Suzanne Humphries on Vaccines

Holiday Decorating: Safety Tips with Little Ones in Mind

For those with children around during the holidays, there are many possible hazards contained in a single home.  From holiday decor to festive plants to those beautiful yet breakable ornamental pieces, there are opportunities for accidents lurking around every corner.  But do not dismay, the holidays can still be full of festive décor without putting your children at risk.  With little ones in our home, it is a necessity to take every precaution while decorating for the holidays.  Below are a few safety reminders when preparing your home for the holidays:

• Christmas trees can be dangerous to children who put items in their mouth.  One option is to set up a children’s safety gate around your tree to keep those little ones away from danger.  Another option is if you have a live tree, cut back low hanging branches just enough for an infant’s arm’s reach.  If you have an artificial tree like we do in our home, I suggest folding any low lying branches up away from a tiny, reaching hand.

• Christmas trees can also be dangerous if not sturdy.  We put sand bags all around the base of our tree’s trunk to better secure it.  This doesn’t mean it isn’t still possible for a three year old to pull it over.  Always supervise with children in the room.

• Whether your tree is real or artificial, be sure to keep any pine needles off your floor.  In our home, vacuuming around the tree is adequate from keeping the needles out of a curious mouth.

• Beware of breakable tree ornaments.  Although beautiful, there are a multitude of other options to choose from when decorating your tree.  One option is to choose ornaments made of wood with either a non-toxic stain or paint.  Not only is this safer for your children but will also make for a uniquely decorated tree.

• Tree lights are a staple in most holiday decorative homes but they can be dangerous for children who want to play with them.  I suggest hanging lights towards the tree trunk instead of towards the end of the tree’s branches.  This will keep hands away.  You could also skip lights altogether and choose instead to create popcorn or cranberry strings.  Not only would this be a safer option, it would be beautiful and a fun and creative way for the family to spend quality time together!

• Decorative plants such as poinsettias add beautifully to your home during the holidays.  If you choose to get one, be sure to keep it high enough away from a child’s reach.

• Don’t forget that while many older children may be opening up presents with delight, many of those gifts may contain small parts that are choking hazards to younger children.  Try to keep a keen eye on anything in your children’s environment that could be a danger.

•  And last, but not least, although your grandmother’s eggnog recipe may be a tasty treat for you and your guests, not all eggnog is meant for children.  I suggest including a non-alcoholic version so all can enjoy.

Although with children your holiday preparation may be different than in previous years, they are no less fun.  There is truly nothing better than a holiday celebration full of children’s laughter and good cheer!

Happy holidays!

Mommy Bridget

Eve Organic's Balance Line Giveaway Reminder-ends 11/16

Don't forget to enter this wonderful giveaway!  Eve Organic's balance line is a definite must try for those of you looking for a great, all natural and non-toxic facial product.  To enter the giveaway, click here.

Good luck!

Mommy Bridget

Eve Organic's Balance Line Review and Giveaway-ends 11/16

Eve Organic's "Balance" Line Review and Giveaway-Ends 11/16

I had the opportunity to review some wonderful, organic facial products from Eve Organics.  Eve Organics created a skin care line of pure, mineral makeup and organic skin care that provides products free of toxic ingredients that are harmful to your health.  I was super excited about reviewing their "balance" line following the birth of my second son since I am prone to unbalanced skin during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.  And I must say I have had the best experience with Eve Organic's products for my face.

Most facial/beauty products found on market shelves contain toxic ingredients that wreak havoc on your body.  Fortunately, there are companies such as Eve Organics that produces products that are safe.  However, it can be a challenge to find the right product that is effective for your particular skin. Eve Organic's products are free of:

• dyes
• synthetic fragrance
• bismuth oxychloride
• talc
• methylparaben
• propylparaben
• UREA
• sulfates
• phthalates

To those that are unaware, the above ingredients can cause everything from organ damage to cancer/tumors to Fibromyalgia (to name a few).  Fortunately, there are companies out there like Eve Organics that are committed to making safe and effective skin care.  I reviewed their "balance" line for combination skin.

Balance "Rejuv Skin Repair" Cleanser:

• white, green and South African Rooibos tea
• vitamins A, B5, C, E
• therapeutic grade essential oils of Bergomat, Roman and German Chamomile and Tea tree

Renew skin's defenses against oxidative stress and damage from aging.  Rejuv empowers skin to regenerate skin cells and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles.  Expertly blended therapeutic grade essential oils support hormonal balance for a perfect women's formula.

I am undecided on whether I like this cleanser.  It seems to work well and it smells wonderful, but, it doesn't create a lather and I need a lather when washing my skin.  That is my only complaint.  I love the natural ingredients contained in this cleanser that are known to calm skin while cleansing.

Balance "Clear and Fresh Moisturizing" toner:

• organic Aloe Vera
• Rose distillate
• Black Willowbark
• therapeutic grade essential Tea Tree oil

Aloe and rose distillate make this gentle toner perfect for combination skin.

 

I love this toner!  It is a final cleanser following my face wash and does a great job wiping away any excess makeup, dirt or oil while toning my skin.  It makes my face feel fresh and tingles as it dries.  This is a great toner to use nightly following your wash.

Balance "Quantum Quencher" Facial Moisturizer:

• organic Jojoba
• organic Coconut and Avocado oils
• naturally derived DMAE and MSM
• therapeutic grade essential oils of Clary Sage, Ylang Ylang, Jasmine and Rose

This monumental moisturizing lotion has quantum qualities.  Aloe & South African Rooibos Tea soothe skin with anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants.  Naturally derived MSM feeds the formation of collagen and helps eliminate brown spots and wrinkles.  Naturally derived DMAE protects cell walls from free radicals and is known to tighten pores and reduce visible signs of aging.  With daily use, a cumulative skin tightening effect will be noticable.  Expertly blended therapeutic grade essential oils support hormonal balance for a perfect womens' formula.

 

You've got to try this moisturizer for any of you with combination skin!  I've been searching for a good moisturizer that wouldn't make my skin oily yet would bring the moisture to my face that it so desperately needs (from living in a dry environment).  And this is it!  It really works great.  My skin hasn't looked better since before I was pregnant with my first son.  I highly recommend this product to anyone.

I want to thank Eve Organics for the opportunity to review their balance line for skin care.  I appreciate your creative effort in making products that are safe and effective for use.

Buy it:

You can purchase Eve Organic products online here or at any participating retail store found here. 

Win it:

Eve Organics is graciously giving away their balance line skin care set to one lucky winner on The Curious Case of Mommyhood! Open to US residents only.

To Enter:

***REMEMBER: POST A COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY***

***Also, remember to leave your email address with your comments so you can be reached*** 

Subscribe to my blog (located on the left side of my home page) and tell me what skin care line you currently use.  This is MANDATORY to enter the giveaway.

You also have the opportunity for additional entries (one each) if you do any of the following:

• follow The Curious Case of Mommyhood on Google Follower
• grab my blog button and share (please post link)  
• tell me what you currently use as facial products and if you are satisfied with them
  
• like The Curious Case of Mommyhood on Facebook
• like Eve Organics on Facebook
• repost this giveaway on your facebook page and post the link with your entry
• follow The Curious Mommy on Twitter
• tell me something else about Eve Organics
• subscribe to the Eve Organic's blog 

Again, please be sure to leave your email address with each entry.

You have until November 16th at midnight to enter.

Good luck to you all,

Mommy Bridget 


Eve Organics Balance Line was provided to me by Eve Organics for review.  All opinions on the products are purely my own (please see my disclosure on my "Reviews" page for more information).  

Madii & Dyl Toddlers Comfort Pillow and Luxe Wipe Review

Madii & Dyl Toddlers Comfort Pillow and Luxe Wipe Review

We often times wonder as parents what type of pillow is right for our little ones to use as part of their bedding.  What size is appropriate?  How soft or firm should they be and what materials are safe for our babies to lay on?  Madii Dylan Australia carries the perfect solution: pillows created specially for first time pillow users.  Madii Dylan Australia is a company that created products by a mother who was in search of the right pillows and cleaning cloths for her own children.  We had the opportunity to review her Teenii Tot pillow as well as her Luxe Wipe on our little one for his first time pillow use and as a replacement cleansing cloth for his tender, baby skin.

Teenii Tot Pillow

Toddlers Comfort Pillow | 18 months +
Measures: 42 x 25 cms
For first time pillow users

Made for toddlers and walkers, our distinctive wave design conforms to the child's head offering proper neck support and spine alignment. Self-ventilating cores provide maximum air flow, keeping the child cool and comfortable. Perfect for allergy sufferers, it is the only pillow that can be washed and never change its shape: Lasts for 5yrs+.

For first time pillow users, this comfort pillow is designed to support the child's head while in any position, is hypoallergenic and antibacterial and because of its 100% certified organic latex material, never loses it's supportive shape.  

We love this pillow.  Not only did our son sleep soundly while resting his head and neck on it, it's comforting to know that its hypoallergenic and antibacterial materials keep him safe.  I also love that I can wash it over and over again and know that it won't lose its proper support.  The pillow also comes with a pillow protector and cotton case...something our family can appreciate since we like to have all of our pillows protected.

The Teenii Tot pillow is the perfect size and perfect introduction to your little one's bedding.  It is comfortable, lightweight and safe to use.  You can purchase the Teenii Tot Pillow for around $50 from Madii & Dyl online here.  For a pillow that lasts 5+ years, you know you are making a great investment with this choice!  Madii & Dyl carries a variety of pillows to fit your children's needs, including the Sooki Babe for infant head support and the Mini Me for your 4 year old and older.


Luxe Cleansing Flannel Cloth

 
Measures: 23 x 23cms
Super-soft when wet, its silky texture and high absorbency is perfect on delicate areas. It cleans without wetting or scratching fragile skin and dries without stripping moisture. Safe on babies' peeling skin or soft skull, it is ideal for eczema, cradle cap and other problem skin conditions. Works hand in hand with cosmetic treatments as it cleanses the skin without wetting the bandages or spoiling the bruised areas which are sore to touch.

Made from eco-friendly materials, the flannel is air-spun and porous free. To clean, the flannel can be hand washed in warm soapy water or in a machine at 40°. Hardens when dry to prevent bacteria but regains its silky soft feel when wet.
 

I absolutely love Maddi & Dyl's Luxe Cleansing Flannel Cloth for both of my sons.  This cloth is so unbelievably soft and silky, I wish I would have had it sooner!  I feel so comfortable using it on my baby's skin, including the most delicate parts around his face.  I can also use it to clean to most tough of messes on my toddler's face and hands and rest assured I'm not hurting his skin.  It does dry in a quite peculiar way, however, so don't be alarmed when your wet, super soft cloth turns dry and hard.  It is totally normal.  You will love this cleansing cloth...and adults can use it too!  It is definitely a must have item for cleaning your children.  The cost is around $15 and can be purchased online here.


You can also find Madii Dylan Australia socially on Facebook and on Twitter (under the name Kids Day Out).


I want to thank Madii Dylan Australia for the wonderful opportunity for my family to review a few of their great products.  We love them!


Bridget James

The Teenii Tot pillow and Luxe Cleaning Cloth were sent to me by Madii Dylan Australia for review.  All opinions on the products above are purely my own (please see my full disclosure under my "Reviews" page for more information).

Newman's Own Organics Giveaway- ending this week (low entries)

Hi everyone!  There is only a few more days to enter the Newman's Own Organics giveaway and entries are low so your chances are great.  The giveaway includes:

• Fig Newmans/low fat
• Newman-O's Chocolate Creme Filled Chocolate Cookies
• Alphabet Cookies-Cinnamon Graham
• Berry Blend Dried Fruit

And they are SO yummy!!!  So enter here if you want some mouth savoring treats made with pure organic ingredients.

Mommy Bridget

Preschooling It and Our 6 Month Old

Life just seems to be flying by these days.  It's hard to believe my baby is already 6 months old and my little Park man is now in preschool.  I feel so fortunate as life continues to be falling into place for my family and things just keep getting better and better.  I am so proud of how far we have all come, how we continue to move forward and pinch myself often to make sure I'm not dreaming.  Life is grand!

It is coming to end, our summer that is, and fall is approaching.  I can tell by the way the wind blows in the late evening and early mornings, and by the ten degree drop in average daily temperature.  Although it is still warm and sunny, mostly in the 80's during the days, it is still a huge relief from the high 90's we experience in Utah for most of the summer.  I love the fall, school begins for so many of our youngsters and days for me feel more relaxed.  I always joke that we wait all year for summer to come but end up so busy in the summer with house projects, gardening, weeding and taking trips that it's not the least bit relaxing.  I suppose someday when I feel we've done everything to our house we want to do and when someone comes up with an earth friendly anti-weed product that actually works, I will finally feel relaxed:)

Our little Jude is growing up so fast.  He is now 6 1/2 months old and doing so much.  I can't even begin to tell you how fast that went!  Jude reminds me so much of his big brother in so many ways while at the same time is so much the opposite.  (Isn't it great how unique our kiddos are?!)  He is now sitting up with some support, he talks SO much that I swear he says "mama" already (Mom, no teasin'.  He is a genius;)  But really, when he is crying for me in another room he often times makes the sounds "mamama" and so I think...

Jude began teething a while ago.  He isn't drooling quite as much but we've had a few nights of discomfort that only lasted for a few minutes.  Let's just hope he teethes as well as Park did.  That was a breeze!  He loves to stand, with assistance of course, and thoroughly enjoys any toy, bouncer or even his car seat.  He even gets super mad when his brother takes a toy away from him.  I figure that's a good thing since he is going to need a strong will with an older brother like Park.  He is quite friendly and engaging with others as long as mommy or daddy are holding him but does NOT like being in anyone else's arms. Park was the exact same way.

Park, on the other hand, is Mr. Social these days.  He loves loves LOVES to go places, see new things and play with his "fwends".  He lets me leave him at friend's or cousin's houses without hesitancy and gives hugs and kisses often to each and every one.  I can't tell you how many times a day he asks to go in the car to go play with his buddies.  It's cute...it really is...and I am so proud to have such an outgoing little man.  BUT, it isn't easy.  He is definitely continuing to keep me on my toes!

Park is still delayed at speaking but continues to get better and better.  We figure it will take a few years for his language to be at an average level.  He is doing well with it, and we are proud of him.

Park also began Montessori preschool in August.  After finishing up with his services from Early Intervention it was recommended that we put him through the school system's preschool program.  After careful consideration, we declined thinking a few things:

(1) He is on the right track already
(2) He is only 3
(3) He would have a difficult time being forced to learn something he doesn't want to learn/sitting at desks, etc
(4) We want him to be in a normal setting classroom, not one that pulls kids aside for an hour a day away from his classmates to work with his language skills.  

Which is why we chose Montessori.  Montessori is learning through play and just what we felt he needed.  And so far, we were right.  He absolutely loves it!  For the energetic and charismatic little man Park is, Montessori a few mornings a week have been nothing but positive for him.  He came home with a compass that he made with a paper plate, construction paper and a screw and told me all about how it works.  Yes, I could have made it at home with him and done the same.  But, the proud look on his face when he was showing me his craft was priceless.  We do art projects here and there at home but he isn't half as excited about them with me and Marshall as he is about the ones he does at school.  Park's school has t.v. screens that you can watch each classroom on.  I always watch it after I drop him off or before I pick him up for a few minutes to see what he is up to and it really is the sweetest.  Never in a million years would we have thought our little Park would be sitting in a circle reading books, passing along a teddy bear for others to hug or dancing along with his friends and teachers.  And to top it off, one of his teachers is a speech therapist:)  Score!!!

We are so thankful for the opportunity to have Park in such a great environment twice a week, feeding his heart, mind and soul as an addition to what he has at home.  Montessori is so great for him, despite the cost out of our pockets.  Oh, did I mention that I drive 2 hours a days to take him for a 3 hour class?  Yup, that's LOVE:)  My husband and I are trying to work it out so he drops him off and I pick him up to reduce gas, drive time and emissions.  We actually did that today and it was really nice.  I'm just thinking that I hope we can put him in something else for next year as I would much rather have him in preschool closer to home.  I wonder if Jude will be the opposite of his brother???  He may be a homebody who would rather be at home with his mommy, helping bake banana bread and coloring in books.  Hey, it would be a lot cheaper if he were!

Wow, life goes really fast when you have children.  And what a reminder to take it slow and enjoy yourself, even the difficult stuff.  I am told all the time that it gets harder as they get older.  Well, I'm sure they are right but right now I find sleep deprivation and the scare of autism to be pretty high on the difficulty charts.  Other than that, I feel life as a Mom now to pretty amazing.  I love being a mom, and I love being Park and Jude's Mom.

I hope you are all enjoying the rest of your summer and look forward to the fall of the leaves and change of colors.  May you all be well!

Mommy Bridget

Newman's Own Organics Review and Giveaway- ends 9/16

Newman's Own Organics Review and Giveaway-ends 9/16

The Newman's Own Organics line began in 1993 by Nell Newman and her business partner, Paul Meehan when the company saw a demand for organic products in the market.  In just 8 years, the new line was so successful that it became its own independent company.  Peter Meehan said, "We focus on the kinds of products we loved as kids, but take them one step further by using the highest quality of available organic ingredients...".  And after reviewing many of their snacks I can attest that their products truly are made with the finest of ingredients.

I had the opportunity to review Newman's Own Organics pretzels, their signature chocolate line, their Fig Newman's, their chocolate chip and alphabet cookies, their Newman O's, a variety of licorice and mint flavors, their original and delicious Ginger O's, their "Hermits" and their dried fruit mix and raisins.  Needless to say, my family has been in heaven with our snacks since the review began earlier this summer!


Newman's Own Organics Pretzels

 
We tasted three different types of Newman's Own Organics pretzels: 

• Mighty Minis
• Honey Wheat
• Spelt

Their Mighty Minis were delicious.  We like the fact that the pretzels are made with basic ingredients that we all know.  The Mighty Minis are comparable to your basic pretzel on the market but are made with high quality ingredients...no fillers or questionable ingredients (also applies to their other pretzel flavors).  Their Spelt pretzels, which are made with spelt flour instead of the traditional unbleached wheat or white flour, are also great tasting.  The only difference I think is they taste a bit drier, due to the type of flour.  But, nonetheless tasty!  

Our absolute favorite was Newman's Own Organics Honey Wheat Pretzels.  Now I've never been much of a fan of pretzels for snacking but I really really love these.  The honey and the wheat have such bold flavor and combined make for a truly great snack!

Newman's Own Organics Mints  

• Cinnamon
• Wintergreen
• Peppermint
• Ginger

These are my husband's favorite!  For those who prefer mints over chewing gum, Newman's Own Organics Mints are for you.  Enjoy the peppermint and wintergreen flavors for an after dinner treat or the cinnamon flavor for when you are craving a treat (this flavor is my personal favorite).  The ginger is wonderful for those of you who are fans of the ginger flavor.  I am not much of a fan of snacking on ginger flavored items but have used them to help treat nausea associated with migraines or pregnancy sickness.  All in all, if you are looking for a good mint to have in your purse or pocket, you will love Newman's Own Organics Mints!

Newman's Own Organics Licorice

• Pomegranate
• Strawberry
• Tangerine
• Black

Based on the opinion of my husband, the best flavor was Newman's Own Organics black licorice.  The texture of their licorice seemed to be slightly tougher to eat than other licorice he has eaten but not by much.  The pomegranate flavor was "interesting...in a good way" but definitely for those who like that particular flavor.  The tangerine and strawberry licorice are also great flavors the whole family will enjoy.  I think it's great how creative Newman's Own Organics was when they created their variety of licorice flavors.  Who would have thought of such flavors as tangerine and pomegranate?  Well, that's Newman's Own Organics for you.  They are the quintessential creative masters!

Newman's Own Organics Dried Fruit

• Berry Blend
• Raisins

I absolutely love Newman's Own Organics Berry Blend of dried fruit.  In it contains raisins, cranberries, blueberries, and cherries.  The mix is a super healthy choice for snacking and good for my whole family.  The raisins are also excellent for snacking and in our home, baking.  Although my son and I are not big fans of raisins, my husband loves them and has enjoyed them as a snack to take with him to work or on the go.  I love that the Newman's Own Organics Dried Fruit snacks are pure, organic and wholesome.

Newman's Own Organics Cookies 

• Arrowroot Alphabet Cookies
• Cinnamon Graham Cookies
• Champion Chip (Chocolate Chocolate Chip) Cookies
• Champion Chip (Chocolate Chip) Cookies

Can I just say, more please!  These delicious snack cookies are truly a special treat.  Instead of using the traditional ingredient, butter, Newman's Own Organics opted for palm fruit oil; therefore, containing no hygrogenated oils and trans fats.  

Newman's Own Organics Champion Chip cookies are exactly that, the "champion" of all cookies.  Their "chocolate-chocolate chip" cookie is quite honestly the best tasting chocolate chip cookie that's ever hit my mouth.  This one is a must have for sure.  They are so tasty, I couldn't get enough of them...so much so that they weren't shared with my husband!  I did find, however, that much of the cookies in the bag were reduced to crumbles before I had the chance to eat them.  Although I appreciate that Newman's Own Organics uses as little packaging as possible, I would suggest that the cookies be placed in a safer bag so to preserve the cookie for eating.  

Newman's Own Organics alphabet cookies were also a delicious snack.  I enjoyed both of the flavors, my favorite being their cinnamon graham.  And for those who like arrowroot flour, their Arrowroot alphabet cookie is a great alternative to traditional flour cookies. 

Fig Newmans 

• original/low fat
• fat free

These are delicious!  I enjoyed both the low fat and fat free Fig Newmans.  (They also carry a wheat free and dairy free version but I didn't review this one).  To be honest, I couldn't tell which one was simply low fat versus the fat free...they both tasted great.  As a child I always loved the "fig newtons".  It had been a long time since I had tried this type of snack but once it hit my mouth, I was quickly brought back to my youth.  Filled with organic figs, these super soft and chewy snacks are not only super low in fat but taste great too.  They also include a hint of natural lemon flavor that adds to the brilliance of this snack.  The Fig Newmans are a great alternative to a cookie because they taste great and are, well, better for you! 

Hermits 

• original
• ginger 

The Newman's Own Organics "Hermits" are a complete original.  A cross between a soft cookie and a bar, the "Hermits" are decadent, rich, soft and chewy morsels of yummy goodness.  Both the original and ginger Hermits are made with organic raisins and organic molasses, a great recipe for success.  The ginger Hermits are for all the ginger lovers out there.  You have got to try these!

Newman's Own Organics Signature Series Chocolate Bars 

• Espresso Dark Chocolate
• Milk Chocolate
• Mocha Milk Chocolate
• Orange Dark Chocolate
• Dark Chocolate
• Super Dark Chocolate-70% Cocoa

Oh, the gourmet chocolate bars from Newman's Own Organics...where do I even begin?!  Newman's Own Organics have created a variety of flavors for their Signature Series of gourmet chocolates made from the finest organic cocoa beans grown on Rainforest Alliance certified farms.  With the variety of bars available, you are sure to find a chocolate to suit your liking with Newman's Own Organics.  I enjoyed these so much that I think these have single-handedly been the cause of me not losing the last 8 pounds of my baby weight, but well worth it!

Newman O's 

• Chocolate Creme
• Hint-o-mint
• Peanut Butter

And last, but certainly not the least, are the Newman O's (clever name right?!).  These cookies are chocolate creme filled chocolate cookies, creme filled mint cookies and peanut butter filled cookies...and it doesn't get any better than these!  Made with the finest organic ingredients and without hygrogenated oils and trans-fatty acids, these cookies will be a big hit in your home.  Try them alone or dip them in a glass of milk.  Crumble them over the top of your favorite ice cream.  They are delicious!  To check out their 6 different flavors, click here.

I want to say a special thank you to Newman's Own Organics for giving my family this great opportunity to review what they (and heaven) have to offer for review.  You really cannot go wrong when choosing one of Newman's Own Organics products.  They are made with the best of ingredients without the nasty fillers and by-products you find in regular snacks.

Buy it: 
You can purchase Newman's Own Organics products online here or at any participating grocery stores.  To view stores in your area, click here.  For those of you who this applies to, Newman's Own Organics have many foods to accommodate food sensitivities.

Win it:

Newman's Own Organics is graciously giving away my family's four favorite products we reviewed:

• Fig Newmans/low fat
• Newman-O's Chocolate Creme Filled Chocolate Cookies
• Alphabet Cookies-Cinnamon Graham
• Berry Blend Dried Fruit

Open to US residents only.

To Enter:

***REMEMBER: POST A COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY***

***Also, remember to leave your email address with your comments so you can be reached*** 

Subscribe to my blog (located on the left side of my home page) and tell me your favorite Newman's Own product.  This is MANDATORY to enter the giveaway.

You also have the opportunity for additional entries (one each) if you do any of the following:

• follow The Curious Case of Mommyhood on Google Follower
• grab my blog button and share (please post link)  
• tell me if you currently by food products made for those with food sensitivities
  
• like The Curious Case of Mommyhood on Facebook
• like Newman's Own Organics on Facebook
• repost this giveaway on your facebook page and post the link with your entry
• follow The Curious Mommy on Twitter
• tell me something else about Newman's Own Organic products

Again, please be sure to leave your email address with each entry.

You have until September 16th at midnight to enter.

Good luck to you all,

Mommy Bridget 

Newman's Own Organic food products were provided to me by Newman's Own Organics PR for review.  All opinions on the products are purely my own (please see my disclosure on my "Reviews" page for more information).  

Awesome Blueberries (Muffins...that is)

I tested a gluten free/dairy free recipe from the cookbook, the Kid-Friendly Food Allergy Cookbook by Leslie Hammond and Lynne Marie Rominger.  Because it is the best tasting muffin I've ever had, I knew it was necessary to share it with all of you.  Keep in mind that you can make it with dairy and gluten products if you like.  The recipes in this cookbook are made for anyone with food allergies so it gives substitutions that work.  Here you go:

Awesome Blueberries

• 4 ounces dairy free cream cheese (such as Tofutti)
• 2 cups brown or white rice flour
• 1 1/4 cup dairy free sour cream
• 2 ts. vanilla
• 3 eggs
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 ts. salt
• 1/4 ts. ground cinnamon
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 cups blueberries

1. In a mixer, whirl the cream cheese on medium speed until it crumbles into pieces.  Add the flour and mix on low; then increase to medium speed for 30 seconds.  Add the sour cream, vanilla, and the eggs; mix well.  Scrape down sides.  Add the baking powder, salt and cinnamon.  pour the sugar over and mix briefly.  Add the blueberries and stir by hand.
2. Spray muffin pan with non-stick cooking spray.  Fill muffin tins and bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes or until firm.  Let cool before you remove from pan.

Enjoy!

Mommy Bridget

Cry it out (CIO): 10 reasons why it is not for us

I recently came across a new blog that I really like. It's called PhD in Parenting...exploring the art and science of parenting. Below is a great post of her take on the CIO controversy but supported, very well I might add, by great sources. I was so happy to read this since it reinforces my belief, despite my lack of sleep these days, that letting your baby cry until it literally passes out is harmful to your little one on so many levels. I once read that Richard Ferber, with the "Ferber Method" of CIO, has since then retracted his belief that it is okay to let your baby cry based on new scientific evidence that it is harmful. I could be wrong, and if I had the time I would dig a little deeper to source this for you all but I don't. Anyways, please check out this great blog post by a great writer!

Cry it out (CIO): 10 reasons why it is not for us

Help Stop Congress from Weakening the Clean Air Act

AMERICAN LUNG ASSOCIATION RELEASES NEW TELEVISION AD TO THWART CONGRESSIONAL ATTACKS ON THE CLEAN AIR ACT

WASHINGTON, D.C. –The American Lung Association has released a television advertisement today in an effort to thwart Congressional attempts to weaken the Clean Air Act.  This effort is part of the Lung Association’s Healthy Air Campaign to preserve the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) authority to implement and enforce this forty-year-old, landmark public health law.  The provocative new ad focuses on the devastating effects of air pollution and its impact on the health of children, while bringing a sense of urgency to the debate over cleaner air. 

Every day, millions of Americans suffer from the toll of toxic air in the form of asthma attacks, heart attacks, strokes and even premature death.  Right now, some in Congress and special interests are trying to stop the cleanup of toxic mercury air pollution; they are encouraging the EPA to ignore scientific evidence that smog harms health and can even cause premature death and they are erroneously claiming that it’s too costly for big polluters to install modern pollution controls.

Since late 2010, the American Lung Association has led a coalition of health and medical organizations as part of the Healthy Air Campaign to raise awareness about the serious health consequences of rolling back clean air policies.  According to a bipartisan survey conducted by the Lung Association in June of this year, the American people support its fight for healthier air: an overwhelming 75 percent of voters support the EPA and its efforts to update standards for life-threatening air pollutants, while 68 percent feel that EPA scientists, not Congress, should set air pollution standards.

In a video posted today on YouTube addressing Americans nationwide, American Lung Association president and CEO, Charles D. Connor remarked: “For over 40 years, the Clean Air Act has helped keep America’s air healthy and safe.  But now, it’s under attack...here’s the truth: If we weaken the Clean Air Act, millions of children and adults will suffer asthma and heart attacks, strokes and even premature death.” 

The ad released today, which will run on network and cable television, features a red baby carriage with sounds of a child suffering respiratory distress that are heard while the red carriage is seen in front of iconic D.C. landmarks including the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol.  The voiceover of the ad states the following:  “Congress can’t ignore the facts.  More pollution means more childhood asthma attacks.  Log on to LungUSA.org and tell Washington: Don’t weaken the Clean Air Act.” 

“Members of Congress must know that any vote against clean air policies and ignoring the health of our children is unacceptable,” said Peter Iwanowicz, assistant vice president with the American Lung Association. “Using public health as a pawn in a political fight to maintain the support of big polluters is abhorrent, and once they find out what is taking place we don’t think the public will stand by while their Member of Congress votes to eliminate safeguards.”

The television advertisement represents the latest education and outreach effort in the American Lung Association’s Healthy Air Campaign.  The campaign has mobilized more than 1,800 medical professionals and 500 organizations, representing all 50 states, to support the Clean Air Act.  The Campaign expects to be very active during the upcoming August recess.

The Clean Air Act has had strong bipartisan support for the past 40 years.  In 2010 alone, enforcing the Clean Air Act is estimated to have prevented 160,000 premature deaths.

Polluting Democracy | Greenpeace USA

Polluting Democracy | Greenpeace USA

For those of you interested in knowing whether your political representatives are for cleaner energy or not, Greenpeace created a report listing the members of congress who support pollution.

~Curious Mommy as always

Prefense Review and Giveaway-ends 7/29

Prefense Review and Giveaway-ends 7/29

We all know as parents how important it is to keep our hands clean and our children's hands clean from those pesty germs that seem to get passed around so easily among our children.  Since we aren't capable of washing our hands after every time we touch a grocery cart or a door handle, it can get quite difficult protecting ourselves.  I don't know about your family but mine has hand sanitizer with us at all times.  And I must say that it's done a great job keeping my family healthy.  But have you ever noticed how all hand sanitizers are made with alcohol, leaving your hands dreadfully dry?  Luckily, Prefense has the solution.  Prefense is a water based hand sanitizer that's not only alcohol free but also leaves your hands feeling soft and protected.

Prefense is:

• alcohol free
• toxin/poison free
• safe for kids to use
• easy to apply

Prefense contains:

• Amosilq (Benzalkonium Chloride/Silica Complex)
• water
• Cocamidopropyl betaine
• essential oil
• citric acid

None of the above ingredients are shown to rate high for toxicity based on the Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep Cosmetic Database (which by the way is a fantastic source if you are ever wondering how safe a product is).  

Prefense is a really great product that keeps your family protected from dangerous germs, especially during the cold and flu season, without the use of alcohol based products over and over again.  Prefense doesn't have to be used as often as other hand sanitizers.  Just one application can protect your hands through 10 hand washings!  Isn't that incredible?  And how are you wondering that's possible?  It's the water and silica based formula that adheres to your skin, forming a strong barrier between you and germs.  There's no other product on the market like it!

Prefense not only offers a foaming hand sanitizer, they also carry hand wipes.

Buy it:

You can purchase Prefense products directly on their web site here or on amazon here.  One 1.5 oz. bottle of the foaming hand sanitizer is $6.99.

Win it:  

Prefense is giving away one 8 oz. bottle of their hand sanitizer, good for up to 2 years or 640 applications to one lucky winner on The Curious Case of Mommyhood!  Open to US residents only.

To enter:

***REMEMBER: POST A COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY***

***Also, remember to leave your email address with your comments so you can be reached*** 

Tell me how you keep your hands clean and protected from the spread of germs.  This is MANDATORY to enter the giveaway.

You also have the opportunity for additional entries (one each) if you do any of the following:

• follow The Curious Case of Mommyhood on Google Follower
• subscribe to my blog
• grab my blog button and share (please post link)  
• tell me something interesting you learned about Prefense
• like The Curious Case of Mommyhood on Facebook
• like Prefense on Facebook
• repost this giveaway on your facebook page and post the link with your entry
• follow The Curious Mommy on Twitter
• follow Prefense on Twitter and let them know you are following them and learned about them from The Curious Case of Mommyhood

Again, please be sure to leave your email address with each entry.

You have until July 29th at midnight to enter.

I want to thank Prefense for the opportunity to do this review.  I really enjoy this product because it helps me keep my family healthy and safe....something we can all appreciate!

Good luck to you all,

Mommy Bridget 

Prefense was provided to me by Prefense for review.  All opinions on the products are purely my own.  I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com created by WebBizIdeas.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Sponsored by Tomoson.com