Why I Would Not Shop a Sample Site for a Wedding

I've noticed lately that a lot of the sample sites have these really cute dresses and suits for children and think how it's such a great deal for those planning a wedding.  The prices are right and the clothing looks cute but one thing I have found with shopping sample sites over the last couple of years is that they don't always deliver.  I've had a few situations, which is a lot considering how much I shop from them, of sheer disappointment.  When I plan our holiday portraits, I like to have my girls wearing similar dresses and of course I need a variety of sizes.  Now that I have a grandchild, I added one more size to the mix.  It's very hard to find sizes 2, 4 and 10 in the same dress.  I have found them in the past but it's labor intensive and can take many hours.  This is why I'm a huge fan of Adorable Baby Clothing, which is an online store, because I can get the sizes I need with just a drop down box and some clicks.

The complaint I have with sample sites is often times when I have ordered, I'm notified after I place my order and weeks later that the order cannot be fulfilled. Other times, I find out that my order was partially processed and that the order couldn't be fulfilled so what I received was the end of my order.  No opportunity to cancel or anything as they have a no return policy.  This happened once when I ordered two dresses for my girls and I only received one which was a huge disappointment.  On another occasion, I ordered a really cute winter coat and was sent a different one from what I ordered.  There have been a few occasions where my order was cancelled due to them not being able to ship.

When I saw all the cute suits showing up for little boys, I thought what a great way to save money and then I remembered the issues I have dealt with.  It would be really sad for a bride-to-be to have everything planned out and then end up in the situations I have been in.  This is one area where I would pay a little more to ensure I get what I want, to have the opportunity for returns and to have one on one customer service.


Check out my giveaways here.

Surviving a Long Road Trip with Kids and #CulturelleKids

Roadtrip!

We embarked on a very long road trip two weeks ago and after logging in more than 64 hours of driving time and crossing Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinios, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Mississippi and Alabama, I can say it was a whirlwind of a trip!  On the first leg of my trip, I had my five and nine year olds with me and they behaved beautifully!  On the return home leg, I had my two little ones along with my oldest who is 24 and her almost two year old.  She also behaved beautifully and I was very lucky after sticking them in a vehicle so long.  

Lots of junk food!

I try to plan ahead and prepare for anything which includes being able to predict what might happen.  I know we won't be eating like we normally would and we would indulge a bit so I have found that traveling with kids can be tricky especially if one or more has a public bathroom phobic as mine do.  As you can see in the picture above, we had some fun in our packed hotel room joined by my nieces and cousins.  I packed water, children's pain and fever reducer, juice and this time, I tried Culterelle Kids! to see if that would help for those occasional tummy problems caused by an upset digestive system.  My kids are very sensitive and I know between being stuck in a car, changing their eating habits and their bathroom phobia, that I needed to try what I could to help them be comfortable and pain free.

See?  Lots of Water!

Our regiment consisted of ensuring they had plenty of water, drank some juice in between and supplemented one juice with one packet of the Culterelle Kids!  It seemed to do the trick as no one had any digestive issues along the way.  It's probably why everyone was so good!  Taking road trips is something I didn't get to do growing up so being able to take my kids across the country is fun and educational.  We also visited a lot of family and we met some family for the first time.  Going on vacation can be challenging with children but I think when you think of the different scenarios that your children normally encounter and offset those by being prepared, it makes for a more enjoyable time for all.

About Culturelle Kids!

 

Culterelle Kids! helps to support the body's natural defenses and provides a solution for digestive discomfort and poor health. Since it boosts digestive health, it aids in overall health and immunity and provides ongoing maintenance and helps to strengthen health and well being.  It's also recommended by pediatricians which draws me more to Culterelle Kids! from a safety perspective.

I liked that Culterelle Kids! comes in chewable tablets and convenient packets.  The packets are for children weighing 25 to 50 pounds and can be mixed in cool food or drink. A child can have up to seven packs a day to help with digestive discomfort. The chewables are for kids over 50 pounds to 100 pounds.  


Disclaimer:  I was compensated for this post and provided with Culturelle samples.  All opinions provided are my own. 

WeightLossGuru Day 1 Prepping @petecohen_

I'm getting close to being home after a whirlwind cross country driving trip for a new job and visiting numerous family members.  I'm excited to get back to start my Day 1 with the WeightLossGuru program with Pete Cohen.  I just watched the Day 1 video and can say that I'm excited to start and Pete is definitely motivating.  I did start using the online journal as I find it useful to have the journal no matter where I'm at and not have to worry about losing it.  I started writing this the other day and now I'm at home and ready to go after being away for two weeks.  I'm starting Day 1 officially tomorrow and I'm watching the tools to get prepped.

My cousin Ruth (the shorter one hee hee) and I

There are definitely key aspects to the WeightLoss Guru program.  I think the video tools definitely help since it seems like Pete is talking directly to you.  He is very motivating and has that English accent which is a double bonus. Everything contained in the tools are definitely tools that will help you meet a weight loss goal.  Tomorrow is Day !

Check out my other giveaways here.

Hawis Satchel bag giveaway 9/13 - US/Canada

Welcome to the Hawis Satchel bag giveaway! 

Below you can enter to win your own supply of Hawis Satchel handbag from Bag Blaze!  This is such a cute bag and perfect for starting back to school if you are in school or just to have.  One lucky person will win this beautiful Hawis Satchel bag. This is open to the US and Canada only (no P.O. Boxes) from August 12 at 12:01 am EST and ends September 13 at 12:01 am EST. 

To enter, simply fill out the Rafflecopter form below. Open to US and Canada residents only (no PO Boxes).  Winner will have 48 hours to respond to my email or a new winner will be drawn. Only valid entries will count.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck and if you win from my blog, please let me know!

Disclaimer: Nita’s Random Thoughts is not responsible for any damage or loss of item and not liable to replace the item once it is received by the post office or shipping company.  Health, Beauty, Children and Family is not responsible for prize fulfillment. Check out my other giveaways here.

LeapFrog LeapsterGS Explorer Giveaway - Worldwide 8/31

It's back to school time and time for some fun learning.  Learning doesn't have to be boring and in many ways, it can be a lot of fun.  When you combine technology with learning, you are sure to find kids that love that combination.  The LeapFrog LeapsterGS Explorer is a perfect gaming system that delivers high-quality gaming and fast-paced action but in a kid tough design.  It also can snap pictures and videos with its built in camera and recording holding up to 2 GB with it's memory.  It also has a new motion sensor and kids ages 4 to 9 can explore a library of more than 300 LeapFrog downloadable appls and games.

What's Included:

• LeapsterGS handheld device
• Quick Start CD
• Parent guide
• USB cable
• Stylus
• 3 apps

To Enter:

Please use the Rafflecopter form below.

Giveaway is open worldwide but for those outside the US, they will receive a $70 Amazon gift card (any winner can choose between the two).

The event dates: August 12 - August 31

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Disclaimer:  Health, Beauty, Children and Family is the sponsor of this giveaway and the opinions expressed in this giveaway are theirs.

Check out my other giveaways here.

$50 AdorableBabyClothing.com Gift Certificate Giveaway 8/31

Whether it's a special occasion, pictures or every day, there are beautiful clothes at Adorable Baby Clothing.  It's an online store with a personal shopping experience due to the customer service provided.  The owner strives for 100% customer satisfaction and does all she can for the customer.  I have had many purchases from Adorable Baby Clothing and have never had a bad sale.  The clothes may cost a little more than what you might pick up at a discount store but the quality cannot be matched.  These are heirloom quality clothes that can be passed on from generation to generation and I should know because I have already passed on numerous dresses to my youngest daughter and now my grandchild.

There are more than special occasion clothing as well, as Adorable Baby Clothing carries baby gifts, every day clothing and more such as Le Top, tutus and personalized clothing.

Not only does the customer service and quality bring me back but so does the ability to shop for various sizes with ease.  I used to spend hours in stores trying to find two to three different sizes of the same dresses for my girls.  I would find one size but not the other which was very frustrating.  At Adorable Baby Clothing, it's as easy as finding the dress I want and using the drop down menu to pick the sizes I want.  From infant to size 12, it's a one stop shopping experience for me.

Holiday C

Holiday A

Holiday B

Adorable Baby Clothing offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee and free shipping on orders over $40 in the US.

Dyson DC24 All-Floors Lightweight Upright Vacuum Giveaway 8/31 - US/Canada

Mom Powered Media proudly presents the Dyson DC24 Giveaway

Dyson "The Ball" DC24 Vacuum
Impress yourself with your beautiful floors when you use the Dyson DC24 All-Floors Lightweight Upright Vacuum. Ultra lightweight and compact makes vacuuming with this machine effortless. The Dyson "Ball" technology turns the vacuum on a dime with no loss of suction, combined with the patented Root Cyclone technology makes this one extreme powerhouse of clean.  I've always wanted a Dyson so if you win and are from my blog, let me knwo!

Dyson "The Ball" DC24 All-Floors Lightweight Upright Vacuum Includes:

• Bristle brush
• Product manual

Product Features:

• Clear hygienic dust collection bin - empty the bin with a push of a button
• Lifetime washable HEPA filter - requires no maintenance and lasts for the life of the vacuum
• Fingertip brush control - turn brushbar on and off at the touch of a button
• Motorized brushbar - powerful bristles remove dirt and pet hair from carpets
• On-board tool storage - brush, stair and crevice tools store right on your vacuum so they're always on hand
• Reversible wand - for dual usage
• On-board tool storage - brush, stair and crevice tools store right on your vacuum so they're always on hand
• Certified Asthma and Allergy Friendly by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America

ABOUT DYSON

Many vacuums use filters to trap dirt, which can cause clogs and suction problems. But Dyson, maker of the world's first cyclonic bagless vacuum, features technology that uses centrifugal force to separate dirt out of the airflow, so the vacuum doesn't clog. Dyson proves no loss of suction using the IEC 60312 Cl 2.9 test standard. As the only vacuum to be certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America and featuring Clean Exhaust Air, it's easy to see why Dyson is an excellent choice for all your floor surfaces.

Glass Handbag Giveaway Event $900 Value 9/10 - Worldwide

Welcome to the Glass Handbag Event!

Giveaway sponsored by Glass Handbags.

Hosted by Jenn’s Blah Blah Blog and Diva Fabulosa.

Special thanks to our wonderful co-hosts: Pink Ninja Blogger, What's Up? Contest, Freebies and Everything Nice, Live Laugh Love To Shop,

There's a Contest for That, Leira Pagaspas, Slickhousewives, and Simply Shawn & Jenn

What a great opportunity to win an amazing looking handbag!  Before we know it, Christmas will be here so might as well get ready for the family gatherings and parties! 

About our sponsor: Have you heard of Glass Handbag? These handbags are amazing, seriously different from the rest. So what exactly makes these handbags so amazing? These handbags are luxury designer handbags, with an integrated light system,

functional designer lighted handbag that offers a fashionable look for anyone. These handbags are hand-made by extremely skillful craftsman in 3 different areas: Leather, Hardware and Electronics. These fabulous lights take up no space, have low power consumption, are moisture resistant, extremely flexible, and long lasting battery life, up to 25,000 hours. Each handbag also comes with a patented glow that you won’t see in any other handbag. The glow is the Glass Handbag light, a striking feature that cannot be found anywhere else. These patented lights are thin, take up no space, low power consumption, and very flexible. When you buy a Glass Handbag you can rest assured that you are buying only the best handbag on the market. 

The top brand handbag selection includes:

• Beautiful Leather Handbags
• Shimmering Gold Purses
• Glamorous Crystal Clutches
• Radiant Jewel Patent Satchels
• Stylish and Roomy Duffel Bags.
• Each handbag comes with a Glass Handbag gift box, and FREE Shipping.

Details:

• Dates: 8/10/2012 12:01 (EST) until 9/10/2012 at 11:59pm (EST)
• Open worldwide
• 18 +
• Winner chooses their own handbag, up to $900 value.

Yes ladies, you choose your prize, I told you Glass Handbags is amazing because it’s ran by amazing people. ($900 value)

Loading Entry-Form...

Disclosure: Health, Beauty, Children and Family did not accept compensation for this event, nor is it responsible for shipment of prize. Prize will be shipped by sponsor of the event. Check out my other giveaways here.

Beezer Playhouse Giveaway $159.99 ARV - 8/22 - US

Beezer Playhouses are perfect for kids who love imaginative indoor play! Each playhouse comes with a variety of letters, numbers, and accessories that offer a personal touch.  This would make the perfect back to school surprise for your little one or if you have a birthday coming up!

Beezer Playhouses are cute, durable, and interactive with plastic windows and a strong plastic door frame.  The double thickness cardboard door features a fun doorknob that is easy for kids to turn and plastic hinges which make the door far stronger and more durable than any other cardboard playhouse.  

WIN IT!

One lucky reader will win a playhouse from Beezer Playhouse ($159.99 ARV) for their kids! Giveaway is open in the US and ends on August 22 at 11:59 PM EST.

a Rafflecopter giveaway 

*Disclaimer:  Health, Beauty, Children and Family is not responsible for prize fulfillment.  Good luck!

Check out my other giveaways here.

Mom Blog Society $50 Target GC Giveaway 8/22 - US

Simple Addiction is committed to bring you the lowest prices on the hottest boutique items. Who said you couldn't save money while spending money? Their selected vendors offer items 50-80% off retail prices because of the volume Simple Addiction provides. Items are offered for 36 hours only to keep our inventory fresh and it’s just exciting to watch the clock countdown!

The Simple Addiction deal site is simple. When the new sales begin you will 36 hours from the opening of that event before it closes and the items are no longer available. On occasion they also sell out quickly; so for those of you like me who love boutique at bargain prices, you want to make sure to subscribe their newsletter {found on the right hand side of the home page}.

My favorite Simple Addiction item from today's sale. The Family Rules sign measures 11.5 x 23 inches, is keyholed and ready to hang. A perfect addition to your home or to give as a gift. Personalization free upon request!

One lucky winner will receive $50 Target Gift Card.

Hosted by Mom Blog Society

Co-hosted by Central Texas Mom, Imperfect Women, Mom Does Reviews, Powered By Mom and Mom to Bed by 8

Giveaway ends August 22nd at 11:59pm, open to US residents only, ages 18+. To enter please use the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!

Soylicious Melter Gems & $100 Visa Giveaway 8/22 - US/Canada

Soylicious premium soy bean wax candles and tart chunks are made from two types of American grown soybeans, with natural botanical oils added to give them vibrant colors and a creamy texture. Along with their soy soap, room sprays, and electric tart melters you are sure to find something to Satisfy your Senses! Soylicious products are backed by a 100% Satisfaction guarantee!

Soylicious provides a wide range of opportunities for their customers:

1. Easy of online purchasing through Soylicious.com
2. Home parties, basket/binder party and online e-shows earning the hostess free products!
3. Consultant opportunity: Low start up cost only .99 cents. No minimum purchase requirements. Reasonably priced products. Earn top commission and discounts from the start.

A ring in every 22 oz. package!

Worth $10 - $50 - $100 - $500 or even $1000

What are Melter Gems? They are crystals that have been colored and infused with high quality fragrance oil. You place about 1/4 cup in a Glazed or Glass top melter/warmer. They release fragrance much faster then waiting for wax to melt. Within just minutes your entire home will be filled with your favorite fragrance. Want to change fragrances, just pour out the Melter Gems in your melter, quick wipe with a paper towel, put in new fragrance.

One lucky winner will receive a Soylicious Full Size Warmer, 22oz package of Melter Gems and $100 Visa Gift Card.

Hosted by Mom to Bed by 8, Powered By Mom and Real Mom Reviews.

Giveaway ends August 22nd at midnight eastern, open to US and Canadian residents only, ages 18+. To enter please use the Rafflecopter form below. If you win from my blog, let me know and good luck!

Bagluxe Handbag Giveaway Event 8/20 - 5 Winners US/Canada

Hosted by Bella Savvy

Co-hosted by Momtobedby8, Powered By Mom, Couponing 4 You, Two Classy Chics, A Spectacled Owl, News Wahl, and Hott Mama in the City.

Bagluxe, a specialty online retailer of fashion-forward chic, affordable handbags, purses and accessories (influenced by the latest runway and celebrity trends) knows that every girl has a passion. Well, Bagluxe has a passion too... it's handbags, of course!  Their website features a wide range selection of fashion handbags and related accessories -- all priced at under $85.00. The company aims to build a trusting relationship with women who love handbags by ensuring superior customer service and offering quality, inexpensive products that are always on-trend.

Who doesn't want to carry a great looking bag especially if you can win one!  What's even better is that five will win!  Now, I don't win very many giveaways so if you win from my blog, please let me know.

READY TO WIN ONE OF THOSE FASHIONABLE BAGS? I KNOW YOU DO!

PRIZES:

FIVE lucky ladies will each receive a trendy handbag from Bagluxe (one featured bag OR a $50 Bagluxe gift card) -- $250 value

EVENT DATES: August 6, 2012 - August 20, 2012

Open to US & Canadian residents, ages 18 and over.

To enter, please use the rafflecopter form below. And don't forget to come back daily to gain additional entries. The more entries you have, the better your odds of winning.

~ A huge thank you to the lovely bloggers who are helping to promote this fabulous giveaway! ~

a Rafflecopter giveaway 


Check out my other giveaways here.

Zooper Twist Giveaway ($199 Value) 8/27 US/Canada

The Zooper Twist is a lightweight umbrella stroller perfect for those looking for something small, but still stylish and comfortable! The Twist is super lightweight, and super easy to fold. It was engineered to provide maximum comfort for the rider, and to be easy to push, even with a heavy load over uneven urban landscapes. The Twist is car seat compatible so can be used the second your little one is born! The Twist- while made like an umbrella stroller is so much more. The handles sit at 41 inches, so it is perfect for mom and dad. The seat is 13 inches wide,which is way wider than any other umbrella stroller on the market. The 5 point harness, canopy that goes all the way down and plush fabric make riding comfortably super easy for your child! The Twist also has four different recline features and an adjustable foot rest!

Product Features

• Comes with- sun shade, foot muff, plastic cup holder, and infant carrier security strap.
• Suitable for newborns and toddlers up to 55 pounds.
• Lightweight umbrella fold stroller.
• Large spacious foot muff to keep baby guarded from rain, wind and the cold.
• Quick release front wheels with one touch auto swivel lock.

Buy It: You can purchase a Zooper Twist for 199.99! 


Win It: Zooper has offered one lucky reader a Zooper Twist stroller in either Mountain Flowers, Ocean Blue, Canyon Red, or Flax Brown fabric!

   

Special thanks to Mom To Bed By 8, Real Mom Reviews and Powered By Mom for hosting this giveaway. Giveaway ends August 27th at 11:59pm, open to US and Canadian residents, ages 18+. 


To enter please use the Rafflecopter form below.  If you win from my blog, please let me know and good luck!

Vera Bradley Travel Set Giveaway US/Canada 8/12

Welcome to the Vera Bradley Travel Set Giveaway

Hosted by Giveaway Promote.
Sponsored by RockStarMomLV.

RockStarMomLV is a luxury travel and lifestyle resource dedicated to highlighting events, people and places on the Las Vegas Strip and community that appeals to the sophisticated local and tourist, with or without their little entourage.©

---

Enter to win this Vera Bradley Travel Set.

One person will win this Vera Bradley travel duffel, satchel and matching umbrella in the Doodle Daisy pattern.

Includes: The Grand Traveler ($120 ARV), The Hipster ($60 ARV), and Umbrella ($34 ARV)

This giveaway is open in the United States and Canada. It will end at 11:59pm EST on August 12th, 2012.  Good luck and if you win from my blog, please let me know!

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

Bloggers, join a group giveaway event like this one! Sign up to be emailed about future events hosted by Giveaway Promote.

If you'd like to hear about all group giveaway and hop events open for blogger sign-ups, subscribe to Giveaway Promote's weekly group giveaway events and hops newsletter.

Check out my other giveaways here.

Phillips Norelco Pro Body Groomer Giveaway #Bodygroom @ShaveExperts 8/15

Men's Pro Body Groomer Giveaway brought to you by jenny at dapperhouse & Koupon Krazed

Thanks to the Shave Experts, you have the opportunity to enter this giveaway to win a
Phillips Norelco Pro Body Groomer for all your trimming and shaving needs.  The man in your life will love this!!   This is an excellent product with above average features and ratings. You can read all about it HERE on the product review and get excited about winning this awesome giveaway!  And go HERE for all Product features.

The Pro Body Groomer sells for an average of $50 - $70 at various retailers and worth every penny!

This giveaway begins on Aug 6th and ends on Aug 15th and remember to come back daily to get more entries in to WIN!

** It is important to remember to check your spam & junk mail on Aug 16th in case you WIN**

Good luck and if you win from my blog, Health, Beauty, Children and Family, let me know!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Disclaimer - Must be 18 years or older to participate in this giveaway. Facebook and Twitter are in no way sponsoring this event and entries for facebook and twitter are not mandatory but voluntary. None of the blogs posting and participating in the promotion of this Pro Groomer Giveaway are responsible for picking the winners, contacting winners or mailing the prize. jenny at dapperhouse will secure the winner and the sponsor will send the prize to the winner.

Check out my other giveaways here.