundIt at 5:34 PM.
Total time:  7 hours, 14 minutes

Day 3:

Dropped keys in the parking lot of a busy diner at 9:55 AM.
Keys were recovered through FoundIt at 3:31 PM.
Total time:  5 hours, 36 minutes

Based on my experience, FoundIt delivers.  The product, at least in
the circumstance of lost keys, really works!  Yippee!

So, if you're prone to misplacing items (and sick of it), I recommend purchasing a FoundIt package.  It's an investment worth making!

Review: Confessions of a Catholic Cop, Pt 1

I'm not going to lie.  I don't read enough.  In the way of books, that is.  Wait.  Let me rephrase.  I don't read enough adult books.

I mean, I read a million children's books a day.

But I can't say, in all honesty, that I've read a real book since devouring Elizabeth Gilbert's Eat, Pray, Love on a Mexican beach two+ years ago.  And unbeknownst to many, it was no crime novel!

So, you can understand my initial hesitation when I received the offer to review Thomas Fitzsimmons's, Confessions of a Catholic Cop: the story of a ten-year police veteran/ part-time actor who digs deep to solve an arson plot that leaves those closest to him, changed forever.

Read about the author here.

"Why me?"  I asked.  "How can I relate?  I don't read crime fiction."

(At least, I didn't read crime fiction then.  I do now!)

Needless to say though, I felt a pull to the material, to Fitzsimmons, as strange as that might sound.  And I always try to follow my gut.

To start, I'm of an Irish Catholic New York-based family (like Fitzsimmons).  And it so happens close relatives have served in the NYPD and US NAVY (like Fitzsimmons).

My Father:  Machinist's Mate 2nd Class

Basically, the similarities were too compelling for me to ignore.

Not to mention, I watch loads of whodunit shows on ID.  And I actually favor a good mystery, a suspenseful crime story on television.

So, I agreed to review his book.  Or at least, I'd give it a go...

Check back soon for the conclusion (nuts+bolts) of my review. And let's just say, I'm glad I followed my instincts on this one!

I made a truly interesting discovery...

A Mixbook Photo Book Review and Giveaway

I received my newly-completed, first-ever Mixbook Photo Book in the mail yesterday.  And boy was I excited!  

By the way, it turned out pretty good!

Now, I have the task of reviewing my Mixbook experience...

To start, I would like to establish a few facts:

1. I love photos!
2. I only create 1-2 photo books per year.
3. I'm willing to pay extra money for a high-quality product.

With that said, here are my thoughts - the pros and cons of Mixbook, in my opinion.

THE PROS:

Mixbook photo books are very affordable!

Mixbook provides users an easy-to-use editing program, that boasts loads of customizing options.  For instance, they offer countless background choices (although I prefer just black and white), stickers for nearly every occasion, and lots of layout formats for the photo-heavy clients like myself.

Not to mention, my dealings with associates at Mixbook have all been positive.  And that's rare!  Their staff is prompt and eager to assist.

THE CONS:

Mixbook only offers two cover choices:  Hardcover or softcover.  And this is disappointing!  For instance...

I would've loved, and paid for, a padded photo cover option.

So you know, I didn't originally think the hardcover would be all bad. But when I opened my Mixbook package, I was honestly unimpressed. Mainly with the feel of my photo book.

And that's sad, because I spent so much time on the content of my book.  It's like trying to sell a beautiful house with zero curb appeal.

I mean, I traditionally create only one photo book per year (two at the very most), and given they're primarily intended as gifts (for grandparents), I'm willing to pay more for a product that wows.

But despite my criticism, the paper quality of my photo book wasn't bad.  There was, in fact, a nice sheen to each page.  

Overall, my Mixbook experience was good.  It could've been great had I been given a few more options.  (3 out of 5)

| View Sample Photo Books | Create your own Photo Book

Anyhow, enter now to win (1) 20-page, 11x8.5" landscape, hardcover photo book with free US Ground Shipping courtesy of Mixbook.

TO ENTER:

* Up to six ways to enter (leave a comment for each entry):

1. "VOTE" for Baby Talk without the Babble by clicking on the TopBabyBlogs icon below.  (2 ENTRIES)

          * You can "VOTE" one time in 24 hours. Just leave a comment for each day/entry.

    2.   "LIKE" Mixbook on Facebook.  (2 ENTRIES)

    3.   "FOLLOW" Mixbook on Twitter.  (2 ENTRIES)

    4.   "FOLLOW" Baby Talk without the Babble via Bloglovin'.

    5.   "TWEET" this post by clicking on the icon below.

    6.   "SHARE" this post by clicking on the icon below.

           Remember: You MUST leave a comment for each entry!

• Contest will be open until 11:59 PM EDT on August 22, 2011.
• Contest winner must have a US or Canadian mailing address.
• The winner will be randomly selected (from random.org) and announced online. Please check back to see if you won, or leave your email address with comment. The winner will then need to provide their name and shipping address by contacting: babytalknobabble@gmail.com 

Momma Groucho

Inspector Gadget, am I?  Or better yet, Inspector Clouseau... ?

But no, I think Momma Groucho has a better ring to it.  How shall I say? A certain je ne sais quoi...

Nonetheless, I'm crackin' the case to review a few interesting, if not, puzzling, products.  So, be on the lookout.

In the meantime, how 'bout a vote?  :)

I ♥ Tiny Prints!

I've said it both here and here, I love Tiny Prints!  For example, check out a few of the cards I created for Father's Day:

Here's the best part though, for five cards (with postage and shipping included), I only paid $7.43!  You can't beat that!

To enjoy similar discounts, create a Tiny Prints account here, then wait until a week or so before any large holiday.  At that time, you should receive an email with relevant holiday promotional codes. 

Not to mention, register today, and you'll get 15% off your first order.

For the quality and price, Tiny Prints' products are superior!  I love 'em, and I'm not being paid to write this.  I'm just sayin'...

A [Cozyblue] Giveaway.

I'm gonna go out on a LIMB here and say you need this pillow.

Let me rephrase.  If you're a SAP like me, you'll want this pillow. 

But really, if your love is like an OAK, long-standing and deep-rooted, you should enter this giveaway sponsored by [cozyblue].  

(It's not the ocean, but is is BLUE!)

If that didn't quite work, how 'bout a little hypnotic persuasion? 

Look into my eyes.  You are getting very sleepy.  Now at the count of TREE, you will clamor for your own personalized, embroidered [cozyblue] pillow.  You won't LEAF it up to fate either, you will quickly enter to win this sponsor giveaway. 

Seriously though, I purchased this pillowcase a couple months back, and it's been the cutest corner addition. Not to mention, you can now add a baby leaf to your tree, too.  Check it out here.

To clarify, should you indeed win, you will receive (1) custom heart -- tree print pillow cover -- personalized with your names or initials, and (1) 12 x 12 pillow insert.  (ARV $40)

TO ENTER (MANDATORY):

1. "FOLLOW" Baby Talk without the Babble via Google Friend Connect by clicking on the icon at the top of my sidebar.

    2.   "LIKE" [cozyblue] on Facebook and tell us which product's your
          favorite. * Search through her Etsy shop here..

    3.   THEN LEAVE A COMMENT AND EMAIL ADDRESS.

FOR EXTRA ENTRIES:

* Up to 10 ways to enter (leave a comment for each entry):

1. "VOTE" for Baby Talk without the Babble by clicking on the TopBabyBlogs icon below:

          * You can "VOTE" one time in 24 hours. Just leave a comment for each day/entry.

    2.   "LIKE" Baby Talk without the Babble by clicking on the
          Facebook icon below:

            * Leave a comment letting me know you "LIKED" Baby Talk...

    3.   "JOIN" Baby Talk without the Babble's Facebook fan page

          by clicking below:

Baby Talk without the Babble 

           * Leave a comment letting me know you "JOINED" the fan page.

     4.   "FOLLOW" Baby Talk without the Babble on Twitter.

     5.   "FOLLOW" Baby Talk without the Babble via Bloglovin'.

     6.   "SUBSCRIBE" to get Baby Talk without the Babble by email.

              * You MUST confirm your subscription!

     7.   "GRAB MY BUTTON" and post it on your blog.

              * Leave a URL for me to confirm.

     8.   "WRITE A POST" about this giveaway.
             
              * Leave a URL for me to confirm.

     9.   "TWEET" this post by clicking on the appropriate icon below.

   10.   "SHARE" this post by clicking on the appropriate icon below.

           Remember: You MUST leave a comment for each entry!

• Contest will be open until 11:59 PM EDT on July 25, 2011.
• Contest winner must have a US or Canadian mailing address.
• Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery after the drawing results.
• The winner will be randomly selected (from random.org) and announced online. Please check back to see if you won, or leave your email address with comment. The winner will then need to provide their name and shipping address by contacting: babytalknobabble@gmail.com 

An Essential Summer Hair Product.

As I mentioned yesterday, it's my blogging intention to share with you my favorite beach products, or summer ones, nonetheless.

It's only appropriate, seeing as I'm at the beach for the next 10 days.

So, I'll dive right in.  But first, I must share a secret... 

Despite what you might think, through photos you have seen, the luxurious, shining locks I have displayed in posts past and present, are in fact, a misrepresentation.  Or rather, a diligent work in hair progress.  In actuality, I have very coarse, curly hair. 

Did you get that? 

Very coarse.  Very curly.

And, I'm not lying! 

Honestly, my natural hair's a mix somewhere between Troy Polamalu and Sideshow Bob.  But I'm here to say there's hope!  In the form of a conditioning product, MORROCANOIL®.

I love it!  More specific, it's light texture, fragrant smell of sandalwood and musk, and high shine quality.  Plus, a little goes a long way.  I mean, a dollop in the hand, a light finger-comb through my now short hair, and I'm set to go.  Not to mention, I use it on my mini-main man's mane, too.  Aksel, that is. 

Now, how's that for a tongue-twister?  Mini-main man's mane...

It works though, and I highly recommend snagging a bottle to protect your hair from the elements of a long, hot summer.

MOROCCANOIL

Embarrassing, curly hair photos to follow soon...

Win a 'Stache by The Stitch!

If you're just tuning in, Aksel wore this mustache tee during his first haircut here.  It was perfect, too!

I'll explain why...

Being the theme-driven mother that I am, and loving costumes like I do, I couldn't have found a more appropriate olden barbershop buy.

In my opinion, nothing screams haircut like a casanova mustache.  So, you can understand my excitement at finding this perfect shirt! 

Design by Corinne Citrolo of Charleston's, The Fresh Stitch.

But, what I didn't know at the time of purchase was really how awesome it is?!  It's, hands-down, my favorite tee in Aksel's closet!  Ultra-soft, lightweight, and chic... I WANT ONE! 

Seeing as that's not possible though, I'm happy to announce that we're giving one away instead.  In fact, Corinne has graciously offered to sponsor (1) Boy Mustache Tee for a lucky BTWTB reader.

See the available size options and colors:

TO ENTER (MANDATORY):

1. "FOLLOW" Baby Talk without the Babble via Google Friend Connect by clicking on the icon at the top of my sidebar. 

    2.   "VISIT" The Fresh Stitch and tell us which product is your
           favorite.  * Leave a comment when you're finished.


FOR EXTRA ENTRIES:

* Up to eight extra ways to enter (leave a comment for each entry):

1. "VOTE" for Baby Talk without the Babble by clicking on theTopBabyBlogs icon below:

          * You can "VOTE" one time per day. Just leave a comment for each day/entry.

    2.   "LIKE" Baby Talk without the Babble by clicking on the
          Facebook icon below:

           * Leave a comment letting me know you "LIKED" Baby Talk...

    3.   "JOIN" Baby Talk without the Babble's Facebook fan page

          by clicking below:

Baby Talk without the Babble 

          * Leave a comment letting me know you "JOINED" the fan page.

    4.   "LIKE" The Fresh Stitch on Facebook.

          * Leave a comment letting me know you "LIKED" The Fresh Stitch...

    5.   "FOLLOW" Baby Talk without the Babble on Twitter.

      
          * Leave a comment letting me know that you are/have become a follower.

    6.   "FOLLOW" Baby Talk without the Babble on Bloglovin'.

             * Leave a comment letting me know that you are/have become a follower.

    7.   "TWEET" this post by clicking on the appropriate icon below.

    8.   "SHARE" this post by clicking on the appropriate icon below.

           Remember: You MUST leave a comment for each entry!

• Contest will be open until 11:59 PM EDT on June 27, 2011.
• Contest winner must have a US or Canadian mailing address.
• The winner will be randomly selected (from random.org) and announced online. Please check back to see if you won, or leave your email address with comment. The winner will then need to provide their name and shipping address by contacting: babytalknobabble@gmail.com 

In Charleston?  The Fresh Stitch is available at Poe Studio.