Contact Village Life Books!

You can also find Village Life Books on Facebook and follow @VillageLifeBook on Twitter.

Contact Green Girls Market!

You can also find Green Girls Market on Facebook and follow @CheriLarson on Twitter.

You can contact Tea via the following:

Mailing Address:
Tea Collection
1 Arkansas Street
Suite B
San Francisco, CA 94107

Telephone:
7am-6pm PST M-F:
(866) 374-8747

Email Address:
service@teacollection.com

Find more info on their website!

You can also find Tea Collection on Facebook and follow @teacollection on Twitter.

Contact Boumy here!

Phone: 1-800-608-2754
Website: http://www.gymsensei.com

Read my review of GymSensei:

When Jacob was six, we enrolled him in a martial arts program; he’s been going strong ever since, at times slowing down, then picking right back up. He’s now a red belt; in fact, in August, he’ll be testing for his brown belt. He’s really excited because they have his black belt sitting on the shelf at his school….just waiting for when he’s ready.

There have been times when he’s not had the greatest motivation, and I’ve wished that I knew a bit more about the techniques and moves that he’s had to learn; that way I could help him and even just spend time with him doing something he loves to do. Well, enter GymSensei. GymSensei is an interactive martial arts program that can be done from home, but let’s not waste time; just watch the video to find out more.

The only issue we had while doing GymSensei was that Jacob tended to be shy of the blocking tool at first. That’s one thing his instructor has been working with him heavily on, is being more aggressive and not backing down. I’m really excited to now have this DVD program that we can go through together and just review and practice his technique, hopefully building confidence in Jacob as we go. Of course, some of the stances were also a bit of a review for him, but a good review. Reinforcement is definitely necessary in martial arts.The GymSensei program has DVD programs for 4-7 year olds and for ages 8 and up. You can purchase the GymSensei Introductory Package for $99; it includes the DVD, uniform for child, white band, and blocking tool. It’s a great way to provide physical education for kids or even a homeschool physical fitness program.

(Disclosure: I received the GymSensei Introductory Package, free of charge, from GymSensei, for the purposes of this review. The video was compensated by GymSensei. All views/opinions remain solely my own.)

92 Nubanusit Rd
Nelson, NH 03457

info@preschoolprojects.net
877-827-1230
http://www.preschoolprojects.net

Read my review of 1-2-3! Textured Products Craft Kits….

As you know, if you read my blog regularly, you know that my boys love to craft. It’s one of their favorite things to do, and frankly, if we’re having a rough day, especially a day in which my youngest just can’t behave, I’ve noticed that sitting down with a craft is the best medicine for him.

When I attended Toy Fair this past February, I met Linda Scanlan from 1-2-3! Textured Products. Linda has extensive education and background in early childhood education and has created 1-2-3! Textured Products, which provides a host of textured craft kits for young, preschool-aged children. From textured sticker kits to textured craft kits, you can find a host of affordable activities, whether you’re a teacher, a mom, or even a homeschool family.

We actually received two kits, including Rory the Bear and Tuggy the Tractor. Jacob chose to decorate the bear, while Jaden chose the tractor. Each kit comes with a cardstock-like cutout (the bear and tractor) on a cardstock background; also included were 3 textured products to decorate each cutout. Rory the Bear included a green fur, brown yarn bits, and thin, colored straw pieces; Tuggy the Tractor included a red fur, confetti-like squares, and white/pink paper strips. The boys used glue to spread over their cutouts, and then they applied the different textured decorations to each of their crafts. As a mom/homeschool teacher, I appreciate the fact that these kits keep little hands busy. The textures provide tactile stimulation and give practice in fine motor skills, as some of the decorations can be quite small and difficult to maneuver for chubby fingers. However, it provides that challenge and stimulation that kids need. I could definitely see using these in preschool classrooms, in younger elementary school classrooms, daycares, special ed classes, etc. They would also be easy to pick up and take with you, as they hardly take any room at all in a purse or carry-on. They’d provide a great activity for a long plane ride. The only issue I had with the products is that the packaging for the decorations was a bit harder to open….other than that, I would very much recommend these products to educators everywhere.You’ll find a variety of kits, ranging from transportation to farm animals to holidays to birthdays (perfect for birthday parties), forest animals, etc. You can purchase the Craft Kits for $1 apiece, or you can purchase a whole set for $4.99. I’m considering actually ordering some for our next school year, as Jaden will be doing some preschool work, and these would make for a great activity when I need to help Jacob with his work. Just one last note: Jaden was able to work pretty well independently on his tractor; while Jacob enjoyed it, he wasn’t quite as into it as Jaden was….being 9 years old now, he is getting harder to entertain.:) Do keep in mind, though, that these are geared toward younger ages, with adult supervision, of course.Be sure to follow @PreschoolProj on Twitter to stay up to date on all the happenings with 1-2-3! Textured Products. It’s also nice to know that Linda Scanlan also gives back through her business; she provides free educational activities to schools and orphanages in Haiti.

(Disclosure: I received two kits, free of charge, from 1-2-3! Textured Products, for the purposes of this review tour. All views/opinions remain solely my own.)

Mailing Address:
SmartLab Toys
11120 NE 33rd Place, Suite 101
Bellevue, WA 98004

Telephone/Fax:
Toll-free: 866-319-5900
Local: 425-822-1950
Fax: 866-755-1086

Email:
General Information: info@smartlabtoys.com
Sales: orders@smartlabtoys.com
Customer Service: help@smartlabtoys.com

My Review for SmartLab Toys’ Snap Fashion Jewelry Studio:

I’ll be honest from the get-go and let you know that we don’t have a little girl; however, I have personally tried this product out (since my boys aren’t really that into jewelry) and am so excited to be reviewing it. I tried to limit myself, though, as I plan to give it to my best friend’s little girl as a gift. However, this little studio could become quite addictive because it’s so much fun! The Snap Fashion Jewelry Studio, from SmartLab Toys is in one word….Awesome! I was thinking the whole time I was “playing,” that this would have been something I would have absolutely loved when I was a little girl. It’s the perfect toy to get those creative juices flowing.

If you haven’t heard of SmartLab Toys, now is the time to check them out. They offer all kinds of educational and creative toys that are fun for the whole family really. I could totally see sitting down and playing with the jewelry studio, alongside a little girl. I met with SmartLab Toys while at Toy Fair 2011 in NYC, and I was immediately drawn in by all of their wonderful products for both boys and girls, younger children and older children. The Snap Fashion Jewelry Studio is for ages 7 and up.

With the Snap Fashion Jewelry Studio, budding fashionistas can make their own handmade fabric-covered snaps that serve to make a host of different jewelry pieces. There is an instructional book that comes with the kit, and it tells about the pieces inside the kit, including the Snap Maker, Fabric Circles, birthstone gems, and all jewelry pieces, as well as a photo transfer sheet. There are a few items, throughout the book, that might need to be purchased, or you might have to see if you have laying around the house, such as acetone (nail polish remover). Each craft lets you know what you need, if anything other than what’s in your kit. Each craft will also tell the fashionista if she needs adult help. There are symbols with each craft that parents can look for, making it super easy to see if that craft is ok left unsupervised; I love that feature.

Now with this kit, crafts include rings, bracelets, single or double charm necklaces, monogrammed jewelry, Birthstone Bling, lockets, friendship jewelry, gifts, belts, hair pieces, key chains, shoe flair, etc. There are instructions for every single craft. This book also teaches somewhat about fashion, as the reader gets to know about different colors and fabrics, what works better than others, etc. It’s such a great little educational tool. Not only that, but crafters aren’t limited to the fabric circles that are in this kit. They can go out and find their own fabric to make their jewelry, in that way promoting individuality, as well as creativity. One of my favorite pieces within the kit is the Reminder Ring. With this piece, crafters use a piece of fabric that “sparks a memory.” I myself would love to have something so memorable and sentimental.

I actually created a ring and a hairpiece with the kit, just a regular ring. I used one of the fabric circles provided and inserted it into the snap maker with the dome. Then I just pressed down the arm of the snap maker, raised the arm, and placed a back onto the snap maker. After pressing down the snap maker once more (until I felt and heard a click), I pushed the release button, and voila! I had a snap! Then I just inserted that snap into one of the plastic rings provided. It was very cute.I also used that same snap to make a hair pin.I absolutely love the Snap Fashion Jewelry Studio and want to recommend it to all of my readers. It would make a great gift item for birthdays or holidays, as it would definitely provide hours of creative fun and promote individuality and style amongst young crafters. It’s also the perfect thing to keep hands busy during summer break. You can purchase this kit for $24.99, which is also an awesome price for such a wonderful kit. Not only that, but SmartLab Toys is offering MamaBuzz readers a discount of 25% by using the code: BLOGBUZZ at checkout; this offer expires June 30, 2011. Be sure to check out The Free Zone! for great kids’ activities from SmartLab Toys.

(Disclosure: I received the Snap Fashion Jewelry Studio, free of charge, from SmartLab Toys, for the purposes of this review. All views/opinions remain solely my own.)

Read my review of Manhattan Toy’s Boysterous Action Figures….

While at Toy Fair 2011, I was able to meet with Manhattan Toy and review a few of the newer toys coming out, including Boysterous, an exciting line of sports action figures for boys. Boysterous includes five sports themed action figures, as well as a carry-along Extreme Sports Zone, in which kids can store and tote their action figures.

Jacob and Jaden received Boysterous Boy Goalie Gavin and Boysterous Boy Slope Shreddin Sean. Both action figures have bendable, movable arms and legs, and their hands and feet are magnetized; they can interchange between the different sports, which is really neat. Gavin comes with a magnetized soccer ball, and Sean comes with a magnetized snowboard. The boys also received the Extreme Sports Zone for their action figures. This handy tote is also an all-in-one sports zone, meaning kids can enjoy soccer, hockey, football, as well as a skate park/half-pipe for skateboarding/snowboarding with their action figures. The tote zips up, folds up, has velcros shut, etc. Kids can lay it flat for a sports match, or they can create a half-pipe for their very own skate park/snowboarding paradise. My boys actually used it in a few different ways….

As a mom, I love the convenience of these toys. They’re easy to pick up and carry with us wherever we go. I’ve already made a mental note to take this with us this summer on our roadtrip. It’s just so handy, and even when they can’t unzip their tote in the car, they can still play with the little action figures. It allows for awesome pretend, imaginary play, and the boys have really enjoyed it. Jacob actually told me this the other night….”Mom, this is the awesomest toy ever.” And I quote him on that; he wanted me to let my readers know.:)Boysterous is meant for ages 3-8; it has small choking hazards for children under 3. You can purchase the Boysterous Action Figures fro $18; the Sports Zone tote is $30. The action figures are sturdy and well made; my boys have already put them through the mill, and they have proved themselves well. The Sports Zone could be misshapen if kids try to stand or sit on it, which Jaden has actually tried to do….but ours has held up pretty well so far.

A few of the MamaBuzz reviewers are also reviewing PJ Tots from Manhattan Toy.

(Disclosure: I was provided Boysterous action figures/toys, free of charge, from Manhattan Toy, for the purposes of this review. All views/opinions are solely my own.)

1-800-97-FRESH (973-7374)
info@drkatz.com

For patient care and questions about the products, please contact them at the following number/email address:

1-800-97-FRESH (973-7374)
patientcare@drkatz.com

To order or for questions regarding orders, please contact them at the following number/email address:

1-800-97-FRESH (973-7374)
orders@drkatz.com

All other inquiries, please see this page. You can also find them on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter. The following is our review.

There are times that bad breath bothers me, particularly in the morning. My husband, on the other hand, has a hard time, which I really feel could be attributed to dental issues. For awhile now, we’ve looked for something to help him; he’s tried using different types of mouthwash because that supposedly kill bacteria in the mouth. I’ve even started buying a new toothpaste that’s supposed to kill bacteria. More recently, though, we’ve been introduced to TheraBreath.

TheraBreath was developed by Dr. Harold Katz, in response to his own daughter’s struggles with bad breath. TheraBreath makes several different products, but we’ve had the opportunity to try the Fresh Breath Toothpaste, the Fresh Breath Oral Rinse, and the Fresh Breath Lozenges.The products are naturally oxygenating and help to get rid of dry mouth. Just to share a bit about each product….

• The Fresh Breath Toothpaste contains aloe vera; it’s supposed to be good for both the teeth and gums. It contains no sodium lauryl sulfate and is guaranteed to work for 24 hours. I noticed that it does have a mild flavor to it; it smells very minty, but the flavor is not that strong at all. It has peppermint oil and fluoride. It’s a clear gel-like toothpaste, very smooth. Used in conjunction with the oral rinse, it works very well to give a clean mouth/fresh breath effect.
• The Fresh Breath Oral Rinse actually contains several ingredients, including baking soda; you can definitely tell it contains baking soda. It doesn’t have a bad taste….just a very mild taste. It smells very minty and is a clear liquid. It’s best to use the oral rinse twice a day with the toothpaste, but there are also detailed, full-scale instructions if you really struggle with bad breath, including even how to brush your whole mouth. Together this system is supposed to really kill the germs in your mouth, meaning bad breath goes away.
• Finally, the Fresh Breath Lozenges are nice because they also attack germs and help to freshen breath, but they are so much easier to carry with you for a quick freshening up. They have a mandarin mint flavor and actually taste pretty good. You get 100 wrapped lozenges in one box, meaning it’s easy to just grab a few and put in a purse or bag. These lozenges really help with dry mouth and help to get the saliva flowing, meaning less germs (aka, bad breath). They contain natural ingredients like Citrus and Mint Leaf and only need to be used every 3-4 hours.

The one thing my husband commented on about these products is that they induced salivation and really got his mouth watering. It wasn’t that he was drooling or anything, but they really do work, in that regard. Both he and I noticed a difference with his breath; I noticed that unlike his normal mouthwash, this seemed to stay with him and work a lot longer….meaning he would brush his teeth first thing in the morning and still have great breath an hour or so later when he walked out the door for work. That’s sayin’ something because we’ve struggled to find something that would help, let alone last for more than 5 minutes, literally.

Now, I’m not saying that this works for everyone….in fact, I’d like to add a disclaimer that I’m making no guarantees of any kind, including medical. However, the company does guarantee the products. If a customer is not satisfied with how the products work, they will refund that customer’s money. You can purchase the toothpaste and oral rinse for $10.50 each; the lozenges are $13. Be sure to find out more on the TheraBreath YouTube channel.

(Disclosure: I received the toothpaste, oral rinse, and lozenges, free of charge, from TheraBreath. All views/opinions are solely my own.)

Reno Rose Inc. was founded in 2009 by Rino Greenwood after she retired from her dancing career as a professional ballerina. The idea for the Pirose scarf came about, as Rino had a desire to create a nursing cover that is both multifunctional and beautiful. She and her husband, Nathan, teamed up to create the Reno Rose Nurf, and later the Pirose for both fashion and nursing.

Contact Information for Reno Rose Inc.:

Reno Rose Inc.
13810 Sutton Park Dr. N.
Suite 439
Jacksonville, FL 32224
TEL/FAX: 904-551-0532
info@renorose.com

A few months ago, I did a review for the Reno Rose Nurf, a scarf that is both functional and fashionable. Now I’m writing about their Pirose scarf, meant for fashion.

Pirose scarves come in many colors/styles, whether you want a more quiet look or a bold, bright coverlet. I actually received the Janelle, with its quiet, soothing color tones yet beautiful, graceful design. It actually comes with its own little bag for storage; both the bag and scarf are very beautiful and delicate. I’m reviewing it as a fashion piece that can be worn with either casual or dressy. What I like about this scarf is that it’s lightweight, very classy looking; it could be worn in both cold and warm weather. The colors of this particular scarf are very neutral, meaning it could be mixed with several different outfits, making it especially nice for out of town trips when trying to pack lightly. There are more than 12 ways to wear this scarf, so it’s versatile and doesn’t get old. I’ve included a few pictures throughout this post, so you can see some of the ways it can be worn.

Personally, I might not wear it often as a cover, although it does make for a very elegant, beautiful cover….unless I was cold and just needed something to cover up. However, I would definitely wear this scarf in my hair….around my neck….possibly as a belt….etc. I could even tie it onto my bag or purse if I didn’t need to wear it right away but wanted to wear it later. It’d still give a bit of style to my handbag. Even though it does have the head hole in the middle, you can still roll it to where that’s not even visible. It’s a beautiful accessory to any outfit.

Just to tell you a bit about the nursing aspect of Pirose scarves…. With the scarf on, you shift it around, until the wider part of the fabric is covering your front, and voila, you have a nursing cover. You can also use it as a stroller cover, which makes it even more functional for a mom on the go. You can keep an eye on baby through the hole. The Pirose is so small and lightweight that it can easily slip into your purse or diaper bag. The best part is that it can be washed and dried, as it’s made out of 100% polyester.

There are several different colors/designs available. Some of my favorite include the Jordyn, the Juli, Aki, etc. You can buy scarves specifically for fashion or specifically for nursing, but the fashion scarves are not meant for nursing, so you’ll want to make that distinction when choosing a design. You can purchase the Pirose scarf for $35 in sizes small, medium, or large. They actually compare the three sizes and ways to wear to give you an idea of what each size looks like, as they’re not your typical normal sizing.