This week has been both exciting and tumultuous for my family. I’m coming down from the high of becoming a grandmother for the second time. It’s both exhilarating and exhausting.

In between all the excitement and responsibilities (i.e., being on red-alert for babysitting ‘Lil Moomette whilst her parents were at the hospital), I’ve had to remember to re-charge the battery on my Canon Powershot camera.

My poor cameras take such a beating. This is actually my second Canon. Last October, my first camera went swimming in the pool at a wedding. I was having my photo taken poolside, and one of the ushers tackled my sidekick, and the camera I was holding did a slow-mo into the pool. Luckily, all the photos on the memory card survived, as I removed it quickly, but the camera was toast.

It’s time to replace once again the one I’m now using. Being a Power Seller, you wouldn’t believe some of the motions I have to go through to try to capture just the right angle on some pictures for my listings. This camera took a dive off a step stool so I’ll be placing an order soon for a new one!

I’ll be needing it to capture all those priceless moments of Moomette’s upcoming second birthday!

My daughters are grown, but as a Mom, I’m still always ‘on-call.’ That’s just the way it is, and actually, I’m thankful that I have such a good relationship with my daughters.

Starting today, and probably through next Friday, I’m going to be on ‘red-alert standby’ to take care of ‘Lil Moomette, as my daughter is due to deliver my grandson any day!

Every Grandma needs a goody bag to keep the kiddos occupied when going out to eat. (I like to go out to eat whenever I can!)

I have a Sister-In-Law who always has the most spectacular goody bags at-the ready for the grandchildren. You wouldn’t believe what was in them to keep 5 grandkiddos occupied at a golf tournament! But the irony of it all was that my Sister-In-Law was never blessed with children of her own, and rather that the little darlings are my late Brother-in-Law’s grandchildren!

Thus, I’m delighted to have the opportunity to review the Doodlebugz Crayon Pink Stripe Purse from the Doodlebugz Crayola Collection from Princess Linens!

Doodlebugz™ Crayola Crayon Purse-Pink Stripe

The Doodlebugz Crayon Purse is designed for children ages 3 and Up. The product that I received to review comes complete with a pad of paper, perfectly sized for small hands, and 10 Crayola washable crayons, and 16 outside crayon pocket-holder.

Made from a durable canvas-type fabric, this colorful handbag-style carrier is sure to be a hit with all the little Princesses! Don’t they all like to carry a purse, just like Mommy?

Every little girl likes to see her name in print, and personalization is available.

Safety information on the plastic tube container that the purse comes in, indicates that the crayons are Non-Toxic and meet all ACMI Performance Standards.

Other products offered from the Doddlebugz Crayloa collection include Crayon Aprons & Toolbelts, Chalk Talk Table Mates & Doodlebags.

The second product that I am delighted to review from Princess Linens are the My First Scrubs!

Now if these aren’t the cutest must-have’s I’ve seen lately! I’m having so much fun discovering how little ones are becoming Fashionistas at such a young age!

Although my grandson is due any day now, I can just imagine how adorable these would be when he is toddling around! My First Scrubs are perfect for the doctor or nurse-to-be, and are so authentic! Made with 100% cotton, they have faux drawstring pants for authenticity, and are perfect for the new baby or older sibling. I was thinking they’d be a great idea to use as jammies, but are not marked ‘flame resistant,’ according to U.S. Standards, and are manufactured in China. In any event, they look super-comfy for casual playgroup wear, or just relaxing around the house. Dress them up with accessories ~ and you’d have a super easy Halloween Costume!

Available in sizes up to 4T in three colors:

Lab Green, “No More Blues” Blue, and Candystriper Pink. Lab Green scrubs are available in larger sizes up to size 8! Currently larger sizes are only available in Lab Green.

Princess Linens Fine Hand~Made Baby Gifts also offers Personalized shortalls and baby boy clothing. Princess Linens also offers luxury baby clothes, big brother gifts, big sister gifts, personalized bibs and personalized burp pads. I fell in love with the shortalls and rompers from The Hamptons Collection, personalized with the name “Ethan.” ~ I think that’s what my new grandson will be named! Made of 100% cotton pique.

Princess Linens would like to offer readers of Moomettesgram’s Musings a coupon code (MOOMETTE) to receive a 15% Discount off of any purchases. Visit them at http://princesslinens.com

Wholesale orders also available.

VOTE FOR ME ~ KEEP ME ON TOP ~ I’M A TOP MOMMA ~

Click the Button to Keep Me On Top!

Since it’s the Lazy, Crazy, Hazy Days of Summer, I’ve decided to shake it up a little, and hold a Contest Giveway!

I sell quite a bit of Girls and Boys Boutique clothing items in my eBay Store where I’m a Power Seller, and at Moomette’s Magnificents Olde Town Shoppes, where I offer boutique, hand crafted items.

This adorable outfit is from Hartstrings, and is New, With Tags.  Still plenty of time to wear this pretty little ditty through early Fall ~ and it’s great for photo portraits, too!  Perhaps you have someone special’s  Birthday coming up, or want to tuck it away and get a head-start on your Holiday Shopping, or even save it for next summer!

Boutique

HARTSTRINGS

BABY PREP NAUTICAL SAILOR KNIT DRESS

I am so pleased to have the opportunity to review a delightful product from Baby Go Green!

Baby Go Green features Natural Parenting Products, Made Easy and Affordable!

Lori, a busy WAHM of 3 girls, is the site’s owner and has been in business since late 2007.  Lori was kind enough to send me a Hand-Crafted Fuzzy Farm Animal Puzzle to review.

My oldest DD is expecting her second child very shortly, and I’ve been assigned the task of picking up ‘Lil Moomette from daycare and bringing her to my house until Charming Son-In-Law picks her up after work.  Therefore, I’m always eager to try and keep new toys on hand to keep the little darling toddler occupied until the magic hour arrives.

I surprised ‘Lil Moomette, my 20-month old granddaughter when I picked her up from day care, and we experimented with the puzzle together.  This is a terrific first wooden puzzle that encourages creative play.  The puzzle pieces are just the right size for little toddler hands to grasp and have matching pictures underneath.

Each barnyard animal is covered in soft felt so as to stimulate the sense of touch, feel & imagination in your child.

The puzzle itself measures 0.51″ x 9″ x 12″ assembled.  The animals include a cow, duck, lamb and pig.

What I liked about this toy is that it helped ‘Lil Moomette to identify her colors, facial features (ears, eyes, nose, mouth) as well as feet and tail!  Moomette was able to practice learning to identify a fence, water (swim swim), butterfly, flowers & more.  The puzzle packed quite a bit of creativity into one activity toy!

When the pieces are removed, there are facsimiles underneath to help your child put the pieces back in the proper place.

The wooden puzzle is hand-crafted, and all the edges were very smooth, with no rough edges for little fingers.  No worries there!

Recommended Ages: 1+ year(s)

Baby Go Green also features Cloth Diapers and Diaper Covers, Blankets, Bedding, Accessories & Gifts for Mama and Baby.

For more delightful offerings, please visit Baby Go Green! Lori is kind enough to offer my readers Free Shipping! Use Code FREESHIP50

“Toot Your Own Horn”

What does that mean? Well, it means every Tuesday, we get to post a Meme of an accomplishment that we have done. As Moms sometimes, we are quick in praising our kids and others about their accomplishments but we are “shy” when it comes to our achievements so … here’s our chance.

As a WAHM eBiz owner and eBay Power Seller, I’m always on the lookout for new ways to promote my businesses.

Since I’ve started blogging, I’ve met many wonderful new people and been exposed to some new avenues for ideas.

Recently I joined the Mom Bloggers Club. If you’re thinking about starting a blog, Mom Bloggers offers Mom Blogging 101 to show you how! You can also set up your own Home Page, stop by other blogger’s pages and add them as friends. There’s also specific interest groups you can join, or even find a new hobby or interest! There’s groups for bloggers who Twitter, are Virtual Assistants, have websites, are Christian Mom Bloggers, Word Press and Blogger Tech Support Groups, and more!

Stop by and add me as a friend!

Looking for something interesting to do with the children or visiting guests this summer?

With the cost of gas continually rising every day in today’s economy, many families are watching their finances and looking to cut corners and save money. By doing some Day Tripping with the kiddos or grandchildren, there are still many ways to have quality family-time together, while soaking up a little culture or entertainment in the process!

Check out this easy money saving tip on how to day trip and vacation close to home!

Happy Trails to You!

As Moomettesgram, I’m a Baby Boomer and thrifty Gram from New England ~ I’ve been ‘Around The Block‘ awhile and am familiar with many products, both household and child related.

I’ve seen what were the “hottest trendy household and baby products” when my daughters were little in the ’80s, and I know what the “hottest trendy household and baby products” are now that I have my own grandchildren.

My Baby Boomer status qualifies me to have an opinion on just about everything ~ which I’m more than willing to share!

Product Reviews

If you are an indie designer or crafter, feel you have a Family-Friendly, product that will be of interest to Moms or Babies and Toddlers (girls and boys) or are a PR rep for a company, PLEASE contact me and I will be more than willing to give you an honest review.

As I’m a big supporter of Work-At-Home Moms ~ whether you sell on Etsy or have a boutique store, here’s a great way to gain exposure and get the word out for your WAHM unique hand-crafted items and online website.  Eco-Friendly, non-toxic items are also encouraged!

I am unable to review items based strictly on photos, brochures, or a website, and must actually have a physical product to use before an honest review can be made. Therefore, a sample (non-returnable) must be sent, along with permission to use a photo for the review.    I will write the review in exchange for the item. Item will be mine to keep after the review is written.  I will provide a link to the product’s homepage within the review.  All reviews are permanently accessible in the archives and are searchable by category.

You are encouraged to offer promotional discounts to my readers.

Giveaways and Contests

In addition to the review, I am able to give the option of offering a like item for a Giveaway Contest . I am able to conduct the giveaway on my Blog, along with all details of the giveaway.  I will also submit the contest to various Contest/Giveaway sites for increased exposure.  You, the Seller/Store Owner, will be responsible for sending the prize, at your expense, to the winner of the contest.

Complimentary Bonus Perks of Product Reviews by Moomettesgram

As an extra perk, I will also place a complimentary Text Link Advertisement to your store/site in the right-hand sidebar Prime-Real Estate corner of my Sponsor Section for 30 days from the day the review is posted.

I will also accept business cards as fillers if you provide them, and send them out when shipping products from my eBay store as a means of extra exposure for you.

Additionally, I will post a Monthly Photo Collage of all the items I have reviewed for that given month, linked to your site, so you will receive double-exposure for that month.

Drop Shippers

I am always looking for Drop Shippers for my Shoppes site, and after reviewing your product, might possibly consider adding your products.  Please forward your Drop Ship terms to me when you contact me.

If you are unable to submit a sample, I also offer very affordable advertising if you would like your site listed.

Website/Blog Reviews

I also offer reviews of websites and blogs.   Website reviews for companies or sites are available if you  provide a gift certificate that can be used try out your website. I must be able to order a product of my choice, at which point I would then write a review covering your product, ease of use, checkout and shipping services.  The product received will be mine to keep, and is not returnable.  I will provide a written review containing a minimum of 200 words, along with a link to your site.  I also require permission to use a photo of the product for the website review.  If you have any questions, please contact me for specific details.

Email me at (Please put ‘Product Review‘ in the reference)

moomettesmagnificents06@yahoo.com

Please allow 24 hours for a response.

One of my duties at my cubicle job is to read about 20 major newspapers online each day. I scour the Internet for relevant newsworthy material pertaining to our industry.

Today I happened to notice an article in one of the “Entertainment” sections of the news discussing the virtues of dining at the perfect crab house. We New Englanders’ love our seafood ~ but the best crab dinner I’ve ever had was at a crab house on the Jersey Shore.

Several years ago my family vacationed at Cape May. While we all enjoyed the serenity and ambiance of the Cape May hotels, Victorian houses & mansions, the kiddos were itching for something a little more…teenager-ish. It was just a hop, skip & a jump over to Wildwood.

So if you’ll be traveling to the Jersey Shore, be sure to schedule your itinerary around all the Wildwood events that are coming up this summer! Morey’s Piers is a great place to check out for a New Jersey vacation.

The upcoming Radio Disney Summer Concert Series will be held in Wildwood, New Jersey at Morey’s Piers in the month of July. These are FREE concerts and many of the Top Radio Disney artists will be there.

Highlights of the event and the exciting Thing to do in New Jersey include:

-July 7th, 14th and 21st - Magic Mondays - Radio Disney’s hottest musical artists will appear live on Morey’s Piers. These FREE concerts will take place at the Radio Disney stage next to the Giant Ferris Wheel on Morey’s Mariner’s Landing pier. Show times are scheduled for 1 pm and 4 pm.

-The Radio Disney Summer Concert Series finale is scheduled for 2 pm Saturday, July 26, 2008 at the Wildwoods Convention Center Oceanfront Arena with Raven-Symone from Disney Channel’s “That’s so Raven” and the currently showing Walt Disney movie, “College Road Trip” starring Martin Lawrence and Raven-Symone. The July 26th concert will also feature Mitchell Musso from the “Hannah Montana Show”.

-July 26th Concert ticket holders may enjoy super savings at Morey’s Piers from the time of purchase through July 27, 2008. Simply show your official July 26 Radio Disney Summer Concert Series finale ticket at Guest Services on Mariner’s Landing and receive $10 off an all-day water park ticket for either Raging Waters or Ocean Oasis, or $10 off an amusement pier wristband valid for all three of Morey’s Piers, or $15 off a one-day splash and ride combination ticket.

A new highlight of my Blog will be featuring and offering site reviews of WAHM (Work-At-Home Mom) eBiz ventures. I would like to try to offer a “Best Of WAHM Site Award” Banner to a WAHM who’s site has been featured.

It’s great to see so many young women taking the plunge and becoming business owners and self-employed. This was essentially not an option when I was younger!

I’d like to start out by letting you know about a young, WAHM who is venturing into the Virtual Assistant services field.

Erin Hall has recently launched her EH Virtual Assistant Services website. Proud mom of a toddler daughter, Erin and her husband are expecting their second child . Describing herself as a team player and Varsity College Lacrosse Letter Winner, Erin’s drive and determination are certain to assure this mompreneur success in whatever she sets out to accomplish!

A Virtual Assistant (or simply VA), is an independent contractor providing administrative, technical, or sometimes creative assistance to clients …Wikpedia

Erin holds a B.S. in Communication, concentrating in Advertising and Marketing, with a Minor in Business Administration. Erin is experienced in all aspects of the sales and marketing area, with extensive experience in the Advertising and Pharmaceutical fields.

A sampling of the services that EH Virtual Assistant Services is able to offer are:

- Marketing/Advertising /Cold Calling/Mailings

- Business Promotion/Event Promotion & Conference Planning

- Advertising Copy and Articles

- Press Releases

- Creation of Training Materials

- Consulting Services

- Travel Arrangements

As each business has a different budget and need, one can request a free initial consultation.

Please take a moment to visit Erin’s site and see what areas she may be able to assist you with in your business!

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If you would like the opportunity to be a featured WAHM on my blog, please drop me a note or comment to have your WAHM site or Blog reviewed and be considered for an Award Banner!