GirlzLyfe.com $20 Gift Certificate Giveaway

It's that time again, guys! If you've missed out on the GirlzLyfe.com giveaways of the past, here's your chance to try again. We're giving away a $20 gift card, and just check out some of the neat things you can get...

Love Swallow Necklace - $12

Hello Kitty Rainbow Striped Socks - $14


Bitten Vampire Necklace - $18

Drunken Masters Ninja Swizzle Sticks - $18.99


There are so many different things to pick, and right now, there's a super sale going on with items from $.99 to $5.99 so you can get more bang for your buck! Here's how to win:
Mandatory: You MUST be a follower of 2 Lil Muffins to win. Leave a comment telling me you are a new follower or that you've been here all along! ;-)

Extra Entries:

- Like GirlzLyfe on Facebook - 3 Extra Entries. Say hi on their wall and let them know 2 Lil Muffins sent you!

- Follow GirlzLyfe on Twitter - 2 Extra Entries. Tweet this giveaway. Ex: "Win a $20 GirlzLyfe Gift Certificate and Get Your Shop On! http://tinyurl.com/67y2qh9"

- Make a Purchase from GirlzLyfe - 10 Extra Entries. Leave a comment letting me know what you purchased and when!

- Comment on any other post on this blog - 1 Extra Entry. Let me know which post you commented on!

That's it! The giveaway will end March 1, 2011 at 8pm EST and the winner will be selected randomly. Remember to leave a comment for EACH entry so they count. Ex: if you gain 10 extra entries for purchasing an item, leave 10 comments. Also, make sure I can get your e-mail address from your profile or leave it in the comments. Thanks and good luck!

$25 GirlzLyfe.com Gift Certificate Giveaway (CLOSED)

Let me just start by saying I LOVE the Girlz Lyfe shop! They have the cutest stuff, and it's all reasonably priced. The owner, Veronica, is super nice, and has agreed to do another giveaway with us - so one of you lucky readers gets the chance to win a $25 gift certificate.

Since everything is such a great price, you can choose from a ton of items for just $25 - or, add to it and get even more goodies. Girlz Lyfe has great gift items and things for the home along with all that fantastic girl merchandise. Or, pick up something for your favorite pooch. There are things for little girls, grown-up girls, and even baby girls!
One thing I love about the things in the store is that they're not seen everywhere - so if you purchase a necklace or a t-shirt, it's not likely that you're going to see someone else wearing it. Also, they have a ton of items that are whimsical and funny.

You really have to browse through the store to get a real appreciation of what's available! It's a miracle that I haven't bought them out of everything they carry! So...without further ado...

How to Enter: Follow this blog publicly, and visit the Girlz Lyfe shop. Browse through the adorable items and let me know what you'd purchase with your gift certificate.

Extra Entries:

• "Like" Girlz Lyfe on Facebook and leave a message on their wall, saying 2 Lil Muffins sent you. (2 Extra Entries)

• Follow Girlz Lyfe on Twitter and tweet about this contest. Leave me a comment with the link to the tweet. This can be done daily. (2 Extra Entries)

• E-mail Subscribe to this blog and confirm, or leave a comment if you're already a subscriber. (1 Extra Entry)

• Purchase an item from Girlz Lyfe and leave me a comment with the details. (10 Extra Entries)

• Sign up for the Girlz Lyfe newsletter (left of the website, little blue box). You'll get discount details and much more. (1 Extra Entry)

• Want another chance to win AND another entry here? Enter Yona's Girlz Lyfe giveaway and leave me a comment letting me know you did. (1 Extra Entry)

Good luck everyone! The contest will end 8/12 at 8PM and the winner will be chosen by Random.org. Please remember to leave a comment for EACH entry so it will be counted - and don't forget to add your e-mail address if it's not on your public profile.

Handmade Striped Bud Vase Giveaway (CLOSED)

I've recently discovered another new shop that I've fallen in love with on Etsy. Neal D Miller is a college student who has done some work in various ceramic studios - and the beautiful vases he creates are gorgeous. With fabulous bold colors and unique glazing techniques - the vases are really something to behold!



Not only do I want to own every single vase in his collection, but I think they would make fantastic gifts for Mother's Day, birthdays or other special occasions. You'd expect to pay an arm and a leg for these beauties, but the prices are VERY good!



I'd really recommend picking up one of his pieces for yourself or the next time you need a really special gift for someone you cherish.



Neal has graciously offered to give one of his beautiful vases to a 2 Lil Muffins reader! The striped bud vase is an adorably small vase that I think would be perfect to pull out when the little ones bring you handfuls of wildflowers from the yard...and wouldn't it make them feel great that you've got a special vase just for such occasions? The dimensions are: Height: 3.75" Diameter: 2.5" Opening: 1".

How to Enter: Visit the NealDMiller shop on Etsy and let me know which vase is your favorite.

Extra Entries:

• Follow this blog publicly. (1 Extra Entry)

• Subscribe to 2 Lil Muffins via email and confirm. (1 Extra Entry)

• Follow me on twitter and tweet this giveaway. Can be done daily! (2 Extra Entries)

• Purchase anything from the NealDMiller shop on Etsy and leave me a comment letting me know what you purchased. (10 Extra Entries)

• Heart the NealDMiller Etsy Shop. (2 Extra Entries)

This giveaway will end April 13, and the winner will be chosen by Random.org! Please remember to leave a comment for each entry so they count when the winner is generated - and leave your email address if it's not available in your profile. Good luck, ladies and gentlemen! :-)

Comment of the Week:

"Carapace said... And I follow this blog, so obviously I appreciate the finer things! :D"

Handmade Leather iPod/iPhone Case Giveaway from In Blue on Etsy (CLOSED)

It's important to be able to express your personality - whether it's through the clothes you're wearing, the work you're doing, or (my personal favorite) your accessories. That's why I'm really excited about this giveaway! In Blue on Etsy is a fabulous artist, creating handmade leather accessories, journals and other fun things.


Artist's Bio:

I (mary lynn) recently started a small apparel company while on hiatus from Chicago (hiatus and company still going strong). I currently reside in Senator Paul Simon's hometown (population 450), where I run a store/studio called Dayshift. I sew each and every day, motivated by the everchanging landscape and culture shock. I am most excited by color and texture, along with the reckless abandonment of the thimble.



One of Mary Lynn's coolest accessories are her handmade leather iPod and iPhone cases - with any kind of design you could imagine. It's super easy to find one that suits your personal style and taste. She has generously offered to sponsor this giveaway, and the lucky winner will be able to choose which of the $13 iPod/iPhone cases they want!


These are the perfect gifts for someone you know who simply goes nowhere without their iPod or iPhone, so as you look through the In Blue shop, consider picking one up for yourself or your friend or family member - and support handmade!

How to Enter: Browse through the In Blue shop on Etsy and let me know which case is your favorite, or which you'd choose if you won the contest.

Extra Entries:

• Follow this blog publicly. (1 Extra Entry)

• Subscribe to 2 Lil Muffins via email. (1 Extra Entry)

• Follow me on Twitter and tweet this giveaway. (1 Extra Entry) - Can be tweeted daily.

• Heart the In Blue shop on Etsy. (1 Extra Entry)

• Purchase an item from In Blue, and let me know which one you purchased. (10 Extra Entries)

• Grab my button and leave a link to where it's posted. (3 Extra Entries)

This contest will end April 10, 2010 at 8PM EST and the winner will be chosen through Random.org. Please remember - I need your email address to contact you. Don't forget to leave a comment for each entry so they count when the winner is generated. good luck all!

Eco-Luxury + Win a Sandy Shore Glass Bead Bracelet (CLOSED)

I'd like to take a few moments to talk to you about something that means a lot to me. The Green Connoisseur is a company that my partners and I have been proud to be affiliated with. Highlighting eco-friendly luxury - from organic pet-pampering products to eco-friendly jewelry to energy saving luxury cars - the company makes it super easy to keep up to date with the newest and trendiest in eco-luxury items.You can visit the site and check out some really fabulous items - highlighted by my partners and myself in feature articles. I'd love to hear what you guys think of the site and what you might like to see there. They've recently started a Facebook page and Twitter account to make it easier to get great information and tips on green and eco-friendly related companies and items. Because I believe in this company so much, I'm offering a super-fantastic giveaway to help promote the Facebook and Twitter pages.
The Giveaway:

When I have time, I really love making jewelry. This giveaway will give one of you the chance to win my very favorite handmade item - ever. The Sandy Shore Glass Bead bracelet is without a doubt my favorite and I'm not even sure why. It's a memory wire bracelet, so you just wrap it around your wrist and you're good to go.



Plus - this will look fabulous with absolutely any outfit! It looks to me like sea glass collected during a romantic walk and saved - later to be added to jewelry as a memento. Maybe I'm just a romantic at heart. In any case...it's soon to belong to one of you!

How to Enter: Visit the Green Connoisseur's Facebook page and become a fan. Leave a message on the wall telling them 2 Lil Muffins sent you!

Extra Entries:

• Follow The Green Connoisseur on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

• Refer The Green Connoisseur to your Twitter followers (leave a comment with a link to the tweet) (2 extra entries - can be done daily.)

That's it! As you can see, this is a very special giveaway. It will end on April 3, 2010 and the winner will be chosen by Random.org. Don't forget to leave your email address if it's not public in your profile and leave a comment for each entry. Tell your friends about this post too, please! Good luck everyone.

UPDATE: I just wanted to make sure it was clear that the bracelet isn't made by The Green Connoisseur, but by me. The giveaway is hosted by me to help promote The Green Connoisseur - an eco-friendly luxury site. Check it out at www.TheGreenConnoisseur.com - I think you'll like it!

Pearl Flower Asymmetrical Necklace Giveaway (CLOSED)

When I saw Beads Story on Etsy - I absolutely fell in love. Every single piece of jewelry is beautiful and unique. In fact, it would be difficult to choose a piece of jewelry from their shop that isn't 'my style.' The owner, Anca, generously allowed me to choose an item for a giveaway...and it was so hard! I think you'll find that I didn't let you guys down though. But first, let's find out a little more about the shop.

I'm completely enamored with the bracelets. There are so many beautiful ones - and they're very different from what you see everywhere - which is what I love so much! The above one is absolutely darling. Of course, while there are a ton of gorgeous bracelets, there are other pretties too...The shop bio sums it up perfectly - "I love Jewelery." So do we, right, ladies? And one of you lucky 2 Lil Muffins readers is going to get the chance to win a beautiful piece of jewelry from Beads Story's shop.


Stunning and rich, elegant and luxurious, this pearl necklace features a unique flower.

This is a very beautiful, natural and romantic design featuring a antique brass filigree covered with pearls.Six 6 mm ivory glass pearls and one 8 mm ivory glass pearl designed in a flower shape will accentuate the beauty of this necklace. This special pendant is continued with 8 mm ivory pearls. It measures 18'' long with a 2'' extender.

• How to Enter: Visit Beads Story on Etsy and browse through the amazing jewelry. Let me know in a comment which one is your absolute favorite!

Extra Entries:

• Heart the Beads Story shop on Etsy. (1 extra entry)

• Purchase an item from the shop and let me know what you purchased. (10 extra entries)

• Follow me on twitter and tweet this giveaway. (1 extra entry)

• Follow this blog publicly. (1 extra entry)

• Subscribe to 2 Lil Muffins via email. (1 extra entry)

This giveaway will end March 28, 2010 at 8pm EST and the winner will be chosen with Random.org. Please remember to leave your email address if it's not public in your profile. Also, leave a comment for each entry so they count when the winner is generated. Good luck, ladies!!

Review of Conduit Press on Etsy and Upcycled Notebook Giveaway (CLOSED)

I can't tell you how much writing is a part of my life. It's how I earn a living, it's what I do in my spare time, and as if that weren't enough - I also keep journals that I write in on a regular basis. Writing and reading are as much a part of me as breathing and blinking - so finding Conduit Press on Etsy was a real treat for me. Talia, the owner, creates beautiful 'upcycled' journals, notebooks and other items that are unique and special.

I was lucky enough to be given the chance to review some special notebooks from Conduit Press, and to interview Talia. I hope you enjoy - and as you'll see at the end of this post, Talia has offered something very special for a lucky 2 Lil Muffins reader!

The Interview:

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

"Well, I'm a stay.work at home momma of a beautiful bouncing little 7 month old beauty named Griffin as well as a wacky teenager and a game-playing 8 year old. I spend my days reading Goodnight Moon and The Hungry Caterpillar and singing the ABC's in my best soprano (I'm an alto, so it's not a very good soprano). I spend my afternoons (baby nap times) tearing paper and cutting leather to make into beautiful handmade books that give me a catharsis I can't even explain.

I spend my evenings helping glue together shoebox book reports and editing freshman English term papers. I spend my nights cuddling with my Loving husband on the sofa whilst watching Lost (on a good day). I spend my life creating beautiful amazing useful too many words to describe people and things and I pretty much Love it."


2. Your shop contains quite a few 'upcycled' or recycled goods. What is your favorite creation to make?

"Really, every book is a joy to make. It really is. And every time I come up with a new design for a new book I fall in Love with that very one just a little bit more than the last. I've recently discovered that upcycling materials to make into books is so much more fulfilling than simply buying book board and paper from an art store because, well, you can really feel good about where it comes from, and where it's going. So, currently, my favorite creation to make is the leather journals I've been working on.

Leather is such a versatile material in so many ways and it's really beautiful. I'm using an upcycled leather from an upholstery shop in town so I know it's of extraordinary quality and had I not purchased this leather, it would have ended up in a dumpster. It feels really good to know that I was able to save something from adding to the pile of rubbish that we create daily without even thinking about it."



3. How long have you been creating paper goods, journals, etc?

"I've been making books in some form since I was a wee child honestly. My father bought me my first diary when I was about 7 and when I filled that up I stapled some pages together, tore a beautiful photography of a ballerina out of a magazine and called that a cover. Since then I've definitely grown with my skills though. ;)

I took an Artist's Books class my senior year of college (about 8 years ago now) and I never looked back. There is where I learned how to make archival books using archival materials and learned how to really sew a book together they way you're 'supposed to'. Ever since I've been reading Keith Smith books like crazy and teaching myself all the new ways in which to bind and create books. One can never really have enough books I think, because we never stop thinking to fill them."

4. Do you have a favorite piece in the shop now?

"I do. It's leather, of course. It's a maroon leather journal with a large round chartreuse bead sewn on the wraparound cover. I Love the colors of this journal. I Love maroon and chartreuse together for some reason. I like their opposition on the color wheel, and their brightness. I also Love the size of this journal (about 4x6) and that it's landscape and not portrait. It could be used as a photo album or a journal or even a sketchbook. The pages inside are a nice medium tooth white paper that will take almost any medium and the leather covers are nice and durable to protect whatever is inside."



5. In your opinion, what's the coolest thing about Conduit Press?

"For me, the coolest thing about CP is that it gives me the freedom to create things and share them with people I might never meet in real life. I Love creating and the art of creating things and being able to share them with the world, is really amazing. Aside from that, I think the coolest thing is that I am able to use a lot of materials in my art that would otherwise be trash, and saving our world from more trash is well, cool. :)"

She's right - it's totally cool and really admirable as well...not to mention the truly unique works of art that come out of the process!

The Review:

Talia sent me three small, upcycled notebooks to review. Made from recycled vinyl, thin typing paper and featuring a hemp closure - these notebooks are very pretty. What I love most about them is that they're so natural looking - very clean lines but rustic in a way. I immediately fell in love with them! When I'm not writing non-fiction articles for my clients, I'm writing fiction - and throughout the day, an idea will suddenly come to me for one element of a story or another. Usually, I jot them down somewhere and come back to them later. Well, I've started using these mini-notebooks to jot down my ideas.


I think it will be super-cool to have these little books full of inspirational thoughts and ideas, long after the ideas have transformed into stories and poems! What a neat little memento, right? The books are wonderful quality and I just love how they're so unique. I think these kinds of books would make a PERFECT gift for someone in your family who is a writer, or someone who enjoys writing their thoughts on a daily basis.

The Giveaway:

Talia was generous enough to offer 2 of these beautiful mini notebooks as a prize for one lucky 2 Lil Muffins reader! Here is the description:

A due of pocket-size blank journals: each measure approximately 4" x 6" and hold 40 sheets (80 sides) of a thin typing paper. Each book is hand sewn with hemp thread using the pamphlet stitch and can lie flat when open. Each also has an excess of hemp thread to use as a tie closure. Covers are upcycled vinyl remnants with various colors. Great for use as a simple list book to keep in your purse or a place to keep thoughts."

• How to Enter: Visit Conduit Press on Etsy and browse through her unique and beautiful items. Let me know which one is your favorite in a comment!

Extra Entries:

• Follow this blog publicly or let me know if you already are. (1 extra entry)

• Heart Conduit Press on Etsy. (1 extra entry)

• Purchase an item from Conduit Press and let me know which item you've purchased. (10 extra entries)

• Follow me on twitter and tweet this giveaway. Can be done daily. (2 extra entries)

• Put my button in your sidebar and leave the link, or let me know if you already have it. (3 extra entries)

• Subscribe to 2 Lil Muffins via email and confirm. (2 extra entries)

Good luck to all!! This contest will end on March 16, 2010 at 8PM EST and the winner will be chosen by Random.org. Remember to leave a comment for each entry so they all count when the winner is chosen. Also - leave your email address if it's not public in your profile.

Note: I was sent an item free of charge in order to make a review about this shop and its products. I was not monetarily compensated in any way, and the opinions expressed in this post are 100% mine and honest.

Child's Room Painting of Your Choice Giveaway (CLOSED)

I think a child's room should be special - it's their getaway, a little place belonging to them! They should be surrounded by images and items they love and that comfort them. That's why I'm excited about The Ivy Lane on Etsy and this giveaway!


Amy is an incredibly nice and very talented woman. This artist is also a Michigan mommy of three! **Where does she find the time to paint?** If she's anything like me, a lot of her work is done to the sound of snoring. ;-) Her shop is filled with beautiful paintings for little boys and girls rooms - and she loves customizing paintings for her customers.



So, if you have bedding or other decor in your child's room that you'd like a painting to match, Amy is your gal! Just let her know what you need and she'll fix it right up for you. Amy has generously offered one painting for 2 Lil Muffins readers - your choice! How exciting!!!

How to Enter:

Visit The Ivy Lane on Etsy and browse through the beautiful paintings there. Let me know which one you'd choose if you win the contest!

Extra Entries:

• Heart The Ivy Lane shop on Etsy. (1 extra entry)

• Purchase any item from The Ivy Lane shop - maybe get started on a collection!! Come back here and let me know what you purchased. (10 extra entries)

• Follow this blog publicly. (1 extra entry)

• Follow me on twitter and tweet this giveaway. Can be done daily. (1 extra entry)

• Enter any of the giveaways over at Champagne Wisdom and let me know which one. (2 extra entries)

• Follow my partner Yona's blog publicly for excellent giveaway news, reviews, and thoughts. (2 extra entries)

• Grab my button and put it on your blog sidebar. - leave me a link! (3 extra entries)

Good luck all! This contest is open to US and Canadian residents only and will end March 14, 2010 at 8PM EST. The winner will be chosen by Random.org. Have a great time winning this beautiful item and let your friends and family know about 2 Lil Muffins!

Old School Leather Co. Review and Leather Barrette Giveaway (CLOSED)

In addition to my love of jewelry, I also love hair accessories and other accessories like bags, shoes...the typical things that make the eyes of a woman sparkle! That's why I was so excited to come across Old School Leather Co. They're a smaller company - the perfect kind, because you know you're being dealt with by real people! The owners, Scott and Jami, were so nice and they're amazingly talented.

Their story is so touching and sweet, that I got a little teary-eyed when reading it! The husband and wife team took their individual talents and artistic abilities (and a little inspiration from Scott's mom and dad) and made an entire business. They have some of the most gorgeous leather items, too! I MUST have the purse you see below.

Scott and Jami sent me a hand-tooled leather barrette to review, and they were awesome enough to include a bit of leather with the individual tools stamped on it so I could see how the process worked. Wow - all I can say is those guys put a LOT of love and care (and work!) into their pieces.



What I love so much about the barrette is that one of my favorite ways to wear my hair is in a ponytail...which can get pretty boring after a while. This barrette instantly dresses up the pony tail and can be used to create gorgeous french twists and half-ponytails. Plus - BONUS - it goes with absolutely everything!

It's so simple to use, too and looks really elegant and cute. I am in love with this barrette and I have a feeling I'm going to be shopping at Old School Leather Co. for holidays and birthdays, because I've gotten several compliments on it...especially when I revealed that it was completely handmade! One of you lucky readers is going to win your very own hand-tooled barrette from Old School Leather Co.

How to Enter: Visit Old School Leather Co's website and look through their gorgeous creations. Then, come back here and let me know what your favorite is!

Extra Entries:

• Follow this blog publicly. (1 Extra Entry)

• Make a Purchase from Old School Leather Co's website and let me know what it was! (10 Extra Entries)

• Follow me on twitter and tweet this giveaway. Can be done daily, please leave the link. (1 Extra Entry)

• Subscribe to 2 Lil Muffins via email and confirm. (1 Extra Entry)

• Put my button on your blog and leave the link. (2 Extra Entries)

By the way, if you have any special occasions coming up, give your loved ones the gift of a handmade leather item from Old School Leather Co. They're absolutely sure to be thrilled, and you will be supporting handmade - a win-win situation!

This contest will end March 6, 2010 at 8PM EST and the winner will be chosen by Random.org. Please remember to leave a comment for each entry so each one counts when the winner is chosen, and to leave your email address in your comments if it's not available on your public profile.

I was sent an item at no charge to review, but was not monetarily compensated in any way for my review. My opinions are 100% honest and mine!

Robin's Egg Blue Necklace Giveaway (CLOSED)

Discovering different artists is a fabulous part of keeping up with this blog, and I'm a sucker for unique and vintage-inspired jewelry - so when I saw the items available on Botanical Bird on Etsy, I immediately became interested. The seller, Cyd, is obviously very talented with an eye for color and creating unique designs. She has generously offered to answer some questions for me and she has a fabulous item that one of you lucky readers is going to win!

Interview:

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

Well lets see, my birth name is Cynthia, which I changed to Cyndy and then about 6 years ago, changed to Cyd, which is what I go by now. So, I guess my name keeps getting shorter, who knows, I may eventually end up with just "C". (lol) I am a lover of all things nature related, I adore gardening, bird watching and just being outdoors as much as possible. I currently live in a forested area of Portland, Oregon, where it's very green and beautiful! I have also lived in both Arizona and Alaska. I am a long time self taught artist, I have worked with various mediums, including watercolor painting, tile/glass mosaics and now jewelry.



2. How long have you been designing jewelry?

I have been making jewelry really since I was a kid, I use to make beaded earrings and necklaces with my Mom. I got more serious about it 2 years ago when I opened my etsy shop. When I first opened my shop I was also running my gardening business, so I had 2 businesses going at the same time for awhile. After one year of selling on etsy, I was able to discontinue my gardening business and make jewelry full time, which was really great.

3. Where does your inspiration come from?

I get my inspiration from Nature, always nature! I am continually amazed by the natural world, and love nothing more than spending time being totally immersed in a rain forest, and seeing the abundance of life there, really love that!



4. Do you have a favorite piece?

Not really, but I am fond of the "Blue meadow Necklace" which is a newer design of mine.

5. What is the coolest thing about Botanical Bird designs?

The coolest thing, I would have to say is that by having my shop, it has allowed me to meet many online friends, which is really sweet, and it has also afforded me a certain amount of freedom in my life, and really what artist doesn't love that?

I love Cyd's shop - it's absolutely packed full of unique designs that are striking and bold, and very reminiscent of nature. I could close my eyes, choose an item and know that I'd be happy with it, no matter which one I chose - her stuff is that good! Today, Cyd has so generously offered to give one of you a beautiful piece from her shop.

The Giveaway:

"Here is a lovely Vintage Inspired Necklace, featuring two gorgeous creamy blue Amazonite beads, reminiscent of robin's eggs, along with a brass swallow, an antiqued gold leaf, and a tiny Czech glass flower bead, all on a delicate antiqued gold brass chain."



How to Enter: Visit Botanical Bird on Etsy, and let me know what your favorite item is.

Extra Entries:

• Follow this blog publicly. (1 Extra Entry.)

• Become a fan of Botanical Bird on Facebook and leave a message on her wall, letting her know 2 Lil Muffins sent you. (2 Extra Entries.)

• Follow 2 Lil Muffins on twitter and Botanical Bird on twitter. (2 Extra Entries.)

• Tweet about this giveaway and leave the link. Can be done daily. (1 Extra Entry.)

• Grab my button and leave me the link to where it's at. (1 Extra Entry.)

• Purchase an item from the Botanical Bird shop on Etsy and let me know what you purchased. (10 Extra Entries.)

That's it!! What a beautiful necklace - perfect to keep for yourself or give to a very lucky friend. Remember to leave a comment for each entry so each one counts when the winner is generated. Also remember to leave your email address in your comment if it's not available on your profile! This contest will end March 5, 2010 at 8pm EST and the winner will be chosen by Random.org. Good luck!

My Family Ties Review and Gerbera Daisy Clips Giveaway (CLOSED)

My kids wear uniforms to school, so everyone is dressed in the exact same thing. Because we can't use clothing and clothing styles to do it, we have to establish our individuality a little bit differently.

My daughter prefers cute hair clips, jewelry and accessories that really express her personality - that's why I was thrilled for her to try out some handmade hair accessories from My Family Ties on Etsy. I'd love to tell you how we enjoyed them - and to give you a chance to win some of your own! But first...



About the Designer:

My name is Brandi. I'm a 35 year old mom to a 3 year old little girl and a wife to a great guy! I come from a wildly creative family with people who can do everything from draw and paint to sew and arrange floral pieces. I have been making childrens' hair accessories for a bit over a year. While this is relatively new to me I love doing it!



I draw, cut, and stitch everything by hand. My inspiration comes from all things kid related...story books, coloring books, characters, and lots of suggestions from people who ask "can you do this in felt?". My favorite things change constantly but I am rather fond of the Birthstone Flower clips right now.



These are my sister's creations which leads me to what I think is great about our shop ~ we are 3 generations of women who each have something unique to bring to the shop. Our shop keeps us in touch on a weekly, even daily basis. I love that my middle sister and I have developed a common ground and that we keep each other motivated :)

The Review:

I LOVE that this family is doing this together - and creating some truly adorable accessories in the process. Brandi was so nice and responded so quickly when I contacted her about doing a giveaway! She sent us two of the beautiful Gerbera Daisy flower clips. The first thing I noticed about them was how soft they are! Usually, clips and hair accessories will irritate my daughter after a day of wearing them and she's ready to yank them out as soon as she gets home from school, but not these! You can see her wearing one of them below:



I also noticed that they held a lot better than some of the other clips we have - which is good because it keeps the hair in place and looks great all day. My little girl was in love with these clips - and she wanted to see the other ones available! There are tons, by the way, so we'll be doing some shopping tonight! These clips are a definite winner.

The Giveaway:

Brandi has generously offered to send one of you lucky readers a set of two of your very own Gerbera Daisy clips. You're going to L.O.V.E. them! Each one is sketched out by hand, cut and then hand-stitched. Brandi and her family are so talented!



How to Enter: (Note: You MUST be following this blog publicly in order to enter.) Browse through the My Family Ties shop and let me know what your favorite accessory is.

Extra Entries:

• Heart the Family Ties Shop. (1 Extra Entry.)

• Purchase Something from the Shop and Let Me Know What You Bought! (5 Extra Entries.)

• Subscribe to this blog via email. (1 Extra Entry.)

• Follow me on twitter and tweet this giveaway. (2 Extra Entries.)

• Comment on any post here that is NOT a giveaway. (1 Extra Entry.)

That's it!! This contest will end March 3, 2010 at 8PM EST and the winner will be chosen with Random.org. Note: Please make sure you leave a comment for each entry so each one counts, and include your email address if it's not available in your public profile. Thanks!

I was sent an item at no charge to review, but was not monetarily compensated in any way for my review. My opinions are 100% honest and mine!

Moonrise Eco-Friendly Jewelry Review and Giveaway (CLOSED)

I do a significant amount of work for blogs and companies that are eco-friendly, so whenever I get the chance to review a product that is created with the environment in mind, it's a joy. When that product is sparkling, beautiful jewelry - I'm even more thrilled! I've recently gotten to know a bit about Moonrise, an eco-friendly jewelry company, and I'm so excited to talk to you all about it!

Having been featured on The Today Show and Lucky Magazine, among others, Moonrise is a women-owned company that places priority on fair trade materials, recycled materials, and ethically-obtained materials. What does this mean for you and me? It means we can wear this beautiful jewelry, knowing that it hasn't harmed the environment and that the individuals who provided the gemstones, metals and beads have been fairly compensated for their work. I don't know about you, but that makes me feel pretty darn good!

Every piece of jewelry is handmade in the Moonrise studio, based on the eastern shore of Virginia. I have to tell you - this company has some of the most stunning jewelry I've seen - absolutely PERFECT for gifts and for when you deserve a little treat of your own. Liz, the founder and principal designer, is so talented and friendly. She recently sent me a pair of Jupiter earrings to review and I'd like to share my thoughts with you.

The Review:

The first thing I'll tell you is that the packaging the earrings came in is gorgeous! Anyone receiving a gift of Moonrise jewelry is going to be impressed...

I love this box - and it was beautifully wrapped in an elegant ribbon. Then, on the inside...

They say presentation is everything. Well, Moonrise already gets a 10 in that department! The gift box is absolutely gorgeous and I would be proud to give anyone a gift from Moonrise Jewelry. But, the packaging is only a small aspect, because the jewelry inside is truly what makes you swoon!

Can I just say - look at the gorgeous detail on the small silver beads and dividers!!! These Jupiter earrings are made from recycled glass, with fair trade fine silver links and sterling silver ear wires. I am absolutely in love with these earrings.

At first, I was a bit worried because they looked like they would be super-heavy, but they're not at all! They're just heavy enough to create that beautiful dangling when you move, and they really catch the eye and sparkle in the light. I wore these earrings to a large family dinner and received numerous comments and a request to borrow them!! Also, it was fun to tell people that they were made from recycled glass, because everyone was pretty impressed with that.

Here is something I really L.O.V.E. about Moonrise Jewelry - you can purchase pieces that coordinate perfectly! I am determined to get my hands on this Diamond Head necklace to match my earrings, and this matching bracelet is gorgeous too! If you have a birthday or special occasion coming up, drop by the Moonrise Jewelry shop and pick up something that will be cherished for many, many years to come.

Guess what...Liz has generously offered to send one of you your very own treasure from Moonrise Jewelry - a beautiful pair of recycled glass and fair trade silver Cherrystone Earrings - one of their most popular sellers!

You will cherish these if you keep them for yourself, and if you'd rather use them as a wonderful gift, the recipient will be thrilled!!

• How to Enter (Mandatory): Visit Moonrise Jewelry and browse through their gorgeous collection of items. Let me know what your absolute favorite is!

Extra Entries:

• Follow this blog publicly. (1 extra entry.)

• Become a fan of Moonrise Jewelry on Facebook. Leave a comment on the wall telling them 2 Lil Muffins sent you. (2 extra entries.)

• Sign up for Moonrise Jewelry's newsletter. (2 extra entries.)

• Subscribe to 2 Lil Muffins via email - over to the right of this post. (1 extra entry.)

• Enter any of the giveaways over at Champagne Wisdom and let me know which one. (1 extra entry.)

• Follow me on Twitter and tweet this giveaway. Can be done daily. Example "Win a pair of Moonrise Jewelry recycled glass Cherrystone earrings - http://tinyurl.com/ychoy4q" (2 extra entries.)

• Purchase an item from Moonrise Jewelry's store and let me know which one. (10 extra entries.)

Good luck, ladies!! This contest will end March 3, 2010 and the winner will be chosen by Random.org. Just a little note: make sure you leave a comment for each entry so it will be counted when the winner is chosen. Also, if your email address isn't present in your profile, please make sure you leave it in at least your first comment!

I was sent an item at no charge to review, but was not monetarily compensated in any way for my review. My opinions are 100% honest and mine!

Rosebud Lips Ethereal Beauty Rosebud Headband Giveaway (CLOSED)

Wow. I have found an absolutely fabulous shop called Rosebud Lips on Etsy. The seller, Lauren, is so nice - she didn't hesitate a bit when I told her I'd love to do a giveaway with her! She's a stay-at-home mommy of a precious baby girl and she is amazingly talented.

Every single one of Lauren's headbands and necklaces are so feminine and pretty, and many of the head clips can also double as brooches! Most of the headbands can be worn by adults or children - which would be fabulous for me since my little girl steals all of my hair things and jewelry anyway!

About the Designer:

Rosebud Lips. That's the nickname that my mom gave me when I was a little girl, and then my daughter (her grand-daughter). All three generations shared the Rosebud Lips. I have always been creative, and learned to sew at a young age. I was taught by my grandmother (Nana) and my mom (Tama). I have always loved fashion, and at a young age moved to New York City. I had the opportunity to intern for designer Cynthia Rowley, which was an amazing experience.


To tell you why I became a designer would have to be because of my sweet memories of being a little girl (about 4) and dancing around in my Nana's silk bed sheets (my cape), adorned with her costume jewelry. I felt like a princess. My Nana has collected jewelry from my family generations back, and I felt like each piece had a story. This inspired me to use antiques in my pieces. I love textures, antiques, fabric and jewelry.


Together, these form my concepts for my collection-- Making every woman feel beautiful I started the company in 2009, shortly after my mom passed away from Cancer. She was my best friend, and my biggest supporter. She was an artist herself, and she told me to follow my dreams and be creative. This motivated me to leave the marketing/PR world that I worked in for over 5 years. She has changed the course of my life, and I'm so excited for what the future holds.



Set Hope Free is a project that I'm so passionate about. It's about redeeming women who have been held captive and have been sold into slavery. Human trafficking doesn't just happen in other countries, but in our cities. Every item that is sold through Rosebud Lips contributes to a care package that is being sent to help these women reclaim their dignity. To make them feel beautiful again. My heart desires to set hope free among these women and children. To bring awareness of trafficking, so that we may protect our loved ones, and rescue those that have been enslaved. To learn more, go to www.iamchange.org and see what we are doing. Thanks so much, Lauren

I am absolutely in love with the beautiful accessories at Rosebud Lips, and you MUST check out the bridal items available! Everything there is so pretty and sweet. What Lauren does for the above organization is both noble and inspirational as well! Lauren has offered to give one of you lucky readers your very own Ethereal Beauty Rosebud Headband. (below) I love. this. headband!!

• How to Enter: Visit Rosebud Lips on Etsy and browse through the absolutely beautiful collection of headbands, clips and jewelry. Come back here and tell me what your favorite is!

Extra Entries:

• Follow this blog publicly. (1 Extra Entry)

• Follow Rosebud Lips on Twitter. (1 Extra Entry)

• Follow Me on Twitter. (1 Extra Entry)

• Follow Rosebud Lips on Facebook. (1 Extra Entry)

• Subscribe to this blog via email. (2 Extra Entries)

• Heart the Rosebud Lips Shop on Etsy. (2 Extra Entries)

• Purchase something from the Rosebud Lips Shop on Etsy. (10 Extra Entries)

• Put my button on your blog, and leave me the link. (3 Extra Entries)

This contest will end February 17, 2010 at 8PM Est and the winner will be chosen by Random.org. Please don't forget to leave a comment for each entry so every one of them counts. Also, leave me your email address in your comments if it's not available in your profile. Good luck everyone!