Infant/Toddler Easter Bunny Costume from CostumeDiscounters.com {Review}

Considering the amount of fun that kids have dressing up in their Halloween costumes, don't you think more holidays should involve wearing fun outfits? There would be more interest in Presidents' Day if children put on full costumes of our nation's leaders, wouldn't there?

I know that around here the excitement about Easter went up about 200% when the Easter Bunny debuted with extra cuteness this year:

The Lil Bunny Infant Toddler Costume from Costume Discounters comes complete with a lined body, slip-on booties, separate hood with floppy ears and even a soft plush carrot. And, by the picture, you can see just how darn cute it all is when it's put together.

Available in sizes from 6 months to 2T, I was impressed with the softness and high quality of this bunny outfit, from head to toe. The body zips open and closed up the back but also includes snaps on the legs for easy access to diaper changes, a must-have for bunnies on the go. The oversized booties have a non-skid bottom and elastic similar to socks to keep them on - which, for the most part, they did.

Big Sister E and I had a discussion about how the tail on the Lil Bunny Infant Toddler Costume could have been more cottontail-looking (instead of being round and fluffy, it resembles a dog's short tail) but that doesn't take away from the overall cuteness of this look.

Little Sister B was happy and comfortable in her costume and only seemed to have issues when the hood, weighted in the front by the charming face, slid forward and covered her eyes:
She could still peek out from underneath, however, and only tugged on the ears to try to do some adjustments a few times. Also, I grabbed an extra pair of her socks that were lying nearby and, after sticking them in the back of the hood, it stayed up and out of her face just fine. The extra room would be perfect for using this costume for a chilly Halloween because a warm hat would fit underneath easily and comfortably.

As well as being adorable and well-made, this Lil Bunny Infant Toddler Costume sells on Costume Discounters for the lowest price you'll find online - guaranteed! Their Low Price Guarantee ensures that if you find the same costume for less elsewhere, they'll not only match it but take an extra 20% off. Considering a cute outfit like this one could be used for Easter, Halloween and the sweetest spring pictures, you could really get your money's worth.

Whether you are searching for Easter Bunny Costumes, Halloween or dress-up outfits for adults or children or just the perfect wig, Costume Discounters has it all. She's too big now, but Little Sister B would definitely have been adorable in the Infant Monkey See, Monkey Doo with Banana Romper (at left). Is there a holiday coming up that involves monkey costumes? There should be!

Thanks, Costume Discounters, for providing a site that is fun to browse while saving everyone money. With all of the themes, characters and costumes offered, it's hard to pick a favorite! And, even though you won't be bringing me mail on Easter you're still appreciated, so thanks, Mail Carrier.

(Other than the Lil Bunny Costume that I was sent from Costume Discounters, I was not provided with anything or enticed to do this review in any way. This review is solely my opinion of this company and their adorable products.)

SmartShield Self Tanner Lotion with SPF 15 {Review}

Ah, high school. There are some aspects (okay, lots) that I look back on and just shake my head. What was I thinking? The look had to be just right, didn't it? Those clothes, the specific shoes, that makeup (was glitter really popular at your school, too? I sure hope it wasn't just me) and that's not even taking into account the tans.

I don't remember the first time I went to a tanning salon with my friends, but it definitely wasn't the last. We went regularly to keep a nice glow and then, whenever a school dance was nearing, the frequency increased and by the time the big event rolled around, our skin was bronzed and beautiful.

There isn't really anything I can do now to reverse the amount of damage I may have done and all of the wrinkles I'm sure I caused, so instead I try to do a better job of protecting myself from the sun's ultraviolet rays. My new favorite way? SmartShield's Self Tanner with SPF 15.

Combining the best of both worlds, this innovative lotion protects, hydrates and moisturizes your skin while building a natural, healthy glow - definitely something I would rather have than the extremely pale look I have after this long winter. The oil-free formula contains Vitamins A, C and E and Aloe Vera to soothe and smooth your skin and uses DHA to cause the body to produce melanin and create a natural, safe tan.

I love the idea of my skin naturally and safely tanning itself rather than being dyed or stained as with traditional self tanning lotions - forget the worry about turning orange or having some spots look different than others. SmartShield's Self Tanner with SPF 15 absorbs and dries quickly and doesn't leave any greasiness behind, something that is pretty important if I'm going to use it on my face.

In fact, I have used this lotion on my face for quite a few days now and it hasn't clogged my pores or left me feeling shiny at all. Instead, I can detect a soft glow that makes it appear that I don't spend my days inside hidden away from the sunlight. I also tried putting the Self Tanner on just one of my arms to really see if it was making a difference and found that it truly did. The one arm looked as though it had spent time outdoors while the other stayed in!

SmartShield really has invented a "smarter sunscreen" with their Self Tanner with SPF 15. It is light, waterproof, eco-friendly (why rub harsh chemicals into your skin?) and keeps your skin protected from both UVB and UVA rays while still giving you a sun-kissed look. I'm able to satisfy the part of my brain that is still in high school and thinks a tan is beautiful while the logical part of my mind knows the importance of being smart and safe in the sun.

Thanks, SmartShield, for not only having a line of safe, hypoallergenic, dermatologist-approved sunscreens, but for adding in a natural self tanner to appeal to pale people like me. And, for bringing the sunshine with you as you come down my block, thanks, Mail Carrier.

(Other than the SmartShield Self Tanner with SPF 15 that I was sent, I was not provided with anything or enticed to do this review in any way. This review is solely my opinion of this product and the difference it made on my blinding whiteness.)

Misikko Hana Professional Flat Iron Review

Sometimes I find it funny to think about the amount of time I used to spend getting my hair ready before leaving the house. My hair is thick, coarse and stubborn and leaving it naturally curly would have been the easy route... but no, I would stand there with my cheap flat iron (after making sure every strand was completely dry) and go over and over until everything was smooth.

That wasn't the end though, of course not. Then I had to use my curling iron to get some ends to flip out and some to flip under and the shorter, bang-like pieces to be placed just right... ahh, those were the days.

Now? Now I have somewhere in the range of 10 to 15 minutes to get showered, dressed and ready to go from start to finish before the natives get too restless around here. Just the time it takes for my flat iron to heat up would be too long, not to mention the actual straightening.

Until, of course, I tried a REAL flat iron. Until I tried the Hana Professional Flat Iron 1" - Pink Edition from Misikko.


If you've never visited Misikko, you're missing out on an amazing collection of professional styling tools and beauty products available from the top names in the business. From hair dryers to curling irons to makeup, everything you need is in one place to help you find the right salon tools and products at the right prices.

But, back to flat irons. Where to go for CHI flat irons for sale? Misikko has them and they're even on sale. How about a BaByliss Flat Iron? Misikko has those too, from ultra-thin to Titanium. Don't worry if you're not a flat iron connoisseur though, they also have a Best Flat Iron page with recommendations broken down into sections so that you can find the right one for your hair texture, length and needs.

As for the Hana Professional Flat Iron 1" - Pink Edition, I knew that my hair would really put it to the test. Just unpacking the box was fun, as Misikko includes a large amount of extras along with the flat iron - a bottle of Hana ShineShield Thermal Protectant, a heat-proof silicone mat and storage pouch (perfect for travel) and many more small goodies!

At first glance, the features that I loved about this Hana Flat Iron before I had even touched it to my hair were the adjustable temperature dial, no-slip handle and that it could be used on damp hair. No more making sure to wash my hair hours before straightening it or attempting to avoid frizz with a hair dryer, I was now able to go from damp to dry with one great item!

With my thick hair, I need a flat iron that really heats up in order to have any results and the Hana Professional does just that. In the past I've found that my flat irons either can't flatten out my curls and I have to go over each section multiple times or they feel as though they are sizzling my locks and burning off the ends.

However, even with my hair being a little damp, the Hana Professional glided right over each section and left it smooth and shiny. It was easy to start with the bottom layers and, with a twist of my wrist, give them a little flip out and then move on to the top layers and turn them under. In only a few short minutes, I was finished and could put the flat iron down on the heat-proof mat and not worry that my counter would be damaged.

After using this flat iron, I am so happy with how my hair looks and feels that I have a hard time not continually running my fingers through it! The ceramic-tourmaline plates self-adjust to my hair and really smooth each follicle to leave it looking sleek and conditioned for the rest of the day.

After years of using cheap flat irons that never really did the job, I can understand why just going with a professional one makes much more sense. The Hana Professional Flat Iron 1" - Pink Edition is truly a luxury styling tool and the difference is huge. Retailing for $204.99, this flat iron is on sale at Misikko for $119.99... which is probably LESS than the total amount I've spent replacing junky flat irons over the years.

Whether you are looking for a high-quality hair dryer, curling iron or flat iron, Misikko carries the brands and styles that will far out-perform the competition. Considering the amount of use that these items get, it's worth having the best!

Thanks, Misikko, for giving me a way to combine 3 steps (blow drying, straightening and curling) all into 1 and leave my hair glossy and smooth. And, for always looking professional and styled in your little truck, thanks, Mail Carrier.

(Other than the flat iron and bonus goodies that I was sent from Misikko, I was not provided with anything or enticed to do this review in any way. This review is solely my opinion of this great product and the difference it can make for your hair)

HABA Toys Review: Inventive Playthings for Inquisitive Minds

Chances are that if you know anything about eco-friendly children's toys around the world, you know the name HABA.

Recipients of almost every toy award that exists, HABA offers furniture, toys and accessories for children of all ages to help them learn and grow. Enjoy bath time with bright and entertaining Bath Accessories, create and imagine with Discovery Blocks and love and pretend with their gorgeous collection of Dolls.

For the child learning to walk, there are an array of colorful Walker Wagons to help them take those first steps... and once that momentous occasion has occurred, there are adorable Pulling Toys to encourage them to keep on going. Little Sister B is to the point where she will take a few steps in between places or people, but hasn't found the drive to really walk yet. As soon as she fully understands the mechanics, I know she is going to be excited to discover how much fun she can have strolling with HABA's Ducky Duck Pulling Animal.

First thing in the morning, Big Sister E likes to take Ducky Duck for a walk.

I think it helps both of them prepare for the day.

A nice change from the usual dime-a-dozen plastic toys, Ducky Duck is constructed out of beech wood, colorfully stained orange and yellow and even has a little feathery blue tuft on the top of its head. Simply grab hold of the pulling string and it is ready to waddle along on whatever adventure your child is imagining.

In her mind, Big Sister E has walked Ducky Duck to the store, to the doctor's office, to the beach and more. She really loves the way that the sound changes when Ducky Duck moves from the carpet to the hardwood floor, giving a cute thump-thump, thump-thump waddling noise.

Even without walking, Little Sister B has also experienced a lot of fun with this toy, pushing it around and flipping it over and over. She has even crawled along behind Ducky Duck and nudged it forward to bring it with to her destination - this is definitely an entertaining toy that spans multiple ages!

When it comes time to sit and have some hand-held fun, however, Little Sister B turns to the HABA Larum Clutching Toy.

She was so excited to grab and play with this, she had it out of the box and was shaking it before I could even get the tags off!

Designed to be easily held by little hands, the red ring in the middle of the Larum draws curious fingers while the wooden ends move on an elastic band and have kept both Little Sister B and Big Sister E curious and interested in the various directions that this toy can move and rattle.

Both the Larum Clutching Toy and the Ducky Duck Pulling Animal represent the high quality and attention to detail that make each and every one of HABA's approximately 1500 items unique and fun. No plastic, no music, no flashing lights, just natural materials treated with nontoxic stains and finishes and run by imagination and kid-power alone.

Found around the world (in over 50 countries! I'm sure there's a store near you!) HABA has made life a little more fun and child-friendly for all of us, no matter the age, ability or particular interests of each child. There really is something for everyone and you can be assured that whatever you select will be imaginative, support development, promote eco-friendly and green practices and be a welcome addition as a gift or for your own child.

Thanks, HABA, for your huge variety of superior, distinct toys that delight children from all ends of the earth and for being such a wonderful, environmentally-friendly company. From your geothermal energy to your use of solar power and timber suppliers that are reforesting, you're really doing your part to make the world a better place. And, for the way that you provide quality service day in and day out by delivering such great toys, thanks, Mail Carrier.

(Other than the information, Ducky Duck Pulling Animal and Larum Clutching Toy that I was sent, I was not provided with anything or enticed to do this review in any way. This review is solely my opinion of this company and their great products.)

CitiBlocs Review: Build Anything!

Every so often, I try to go through the toys in my daughters' play room and weed out the ones that aren't played with anymore. Some have just lost their appeal, others have ended up ignored and then there are the toys that have just been outgrown.

I have dreams of filling the room with only the best of the best, toys that are classic and timeless and encourage creativity, curiosity and imagination. Things that will help them learn the skills that all children need, like patience, how to share and problem-solve... and all the while allowing for either individual or group play. And let's not forget fun, of course, it's always important for toys to be fun.

The item that comes to mind first as meeting all of the above criteria and more? Our newest favorite, CitiBlocs.


At first glance, CitiBlocs appear to be pretty plain wooden blocks. Not thick or square like most, but longer and thinner, measuring about 4.5 x 1 x .25" each. When I dumped them out on the table, I wondered what would make these into an amazingly-popular, multiple award-winning toy.

What I found was that sometimes all it takes is one simple concept that can lead to hours of entertainment. The particular size of each block has been carefully selected, as its ratio is fundamental in allowing it to be used in any direction and work perfectly to build to vast heights and dimensions. Forget using glue, snaps, connectors or magnets, CitiBlocs work purely by the forces of balance, gravity and imagination.

Big Sister E and I began small by building basic towers, laying the blocks out flat to make roads and standing them on end to resemble trees. As CitiBlocs are recommended for ages 3 and up, she was a little on the young side for having the coordination to make anything intricate, but that was completely okay with both of us.

Never once did Big Sister E get frustrated or complain, which was an amazing feat and truly showed how CitiBlocs are appropriate for any skill level. She continued constructing right next to me, content to collaborate with me or work on her own creation while I tried my hand at some of the designs in the included instruction book.

I was amazed at just how easy it was to handle and build with these blocks, as they stack flat or on their side or standing up much nicer than I had expected, considering they are only .25" thick. It really did make a difference that they are precision cut and all the same because it made constructing with them a breeze.

Once I had my car finished, I think both Big Sister E and I were officially BIG fans of CitiBlocs. The possibilities are endless and the idea that my daughters can pull these out anytime and anywhere (all that's needed is a flat surface) to build whatever they might dream of... well, that just makes me happy.

The other aspects of CitiBlocs that I love make up a pretty long list. The fact that they are safe, non-toxic and durable means that I don't have to worry about my girls playing with them. And, because CitiBlocs are cut from Grade A Radiata Pine from certified renewable forests in New Zealand, I can feel good that they are a green product.

Finally, there is extensive list of attributes that CitiBlocs help to teach. As well as the skills I mentioned, just by building children learn logical thinking, balance and counter-balance, symmetry, mathematics, fine-motor skills and end up with feelings of discovery, confidence and accomplishment. What parent wouldn't want to encourage those?

Did I mention that CitiBlocs are also affordable? The starter set of 52 that we received retails for $15. However, trust me that you'll want more, because the whole family can truly get in on playing with these together. CitiBlocs also sell in sets of 100, 200, 300, 500 or 1000 (just imagine what you could build!) and have recently been introduced in boxes of 54 that contain two color options. I'm having a hard time deciding whether I would like to get the Turquoise & Green or the Blue & Red first!

No matter if your child is a budding architect or just likes to have fun, CitiBlocs are for all ages and capabilities. The whole family can spend time together or work individually and, most importantly, there's no wrong way to play. As for me, I'm checking out the Photo Gallery of CitiBlocs creations to get ideas for my next construction...


Thanks, CitiBlocs, for creating an amazing toy. No matter which way you look at them, these blocks are inspirational, entertaining and a whole lot of fun. And, for always stacking my mail in pretty symmetrical towers, thanks, Mail Carrier.

(Other than the information and set of CitiBlocs that I was sent, I was not provided with anything or enticed to do this review in any way. This review is solely my opinion of this innovative and unique product and its long list of benefits.)

Mail Delivery: Mandy and Pandy Play Sports Book Review

It's hard to know what kind of book will interest my daughters. Sometimes when I think I've found one that has great pictures and a good story, they'll get bored and squirm to get away. Other times, when I feel like I have to drag myself through a monotonous tale, they're riveted. Something that they are guaranteed to enjoy, however, is a book that is unique, different and fun.


The bright, clear illustrations on the cover of Mandy and Pandy Play Sports caught Big Sister E's attention right away and she was immediately clamoring to read this book. After the three of us were settled and we turned to the first page, I noticed a curious look on her face. Following her eyes, I could see what she was questioning. "Those are called Chinese characters. They are a different kind of letter, instead of A, B, C."

After a small discussion about different cultures was out of the way, the girls and I read through this book and had a great time following Mandy and Pandy on their adventure through playing sports with their friends. The whimsical and colorful illustrations continued and the simple, easy story kept both of my daughters engaged and happy. If anything, they were disappointed when we reached the last page!

As well as English and Chinese, the story is also written in pinyin (the phonetic pronunciation) so that early Chinese reading skills are taught to both children and adults. Considering I have no prior experience reading or pronouncing Chinese, we also appreciated the audio CD included with Mandy and Pandy Play Sports that showed us what it really sounded like.

Reinforcing the message that it doesn't matter if you win or lose and that it's important that you have fun and play with friends, this CD also kept my daughters' attention throughout the reading. The first time through, the book is read in English and Chinese, followed by a repetition of each line twice slowly in Chinese to practice. Finally, the story is spoken in conversational Chinese to really give the listener a chance to hear the language spoken.

Whether you have experience or a background in Chinese or not, the whole series of Mandy and Pandy books (there are six wonderful titles that retail for $12.95 each) are great for introducing the language in a relaxed, child-friendly way. The cute characters, fun adventures and simple words are entertaining and appealing to the whole family!

Thanks, Mandy and Pandy Co., for your innovative line of fun books that are not only pleasing to all ages, but cultural, too! And, for constantly providing my family and I with entertainment (except on Sundays), thanks, Mail Carrier.

(Other than the copy of Mandy and Pandy Play Sports that I was sent, I was not provided with anything or enticed to do this review in any way. This review is solely my opinion of this book, its entertaining qualities and its educational value).

The New Proactiv {Review}

What is it about infomercials that draw people in? Is it the fast pace or the upbeat host or the lure of the "If you call right now, we'll double your offer..." bargain? Or is it just the promise that this product will really do what they claim that it does that is so enticing to viewers? The thing that I always find myself wondering (aside from how I can talk my husband into realizing we need this amazing blender or juicer or mop or wall hooks) is if what they are saying is really true. Does it actually work?

Proactiv, the biggest name in acne treatment, has recently introduced an innovation (have you seen the commercials with the lovely Katy Perry and Avril Lavigne?) to their original formula by adding exclusive micro-crystal benzoyl peroxide. What does it do? This enables the new Proactiv Solution to absorb faster, penetrating into pores and combating acne quicker than ever before while leaving skin free of dryness or redness that often occurs with acne medications.

My skin has never been horrible... but it's never been fantastic either. From the time I was a teenager, I've tried a variety of different brands but still experienced breakouts so I was interested in seeing what the new Proactiv could do for me. Their Before-and-After Gallery shows men, women and teens of all ages that have found incredible results and, if you're not satisfied, they offer a full refund of the purchase price within 60 days. So, why not?


Proactiv is a 3-Step System applied to your face twice daily. Step 1: Renewing Cleanser. This oil-free, soap-free cleanser contains tiny exfoliating beads that gently work to rid your skin of any impurities that can clog your pores. I liked the way that I could feel the beads while I scrubbed my skin but that they weren't too harsh or scratchy. When rinsing the cleanser off, my face felt clean but not stripped or raw, which was nice.

I did note the warning to only use white towels after washing your face with Proactiv, as the benzoyl peroxide could bleach colored fabric - and hair! I, of course, completely ignored the message and found that the colors of my towels are still fully intact. My hair? Also the same color.

Step 2: Revitalizing Toner. This alcohol-free toner refines and purifies pores and exfoliates dead skin cells while soothing and hydrating your skin. Using a cotton ball, this toner felt cool and refreshing all over. Step 3: Repairing Treatment. This invisible medicated lotion features ultra-fine micro-crystal benzoyl peroxide to kill bacteria and penetrate pores fast. I was amazed at just how thin and smooth this disappeared into my face and appreciated that my face didn't feel greasy nor dried out.

The steps are definitely simple and the results? Pretty impressive. Again, my face didn't look like the Before shot from the picture on the right, but it did seem a little clearer and my skin was definitely renewed after using Proactiv for a few weeks. One persistent weird spot on my nose that seemed to be lingering actually went away after having been there forever and I have Proactiv to thank for that.

Proactiv Solution has a complete line of products aside from their 3-Step System. Specially formulated for acne prone skin, they have created moisturizers, sunscreens, spot treatments and body washes to help complete your skin care routine. I was able to try the Green Tea Moisturizer (smells wonderful) and the Refining Mask and really liked how hydrated and clean my face felt afterward.

In the end, I was happy with the way that the new Proactiv stood up to my test. The combination of acne medication with premier skin-care ingredients did as was promised: unclog pores, kill acne-causing bacteria, soothe inflammation and condition your skin. The 3-Step System can be ordered directly off of their website and retails for $19.95 or the Proactiv Plus Deluxe System for $29.95.

(Other than the Proactiv System samples that I was sent, I was not provided with anything or enticed to do this review in any way. This review is solely my opinion of this product and the possible results from it.)

Mail Delivery: The Return of Rainbow Brite CD Review

Sometimes I wonder if my daughters will ever read one of The Babysitter's Club books or watch an episode of Punky Brewster or have a Cabbage Patch Kids doll... or any number of other things that I remember from my childhood. Am I getting that old that all of the fun things from my youth are going to be retired, one by one, until I'm surrounded by characters that I don't recognize?


Fortunately, Rainbow Brite has returned from the 80's. Although I'm not 100% happy with the changes to her appearance (she's now much more a tween than a kid), at least she is still a positive role model for young girls with her message of courage, kindness and hope. Who wouldn't like a friend who can always be counted on to make your heart a little lighter and your world a little more colorful?

Having never heard of Rainbow Brite before, Big Sister E was pretty intrigued even just looking at the vibrant characters displayed on the activity CD we received. As we sat down at the computer, the moment the theme song began to play, she was even more interested.

What we found was an entertaining collection of games, puzzles, music, printable coloring pages, a picture maker and more that were interactive and fun. Rainbow Brite, Moonglow, Tickled Pink and all of their friends were right at the tip of our fingertips, waiting for us to come visit their world and play and learn.

Big Sister E was a little too young to be able to fully control some of the activities on her own, but the concepts for most of them were easy enough for her to understand. Whether matching pictures (similar to the game Memory) or putting together a puzzle, she had a great time discovering Rainbow Land and everything that came with it. We had an especially good time creating our own coloring pages and custom pictures - each visit resulted in a new and different piece of art!

As well as Rainbow Brite's website, there is a new line of dolls hitting stores that are sure to be popular with all her fans around the country. In Target stores now and coming soon to Toys 'R Us, your little one can bring home their own favorite Rainbow Brite character to continue the fun in person!

I wouldn't mind a pair of those boots in my size, too.

Thanks, MomSelect and Hallmark, for bringing us the opportunity to introduce Rainbow Brite to Big Sister E and her friends. She's back to spread her positive message to a whole new generation! And, even though your uniform isn't all that colorful, you still brighten my day, so thanks, Mail Carrier.

(Other than the Rainbow Brite activity CDs that I was sent from from MomSelect and Hallmark, I was not provided with anything or enticed to do this review in any way. This review is solely my opinion of these characters, this website and the activity CDs.)

Tommee Tippee Explora Drinking Cups {Review}

When Big Sister E was first really becoming a toddler and turning from an innocent, laid-back baby into her own opinionated little person, I called my mother. And apologized.

I don't have crystal clear memories from my childhood, but of the ones that stick out, I know I wasn't the easiest kid to deal with. Fortunately for me, my mom claims that she doesn't remember the same things I do... unfortunately for me, I think karma has begun to pay me back with two fairly stubborn daughters of my own.

Little Sister B is sweet and adorable and loving... and persistent. Very, very persistent. When she wants something, she goes for it. And when she doesn't want to participate in whatever you're attempting to make her do, oh, she won't do it. Therefore, every time that I've tried to get her to drink from a sippy cup, I feel like I'm fighting a losing battle. She just tosses them aside (without bringing them anywhere near her mouth) and I am left wiping up the puddles. What's a mom to do?


As luck would have it, Tommee Tippee, an award-winning, number-one brand from Great Britain, is making its way across the United States and showed up at my door just in time. From bottles to pacifiers to cups to bibs, Tommee Tippee has a wide selection for all ages and stages of children. Their array of BPA-free infant and toddler feeding products are made to ease the transition into independence at mealtime for little ones everywhere and their Explora line is just what we needed around here.

Prior to the arrival of the Tommee Tippee cups, I had tried a variety of other styles with Little Sister B in hopes that she would find one that she liked. However, it seemed as though she either had to suck too hard (something she wasn't willing to do) or drink fast enough to keep from getting showered (she's not a fan of that, either) and the combination was leading to her refusal to use a cup at all, as well as a mess everywhere.

However, Tommee Tippee's Explora cups feature their advance-flo valve, an innovative way to remain completely spill-proof and leak-proof while requiring hardly any effort to get a drink. Starting with their Stage 1 trainer for 6+ months (shown at left) and moving all the way up to a Stage 5 insulated drinking cup, Tommee Tippee's cups each have a specific spout and grip depending on the needs of each age.

The bright colors and designs immediately caught Little Sister B's eye (Big Sister E was pretty exited about them too) and she was eager for me to hand one over. After examining it and giving it a taste or two, she seemed pleased with the new arrival. For me, the fact that no matter how much she shook it or whichever direction she held it, the cup didn't spill a drop.

After trying out both the Stage 1 and Stage 2 cups for a while, we are all still happy with the results. As well as being leak-proof, I have come to appreciate the other great features that the Tommee Tippee Explora line includes. The convenient flip-top hygiene cap keeps dirt and germs away and the fact that the tops to the cups are interchangeable across all of the Stages is really handy. I love that I just toss them all in the dishwasher and don't have to worry about which pieces go together when they come out.

Tommee Tippee items are available now at Babies 'R Us (and are coming soon to Toys 'R Us) and the Explora line retails for $4.99 for a single cup and $7.99 for a pack of two. Visit their website to find out information about all of their unique products and keep up with all of the newest Tommee Tippee developments by following them on Twitter and Facebook as well.

Thanks, Tommee Tippee, for bringing your high-quality and innovative products to the United States and sponsoring a blog tour to introduce them with Mom Bloggers Club. Now when I see Little Sister B happily tossing her cup around, I can rest easy that the milk is going to stay inside. And, for braving the snow to bring the box to my front door, thanks, Mail Carrier.

(Other than the Explora cups [two Stage 1 and two Stage 2] that I was sent from Tommee Tippee due to my membership at Mom Bloggers Club, I was not provided with anything or enticed to do this review in any way. This review is solely my opinion of this company and their great products.)