Love, Love, Love- Holiday Edition

I am in holiday decorating mode and wanted to share some cute things that I have found...

Personalized Ornament

1st Hanukkah Onesie

Reindeer T-shirt

Cloth Hanukkah Book for Kids

Personalized Kids Stockings

Nativity Playdough Playmat

Wandering Purgatory

Last March we featured two wonderful infant loss organizations called SOBBS (Stories of Babies Born Still) &MOAA (Mom of An Angel).  Both organizations were started by a wonderful mom named Lori.  At the time we mentioned that Lori had just come out with a book called "Wandering Purgatory".  "Wandering Purgatory" takes you along on Lori's heartbreaking experience of losing her firstborn to Stillbirth.

Little Orso is partnering up with SOBBS  &MOAA  to help shatter the silence surrounding infant loss by sharing links, books, products, services, sites...etc that have been helpful to the grieving heart of a mother.

Wandering Purgatory is just such a book. It is a true story written to empower, educate and illuminate the tragedy that is stillbirth. If you would like to read this amazing story and help shatter the silence click on this link.

Lori's book was just used in the production of "Return to Zero", a movie based on a couple that loses their child to Stillbirth. Minnie Driver plays the mother, and production bought this book to give her an inside on what it feels like to lose a child.  I am so proud of Lori, and this fabulous book.

Pick up a copy of Wandering Purgatory today!! Use promo code justyn when you checkout and you will save $1 on your purchase..

**The post above is a sponsored post.  We received free products, or financial compensation from the above mentioned company.  However the reviews and thoughts of Little Orso were not influenced in any way, and are our genuine thoughts and feelings.

 

Lost Lovey :(

If your child is attached to a certain "lovey" (stuffed animal, blanket, doll etc..) then this post is for you.  I have always been a huge stuffed animal fan, and would be heart broken if I lost one of them:(

My son has a few animals that he is already attached to, and every once in a while they fall out of the stroller or out the car door (you know that pile of stuff that falls out when you open the door to get them out).  We have been lucky so far, and noticed every time.  However I am sure that there will come a time when we won't be s lucky.  I dread that day:(  That is why I was so excited when I saw this great service and product. 

Lost My Lovey is an online lost and found service for children's toys.  They have set up a "classified like" site, where you can post ads about lost or found loveys.  It is free to post, and you can post as many times as you like.

They also make these great tags, that you can attach to your kid's toys. The tag is custom embroidered with your phone number, and a special id number. These tags help you get back your loved item.  I love this idea so much.  I have found so many stuffed animals, dolls, and blankets at the park and on walks.  I try to leave them somewhere safe that they can be found, but I would love to be able to call the owner.

They also have a replacement section just in case you can't find your missing item, or if you would like to buy a back up item.  I also like this section for locating a toy from your childhood. They have great resources to help you find those hard to find items.  I know there are a few toys that I had growing up, that I would love to get for my son.

I am so in love with this site...I am one of those people that believes that stuffed animals come to life;) hehehe Like Toy Story:)  So the idea of losing one makes me so sad. 

I figured with all of the holiday traveling going on right now, it was a great time to share Lost My Lovey with all of you.  If you have a child that is attached to one lovey, I suggest you head over and get some tags today!!

Holiday Card Time!!

It's time to buy your holiday cards, invitations, and more.

Just in time for the season, Tiny Prints is offering 30% off everything on their site. Custom holiday cards, Christmas cards, Hanukkah cards, holiday party invitations, custom photo gifts...you name it, it's on sale for two days, today, Monday November 26 and tomorrow, Tuesday November 27.

Just use the promo code CB12 when you checkout to get this great deal.

If you have used Tiny Prints before, you know how incredibly awesome they are. If you have not, you are missing out on the best custom cards, invitations, and gifts. Their site is super easy to use and you can customize everything. You write your own text, upload pictures, and make everything uniquely you!

There will never be a better time to buy from Tiny Prints and this sale ends tomorrow at midnight Pacific Time, so check them out today.

We ordered our cards from them last week, I can't wait for our cards to arrive so I can share them with you:)

**The post above is a sponsored post.  We received free products, or financial compensation from the above mentioned company.  However the reviews and thoughts of Little Orso were not influenced in any way, and are our genuine thoughts and feelings.

Daddy Orso is in Love

My husband loves helping with Little Orso, but this was hands down the best thing I have asked him to do.  A company called Xenon Project asked us if we would review one of their remote control helicopters.  My husband could not say "Yes!!" fast enough.  When he found out that it would be a Marine Corp helicopter (he is a retired Marine and loves anything Marine related), I think he may have stopped breathing ;)

His assignment was to play with the helicopter all weekend.  We played outside, and inside.  We shared with the neighborhood kids, and let our 20 month old son play with it.  I am happy to report that the helicopter is still in one piece:)

Doesn't that look like a real helicopter??

I have to admit that I was very impressed by the helicopter too.  The design was amazing, it looked so real.  No chunky pieces, like the remote control vehicles of my childhood.

There was almost no assembly required, just add some batteries to the remote control and charge the helicopter (plug it into your computer with a USB cord, or you can charge it off your remote control iteself).

The remote was very user friendly and comfortable to hold.  I remember some being so bulky or heavy, that it took the fun out of using them.  It is very sensitive though, so it does require some practice.

The helicopter is recommended for children over 14 years.  I think maybe 10 and up, if they have previous RC experience.  However that should not keep you from buying one for younger kids.  My 20 month old son had a fabulous time chasing the helicopter around, and even sat still and watched it take off and land (you know how hard it is to get a toddler to sit).

The best part is that the helicopter is safe for inside and outside play.  I have a lot of delicate items (up high and out of reach of little hands), and I felt ok with the helicopter being flown in the house.

This helicopter was a huge hit in our home!!  I really don't have anything bad to say about it, and was shocked at how affordable they are.

Xenon Project is a Southern California based company, that sells high end items like this. They specialize in remote control vehicles, and carry many other items besides this helicopter.

The company was started by two RC enthusiasts that wanted to bring great items to their customers, and they have hand picked some of the best items out there.  Not only did we have a great weekend playing with this helicopter, but I now know where to shop for my husband and son for every holiday.

We are thinking that a boat would be great, for the near by lake or pool:)  My husband is leaning towards some tanks to battle me with...lol

And here comes the fun part for you...Xenon Project is letting us give the helicopter away to one of our fans. (I have a feeling that some men may actually stop by today)

To enter this Giveaway you must do 3 things:

1.  Like Xenon Project on Facebook

2.  Be a fan of Little Orso on Facebook

3. Leave a comment below telling us which Xenon Project is on the top of your wish list.  Remember you do not have to log in to leave a comment, but you do need to put your name in the comment so we know who to contact.

This Giveaway will end tomorrow (11/20) at midnight (pst). A winner will be announced on our Facebook page on Wednesday (11/21) morning.

Good luck!!

**The post above is a sponsored post.  We received free products, or financial compensation from the above mentioned company.  However the reviews and thoughts of Little Orso were not influenced in any way, and are our genuine thoughts and feelings.

Be Brave!!

I am a sucker for cute accessories, especially bracelets!! There is nothing better than finding a cute affordable accessory, except finding out that the bracelet that you want actually helps raise money for important causes.

That is how I felt when my friend Lori from SOBBS and Mom of an Angel, shared these beautiful bracelets called Bravelets with me.

Bravelets are made of 316L stainless steel (which means less staining and discoloring than silver), and genuine leather.  They have the words "Be Brave" inscribed on each one.  Today I will be focusing on the three options for Pregnancy and Infancy Loss.  However they do make others, to benefit almost every cause.

Bravelets were started when the owner of the company's mom was diagnosed with breast cancer.  She wanted to make something that her family could wear to show their support, in the weeks up to her mastectomy.

"There are times in all of our lives where we need to be brave – whether for ourselves, for our family, for our friends, or even for a complete stranger.  Bravelets™ bracelets are more than just something to wear on your wrist.  They are a symbol of hope, strength and courage.  They are designed to help you be brave in the toughest of times. "

Since then their company has taken off.  They now make Bravelets for many causes, and let organizations set up fundraisers with them 

Their website is also wonderful, and has a section that allows you to share your stories of bravery.

Which brings me back to the Bravelets specifically for Pregnancy and Infant Loss.  Lori found these fabulous bracelets, and set up a fundraiser for Pregnancy and Infant Loss. 
There are three colors to choose from: Blue, Pink, and White.

 

Bravelets sell for $35 a piece, and if you buy them through this link $10 of every purchase will go to Pregnancy and Infant Loss.  Lori does so much for Pregnancy and Infant Loss, so you know that this money will make a huge difference.

These Bravelets are beautiful, and they will make you feel great wearing them.  I know I need a constant reminder to stay brave, I can't think of a better way to remind myself.  This is definitely on my Christmas wishlist. 

"Click Take a Pic..."

If you guys are anything like me...then you take a ton of photos and then wonder what cute things you can do with them.  I am always looking for ways to display them around my house.  I hate leaving cute pictures in the package they get sent in, or in a photo box somewhere. (although digging through those boxes is fun on lazy nights)

Frames are always a fun option, but so many of them are boring.  They either have no distinguishing qualities, or too many.  I can't stand the overdecorated items that they have in most kids departments.  The photo should be main feature, not the frame.  The frame is there to be the fabulous supporting actor;)  I have been looking around for cute frames for the last month...and then leave it to another Little Orso reader to share a great frame with me!!  That is the best part about this blog not only do I share things that I love, but you guys take the time to share things that you love too.  Love it!!  Keep sharing:)

How sweet is that frame?  I love how it has a vintage feel, with a modern design.

This frame is from Picture This, a cute online store that sells personalized frames.  The store is owned and run by Jessika, who lives in Iowa and runs an at home daycare.  She said that she loves the children like her own, and is eager to start her own family.

When she isn't working, she is usually creating new items like these frames, jewelery, scrapbooks... Always something new and fun:)

Not only do I get to share these cute frames with you today, but one of you will get the chance to win a $15 gift certificate to Picture This !!  Which is fabulous to win right now, because they are running a two for $30 special.  Frames are usually $18, so this a great deal:)

To enter our Giveaway you must do 2 things:

1. Head over and like Picture This on Facebook.

2. Post a comment below letting us know what frame you would like to win. Remember you do not need to log in to post a comment.  Just make sure that you put your name in the comment (with the first letter of your last name...ie Buckley F.), so that we know who our winner is.

This Giveaway ends tonight (11/14/12) at midnight (pst).  A winner will be picked randomly using random.org.  The winner will be announced on our Facebook page tomorrow morning.  Make sure that you like us, so that you get our announcements:)

Good luck!!!

Little Orso Bookshelf- Pigeon Edition

Our night time routine includes a book before bed.  When my son was younger, he would typically drift off before the end of the second book.  Not anymore!!  If anything he usually looks for another 6 books, or makes up some excuse to stay up later!  How at his age does he even know that kids are supposed to fight bedtime??!?

This book is one of our night time favorites, and helps keep me laughing about the situation;)

"Don't Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late," is about a pigeon that fights bedtime.  It is hilarious, and reminds me that this fight occurs in all families (even animals).  The illustrations are funny too.  Seriously try to read this book, and stay mad!!

I am sure that many of you have probably seen this fabulous series of "pigeon books", by Mo Willems...but if you haven't read them yet, or not this particular one please grab it. 

You will be so glad that you did.  They are all so funny, but this one belongs on every family's nightstand:)

Love, Love, Love- Election Edition....

Teaching our children about campaigns and elections is always a tricky thing. Here are some items that make the discussion exciting, and cute ;)

Of course this item featured last week on our block post, would also make this list:)

Cupcake Toppers

Custom Name Political T-shirt or Onesie

Custom Presidential Print

Presidential Whittle Peg Doll

Presidential Whittle Peg Doll

...and an extra one for good luck & just because my first child was a furbaby

Presidential Election Doggy Bandanna

Happy Voting!!

Rainbow Creations Boutique

Today is a post for you mamas with little girls!!  I try not to feature items that are too gender specific (hate leaving people out), but these are just too cute not to share!!

I know a lot of you will be taking holiday photos, and attending recitals and parties in the next few weeks.  I also know that many of you will be hunting for a cute bow or headband for your daughter...

Well search no further, because Rainbow Creations Boutique has some of the cutest little girl accessories that I have ever seen!

Rainbow Creations  is owned by Cally, a stay at home mom that decided that she needed to create something cute for her daughter...and that would stop people from constantly asking if she was a boy or girl.  It amazes me how people can sometimes be confused.  Maybe it is just our new "PC society's" way of not assuming things??!! 

Rainbow Creations carries flower clips, headbands, hair-bows...and recently started to carry a little something for moms and other special ladies in your life.

These beautiful bracelets would make a great gift for anyone.  They also are the perfect accessory for you to wear to those recitals and parties.  We often forget to get something special for ourselves.  They are just like the famous European bracelets, but you can get them at a fraction of the price.  Which means that you can actually have a completed bracelet to wear:) I have one of those other bracelets, and have been working on completing it for a few years;)  These look just as cute, and actually offer some styles that I have never seen before.

In the short time that this boutique has been around, it has already become a huge hit!!  I can't tell you how many moms have shared them with me. You guys are excited about this boutique, and that is why I am so excited to share our special Giveaway!

One special reader will win the holiday bow featured in this picture (seen above).

To enter this Giveaway you must head over like Facebook and like Rainbow Creations Boutique.

Then leave a comment below letting us know which item you would love to see your daughter, granddaughter, niece, sister, etc...wear this holiday season. You do not need to log in to leave a comment, but if you do not log in please put your name at the end of your comment (ie Buckley F.).  This way we can announce our winner tomorrow.

This Giveaway ends at midnight (pst) tonight (11/5/12).  A winner will be randomly picked using random.org, and announced tomorrow morning.

Good luck to all of you!!

Blocks:)

My son is obsessed with blocks.  We make towers all day long!!  I guess I am to blame for his love of blocks, because I gave him a set of wooden ABC blocks when he was about 4 months old.  I figured you are never too young for blocks.  He loved looking at the colors and pictures back then.  Now he builds towers taller than him, and sometimes feels the need to throw his blocks across the room ;)

There are so many cute blocks on the market these days.  When I was little we had a few wooden block choices, and a few plastic...

Here are some great alternatives to the typical wooden ABC blocks.

President Block Set

Periodic Table Blocks

Lowercase Blocks

Braille and Sign Language Blocks

Rainbow Sound Blocks

Boikido Wooden Blocks

...and if none of these excite you, you can make your own wooden blocks with this very cool kit:)

Make Your Own Blocks

Hope you enjoy, and start building your own towers today:)  If building is not your thing, it is ok because wooden blocks are great to decorate with.  They look cute in a jar, on a shelf, glued on a canvas....