dry case :: waterproof vacuum seal

Water is frequently a part of our summer day, whether it be at the pool, out on the lake, or from just watching the kids jump through the sprinkler.  For a lot of reasons, including some safety related ones, I like to have my phone handy wherever we are even if it is near water.  But being around water so much was making me a bit nervous about the potential disastrous combination of my children and my phone.

Enter Dry Case.  The Dry Case Waterproof phone, camera and music player case is my iPhone's new BFF.  I just put my phone in the Dry Case, hooked up the Headphone & Microphone port, locked the top, and then pumped the air out.  The touchscreen still works thorough the plastic and the investment otherwise known as my iPhone is safely protected from water damage.

Here's a nifty photo to show all the features and parts that come with the Dry Case.

It's good to note that if you want to use your phone to make calls or to listen to music while it's sealed in the Dry Case you will need to hook up some headphones to the Headphone & Microphone Port.  And just because it's waterproof doesn't mean it floats.  Use the provided Lanyard and/or Buoyant Neoprene Armband to keep your expensive electronics from sinking (test the armband for buoyancy with each device).

To show you just how much I trusted the seal on my Dry Case look at the photo to the left.  That is my actual iPhone, my calendar/only phone/to-do list/shopping list/etc.  in the hands of my 3 year old while she was swimming in the pool.  If I didn't trust the seal on my Dry Case to have held there is no way I would have ever tested it out like that...

Waterproof phone, camera and music player case :: $39.99

*I received product to facilitate this review and promotion. The opinions expressed are my own.*

pixelmoda :: classic watch

Before I had kids I wore a watch every day.  Fast forward about 4 years and I have really been missing my watch wearing habit.  Especially when I'm running around with two kids and don't feel like endangering my phone just so it can act as an over sized and over priced time piece.

About 2 weeks ago I got my new PixelModa Classic watch in Plum, and I just have to say that I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my new watch!!! I'm wearing new new super fab watch in the below photo. In fact, I love my PixelModa Classic so much I'm going to count out the reasons why:

1. Comes in 22+ colors.  I have a lovely Plum color PixelModa Classic right now, but I'm thinking a couple more colors like Grapefruit & Brazilian Green need to find a home with me this summer as well.
2. They're 3 ATM water resistant.  This means I don't worry about hand washings, spilled drinks, or emergency grabs into the tub when someone is getting overzealous with their bath time.
3. Ergonomically shaped with a flat back (sits flush against your skin comfortably) and perspiration slits on the side.
4. Come in 3 different sizes.  I have the 17cm, and could probably go down to a 15cm if I had wanted but I like a little loser fit.  Just measure your wrist before ordering to figure out what size will work for you.
5. Lightweight.  In fact, at only 10 grams I frequently even forget I'm wearing it.
6. Inexpensive. (see below just how inexpensive I mean)

Now as much as I love the bright color options available from PixelModa I have to make sure that all you mommas who prefer more classic colors know that you can get yourself a PixelModa Classic in Black, Brown, White and Grey as well.

PixelModa Classic watch :: $20 (SEE! I told you it was inexpensive!)

*I was provided with a Classic watch in order to conduct this review using personal experience.  The opinions provided are my own.*

woodland belle :: jewelry and hair accessories {giveaway}

I love jewelry and I love nature, so when I came across Woodland Belle, a nature-inspired innovative line of jewelry and hair accessories,... well it wasn't long until I was building my wish list. Gorgeous, simple, delicate, easy-to-wear, whimsical and timeless -- pieces from the Woodland Belle collections will compliment any jewelry lover's assortment.
I was immediately drawn to the Branch Collection and its unique and beautiful hair pins. Each hair pin is created out of a cast or mold from real specimens collected on nature walks near the artist's home. The designs are well crafted and made with quality details and materials that stand out from the moment you touch the piece.

While I adore the hair pins I was almost equally as enamored with the packaging I received containing the beautiful jewelry. Perfection. I giggled as I held the precious box which was adorned with a seal and tidy bow. I can already imagine giving a Woodland Belle piece as a gift and watching the recipient's face light up just as mine had.

I promise you will not be disappointed by the playful and distinct pieces offered through Woodland Belle. Each design is a tiny little treasure. Whether you acquire pieces as a gift to yourself or for somebody you love, Woodland Belle designs are a gift that will be very appreciated.

Woodland Belle :: $20.50 :: Tiny Twig Hair Pins

A SIMPLE COUPON ::

From now until June 30th, 2011, SIMPLE readers can get 20% off the total purchase on the Woodland Belle website by using the code SIMPLESUNSHINE! Have fun shopping!

A SIMPLE GIVEAWAY! ::
One SIMPLE reader will win a pair of Tiny Twig Hair Pins from Woodland Belle. Here is how to enter:

• Visit Wooldand Belle and come back here to tell me in a comment which designs you would most like to add to your jewelry and hair accessory collection (Required)
• "Like" SIMPLE on Facebook
• Facebook :: Daily - Leave a link :: Post a status on your facebook hyper linking SIMPLE and this giveaway
• Twitter :: Daily - Leave a link :: #Win a beautiful pair of tiny twig hair pins over at @simplereviews: http://tinyurl.com/mkulsd #giveaway
• Sign up for our daily emails
• Publicly follow SIMPLE via Google Friend Connect
  
• "Like" this review on Facebook below (make sure to leave a comment telling us you did)

The winner will be randomly chosen on June 29, 2011. Please reference Giveaway Rules at the top of the page before entering.

*I was provided Woodland Belle Tiny Twig Hair Pins to conduct this review using personal experience. The opinions expressed are my own*

brideblu :: vintage and handmade jewelry {giveaway}

I'll admit, I'm not one to wear a ton of jewelry. You'll find me in a wedding ring every day and if I'm feeling particularly motivated, you might see me sporting earrings or a necklace once in a while. But there are moments when I come across an etsy shop and I suddenly find myself drooling over every item for sale. That's pretty much how I feel about BrideBlu. When Cat, owner and jewelry designer, contacted me about what piece I wanted, I had an extremely difficult time choosing just one. In the end, I gave her my favorites and told her it was her job to choose. A few days later I received the love dove necklace in antiqued silver and was absolutely delighted with what I saw.
The necklace is beautiful, delicate and hand crafted to perfection. As someone who doesn't claim to wear a lot of jewelry, I can wholeheartedly say this necklace will be worn quite often. It's stunning!

Cat's items are timeless, elegant and versatile. You can wear any of her pieces for a night out on the town or if you're anything like me, at home in your favorite jeans! She has the most unique designs, I can't help but marvel at the ideas she comes up with. Make sure to check out her well-known chalk board message necklace (like I said, genius!). Or if you're a shutterbug like me, you'll most certainly love the camera necklace

Brideblu offers a variety of items, from necklaces to bracelets to earrings. And if you have something in mind, custom orders are always welcome.

A SIMPLE COUPON!
Shop at BrideBlu between May 31st and June 15th and receive 20% off using the code: SIMPLE20

A SIMPLE GIVEAWAY!
One SIMPLE reader will win an item of their choice from BrideBlu's shop (up to a $26 value)! Here's how to enter:

• Visit BrideBlu's shop and come back to comment which item you would choose for yourself (Required)


• "Like" BrideBlu and SIMPLE on facebook and let us know in a comment. (Required)


• Facebook (Daily : Leave a link to your post in our comments) Post a status on your facebook hyper linking SIMPLE and BrideBlu and this giveaway.


• Tweet (Daily : Leave a link to your tweet in our comments) :: #Win a stunning piece of jewelry from BrideBlu over at @simplereviews: http://tiny.cc/stiz0 #giveaway #contest Please RT!


• Enter your email address in the left sidebar on SIMPLE to sign up for daily emails


• Publicly follow SIMPLE via Google Friend Connect

Winner will be randomly chosen on June 14, 2011. Please reference Giveaway Rules at the top of the page before entering. Good luck!

*I was provided the necklace shown above to conduct this review using personal experience. The opinions expressed are my own.*

{*Giveaway closed :: Check the winner's tab to see if it was you*}

purseket :: the original purse organizer {giveaway}

I am notorious for having a disorganized purse. I always seem to toss everything in and hope that I can find it later. So when I found Purseket, I knew that this is exactly what I needed!

Purseket is an insertable organizer, designed to fit into practically any purse. You simply put your purse contents into the organizer, roll the Purseket with the pockets facing the center and drop it into your purse. Easy to use! It comes in 3 sizes (small, medium, and large). Not sure which size will work for you? Fear not--a size chart is available via Purseket's website! I reviewed the large Purseket and it came equipped with plenty of pockets. Eight to be exact and it fit everything I normally keep in my purse. I also slipped the Purseket into an extra tote bag I sometimes use as a diaper bag, and it was awesome!

Purseket offers lots of patterns to choose from, so you will have no problem finding one that will match your purse. You can also check out their notekets and wallets!

Large Purseket :: $23.50

A SIMPLE GIVEAWAY! Two winner opportunities!! Two SIMPLE readers will win a Purseket for themselves! Here is how to enter:

• Visit Purseket and tell us which organizer is your favorite (Required)
• "Like" Purseket on Facebook
• Facebook (Daily : Leave a link to your post in our comments) Post a status on your facebook hyper linking SIMPLE and Purseket and this giveaway.
  
• Tweet (Daily : Leave a link to your tweet in our comments) :: #Win a @PurseketTweets Purseket organizer over at @simplereviews: http://tiny.cc/3gx22 #giveaway #contest Please RT!
• Enter your email address in the left sidebar on SIMPLE to sign up for daily emails
  
• Publicly follow SIMPLE via Google Friend Connect

Winner will be randomly chosen on June 6, 2011. Please reference Giveaway Rules at the top of the page before entering.

*I was provided the large Purseket in order to conduct a review using personal experience. The opinions expressed are my own.

miche bag :: may new releases

Within the past few months I've become a big fan of Miche Bags.  You may have been to one of their home parties, but if you're not familiar check out these reviews from Jaime and I from January of this year.  Jaime tried out Miche's Classic and I got to rock their Big Bag (and have been rocking it almost every day since). You can check out those great reviews for the basics on the brilliancy of how a Miche bag works.

Well, Miche regularly comes out with new shells and I was lucky enough to try out both their new Big Bag shells for May.  Can I just say how much I LOVE these new shells?  Seriously, they have updated my wardrobe to be more 'springy' without having to dump a fortune into a new wardrobe.  Just goes to show you that you can never underestimate the power of a good accessory. :)

I was super excited to try out Savannah from the pictures online (see left).  The great tangerine color just screams spring time to me & I know that once summer finally shows in Michigan this bag will look great with a tan (or as much of a tan as my pale self can get).  This Miche shell just makes me smile. :)

The Abagail shell had me feeling a bit uncertain (pictured right).  That is, until it actually showed up.  This has become my go-to shell for lightning up my darker colored clothing for spring.  It also has the most fantastic pocket on the outer exterior that is perfect for my sunglasses, keys and phone to all be within easy reach.  The faux crocodile pattern also dresses it up a bit which I love.

Savannah Big Bag Shell :: $49.95
Abagail Big Bag Shell ::  $49.95

Don't worry all your Miche Bag Classic & Mini lovers.  There was some new releases in May for you too, and they're just as fun and fabulous!

*I was provided the Miche Bag shells shown above to conduct this review using personal experience. The opinions expressed are my own.*

otterbox :: we've got technology covered

"That thing is amazing, I dropped it good again today."

"It's the only case we have dropped and the case hasn't broken. Let alone the phone!"

Two quotes my husband just said when I told him I was writing the review for Otterbox. My husband sure has given this case the test. Carinn originally reviewed another Otterbox case (you can read that HERE), and she loves that one as well! The case that is being featured today is iPhone 4 Reflex Series Case.

Here are a few key things about this case:

• It is very easy to get on and off. No cracking of the corners or little pieces when putting it together.
• Comes apart very easily for charging/syncing.
  
• Still able to get to main screen without pieces getting in the way.
• VERY DURABLE!
• Still able to fit into my husband's pocket when it's not in use - it's not big and clunky.

"Surrounding your iPhone 4 with a cushion of air and inspired by the crumple zone of a car, this case can take a hit and keep your precious phone as good as the day you got it. Plus, you'll love how easily the Reflex Series snaps apart for convenient docking access! Find maximum OtterBox protection in the smallest, most slim fitting form."

iPhone 4 reflex series case :: $44.95 If you are looking to invest into a case to protect your phone investment, you will not be wasting your money with Otterbox!

*I was provided the case shown above to conduct this review using personal experience. The opinions expressed are my own.*

kidorable backpack promotion!

Kidorable has another great deal going on starting tomorrow, May 16, 2011 and ending May 31, 2011. It's their backpack promotion.

During the dates listed, you can purchase a backpack through their website and receive 20% off by using their coupon code "SUMMER33" at checkout.

What kid doesn't love a good backpack. They are perfect for snacks, books, toys and even just a bag full of goodies for a long car ride. You can see all their backpack styles for boys and girls HERE!

Stay tuned to SIMPLE - we will be having a special promotion with a possible giveaway in the coming weeks here featuring Kidorable! You know we love them as they have been reviewed and mentioned here a few times now!

Red Robin Dress :: Emerson Made {giveaway}

Have you ever found a brand that just completely understands you? You are almost convinced they design their products specifically with you in mind. Well I have found that brand in Emerson Made. Effortless and chic, tasteful and unique, casual and gorgeous -- Emerson knows a woman's body and almost as importantly, a woman's lifestyle.

I had the opportunity to review Emerson Made's Red Robin Dress. Let me share with you that the experience with this dress starts well before you put it on. The online shopping site for Emerson Made is charming with delightful pictures and witty product descriptions. Within a couple of days of ordering the dress I received the most lovely package-- my Red Robin Dress arrived in an Emerson Made cotton bag, perfectly folded and pressed. And, the dress was accompanied by a little sachet of lavender - yum.

Wearing this dress you immediately are drawn to the quality of the materials Emerson has chosen. No detail is left to chance. The Red Robin Dress boasts the perfect red twill fashioned with tiny brass rivets in all the right places. And the dress can be worn any number of ways -- belt it to dress it up or wear it without a belt for a casual look.

As I mentioned above, Emerson knows a woman's lifestyle...and she definitely must know moms. The Red Robin Dress is designed with extra deep pockets (many of Emerson Made designs come with pockets) perfect for holding any number of toddler accoutrement. And her clothing moves. While I would love to believe I can rock 3" heels and draped silk dresses for grocery store runs and playground visits -- I am a realist. My clothes need to work for me. But, that doesn't mean I don't care about my wardrobe and fashion in general. Emerson Made has designed clothes for those women who live life fully and choose to look good while doing so (Emerson and her husband Ryan live on a farm after all).

You too can enjoy this fantastic clothing by visiting the Emerson Made website. And you can also find Emerson Made on Facebook and Twitter!

{*GIVEAWAY CLOSED :: CHECK THE WINNERS PAGE TO SEE IF IT WAS YOU*}

A SIMPLE GIVEAWAY!!!

One very lucky SIMPLE reader will win an Emerson Made Signature 5" Poppy Pin! Emerson's gorgeous accessories were the reason I was first drawn to her line of clothing -- every woman needs this pop of fancy for her wardrobe (wear it on a coat, shirt, purse...even a diaper bag!). Here is how to enter:

• Visit Emerson Made and tell me in the comments section which of Emerson's design you would like to wear this Spring. (Required)
• "Like" Emerson Made on Facebook (make sure to come back here and tell me in a separate comment)
• Follow Emerson Made on Twitter and share this great brand with your followers -- write something like: Enter to win a Signature Emerson Made Poppy Pin at @simplereviews (http://www.simple-momreviews.com)! (Daily tweets are allowed. And remember to leave the link to your tweets here in the comments section.)

Giveaway ends on April 20th, 2011. Good luck!

*I was provided with Emerson Made's Red Robin Dress in order to conduct this review. My opinions are my own.*

City Thistle

Spring is the time of year I love to purchase a few inexpensive pieces of jewelry that will go with all my simple tee shirts, tanks, and dresses. My wardrobe tends to be pretty plain, and I use accessories to dress up my style.

Hands down, without a doubt my favorite place to find treasures is online, particularly Etsy. I love Etsy in particular for two reasons.

1. I know I'm supporting small business, often times work at home moms.

2. My purchase is unique. Buying handmade goods typically ensures whatever you buy is being made in small batches, and oftentimes one of a kind.

City Thistle is one of my new favorite places on Etsy to shop for cool, reasonably priced accessories. Created by a mom of two small little boys, I love that she finds inspiration from both her childhood home in Tennessee, as well as her stay in far away Malawi.

Bethany, the owner of City Thistle, recently gifted me the Icy Rose Necklace ($23), and I adore it. It's the perfect blend of modern simplicity, with a vintage feel. It goes with almost everything I own, considering I'm the queen of black/gray and beige.

I've worn it just a few times, and have received compliments each and every time I put it around my neck. My next City Thistle piece might have to be this Pretty in Pink Necklace & Earring Set, or maybe a funky hair pin.

You know, Mother's Day is just around the corner!

The Necklace Nanny is Necessary!

{giveaway closed :: check winner's tab to see if you won} I don't know about you, but whenever I take my girls out shopping, it is essential that I have a toy for them both to play with. The Necklace Nanny is a cool product that allows those toys to stay hooked to my stroller so that I am not always picking toys off the floor (yuck!). The Necklace Nanny is super easy to use. You can attach it to your child's favorite toy and then loop it around your stroller or shopping cart. Forget about constantly bending down to pick up toys that your child has tossed onto the ground! The Necklace Nanny comes in three bright colors, and is made from a flexible, elasticized material that allows for flexiblity, and is machine washable (a mommy-must!). You can also wear the Necklace Nanny around your neck to entertain baby when you hold them.

One of the things that I love about the Necklace Nanny is that it also limits the "toy stealing" that happens when I am out with my girls! They love to take each other's toys, and with the Necklace Nanny, the toys stay put and no one ends up in tears, especially me

The Necklace Nanny: $12.99

A SIMPLE GIVEAWAY: One lucky SIMPLE reader will win a Necklace Nanny of their own! Here is how you can win one:

• Leave a comment telling me about your greatest shopping challenges with little ones! (REQUIRED)


• "Like" The Necklace Nanny on Facebook


• Send some twitter love and tweet something like the following (daily tweets allowed and leave the link to your tweet): Enter to win a Necklace Nanny at @simplereviews: http://tinyurl.com/4sll693 #giveaway #win #contest


• Sign up to receive our daily emails on our home page in the upper left hand corner


• Vote for us in the Top Mom contest. Just click the thumbs up on this link: http://www.circleofmoms.com/blogger/839 (vote daily for more entries)


• Vote for us in the Top Mommy Blogs. Just go to our home page and click on the blinking logo...that's it! (vote daily for more entries)

Giveaway ends on April 11, 2011. Good luck!

*I was provided with a Necklace Nanny to conduct this review. The opinions expressed are my own.

Cover up that Technology Safely!

When I first received my MacBook Air, I instantly loved it. BUT after having it for only a couple hours, I realized I needed something to keep it nice and fresh (and protected) so it stayed looking as awesome as Apple products do.

So, I started my search on etsy...of course! I mean, where else do you go to find GREAT products that are very unique!

My search landed on Borsa Bella. Here is a little about Melissa, the shop owner:

Melissa’s creative talent was apparent at a young age and her mother adeptly harnessed this talent by teaching her to design and sew at the age of six. A native of Richland, Washington, Melissa was later drawn to the Wenatchee Valley with a fast pitch scholarship offered by Wenatchee Valley College. After completing her business degree at Eastern Washington University, she returned to the area and began sewing and designing bags as a hobby. When demand for her creations grew, she began selling her products online and doing home parties.

Not only is this cover very fashionable, but it is very sturdy and keeps my computer safe. There is padding as well as a zippered pouch on the outside to keep my keys, small wallet and iPhone if I have to run into a coffee shop quick to catch up on some emails, etc. Then I don't have to carry my whole purse! Comes with strap and all! AND...if I do have to carry my purse, this will slide right in. It's not big and bulky.

The shop owner makes a ton of great things. Click HERE to head on over to her etsy page and you will get a snapshot of all the items! Continue reading for other links to take advantage of.

You can follow along with Borsa Bella in her many ways via the web. She has a twitter account, a Facebook Group, a blog and a website. Not to mention her etsy shop!

GET YOUR OWN!! Visit Borsa Bella today at any of the links listed in the paragraph above. If a MacBook Air cover is what you need, you can get your own for as little at $46. She also has Hobo Bags, eReader Bags, Gadget bags and more!

*I was provided with the MacBook Air cover shown above free of charge to conduct this review. The opinions shown here are my own. I love mine, and if you need one too, you should get it here!*

No more Hot Laps - The E-Stand

As a photographer I spend many hours at a time using my laptop.

When I process a wedding or portrait session I am bound to my recliner more often than not, editing away on my macbook pro laptop.

However, after about 30-45 minutes my laptop gets extremely hot. This is common for most laptops - and almost always I just put a pillow under it to keep the heat from my legs. However, this does nothing for the actual laptop, and the constant heat can kill a computer over time.

I discovered a perfect solution called the E-Stand. There are two versions to this product, I have the LD-09 and have really enjoyed it!

The E-Stand has everything covered.
From a convenient fold up design (allow it to come with you)

A detachable USB cord that connects from your laptop to the stand - providing air flow with a dual fan.

It provides adjustable legs - so the height can be adjusted to your specific needs.

You can also use the E-Stand "flat" - on a desk surface as well.

GET YOUR OWN: Not only does the E-Stand cover the obvious must, at helping with heat and cooling - but it also comes equip with a mouse area as well as a spot for your drink and pen/pencil. If you have a laptop and need a solution for using it on your lap, check into the E-Stand! It comes in a variety of colors as well.

A SIMPLE COUPON: If you use the coupon code "SIMPLE" at check out - you will save $10 off the E-Stand LD-09 (any color!) - this would make a great gift for any one you know who uses a laptop - maybe fathers day gift?? :-) - Coupon only good through Feb! so be sure to use it now.




Disclosure:
Next Success provided me with a black E-Stand to showcase and review on SIMPLE.