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Pampers Celebrates #BabyGotMoves #BebeConRitmo In NYC + $100 Pampers Gift Bag Giveaway

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The Pampers #BabyGotMoves event was recently held at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan - where guests celebrated those fun morning moments when baby wakes up dry, happy and ready to dance! 

Pampers teamed up with expectant actress and mom, Ali Larter, to help parents and babies dance the morning away in Pampers' oversized disco-style crib, complete with LED floors and giant disco ball

Want to get in on the fun? Share your baby's best morning dance moves using the hashtag #BabyGotMoves or #BebeConRitmo and tag @PampersBabyGotMoves on Instagram or @Pampers on Twitter. You can also choose to upload your video directly to Pampers and Pampers Latino Facebook. Then, keep an eye out, Pampers may feature YOUR clip in their next video!


Pampers is giving (1) One Savvy Mom reader a Gift Bag stocked with goodies valued at $100!

The bag includes:                                                                       
  • (1)Branded  Pampers tote bag
  • (1)$25 iTunes gift card                                                        
  • Le Colombe Torrefaction Gourmet Coffee                           
  • A Teal mug                                                                   
  • Herbal Stash Teas Gift Box                                          
  • iHome expandable Bluetooth mini speaker                          
  • A Pack of Pampers Baby Dry diapers

HOW TO ENTER:
Leave a comment~ When is your little one's favorite time of day? The comment is considered your entry (make sure to leave an email address in your comment where we can contact you if you win).

ADDITIONAL OPTIONAL ENTRIES:
NOTE: Make sure to leave the appropriate number of comments for each additional entry completed or they will not be counted,
1)Follow us ( or if you already follow ) on Twitter http://www.twitter.com/one_savvymom (Additional 2 Entries- 2 comments )

2) Tweet: 
  1st daily tweet: Hoping to #WIN a $100 @Pampers Gift Bag #Giveaway @one_savvymom http://bit.ly/1rejDm4#BabyGotMoves #bebeconritmo #Baby RT

  2nd daily tweet: I want to  #WIN a $100 @Pampers Gift Bag #Giveaway @one_savvymom http://bit.ly/1rejDm4 #BabyGotMoves #bebeconritmo RT
(can be repeated twice daily for additional entries~ copy paste please - the bit link must be posted in the tweet - we will check) (Additional 2 Entries - 2 Comments per tweet / per day).

3) Stumble this post on StumbleUpon leave a link to the stumble in comments( Additional 2 Entries - 2 Comments)

4) Stumble a non-giveaway post - leave a link to the post/stumble in comments (Additional 5 Entries - 5 Comments per post)
5) Blog about this giveaway with a link and leave a link to the post in a comment ( Additional 10 Entries- 10 Comments)

6)Subscribe to One Savvy Mom via RSS FEED ( below the follower button) (Additional 5 Entries-5Comments)

8) Follow us on Pinterest (http://www.pinterest.com/onesavvymom) leave a comment with your Pinterest name/handle that you followed us with. (5 Entries-5 Comments)

9) Share this post on Pinterest and leave us a link to the pin in your comments (5 Entries - 5 comments).

10) Subscribe to our YouTube Channel ( http://www.youtube.com/onesavvymomtm )
(10 Entries-10 Comments)

11.) Share this post on Google+  (5 Entries - 5 Comments)

12.) Share a recent post on One Savvy Mom on Google+ - Leave a link with the post that you shared in your comments - can be repeated once daily (5 Entries - 5 Comments)

13.) Follow @Pampers on Twitter (5 Entries - 5 Comments).

Entry to this giveaway ends at 12pm PST September 16, 2014. Winner's are chosen randomly through random.org. The winner will be drawn within 2 days of the giveaway ending. The winner will be contacted through email so, make sure you leave a valid email address with your entries. The winner will have 48 hrs. to respond or another winner will be chosen in place.





Pley Review: A Look At The New Monthly LEGO Rental Subscription Service #Love2Pley

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LEGO. What can I say? It's a way of life for our son (and many for that matter). He is completely enamored/awed/into it.  I could go on and on ... but you get the point, right? He's a big fan! 

We regularly purchase him new sets and his collection has expanded to be admittedly, impressive. With that said, once he builds the latest/greatest set, they generally wind up disassembled and mixed/jumbled in with all of his other LEGO pieces.  I have had fairly frequent conversations with him as of late that go something like "why don't we just buy you a big box of bricks, and you can create whatever you want, since everything winds up mixed up anyway?" This folks, is where the (one-sided) conversation ends. He just rolls his eyes. Because, clearly I don't get it as much as I think I do.

The challenge is in the build for most LEGO enthusiasts. They want to conquer the latest set and that means purchasing large sets at times, with detailed instructions and hours of building it up to picture-perfection. I get it.  But the cost. Holy cow! Did you know that some LEGO sets retail for as much as $400? Yep, it can get a bit pricey.

Now, there's a fun new way for LEGO fans to conquer their next building challenge without dropping a ton of cash; Pley

Pley, which is known as the "Netflix-for-LEGO," allows families to enjoy a constant stream of new LEGO sets, minus the huge investment.  Simply pick your subscription level. Three monthly levels are available and depend on the size of the sets you want to rent. Small sets are $15/month, medium sets are $25/month  and large sets are $39/month. We started with a $15/month small set subscription. 
Each LEGO set arrives in a zippered mesh bag (pictured) which also includes the original instruction booklets and decals (when applicable). Your first delivery also includes a "Brick Popper" (which is yours to keep) and a buildable Pley Bracelet (also yours to keep). You can keep the set as long as you would like, and when your finished building, simply break down the set with the Brick Popper, place everything back in the mesh bag, affix the prepaid shipping label to the box and drop it in the mail. Once Pley receives your return, they will ship you the next set in your Que. 

Our son was able to check out a CHIMA set this week via Pley, and he discovered that he really enjoys the challenge. He was hesitant in the past to try LEGO TECHNIC and LEGO CHIMA sets, so this was the perfect way for him to try out something new, without a large financial commitment.
Oh. and if your child loves the set and you prefer to keep it, you can purchase it from Pley at slightly under market value.

We absolutely love the concept of this monthly subscription rental service. Pley offers the perfect platform for LEGO enthusiasts to enjoy a constant stream of new building challenges without the huge financial investment. Looking for the perfect (unique) birthday gift for the kiddo's in your life? We think that a Pley subscription would make the perfect present! Think about it ... a year of LEGO fun; now that's a gift that keeps giving!

Things to consider:
  • Concerned about germs? No worries! Pley sanitizes each set after they are returned and the sanitation process that Pley uses kills 99.9% of  bacteria/germs.
  • Concerned about the kiddo's losing a brick or two? No need to be; there are no fees for normal loss.


For more on PLEY and to purchase a subscription visit them online at: https://www.pley.com/ 



*Disclosure: A subscription was provided for review purposes. All opinions expressed are our own.






DIY Back To School Supplies With Duck Tape Ducklings™ Mini Rolls

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Jazzing up simple school supplies with Duck Tape can add up to some major savings for your wallet! We had a blast adding pops of color and fun patterns to basic composition books ( that were just ..25 cents a piece) and customizing  10 packs of pens and pencils that also rung in at just $1 each.

Duck Brand has some brand new products that make customizing just about anything, a blast! We used the all new Ducklings™ Mini Rolls (of Duck Tape to create a Pencil Case (with just Duck Tape, poster board, and a Velcro closure), a coin purse, flower pens and pencils, and custom notebooks/composition books. These cute little rolls of Duck Tape are more slender and easier to work with - especially for smaller projects like these.
Check out our fun Back To School  Ducklings™ Mini Rolls project tutorials below:

 How To MakeDuck Tape Flower Pencils / Pens Tutorial.

What you will need:
  • Pens/Pencils.
  • Duck Fabric® Mini Rolls (in your choice of colors/Patterns)
  • Scissors
  • Self-adhesive Velcro tabs for closure
Prep:
  • Cut your tape strips for the flower petals to 1 inch in size.
  • Cut your leaves for the base of the flower to 2 inches.
Next, follow our simple step by step tutorial below. Note: you can enlarge the image by clicking on it.

How To Make A Duck Tape Coin Purse / Pencil Case Tutorial:

What you will need:

  • Poster Board
  • Scissors
  • Pencil
  • Ruler
  • Duck Fabric® Mini Rolls in your choice of colors/patterns
  • Self- adhesive Velcro Tabs for closure

Prep:
  • Coin Purse Trace out your form 7"H x 4" W (create a point like an envelope - refer to image below)
  • Pencil Case: Trace out your form 12" H x  9" W (create a point like an envelope-refer to images)
  • Create folds (refer to image)
Next, follow our simple step by step tutorial below. Note: you can enlarge the image by clicking on it.

We hope everyone has a fantastic school year! Happy crafting!

P.S. - Keep an eye out for our upcoming seasonal project tutorials using new Duck Tape Ducklings™ Mini Rolls and  Duck Fabric® Mini Rolls!


* Disclosure: Product samples were provided. All opinions expressed are our own.



Our Fall Fashion Favorites From Zutano + $75 Gift Card Giveaway

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It's no secret that we have nothing but love for Zutano in our home. We adore all of the playful patterns and bright pops of color in every pattern that Zutano offers, but these are our favorite picks for the Fall season:


Zutano sent over an adorable set from the "Trucks" line for our little guy for the Fall, and you guys - I seriously can't even take the cuteness! He looks like such a little man in his little zipper jacket and booties! I love the color pallet in the Trucks line - it's soft, yet totally all boy with cute trucks and diggers incorporated into each piece.

And the booties? They are literally the best booties I have seen/experienced since I joined the ranks of motherhood nearly 10 years ago. They are specially designed to stay put. So, even if you have a baby Houdini , these booties pose a serious challenge. Safeguard those cute tootsies this season with Zutano's Cozie BootiesI am completely confident that you will fall in love with them just as fast as we did!


My favorite part? Zutano just introduced a Limited Edition Color Block Cozie Bootie Line (exclusively available online ). Check out the scrumptious color combos that are available:

The Limited Edition Color Block Cozie Booties retail for $21 - $23 a pair, and are available exclusively at Zutano.com

You can find all of the featured/pictured items at select retail locations nationwide and online at www.zutano.com .

Ready to experience the Zutano cuteness for yourself? (1) One Savvy Mom reader will receive a $75 Zutano Gift Card (redeemable at Zutano.com).

HOW TO ENTER:
Leave a comment~ Visit Zutano.com and tell us which item you would like to add to your little one's wardrobe this season. The comment is considered your entry (make sure to leave an email address in your comment where we can contact you if you win).

ADDITIONAL OPTIONAL ENTRIES:
NOTE: Make sure to leave the appropriate number of comments for each additional entry completed or they will not be counted,
1)Follow us ( or if you already follow ) on Twitter http://www.twitter.com/one_savvymom (Additional 2 Entries- 2 comments )

2) Tweet: 
  1st daily tweet: Hoping to #WIN a $100 @Zutano Gift Card @one_savvymom -for super cute #Fall #Fashion wardrobe updates for #Baby http://bit.ly/1rBNCB4 #Giveaway RT

  2nd daily tweet: I want to #WIN a $100 @Zutano Gift Card @one_savvymom -for super cute #Fall #Fashion wardrobe updates for #Baby http://bit.ly/1rBNCB4 #Giveaway RT
(can be repeated twice daily for additional entries~ copy paste please - the bit link must be posted in the tweet - we will check) (Additional 2 Entries - 2 Comments per tweet / per day).

3) Stumble this post on StumbleUpon leave a link to the stumble in comments( Additional 2 Entries - 2 Comments)

4) Stumble a non-giveaway post - leave a link to the post/stumble in comments (Additional 5 Entries - 5 Comments per post)
5) Blog about this giveaway with a link and leave a link to the post in a comment ( Additional 10 Entries- 10 Comments)

6)Subscribe to One Savvy Mom via RSS FEED ( below the follower button) (Additional 5 Entries-5Comments)

8) Follow us on Pinterest (http://www.pinterest.com/onesavvymom) leave a comment with your Pinterest name/handle that you followed us with. (5 Entries-5 Comments)

9) Share this post on Pinterest and leave us a link to the pin in your comments (5 Entries - 5 comments).

10) Subscribe to our YouTube Channel ( http://www.youtube.com/onesavvymomtm )
(10 Entries-10 Comments)

11.) Share this post on Google+  (5 Entries - 5 Comments)

12.) Share a recent post on One Savvy Mom on Google+ - Leave a link with the post that you shared in your comments - can be repeated once daily (5 Entries - 5 Comments)

13.) Follow @Zutano on Twitter (5 Entries - 5 Comments).

Entry to this giveaway ends at 12pm PST September 23, 2014. Winner's are chosen randomly through random.org. The winner will be drawn within 2 days of the giveaway ending. The winner will be contacted through email so, make sure you leave a valid email address with your entries. The winner will have 48 hrs. to respond or another winner will be chosen in place.


*Disclosure: Samples were provided for review purposes. All opinions expressed are our own.



Halloween Handprint Kids Crafts

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Handprint kids crafts are always fun! Crafting up these cute Halloween themed handprint crafts with the kids is super easy. Each of the crafts below require simple supplies that you most likely already have on hand.

What you will need:



  • Construction paper (refer to images below - color choices optional)
  • Crayons (to trace handprints and to color your creations)
  • Safety Scissors (to cut out handprints)
  • White Washable School Glue or Glue Stick
  • Googly eyes (optional)

 Witch Handprint Halloween Kids Craft
 Bat Handprint Halloween Kids Craft
Ghost Handprint Halloween Kids Craft

Happy Halloween & Happy Crafting!



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Greet The New Season Totally On-Trend with Total Girl - Exclusively Available At JCPenny

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The new school year has commenced and the temperatures are slowly {but surely} starting to change here in the Northeast part of the country. While we aren't jumping for joy to see the sunshine and warmer temperatures depart, we do get excited about all of the new fashion trends that the new season brings!

The Total Girl line {exclusively available at JCPenny) is a total fashion compass for the girls fashion sector. Their pieces are always fashion-forward and totally on-trend. 


We love their bold mix of graphic prints, embellishments, and bright pops of color this season. All of the pieces in this seasons' Total Girl  line easily mix and match too.
Whether she pairs one of these cute sweaters with a great pair embellished skinny jeans, or layers a comfortable sweatshirt or graphic tee over an adorable pair of leggings, her look is sure to be totally on-point.

We can't wait to  see what's up next for this line. Hint: we've already spied a super cute Pea Coat and an adorable Faux Leather Moto Jacket

All of the TotalGirl pieces featured/pictured are available at JCPenny retail locations nationwide and online at: www.JCPenny.com  . 


*Disclosure: Samples were received. All opinions expressed are our own.



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Duck Tape Witch Halloween Wreath Tutorial - It Glows In The Dark!

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Ready for some Halloween fun with the kids? This year, for the first time, I actually really decorated the house for Halloween. We normally decorate for the Fall season however, we never really went all out for Halloween. After Halloween, I will have to change everything out for Fall and Thanksgiving, but the kids are loving all of the décor, and that's what its really all about! So, I'm going with it.

We crafted this fun (and simple) Duck Tape Witch wreath yesterday. It's comprised of very simple materials. Our favorite part? It glows in the dark!At night, all you can see is the glowing tights on the Witch legs, the broom, and the stars on the Witch hat. Seriously, SUPER CUTE!

Check out the full supply list and our tutorial below:


  • Foam Wreath Form (we found ours at Dollar Tree)
  • Duck Tape Ducklings™ Mini Rolls of Duck Tape in choice of colors (we used 2 rolls of Glow in the Dark for stars on the hat, the broom, and the witches tights, 1/2 roll of hot pink for the underside of the Witches hat + shoe/hat buckles and top of the broom, 1 1/2 rolls of black polka dot for wreath form and accents on hat and shoes, a few pieces of leopard for the broom handle, and a few pieces of silver for the top of broom / stars on the Witches hat, 1 roll of black for the Witches hat and boots).
  • Scissors
  • Hot glue gun with low temp hot glue sticks or heavy craft glue
  • Pencil
  • Black Construction Paper (4 pieces) for Witches legs and boots)
  • Card Stock (4 pieces for boom and Witches hat)
  • Stapler (to staple witches boots together)
  • Tissue Paper (to stuff Witches boots)
  • 6 Straight Pins (to attach Witches legs to the wreath form when complete)
  • 12" ribbon to create hanger for your wreath
Prep:
  • Roll two pieces of black construction paper (as pictured below). Secure with tape. 
  • Cut roll into 5 and 2 inch sections. 
  • Ball up a small piece of paper to create "knee joint". 
  • Tape all three pieces connecting 2 inch piece to "joint" at top for thigh and 5 inch piece to "joint" for calf. 
  • Cover entire "leg in Duck Tape. Cut strips (about 3"L) of green / glow in the dark Duck Tape and layer as pictured to create the Witches tights. Layer until the entire "leg" is covered. Repeat for other leg. 
  • Cut out two witches "boots" (two for each side) staple boot along outer edges (leaving the top open for the leg to fit in ( refer to picture below). Cover both sides of both "boots" with black duck tape or color of choice. Embellish with a small square of another color to create a buckle on each boot (refer to picture below). Use hot glue or heavy craft to glue the witches legs inside of the boots. 
NOTE: Use straight pins to attach the witch legs and completed hat to the wreath form.

Refer to our tutorial below to complete all of the steps of this project. It only took me about 45 minutes to complete the wreath from start to finish.

Happy Halloween & Happy Crafting!



*Disclosure: Duck Tape samples were received. All opinions expressed are our own.


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Upcycled Soda Bottle Duck Tape Witch Windsock { + a Super Simple Duck Tape Ghost Windsock!}

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We had a bit of a celebration to usher in the new Football season last weekend. Food, Food, family time and more FOOD! We all piled on the sofa for some Giants Football viewing to kick off the new season and we had a blast!

After it was over we had a few empty Pepsi and Dr. Pepper bottles that I decided to upcycle into some cute Halloween craft projects for the kids. We made this Witch Windsock with an upcycled soda bottle, a Bounty paper towel, Duck Tape and a few other simple supplies (that you most likely already have around the house). We also made a super simple upcycled ghost windsock (perfect Halloween project for the younger kiddo's).

Check out our upcycled Duck Tape Witch & Ghost Windsock tutorials + supply lists below:

Upcycled Soda Bottle + Duck Tape Witch Windsock (kids craft recommended for ages 8+)
What you'll need:
  • Scissors
  • Duck Tape ( we used green, neon pink, leopard, silver and glow-in-the dark Duck Tape Ducklings™ Mini Rolls ).
  • Empty Soda Bottle (cut the bottom of the bottle off  + cut one of the points off of the bottom/base of the bottle and affix to the front of the bottle with green Duct Tape to create the nose . Use the other remaining strip of bottle that you cut off to create a cone for the top of your Witches "hat" - refer to images below.
  • Plastic party table cover (we found ours at Walmart for $1) in your choice of color (we used pink so it looks like a continuation of the Witches "hair".
  • Black Permanent marker to draw the witches face (refer to images above and below).
  • Bounty Paper Towel (roll the paper town and keep in place with three pieces of tape (bottom - middle - and top) then affix to the base of your witches "hat" using duck tape (cover all of the paper towel as pictured - to create the brim for your witches "hat".
Prep:

  • Cut several 12 inch strips of Duck Tape (we used the Duck Tape Ducklings™ Mini Rolls - in hot pink and silver color choices) and fold almost in half (sticking sticky sides together - leave a small piece of tape at top to affix to the bottle to create your Witches hair). Repeat process for each piece of "hair".
  • Cut your plastic party table cover into 16" L x  1"W strips (about 16 if your using a 2 liter soda bottle - affix to the inside of the bottle using green Duct Tape.


Simple Upcycled Duck Tape Ghost Windsock (simple Halloween craft for kids ages 5+)

What You'll need:

  • Empty Water Jug (cut off the bottom of the water jug - ****NOTE: this step should be completed by an adult)
  • Scissors
  • White Duck Tape
  • Permanat Pen to draw on the Ghost face
  • White Plastic party table cover ( we found ours for $1 at Walmart) (cut about 16 strips 16" L x  1"W strips - affix each strip to the inside of the container with a small piece of Duck Tape.


Create a hanger for your Windsock: Fold over a 6 inch piece of duck tape (in half - concealing the sticky sides completely. Next fold this piece in half - over the top of the bottle after it is completely covered in Duck Tape - and affix with more White Duck Tape to create your hanger (see image below).

Happy Crafting & Happy Halloween! 

*Disclosure: Duck Tape samples were received. All opinions expressed are our own.


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25 Snack Worthy Dip Recipes For Your Next Football Party

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Gather Together For Game Day Fun This Football Season + Giveaway and FREE Football Pennant Banner Printables { All 32 Teams }

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My husband and Football. What to say .... what to say? He's a bit of a Football junky to be honest. Sports are a way of life for him. He gets a special twinkle in his eye when he talks about anything sports related - he's passionate about it for sure! So,  I try my best to support him.  I'm not well versed in plays or calls or any of that jazz, but I give it the old college try and make up for my lack of sports knowledge by whipping up great snacks and food on game day. After all, great food really is the way to mans heart.


What would a football game be without chips, snacks and goodies? We absolutely love to serve all types of dips and snacks on game day. Our favorite dips are made all-the-better with Tostitos and Fritos{YUM!}  Plus - SCORE! They're GLUTEN FREE. A total must for our daughter who has Celiac disease.

Looking for some great dips to serve up on Game Day? Click HERE to check out a few of our favorite dip recipes!
As a family of 5, budget is always at the top of my mind. The prices seriously can't be beat at Family Dollar. Their already low prices are made even sweeter with their online printable coupons for P& G, Pepsi and FritoLay brand favorites. We can find all of our favorite products including Bounty Paper Towels, Dawn Dish Detergent, Tide Laundry Detergent, Dorritos, Tostitos Scoops, and Tostitos Dips/Salsas, Lays Chips and MORE - all in one place. Which saves time on game day prep and gas (double score!).

What goes hand in hand with great food, family time, and football fun? The messy aftermath of course! Yep. One thing's for sure, two thing's for certain. There's going to be a "blopper".  Someone will inevitably wind up with food stains on their clothing {and or} the table/floor. And the dishes will inevitably be piled high in the sink! But all of these things are simply signs that a great time was had by all, and that's all that really matters in the grand scheme of things. Right? Nothing that some Tide and Dawn can't handle!
What's a party without great décor? Check out the FREE Football Party Printables Below!
( All 32 Football Teams available!)

Ready for some game day fun of your own? We have a great prize pack -pictured above for (1) One Savvy Mom reader!

Prize pack includes
  • Dawn Dish Detergent
  • Tide Pods Laundry Detergent
  • Bounty Paper Towels
  • $25 Family Dollar Gift Card to stock up on game day snacks and supplies.
CLICK HERE to enter. Entry ends on Friday October 10, 2014 at 12 PM PST. Winner will be drawn at random through Random.org and will be notified through email and announced on our Twitter account. Winner must be 18 years of age or older to enter. Void where prohibited by law.

*Disclosure: P & G supplied us with a prize pack to host a party and an identical prize pack to give away to a reader. All thoughts and opinions expressed are our own.



    

    How To Use LEGO Bricks As A Creative Learning Tool For Kids

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    LEGO is BIG in our home, folks. I MEAN ... BIG!

    Our son is totally on-board and passionate about all things LEGO. So much so, that I am currently attempting to construct a cake topper out of LEGO Bricks, for his upcoming Birthday. Wish me luck you guys. I thought it would be simple. HA!

    I can certainly say that I have a new-found respect for all of the intricate details that our son builds into his creations.   In my attempted construction of the aforementioned cake topper, I've discovered that it's far more difficult than it looks!

    While building and creating is certainly a blast, we've discovered that learning with LEGO can be tons of fun too!  

    Grab a box of LEGO bricks,  plus a few simple supplies from around the house, and try these fun Spelling, Math, and Science LEGO learning activities with the kids:


    • Spelling: Have the younger kiddo's try to spell out their name using bricks and a large base plate.
    • Math: Play counting games and solve simple addition and subtraction  problems with  LEGO Bricks (example. start with 6 bricks connected and add 4 more for simple addition practice or start with 4 bricks connected and take 1 away for simple addition practice etc. ). Sometimes using manipulatives, such as LEGO bricks, when teaching younger children can help to ensure long-term retention.
    • Science:  Hands-on experiment's are a blast for the kids! Learning through trial and error / hands-on activity, always is! Try out this fun science experiment using LEGO Bricks:



    A big thank you to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester for sharing this fun LEGO Science Experiment with our readers!










    Inside Out : Get Ready To Meet The Little Voices Inside Your Head - Coming Soon From Disney Pixar

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    Pixar is making movie magic yet again, and we seriously can't wait!

    Disney Pixar is putting a face to our emotions in a way that only they can. All of the feelings that we have each experienced (joy, fear, anger, disgust, and sadness) are being brought to life in character form, in Pixar's 15th feature length film; Inside Out. 

    Check out the trailer and MORE on Inside Out below:



    Official Film Synopsis for Disney Pixar Inside Out
    From an adventurous balloon ride above the clouds to a monster-filled metropolis, Academy Award®-winning director Pete Docter (“Monsters, Inc.,” “Up”) has taken audiences to unique and imaginative places. In Disney•Pixar’s original movie “ Inside Out,” he will take us to the most extraordinary location of all—inside the mind. 

    Growing up can be a bumpy road, and it's no exception for Riley, who is uprooted from her Midwest life when her father starts a new job in San Francisco. Like all of us, Riley is guided by her emotions – Joy (Amy Poehler), Fear (Bill Hader), Anger (Lewis Black), Disgust (Mindy Kaling) and Sadness (Phyllis Smith). The emotions live in Headquarters, the control center inside Riley’s mind, where they help advise her through everyday life. As Riley and her emotions struggle to adjust to a new life in San Francisco, turmoil ensues in Headquarters. Although Joy, Riley's main and most important emotion, tries to keep things positive, the emotions conflict on how best to navigate a new city, house and school.

    Disney Pixar 's  Inside Out is set to make it's debut in U.S. theaters (nationwide) on June 19, 2015


    P.S.  The short " LAVA " {which looks sweet} will make  it's debut in front of Inside Out. You can check out the teaser trailer for LAVA below:





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    Fun Fall Bounty Paper Towel Tube Kids Crafts #TryThisAtLowes + $100 Lowes Gift Card Giveaway

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    I am going to be real here. My house isn't always spotless. I know. GASP!

    Sometimes, the mess honestly makes my head spin! But most of the time, I'm OK with it. My kids are busy growing, learning and making memories. They are happy. So, it's all good. I just make sure to keep plenty of Bounty Basic paper towels and an arsenal of my favorite cleaning supplies on hand, to clean it all up after they've been tucked into bed at night!

    Once everything has been scrubbed clean and put away, I love to up-cycle/incorporate all of the empty paper towel tubes into fun craft projects for the kids. 

    We  made a few fun messes recently while creating these {adorable} Fall  Paper Towel Tube Kids Crafts:


    These super simple  upcycled paper towel tube Halloween treat boxes are a fun way for kids to present a few fun size pieces of candy or candy corn to friends/classmates. Each paper towel tube yields 2 treat boxes. Simply cut each tube in half. Next color or paint your paper towel tubes(with washable/non-toxic paint, markers, or crayons - allow adequate time for drying if necessary).  We created ghosts, pumpkins, monsters and bats (pictured). Once dry, tuck one half of the tissue tube under and fold the second half in (to close off the bottom of the tube). Next, place your pre-wrapped candy/treats inside the tube. Repeat the previous steps to fold and tuck the top of the tube and complete your upcycled Halloween treat box.

    Enjoy your completed upcycled Halloween treat boxes!
    Recreate the beautiful Fall scenery with this fun kids craft! Use washable non-toxic brown paint to hand print/paint the branches (hand print) and tree trunk (forearm). Next, make fingerprint "leaves" on the hand print tree branches in various colors (red, orange, yellow, and green). Using a brush or fingers, create grass around the base of the tree. Next, cut a paper towel tube in half and pinch the center of the tube to form a heart shape with the tube, Dip the end of the tube in orange paint and stamp on the paper around the base of the tree to create your pumpkins. Fill in your pumpkins using a paintbrush or finger paint.
    These adorable upcycled paper towel tube Hand Print Turkey Thanksgiving centerpieces are so easy to make! They are sure to stay put on your Thanksgiving table too with an easy to make weighted center. Simply cut your paper towel tube in half. Cover the tube in gold or brown duct tape. Cover the bottom of the tube with duct tape as well (leave the top open for the next step). Pour about a quarter cup of uncooked dry rice into the center of the tube. Cover the top of the tube with duct tape.

    Next, trace the outside of your child's hand on yellow, red, orange and brown construction paper (3 hand prints in each color). Cut the hand prints out using safety scissors. Fan the hand prints out and glue them in alternating colors to your covered & weighted paper towel tube. Next, glue two googly eyes to your covered paper towel tube. Cut out a "gobbler" using excess red construction paper and a beak for your turkey out of the excess construction paper (in a color of your choice). Glue your gobbler and beak to your paper towel tube hand print turkey. Allow adequate time for glue to dry.

    Happy Fall & Happy Crafting!

    Ready for some more Fall DIY creative inspiration?  Head over to PopSugar to see DIY guru Brooke Peterson tackling more fun Fall DIY projects. I am definitely going to have to give her Fall welcome mat tutorial a try - seriously SUPER CUTE!

    Feeling creative yet? What Fall project would you like to tackle this season? 

    Need some supplies to get started? We have a $100 Lowes Gift Card to give away to (1) One Savvy Mom reader!

    Entry is simple - enter through the Giveaway Tools Form below:




    Disclosure: Our thanks to P&G for providing a gift card for review/feature purposes and for providing a gift card for giveaway purposes for (1) One Savvy Mom reader. All opinions expressed are our own.


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    A House Full Of Superheroes

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    This year we have a bit of a theme going in our home for Halloween, which is a first for us. We have baby Superman, Wonder Woman, and the Flash in the house!

    My older two decided pretty early on (like way back in the beginning of the Summer!) that this year was going to be a theme year. They really wanted to incorporate their baby brother in the Halloween fun. Thus, their DC Comics Superhero plan was hatched!

    The relationship and bond that they all have is truly an amazing thing to witness as a mom.  My older two are very close in age, and they experienced everything together. It's so much different this time around. They are witnessing all of his firsts, and are now seeing everything around them with a fresh perspective. It's as if they are seeing everything through his eyes, for the first time.

    We adore all three of these costumes; they are all well made and incredibly detailed. They are the perfect fit for this family milestone.  Baby Superman's first Halloween.  It's sure to be a memorable one, for us all!

    What are your kids going to be for Halloween this year?

    **Company sent samples. All opinions expressed are our own.

    You can find the Girl's Wonder Women Costume, the Deluxe Kids Flash Costume, and the Superman Onesie  pictured at http://www.halloweencostumes.com/ 





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    Adapting To Life With Celiac Disease: Great Gluten Free Choices For Kids + Tips For Going Gluten Free On A Budget

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    One of the biggest issues that we have encountered as my daughter has been adapting to her new diet restrictions with Celiac Disease, has been finding replacements for some of her old favorites.  Mac & Cheese, chicken fingers, Oreo's (and all other baked goods for that matter), pizza etc... all of those "kid favorites" were suddenly off limits for her. Thankfully, we have scouted out some great gluten-free recipe hacks and ready-to-eat snacks(through a TON of trial and error) that she seems to enjoy just as much!



    I'm not going to lie though. Gluten-free food can at times be an acquired taste. When dealing with a gluten-free dietary restriction for children, sacrificing on taste can make the process of going gluten-free traumatizing.  Think about it. This is a HUGE change for a child to navigate.

    In going gluten-free, I tried (and honestly failed on many occasions) to find "compare to" products to replace what she felt she was missing out on. We tried a variety of gluten-free macaroni and cheese products, a variety of baked goods and bakery mixes, along with a few new recipes. It's been almost a year since our daughter was diagnosed and I can honestly say that I feel like we are JUST NOW finding a groove with her gluten-free diet.

    These are some of my go-to gluten free brands now, and some tips & tricks that I have picked up along the way:

    FIND PRE-MADE SNACKS THAT DON'T SACRIFICE ON FLAVOR! Our daughter is a snacker. Finding flavorful gluten-free snacks was a process to say the very least! 

    These are some of my daughter's favorites:

    Glutino Chocolate Vanilla Creme Cookies:If your child (or you) had an affinity for Oreo's these are almost a dead ringer! So thankful for Glutino products as a mom!

    Glutino White Bread: This bread is HANDS DOWN the BEST Gluten-free bread on the market! And believe me- we have tried a TON of them. Bread is just one of those things that is incredibly hard to duplicate flavor/texture wise in a gluten-free form. Glutino hit the nail on the head with this though! This bread is AMAZING when making French Toast too! Seriously AMAZING!

    LiveGFree Mini Twists Pretzels  : These taste just like her old favorite brand (Snyders) and they are a great snack at home or on-the-go (found at ALDI exclusively)

    LiveGFree Pizza Crust Mix: This pizza crust was a lifesaver! Our daughter was so discouraged the first few months after her diagnosis. She just wanted all of the "normal foods" she saw everyone else eating...like pizza! But we couldn't find a gluten free pizza that tasted good. This pizza crust coupled with a great pizza sauce and mozzarella solved the problem! It tastes great and is pretty easy to make too! (found at ALDI exclusively)

    Live G Free Gluten Free Brownie Mix: These brownies taste amazing! They are actually some of the most moist & delectable brownies that any of us have ever had! The whole family loves them! (found at ALDI exclusively).

    Pillsbury Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough: You can find this in the refrigerated section with the rest of the ready-to-bake cookie dough. These are easily the very best "fresh" baked gluten-free chocolate chip cookies we have experienced! SCORE!

    Popcorners: These fun triangle shaped popcorn chips are fabulous! They are the perfect gluten-free snack/treat, at home or on the go.

    Annie's Rice Pasta & Cheddar: This is the closest mac & cheese we have found to her old instant mac & cheese favorite (Kraft)

    A few things to keep in mind when going gluten-free.

    • The cost. The cost is an adjustment. If you want to buy pre-made / heat & eat gluten free products, it can add up quickly! I would suggest buying a few gluten free snacks and just find recipes that call for gluten-free baking mixture (in place of flour) etc. It will be far easier on your budget and it's the fresher alternative. It's always a bonus, in my opinion, when you know exactly what's going into your food!
    • Not all brands are created equal. As with anything, there are some serious fails in the flavor department when it comes to gluten free products.  I'm not going to sugar coat that one! While it can be a major disappointment for an adult to try a cookie/sandwich bread etc. and discover that they don't like it, it is all the more difficult for a child that is adjusting to dietary restrictions. We (myself included) have tried a ton of different brands over the last year, to try and find the brands that TASTE (not just look) most like the brands that my daughter enjoyed prior to her diagnoses (check out our recommendations above).
    • Keep an eye on the ingredients lists' on food packaging! Think wheat is all you have to watch out for? Think again! There is a long list of ingredients to avoid which include (but are not limited to): Abyssinian Hard (Wheat Triticum duran), Avena (wild oat), Barley (Hordeum Vulgers), Barley malt, barley extract, Blue Cheese, Bran, Bread flour, Broth, Bulgur, Bulgur Wheat, Bulgur nuts, Bouillon, Cereal, Cereal Extract, Cereal binding, Cracker meal, Croutons, Couscous, Dinkle, Durum, Einkorn, Wild Einkorn, Emmer, Wild Emmer, Edible Starch, Farina, Farro, Filler, Flour (including but not limited to: all-purpose, barley, bleached, bread, brown, durum, enriched, gluten, graham, granary, high protein, high gluten, oat, wheat, white), Germ, Gluten, Glutenin, Graham Flour, Hordeum, Horderum, Vulgare, Hdrolyzed oat starch, hydrolyzed wheat gluten, hydrolyzed wheat protein, Kamut, Malt, malt beverages, malt extract, malted milk, malt flavoring, malt syrup, malt vinegar, Matzo (Matzah), MIR (Wheat/Rye) Miso (it can contain barley), Mustard powder, Oats, Oat Bran, Oat Fiber, Oat Gum, Oat Syrup, Oriental Wheat, Rice malt, rice syrup, brown rice syrup, Rye, Soy Sauce (can contain thickening agents that contain wheat), Seitan, Semolina, Spelt, Sprouted Wheat, Tabbuleah, Triticale, Udon, Vital Gluten, Wheat, Wheat Berry, Wheat Brand, Wheat Germ, Wheat Germ Oil, Wheat Germ Grass, Wheat Gluten, Wheat Starch, Whole Wheat Berries.Additionally, there are some useful printable ingredient guides and fact sheets that you can find on the National Foundation For Celiac Awareness websiteHERE
    • Create a Gluten-Free Environment For Food Prep: Even the slightest trace amounts of trace gluten can make someone with Celiac Disease sick. So, you can't toast that gluten-free bread in the same toaster as you use for regular bread for example. We take added precaution with our daughter because she has had some issues arise with trace gluten. We have a separate set of cookware for gluten-free food prep and we make sure to store all of the gluten-free foods/snacks in a separate cabinet.
    I hope you found some of this information helpful. We are still learning as we go!
    If you have any tips on the subject, we would love to hear them! Leave us a comment below.


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    Tinkerbell And The Legend Of The NeverBeast - The Newest Film In The Disney Fairies Line-Up

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    Calling all Disney Fairies fans!

    Get ready for the next Disney Fairies adventure! While we're admittedly excited to see a new addition to the Fairies film line-up, we are thrilled to report that "Once Upon A Time" actress Ginnifer Goodwin will be voicing "Fawn."
    "Fawn is a character who loves all animals unconditionally,"said director Steve Loter. "She will help any animal that needs her, but sometimes Fawn thinks too impulsively, when she should be thinking with her head, as well as her heart."
    Loter added that there is a lot of Goodwin in the character as well.
    "Fawn was inspired by my daughter and her unconditional love of animals," he said."But Ginner had a very strong hand in crafting the character. Her sense of fun and her wondrous view of the world gave Fan direction. You can hear the smile in Ginnifer's voice - this is a character that loves life and lives it to its fullest.
    Check out more images, the full synopsis, and take a peak at the introduction to Gruff in the video below:

     Tinkerbell And The Legend of The NeverBeast Synopsis:
    The heartwarming story explores the ancient myth of a mysterious creature whose distant roar sparks the curiosity of Tinker Bell's friend Fawn, an animal fairy who's not afraid to break the rules to rescue the NeverBeast before time runs out.  The fairies meet Gruff who is a massive creature and the subject of an ancient Pixie Hollow myth.  Hidden in a dark lair on the fringes of the fairies' beloved home, Gruff is discovered by curious and empathetic animal fairy Fawn, who sees something special in his glowing green eyes. His penchant for stacking rocks mystifies Fawn and her friends - but Gruff's true purpose is the real surprise.

    The film also features the voices of Mae Whitman (Tinker Bell), Megan Hilty (Rosetta), Lucy Liu (Silvermist), Raven Symone (Iridessa), Anjelica Huston (Queen Clarion) and is directed by Steve Loter (“Kim Possible”) and produced by Makul Wigert (“Secret of the Wings”).
    Disney Tinker Bell And The Legend Of The NeverBeast is set to release in-home March 3, 2015.
    Ready for a sneak peak at Tinker Bell and the Legend of The NeverBeast? Check out the moment when the Fairies meet Gruff for the first time, in the video below:

     

    Allergen Free Halloween Candy Options For Kids With Food Allergies + The Halloween Candy Buy-Back Program and MORE!

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    Halloween is here. It's a beloved holiday for children nationwide. It means candy. Candy. And MORE CANDY! What kid wouldn't get all revved up for that? 

    I'm going to be real with you though.  While I do allow my children to enjoy candy and sugary treats in moderation, I don't allow them to keep all of their Halloween treats. I'm not a monster. I promise! 

    My reasons are simple.First, our daughter has Celiac's,


    This is the first year of trick-or-treating since she was diagnosed, and she knows that there are many item's that are off limits for her. We love the concept of the Teal Pumpkin Project for kids with allergies - you can check out more on the initiative HERE. If your kids have allergies, take a look at the safe candy options for kids with gluten, nut, dairy and soy allergies below (note: please consult your doctor for additional information on the safety of these options - we are not physicians!)

    Second, who really needs to eat an entire sack of candy? Even if it's consumed over a period of time. It's consumed. All of that sugar isn't good for anyone, let alone, little pint sized kids!

    So, here's what we do. We allow them to choose 25-30 pieces of candy (gluten-free pieces for our daughter this year) and we set it aside in a Ziploc freezer bag with their name on it. We allow them to have a piece a day, as a treat after dinner. That's all. And that's more than plenty, in my opinion!

    Then we're left with a bunch of candy.  We don't want to let it all go to waste though! Here are some fun ( and charitable) idea's on what to do with all of that candy! This is what we'll be doing this year with all of our children's excess.

    DID YOU KNOW? There's a Halloween Candy Buyback Program? That's right! Kids can trade their candy in at a registered dentist in your area for CASH and PRIZES! Head over to  http://www.halloweencandybuyback.com and find a registered dentist in your area. Now, what do they do with all of that candy, you ask? Dentists ship the goodies to our Troops in partnership with Operation Gratitude.  We LOVE this idea - kids have fun tick-or-treating, they get a treat for their efforts, and the Troops get yummy treats to remind them of home! 
    Can't find a participating Dentist in your area? Why not start a new tradition with the kids, with the  "The Switch Witch". 

    Check out more on the Switch Witch below:


    You can find the complete Switch-Witch package at: http://www.switch-witch.com 

    Happy Halloween everyone! We hope that everyone has a SAFE & FUN time trick-or-treating!


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    Fabulous Finds: YoYo.com's Top 35 Hot Toy List

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    I know I say this every year, but seriously, where did the time go? I can't believe that the holiday season is already upon us!
     
    Like most, I'm already scouring the stores and the internet in my spare time for toys that will occupy, entertain, educate, and allow my kids to stretch their wings creatively. I put a HUGE amount of thought and effort into what we gift our children each year, and I appreciate that the folks at YoYo.com have put the same visible amount of effort into curating a prettyfabulous, 2014 Top 35 Hot Holiday Toy List.
    "We know that holiday shopping can be quite overwhelming, and we're here to help with the heavy lifting,"said Emilie Arel Scott, Senior Vice President of Retail at Quidsi. "We've sifted through thousands of kid-tested toys to create a list that engages children and fosters development. Best of all, these toys can be delivered right to your doorstep in 1-2 days. We want to make the shopping experience easier for parents, allowing them to spend less time in stores and waiting in lines and more time enjoying this special time of year with their families."
    YoYo.com's Top 35 Hot Toy List includes mainstream brands that parents have come to know and love such as,  LEGO, Fisher-Price, LeapFrog. They've also included some great item's from premium boutique brands like Janod, Djeco, and the newest hit amongst young girls, GoldieBlox. 
     
    Some of these awesome top 35 picks also made their way into our top picks - which will publishing shortly with our 2014 Holiday Gift Guide. Keep an eye out for hands-on video reviews of some of these fun finds over the next few days too!

    Now, without further adieu, I give you YoYo.com's 2014 Top 35 Hot Toy List:

    Baby
    Toddler
    Boys Ages 4-9
    Girls Ages 4-9
    I know, some pretty fabulous finds, right? For the full YoYo.com Hot Toy List, visit:
    http://www.yoyo.com/hottoylist.

    ** Disclosure: Media samples were provided for review purposes. All opinions expressed are our own.


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    Change The Way Your Children Store & Care For Their Glasses With Lenz Frenz ®

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    Do you have a child that wears eyeglasses? Help ease the transition into wearing and caring for their eyeglasses, with these new plush cases from Lenz Frenz! SUPER CUTE, right? 

    These plush animal cases house a hard shell {lined} case, that protects your child's glasses while en-route and at home.  These little cuties also help prevent loss of eyeglasses both by design and size; the Lenz Frenz is far easier to spot {especially for a child} than a standard eyeglass case!  


    We adore that a caring mother (Molly Lofthouse) designed Lenz Frenz. You all know how I feel about mom invented products. I definitely think it's safe to say that I have an affinity for smart children's products, designed by smart moms! 
    More About Lenz Frenz:
    The standard 14" Lenz Frenz® is a carefully detailed plush animal with full-sized, hard-shelled and padded glasses case built into the body. The rear-opening case is permanently attached inside the animal to insure the glasses are safely housed inside the Lenz Frenz® as he will be, undoubtedly, toted to and fro. The large-sized Lenz Frenz® also have proprietary earpiece holders camouflaged on the animals head so the animal can "wear" the glasses too when they are not stored in the case or being worn by your child.

    Li'l Lenz Frenz  is is a 6" miniaturized version for contact lenses. The same level of care and detail has gone into making Li'l Lenz Frenz  a stylish, on-the-go option for those who wear contacts. Li'l Lenz Frenz comes in six characters (Teddy,PuppyUnicornMonkeyT-Rex, and Owl), and also comes with a FREE contacts case!

    Check out more on how the secret case inside the Lenz Frenz works in the video below:

    You can find Lenz Frenz at: www.mylenzfrenz.com





    Be Bold. Be You. #LMMUBU

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    My daughter. Since the very beginning, there was just something about her. 

    See that picture up above? Top left. The one with her little pinky finger sticking out, while she's devouring a Christmas cookie? That's my lulu! We knew THAT early on, that our daughter was a force to be reckoned with.

    She does everything with equal amounts of pizzazz and grace. 

    She has always been opinionated and she has always voiced her opinion with very little reserve. It keeps us on our toes around here.

    She has always stood up for herself and she's quick to protect the ones she loves. 

    Her personality is larger than life.

    She doesn't give much thought to what others think about her. 

    She's completely comfortable in her own skin. 

    I aspire to be more like her someday.
    Her personality definitely shines through in her everyday fashion choices. She has ALWAYS had an eye for fashion and she has always had her own very individual sense of style. See that other pic above? Top, bottom right? Yep, she's the kind of gal that breaks out the glitter boots and goes head to toe pink, for an afternoon of horseback riding. You can't miss her! She usually has a fabulous hat, purse, and sunglasses to match too. She loves to accessorize!

    Fashion is a huge creative outlet for my daughter. It allows her to express herself. It's her very own personal billboard {her words - not mine}. So, I try not to interfere too much when it comes to her attire (within reason of course).
    One of her go-to favorite brands?  Little Miss Matched! Self-expression is what this brand is all about. All of their mix & match pieces offer up bright pops of color, bold patterns, and fun graphics.

    Her newest obsession from Little Miss Matched? The Plumtastic Peacoat  (pictured above and below). This adorable coat proves that pulling on the extra layers this season, doesn't have to snuff out your style! They have updated a classic design with uber cute and colorful buttons, and a bright pop of purple.

    The quality is instantly apparent too. Check out the satin heart lining and the inner pink piping. (pictured above). All of this detail, at a price point of $69? Just fabulous!

    Their motto? "Think outside the socks. Dress beyond the 

    box.Twist orange & blue. Be bold. Let you be you." 

    WE LOVE IT!


    Share your fave LMM looks with #LMMUBU and you could be featured on their site.

    Love the Plumtastic Peacoat as much as we do? You can find it at select retail locations nationwide and online at: http://littlemissmatched.com/

    **Disclosure: A media sample was provided for review purposes. All opinions expressed are our own.


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