Rave and Review

Pouch Carrier Cover from Rain or Shine Kids {Review & Giveaway}

While we’ve had a bit of a mild winter here in the Pacific Northwest so far, it looks like winter is going to hit us pretty hard in the next few weeks.  Taking other years into account, this means that we are likely looking forward to months and months of ice, freezing temperatures, and snow in our future.  While most of us have snow gear and down jackets we can slip on, the problem becomes what you can do to keep the littlest ones warm during freezing temperatures.  The answer, of course, is Rain or Shine Kids, our favorite Seattle brand. 

We’ve raved about their Woobee blanket that kept our daughter from freezing in our trip across Spain and Morocco, we’ve adored their UPF Sun Blanket that helped protect our little guy from sun, wind, and rain, and we’ve recommended the Fleece Blanket for all the weather in between, but now they’ve got a brand new line of Pouch Carrier Covers that we are crazy about.  Designed to keep your little one toasty while rolling, strolling, or sledding, the cover is the perfect thing to place over your baby carrier, your stroller, your car seat, or even in the event of a snowstorm, your sled.

We got to check out this new line at the ABC Kids show in September and thought it was truly brilliant, so we were thrilled when one arrived at our doorstep right before the cold hit.  Now that the weather has taken a dip, the Rain or Shine Kids Pouch Carrier Cover has gotten quite the workout over the top of the ERGO baby carrier.  When the weather dipped even further and the snow began to fall, we loved using the cover right over the top of our Mountain Boy Bambino Grande Pull Sled, keeping the little one toasty warm even while the flakes were falling.

Like everything made by Rain or Shine Kids, the design of the Pouch Carrier Cover is truly outstanding.  With the signature Woobee weatherproof cover paired with their super soft lining, it looks just like the Woobee we love, but with some important differences.  Instead of a flat perimeter as with traditional blankets, the bottom half of the Pouch Carrier Cover is gathered with an elastic hem, creating a pocket that your little one’s lower half is enveloped in.  Then, ¾ of the way up the cover, they included coordinating grosgrain ribbon to tie to baby carriers, strollers, car seats, wagons and more. 

Quality details throughout and extra features will make this the only cover you will ever use.  For instance, my favorite feature: the front kangaroo pocket for your hands {while front carrying} or your child’s {while strolling, rolling, sledding}.  This was great during our daily snow walks where I couldn't wear gloves and take pictures, and also served as a warm and dry place to hold onto the camera in between shots. 

I also love that Rain or Shine Kids included snaps tabs on the sides and the undersides that you can connect if you’ve got too much fabric and reduce bulk while providing the coziest environment possible.  Not only does this help keep the cover fitted to whatever carrier or seat you're using, it is also so incredibly snugglable that you will never want to take your babe out.

While I have focused the review on how great this is for babies {and the people that carry them}, this adjustable nature makes it a cover that is not easily outgrown. It is so adaptable that our three year old can still use it if she tucks up her legs and our 1 year old fits in it with room to spare, as you can see below. 

We’ve used it numerous times throughout the past few weeks and it’s now a fixture on our days out for keeping the little ones cozy in the car, in the stroller, the carrier, or just about anywhere else.  We love it so much that we always have it ready, which is great because we're going to be needing it around here well into June!

Find out more about the Pouch Carrier Cover from Rain or Shine Kids as well as the rest of the Woobee family at rainorshinekids.com

One lucky Rave and Review reader will win a Rain or Shine Kids Pouch Carrier Cover of their very own!

To Enter: Visit Rain or Shine Kids and let me know what other item of theirs you have your eye on.

And, as always, there are extra entries available!  {Please leave a separate comment for each completed}

1 Extra Entry - Post on your Facebook wall about the giveaway {http://t.co/Ij0SzYCT} and tag Rain or Shine Kids and R&R on Facebook

1 Extra Entry - Like Rain or Shine Kids on Facebook

2 Extra Entries {per method} - Follow Rave & Review! Subscribe by RSS feed, Subscribe by email, become a fan of R&R on Facebook or add R&R to your blogroll or sidebar.

1 Extra Entry {daily} - Twitter.  Simply tweet the following after following us both:

I want to keep cozy with the awesome @RainOrShineKids Baby Carrier Cover! Enter the #giveaway from @RaveAndReview http://t.co/Ij0SzYCT

2 Extra Entries - Blogger Bonus.  Blog about this giveaway linking back to this post and leave an address where I can find your writeup

1 Extra Entry - Comment love.  Enter any of my other Giveaways and/or comment on any non-giveaway post!

On February 28th at 11:59pm PST a winner will be drawn, announced here and notified via email.  Winner will have 48 hours to contact me or a new winner will be chosen. US addresses only.

The Rain or Shine Pouch Carrier Cover for review and the giveaway were offered at no charge to us.  All opinions remain 100% ours and no form of monetary compensation was received in exchange for this very Rave Review.

aacua 4-in-1 Bath Wrap by maamam {Review & Giveaway}

Is there anything cuter than a little one straight out of the bath?  I would say yes, a babe wrapped in an aacua towel.  The aacua towel was the first release from maamam LLC, a San Francisco-based company that everyone is buzzing about for its vibrant and innovative baby products.  After trying the aacua towel out these past few weeks, I can honestly say that it’s pretty genius.

Summertime for our family means a whole lot of time spent in water.  Whether we are at the beach, the pool, or simply in the tub after a long day of playing outside, water is the one common factor.  Of course when you have water you also need towels, and that’s where the aacua comes in.  Unlike bathrobes that are silly and impractical for small babes, or large towels that are bulky and hard to secure around a wriggling babe, the aacua is not only perfect for babies, it also grows with your child to toddlerhood. 

Although it is cute a modern, don’t let its minimalistic design fool you.  In addition to growing with your child from baby on up, the aacua bath wrap truly is 4-in-1.  That’s because it is more than a towel, more than a robe, and more than an apron for mom and dad - it’s all these and more.

No matter how old your babe is, the aacua always starts the same, as an absorbent terry cloth apron for you.  You simply attach the ring around your neck and secure the sides around your body and it does a great job of protecting your clothing from any splashes or shenanigans.  Then, when babe is clean, the aacua quickly transforms to a cozy baby cocoon, a towel, or an adorable hooded bath wrap depending on your child’s age. 

Since my kids are 9 month and 3 years, I got to try out two of these configurations and loved both of them for both kids.  For my daughter, I simply place the hood over her head and then she can slip her hands out the side slits and Velcro the towel around her easily.  For my son, I slip my hands through the side slits, grab him from the water, and immediately envelope him in towel right up against my chest to keep him warm and help dry him off in the best way possible – with a hug from mom and dad.

If I was leaving him in the aacua for cuddles, I could also transform it into a towel cocoon by velcroing the ring around the wrap to hold it all together.  While I wouldn’t wrap my son at home like this since the nursery is right across from the bathroom, I really wish I would have had the aacua on our recent family vacation when my son spent hours wriggling out of bulky beach towels while snuggling family members poolside.  If we had been able to wrap him like this right out of the pool, he would have been one deliriously happy little guy all snug and warm in a towel cocoon. 

As with a standard terry cloth towel, the aacua is easy to clean in the washer and dryer, and actually gets softer as you use it.  The only thing to note is that it does have Velcro tabs sewn in, so don’t launder the aacua with delicate items that might snag easily.  If this was a concern, making sure each tab is connected to its corresponding color tab would do the trick, or even a washing bag. 

Price: $42.  Even though it is quite a bit more expensive than a cheap baby towel, I would highly recommend the PTPA Award Winning aacua for its amazing ability to grow with your child and offer a practical toweling solution for every age - even baby dolls!

http://www.maamam.com/

One lucky winner will win an awesome maamam aacua 4-in-1 Towel of their own! 

To enter simply visit Maamam.com and tell me something you learned about the company or a product you love

 And, as always, there are extra entries available!

1) Subscribe to Rave and Review, top of right sidebar (2 extra entries, must be verified to count)

2) Tweet about this Giveaway after following us both (daily Tweet, just post link here)

Enter to #win a 4-in-1 aacua towel from @MaamamLLC and @raveandreview. Read their #ravereview and #giveaway: http://t.co/1XkCSCX

3) "Like" maamam on Facebook or subscribe to their YouTube channel

4) Blog about this Giveaway with links back to this post as well as the www.raveandreview.com homepage (2 extra entries, just post the URL where I can find your writeup)

5) Place my button in your sidebar on your blog or website  (2 extra entries, must have an active link to R&R)

6) Comment love.  Enter any of my other Giveaways and/or comment on any non-giveaway post!

7) Email love.  Share this Giveaway with friends and family via email and cc Leanne (at)raveandreview (dot) com (I will never, ever contact your email recipients)

8) NEW!  "Like" Rave and Review on Facebook! {3 extra entries}

On September 24th at 11:59pm PST a winner will be drawn, announced here and notified via email.  Winner will have 48 hours to contact me or a new winner will be chosen.  Giveaway open to US Addresses. 

Winner, winner!  This giveaway is now closed!  Thank you to all who entered and congrats to

#14 lia Keller said... I learned that they have amazing products and that maamam is a private company that is founded and operated by mothers. (from website)

I received this product for free from the sponsor of the Moms Meet program, May Media Group LLC, who received it directly from the manufacturer.  As a Moms Meet blogger, I agreed to use this product and post my opinion on my blog.  My opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of May Media Group LLC or the manufacturer of the product.

Things Remembered Photo Contest {enter to win $200!}

If you’ve been reading this site for any length of time, you probably already know how I cannot resist a personalized gift.  So, of course I have spent quite a bit of time shopping at Things Remembered, the mother of all personalization stores.  Whether it’s for birthdays, mother’s/father’s day, or holidays, I have purchased numerous gifts at Things Remembered throughout the years and have always been a very happy customer. 

For those unfamiliar with Things Remembered, you should run over to their site {or store} and get familiar, quick.  They pretty much have everything you could ever want that can be engraved or personalized, and are readily available at many local malls as well as online so you can shop easily in person or remotely.   

Of course, I also love receiving presents from Things Remembered.  When I was pregnant with my daughter I received the sweetest present ever from my mother-in-law for Christmas – an engravable silver baby cup with a gift certificate for the engraving that I could use after the baby was here to put her name, birthdate, stats, etc.  I loved it so much that my daughter was only 4 days old when I took that beautiful baby cup down to my local store and had it all the personalization completed. 

When I went to go pick it up, the clerk had wrapped it nicely in a signature box and it was all polished and ready for me to display.  But, even cooler than that is that the person who engraved it for me picked up on a conversation that my husband and I had while ordering it where we mentioned that we would want a script that was gender neutral so we could get a cup for any addition babies we may have, and the clerk had written down the exact specifications of his engraving so that it could be easily duplicated by any store at any point.  Talk about great customer service!  {side note: ordering the same cup for my son was a BREEZE with his detailed notes, and the finished silver cups displayed together are some of my favorite keepsakes ever}

When I heard that Things Remembered was having a great Holiday Photo contest this summer that has $200 up for grabs, I jumped at the chance to enter it and tell you all about it.  I entered with our family picture from 2010, which was our first self-taken picture as a brand new family of four.  It was sent as our holiday greeting card in 2010 because I love it so much and I have thought about framing it to put up each holiday.  When I look at it, it reminds me of those magical first days as we all adjusted to our new roles and our family was complete.  Just thinking about it makes me nostalgic for the holiday season! 

Do you have a favorite holiday picture?  Just go to the Things Remembered Facebook page to enter the Things Remembered Facebook photo contest for a chance to be in their Holiday campaign and win $200.  It was easy to enter and actually kind of fun looking back through my past Christmas pictures with my beautiful babes.  Have fun and good luck!

A big thank you to Things Remembered for sharing the contest information as well as a gift code as a thank you for spreading the word {maybe I should get a frame for this pic?}  As always, all opinions are 100% ours and no form of monetary compensation was received in exchange for this Rave Review.

Huge Sale at Rain or Shine Kids - Get your Super Woobee at 40% Off!

Do you love Rain or Shine Kids as much as I do?  I know from past comments that just about all of you out there would love a Super Woobee blanket as much as I would, so I’m really excited to report that they are now on sale for a whopping 40% off, which is a really awesome deal. 

But the sale doesn’t stop there - From now until July 14th, you can find 20-50% off their entire site so you can get sun covers, plush blankets and more for an incredible discount that’s always in season.  So go on and get yourself that Super Woobee, the Original or Fleece Woobee, or the Woobee Graphic you’ve been eyeing… at the lowest prices I have ever seen. 

Maybe we will finally cave and get that great Seattle Graphic Woobee we both love… or maybe the Paris blanket to remind us of our Europe trip, or the San Fran blanket in honor of the city I was born in, or even the NYC blanket to recognize one of our absolute favorite cities.  No matter which we choose it is bound to become a favorite and get all sorts of compliments when we’re out!

Start shopping at RainOrShineKids.com!

Thank you to Rain or Shine Kids for sharing their sale information.  No form of monetary compensation was received in exchange for this post - we just love this great Seattle company!

Kelty Big Dipper Junior Sleeping Bag "Grows" With Your Child

Get Out and PLAY - Day 14

Getting our kids excited about the great outdoors is something that is a huge priority for us.  Surrounded by mountains, ocean, and miles of forests to explore, enjoying nature is just a way of life here in the Pacific Northwest.  However, loving the great outdoors isn’t easy if you’ve got the wrong gear, so I love that Kelty, the makers of some of the best outdoor gear around, also has a great kid’s line. 

It has been a mission of mine to make sure that my children always have the correct gear so they stay comfortable, safe, and happy no matter what the weather, so I was really thrilled to see that Kelty makes the same high quality gear they are known for just pared down to child size.  Instead of cartoon characters and other unnecessary baubles, their kids’ line looks like real outdoor gear because it is real outdoor gear. 

We got to test out the Kelty Big Dipper 30 Junior Sleeping Bag these past few weeks and saw firsthand all the really cool features that make this bag special.  From pockets, pouches, lining and more, this is certainly a bag that can accommodate your growing child and their growing needs. 

But, your child isn’t the only thing that’s going to be doing some growing; the Big Dipper Sleeping Bag also “grows” right along with your little one.  Kelty understands that we don’t want to pay good money for a sleeping bag that our child is going to grow out of in mere months, which is why they designed a sleeping bag that literally expands right along with your child. 

The Big Dipper “grows” by way of a zippered section at the bottom of the bag which allows you to extend the sleeping bag by a whole 12” whenever you would like with one simple zip.  This zippered extension allows you to keep the bag small for when your child is little, giving them a cozier sized bag with more warmth in the foot area and giving you a much smaller footprint in your family tent.  Instead of wasting money on a toddler bag, and then a child size, this means I can use the same sleeping bag for my little one all the way from pre-K until they are tall enough for an adult bag!

While this child sized bag may be pint sized, but it is certainly not light on features.  Weighing 3 pounds 9 oz, it is easy enough for little ones to carry on their own in the included {attached} stuff sack but still will keep them toasty warm no matter where your travels take you.  With a soft interior that is cozy and warm as well as a good fluffy fill that adds extra padding and cushioning for when you’re really roughing it, your kids are sure to appreciate the added comfort and protection from the elements. 

While you could absolutely use the Big Dipper Sleeping Bag for sleepovers and camp, it is also designed to be used by your most daring explorer as well.  Whether you trek across tundra or simply car camp, the Big Dipper can accommodate your child’s growing needs as well as their growing bodies.  It comes with grown up features like an elasticized hood, baffled zippers with anti-catch fabric, and a stuff pouch on the underside of the hood that allows you to turn a fluffy coat into a comfy pillow, something I really appreciate as it means one less pillow to pack.     

Knowing that your kids have the right gear makes you more likely to get out as a family and create all sorts of great memories.  Whether it’s hiking together, climbing, or traveling as a family, Kelty will make sure that your whole family can truly enjoy the experience.  Kelty gear can help give your children an appreciation of nature long before they are able to walk and keep them begging to get outdoors well into their teens.  With cleverly designed gear that can last for years and even through several children, the Kelty brand is perfect for outfitting your entire family.   

Visit Kelty.com to find out more about their adult or children's line of outdoor gear

 

A big thank you to Kelty who sent the sleeping bag for review.  All opinions are 100% ours and no form of monetary compensation was received in exchange for this Rave Review.

Recycled Cotton Blankets from Twirls & Twigs {Review & Giveaway}

Get Out and PLAY Event - Day 7

I used to think that blankets were kind of boring.  Really, what is there to rave about a piece of fabric and some trim?  It turns out I just needed to find Twirls and Twigs, the makers of some of the most uniquely adorable children's clothing anywhere, because their blankets are definitely rave-worthy.

It's hard not to fall in love with one {or five} of the Twirls and Twigs recycled cotton blankets.  Their quirky patterns, colors and designs, make them some of the cutest and most unique designs I have found anywhere.  With different color prints, contrast stitching, and embroidery paired with textured cotton and designer trim, the combination is beautiful as well as irresistible. 
 
In fact, when faced with a line sheet of all their new releases, I had a really hard time narrowing it down to even my top 5 choices because they all were so uniquely fun and, well, fabulous.  I finally called in the whole family and we decided on the perfect blanket for our little reviewer together – a design called Henry that was so perfect that my sister in law also went out and purchased one that matches in pink for her daughter.

Once our recycled cotton blanket arrived we realized they are more than just great looking, they are also incredibly delightful to snuggle with.  Made proudly in the USA with soft recycled cotton fibers and textures galore, they are super soft and perfect for kiddos to love. 

And, both my little ones fell hard for Henry, the sweet polka dot hedgehog that adorns our bright orange Twirls and Twigs blanket.  Even though they have only been buddies for a few short weeks, my son sleeps so much better when he is snuggling his Henry blanket that it has become absolutely essential for car and stroller rides.  Naptime on the go now depends so heavily upon these snuggles that my daughter finally gave in and reluctantly agreed that Henry could be his special blanket.

Little ones may not care that the recycled pre-consumer fabrics of their Twirls and Twigs blankets are helping to keep unnecessary waste from being discarded in our landfills or that the vibrant colors in their creations are retained from the original fabric pieces which cuts down on the use of harmful dyes and chemicals released into the environment, but they are sure to appreciate the color and the “broken in” feel of the fabrics.  It may be hard to see this in the pictures, but the textures and suppleness of the fabric are simply amazing.  This makes these blankets perfect for little ones to run their hands over while they snuggle in, something our little reviewer does lovingly every time he hugs it. 

With Twirls and Twigs commitment to reducing waste and producing the highest quality products they can, it makes perfect sense why they are an instant favorites for kids and parents alike.  Whether you are looking for sweet, sassy or stylish, Twirls and Twigs has the perfect match. 

Check out their site to see all the different varieties of blankets they carry as well as retailers online and local.  While you are there, be sure to check out their line of clothing to see all the clothing I am dying to get my daughter into.  If you are specifically looking for their recycled blanket for a special little one, you will love that you can even get your favorite Twirls and Twigs blanket personalized if you order direct from Diapers.com.

 
One very lucky Rave and Review reader will win a Twirls and Twigs Recycled Cotton Blanket! 

To Enter: Simply "like" Twirls and Twigs on Facebook and sign up for their email newsletter {top right of website}

And, as always, there are extra entries available!

1) Subscribe to Rave and Review, top of right sidebar (2 extra entries, must be verified to count)

2) Tweet about this Giveaway after following (daily Tweet, just post link here)

I am dying to win an adorable Twirls & Twigs recycled cotton blanket from @raveandreview - enter here http://bit.ly/jd3byj    

3) Blog about this Giveaway with links back to this post as well as the www.raveandreview.com homepage (just post the URL where I can find your writeup)

4) Place my button or logo in your sidebar on your blog or website (2 extra entries, must have an active link to R&R)

5) Comment love.  Enter any of my other Giveaways and/or comment on any non-giveaway post!

6) Email love.  Share this Giveaway with friends and family via email and cc Leanne (at)raveandreview (dot) com (I will never, ever contact your email recipients)

7) NEW!  "Like" Rave and Review on Facebook! (3 entries!)

On June 6th at 11:59pm PST a winner will be drawn via Random.org, announced here and notified via email.  Winner will have 48 hours to contact me or a new winner will be chosen.  Giveaway open to US Address only.

Winner!  This giveaway is now closed.  Thank you to all who entered and congratulations to: #10 Kimberly said... I like you on FB

A big thank you to Twirls and Twigs who provided a sample for review as well as a giveaway to our fabulous readers.  All opinions are 100% ours and no form of monetary compensation was received in exchange for this Rave Review.

 

Pirose for Nursing {and Beyond!}

I’ve tried quite a few nursing covers in my time and quite honestly couldn’t survive breastfeeding without them.  Who wants to leave a party or a good conversation to go sit by themselves and feed their baby?  Not me.  I’d much rather include my baby in everything I’m doing, having them get used to our on-the-go lifestyle and the flexibility that comes from it. 

But, while I love nursing covers, none that I have ever tried have been quite so practical as the Pirose Nursing Cover from Reno Rose, Inc.  Instead of merely offering a discreet place to nurse, it also has numerous different functions from feeding to fashion.  As someone who hates to buy limited lifespan items, I love that the Pirose Nursing Cover can easily be repurposed for a variety of functions and can be used well after the baby stage. 

Since I am nursing now, I am really loving it as a nursing cover for secluded mealtimes.  Besides being gorgeous {and it truly is, I get strangers coming up to me every time I use it asking where I got my scarf not even realizing that I’m using it to nurse}, I adore that it is extremely lightweight and scrunches up in the smallest diaper bag or purse.  In fact, it even comes with a small pouch that I can stuff it in {no folding required} and toss it in my purse for easy storage on the go. 

Although I was really excited about the sheer fabric because of its space-saving properties and how lightweight it is for warmer weather, I was a bit concerned that you might be able to see right through it.  I was really happy that all my many companions said that they couldn’t see a thing underneath the floral fabric.  However, the really cool part is that it is sheer enough so that baby can see out almost perfectly from under the nursing cover and gets good airflow so he stays at a comfortable temperature, even indoors. 

Besides being great for nursing, I really love that I can use the Pirose from Reno Rose for a variety of different functions in between feedings and even well after baby is weaned.  From uses such as car seat covers, hair scarves and even a place to set baby to play as well as fashion accessories for your purse and wardrobe, there are so many ways to use it that I have no plans to hand it down. 

Even if you’re not nursing, you will want to check out Reno Rose to see their gorgeous products and all the many ways that you can use them.  They also sell a Pirose fashion scarf that is similar to the Nursing Cover, but smaller so that it can be used as a headband, a purse accessory and more!

Price: $35.00

Find out how to wear it, how to find the right size for you, check out some videos, and see all the gorgeous patterns available at Reno Rose, Inc.  You can also keep up with them on Facebook and on Twitter!

This is a Mama Buzz review. The product was provided by Reno Rose for this review. All opinions are 100% ours and no form of monetary compensation was received in exchange for this Rave Review.

Natura World Sleep Envelope - Natural, Organic, and Green!

Cozy At Home: Day 34

Sometimes it can feel overwhelming trying to figure out what chemicals and toxins surround us on a daily basis.  While there may be quite a few environments you cannot control, your bed shouldn’t be one of them. 

Your bed should be a place where you can breathe and sleep easy, confident that you are free from all harmful chemicals.  This is why I have turned to Natura World to help me create a relaxing and cozy sleep solution that is not only incredibly comfortable and cozy, it’s also green, natural and organic.

Natura World Sleep Envelope:  We received the The Natura Sleep Envelope™ for review which includes a Washable Wool Comforter and a NaturaProtect Deluxe Mattress Protector.  I absolutely love that this set is certified chemical-free, as well as free of all allergens and synthetics, which helps me feel better about the 1/3 of our lives that is spent in bed. 

In addition to being a natural and organic sleep solution, the Sleep Envelope helps to keep you regulate temperature and keep from overheating while you sleep.  This is especially important when you share a bed but don’t share the same internal temperature.  I’m always cold while hubby and both my kiddos need far less blanketing, so I especially love products that work for all of us instead of having to store special blankets for our snuggle parties.

By using NaturaWool both above and below you as you sleep, it wicks away moisture without leaving your bedding feeling wet to the touch.  Since wool can take in and release a greater amount of moisture than synthetics can without becoming wet, it means that you will stay cozy and comfortable without freezing or overheating. 

The comfort below: The Natura Sleep Envelope begins with the NaturaProtect Deluxe Mattress Protector that includes an anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic barrier with Natura Silver Technology.  The plush top of the Deluxe Mattress Protector is designed to reduce the amount of tossing and turning while you sleep, which in turn, allows for a more restful sleep.  Since the mattress we tried it on was on the firmer side, I really liked the additional cushioning of the NaturaWool lining. 

The NaturaProtect Deluxe Mattress Protector is 100% waterproof and can be machine washed and dried, which makes it perfect to guard against spills, stains and accidents associated with having two kiddos in the house.  This also means that you can ensure you make the most of your mattress investment by not having to replace ruined mattresses before they are worn out. 

All wrapped up in comfort: The Washable Wool Comforter is made from Natura Smart Wash Wool wrapped in 100% cotton sateen, which means that it is cozy and comfortable straight out of the package.  The comforter is fully machine washable and can be dried in the dryer, but I imagine most will opt to cover the Natura comforter with a duvet of some sort as well.  Since white never stays white in our house, we covered it promptly with a cotton duvet that matched the décor of the room a bit more.  

Paired with the NaturaProtect, the Washable Wool Comforter is the perfect year-round solution to the fluctuating temperatures of the Northwest.  The fact that the Sleep Envelope is free of all toxins, chemicals and dyes makes it great, but when you add in the fact that it regulates temperatures, can be machine washed and dried, and is extremely cozy, you truly have an outstanding product.  

Since the quality of your sleep is just as important as the quantity, I really love knowing that we are getting both luxury and natural goodness all in one package.  Or, make that an envelope… A NaturaWorld Sleep Envelope. 
 
•Solve the “I’m hot, she’s not” struggles in your sleep retreat
•Create a naturally hypoallergenic sleep environment
•Halt the spread of viral contaminants and bacteria
•Protect against accidents and spills with a breathable, 100% waterproof barrier
•Enjoy the luxurious comfort of cotton sateen
•Keep it fresh with washable wool

Connect with Naturaworld on Facebook and Twitter!

Visit http://www.naturaworld.com/ for more information and ways to purchase

A huge thank you to Natura World for sending their Sleep Envelope and making it so we can sleep a little easier knowing we are completely enclosed in comfort and quality.  All opinions are 100% ours and no form of monetary compensation was received in exchange for this Rave Review.

zzzTIME Sleep Products for Baby {Review & Giveaway}

Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide: Day 3

I'm so excited about zzzTIME, a new line of bedtime essentials from sootheTIME that helps promote healthy sleep for infants and toddlers.  Not only do they give me peace of mind that my baby is cozy and safe while he sleeps, they also have made these first few weeks with him so much easier. 

As a brand new mom, I can attest to the fact that the mere mention of SIDS sent me into a panic as I began to check (and double check) every single thing on or near my infant every second.  sootheTIME created the zzzTIME line for this very purpose, helping all of us sleep-deprived parents find solutions that not only worked, they were also highly recommended by experts for safe sleeping.  We got to review the Snooze Wrap Plus and Snooze Sheets these past few weeks and I can honestly tell you that I don’t know what we would have done without them. 

Our favorite zzzTIME product is the Snooze Wrap Plus because it’s perfect for swaddling and sleeping as well as helping me maneuver two children during my days alone with them.  Because it has a great padded insert to help support the neck and head while he’s swaddled, it makes it so I can hold my newborn one handed, whether that is breastfeeding, carrying my toddler, or even steering a stroller.  An added bonus that we hadn’t anticipated is that it makes it easier for me to allow my {closely supervised} 2 year old to hold her brother on the couch with us, which just so happens to be her absolute favorite thing to do {see our Babies Holding Babies Wordless Wednesday for some pictures of her holding her brother in a Snooze Wrap Plus last week}.

Other great features of the Snooze Wrap Plus are the tummy comfort wrap that my son loves, especially when he is fussy or gassy, and the fact that I can get the perfect swaddle every single time, even when sleep deprived.  Since my son would prefer to be swaddled 100% of the time, this features make it easy to securely wrap him so that he can’t sneak his arms back out.  As he does get older and prefers his hands out, there is even an option to wrap baby so that their body is swaddled and covered, but their hands are free.

It may be pure coincidence, but I found the Snooze Wrap to even lead to longer intervals of sleep, which I equated with the preferred swaddled comfort and the fact that he wasn’t flailing his arms when he got startled.  Another huge plus of the Snooze Wrap is that even though my son is tall, the Snooze Wrap Plus is adjustable so I can keep him in it for longer than with fixed swaddlers which he has already grown out of!  

The one issue I did find with the Snooze Wrap Plus is that when my son really gets his limbs moving he can actually roll over easier in the wrap than he can while wearing regular PJs.  This leaves him ending up on his tummy which he completely despises as well as it not being safe for sleeping.  

Thank goodness zzzTIME also offers one of the most ingenious designs in baby sleepwear I have ever seen, the Snooze Sheet to solve this.  Designed to be used with zzzTIME products, the Snooze Sheet is a cotton sheet that offers secure positioning in the “back to sleep” position for your little one.  The Snooze Sheet is available for cribs and play yards and can be used with both the Snooze Wrap Plus and the Snooze Sack.

All zzzTIME products by sootheTIME can be purchased at Babies R Us.  For more retailers, visit sootheTIME to see other stores where these items can be purchased.

http://www.soothetime.com/
 
One lucky Rave and Review reader will win a Snooze Wrap Plus to give them peace of mind while they sleep!

 To Enter:  Visit sootheTIME and then come back here and tell me what product of theirs you would love to have or something you learned about safe sleeping.

And, as always, there are extra entries available!

1) Subscribe to Rave and Review, top of right sidebar (2 extra entries, must be verified to count)

2) Tweet about this Giveaway using @raveandreview and #giveaway with the link to this post (http://bit.ly/coGyh9) after following (daily Tweet, just post link here)

3) Blog about this Giveaway with links back to this post as well as the www.raveandreview.com (just post the URL where I can find your writeup)

4) Place my button or the Ultimate Gift Guide button in your sidebar on your blog or website (2 extra entries for each, must have an active link to R&R)

5) Comment love.  Enter any of my other Giveaways and/or comment on any non-giveaway post!

6) Email love.  Share this Giveaway with friends and family via email and cc Leanne (at)raveandreview (dot) com (I will never, ever contact your email recipients)

7) Vote for Rave and Review on Top Baby Blogs, logo in right sidebar (daily entry, just tell me what rank R&R has)

On December 8th at 11:59pm PST a winner will be drawn, announced here and notified via email.  Winner will have 48 hours to contact me or a new winner will be chosen.  Giveaway open to US addresses only. 

Winner, winner!  This giveaway is now closed.  Thank you to all who entered and congrats to: #80 Kimberly said... I subscribe via email #1

Thank you to sootheTIME for providing us with the sleep products as well as the giveaway to one lucky reader. All opinions are 100% ours and no form of monetary compensation was received in exchange for this Rave Review.

BedVoyage Bamboo Bedding from ATG Stores {Review & $75 Giveaway}

Cozy At Home Event: Day 20

If you’ve never slept on or cuddled in bamboo bedding you have seriously been missing out.  Bamboo clothing and textiles are certainly not new to the market, but in the past few years they have been growing in popularity.  And, after experiencing the luxury of the new BedVoyage Bamboo Linens from ATG Stores, I can completely see why everyone loves them so much.

I had the pleasure of reviewing some eco-luxury bamboo linens from BedVoyage for the past few weeks that consisted of a BedVoyage Sheet Set and a Bamboo Travel Blanket.  Both of these products are now available at ATG Stores and are high on my list of luxury items I would recommend for the perfect night’s sleep, whether you are home or away.   

BedVoyage says it uses bamboo in its linens for its naturally anti-bacterial, thermal regulating, moisture wicking, odor resistant and environmentally friendly properties.  They also use the highest thread count possible for that premium sleep experience which equates to approximately 1,000 + thread count in other fabrics.  This is something I really appreciate because I have gotten really picky about bedding in the past few years and detest sleeping on low quality sheets. 

Even though I was expecting high quality linens, I was still shocked by how soft and velvety the BedVoyage bedding is.  Even more surprising was how the bamboo fabrics had a silky-smooth coolness to them that somehow kept me at the perfect temperature whether I was sleeping on their sheets sets or relaxing on the sofa with the travel blanket.  I like to think this is because the company is based right here in Seattle and they know all about how unpredictable our Northwest weather can be.   

BedVoyage Bamboo Sheet Set from ATGStores.com

Besides being extremely soft and silky smooth, the Bamboo Sheet Set from BedVoyage has some really interesting features I have never seen in bedding before.  The most interesting of which is their unique sewn together top sheet and bottom sheet that allows you to make your bed by simply attaching the 4 fitted sheet corners to your mattress.  This ease of use also makes them the perfect traveling sheets since it’s not a huge hassle to make your bed once you arrive at your destination.

By sewing together their deep pocket fitted sheet and their extra long top sheet in one single piece two feet up from the bottom of the bed, it does more than make your bed easy to make.  It also means that your bedding stays neat and tidy no matter how you sleep at night and won’t come untucked while you sleep.  Instead of feeling restrictive, the BedVoyage sheet set has a very smart design that uses an elasticized panel which allows for ample room to move while you sleep. 

No wonder BedVoyage has such a huge fanbase that takes their sheets everywhere they go – they are easy to use, pack and store, and they provide a luxurious night’s sleep even when you are away from home.  “If you spend 1/3rd of your life in bed, why not sleep on the most luxurious linens that you can? And at a price that is affordable!” says Sharon Stuart, the CEO and founder of BedVoyage.

BedVoyage sheet sets include: One attached fitted & top sheet in Twin, Double, Queen or King, Coordinating zippered pillow cases with embroidery (1 for Twin size), Bamboo fiber matching fabric travel tote, Laminated Instruction card for maid service (double sided in English & Spanish), Each set folds up nicely into the size of a man’s cableknit sweater (13” long, 3” high, 10” wide)

BedVoyage Bamboo Travel Blanket from ATGStores.com 

The BedVoyage Bamboo Travel Blanket is one of those “can’t live without it” products for me these past few months.  Because I was huge and pregnant all summer but still really liked to be covered while I slept, there was a lot of cover throwing throughout the heat of the summer.  This was also true as we snuggled up to watch TV in the evenings and I really wanted that cuddled up feeling but couldn’t tolerate extra warmth that traditional cotton or wool blankets provide. 

The BedVoyage Bamboo Travel Blanket is surprisingly hard to describe because most of the descriptions I want to use seem to be contradictions.  It’s hard to believe that something can be delicate and lightweight but still provide a good snuggle weight that drapes perfectly and makes you feel all tucked in.

The truly amazing part is the Bamboo fibers which really do regulate temperature and makes it the perfect warmth for any weather.  Even as the temperature in our house fluctuated with the changing seasons, it has continued to be the perfect amount of cover without ever being too hot. 

The silky feeling of the Bamboo Travel Blanket is amazingly soft and supple, which makes it everyone’s favorite blanket.  The Bamboo Blanket has a delicate looking weave to the fabric, but is actually quite durable, something I was really happy about because it has seen quite a few long nights and naptimes since it arrived. 

The Bamboo Blanket we reviewed measures 40" wide by 70" long which makes it just long enough for me to use to snuggle up with a kiddo or two.  They also offer numerous other sizes to fit all sizes of beds. 

Find out more about BedVoyage at http://www.bedvoyage.com/ and see more BedVoyage products on ATGStores.com

 ATGstores.com has some really great stores like LightingUniverse.com, FixtureUniverse.com, DecorUniverse.com, HomeFurnitureShowroom.com, SportingGoodsCentral.com, NewBabySupply.com, OutdoorLivingShowroom.com and CookingandTableware.com.

 
One lucky Rave and Review reader will win a $75 ATG Stores Gift Card to spend however they like!

To Enter (mandatory): Go to ATGStores.com 500 websites and pick out another item you would buy with your $75 credit.  Post the URL link for the item you would choose to purchase in the comments below.

And, as always, there are extra entries available!

1) Let me know you subscribe to Rave and Review. You can subscribe at the top of right sidebar (1 extra entry, must be verified to count)

2) Follow Rave and Review on Twitter (1 extra entry)

3) Tweet about this Giveaway "@raveandreview and @ATGStores are giving away a GIft Certificate #giveaway http://bit.ly/9eqSAJ" (extra entry for daily Tweet, just post link here)

4) Blog about this giveaway with a link back to Rave and Review and ATGStores.com (this is good for 5 entries so leave 5 comments with a link to the blog post)

5) Follow @ATGStores on Twitter (2 extra entries)

6) Become a fan of ATGStores on Facebook (2 extra entries)

7) Follow the ATGStores Blog (2 extra entries)

8) Subscribe to ATGStores Email List (3 extra entries)

9) Add Rave and Review to your blogroll - see HTML code in sidebar (Good for 5 entries, leave 5 comments with a link to the blogroll) 

On November 16th at 11:59pm PST a winner will be drawn, announced here and notified via email.  Winner will have 48 hours to contact me or a new winner will be chosen.  Giveaway open to US and Canadian addresses only, no PO Boxes.  Anyone currently hosting a ATG Stores giveaway is not eligible to enter.

Winner, winner!  This giveaway is now closed.  Thank you to all who entered and congrats to...

#534  hjm said... well there is a lot to choose from!
i like this mr barbecue gift set- my brother would love it:

http://www.atgstores.com/top-gifts-for-men/mr-barbeque-02182p-classic-prestige-rubber-finger-grip-top-gifts-for-men_g511697.html?isku=4821593

A big thank you to ATGStores for providing us with the complimentary bamboo linens from BedVoyage in exchange for my honest review as well as the $75 Gift Certificate for one lucky winner.  All opinions are 100% ours and no form of monetary compensation was received in exchange for this Rave Review.