Tie One On for Dad

Now that Mother's day has passed, Father's Day is on the horizon. Have you thought about what to get the man in your life? A tie can be a fabulous gift, but can also seem so cliched. Not so, when it's a handprinted, handcrafted tie from Bird Dog Bay Neckware.

With a whimsical twist on traditional images, the playful graphics from Bird Dog Bay Neckware will liven up the office attire of your husband, boyfriend or own father. With whimsical prints like "Snow Birds", retro touches like "Ringo Star" and traditional patterns like "Honeycomb", there really is something for everyone.

These chic Bird Dog Bay Neckware ties are being seen everywhere, including Hollywood. On HBO's Entourage, the show's fashionisto, Lloyd, has been spotted sporting Bird Dog Bay Neckware ties. Keep your man looking as good as Hollywood and save 25% off with coupon code dadsday.

Win It!
We're giving away two Bird Dog Bay Neckware ties ($75 each, your choice of pattern). To enter, visit Bird Dog Bay and leave a comment telling us what print you'd like for your man. Make sure you include your email address. The deadline is Midnight, EST, June 3, 2008. Please note, all comments are moderated and may not appear immediately.

MOMS ROCK Tee Shirt Winners

We had some wonderful comments from our "MOMS ROCK" tee shirt giveaway. Moms really do rock, and the reasons you all listed are wonderful, funny and true. Here are the comments from our winners:

"Moms rock because they know their kids are the best, even when they are at their worst." Sweet Sue

"Moms ROCK because of all we get done in a day - all while keeping our sanity intact! LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this shirt - hope I win!! THANKS!!" CPA Mom

"How fun it would be to win one. Moms and other women hold this world together! Without the compassion, faith and perseverance of moms, this world would collapse! Long live Moms everywhere....." Windy Cindy

Rakkiddo Shoe Wheel Winner

Congratulations to Meka F. She is the winner of our Rakkiddo Shoe Wheel giveaway.

Prune Your Clutter

Another wonderful weekly organization tip from The Spacialist.

Pruning is one of the healthiest things you can do for a tree:

· It prevents diseased branches from further destruction.
· It supports healing when you remove a damaged limb.
· It encourages a tree to develop a strong structure and restores it's vitality.

This is exactly what happens during the "pruning" phase of organizing. Whatever you call it - editing, tossing, letting go, reducing, eliminating or pruning - you get the same benefits as the tree.

· It prevents chaos and clutter from further expansion.
· It reduces the overwhelming feelings created by excess clutter.
· It creates forward momentum by letting go of emotionally draining items.
· It stimulates creativity, energy and productivity.
· It builds an environment that supports your current lifestyle and goals.

Go get yourself a big "lawn and leaf" bag and start filling. Clutter blocks your vision the same way branches do. Just imagine how much better you'll feel by lightening up your space. Go on... prune the branches that are weighing you down and clear the path to your future!

Space-tacularly,
Erica
The Spacialist
212.924.4383

Friday Blog Roundup

On Boston Mamas: Perfect for summer travel are Mudpuppy's compact vinyl sticker play scenes and magnetic play tins, in beautifully illustrated themes for boys and girls.

On Classy Mommy: We're giving away a Playskool Rose Petal Cottage with lots of goodies included too!

On Clever Parents: Helping children with separation and divorce.

On Mom Finds: Win a Pair of Kids' Cobian Sandals. Three lucky winners will win a pair of these adorable sandals. Choose from shark, lion and zebra design.

On Moms Buzz: Travel Deals - Kids Travel Free on Norwegian Cruise Line.


On The Nest Baby: Dad's Day Gift Guide & Giveaway.

On We Covet: Pin-up girl bracelet we covet.

Car Savvy and Free Gas

With the price of gas hovering at an all-time high, it sure makes you think twice about the price of buying a new gas-guzzling vehicle. Every little bit of savings can be used to fill the tank.

Play Edmunds' Savvy Shopper Sweepstakes and you can win cash that can be used towards a down-payment on a new gas-guzzler. With a fun "guess the price" game, you can show your new car savvy and get rewarded for it, too.

If you're not familiar with Edmunds.com, it's a wonderful resource to refer to when buying a new or used vehicle. You can compare prices, get information on insurance agents and hear about current incentives and rebates. Definitely check it out if you're thinking about trading in your mini-van, or upgrading your sedan.

Exclusive for One Chic Mama Readers
Now, Edmunds.com is giving one of our readers a $10 gas card. It's not much, but as we mentioned, every little bit helps. And ten bucks just might get you out of the house for date night, or around the block for a playdate!

To enter, leave us a comment telling us what kind of vehicle you drive and what kind of gas mileage it gets. Don't forget to include your email. The deadline is Midnight, EST, June 1. Please note, all comments are moderated and may not appear immediately.

Quote For the Day

"One is not born, but rather becomes, a woman."

- Simone de Beauvoir

Moms Rock

We all know moms rock. I mean, who else can wipe noses and butts all day long and still look fabulous while coordinating afternoon activities and making dinner. The moms behind 2Funky Mums want to celebrate moms with their cute tees with the phrase "Moms Rock" on the front. Made from cotton with a touch of spandex for fit, "MOMS ROCK" is spelled out in rhinestones for all the world to see.

Win a MOMS ROCK tee for yourself. We're giving away three black MOMS ROCK tees. To be entered to win, leave us a comment with your size and tell us why you think moms rock. The deadline is May 31st. Please note all comments are moderated and will not appear immediately.

Prevent Flat-Head Syndrome

Once you bring home a newborn, there's a moment of bliss just looking at your peaceful little one. Then it all kicks in. Moms must be programmed to worry about everything, because we start worrying about whether she's warm enough, does she weigh enough, will her head stay flat...

If you're worried about your infant's head being flat, you can try the Symmetry Sleep System from Basic Comfort. This comfy sleep positioner pillow is a medically approved and patented design that helps prevent positional plagiocephaly (aka Flat-Head Syndrome). Created for use for newborns, up to anywhere from 3 - 6 months, the Symmetry Sleep System comes with a reminder system for "repositioning" baby, to help prevent the flattening of her head. Flat-Head Syndrome occurs when your baby sleeps in the same position each time they sleep, which is why a flat head is usually only on one side. Sometimes a flat head will reshape itself naturally, but sometimes it may take expensive surgery. Using a sleep positioner can help eliminate the worry about it either way.

If there's one thing moms need, it's one thing less to worry about.

Dr. Plagio's Sleep Symmetry System is available at Baby Abby or Babies R Us for $59.99.

Five Easy Steps to Basement Bliss

With summer on the horizon, cleaning and clearing out your basement may be on your list of projects. After all, once you do, the kids will have more space to play, you'll have more room to store stuff, and who knows? You just may find something you forgot you even had! With us today to offer tips on how to go about making sense of the clutter, is Erica Ecker of The Spacialist.

Erica takes us through, step by step, to give us a cleaner basement that we may very well feel blissful about.

1. Clarify your organizing goals:

· Consolidated storage? Teen lounge? Yoga space?
· Knowing what you're aiming for in the basement will help make deciding what to keep or toss easier.
· Is keeping my old lava lamp going to support my "teen lounge" goal? Yes, then keep for teen lounge.
· Separate storage space from living spaces.

2. Pace yourself with time limits:
· Thought of organizing your basement sound miserable to you? Convinced you'll have to spend 12 hours down there. We can only efficiently process for 4 hours max. Then your efficiency to time ration begins to deteriorate.
· To keep yourself from burning out, schedule 4 hour sessions, once or twice a week.

3. Supplies:
· Easy to assemble shelving on wheels like industrial Metro brand or free standing Elfa shelving units.
· Clear bins - pick a size you can manage by yourself when full. (Container Store carries a range of bins that hold 17-25 gallons.)
· Purchase a quantity of bins in advance and save the receipt.

4. Ground rules:
· Focus on how item currently fits into your life (memorabilia, infrequent use, frequent use, no use) and save reminiscing down memory lane for later. This is not the time to read every page in journal from 1987 or review every photo from 1995.
· Avoid bringing items back up into the house.
· Avoid keeping items that "could be useful someday".
· If you haven't needed it, or forgot you even had, donate it.
· If it doesn't have sentimental or useful value, free up the space for something that does.
· The basement is for the items you've consciously and deliberately chosen to save and/or store.

5. Dig in:
· Edit (according to ground rules and goals) and categorize.
· If you're not keeping it in the basement then continue to sort into: boxes for donation, trash, recycling, yard sale or e-bay.
· Have bins/bags/boxes for each category available and identified with signs.
· Create new category with sign as it arises (i.e. Jake's Hess Trucks)
· Group like with like.
· Label side of container and be specific!

Get your whole family involved, it will be more fun and go much faster! Or get the whole neighborhood involved… have all the families on your street organize their basements using the above process for 3 weekends in a row and then on the fourth weekend schedule a street wide yard-sale. Whatever doesn’t get sold can then be donated!

Go get organized,
Erica
The Spacialist
New York Magazine's
2008 choice for BEST SPACE ORGANIZER!
212.924.4383

Hot Summer Handbags (psst...they're a bargain!)

As summer draws near, school gets out and we begin to make our vacation plans, a new handbag might be on your list. Yet, with gas prices through the roof, there may not be room in the budget for the hot designer bag you've been lusting after. But don't worry, you can still treat yourself to a hot handbag and have money left over! Take a peek at these chic, functional and inexpensive handbags, all made by Rosetti.

This classic Straw Satchel has a magnetic snap and faux croco trim, along with metal feet so it stands on its own. On sale for just $19.99, this bag is basic enough to go with your sundresses and your shorts, and big enough to carry the essentials.

Add a bold pop of color with this striped
Straw Bucket Bag. It closes with a flap adorned with a tassel, and will take you through the summer in style.

If a casual zip-top bag is what you need, then this Summer Straw Tote will stash your goods and keep them safe. The perfect bag for summer outings, be it a trip to the zoo or an afternoon of shopping, this neutral straw handbag has gold accents and metal feet on the bottom.


This roomy Straw Shopper features handles connected with brushed brass hardware and includes a removable beaded key fob. Perfect for trips to the farmers' market.

Another classic style, this Straw Bucket Bag with Flap is a bit more sophisticated and will go with just about everything. Featuring a flap with magnetic closure adored with a tassel, faux croco trim and metal feet on the bottom. And with a price tag of $19.99, you'll get a lot more mileage out of this than you will $20 worth of gas!

Like Speed Dating for Sitters

Ever have a hard time finding a good sitter? I know some moms who stoop to eavesdropping on the coversation of an unsuspecting twenty-something at the coffee shop to see if she might possibly babysit. Then out of desperation, they'll snatch her up, asking if she's free on Saturday night. Not quite the best way to meet a reliable, capable and dependable person who's going to be in charge of your precious little ones, is it? Yet finding good childcare isn't always easy.

Good thing there's Mommy Mixer, a service that puts parents and sitters in contact with each other through a fun, relaxed "mixer" atmosphere. A Mommy Mixer is an hour-long event that puts moms in contact with qualified college students who want to sit occasionally. They each get to personally interview one another, and moms leave with a list of sitters to call for their next date night. Mommy Mixers are held in cities around the country to offer moms a great opportunity to meet several qualified sitters at once.

Beats hanging around the coffee shop. And who knows - you just might find the sitter of your dreams!

A Pram for All Seasons

With today's mamas wanting all the high-tech their strollers can deliver, it's nice to see there are prams available that harken back to days of yore. Prams are a reminder to stop and smell the flowers, and enjoy a nice stroll with your newborn baby. The Classica Collection from Inglesina sure makes me want to spend the afternoon with my little one, taking in beautiful gardens and sitting al fresco, sipping a latte.

Handcrafted by artisans in Italy, the Classica Collection is nothing short of luxurious sophistication. The handle is made from leather, the wooden bassinet is handcrafted and adorned with intricate lace privacy curtains. The epitome of whimsical elegance, all Classica Collection prams are available in four colors and come with matching diaper bags. There is also an optional stroller seat and hood for your child once he is sitting upright, so the pram can take you right through to toddlerhood. Because nothing but the best is good enough for your little sprout.

Roomba 560 Giveaway Winner

Ok, I know this is one you all want to hear about. Tiffany H. from Florida is the winner of the Roomba 560, out of almost a thousand entries! Whoo-hoo! Go, Tiffany. I wish I could give everyone who entered a Roomba, as it sounds like so many of you would really benefit from having one.

Enjoy, Tiffany! And congratulations!

Nanette Lepore for Keds

Want to brighten up your look with a fun shoe for summer? Take a peek at the new collaboration from Nanette Lepore and Keds.

Their Lace Wedge ($100) takes your style to new heights. These would be perfect paired with a sundress in a neutral shade (try white, chambray or khaki). Add a cardigan or accessory to pull out the brights and you've got a bold and feminine look Nanette herself would be proud of.



This fun Wedge Sneaker($120) features a mesh & leather upper, and would be perfect to pair with a denim skirt and crisp white top. The mesh allows your feet to breathe, so you'll keep your cool even in the most tropical of temperatures, while keeping your feet covered. Try these next time you're exploring through the rainforest or the jungle.





If flats are more your style, try this Low Rose Skimmer Flat ($70). Available in several different color combinations, your look will be anything but boring. Try these with cute pair of shorts and a feminine top.

Keds continually evolves to offer fabulous, updated styles. Take a peek - you'll be pleasantly surprised at what you find.

Hooray, Chambray!

Summer is just days away, and one of the season's hottest fabrications is making itself visible in all kinds of shapes. Chambray, that classic, lightweight woven fabric with a dark warp and a light weft, is perfect for our temperate days. A wonderful stand-in for denim when the temperatures shoot up, chambray has a timeless appeal that works in everything from shorts to sundresses, and is perfect for men, women and children.

Some days are just made for shorts, and these Chambray Cargo Shorts from Gap ($44.50) are perfect for dressing up for a lunch date, or taking the kids to the zoo. Try a pair of flat gladiator sandals and a cropped jacket over a tank for a sophisticated look. For more casual days, slip on a tee in a bold shade and a pair of flats or wedge sandals. With longer shorts, remember to keep proportion in mind. This length is great for those with long limbs. If you're legs are not quite so nimble, opt for a shorter pair of shorts to help add length, and go for shoes with some lift.

This lovely Marciano Chambray Dress ($148) is a lightweight and pretty take on the cool summer sundress. Dress it up with a short, red trench coat for chilly evenings to give it a nautical flair. For a more sophisticated look, pair chambray with a black cardigan and strappy sandals and you'll have a chic combination perfect for a date night during your beach trip (if you're so lucky) and a walk on the beach under the moonlight (sans shoes).

A good top can take you far, and this pretty Chambray Pintuck Top from Boden ($58) will look great with everything from this season's white denim or a pretty skirt in a bold hue. Try a grass green skirt for a fun combination. Top it off with a pretty bangle and some wedges (see Bliss Canvas Hi-Wedge from keds.

When looking for key items for your summer wardrobe, think chambray. It's a versatile classic that will offer some wonderful wardrobe options whether on vacation or just relaxing at home with the kids.

Shoe-Go-Round

By now, you've heard about the Shoe Wheel, that clever storage solution for shoes that had everybody from Guy Kawasaki to the Budget Fashionista talking. Well, now moms can jump for joy because Rakku has just introduced a shoe wheel for the kiddos! Called the Rakkiddo, my guess is this is going to revolutionize the way shoes are put away in about a minute flat. (Am I wrong?)

Designed with the same unique construction as the Shoe Wheel, the Rakkiddo holds up to 20 pairs of kids shoes. Easy to slip shoes in and out of, the shoes are held in place with elastic bands. No more running late because one shoe has gone missing!

Exclusive for One Chic Mama Readers
Win a white Rakkiddo ($49.99) to help keep your kids' shoes organized. Simply leave us a comment(include your email address) about the Rakkiddo before Midnight, EST, May 23rd. Please note, all comments are moderated and may not appear immediately.

A Multitasking Stroller for Modern Mamas

Having a baby means having a stroller. Choosing a stroller that is multi-functional and can grow with your child is important. It also helps if its looks are appealing to a modern mama. The Mutsy 4Rider Light is a versatile stroller with a modern appeal that will take your newborn into childhood with ease.

The 4Rider Light has an optional Carry Cot attachment ($200) that can be used with your newborn, both in the stroller and as a portable bassinet. A carseat attachment ($25) is also available for easy mobility. The detachable reclining seat can be converted to a bouncy chair with the addition of “the babysitter” chassis ($39), and then simply snapped into the stroller once your child is ready to ride sitting upright.

With a fully reclining seat for comfort, and larger-than-normal wheels for easy maneuverability and a smooth ride, the Mutsy 4Rider Light is perfect for taking power walks with your child, and works just as well for shopping trips to the local mall. Plus, it's the perfect accessory for a chic and modern mama. The Mutsy 4Rider Light is available for $499 (and ships free) from Bare Babies.

Winner of Stewart + Brown $100 Gift Card

The winner of our Stewart + Brown $100 gift certificate giveaway is Melanie M. Congratulations, Melanie! I know you'll have fun using this.

Help for Sun Damaged Skin

After spending my entire childhood playing tennis and swimming sans sunblock, my face has its share of pigment damage but worse, I’ve gotten several skin cancers. I’ve been employing many methods to make the five scars on my face less noticeable and was eager to try Photolagen-AGF ($89) manufactured by AminoGenesis Skin Care Products. The serum has a light, fruity scent due to the amino acids it contains and is designed to be used after washing your face but prior to the application of moisturizer. It glides on the face nicely and is quick to dry without any residue. It also passes the “first, do no harm” test—it hasn’t made my face break out or dry out.

The manufacturer says in clinical trials it reduced fine lines and wrinkles by 68% and furrow density by 46%. The patented product also is designed to “reverse damage caused by sun and natural aging, diminish appearance of age spots, reduce the appearance of dark circles, and improve skin firmness, texture and feel.” After three weeks use of this patented product, I’ve noticed a small but welcome improvement in my scars. Those lines appear smoother, less prominent. I have a slight tendency toward dark circles and those also appear diminished. My skin feels firmer too but I haven’t noticed any change to the pigment damage I’m hoping to correct. Overall, though, I’m pleased with the results and I’m happy to incorporate Photolagen-AGF into my daily regimen.

P.S. A note to the AminoGenesis marketing team: While the product name, Photolagen-AGF, kind of sounds like a Star Trek device, it doesn’t completely scare me off. However, the packaging looks to me like something you’d see on the shelf at the auto parts store. Something about the bronze and black lettering makes the product look industrial and made me think twice before I put in on my face. However, after Googling the product and studying the Aminogenesis website, I was assured enough that it was safe to use.

Photolagen-AGF was reviewed by Ellen Willson Hoover.

Bamboo Fun and Games

Our family adores games. We try to make time for games with our 5 year old after dinner, and a new game around the house makes for much excitement. Rapelli was no exception. A fun-filled game for kids 4 an up, Rapelli is a winner!.

What I love about Rapelli most is the fact that it's made from bamboo, a sustainably harvested material. But the game is loads of fun to play with kids. The object of the game is to get as many caterpillars out of the tree as you can, before your opponent's eat their way into the tree. My daughter grasped this quickly, and it worked to teach her a bit of strategy.

What we didn't expect from Rapelli is how much my toddler son would love it! Too young to play with the dice, we put those away and let him have fun putting the caterpillars in the tree and taking them out (works his pincer grasp). He loves doing this, and asks for Rapelli often by standing near the shelf where it sits and holding his arms outstretched. I know once he's old enough, he'll enjoy actually playing it by the rules!

Fun for the entire family, this would be a great game to take for a weekend away at the beach or the mountains (or lake house, log cabin...). Although it's a fun game to play, it can take some time. So it's best when you can just relax and enjoy it.

We reviewed Rapelli for the Parent Bloggers Network.

Weekly Blog Roundup

On Modern Mom: Win a Celebrity BUMP Bag valued at over $3600.

On the Nest Baby:Vote for your favorite bump! Help us pick the winning belly photo in our bump contest. Winner gets a babymoon in Jamaica!

On Moms Buzz: Win $100 Toys R Us Gift Card and FREE VEGGIETALES® DVDs.

On Mommies With Style: Buy a little something for yourself with this versatile Mom product that tucks away into your diaper bag. Save 20% off Chilly Jilly's "wrap in a bag".

On Mom Finds: Crazy for Crocs. Light as a feather and easy to wear—check out the latest crop of Crocs for kids.

On Boston Mamas: Before baking becomes seasonally obsolete, try this fabulous thumbprint cookie project with your kids.

Word of Mom

As moms, we know what we like, and know what we want. Like a multi-functional diaper bag that looks great, organic baby food that's just like what we'd make at home, or a sturdy stroller that swivels on a dime and allows us to sip our latte at the same time.

Now we can share our current obsessions with other moms through Cookie Magazine's Word of Mom. We moms now have a place to tell the world about our favorite brand of diaper rash ointment, what eye cream is worth its salt and what gets us out the door in a flash. Your tips may find themselves posted at CookieMag.com, or in a future issue of Cookie. And who knows? You just might win the Word of Mom Readers' Choice Award. So go ahead, submit your current obsessions, and read what other moms recommend. Because as we all know, mom knows best.

Mama Style

A few weeks ago we posted on the book, Style Statement, from Carrie McCarthy and Danielle LaPorte, and their philosophy on personal style statements - two words that can help define your life and how you live it. Today, we bring you a few words of wisdom from Carrie and Danielle, geared just for moms.

Here's what Carrie and Danielle had to say:

Q. What can you suggest to moms to help them stay in touch with their sense of style (as well as self) as they navigate the path through motherhood?

A. Ah yes...how to successfully get out of the house for a special event without spit up or boogers on your outfit; navigating the boredom of vacuuming Cheerios with the deep delight of being in the light of your child's love; and piecing together the puzzle of your total devotion to your kid's unfolding, with your very own need to grow, flourish, and be freely self expressed.

CREATE YOUR STYLE STATEMENT: Two words to live by
Well, it does help to have a STYLE STATEMENT -- the two word compass that defines your authentic self. The book is an inquiry into your true desires, successes and inspirations. Some of the questions are playful (What's your dream home? What would you wear to the Oscars?), and some questions you may have never asked yourself (What's your genius? What do you crave? When do you shine?) After the babes are in bed, curl up with a copy or make it a Monday night girl group ritual -- no kids allowed.

CREATE A STYLE FILE: What inspires you?
Begin to collect visuals of things that inspire you. Make a scrapbook, put together a collage, or store them in a shoe box. Magazines are fantastic sources of inspiration. Liberally tear out images of designs, colors, graphics, scenes, and looks that you are drawn to. Add fabric swatches, poems, postcards. And as you're collecting your ideals, know that the process helps to draw your fulfilled wishes to you. Or, start a really easy file-folder system. Label each file with the name of an area in the Life Style Map (e.g., Fashion, Home, Relationships) and file images and text that resonate with you in the appropriate folder.

CREATE YOUR WEEK: 3 Simple Things
Every weekend, write down three simple things you will do to energize your Style Statement in the coming week.
1. Edit. Let go of one thing—material objects, thoughts, or activities. It might be an old sweater, a pile of paper, a negative self-perception, or a small but nasty habit such as staying up too late or not recycling.
2. Add. Bring in or reinvent one thing in your life—thoughts, activities, creations, objects.
3. Appreciate. More fully appreciate someone or something. Send a thank-you note to your partner, just for being your partner. Be extra polite to the guy who makes you latte. Get that old painting re-framed and hung, or finally take those pants to the tailor. Spend some time admiring how beautiful your eyes are.

Whether we're stay-at-home mamas or CEOs, we're all works in progress. Authenticity takes courage and commitment, much like motherhood. And creating a life that looks and feels like the true you, alongside the demands of everyday-ness, is simply, (and profoundly) the result of making choices that feel good, choices that make you shine. And by the light of your realness, every one around you grows.

Shine on,
Carrie & Danielle

Thank you, Carrie and Danielle, for your lovely insight and suggestions!

Homespun Goodness from Matilda Jane

When women are inspired, wonderful things happen. Like Matilda Jane Clothing. Created by a self-taught clever mom, Matilda Jane Clothing grew from her inspiration.


Driven to create whatever her brain can dream up, some of the most amazing ideas were made into reality. And our kiddos get to wear these inspired creations. Matilda Jane Clothing is available through trunk shows and art shows, or you can just call 'em up and tell 'em what you want. They'll listen, and make recommendations.



But do call, because you're going to want your kiddos dressed in homespun goodness this summer. Evoking the spirit of the old West, with a touch of modern sensibility, Matilda Jane Clothing for girls, boys and moms will take you back to a place and time life was simple. Like sitting on the porch swing with a nice, cold popsicle and not a care in the world.

A Warm Welcome to Kirtsy

Ok, mamas, most of you have heard about Sk-rt, that fabulous social media site where you can post and read stories about everything from great beauty products to and 'Indiana Jones’ movie inspired by real-life skull worship. Really. It runs the gamut from the fun to the fascinating, with everything in between. And now, they have a new name. Kirtsy is what Sk-rt was. So bookmark Kirtsy and and head on over to submit your favorite story, or read about Big Crumb Cake of your dreams, as selected by guest editor, Ree of the Pioneer Woman.

Va-Va-Va-Roomba

This month, in honor of Mother's Day, we want to offer moms a break from cleaning. No, we're not sending a team of hunky men out to vacuum your floor and scrub your toilets (don't we wish!). But we are giving you a chance to win a Roomba 560 from iRobot, that clever creation that does the work so you don't have to.

If you don't know about it by now, the Roomba 560, is an innovative take on the vacuum. What's nice about it is that you just turn it on and let it go. Turn it loose and it cleans your entire floor, as well as under and around furniture. It'll automatically adjust from carpet to hardwoods and back again, and can detect where there's more dirt. With a sensor that helps it avoid stairs and drop-offs, you don't have to worry about it taking a spill.

To use the Roomba 560, you simply press the "clean" button and let it go (oh, if only the rest of the housework were that simple). It'll go from room to room, while making a quiet hum (some moms I know use it as "white noise" to help their babies sleep), and then return itself to its docking station when complete. With anti-tangle technology to keep it from getting caught in cords, carpet or other dangling items, and a "virtual walls" setting to give it parameters, the Roomba 560, is a nice little helping hand.

If a little help around the house is what you need, try a Roomba 560. It'll help keep your floors clean (even with messy kids and pets around) while you relax, or, more likely, take care of the rest of the housework.

Exclusive for One Chic Mama Readers
If you'd like to be entered to win a Roomba 560 ($349.99 value), just leave us a comment and tell us how a Roomba 560 would make a difference in your life. Please note, all comments are moderated and may not appear immediately. The deadline is Midnight EST, May 17.

Lavender Dreamtime

The lavender lab from Cloud b ($21) is one of the most adorable plush pets we've seen in a while. Filled with lavender, simply squeeze it and place it on your child's pillow during the day. At night, the delicate scent of lavender will help them have sweet dreams while they snuggle up with their favorite friend.

When we first received our lavender lab, my daughter, Ivy, took him as her very own pet. He sits proudly on her bed and "guards" it during the daytime. At night, she likes to snuggle up with "Labbie", her bedtime companion. But just recently, my son Dylan (18 mos) has taken over as Labbie's owner. He's had the most fun snuggling with this lovable, plush puppy, and my daughter and I have enjoyed watching him.

The lavender lab is a wonderful toy and sleep-aid all in one. It's a fun way to encourage a good night's sleep while giving your child the comfort of snuggling up with a puppy. Let aromatherapy encourage your children to get a great night's sleep.

Some Green to Go Green

Organic pioneers. Sounds pretty inspiring, right? But just wait until you see the offerings of the pioneering duo of Stewart + Brown. You'll see for yourself just how inspiring going green can be.

Stewart + Brown designs some of the most lovely clothing around. The fact that it's eco-friendly almost makes it too good to be true. But relax and bask in the fact that their luxurious, premium cashmere is made from humanely raised Mongolian cashmere goats that provides income to nomadic herders. And their cotton is organic, free from pesticides that damage our eco-system. As parents themselves, Stewart + Brown have a desire to create a better world for their daughter, Hazel, as well as to bring us lovely designs made in the finest earth-friendly fabrics around. Going green has never looked so good!

If you're not familiar with Stewart + Brown, here's your chance to find out firsthand about their lovely selection of tees, dresses, tops, pants, skirts and more. We're giving one winner a $100 gift certificate to use on any items from the Stewart + Brown website. To enter, leave us a comment with your email address and tell us what you like most from Stewart + Brown. The deadline to enter is Midnight, EST, May 16th. Please note, all comments are moderated and may not appear immediately.

Happy Mother's Day!

A Mother's Love
Your arms were always open when I needed a hug. Your heart understood when I needed a friend. Your gentle eyes were stern when I needed a lesson. Your strength and love has guided me and gave me wings to fly.

- Sarah Malin

I want to wish all you wonderful mothers out there an amazing Mother's Day! I hope you realize how important you are in your children's lives. Motherhood may seem like a thankless job some days, but the impact we are having on our kids is unfathomable. These tiny little beings thrive on our love an attention more than we can ever know. Great big hugs and lots of kisses to all of you for the wonderfully challenging and rewarding role you have taken on in your lives. It may not all be fun and games, but motherhood is an experience I sure wouldn't trade for anything. Through the spit up, the tears, the whining and the tantrums, I see a glimmer of the future and all it holds for my children, and it warms my heart to watch them go from infant to child - although it happens way too fast for my liking!

I hope you are all treated like queens today!

Giveaway Winners

Shilo is the winner of our lovely Jojo laptop bag giveaway. If you're in need of a gorgeous and functional laptop bag, Careerbags is the place to go!

Rachel is the winner of our Baby Emi Jewelry giveaway. She has won a set of Cambodian Jingle Bells for both herself and her daughter. If you'd like to have some of these lovely, handcrafted creations for yourself, remember that you can save 10% on your next purchase with code "OCM10"

Keep an eye out for more fab giveaways going on all month!

Weekly Blog Roundup

Here's what's happening this week around the mom blogs...
On Boston Mamas: Win a Britax Convertible Car Seat!

On Classy Mommy: Win $100 Gift Card to Toys R Us.

On Clever Parents: Operation Shower Mother’s Day Celebration Kicks Off.

On Mom Finds: Win a Giant Gift Basket from Neat Solutions.

On Modern Mom: Are Suri's drinking habits becoming Bottle-Gate?

On the Nest: Book Club -- Porn for New Moms.

Cozy Toes

As mamas who enjoy wrapping ourselves in luxurious comfort, you just very well may have a pair (or two) of KN Karen Neuburger chenille lounge socks tucked away in your drawer. Now you can share that cozy comfort with your little ones. KN Karen Neuburger has added Infant Chenille Lounge Socks to their offerings and they're the perfect introduction to livable luxury for any tiny tot.

Sold in packs of two ($16), these socks are durable and versatile in a polyester/spandex blend that’s completely machine washable. Made to fit infants up to 9 months (for pre-walkers only - the chenille would be too slippery for new walkers), these lovely lounge socks come in either a pearl/pink or a pearl/blue color combination to guarantee snuggly little toes.

Exclusive for One Chic Mama Readers
Five lucky winners will receive a pack of two pairs of Infant Chenille Lounge Socks. To enter, just visit KN Karen Neuburger and leave a comment telling us what other items you'd love to have for your little ones. Hint: you're gonna love the "If You Give A Mouse A Cookie" pajamas! Oh, and don't forget to leave your email address. All comments are moderated and may not appear immediately. The deadline is May 13.

Just Say No (thank you)

When a mama's feeling not so up-to-date on her makeup, it can be a nice little pick-me-up to sit down at a makeup counter and have a professional make you look fabulous and oh so au courant. Yet when once she's given you a make-up induced glow, you know she's going to give you the hard sell. How do you bow out gracefully and still walk away with dignity? Total Beauty has some great suggestions for dealing with those awkward moments.

Scene: You've just received a free half-hour makeover and mini-massage at a department store counter. The make-up artist looks you square in your newly smoky eye and asks, "So, which of these fabulous products would you like to take home today?"

Fact: This is a classic counter tactic. Makeup artists don't spend 30 minutes giving you tips, tricks and samples purely out of the goodness of their beautifying hearts. They work on commission. Although you're not obligated to buy anything, it is sort of expected. If you receive a free service that takes up more than 10 minutes of his or her time, be prepared to fork over approximately $1/minute for a product. Or don't accept the "free" service at all, because the hard sell is part of that freebie. Either purchase the cheapest product, or pick out an item you know you love.

If you blaze without buying, a makeup artist is left with one of two conclusions: She did a terrible job or you're a sample grifter. So, confess if you have no intention of buying a product -- if you simply want to test the brand or need a free glam makeover before a big night out. As awkward as it might sound, total honesty up front helps you avoid the truly awkward moment of walking away without spending a dime. This way, the makeup artist knows to hook you up, but still keep an eye out for potential customers. "You'll get the service because you might turn into a regular buyer, but she won't feel bad about stepping away to help other people," says Bobbi Brown makeup artist Mark Hopkins.

How to escape gracefully: Depending on how you feel about the makeover or service, there are tactful ways to say, 'Thanks…but no thanks.'
· "I'd like to see how it wears before I commit to buying more."
· "I have sensitive skin, so I need to make sure I don't react to any of the products."
· "I don't want to buy everything at once, but if you write down the products, I'll be sure to mention your name when I come back to buy them so you get the commission."
· "I want to use up the products I have at home before I start a whole new regimen."

So next time you have the opportunity to have a visiting make-up artist give you a new look, don't shy away. Take advantage of the rare chance, but be ready to say "NO" if you're not ready to plunk down a bundle on new products. Select only what you really want, and be confident in your decision. You'll feel better about yourself, and will avoid spending money on products you didn't really want.

Article from TotalBeauty.com.
Photo courtesy of Carmindy.com.

You're Jingling, Baby

From as young as they can remember, daughters want to be like their mamas. So when they get the opportunity to wear something that's just like mama's, it can be pretty special. When my daughter and I received our lovely Sterling Silver Jingle Bells Set from Baby Emi Jewelry, she wanted us both to put on our matching Cambodian Jingle Bells anklets immediately. As we went through our afternoon, dancing and playing around the house, the bells were an audible reminder that we matched, and that was a perfect opportunity for some mother/daughter bonding.

Designed by mom, Debbie Savage, Baby Emi Jewelry is created for moms and daughters with an eye for style. When her daughter received a set of Cambodian jingle bells as a baby blessing gift, she knew she had found a glamorous and fun way to pass along the beauty of her heritage. Debbie uses only the finest sterling silver, copper, 14K gold filled beads, fine Swarovski crystals, rich colored stones, and high-quality charms and findings for her unique creations. Wanting to design luxurious and fashionable pieces that add a little bit of glamour to everyday for girls and their mothers, she makes durable and lovely jewelry for girls from 0 - 100.

Traditionally, it is believed that whimsical anklets and bracelets, such as those filled with jingle bells from Cambodia, ward off bad spirits with their soft jingling sounds. They also help you keep track of each other as you move about the house, or when you're in public.

Now you can treat yourself and your daughter and save 10% on your next Baby Emi purchase with code "OCM10".

Exclusive for One Chic Mama Readers

Win a Sterling Silver Jingle Bells Set for you and your daughter (or granddaughter) ($75 value). Simply visit the Baby Emi website and leave a comment telling us what your favorite designs are. They have so many styles to choose from, you may have a hard time picking just one! Deadline is Midnight EST, May 9. Please note, all comments are moderated and may not appear immediately.

Rookie Mom? Here's Help!

Those months leading up to having a baby can be glorious. Sure, your body's changing into something you no longer recognize, you have some physical aches and pains, and begin waking frequently at night. But having everyone doting on you, going shopping for the baby and having lunch with your girlfriends is just a fabulous high. Plus, you've got parties to go to, showers hosted in your honor - and you're simply glowing, so you look fabulous. Being prego is fun!

Yet after the social whirlwind that can accompany pregnancy, having a new baby can feel very isolating. Once you come home from the hospital, friends and family drop by to help out, but it seems you're at home for l-o-o-o-n-g stretches of time with just your new little bundle. What's a new mom to do?

The Rookie Mom's Handbook: 250 Activities to Do with (and Without!) Your Baby has some great ideas. The authors, Heather Gibbs Flett and Whitney Moss, are moms themselves and have been there. They know firsthand what it's going to take to help you feel confident to get out of the house with baby and enjoy some of the activities you once enjoyed before motherhood. They offer moms encouragement to take some "ME" time - something that doesn't come naturally (or easily) for new moms. Knowing the physical and mental drain that comes with being responsible for another human being, Heather and Whitney offer some realistic suggestions to get you out of the house and reconnecting with your former self in no time. After all, you're not just a mom - you're a person, too!

The Rookie Mom's Handbook was written to inspire new moms, and to help them stay sane as they navigate the world of motherhood. Whitney and Heather want to see new moms reconnect with friends, their husbands and themselves, and being their best selves. It helps make that first year of motherhood a little less daunting. I highly recommend The Rookie Mom's Handbook to any new moms, and it makes a perfect shower gift for your expectant friends (whether first time moms or not).

Check out more suggestions on their site, Rookie Moms. Whether you're a new mom, or a seasoned one, you'll enjoy their writing and may find some ideas to inspire you, whatever stage you're in!

We reviewed Rookie Moms for Parent Bloggers Network.