Review and Giveaway: Oralcryst Junior CLOSED

My son may not have slept through the night until he was 13 months old and he may have a fiery temper but one area where I've been lucky is oral care. I don't really have to fight with him to brush his teeth. While he's excellent at getting the front and sides clean, the back teeth can be troublesome to reach, and he's not always patient enough to sit still for Mommy when she tries to assist him. I worry that over time his molars will be susceptible to cavities, a common childhood ailment. So, when I was contacted to review Oralcryst Junior, I thought it could be just the trick to protect those pearly whites.

Oralcryst Junior is a revolutionary new, sugar-free hard candy from Japan, designed for toddlers with fully erupted molars and older children. It is formulated with four effective ingredients to help kids naturally wash and chew away cavity-causing bacteria and optimize oral health:

• Ovalgen DC - a natural food ingredient that contains livetin (immunoglobulins) from egg yolk that helps maintain teeth health
• Xylitol - a sugar substitute that inhibits the growth of Mutan S. bacteria and helps to neutralize acidic conditions in the mouth that lead to tooth decay
• Calcium - an essential mineral to build and maintain strong bones and teeth
• Vitamin D3 - aids absorption of Calcium

Oralcryst Junior contains no preservatives or artificial flavors. As your child chews the candy, these ingredients work together to break down plaque, strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the risk of early dental cavity development. The extra saliva produced while chewing washes the bacteria away so there's no need to rinse. Kids think they are eating a tasty candy and parents rest easy knowing their teeth are in tip-top shape!

Here is a graphic representation of how Oralcryst Junior works to prevent cavities:

(Please note Oralcryst Junior will not cure existing cavities but works to prevent further damage.)

I was sent an assortment of Oralcryst Junior flavors to try including Orange, Grape, Strawberry and Green Apple.

Now, I don't make a habit of giving Nate candy, especially hard candy. Not only because of the choking risk but because I don't want him to develop a preference for sweets. However, the dental benefits of Oralcryst Junior made me feel less guilty so I saw this as a good experiment. The candies are smaller than the size of a dime and even though Nate could probably chew them easily himself, I break them in half just in case. I figure you can never be too careful!

The directions say to offer 2-4 candies after brushing (no more than 8 per day) so I chose to go with the lower end of the spectrum. I gave Nate 2 candies each after his morning and nighttime brushing. He loved them! He devoured all of the flavors with equal enthusiasm, and would even ask for more! I think his favorite flavor was the sweet Strawberry. My personal favorite was the tangy Green Apple. The only flavor I didn't care for was Grape, which I found to be a little chalky, but Nate didn't seem to mind. He loves having a "treat" after brushing or eating and I love that it won't hurt - but will help - his teeth. I also love that all of the candies are white in color so they are non-staining, even when my little man becomes a drool monster. I may not be able to visibly see results but I feel comfortable that the health of his teeth will be maintained through his first visit to the dentist and beyond.

I think Oralcryst Junior is a great way to ensure optimum dental health in young children who are unable to brush completely and precisely. And since our babes aren't aware that it is actually good for them, you can also use these candies in place of M&M's or other confections for positive reinforcement during potty training or other activities! Keep in mind, if your child is allergic to milk or egg products, you will want to avoid this product.

BUY IT: You can purchase Oralcryst Junior online at www.oralcryst.com (ARV $3.99/40-ct. pouch or $14.99/4-pk.). Keep your eye out for the minty adult version coming soon!

WIN IT: The folks at Oralcryst Junior are oh so generously giving away 10 multi-packs to 10 lucky readers!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Head on over to the Oralcryst website and tell me something you learned while you were there. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog and/or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry each)

2.) Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You can do this daily! You may use the following tweet or come up with one of your own:

Protect your child's pearly whites with Oralcryst Junior sugar-free candies @kris10chumley 10 winners! Ends 7/10 http://bit.ly/b4P1Sl

Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry per day max)

3.) Add my button to your site and comment with a link where I can find it. (1 entry)

4.) Become a fan of the Oralcryst Club on Facebook. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on July 10, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. residents 18+ only. Winner will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: As noted above, I received a variety pack of Oralcryst Junior from Nan at Oralcryst in exchange for my honest review. I was in no other way compensated for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed are purely mine. Your experience may differ. Oralcryst does NOT take the place of regular brushing. It is meant to be a preventative measure and will not cure existing cavities.

Review and Giveaway: Inspired by Finn CLOSED

My son was a fairly early teether. He sprouted his first tooth just two days after he turned six months old and from then on, it seemed like he would have a new chomper pop up every week. It's been ten months since his one-year molars popped through but as his second birthday draws near, I know the second-year molars are on their way. I am so not looking forward to the crankiness, the fevers and the sleepless nights. But upon discovering Inspired by Finn, I'm hoping it will be a little smoother the next time around.

Inspired by Finn sells handmade, authentic Baltic Amber and hazelwood jewelry for adults and children. Baltic Amber has been used for centuries in Europe as a natural remedy for many ailments. When Baltic Amber is worn on the skin, the body's warmth releases trace amounts of healing oils that are then absorbed into the skin. These oils contain succinic acid, a natural component of plant and animal tissues that relieves pain, increases immunity, restores energy and maintains overall wellness. Similarly, hazelwood neutralizes the body's acidity and prevents ulcers, acid reflux, heartburn, skin problems (psoriasis, eczema, acne), arthritis, nausea, migraines, dental cavities and more.

Inspired by Finn was kind enough to send me a Baltic Amber teething necklace to review.

I was amazed by their colossal selection. They had chip, round, rectangle, teardrop, pendant and bean bead styles - not to mention a plethora of colors to choose from. After careful consideration, I decided to go with the Pumpkin & Butter Round Necklace. (Doesn't that just sound yummy?)

When it arrived, I was in love. The colors were even prettier in person than they were online. I wanted to wear it myself! I will admit I was a bit nervous ordering a beaded necklace for a toddler. Normally, this would spell disaster. But after seeing how each bead is individually double-knotted on the strand, I felt totally secure having my son wear it. The string is also designed to stretch with pressure and will break if necessary so there is virtually no risk of strangulation. Very comforting, indeed!

The 14" size fits Nate perfectly. It lays close enough to his neck that it is comfortable yet he can't get the beads into his mouth. The screw clasp is hidden beautifully under the beads. I love that it is very easy to manipulate, even when it's on my busy toddler. He looks very "handsome surfer dude" in it. Didn't you know?! Real men wear Baltic Amber teething necklaces.




I love that we have this homeopathic option to soothe common discomforts such as teething or tummy troubles. It is so much more favorable than pumping Motrin down his throat, especially after the whole McNeill recall. I think I want to get a Baltic Amber anklet in Two Colors - Light for myself and a Hazelwood and Hematite necklace for my husband, who battles GERD. Not only does Inspired by Finn make you look good, but they make you FEEL good too!

BUY IT: Want one for yourself or your little one? Head on over to www.inspiredbyfinn.com to purchase your own amber or hazelwood jewelry (ARV $9.95 - $33.95).

DELICOUS DISCOUNT: Use promo code "BLOG101" at checkout to receive 20% off your purchase - good on anything in their store!

WIN IT: One lucky GGG reader is going to win their own Baltic Amber teething necklace (16" or shorter, in stock only)! A $16-22 value!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Visit Inspired by Finn and tell me which necklace (style and color) you would choose if you won. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog and/or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry each)

2.) Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You can do this daily! You may use the following tweet or come up with one of your own:

Heal the homeopathic way with a Baltic Amber Teething Necklace from Inspired by Finn @kris10chumley! ENDS 7/7 http://bit.ly/aIXkaT

Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry per day max)

3.) Add my button to your site and comment with a link where I can find it. (1 entry)

4.) Become a fan of Inspired by Finn on Facebook. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on July 7, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. residents 18+ only. Winner will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: I received a free Baltic Amber teething necklace from Inspired by Finn in exchange for an honest review. I was in no other way compensated for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed are solely mine. Your experience may differ. This information does not replace doctor's advice. If you suspect you suffer from a chronic condition, please consult a physician.

Review and Giveaway: All Terrain Co. CLOSED

Mid-May marks the beginning of camping season for our household. I'm more of an "indoor girl" myself but since I am surrounded by testosterone, it is only fair that I buck up, break out the flannel and explore the wilderness. Plus, since we already own the equipment, it's a cheap vacation when we need a spontaneous getaway. Can't beat that.

Last June, before his first birthday, we took Nate to the Virginia mountains for his first camping trip. I knew that the humid weather would welcome all sorts of parasites and creepy crawlies but I didn't want to trade protection for toxicity. As I researched eco-friendly alternatives, I discovered All Terrain Co.

All Terrain's mission is to sell quality "natural remedies for outdoor enthusiasts". They also aim to increase awareness of environmental issues and promote environmental conservation. All of their products contain all-natural ingredients and their packaging is made from recycled material, recyclable and/or biodegradable. Although they still have a long way to go, All Terrain Co. strives for "net zero consumption".

I wound up purchasing the Kids Herbal Armor Spray (ARV $7.99) for our trip. This spray is 100% DEET-free and prevents insect bites with a unique blend of five natural, essential oils. It is clinically proven to be 100% effective for over two hours, 95.8% effective for over three hours and 77.1% effective for four hours.

After we arrived and set up camp, we went for a walk and I forgot to bring along the spray. No big deal, I thought, as the bugs weren't out in full force. We went down to the lake so Daddy could fish and I noticed a dark speck on the nape of Nate's neck (he inherited Mommy's pale skin so any dark spots are very noticeable). I thought it was just dirt and went to brush it away when I realized it was a tick! It's head had already embedded in his skin and I started to freak out. Thankfully, we had tweezers on hand and we were able to wrangle Nate long enough to get it out. But you can bet your bottom dollar that I immediately grabbed our All Terrain Herbal Armor and never left without it again!

The smell is a little on the strong side so if you are sensitive to the scent of citronella, you probably won't be fond of this. But we never saw another tick again the entire weekend! We also came home with no bug bites whatsoever, even though we only reapplied every 4-6 hours. So, I am a believer! All Terrain Co. has found a fan in me.

I was delighted to have the opportunity to review two more All Terrain products from their Kids Care line.

Nate is going through a bit of a daredevil phase as of late. His fearlessness (and obliviousness to hard objects in his path) has led to quite the number of boo-boos. All Terrain's Skin Soother Gel (ARV $6.99) has really come in handy. It protects against cuts, scrapes and burns and helps to relieve dry, chapped or cracked skin. We apply it everytime Nate takes a tumble - after washing the wound but before bandaging - and it is great. It goes on clear and has a light, pleasant aloe smell. His cuts and scrapes tend to fade faster now. And best of all, it's natural! Who needs Neosporin?! This would also be great to guard against chafing (ugh, those wet swimsuits!) or to use in cooler climates to counter the drying effects of wind and cold.

As you all know, Nate suffers from mild to moderate eczema and has since he was born. My poor little crocodile baby! I decided to try All Terrain's Eczeam Cream (ARV $7.99), which uses colloidal oatmeal to protect against eczema, minor skin irritation and itching. I love the thickness of the cream; a little goes a long way. It works fast to soothe the itch from his dry patches. But don't be fooled by the name - it's not just for eczema. You can use this to relieve psoriasis/rosacea, bug bites, sunburns, chicken pox, poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, etc., making this the perfect first aid accessory for camping or outdoor activities.

So far, I've been impressed with everything All Terrain Co. has to offer. Not only are they effective, but they are affordable too! You don't have to break the bank to go green anymore. Next, I'd like to try the antiseptic Kidswipes (made from wood pulp!) for those times when we need to get rid of goo on the go. They even have pet products so your four-legged family member can be protected too!

BUY IT: You can shop for All Terrain Co. products online or use their store locator to find the retailer(s) nearest you.

WIN IT: All Terrain Co. is generously offering one lucky reader his/her choice of product (kits not included) - up to a $12.99 value!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Visit All Terrain Co. and tell me which product you'd like to try. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog and/or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry each)

2.) Follow me and All Terrain Co. on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You can do this daily! You may use the tweet below or come up with one of your own:

Love the outdoors? Win your choice of natural first aid product from @AllTerrainCo and @kris10chumley! Ends 6/1 http://bit.ly/abbomO

Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry per day max)

3.) Become a fan of All Terrain Co. on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) Subscribe to the All Terrain Co. blog. (1 entry)

5.) Add my button to your site and comment with a link where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on June 1, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winner will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: I received the Eczeam Cream and Skin Soother Gel from Caitlin at True North Brand Group to facilitate my candid review. I purchased the Herbal Armor Bug Spray on my own prior to this opportunity. I was in no other way compensated for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are mine alone. Your experience may differ.

Review and Giveaway: KINeSYS Performance Sunscreen CLOSED

April showers bring May flowers and they also coax the sunshine out of its winter hibernation. I love warm weather but my son and I both have fair skin and have to be extra careful when outdoors to prevent burns and sun damage. Since we are quite active in the spring and summer with fishing, camping, swimming, walking/jogging, biking, etc., we need something that can protect us even when when we're at our most active. So, when I was contacted recently to review sunscreen, the timing couldn't have been better!

KINeSYS EarthKind Performance Sunscreens provide photo-stable, broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection while topical antioxidant Vitamin E scavenges cancer-causing free radicals. Their unique microspray technology makes for easy application and the gentle, quick-dry formula is no-mess and both water and sweat-resistant. Available in scented and fragrance-free versions, all KINeSYS products are hypoallergenic, non-comodogenic, oil-free, alcohol-free, PABA-free, preservative-free, vegan and cruelty-free (no animal testing). No parabens, nanoparticles, nuts, gluten, dairy, egg, soy, sulphites or colourants are added to their products. The bottles are also 100% recyclable! KINeSYS sunscreens have received numerous awards and recognition from prestigious parenting networks such as iParenting Media, Mom's Best and PTPA.

KINeSYS generously sent me a 1 oz. travel bottle of their SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray and a full-size 4 oz. bottle of their KIDS SPF 30 Spray to review.

Have you ever tried to wrangle a toddler away from the pool to reapply sunscreen? We've all been there. The creamy goop is so messy and it takes forever to rub in and absorb. Kids just don't have the patience to sit still for all that when there's fun to be had! Not to mention it is difficult for even the most precise parents to apply in sunburn-prone crevices or sensitive areas.

KINeSYS solves these problems with its spray design. Unlike other sunscreen sprays on the market, you don't have to rub this one in! You just spray the mist in a downward motion and let dry for 2-3 minutes. It's that easy! And if you prefer, you can spray the colorless liquid into your hand to cover little faces and ears. Check out their demo video for instructions on application.

This product is simply fantastic! I love that proper sun care no longer prompts a war between my son and I. He doesn't run away. Rather, he is intrigued by the colorful spray bottle. No stinging. No crying. No funky beach smell. No oozing. Just a few short bursts of spray and we're ready to play! Nate played outside with friends in our backyard for over 2 hours on an mid-80 degree day and had absolutely no redness when we came back inside. Which was amazing since he had been running around rampant, drenched in sweat:



I was so happy with Nate's results that I decided to put my other sample to the test. The compact spray bottle was perfect to throw in my purse. This particular version had a refreshing light mango scent - much better than the typical chemical sunscreens. Again, it was so easy to apply. I could probably put it on my whole body myself. No more fetching the hubby to "get my back"! I must admit I got a little trigger happy and accidentally sprayed it in my husband's eye. Oopsie! He said it didn't hurt at all - though that could be his tough, masculine bravado coming out. Nonetheless, we were very pleased with the results. No burns! I love that it dries fast, doesn't leave an oily residue behind and it doesn't clog my pores. It also makes me feel good to use a "green" sunscreen on my family.

The only aspect that may turn people off to KINeSYS initially is the price. A 1 oz. bottle goes for $6.99 and a 4 oz. bottle retails for $18.99 - which may sound outrageous for sunscreen. However, considering it will last over 170 or 700 sprays, respectively, you will definitely get your money's worth.

Bottom line: If you're looking for a simpler way to protect your family from the elements, KINeSYS is the way to go. The fun packaging makes you want to use it year-round, which is a good thing! Plus, the vast selection of products makes it easy to find something that will work for just about anyone - even the most demanding of athletes.

BUY IT: You can purchase KINeSYS products online at www.kinesysstore.com. You'll also want to check out their green tea and vanilla-scented sunscreen for girls and their skin care line!

WIN IT: One lucky reader is going to win a 4 oz. bottle of KINeSYS 15 SPF Performance Moisturizer and a 1 oz. travel bottle of KIDS SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray - a $26 value!



MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Take a look at what KINeSYS has to offer and tell me another product you'd like to try. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog and/or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry each)

2.) Follow me and KINeSYS on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You can do this daily! You may use the following tweet or come up with one of your own:

Stay safe in the sun with @KINeSYS_Inc sunscreen! Win a prize pack for your family from @kris10chumley Ends 5/20 http://bit.ly/afnALd

Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry per day max)

3.) Become a fan of KINeSYS on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) Add my button to your site and comment with a link where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on May 20, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winner will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: As noted above, I received two bottles of sunscreen from Christina at KINeSYS, Inc. to facilitate my candid review. I was in no other way compensated for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are mine alone. Your experience may differ.

Review: Little Twig

Thank you to Little Twig for participating in the Goodie Goodie Gumdrops Earth Week Event!

Bathtime is one of my son's favorite activities. There's just something about the warm water that elicits smiles and inspires creativity. The only thing that puts a damper on our fun is reading the ingredient labels on the bottles of some of our bath products. Even those that claim to be "pure" or "hypoallergenic" can contain SLS, PEG's and/or Quaternium-15. Not exactly stuff I want to slather on my toddler. So, as I searched for a truly safe and natural bubble bath, I was delighted to discover Little Twig. One peek at their philosophy and I knew this was something special.

Children mean the world to us, and the world means everything to our children. That is why Little Twig products are developed with the advice of pediatricians and real-life parents. At Little Twig we want to provide families with a safe and natural bath time alternative. We utilize the most effective organic and botanical ingredients in our simple recipe for pure and gentle personal care. Each product is an example of our commitment to quality, and that is why we completely guarantee each product.

I love a company who truly cares about our children and the environment - not just a bottom line. Some more benefits of Little Twig include:

• Made with organic and natural ingredients
• Pediatrician tested
• Non-irritating
• Paraben and SLS-free
• Made in USA
• Not tested on animals
• Hypoallergenic
• No synthetic fragrances
• Phthalate-free
• No artificial colors
• Recyclable packaging

Just check out these adorable bath mitts, as if the products themselves aren't cute enough:



I especially love the Little Twig recycling program. Simply return four full-sized, empty containers and you'll receive 30% off your next online purchase! Rewards for reducing waste? Count me in!

Little Twig was kind enough to send me a sample bottle of their unscented baby wash (ARV $9.99/8.5 oz.) and a full-size bottle of unscented bodymilk (ARV $11.49/8.5 oz.).



Normally, I prefer scented products because I can't resist a sweet smell. Perhaps its my X chromosome? But since they tend to dry out Nate's eczema-prone skin, I opted for the fragrance-free version. I thought I'd miss the fruity/flowery/powdery smells but honestly, I didn't. The unscented formulas left my boy smelling just like his natural self. That is irresistible enough.

The baby wash had a rich lather with just a dime-sized amount and rinsed off easily, leaving no film or residue. Only a fresh, clean baby. The bodymilk was even better. The lotion was thick and creamy, with no sticky feeling afterward. The pump bottle makes for easy, no-mess application and the smooth, satiny feel lasted what seemed like forever. No more dry patches. Here is my munchkin enjoying his Little Twig fun-filled bath:




We love our Little Twig products and we can't wait to try more! I'm already eyeing the unscented Bubble Bath to complete our set. The prices are comparable to other organic brands, which means they are a little on the expensive side. But I believe the extra cost is worth it when it comes to peace of mind. Plus, don't forget: if you utilize their recycling program, you can save yourself some moolah on repeat orders.

BUY IT: You can purchase Little Twig bath and skincare products online at www.littletwig.com or use their handy dandy store locator to find the retailer(s) nearest you!

Be sure to sign up for the Little Twig newsletter to get the latest news, exclusive discounts and promos. You can also follow them on Twitter and/or Facebook to keep up to date!

Disclaimer: As noted above, I received baby wash and lotion samples from Nicole at Little Twig to facilitate my honest review. I was not compensated in any other way for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are all mine. Your experience may differ.

Review and Giveway: Baby Goods by Mayron's Goods CLOSED

Babies are good. And sweet. And pure. But unfortunately, not all baby care products are. What, with phthalates, parabens, artificial fragrances and preservatives, 1,4 dioxane, DEP, DEA, BPA, SLS, PEG's and other nasty three-letter acronyms. It can be hard to distinguish the good guys from the bad guys.

But Baby Goods by Mayron's Goods lives up to its name.

Created by Emmy-Award winning actress Melanie Mayron (of thirtysomething and Lipstick Jungle) and her chemist father, Baby Goods is a line of natural and organic baby products, loaded with goodies like aroma-therapeutic essential oils, vitamins, antioxidants and healing ingredients. What you won't find are parabens, DEA or synthetic fragrances. Baby Goods by Mayron's Goods are made right here in the USA and are cruelty-free, tested only on the actress's babies.

Baby Goods by Mayron's Goods was born of Melanie's dissatisfaction with other diaper ointments on the market, twelve years ago before "natural" was "in". She set out to create a diaper cream that would not only get rid of a rash, but prevent it. She wanted something without dyes, petroleum, paraben or artificial fragrances. 47 formulas later, they found their Best Barrier & Diaper Cream. Naturally (no pun intended), this evolved into a whole baby care line, including body wash, lotion, and baby oil.

Melanie was kind enough to send me a Road Pack full of travel-size items to review. This utility kit includes everything you need for baby's bathtime, including Gentle All Over Wash, Hydrating Body Milk, Massage & Body Oil, ChapStuff and the Best Diaper Cream. I absolutely adore the retro feel of the Mayron's brand and couldn't wait to try out the products.



The Gentle All Over Wash is a mild hair and body wash (ARV $12, 99.8% natural) made with plant, soy and rice based cleansers. It is infused with orange and tangerine oils for a light, sweet citrus-y scent. It lathers well and rinses very clean. The scent didn't linger after the bath but that isn't a deficit to me. It just means there's no harmful residue left over on my boy's skin. Most times after giving Nate a bath, my hands feel raw and scaly. But with this one, my hands were left feeling soft and silky for the rest of the night. Definitely a thumbs up from this Mommy!



The Hydrating Body Milk and Body Oil (ARV $14/each, 99.3% and 99.6% natural, respectively) were also impressive. The lotion was very thin in consistency - like milk - but absorbed nicely. As for the oil, a dab'll do ya. I put a small amount onto a cotton ball and applied it to Nate's extra-dry spots. The scents of both were very soft and complemented the body wash perfectly. The combination of all three really kept Nate's eczema at bay. Nary a bump or splotch to be found!

Made of shea butter, aloe vera and beeswax, the ChapStuff (ARV $14, 99.5% natural) is a wonderful cheek and lip emollient. During the chilly weather, we used it on Nate's cheeks to prevent windburn. It also does wonders on chapped lips, mouths and chins to prevent rashes from drool and slobber.

While I thoroughly enjoyed all of the products, my favorite had to be the diaper cream (ARV $11.95, 98.3% natural). This stuff was a miracle! Soon after we received this kit, Nate got a nasty rash from a bad bout of "intestinal discomfort". We've used Triple Paste in the past with great results but I'm not fond of the super thick consistency. I also have Desitin but the chemical smell sends me over the edge and the results have never been stellar. Mayron's Best Diaper Cream is hands-down the best smelling diaper ointment I've ever sniffed! The lavender scent was simply divine and it glided on super smoothly. At the next diaper change a few hours later, I was shocked to see his redness had disappeared! I am so happy to have this in my arsenal and would definitely purchase this product again. (Note: as the active ingredient is zinc-oxide, you may want to use flushable liners with cloth diapers to prevent repelling.)

The only disadvantage I can think of with the Baby Goods by Mayron's Goods line is the cost. The prices are a teensy bit higher than other natural baby care brands such as California Baby or Episencial. However, a portion of all proceeds go toward women's health research so that makes me feel a bit better about spending a bit more.

Bottom line: I appreciate a brand that is transparent about its ingredients and level of "naturalness". I also like that the products are utilitarian - they don't reek of "baby" so they can be used on the whole family. The Baby Goods by Mayron's Goods collection would also make a great baby shower gift.

BUY IT: You can purchase Mayron's Goods online or check out their list of retailers to find a store near you.

WIN IT: Two lucky winners will each receive 5 samples of diaper cream - enough for 10 diaper changes or more!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Visit the Mayron's Goods website and tell me what product you most want to give a whirl. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count! Remember to leave one comment per entry.

1.) Follow my blog and/or subscribe via reader or email. If you already follow and/or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry each)

2.) Follow me and Mayron's Goods on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You can do this daily! You may use the following tweet of come up with one of your own:

#Win samples of @mayronsgoods Best Barrier & Diaper Cream from @melaniemayron52 and @kris10chumley! Ends 4/28 http://bit.ly/cs2U0E

Just leave a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry per day max)

3.) Become a fan of Mayron's Goods on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) Add my blog button and leave a comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on April 28, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winners will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: I received the above Road Pack and diaper cream samples to give away from Melanie at Mayron's Goods to facilitate my candid review. I was not compensated in any other way for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed in my review and purely mine. As such, your experience may differ.

Review: Dapple Baby

When Nate was born, I was a bit fanatical about germs. Nothing made its way within 10 yards of him if it hadn't been sanitized three times over. Thinking back, I should have bought stock in Clorox for all the wipes I went through every week. I've eased up a bit now that he is a toddler, a.k.a muck magnet. But to this day, I still worry whether the cleaners I am using are more dangerous than the dirt I am trying to expunge. In my search for natural baby products, I discovered Dapple. (Don't you just love the name? Dapple of my eye. A Dapple a day...)

Dapple was created by two moms who longed for natural cleaners devoted to the very items that babies touch and mouth everyday, such as bottles, cups and dishes. Traditional dish soap left behind synthetic fragrances and lingering suds, which eventually led to stubborn odor and film. They knew there had to be a better, safer way to clean babies' unique messes. And so, Dapple was born.

Dapple offers a complete line of nontoxic household cleaners, tailor-made for families with young children. All Dapple products use natural-based ingredients, are biodegradable and are free of parabens, SLES, phthalates, dioxane, synthetic dyes and fragrances. Made with baking soda, they work like a good wash with soap and water - only more convenient. Dapple products are pediatrician-recommended and are not tested on animals.

Dapple kindly sent me their Toy Cleaner Spray (ARV $5.99) and travel size Dish Liquid ($5.99/full size) to review.

We've put the Toy Cleaner Spray to good use, everywhere from the highchair tray to the changing table to the portable placemat to the ball pit, where Nate and his friends love to swap spit and hide nuggets of food that won't be found until days later. The clean, fresh scent is so mild it is hardly detectable. I had to really lean in close to even smell a subtle hint of fragrance. But that's a good thing. I don't need my son to taste perfume on his so-called "clean" toys. The spray is super easy to use: just spritz and wipe. No need to rinse afterward, as I would out of paranoia with other cleaners. I feel so much more comfortable now knowing Nate's toys and surfaces are free of grime and pose no hidden threat to his health.





The Dish Liquid has also come quite in handy. Even though I wash most of Nate's sippies and dishes in the top rack of the dishwasher, there are times I'm in a rush and don't have time to wait for an entire dishwasher cycle. So, a quick hand wash with Dapple helps me out in those times I'm in a pinch. I generally rinse everything pretty thoroughly but there were no spots or sudsy residue left after washing and drying. It also didn't dry out my hands like other soaps can. This would also be great to use with hot water to sterilize breastpump parts at home.



The only disadvantage I can think of with Dapple products is the price. As a one-income family, I think my husband would balk at spending $6 on dish soap when I could use something like Safeway's Bright Green line for half the cost. However, a little goes a long way with these products so if you aren't too liberal with them, I think you can get your money's worth, along with peace of mind.

Bottom line: If you're in the market for organic baby products and want to find an effective yet gentle cleaner for your little one, look no further than Dapple.

BUY IT: Dapple Baby products are available at Toys R Us, Babies R Us, Buy Buy Baby, Bed Bath & Beyond and online at diapers.com, giggle.com, and www.dapplebaby.com. Just head on over to their handy dandy store locator to find the closest retailer to you!

To learn more about Dapple and keep up on the latest news and offerings, follow Dapple on Twitter and/or Facebook!

Disclaimer: I received the above products from Luna at Dapple to facilitate my candid review. I was in no other way compensated for my post. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own so your experience may differ.

Review and Giveaway: Episencial Natural Skincare CLOSED

It's no secret I've been a fan of SproutBaby ever since I was introduced to them last year. I mean, what's not to love? Not only do they make shopping for environmentally-friendly goods easy and enjoyable - but they individually test and hand-select each product they carry. Only those that meet their rigorous standards get their seal of approval. From feeding and diapering to bathing and playtime, SproutBaby has you covered with a "green" solution. With their commitment to excellence, you can be sure that what you purchase is truly safe and gentle for you and your family.

Back in December, I had the pleasure of reviewing the Better Body Butter from Episencial, which quickly won over our household. So, I was delighted to try out another product from the brand new skincare line: the Playful Foaming Wash.



Episencial offers high-quality yet affordable all-natural skincare for children. Featuring the instantly recognizable artwork from Eric Carle's classic book The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Episencial is the first company to develop clinically-effective, newborn-safe products that support the immune functions of the skin. Their complete range of products is made exclusively from chemical-free, organic ingredients (even using fruits from the story!) and is based upon reliable formulas used by leading spas and clinics for over 30 years. Episencial goes beyond your typical "green" company. They manufacture right here in the U.S. using solar power and recyclable, sustainable packaging. With this many pros, it's no surprise the product line was founded by a mom!

The Playful Foaming Wash is a pure, hydrating hair and body wash, with the following benefits:

• Thyme oil and plant-based surfactants act as gentle cleansers
• Organic ginko biloba and calendula extract soothe skin
• Organic aloe and oat extract moisturize naturally
• Sulfate-free
• Fragrance-free. Organic orange extract provides a mild, natural scent.
• Non-irritating formula won't sting or burn sensitive skin
• Rinses off quickly
• Safe for all ages
• Bottle is phthalate and BPA-free
  

SproutBaby was kind enough to send me a week's worth of samples to try out with Nate. I can't get enough of the cute, colorful packaging, with the beloved character from one of our all-time favorite storybooks.



The scent of the body wash was heavenly. A very mild, citrus-y smell that reminded me of freshly squeezed orange juice. I also liked that the color of the gel was clear and not tinted yellow, as with some other natural brands. Just a personal little peccadillo of mine but a dingy bath product makes me feel more dirty than clean. True to its name, the foaming bath wash had a great lather, and rinsed cleanly away with no residue. Even though Mommy was a bit clumsy and accidentally spilled some water from his crown down over his face, Nate didn't cry or appear irritated at all.



After bathtime, the orange scent didn't linger as with traditional baby washes. But I would rather not slather my eczema-prone toddler in harsh chemicals just for the sake of a smell. I applied the Better Body Butter directly after bathtime and my little alligator's rough patches gave way to kissably soft skin - just how a baby was meant to feel.

Bottom line: Episencial equates to Essential in our house. I would highly recommend checking them out for all your family's bath needs. I love a company who cares about the safety of our planet and our children. With products ranging from $5.99-$14.99, they are competitively priced. Oh, and it helps that the products smell great and work just as well! I'm already eyeing the Soothing Cream and Bubble Bath.

BUY IT: You can purchase the Playful Foaming Wash (ARV $8.99), the Better Body Butter (ARV $9.99) or other Episencial products by visiting www.sproutbaby.com.

DELICIOUS DISCOUNT: See something you need right away?! Use my blogger referral code "SBBL021" to get 15% off your first purchase!

WIN IT: Episencial is generously giving one lucky reader a full-size bottle of the Playful Foaming Wash and another full-size bottle of the Better Body Butter!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Stalk SproutBaby.com and tell me another product that catches your eye. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog and/or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry each)

2.) Sign up for the SproutBaby newsletter and comment with the email you used. (2 entries!)

3.) Become a fan of SproutBaby on Facebook (1 entry)

4.) Follow me and@sproutbabyclub on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway. You can do this daily! You may use the following tweet or come up with one of your own:

RT @kris10chumley: Keep your baby's skin so soft with Episencial Body Butter and Foaming Wash from @sproutbabyclub http://bit.ly/dBILGb

Just leave a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry per day max)

5.) Add my button to your site and comment with a link where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on March 9, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to US only. Winner will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: As mentioned above, I was sent samples of Episencial body wash from SproutBaby.com to facilitate my candid review. I was not compensated in any other way for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are solely mine. Your experience may differ.

Giveaway: ZarBee's Cough Syrup CLOSED

Remember my review of Zarbee's Cough Syrup a few months ago? No? Well, I encourage you to go take a gander at it but if you're in a hurry, allow me to refresh your memory.

Zarbee's was invented by Dr. Zak Zarbock, a pediatrician who had become frustrated by his inability to help young patients suffering from coughs. You see, traditional cough syrups like Triaminic and Children's Robitussin are restricted to children 4 and over. But what about the little guys? Don't they need comfort too? So, he created a safe yet effective, all-natural cough syrup that provides relief from throat irritation while also boosting the immune system. Using a proprietary blend of dark honeys for their antioxidant power combined with vitamin C and zinc gluconate, Zarbee's is safe for children 12 months and older. It is available in two flavors: lemon and cherry.

We received two samples from Zarbee's to test out. So far, we've only used the lemon sample during a time when Nate's runny nose was causing some post-nasal drip and a heartbreaking cough. I found the scent of the syrup to be a little strong and off-putting but it did taste better than other medicines. It reminded me of a honey tea with a hint of clove. Maybe the cherry flavor would be a bit milder. It wasn't thick and goopy like some syrups. Instead, it was thin and easy to pour and measure. I struggled to get Nate to accept the first taste - perhaps because of the smell - but after that, he gladly opened up for more. Roughly 15 minutes later, his cough had mysteriously disappeared. So, I'd say it passed the test for us!

I love that the ingredients are natural and that he won't have to suffer with annoying coughs until he's a preschooler. I also like that it was developed by a pediatrician so I'm confident that he has my childs' health and best interest at heart. And since each dose provides his total daily serving of vitamin C, I know I'm doing all I can to protect him during cold and flu season.

BUY IT: You can find Zarbee's in select grocery and drugstores including Acme, Albertson's, Shaw's, and Supervalu, as well as online (ARV $9.99/4 oz. bottle). If ZarBee's is not available near you, you can request it by emailing requestlocation@zarbees.com.

WIN IT: Zarbee's has generously offered one bottle to one lucky reader!



MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Visit the Zarbee's website and tell me something you learned or what you find most appealing about this product. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count! Remember to leave one comment per entry.

1.) Follow my blog or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry)

2.) Follow me and @Zarbees on Twitter and tweet about this contest. Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry)

3.) Add my blog button and leave a comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry)

4.) Sign up for the Zarbee's newsletter. (1 entry)

5.) Enter any of my other current giveaways and leave a comment telling me which one(s) you entered. (1 entry each)

Giveaway will end on January 21, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winners will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: As stated in my review, I was sent two samples of cough syrup from Zarbee's to facilitate this candid review. I was not compensated in any other way for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed in my review are purely my own, and your experience may differ. Please consult your child's physician for a thorough diagnosis prior to treatment and use as directed.

Giveaway: Pedialyte Powder Packs CLOSED

Last Christmas, our holiday spirit was dampened when our nearly 5-month old baby woke up with a 102 degree fever. Our poor infant son couldn't even enjoy opening his presents for his very first Christmas Day. He spent the entire afternoon alternating between screaming his head off and sleeping upright in his swing. My normal booby monster couldn't even be bothered to breastfeed. I knew something serious was going on. After several doses of Tylenol, his fever spiked to 103.5 and off to the ER we went. Nate was diagnosed with Hand Food and Mouth Disease (HFMD), which is a fancy version of a nasty virus. In the days following the diagnosis, as he recovered with the help of Motrin, he battled diarrhea and a red rash on his belly. He also had blisters on the back of his throat so it was a struggle to get him to nurse. I felt so helpless. All I could think was that my baby was starving and would wind up in the hospital with a feeding tube if I couldn't get the proper nutrients in him somehow.

But then I remembered we had Pedialyte in the pantry. Nate was never a fan of the bottle but he did drink enough of the liquid to ease my worries about dehydration. Since then, my husband and I have always had a container on hand for emergencies such as this.

If you've ever had a sick child, you can probably imagine the bottle in your head as I mention the brand. But for those who've been lucky enough to dodge the flu bullets, here are the details:

Pedialyte is the number one doctor recommended brand of oral electrolyte solution. It is specifically designed to replace fluids and minerals (electrolytes) that are lost when a child has diarrhea with or without vomiting. Pedialyte is effective because it contains only small amounts of sugars (dextrose and fructose) that are balanced with appropriate levels of electrolytes. Pedialyte is designed with this precise combination of sugars and electrolytes to promote quick fluid and electrolyte absorption. In general, other household beverages such as sports drinks, sweetened sodas and juices are too high in carbohydrates (sugar) and too low in sodium -- an important electrolyte that is lost during diarrhea and vomiting. Pedialyte Liters also contain added zinc to help replenish zinc loss due to diarrhea.

Pedialyte is available in flavored and unflavored liter bottles, single pint-sized liquid bottles, and freezer pops. All flavored varieties are sweetened with ace K (acsulfame potassium) and sucralose instead of sugar, as sugar (sucrose) may make diarrhea worse by drawing water into the intestine.

Thankfully, Nate does not suffer from intestinal troubles regularly. But the problem with the Pedialyte liter bottles is that after you open the container, you have to consume the unused portion within 48 hours. We maybe use about 1/3 of the bottle before we have to throw away the rest. I always thought it was such a waste. Not to mention the bulky container is not easy to fit in a crowded fridge or throw in the diaper bag. Carting it around with us on Christmas Day was not exactly fun.

Well, Pedialyte has addressed my gripes with their new Powder Packs. These simple packets are convenient for travel, easy to store and easy to use. Just add one pack to 8 oz. of water - that's it! Powder Packs come in four yummy flavors and are available in 4-packs including Fruit Punch and Apple or Variety 8-packs that also include Strawberry and Grape.


I have not yet had an opportunity to test out the new Powder Packs but you can bet your bottom dollar, I'll be trading in my huge, bulky bottle for these puppies. I love that I can just throw them in my purse or diaper bag and no matter where we are, we'll be prepared. 'Cause if you're anything like my family, the onset of an illness rarely occurs while we're comfortably at home.

BUY IT: You can find Pedialyte Powder Packs wherever Pedialyte is sold, or use this handy dandy store locator to find the retailer nearest you. (ARV $6/4-pk. or $9/8-pk.) You can also sign up for the Pedialyte newsletter and get a coupon for $1.50 off!

EXCITING EVENT: If you happen to live in the MD/DC/VA area, you're in luck! The “Pedialyte Healthy Holiday Event” Mobile Tour will be stopping by the Westfield Montgomery Mall in Bethesda, MD on December 11-13, 2009 from 11am-5pm (next to Santa Station) to help educate families about their medicine cabinet necessities. During the tour, families can stop by the booth to speak to local health care providers and learn more about what simple things they can do to keep healthy this holiday season. In addition, families can participate in a Pedialyte taste test and receive samples and coupons of the new Pedialyte Powder Packs.

But if you don't live nearby or if, like me, you have to devote your time this weekend to menial tasks like unpacking and last-minute Christmas shopping, have no fear...

WIN IT: Ten lucky winners are going to win a year's supply of Pedialyte Powder Packs! Yes, that's right - TEN winners will EACH win a YEAR'S SUPPLY!


MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Visit the Pedialyte website and tell me something you learned that I didn't mention in my review. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile or if you are not a blogger!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry)

2.) Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this contest. Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry)

3.) Add my blog button and/or my holiday button to your site and leave a comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry for each)

4.) Enter any of my other current giveaways and leave a comment telling me which one(s) you entered. (1 entry each)

Giveaway will end on December 26, 2009 at 11:59pm EST. Contest open to U.S. only. Winners will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: I received an invitation to attend the above event and test this product from Liv at DeVries P.R. I was not compensated in any way for this post. The opinions expressed in this review are purely my own. Your experience may differ. Always consult a physician for a proper evaluation and treatment plan before administering Pedialyte, especially for infants under 1 year of age.