Fashion to Figure Giveaway!

Fashion to Figure is a full-fashion company that sells very trendy and fashionable clothes for plus size women at great fast fashion prices!  One lucky reader will get to choose one item ($30 or less) from the Fashion to Figure website for their very own!  Free clothes! Who doesn't love that?!  It's perfect for getting something special for the holidays.

Tell me what you like on Fashion to Figure and you'll be entered to win!  Winner chosen at random on November 4, 2011. For US residents only.

Neve Designs Annika Sweater

Fun Find- Last year I reviewed the Alanna shawl from Neve Designs and fell in love.  The soft, large shawl kept me warm many winter days and nights.  A year later it is still just as new, fresh and stylish.  I will use it again this winter and add to it my latest Neve Designs piece, the Annika sweater ($187). 

A zip-neck front made of 100% fine Merino wool this sweater in Grape is going to look fabulous come cooler weather.  I can't wait to wear it this Thanksgiving when we head to a ski resort for a week.  The knit on this sweater is soft, thick and really smooth.  It looks great with jeans, a nice wool skirt and boots or khaki's.  It comes in four colors- Grape with orange and pink accents, Black with red accents, Charcoal with blue designs and Gem which is more like a fuchsia.  I love the Nordic design and how incredibly well made this sweater is and that it is super comfortable. 

Neve Designs makes clothing and jewelry for men and women.  They can be purchased online, at REI and Sierra Trading Company.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post.  Products received are for review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only. 

dENiZEN Jeans

New this summer to Target are the American classic jeans dENiZEN! These great-fitting, affordable, fashionable jeans work well for the entire family. Created by Levi's (circa 1853) this American company knows jeans.

We received a pair of size 6 skinny jeans ($17.99) for my daughter. She starts kindergarten this Fall and new jeans were on the top of our back to school shopping list. The jeans are soft (she won't wear them if they are not) and have a nice on-trend dark wash. There is a bit of stretch to them and a tapered leg. I love the adjustable waist on these jeans. She's small but tall and the adjustable waist band is the only way we can wear pants that fit her height and middle. The fact that I can buy the Skinny style and the two other styles (Super Skinny, Slim Boot) at Target is such a bonus.

Like dENiZEN on Facebook and get a surprise!

MPR Rating: Five Stars.

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only. Opinions are MPR's only.

IZ BYER for Fall

Fun Find-It's that time of year again! Time to go shopping for back to school clothes or additions to your Fall wardrobe. IZ BYER at Kohl's is a great place to look. It is on trend, affordable and works well for juniors, misses and those of you just starting out at the office for the first time.



Look at this cute shirt! I thought it would be a bit too much in the ruffle department, but when I tried it on it was just perfect! Priced to move you can get it at your local Kohl's today!

Check out IZ BYER on Facebook too!

Mine for Nine Giveaway!

This week I am giving away a $50 gift code to a truly unique website. It's all about maternity clothing, I know, stop groaning. Trust me, I have worn three sets of maternity clothes and had to buy new stuff each time. It was not fun for me or my budget. I wish I had known about Mine for Nine.

Mine for Nine is such a find! It is all about getting the clothes you need for those special nine months and then returning them when you are done. No need to kill your budget and spend a fortune on maternity clothes with Mine for Nine. Simply pick what you want, pay way less than you would retail (yes, you rent them!) and then ship them back when you are done. It's easy, there's no storing of the maternity clothes later and it works really well if you have a special occasion and don't want to spend a fortune.

How are the clothes? Gorgeous! They are trendy, classic, and come from all over the world. You cannot go wrong with Mine for Nine.

I'm giving away a $50 gift code to one lucky reader! To enter visit here and tell me if you would wear such a think while pregnant. I will choose a winner at random on August 26, 2011. Good Luck!

For additional entries:

Follow me http://twitter.com/#!/veamason on Twitter

Retweet this giveaway!

Like MPR on Facebook

Become a Follower of The Mummy Chronicles

Deal for Dad: Free Shipping on $99 at Macy’s

Yes, it’s that time of year again! June is here which means Father’s Day will soon be here! It’s Sunday, June 19th to be exact. Now is the time to shop for the best gift for Dad. So many great stores are offering special sales and discounts on men’s apparel, cologne, tools and other awesome items for men. Since he’s worked hard to give you the best, you’ll want to buy gifts that will help him relax from his hectic work schedule and gifts that will make him feel like the special guy the family knows and loves. Macy’s has some really great options this year. There are a lot of great items on sale like this Hotel Collection "Cotton" Long Bath Robe now $99.99 marked down from $135! That will save you about $35.



Dad will definitely enjoy his special day while lounging around and being waited on by all who love him. This plush rob is made of 100% cotton, machine washable and looks delightfully cozy. Macys.com online shoppers gave it a 4.3 out of 5 stars review! All he needs is his comfy recliner for an afternoon of rest and relaxation! Mom might be a bit jealous, so remember to tell her where she can get her own for this awesome price.

When you spend $99 you automatically will get FREE SHIPPING! This is nice and is offered year-round. No one wants to pay shipping costs, but online shoppers love the convenience so it’s nice to have this option as an incentive. You should also look around for Macy’s coupon codes and printable Macy’s coupons as they will likely be giving out some great ones closer to Father’s Day.




*Guest post by CouponMountain.com

Fun Find- Calypso St. Barth for Target

I gave a glimpse of some of the Calypso St. Barth home decor in my Mother's Day gift guide but now I have had the chance to sample some of the clothing items in the baby/toddler area.

These two lovely ensembles may not be volcanic* but they are quite cute with their bright colors and soft cotton fabrics. Available in stores NOW and priced to sell fast! Prices are about $15-20 for sets or dresses.

*Bonus points if you got the Pretty in Pink reference.

Mother's Day Gift Round-Up

I have a bit of a problem doing a Mother's Day gift guide here. After all, it is mainly Dad's that buy the gifts to give to the kids or the kids themselves and according to my demographics they are not the ones reading this here ol' blog. But so be it- these gifts are great for all sorts of women, mothers or not.

From Abe's Market-

New Moms love Dapple: A line of all-natural, baby-safe cleaning products created by two moms to tackle the messes that only babies can make. Dapple’s popular “Clean Up Kit,” is the perfect starter set and includes Dapple Dish Liquid (for breast pumps, baby bottles, and more), Dapple Toy Cleaner in spray and wipes (for toys, high chairs, strollers, and anything sticky hands touch), Dapple Toy Cleaner travel wipes and a cotton clean up cloth. http://tinyurl.com/3g8hp2b


Charitable Moms Love Peacekeeper Cause-Metics: This line of beauty products (nail polishes, lipsticks, lip glosses, and lip balms) donates ALL of its distributable profits after taxes to support women's health advocacy and human rights issues - from helping victims of domestic abuse and rape to supporting research to fight breast cancer, heart disease, and more. http://tinyurl.com/4xr27hp


Moms with a Green Thumb Love Bloomin’: What better way to express your love for mom than with these recycled letter pressed cards embedded with an array of annual and perennial wildflower seeds? The present is built right in - just plant, water and watch your garden grow! http://tinyurl.com/488blhn


Be globally concious with a shirt from Project Iris. Each short or long sleeve t-shirt proceeds go towards to provide nutritious meals to mothers and their young children in the developing world.

From Target- where Dad and the kids might actually go even if it is at the last minute. The thought is there and these things are super cute, stylish and wallet-friendly too.

-Delightful decorative pillows from Calypso St. Barth

For the woman who likes to garden-


Smith & Hawken Garden Tool Gift Set ($29.99)

Myself, I like a good book, the time to run if the weather is nice and the ability to sleep and not cook a meal. I'm predictable with these requests each year.

Books I've recieved and loved or want right now?

Bossypants by Tina Fey
Such a Pretty Fat by Jen Lancaster
Edith Wharton by Hermione Lee
The Social Climber's Handbook by Molly Jong-Fast

Fun Find- Farofa Nation T-Shirts

Used to describe and eclectic blend or mix Farofa Nation T-Shirts is brand with a conscience.  Created by a husband and wife team and with 10% of the profits going to TASK BRASIL these tees are unique and diverse in design. 

T-Shirts for men, women and children are available all with a crafty feel created by local Miami artists.  There are new designs released each season and the kids ones are different and cute.  My two year-old looks great in her super soft light blue submarine tee ($16) by Rony Cinco. She wears it to bed or out of the house it is so soft and light.

For more on Farofa T-Shirts and TASK BRASIL visit their website.

*Image from breezymama.com

Need a last minute gift idea?  Then look no further than Neve Designs.  The Boulder, Colorado based company offers sweaters, knits and other accessories, including jewelry with a fresh, Nordic feel to them.  Always soft, always up-to-date Neve Designs has something for anyone on your list.

I received the gorgeous black Alanna shawl ($152) from them recently and loved how thick, soft and warm it is. It's almost like a blanket but I can wear it for a night out or even at home.  It is so versatile and made from 100% ultra-fine Merino wool.  The knit is in a charcoal paisley print that is reversible as well.  The Alanna shawl comes in three other colors Elm (green), Wisteria (blue) and Wine (red).  I love this shawl and I have even loaned it out to friends in need. 

Neve Designs offers women's and men's clothing in a variety of styles but all of them are designed to keep you warm and functional, yet stylish at the same time.  You can purchase their clothing online or in ski shops nationwide. 

MPR Rating: Four Stars.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post.  Products receieved are for review and testing purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only. 

Image from Shopwithmemama.com

Fun Find- The Koobli

I have three kids and one craft cabinet.  Messes can occur at any given time.  The Koobli ($25) saves me. 

What the heck is a Koobli? 

"koobli™ is a unisex cover-up garment designed to protect your clothing from life’s unpredictable spills and messes. Made from soft, supple, strong 100% micro polyester suede, koobli™ is lightweight and easy to slip on and pull off — use it to cover work outfits, suits, uniforms, gowns, etc. Tough enough for multiple wearings yet disposable when necessary, koobli™'s simple, sensible and functional design makes it a must-have for busy parents and caregivers."

Start the New Year off right. Save some clothes and invest in one of these fantastic garments.  Available in blueberry and cherry colors.  Buy one here.

MPR's 2010 Holiday Gift Guide

Small, sweet, a touch different.  Things I love that won't have you going over budget this year.  It's MPR's Holiday Gift Guide. By no means comprehensive but feel free to peruse the archives for even more ideas. 

Stocking Stuffers

EOS lip balm - ($3.99) small little spheres are super moisturizing lip balm.  Sold in a cute trio at your local Walgreens and available online too!  Alone or in the set the mint, medicated tangerine, lemon drop and more make great stocking stuffers.

Arbonne sea salt scrub-($28)  Smells heavenly, is super moisturizing and exfoliating. Perfect for winter skin!  It comes in three scents- citrus, lavendar and yling ylang.  I love it in the gift size or tub. 

Butter London nail lacquer ($14) No formaldehyde, no toulene, no DBP.  Just amazing and unique colors. 

Lonely Planet's 'Moveable Feast' ($10) available at Amazon.  A nice find for travel lovers and foodies.

Funky Men's Socks.  Weird, maybe?  But I find them at Target all year round.  My husband loves wild argyle colored ones, skull and crossbones, fish, whatever.  They are stylish if done right and add a bit more to their sometimes mundane wardrobe. 

EZ Sox- Perfect for little ones just learning to dress themselves. The adorable animal sox will teach them how to put them on and make quite a fashion statement. 

Gifts for Kids and Baby

Petit Tresor baby for Target- ($3-20) In soft, sweet pastels this limited time brand is being offered in bibs, blankets, lovies, hats, pants, sleepers and onesies.  I love the boys bear print with gingham accents. 

Red Tool box- Geared for boys and girls ages 8 and up these are real tools that kids can use.  It's a wonderful way to teach a child about woodworking and spend quality time together. 

eeBoo Picnic Game - ($16.99) Fill your plate and blanket with yummy treats and don't forget the napkin! A fun board game for kids 5 and up.  A tea party version is also available. 

Weeble Wobbles- They're baaack! Classic toys from Playskool they offer a great way for the toddler set to play and create a world full of imaginary scenarios. 

Princess Bubble- A great take on princesses when you have had enough of all those other pink, frilly, under-the-sea crown-wearing girls.  I love reading it to my daughters and giving them a better idea of what the world has to offer while still being under the guise of a princess. Truly a modern fairy tale.

Frances England- Any of her CD's will do.  Preschool age kids and under will love her sweet voice that doesn't sound too folksy or babyish. 

Babypop Designs Kids Cape- In almost any color and design these simple capes work for both boys and girls ten and under.  Order early to get them on time!  Your kid won't want to take their personalized cape off!

Carter's also has adorable holiday pajamas for a variety of ages as well as cute and stylish party clothes like this dress. 

For the Tweens and Teens

Tired of itunes gift cards or gift cards in general?  Don't want to give in and buy another expensive gadget or $200 pair of jeans or kicks?  Check out these ideas!

Beanies and Crocheted headbands- So many styles and colors to choose from at this Etsy shop. 

Snowglobe rings ($20), Cool tights or leggings, Twitter and Hashtag jewelry.

Pelican’s 2390 Flashlight to aid in any potential roadside emergency. In the event of a flat tire, it features a bright LED for ultimate illumination and a strong aluminum body that can double as a self defense item. Pelican’s 2390 Flashlight is the perfect trunk item in sticky situations too.

A custom skateboard ($60) from Zazzle! American Eagle Striped Sweater ($39.50) or Hammacher Schlemmer's Roll Up Drum Kit ($60) are great ideas for the guys.

The Find has these cool, manhole cover rugs for $25 too.

The Men Folk

Uncommon Goods has these great Whiskey Stones for $19 and Recycled Laptop Sleeves ($30) or a Bokashi Compost Starter ($60) if he likes to live in the garden.  For another $20 throw in a Salsa of the Month club gift from Amazing Clubs. 

Eastern Mountain Sports has a Gadget Charger pod for $50.

Mix Tape Memory Stick ($19.95 ) from X-treme Geek.




Last, but not Least, For Her

Murano Glass ring at Forzieri ($38) comes in beautiful colors for all tastes.  Mac and Jac Flyaway Cardigan ($69) from Nordstrom is warm, cozy and super stylish. 

Philosophy fans rejoice!  Their travel set is now available for $35 at Sephora and is great for jet-setters.  Sephora is a wonderful way to find gifts for the beauty queen in your life no matter what the age too.

Kohl's and New Balance have a pink running/workout jacket that is part of 'Race for the Cure' ($34). Pants, tanks and more are available in the pretty pink and black motif.

Karmaloop.com has an amazing Jack BB Dakota coat for $64 that is a must for any woman's wardrobe. 

Indie Film of the Month Club by Film Movement($42) with nothing to return ever.


Happy Holiday's! 

Makaboo Kissy Kissy Personalized Playsuit

Made from 100% Pima cotton the Makaboo Kissy Kissy Personalized Playsuit is soft, comfortable and adorable on any baby.  I made one myself for our newest addition and found the process of personalization easy and the results just right.

I picked out the collared long-sleeved playsuit for our daughter and after clicking on the quantity and size I was asked to pick an embroidery color and script.  There are quite a few to choose from and you can create a number of combinations.  I chose a red thread with a simple "jane" font.  The look is classic.  The fit is true to size and the playsuit hasn't shrunk or showed wear after repeated washings.  I love the way it looks and how soft the fabric is.  The Kissy Kissy ($24) makes a wonderful, affordable gift for a baby shower or new baby present.  Add it to a gift bag or basket to create a one of a kind, personalized gift to treasure.

Makaboo is based out of St. Louis, MO and prides itself on its personalized products. Ordering was a snap and my product came quicker than I thought.  It was wrapped nicely and had good presentation.  It's a quality product.  Makaboo also sells bathrobes, onesies, pillows, burp clothes, lovies, belts, blankets, hats, nightgowns and a wide array of other baby and toddler products to personalize.  It's a great company and find!

MPR Rating: Five Stars.

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this post.  Products received were for review and testing purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only.

September Snuggle Giveaway from Paul Frank!

Paul Frank would like to help you welcome the chillier season with a warm September Snuggle package! One lucky reader will receive the following-

- 3 pairs of Paul Frank socks

- 1 pair of Paul Frank pajama pants (for mom)

- Skurvy bed sheets

- High Five (touch-and-feel book)

- Julius the monkey plush
 
Simply comment to enter and I will choose a winner at random on Friday, October 1, 2010.  Good luck!

Garanimals Clothing for Kid's

Garanimals clothing, does it ring a bell?  Chances are you wore it as a child and now your kids are probably wearing them as well.  Founded in 1972 this children's clothing line is all about mixing and matching while letting your child be free to choose what they want to wear.  Available exclusively at Walmart ($3-29) these affordable clothes are sold as separates that can be interchanged to create a variety of colorful, fun looks that work well for ages infant to preschooler. 

We received two outfits- one for each child and just in time for the summer heat to set in.  My four year-old received a size four ensemble consisting of a bright yellow tank and matching yellow shorts.  The tags inside depict an animal that the other corresponding pieces in the line would work well with if she wanted to mix and match them. It's a great idea that kids can easily understand.  The outfit, made of 100% cotton, fit her perfectly.  She is a long, lean and petite child and the size four was just right.  This made me think that sizes tend to run a bit on the small side for waists and overall fit.  The size 18 months shorts and t-shirt for my other daughter also fit her well in the waist- she is a bit thicker and shorter- while the shirt was ran a tad long.  M:y kids found the all the pieces soft and comfortable and they loved the bright colors.  They washed well and didn't fade or shrink.  After repeated use the clothes still look new, which you sometimes don't get with less expensive clothing.  Garanimals are well made and I would purchase them again. 

The Garanimals clothing line was a hit in our house and one that we would go back to.  Having a third child on the way I think that we just might be hitting the racks of Garanimals in the near future.

MPR Rating:  Four Stars.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post.  Products received were for testing and review purposes only.  Opinions are only from MPR.

Win a Dress from Shabby Apple!

How incredibly gorgeous is this dress? I know! I want it all for myself!

"The turquoise Secretary dress aka '90 WPM' ($64) has ruching at the sides to flatter hips and a tie at neck. The dress's puff sleeves have a band that hit just above elbow. The skirt hits just below knee. It is made of poly/rayon/spandex jersey."

You can have it though. Just enter to win by visiting here. Then post your comment below telling me what your favorite post is and don't forget to include your contact email. A winner will be chosen at random on October 16, 2009.

Want 10% off Shabby Apple items? Tell them I sent you with this coupon- Mummychronicles10off. Use it fast - It expires Oct 29, 2009.

Congratulations to Adrian on winning the Shabby Apple dress! Thank you to all those who entered too.

Purex Complete 3-in-1

Purex Complete 3-in-1 is a one sheet wonder. One sheet and all your laundry needs are complete. It comes in three scents Pure & Clean, Tropical Escape, Spring Oasis. You can use the single sheet to wash, dry and remove static from each load of laundry. All you have to do is drop the sheet in first, then your dirty laundry. When the load is done simply remember to take it out with the wet clothes and add it into the dryer. Toss when you remove the clothes from the dryer and you are done!

I tried the Pure & Clean version of this new product from Purex for a few weeks and found that I liked not having to use two to three separate products. No measuring, no bulky bottles taking up space on the laundry room shelves, and no spills from sticky detergent or fabric softener to worry about and clean up. I also like the idea that Purex is trying to be sustainable with this new product. While it may not be an all around 'green' cleaner it is less waste. It is also 100% satisfaction guaranteed or your money back. My clothes were clean, it removed stains easily and with each load they were static free.

My only issue with the Purex Complete 3-in-1 is that it isn't a green clean alternative, which is what I use on a regular basis. I don't use fabric softener either but instead reusable laundry balls. However, the Purex Complete 3-in-1 has a great starter kit (1 dispenser + 20 laundry sheets) and a refill pouch (24 sheets). The product does what it claims to do and it has received rave reviews from many users. It is a good value for your money and conveniently available in a variety of grocery and discount stores nationwide.

MPR Rating: Three Stars.

Yummie Tummie Shapewear

Coming in 13 styles (regular and long) and 10 colors Yummie Tummie shapewear is a great way to look slim and trim. It shapes and smooths your curves and can be worn day or night.

I tested the Strappy Regular tank ($72) out for the first time on New Year's Eve. Being six week post-partum I definitely had some extra tummy to conceal and this tank fit nicely under my sweater hiding that extra post-baby bulge. I looked ready for a night out! I have worn it a few times since then and even as I continue to lose the baby weight the Yummie Tummie holds my stomach in without feeling too tight or uncomfortable. It's a very soft, smooth fabric and it hugs my hips a bit as well. It works well for everyday wear and special occasions. It has made it a whole lot easier to fit into some of my smaller shirts too.

I have heard that binding works really well for women after having a baby and I think the Yummie Tummie would help get your stomach back to it's pre-pregnant days in this way as well. Even if you haven't had a child but are carrying a bit of extra holiday weight the Yummie Tummie has a shapewear option for you. "No matter how young, fit and slender you are, a so-called “muffin top” or tummie bulge will rear its ugly head." Isn't that the never talked about truth?!

To learn more about the Yummie Tummie and this woman-owned company visit the website here. Seen on Oprah, Entertainment Tonight and more the Yummie Tummie can be purchased online in all its beautiful styles and colors (leopard included!) or at these locations.

ProWash Activewear Detergent

My husband likes to run, hit the gym and to box. That last one creates some of the stinkiest, hard to remove odors I have ever encountered in the laundry department. While I work out and run myself I never have the problem of my running gear still smelling of sweat and dirt like he does after boxing. That is why I agreed to review ProWash the Activewear Detergent.

ProWash works on fabrics but particularly well on the wick away dri-fit types that remove moisture (read: sweat) from your body and then hold onto it and hold onto it. After a while that fabric has sort of a funk to it no matter what I do. I took some of my husband's ridiculously rank gym clothes that had been sitting for a week in the clothes hamper and threw them in the wash with a dose of ProWash. In only one wash they smelled clean and fresh. Not overdone in the scent department either. The one garment that I could smell a few yards away now just had an absence of scent which was way better than it was before.

I have to be honest, I thought this was a bunch of hooey when I first received ProWash. Nothing has gotten that blue dri-fit shirt clean and fresh smelling in the last few months. Nothing. Even repeated washings. Not the case after one round with ProWash. In boxing terms, it's a knock-out!

ProWash is available at Walmart, Harris Teeter and online at Amazon and Drugstore.com. The package is eco-friendly because it's small and uses less plastic than the regular detergent jugs out there. They also have a 100% money back guarantee!

Fun Find- Eat, Drink and Be Yummie!

It might be last minute, but I was turned on to this clever little website, EatDrinkandBeYummie, and not only found it cute, funny and a bit edgy but loaded with useful information on holiday hostessing, food and more! It actually got me in the holiday spirit and not much does that for me these days in my sleep deprived post-baby state.

Yummie Tummie, the first shape wear brand of clothing that is sexy and actually comfortable (review coming soon!), has created a sweet little spot of a holiday site. Some of the highlights of the site include:

• Appetizers, Entrées, Desserts, and Cocktail holiday recipes that they can rate and comment on

• Users can upload their own indulgence with a picture and description

• Watch Yummie Tummie on Oprah!

Enjoy the recipes, videos and more! Cheers!