Celebrating Your Mom on her Birthday

A mother is truly an angel on earth, and throughout our lives she’s the one making sure every one of our birthdays is celebrated as it should be. Now that we know how much work goes into motherhood, it’s high time to return the favor and give Mom the birthday celebration she deserves. Use these heartfelt ideas and make her feel amazing on her special day.

A Surprise Knock at the Door

If you live far away from your mom, try your hardest to shock her with a surprise visit. If you’re planning far enough in advance, book a flight or make any necessary travel arrangements. Once you arrive, head over to her house and knock on the door. Tape a bow to the top of your head, and wait for the look on her face when she opens up the front door—you’ll definitely be her favorite present this year. If you have siblings, try to coordinate with them to have your visits coincide. She’ll be so delighted to have all of her kids home at once.

Floral Fun

Who doesn’t love the fragrant scent and colorful vibrancy of beautiful bouquets? Stick with a classic celebration tactic and send along your sweetest sentiments in the form of a birthday flower delivery. Whether you send along an arrangement to her office or her front door, every time she sees the colorful petals she’ll experience a rush of happiness—exactly what Mom deserves on her birthday. Make sure you add a heartfelt note that will bring a happy tear to her eye and let her know how thankful you are to have been blessed with such a wonderful mother.

A Special Lunch Date

If you live in the same city as your mom, make sure you take her out for a surprise luncheon. If she’s still working, head over to her office and pick her up for a fun mother-daughter date. If she’s at home, consider picking something up and delivering it to her. If you’re in another city or you can’t get over in time to celebrate with her during the middle of the day, call in her favorite order to her favorite takeout spot, pay for delivery, and wait for her call of thanks when she finds the feast at her front door.

A Subscription Just for Her

One of the best gift ideas you can find for your mom is a subscription box you know she’ll love. If she’s always been a makeup maven that loves trying out all the new cosmetic releases, get her signed up for BirchBox. This popular service will deliver a box of the latest makeup samples to hit the market every month. If your mom loves to get her hands messy in the kitchen, check out Blue Apron. This organic food delivery system will send boxes filled with fresh ingredients and unique recipes each week to make sure she keeps her spatula skills in fine form.

A Mother-Daughter Pampering Day

Moms new and old can appreciate this awesome gift idea. Kick your feet up together and head to a massage parlor or spa resort to have a day of mother and daughter pampering. Whether you two elect for full body massages, manicures, or facials, treating your mom to some luxury treatments and your loving company will combine for a wonderful birthday treat she’ll truly appreciate. If you have a daughter, take her along as well for a multi-generational day of laughter and destressing.

Giving Back

This a great idea if you’re struggling to come up with a gift for the woman who has everything. If your mother has worked to instill a sense of generosity in you, show her the lessons stuck by donating money to a charity in her honor. Whether it’s a local cause you know she’s passionate about or an organization you know will do a world of good, she will no doubt appreciate your thoughtful gift idea.

Make sure your mom is properly celebrated on her birthday this year with any one of these fun surprise ideas and make sure her day is as special as she is.

Simple Ways to Let a Friend Know You Care

Whether your loved one is going through a hard time or you’ve just been feeling a rush of gratitude for their presence in your life, letting them know you care takes just a pinch of thoughtfulness and a moment of effort. You never know the difference it might make, so peruse these options and let your friend know how much they are appreciated.

A Surprise Delivery
Order a bouquet of flowers for delivery to their home or office and write a sweet note to accompany it. You can make it as general as “Hope this brightens your day” or personalize it for a particular situation. A vibrant surprise such as this is sure to bring a smile to their face and remind them of your love every time they see it.

A Kind Letter
With social media saturating our daily lives, it’s easy to “like” our friends’ photos and status updates and call it a day. But if you’re truly feeling like reaching out to a friend and making sure they know you care, consider putting your feelings into writing. That’s right, writing a good old-fashion, pen to paper letter. Just a few paragraphs outlining how grateful you are for their friendship might be the pick me up they need if they’re having a rough go of things.

Take Them Out for Lunch
The work week can drag for all of us, so if you want to let your friend know you care, stop by in the middle of the week at their office and take them out to lunch at a local place. Breaking up the monotony of a long day and the added bonus of surprise will make your friend feel appreciated and give you two a chance to hang out even in the midst of a hectic week.

Actively Listen
If your friend needs to express something, make sure you do your due diligence and listen actively. Too often we hear, but we don’t really take in the message. Your friend might be hiding feelings between the lines and hoping that you’ll pick up on it, so do your best to repeat the words that are spoken to you and analyze the information given to better respond. It may sound like common sense, but many of us fall out of the habit of active listening. Being conscious of this will heighten your communication skills with everyone in your life.

Put the Phone Down
You might feel connected with the outside world while missing out on the person sitting right in front of you. Nothing beats in-person interaction, and constantly looking at the blue light of your iPhone screen just tells the person you’re with that they’re not interesting enough to capture your attention. Put your phone away and give them your full attention; you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how much better your communication is.

Show Up With a Meal
If you notice a friend is struggling to get everything done and could really use a break, doing something as simple as bringing dinner over could change their entire outlook for the week. If you’re not a chef extraordinaire there’s no harm in picking up something from their favorite restaurant or having it delivered—it’s the thought that counts, not the food. This is an especially good idea for moms and dads who might be running themselves ragged with responsibility.

Send an Inspirational Book
We don’t always have the right words for someone going through a difficult time, so don’t be hesitant to reach out with the wise words of someone else. If you find an applicable book of inspiration that fits the situation, pass it along. You don’t have to let them know it was a gift specifically bought for them, and you can work under the pretense that it’s been in your library all along. Sometimes it’s hard for people to accept gifts, so if this fits your situation, definitely take it into consideration.

Wine and Chat
Another easy option? A wine night. Grab a personalized wine bottle from a company like Etching Expressions with a picture of the two of you or a cheery message guaranteed to make them smile. Even after you finish its contents, they’ll keep the bottle as a memento of your fun night together and it may bring light to their life on a rainy day in the future. Nothing sparks conversation like a little liquid courage, so give them the chance to express themselves without pressuring them. Simply letting them know you are willing to listen can speak volumes.

Celebrating Your Girlfriends on Gal-entine’s Day

Haven’t heard of Gal-entine’s Day, yet? It’s high time you started observing this wonderful celebration of female friendship. Originally coined by Amy Poehler’s character Leslie Knope on the hit NBC show “Parks and Recreation”, this occasion is celebrated on February 13th, the day before Valentine’s Day. It’s meant to commemorate the beautiful bond and love between best friends, and if you’ve got a great crew of gals you adore, you need to celebrate your friendships and give a nod to the many different but just as wonderful types of love in your life.

Gifting isn’t Just for Lovers
Give your best gal pals a token of your appreciation for their friendship with some sweet and sentimental presents this Gal-entine’s Day. Skip the stale presents and make your besties feel like queens with some heartfelt presents you know they’ll adore. Whether it’s friendship bracelets (those aren’t just for preteens you know!) or tickets to a show you know all of you will enjoy, sweet little presents will definitely have your besties feeling the love.

A Fun Project
Want to keep busy while you’re hanging out? Provide all the supplies for a fun DIY project. Whether it’s making a dream board of all the hopes and wishes you all have for the future using pictures and terms cut out of a magazine, or a wonderfully scented homemade shower scrub, you’ll laugh over your arts and crafts project and leave the evening with a fun memento of the fun times you had that evening.

Paint ’N Wine Night
If you haven’t done a paint and wine night yet, you’re missing out. There are tons of companies in every big city that offer evenings where you and your girlfriends can get firsthand instruction from an artist and create a copycat painting masterpiece, all while sipping on alcoholic beverages and eating yummy appetizers. You’ll all go home at the end of the night with a new painting to hang on your wall, and every time you see it hanging on your wall in the future you’ll smile and think of the amazing women in your life.

Karaoke Night
What better way to spend an evening celebrating love than singing your heart out to some ballads with your besties? Head to a local karaoke bar and pick your favorite jams, sing some duets, and rock out to girl groups for a celebration that will have you losing your voice (all in good fun, of course!)

Television Binging
What is a night in front of the television without some delicious snacks? Order in food and have it delivered from a company like DoorDash, or do it smorgasbord style with a yummy charcuterie and cheese board, mini sliders, and chocolate berries from a company like Shari’s Berries. Celebrate women by picking movies with female leads: think Katniss from “Hunger Games” or the funny, singing gals from “Pitch Perfect”.

For Far Away Besties
If your best friend lives far away but you still want to let her know you’re thinking of her, send a fun card that will provide a happy surprise come February 13th  when she checks her mailbox. Plan a Skype date to catch up and get all the details on any Valentine’s plans you two might be celebrating with the lucky fellas in your lives.

A Girl’s Trip
If you and your friends are all single for the Valentine’s holiday, then you’ve got the entire weekend to work with for your Gal-entine’s celebrations (no wallowing about not being a relationship necessary, ladies). Go out on a sweet getaway weekend that will have you all feeling rejuvenated come the following Monday. What about a wine tasting weekend with a side of luxury spa treatments? Or perhaps you’ll head out on a ski weekend to make the most of the snow still clinging to the ground as winter winds its way down. Whatever it is that you like to do, plan a last-minute trip and celebrate with the girls who know you best.

Romantic relationships can come and go, but your best friends are always there for you, so make sure you celebrate all the types of love in your life this February.

Moms Will LOVE the CND® VINYLUX® Holiday 2015 Aurora Collection- Giveaway

Are you a premium nail polish lover? I love a really good nail polish that applies well, looks pretty and lasts for longer than just a couple days. I cook, clean, type and do a variety of things that require the use of my hands for much of my day. I absolutely must use a nail polish that can stand up to all of that activity. CND® VINYLUX® Weekly Polish fits my needs. The formula is so good, not streaky or too thin, and it applies very evenly. My favorite part is that it dries super fast so I can go on with my day. Even if I decide to polish my nails 30 minutes before bedtime, my polish will dry and I won't wake up to creases on my nails.

CND® VINYLUX® has their Holiday 2015 Aurora Collection available in some festive and unique colors. I would have expected reds and golds, but the Aurora Collection is so much better. The colors this year are:

Aren't these colors gorgeous? I tried Glacial Mist on my nails since I have a love of blue polishes. I tend to have a lot of problems when it comes to nail polish containing glitter. I find that you get uneven color and the actual glitter is usually too clumpy or blotchy. This did not happen for me. With just two coats I was able to get the look I wanted and just love the sparkle and shine. This one will already be my go-to look for the upcoming holiday season. I have been wearing it for 4 days now and so far, no chipping!

VINYLUX is made to where you do not need a basecoat. It contains no formaldehyde, toluene or DBP. It is activated by natural light and while other polishes start to break down, VINYLUX Weekly Polish becomes more durable! This is perfect for busy moms like me! You only have to change your polish once a week and sometimes can go longer.

Find CND® VINYLUX® Weekly Nail Polish at ULTA, CND online, and Loxa Beauty and retail for $10.50 per bottle. These weekly nail polishes would make a great holiday gift or stocking stuffer for the special ladies in your life; moms, daughters, aunts, sister, friends, neighbors and teachers.

One lucky Mom Files reader will win the Holiday 2015 Aurora Collection valued at $42! Go enter below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is open to U.S. residents only and will end on October 1, 2015. One winner will be selected and contacted via email to claim prize. Be sure to follow all rules in Rafflecopter widget for entries to count. Good luck!

I received products samples in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own as always! 

Mother's Day Gift Idea | CLEAN Fragrances for Body & Home #ad

I don't know about you, but when it comes to shopping for Mother's Day, I often feel overwhelmed. I like giving high-end, quality gifts to show my appreciation for the important moms in my life. However, I still have the hardest time picking out the right gift. No worries this year, CLEAN Body and Home Fragrances are here to save me from the shopping stress. Just the name "CLEAN" makes me feel good and I am sure the special moms in my life will agree. These premium products stand behind their name, CLEAN- Simple, Nostalgic and Conscious. The packaging is very attractive and is sure to make any mom feel extra special. 

I love the selection of fragrances- Warm Cotton, Air, Cool Cotton, Skin and Rain, Fresh Laundry and more. They are soothing yet invigorating at the same time. The Warm Cotton is the BEST! I love how simple and clean it smells (pun intended).

Let Mom find her own unique scent with the CLEAN Rollerball Collection which includes 5 scents; each can be worn alone or layered for a new experience. I personally love to mix fragrances, so this is perfect for me. 

PRICING: $18.00 / 5 x .17 Fl. Oz.

Availability: CleanPerfume.com

The CLEAN Warm Cotton Home Collection candle and reed diffuser are perfect for moms who love a fragrance-filled room. After all of the stresses of the day, these are perfect items to create a calm and peaceful aroma in any room. CLEAN Home Fragrances scents include; Warm Cotton, Rain, Skin and Fresh Laundry. I am putting the Fresh Laundry scent collection on my wish list. I am a sucker for that type of fragrance!

PRICING:
Home Candle: $40.00 / 7.5 Oz.
Home Reed Diffuser: $42.00 / 5.0 Fl. Oz.
Home Linen & Room Spray: $34.00 / 5.75 Fl. Oz.
AVAILABILITY: CleanPerfume.com

If you are searching for luxury items for mom, look no further. CLEAN Body and Home Fragrances have you covered. Be sure to follow CLEAN on Facebook and Twitter for product promotions and updates.

I received product samples in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own as always. 

Feb 13th is Valentine’s for Dogs – Say I LOVE YOU with treats! #ValentinesForDogs (Giveaway)

It's officially the Valentine's season and we give flowers, chocolates and gifts with those we love the most. Of course, we can't forget our fur babies. Dogs give so much unconditional love to their families that we must give some love back. This year, let's celebrate our wonderful animal companions by making February 13th Valentine's Day For Dogs (#valentinesfordogs).  On this day, we make sure we're also giving our pups the attention they deserve. How? I might take them out for a special walk at their favorite dog park, buy them a fluffy and comfy pet bed, or give them Milk-Bone dog treats. The good folks at Milk-Bone, Pup-Peroni, Milo's Kitchen, and Canine Carry Outs have made it easy for you this year with a doggie Valentine's Day card.

Aren't these cards adorable? Aside from my dog, I think the neighbor's dogs would appreciate a special Valentine's treat from their dog buddy.  Get yours today at https://www.bigheartpetvalentines.com/  They are super easy to download and print. All you do is cut them out, insert a special treat and share with your favorite dog pals.

Also, check out this fun info graphic with hilarious findings about pets and their pet parents. It is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

If you participate in any Valentine's activities with you dog, be sure to share on social media using the #ValentinesForDogs hashtag directed at @milkbone.

How would you like to win an assortment of treats to spoil your pup with? Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on February 18, 2015. Winner will be contacted via email to claim prize. Mom Files does not directly ship prizes and is NOT responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

Disclosure: I received a prize pack in exchange for spreading the word about the doggy Valentine's from Milk-Bone and hosting a reader giveaway. All opinions are my own. 

Super Cute Gifts Every New Mom Needs #HolidayGifts

The festive season is the perfect time to show people how much you care about them. If you have a friend, who has recently become a mommy, you might want to do something a little special. We all know how intense the first few months of motherhood can be. Your friend needs your support now more than ever. With Christmas just around the corner, why not treat your friend? Here are some super cute gift ideas for new moms.

1. A Spa Day 

Everyone needs to relax when they have a newborn. It is likely that your friend isn't get all that much sleep these days. Has she had a day off yet? If not, she needs one. Why not treat her by booking her and her partner a spa day? You can offer to look after their baby so that the couple can spend some quality time together. Having relaxing massages and treatments will rejuvenate your friend's energy levels. It will also give her and her partner a chance to celebrate being parents for a moment.

2. A Baby Keepsake Box

In the first year of a baby's life, so many things happen. A great way to make memories is to create a keepsake box for your baby. If your friend doesn't have a cute keepsake box, yet, you might want to consider getting her one. That way, she can remember all the big moments in her baby's life. You can get keepsake boxes online at sites like My 1st Years. Explain to your friend what she has to do with the box.

3. Cute Slippers

As a new mommy, your friend will be spending a lot of her time around the house. Since it is winter, you should get her some cozy, cute slippers. Comfort will be your friend's top priority. That means that she will need to be comfortable all the time. Getting some slippers that she will adore is the perfect present. You should look for slippers that have a fluffy lining inside them so that they are super warm throughout the winter.

4. Jewelry

New mothers need a lot of stuff for their baby, but sometimes, they need things for themselves too. It is nice to treat your friend with a gift that has nothing to do with her child. After all, she is a person too. She doesn't stop being an individual the moment she has a baby. You should consider getting your friend a lovely friendship bracelet or necklace. Getting your friend something just for her shows her how much you care.

5. A Cover-Up Top

We all know it. After women have babies, they struggle to get back into shape. Your friend is likely self-conscious about her current body shape. Get your friend a fashionable cover-up top so that she can cover her lumps and bumps. Tops with extra material that are floaty work well to hide parts of the body. Choose a top that comes in just below the bust, but flows out from there. That way, it will make your friend look like she has a tiny waist.

6. Relaxation Candles

Everybody needs some time to relax after they have given birth. You can pick up some cute, aromatherapy candles in any home store or online. Make sure you choose scents that your friend will like so that the candles suit her. Ask her what her favorite scents are and choose candles accordingly. You might even want to get some incense and body oils so that your friend can create a spa experience at home. There are loads of books on massage and treatments that might also be perfect.

Holiday Gift Guide: Keep your feet extra comfy with #ISOTONER Signature Slippers #ad

I have been a house slipper wearer for almost 3 decades now. They are a must when I am standing up to wash dishes, cook and other household chores. Wearing the right slippers is very important since my feet really need the extra support. The ISOTONER Signature line offers me exactly what I need. The  ISOTONER Signature Women's Woodlands Sonja Microsuede Hoodback Slippers are very cute and boy do they feel super comfy and warm! They come in a variety of colors: Ash, Black, Buckskin, Chili Pepper, Chocolate, Navy Blue and Vino. 

I have them in black and I just love how they look. My feet feel like they are wrapped in a warm blanket with added cushion. 

I went away to Myrtle Beach recently and I was so glad I packed my ISOTONER Sonja slippers in my bag. They are so cute oceanfront, aren't they?

Details:

- Comfortable hoodback slipper silhouette
- Supple faux fur lining
- Experience the overall style and comfort of ISOTONER Signature Woodlands slippers, inspired by your favorite vacation escape
- Woodlands slippers offer great colors, plush detailing and comfort-to-go styling
- ResponsIV™ Memory Foam Plus molds to your feet for comfort
- Extra EVA heel cushion to absorb impact
- Durable indoor/outdoor sole

I really do love how durable the sole is because I can run out to the mailbox or let the dog out without having to change into traditional shoes. These slippers are truly the best ones I have ever owned. I have had several pairs in the past by Isotoner, but these are my favorite. I have hinted around to my daughters that I need the navy blue and vino so I don't wear out my black ones too fast. ISOTONER slippers make the perfect holiday gift and I am sure Mom would agree! You can find them at a variety of retail stores as well as on the ISOTONER website. They sell for $30, but are currently on sale for $19.99 on the website. As a matter of fact, since most of the slippers are on sale right now, this is a great time to buy a practical gift for the women in your life or even for yourself. My daughters keep eyeing mine so Santa might just drop a pair off in their stockings.

Connect with ISOTONER on Facebook for product promotions and updates.

I received a complimentary pair of ISOTONER slippers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own as always. 

Choosing Christening Decorations for a Main Table

If you'll be celebrating your baby's christening soon you should think about decorating the celebration you'll have with friends and family after the religious ceremony. Christening-related table decor will not only make the dining area more appealing, but will serve as an elegant reminder of the reason why everyone gathered.

Things to consider when choosing appropriate christening decorations:

Size of baptism favors and decorations
Select christening decorations for the table and make sure they are noticeable, but not too overwhelming when it comes to the size. For example, if you have invited not so many guests and have a square table, then a small collection of rosaries with rose petals will do perfectly. For a larger number of people, you can decorate the table with a pair of ceramic doves and ceramic replica of a cross. They would look great as symbols of peace and love.

Color palette of the party
Mostly, it's preferred to use white color palette for christening decorations, because this particular color symbolizes the beginning of something positive and purity. But, on the contrary, it is allowed to complement the white tablecloth with silver or gold accents to add the peculiar elegant touch – this is referred to the tableware or table flowers. For example, place a bouquet of white roses in a silver vase.

Significance must be emphasized through unique christening decorations
Make sure that the major christening table decoration is remarkably memorable. For example, enlarge the infant’s photo and then frame it in a silver or golden frame to make an awesome table centerpiece. Designers also recommend decorating the table with white, gold and silver banners displaying the baby's name and the date of the christening ceremony.
Make sure your christening decorations for the table have a personal touch. Do not just copy the magazines or your friends’ christening parties – this party has to be individual so do not be afraid to add your own ideas and homemade christening decorations for the table.

SOL REPUBLIC Master Tracks Over-Ear Headphones Perfect for Mom or Dad (Review & Giveaway)

**WINNER-- Thomas Murphy- Congratulations!**

As the month of April comes to a close, it's time to start thinking about Mother's Day and Father's Day. For so many of us, it seems like you run out of gift ideas for the special moms and dads in your life. I always look for something that they wouldn't necessarily purchase for themselves because they are always working hard and giving so much to everyone else. Mom and dad deserve to be spoiled! I have a great gift suggestion that is sure to please any mom or dad, SOL REPUBLIC Master Tracks Over-Ears Headphones.

These headphones are the perfect to help mom or dad "get away" from the hustle and bustle of the day. They truly will change the way you listen to music! The Master Tracks are the most comfortable headphones I have ever tried. They have extra soft speaker pads for a more enjoyable listening experience. The sound quality is superior and really allows you to relax and enjoy your music without interruption. As a matter of fact, you will hear every single note! Oh my, truly the most amazing listening experience ever! You can easily plug them into your iPad, iPhone or iPod and zone out. These are prefect for me to take with me in the school pickup line and even comes with a convenient carrying case. Just a warning, these headphones can cause maximum relaxation and should be kept away from prying teenagers :)

Some product details of the SOL REPUBLIC Master Tracks Over-Ear Headphones:

• Interchangeable Headbands
• Headband is virtually indestructible. Constructed of an advanced polymer compound, the FlexTech™ Sound Track headband is built to withstand heavy abuse. Twist it, bend it, drop it - it’s not going to break.
• SONICSOFT™ Speaker Pads- Listen In Comfort & Isolation Supple, noise-isolating ear cushions let you enjoy your music in comfort for hours.
• 3-Button Mic+Music Control- Adjust the volume, pause/resume/skip music and answer/hang-up calls. The high clarity mic captures every word possible. 
• X3 Sound Engine- Master Tracks X3 Sound Engine Speakers deliver an immersive music experience balanced with powerful bass, clear highs and supreme vocal accuracy.
• Comes in 3 colors- Electro Blue, Gunmetal and White. 
• Retail price: $199.99 

For the mom or dad on-the-go, you might consider the SOL REPUBLIC Relays. These ear buds are easy to put in and won't fall out. They would be great for the parent who is very active. Retail price is $79.99.

You can find SOL REPUBLIC products on their site and connect with them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for products updates and promotions.

How would you like to win a pair of these SOL REPUBLIC Master Tracks Over-Ear Headphones? One very lucky Mom Files reader will win a pair!! Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on May 4, 2014. Please follow giveaway rules in Rafflecopter widget. One winner will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

I received complimentary products in exchange for an honest review. No additional compensation was received and all opinions are my own. 

Whish Three Whishes Body Butter Review

I received a complimentary product sample for review purposes. All opinions are my own as always. 

Do you treat yourself? As a busy mom, I often forget about myself with all the tasks I juggle on a daily basis. School drop-off/pick-up, sports, housework, cooking, managing the home... I am almost always last on the list when it comes to pampering or treating myself. One nice way to get that in is often through simple things like beauty products. It is amazing what a new lipstick or nail polish can do for me.

I received a luxurious bottle of Whish Three Whishes Body Butter to review. The packaging is so pretty. The antioxidant-based formula contains organic aloe, organic Shea butter and organic raspberry butter. How delicious does that sound? I couldn't wait to pump some out of the container to experience this body butter for myself. It has a very creamy feel, but not heavy like your typical body butter. The lavender scent was very rich and feminine. I applied it to my entire body and it left me feeling so soft and pampered. It gave the heavy moisturizing you expect from a body butter without the oily feel.

Whish Three Whishes Body Butter is available in a 5 ounce container for $24 and can be purchased at Nordstrom.com. It comes in 6 gorgeous flavors: Almond, Lemongrass, Pomegranate, Lavender, Coconut and Blueberry. I see the coconut and almond in my future! I truly deserve this type of luxury in my life.

With Mother's Day coming up, this would be a great gift idea. I promise, this is a gift any mom would love. After all, doesn't mom deserve the best? Stay connected socially with Whish on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for products updates and promotions.

Check out the Minted 2013 Holiday Card Collection

I feel like the holiday season has gotten here so quickly and it almost feels like time is running out. I do my best to always show family and friends that I am thinking about them at Christmas and New Year's through a greeting card. Nothing says "I care" more than personal photos and sweet messages. Minted offers so many options for every taste from their 2013 holiday card collection. We did not have time to take any organized holiday photos this year so I thought about a collage of photos from different occasions we took throughout the year. I think this one below would be a great choice. I love how you can personalize your family's name as well as the colors.

I have noticed the hot trend in holiday cards have been the Ornament cards. How adorable is this one? Makes me wish everyone sent these out! They would be so cute in our Christmas tree.

Minted.com has such a user friendly platform. It makes the stress of ordering cards less of a headache. I love the variety, color options and styles. There is still plenty of time to order those cards. Check out Minted on the web, Facebook and Twitter.

I will receive a thank you code redeemable for items from Minted.com for spreading the word about their 2013 Holiday Card Collection. 

No Fireplace for Santa to get in on Christmas? No Problem!

I received a fabulous book and key set entitled, "The Magic Christmas Key". The concept behind the Magic Key is a way for Santa to get into your home in the event there is no fireplace. It is great for kids with a fireplace who question how hard it might be for Santa to squeeze through such a small space (like my son). Keep reading for more details...

Wendell August www.wendellaugust.com, maker of heirloom-quality personalized metal gifts to commemorate life’s special moments, is proud to bring the tradition of Santa’s Magic Key to children across the globe.

For centuries, Santa Claus has used fireplaces as the main point of entry in homes across the world. Using rooftops to land, chimneys have been crucial in getting gifts to millions of good boys and girls. However, recent years have brought problems, leaving Mr. Claus to seek alternatives. “With time comes change. Fewer families have fireplaces these days,” said Mr. Claus, “so my elves and I had to react.” New homes built without a fireplace have risen from 34% in 1990, to 49% in 2009; the number is believed to be even higher today. Kept secret for decades, Santa and his elves have developed a little magic to solve this modern day problem…Santa’s Magic Key.

Instructions: Hang Santa’s Magic Key on your front doorknob on Christmas Eve, enabling Santa to get inside your house when you don’t have a fireplace…the coals in the fire are too hot…or Santa has had a few too many Christmas cookies to fit down the chimney! When Santa has finished his Christmas Eve visit, he will place the key on your Christmas tree to be ready for next year.

To take the tradition even further, read the book about the Magic Key, entitled “The Magic Christmas Key.” It’s a story about a young boy named Andy, his trusty dog Rufus and his loveable family. He goes on a marvelous adventure that starts with the gift of Santa’s Magic Key and ends with some sound advice from Santa himself.

The Magic Key is so pretty and very good quality. I can see this being in my family for many years to come and will be passed down to my kids for their future children.  

“Santa’s Magic Key is a special gift that can be passed down from generation to generation,” says Will Knecht, President of Wendell August. “It’s a heartwarming family tradition that reminds us that ‘All things are possible when you believe.’”

Where to get it:
The Magic Key and book are sold separately or together. Santa’s Magic Key is 5 ½” long, is hand cast and made of pewter and retails for $25. “The Magic Christmas Key,” written by Leann Smith and illustrated by Kip Richmond, is a 10 x 10” hardcover book and is available with the Magic Key in a keepsake box. The book and Magic Key sold together retail for $39.

To start your own family tradition of the Magic Key and “The Magic Christmas Key” book, you can click here, or find it in Wendell August stores, select specialty shops, or select Bed Bath and Beyond locations nationwide. *Graph data from Census Bureau

About Wendell August Forge
A time-honored tradition of hand-crafted elegance for nearly 90 years, Wendell August Forge makes heirloom-quality personalized metal pieces to commemorate life’s special moments. Our American-made high-quality, functional gifts fit within any budget and can be found at store locations, www.wendellaugust.com and more than 400 gift shops nationwide. We also make customized metal awards, commemoratives, gifts, and trophies for businesses, organizations, and sporting groups. Visit www.wendellaugust.biz for more information

Dear Santa, Please give me SOL REPUBLIC On-Ear Tracks Headphones for Christmas! (Giveaway)

**CLOSED**

The winner is T.P. Jefferson~ Congratulations! 

Do you have music, movie or game lovers in your life? Are you looking for the perfect gift? Look no more; SOL REPUBLIC On-Ear Tracks Headphones are the answer! These sleek, attractive headphones offer amazing sound quality and comfort. The first thing that really stuck out to me was how pretty they are. Even my manly-man husband agreed that they are really nice looking.

They come in a variety of colors and I received a pair in white. You can even purchase the Track headbands separately if you like to switch them up according to your mood or even outfit! I noticed the SOL REPUBLIC site even offers some college team headbands. The headband is constructed of an advanced polymer compound and is built to withstand heavy abuse. Twist it, bend it, drop it - it’s not going to break!

The speaker pads are super soft and very comfortable to wear. The are noise-isolating and provide peace and privacy when you are trying to listen in solitude. My husband totally loves that part! The sound quality is superb and I tested how good they are next to my son watching a movie in surround sound. The Tracks headphones seemed to block out any sound and I could only hear my music from my iPhone. Amazing! I like the 3-button mic+music control. Overall these the best headphones I have ever tried out. You can check out other SOL REPUBLIC products on the web, Facebook and Twitter. I noticed that the Tracks are on sale right now at Target.

How would you like to win a pair of SOL REPUBLIC On-Ear Tracks Headphones to put under the tree?!  Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on December 10, 2013. One winner will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email to claim prize.  Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

I received a free product sample in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and no other compensation was received.

Give the Gift of Happiness this Holiday Season with Kohl’s Cares Classic Peanuts Storybooks

Give the gift that will leave the whole family grinning from ear-to-ear this holiday season with delightful and affordable gifts from the Kohl’s Cares merchandise collection the beloved Peanuts storybooks by renowned author Charles M. Schulz . Now through the end of December, Kohl’s is offering exclusive hardcover editions of Peanuts classics, including A Charlie Brown Christmas, You Can Be Anything, Be Yourself!, Happiness is a Warm Blanket, Charlie Brown, a 2-pack of Happiness is a Warm Puppy and Christmas is Together, along with coordinating plush toys, for just $5 each through the Kohl’s Cares cause merchandise program.

Kids and parents alike will cherish the time spent snuggling up with these nostalgic story books, and everyone can feel good knowing that Kohl’s donates 100 percent of the net profit to children’s health and education initiatives nationwide. Since the program began in 2000, the Kohl’s Cares philanthropic program has raised more than $231 million for children’s health and education programs in local communities across the country.

In addition, Kohl’s has something to help everyone get in the holiday spirit and spread Christmas cheer this year:

Holiday Cheer: Make sure the halls are decked and everyone is jolly this holiday season with the perfect book for holiday recipes, decorating, entertaining and gift ideas. The go-to holiday handbook this season is filled with tips and tricks from Good Housekeeping, Redbook & Country Living, makes the perfect hostess gift for holiday parties and festivities.

Upon the Winter Solstice: Trans-Siberian Orchestra CD: Delight in the holiday spirit with the sounds of this year’s CD from the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Grab one for the car, the home and the office to spread the holiday cheer!

Peanuts Jigsaw Puzzle: Wrap up in a blanket, pour a cup of cocoa and get to work assembling a jigsaw puzzle with artwork from the classic Peanuts storybooks. It is the perfect stocking stuffer this holiday season.

Buying for Baby: Adorable Babygrows

There’s nothing nicer than buying for baby, provided it doesn’t break the bank of course! Don’t let a big shock at the tills ruin your purchasing pleasure – it’s perfectly possible to find adorable babygrows, bodysuits and more at teeny, tiny prices.

The humble supermarket is one place to find great deals on all the basics needed to kit out your tiniest tots. George at ASDA has a fantastic range of cheap yet cheerful essentials from ‘tiny baby’ size upwards, helping you to keep the cost of this expensive time manageable.

Buying baby essentials from the supermarket is also a fantastic time-saving option for busy mums. Simply throw baby’s new wardrobe additions in the basket or trolley while you shop – or shop online at ADSA Direct if braving the supermarket seems too much of a daunting prospect with your precious newborn.

What to Buy?

Babygrows
There’s no need to spend lots on little outfits for a very young baby – as tempting as it may be. Little ones love to be comfortable, and soft, comfy outfits are perfect for sleeping, rolling, sitting and crawling in. Babygrows (or sleepsuits as they are also known) are ideal not only for night time, but also for casual days spent relaxing at home. They are also great for putting on under a pramsuit or snowsuit for cosy and comfortable trips out in the pram.

As your little one grows, simple babygrows are ideal to wear at night. They’re unable to ride up like pyjamas, keep feet warm and cosy and have easy popper openings to make those night time nappy changes a doddle.

Pretty, detailed babygrows are great for showing off in the daytime, so stock up on sweet patterns and fun character designs. When it comes to nightwear babygrows, fleece is a good choice of material for winter – it will keep baby snugly, warm and cosy (although be careful to check baby for signs of overheating).

Bodysuits
Bodysuits are another baby wardrobe essential, and are likely to be worn under every outfit until your tot is out of nappies. Like a vest, but fastening under the nappy, a bodysuit adds an extra layer of warmth and comfort. During the summertime they also make ideal nightwear, to keep baby cool yet covered.
There’s really no need to spend a lot on patterned or character design bodysuits, as they are worn under clothes the majority of the time so not seen. In summer, you could however pair a bodysuit with a little skirt or pair of shorts, for a cute yet cool and comfortable hot weather outfit.

Outfits
Of course, you’re likely to want to buy some sweet little outfits for those special occasions, days out or trips to playgroup. Keep your baby’s comfort in mind with soft fabrics and designs that allow for flexibility of movement and your baby can look great without feeling hindered by cumbersome clothing.

Enjoy shopping for your baby but don’t let the basics break the bank. Choose quality baby essentials from the supermarket for the easy way to fill baby’s wardrobe with adorable babygrows, bodysuits and more!

Sponsored post/I was compensated for this article

"Flavor It" Review & Giveaway

I am such a big fan of kitchen gadgets. I received a neat item from Primula Products called Flavor It Pitcher 3-in-1 Beverage System. You can make a wide variety of amazing infused beverages using just about any ingredient you want.  You can make fruit flavored teas, water, wine, even iced coffee! The only limit is your imagination!

The beverage system includes:

• Flavor Infuser - can be filled with fresh fruit, herbs, or spices to lend intriguing flavor notes to water, tea, punch, and more. Creating a multitude of beverage options from cucumber lime drinks to blueberry iced tea, to sangria and more. 
• Stainless Steel Tea Infuser - designed to brew loose tea or ground coffee, either hot or cold. The infuser's filter sits low in the pitcher, accommodating small quantities as well as a full pitcher. 
• Chill Core - filled with non-toxic gel, it is better than ice because it keeps the beverage cool without diluting the flavor.

I decided to test it out over the weekend and decided on fruit infused water. My daughters are big on fruit flavored water so we took a vote and went with peach and lime. I added slices of peaches and limes into the Flavor Infuser and added filtered water the pitcher.

I love the design of the pitcher because it fits perfectly in my fridge door. This frees up more space for bulky milk jugs and other drinks. I let the fruit infuse overnight and we all tasted the water. It was fantastic and very refreshing! I plan to make sangria this coming weekend and will use red wine with a mixture of fresh fruit. My 16 year old is looking forward to make some vanilla flavored iced coffee. I really love that you can tighten the lid to close it to reduce spills. The pitcher itself is BPA-free, dishwasher safe, scratch resistant, shatter proof and  stain resistant. 

The Flavor It Pitcher 3-in-1 Beverage System would make a great wedding, anniversary, hostess or holiday gift. Check out Primula Products on the web, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

How would you like to win one? One lucky Momfiles reader will win the Flavor It Pitcher 3-in-1 Beverage System. Enter in the Rafflecopter widget:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on October 25, 2012. One winner will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

I received a product sample for review purposes. All thoughts/opinions are 100% my own as always.