; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'UA-6252405-9'); In the Mommy Trenches: December 2012

Saturday, December 8, 2012

Unicef Great Gift Giving

At this time of year, more than any other, we become so much more aware of how little so many have.  It serves as a reminder to us that we are so very blessed to be living in this Country and to have shelter over our heads a food in our stomaches. 

At this time of year, when my children are showered lavishly with gifts from aunts, uncles and grandparents, it makes it even more important for me to teach my children how to give back to those in need.  It's important for them to realize that we are living the exception, not the norm here.  

Which is why programs like Unicef's Ethical Giving is growing more and more in popularity among Canadians. 

Christmas with Hallmark

Well, I’m a little late with this post because it seems like Christmas is just around the corner.  On the other hand, maybe you are weary of battling the crowds and need to take some time out to pause and enjoy some of the simpler and prettier things in life.


Which is why I present to you … Things That Make Me Smile from Hallmark’s latest holiday seasonal offerings.

Hallmark Swooshin Duo.

I have to admit I am a sucker for these types of holiday decorations.  In fact, I get just about as excited to press that button as my nine year old.  Check out the video below.



Adorable, right?   Just $15.95 with the purchase of three Hallmark Cards. 

Bell, Interactive Story Buddy.

bell She’s too sweet for words.  Bell responds as you read key words or phrases from her book.  My girls love this little puppy and enjoyed reading “Bell’s Big Move.  Also included is a read-along cd.  My 7 year old loves for me to put the cd on when she goes to bed.  She snuggles up with Bell and listens to the story before falling asleep.  Also available is online story time at Hallmark.com/Bell and Bell’s Big Move app available on the App Store.  Priced at $34.95

Wireless Children’s Angel Choir

Quite possibly my favourite Hallmark item this year.  Each of the four angels in the choir moves in time to the two songs that each sings individually.  When put together with other members of the choir, they sync up wirelessly with each other and move in time and sing or play along with each other.  Each angel sings two.  Just $14.95 with any purchase at a Hallmark store.  I have Faith and Michael and definitely would like to get the other two to complete the set.  Adorable.




My two other favourite items that I received in my Hallmark package were 


Glad to Greet You Snowball Door Decor

This little guy is motion activated singing a parody of "Deck the Halls" and says seven phrases.  It looks like  it is supposed to hang on your window with window cling, but I'm not really trusting it as the snowball itself is fairly heavy. It could be that I've misunderstood the instructions though but I used a hook to hang it up anyways.  It is a little bit loud so I am thankful there is an off switch for when it gets to be too much.  A great crowd pleaser though and lots of fun. 


Talking Mistletoe

Another motion activated item, this Mistletoe turns up the laughs with a funny French accent and silly sayings.  Like "On the second day of Christmas, my true love gave to me... two French kisses.  What can I say, I'm allergic to Hens." 


Recordable Storybooks 
It doesn't matter how many times I see these books, they are always so special.  My children really enjoy listening to me record a story for them and then playing it back later.  A great gift for those moms or dads that have to work away or maybe just can't make it back at bedtime.  Nothing like helping a child feel loved or secure than by hearing their parent's voices.  And now since my daughter is now 9, she loves the idea of recording her own voice as she reads the story. 

Of course, Hallmark has wonderful other gift ideas such as keepsake ornaments, beautiful Christmas cards, Christmas Albums and more.  

To check out these items and for more information or to find a store near you, visit www.Hallmark.ca.

Well, any of these items bring smile to your face?  Let me know in a comment below.

Happy shopping, 

Zeemaid
*disclosure, I received the above items in order to conduct my review.  As always the opinions and experiences stated herein are my own and truly reflect my views on the products reviewed.*

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Getting Your Teeth Clean Arm & Hammer

Part of being a mom to three children means that I don’t always take care of myself the way I should.  Sure I would like to visit the dentist every 6 months but my busy schedule and health plan means I’m lucky to squeeze a cleaning in once every 9 months.  So I do worry about plaque and plaque build up especially since I’m not a great flosser.

When I heard that the ARM & HAMMER® Spinbrush™ Pro Clean™ Battery Toothbrush can remove up to 70% more plaque in those hard to reach places, I was eager to try it.