Make Safety Fun with Wipeout Dry Erase Protective Gear {Review}

This post is part of a sponsored campaign for Wipeout Dry Erase Productive Gear. I received compensation for my participation, but my review and opinions are my own.

It's no secret that the words 'safety' and 'fun' aren't exactly synonymous. However, for parents everywhere there have never been any viable alternatives when it comes to the benefits of, for instance, removing cords from window coverings, keeping cleaning supplies out of reach, covering outlets, having their child wear a seat belt in the car and a helmet on their bike, etc.

Or so I thought.

Recently I was introduced to an extremely unique and individualized way to let kids customize safety helmets and pads with their own designs, making them actually want to wear each piece again and again. Genius!

That's the creativity and innovation behind Wipeout Dry Erase Protective Gear!

Made by Triple Eight — a trusted company known for safety as a leading producer of action sports protective gear since 1995 — Wipeout was created to protect children on their bikes, scooters, skateboards, roller skates, sleds, and snowboards with a creative twist.

Instead of yet another standard helmet or set of pads, Wipeout products are designed for endless customization with their included dry erase markers and stencils. Why wear a plain helmet or one that looks just like those of everyone else when kids can easily draw, wipe the designs off, create new ones, and repeat over and over again?

Imagination has no limits and that can now be applied in the world of safety gear!

Right out of the box Little Sister B was thrilled to see the the neon pink colors and the dry erase markers and could barely contain her excitement as I removed the packaging.

The Wipeout Dry Erase Helmet package includes the helmet itself, five dry erase markers in assorted neon colors, and eight stencil designs, so kids are able to start being creative immediately.

What could be better than decorating your helmet completely to your own liking? Maybe one day cover it in peace signs and flowers and the next day switch to rockets and skull-and-crossbones!

Needless to say, Little Sister B and Big Sister E got right to work on putting their own designs on our Wipeout Dry Erase Helmet and have returned to erase, draw, erase, stencil, erase, and draw some more just about every day since!

What kid would rather wear a plain helmet when they could rock something cool and awesome like this instead?

At the same time, Triple Eight didn't just create Wipeout for the fun factor, as this sturdy and stylish helmet is made of ABS hard-shell construction with an EPS liner for durability. It is certified for safety protection for all sorts of activities (e.g. biking, skateboarding, rollerskating, scooters, etc.) for kids ages 3 to 14.

As Little Sister B loves her Dry Erase Helmet, I am just as happy sending her off on her bike or scooter and knowing that she is completely safe while showing off her hip style!

As much as my little fashionista enjoys her Wipeout Dry Erase Helmet, she has been over-the-top crazy about the Wipeout Dry Erase Protective 3-Pack we also received. This set of kneepads, wrist guards, elbow pads, and two markers has been worn inside, outside, in the car... she would have worn it all day at school if I had let her (and, considering she is a bit accident-prone, that wouldn't be all that bad of an idea).

Although these three sets of pads don't provide nearly as large of a canvas in which to showcase her designs, Little Sister B has still had a great time adding smaller artwork onto just about every possible dry erase surface provided.

Wipeout makes safety fun! I can't think of a better way to make kids want to wear their helmets and safety pads than by appealing to their creative, imaginative side and providing a way for complete uniqueness. From biking to skateboarding to rollerblading (there is even a winter version of the Dry Erase Helmet that includes ear flaps and a goggle clip for sledding and snow sports!), this gear can't be beat.

Plus, to further encourage kids' creativity or simply give their artistic side a boost, Wipeout has developed a series of step-by-step photo and video tutorials as well as design printouts to inspire kids to get the most out of their Wipeout products. Talk about cool!

The Wipeout Dry Erase Helmet retails for $29.99 and is available in three sizes for ages 3+, 5+, and 8+ in black, teal, neon pink, neon yellow-green, and more. The Wipeout Dry Erase Protective 3-Pack also comes in a variety of great color options and retails for $24.99. Keep an eye out for them at your leading retailer as well as on Amazon.

Whether you are looking for a useful birthday or holiday gift or simply want to encourage your child to love their safety gear so much that they never take it off, be sure to head over to iWipeout.com (and connect with them on Facebook and Instagram) to find out much more about this incredible line of unique products.

Keep Children Safe in Your Home with Information from the Window Covering Safety Council {#CordSafety}

This post was sponsored by the Window Covering Safety Council as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.

While I would like to say that I have always made the best possible choices and decisions when it comes to my children and their safety... my guilty conscience knows that that is not 100% true.

Were their car seat straps always as very tight as possible? Is every single bookshelf, dresser and flat screen TV in our home anchored to the wall? Have they had enough sunscreen on every inch of their skin every single time they went outdoors?

I'm not the only mom with nagging questions like these, right?

But while I can work to ensure that all future straps are tightened, anchors are in place, and sunscreen is applied, what about other areas of our houses that have been largely ignored in childproofing? New parents are warned against crib bumpers, placing their infant to sleep on their stomach or having loose blankets nearby, but there are many other hazards that aren't brought up.

Case in point, the dangers of corded blinds.

Did you know that according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, corded window coverings are among the top five hidden hazards in American homes? That is exactly why the Window Covering Safety Council urges parents and caregivers to check their window coverings for exposed or dangling cords which can pose a strangulation hazard to infants and young children.

This is a topic that is so important (last month was even National Window Covering Safety Month), yet so often completely overlooked when we are thinking about the dangers in our home!

Do you have young children in a home with window coverings that have exposed or dangling cords? Then be sure to retrofit or replace them with safer products, particularly those that are cordless or have inaccessible cords. The time and cost is far outweighed by the fact that your children will be protected from this hidden danger!

Plus, to make it easier to know which window coverings are the best for your home, just look at major retailers across the country for the Best for Kids certification label. Then there will be no doubt that you are making the safest choice possible and one less thing to worry about in the endless uncertainty that is parenthood.

When we moved into our house over a decade ago, there were blinds and cords everywhere. Fortunately, we were able to do a large remodel and, in the process of replacing nearly all of the windows throughout the home, we were introduced to Between the Glass window covering options.

I can't say enough about how happy we are with having shades built right in between the panes of the windows themselves! They're protected from damage, require nearly no cleaning or maintenance, and there isn't a single cord or drape hanging from a window or sliding door in sight. Safe + convenient = love!

Although National Window Covering Safety Month has passed for the year, don't let another day go by that you don't follow these important safety measures in your own home. The Window Covering Safety Council website has all of the information that you need when it comes to checking your current window coverings, eliminating hazards, ordering free retrofit kits, and more.

For even more information and ideas on window cord safety in the home, you can also connect with the Window Covering Safety Council on Facebook and Twitter.

Going beyond Passenger Safety Week with the Britax Frontier ClickTight Harness 2-Booster {Review}

With two kids that have continually been outgrowing clothing, shoes, books, toys, and more in what seems like the blink of an eye, I sometimes feel as though I spend a great deal of time removing and replacing, removing and replacing, removing and replacing.

But wherein I may not have put a huge deal of thought into the cups that replaced the bottles or the twin beds that replaced the cribs, the same does not hold true with car seats. When it comes to replacing our infant and convertible car seats with booster seats, I have always been steadfast on having only those that are high quality, durable and 100% secure.

After all, nothing is more important than my kids' safety.

Most recently, I have been happy to be introduced to a new measure of safety for my children (as well as other kids that we often drive around) thanks to the Frontier ClickTight Harness 2-Booster from Britax.

Since its founding in Britain in 1939, Britax has been a pioneer in developing products for children that enhance safety. Now offering a full-line of premium car seats, strollers, baby carriers and accessories, there is no doubt that the Britax name is known worldwide for their commitment to thoughtful, innovative, top-quality, fully safe, intuitively designed products.

Speaking from years of experience, I can say that I'm continually impressed with the great lengths that Britax goes to in order to ensure that their products are comfortable, convenient, and provide the utmost in safety and security. Therefore, I had no doubt that the Frontier ClickTight would demonstrate nothing less than excellence!

Although car seats were recently in the national spotlight for Child Passenger Safety Week, that doesn't mean that safety should now move to the back burner simply because the week has passed. All 50 states and the District of Columbia have child safety seat laws, however, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, three out of four children are either not securely fastened in their car seats or are in a car seat that is not properly secured to the vehicle. Yikes!

Fortunately, Britax has been manufacturing their innovative ClickTight Installation System for the past two-and-a-half years to ensure that parents can properly install their child's car seat every time, in every vehicle, no matter if they are at home, traveling, sharing a seat with a babysitter or grandparents, or more.

Just open the ClickTight, buckle the seat belt across, and click the seat shut. The result is an effortless, safe, tight installation with just a click — gone are the days of shoving, kneeing, yanking, and feeling intimidated hoping that you have performed all of the necessary steps!


Can't get much easier than that, right?

Along with the incredible ClickTight Installation System, Britax includes a slew of other best-in-class safety technologies in the Frontier ClickTight, such as SafeCell Impact Protection. This integrated system of safety components includes two layers of side impact protection, a steel frame for superior strength, an impact-absorbing base, and more.

I can't imagine a parent out there who wouldn't feel a little more confident knowing that their child's car seat was secured tight and included as much protection in the event of an accident as possible!

Whether using the Britax Frontier ClickTight in the harness mode for smaller children 25 lbs (at least 2 years old) up to 90 lbs or by transitioning the seat (without having to unthread the harness) into a traditional booster once your big kid is ready (40 lbs to 120 lbs), this combination seat can truly provide peace of mind knowing your child is protected.

Even better, purchase this amazing car seat from a Brixy member store — a trade association for independent juvenile retailers in U.S. — and you can pick this beautiful, gender-neutral black/gray color combination called Dylan, which is exclusive to select Brixy stores while supplies last.

Brixy's 280-member stores are located coast-to-coast and each store's knowledgeable staff can advise parents on a wide variety of topics, including current car seat laws. Considering how important it is to select the appropriate car seat model and fit for the optimum safety for your family, it is definitely worth a trip to your local Brixy store (use their store locator to find one near you) no matter if you are preparing for your little one's arrival or have a newborn, toddler or big kid in your life.

When it comes to innovation, luxury, and the best safety and security available, Britax has the car seats, strollers, carriers, and accessories that meet all the needs of children from birth through school years reliably and comfortably. There is no doubt in my mind that this Harness 2-Booster seat will last for many years to come and, while it has a higher price tag than others on the market ($329.99 or slightly less on Amazon), the quality simply can't be beat.

To find out more about the Britax Frontier ClickTight Combination Harness 2-Booster, visit the Britax website and be sure to connect with this award-winning company on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

And remember to see just how Brixy can help with gear, installations, repairs, cleanings, and more for the child in your life by visiting Brixy.com as well as visiting them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

Other than the Frontier ClickTight I was provided by Britax and Brixy to facilitate my review, I was not compensated or enticed to do this post in any way. This review is solely my honest opinion of this product.

Protect Your Vehicle This Winter with Tips from WaterSavers {Visa Gift Card Prize Pack Giveaway}

Typically when I think about winter and everything that my family needs to do to be prepared for the frigid aspects that it entails, my mind goes to snow pants and whether or not last year's boots and mittens still have their partner.

Next, fleece blankets are brought out to wrap up in on the couch; I breathe a sigh of relief when the heater kicks in on the first try; and a glance in the cupboard lets me know whether or not we have a big enough stock of hot chocolate for each time the kids come in from playing out in the snow. What doesn't come to mind? Whether or not my car is as ready for winter as the rest of us.

Therefore, when it comes to prepping our rides for the cold, I'm thankful for tips from knowledgeable folks like the International Carwash Association (ICA) who can help me out.

There is no doubt that the number of dollars we spend each year to keep our cars running adds up. However, this is particularly evident in the winter time when the harsh elements can challenge even the most conscientious car owners. One thing is for sure though, keeping your vehicle in good condition will ensure a safer ride in the short term and a higher resale or trade-in value down the road.

So, in the midst of the cold weather sweeping the nation, ICA offers the following tips to help ensure that your vehicle is prepared to weather just about any storm!

Tips for Getting Your Car Ready For Winter:

1. A clean car is your first line of defense against winter. While the winter season typically takes a toll on your car, proper maintenance can go a long way to preserving your investment. For example, according to the International Carwash Association, getting a new wash and a fresh coat of wax before the temperature starts to fluctuate can be your first line of defense against winter elements like ice, salt, sand and slush.

Vehicular corrosion also occurs most quickly when temperatures rise and then fall below freezing. That is why most auto manufacturers recommend getting your car washed and waxed at a professional car wash twice a month, especially during the winter.

Using a WaterSavers Car Wash can is a strong first step to ensuring that your car will be ready to withstand the winter elements, both inside and out. It is also a great way to protect the environment. For example, these car washes typically use only 40 gallons (151.5 liters) or less of fresh water per car wash. Learn more and find a WaterSavers wash near you by visiting washwithwatersavers.com.

2. Rotate your tires. Most people know they should get their oil changed every 3,000 miles, but many forget their tires need maintenance as well. Tires should be rotated before winter and then again every 6,000 miles.

3. Add some winter weight to your oil. Changing your oil and filter is especially important during the winter. Drivers who live in a colder climate should consider changing to heavier, winter-weight oil during the winter months.

4. Take care of your wiper blades. Your windshield wiper blades are your first line of defense when the snow starts to fly. Make sure your wiper blades are in good, working order and replace them if you have doubts. It is better to make this change now instead of finding out your blades aren't working when you really need them.

5. Take your car in for a tune-up. Any noises, pings or sluggish starts you currently notice will only intensify as the temperature drops. It is best to get your vehicle in for a tune-up as soon as possible to get any issues addressed.

6. Give your steering some power. Check your powering steering fluid each month, and make sure the car is warmed up before you do so. If you find the level is low, look for leaks in the hoses or pump. Low power steering fluid will make your car more difficult to steer, which is something you'll want to avoid as the roads get slick.

7. Protect yourself from carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide leaks are dangerous at any time, but they are especially deadly during the winter when you will be driving your vehicle with the windows closed. Have your exhaust system checked to make sure no leak exists.

8. Apply the brakes. Besides the seatbelt, your car's brakes are its most important safety feature. This is especially true in the winter when slippery conditions can make stopping difficult. Before the first snow fall, bring your car to an experienced mechanic to verify that your brakes are ready for the season.

Cold winter temperatures mean vehicle maintenance is even more important. By following these simple tips listed above, you'll be able to ward off winter's harshest advances, protect your investment and those who ride inside of it. To learn more about protecting the value of your vehicle, be sure to visit washwithwatersavers.com!

Thanks to the generosity of ICA and WaterSavers, one person will be able to feel even more prepared for the remainder of winter as well, because...

One lucky person will win a $30 Visa gift card, a thermal travel mug, a fleece travel blanket, and a hand mitt ice scraper!

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I am working with the International Carwash Association to share these tips. However, my opinions are entirely my own and I have not been paid to publish positive comments.

Tips to Stay Warm, Stay Comfortable and Stay Safe in Your Home All Winter Long

Although we've had a few days here and there with surprisingly mild temperatures, there is no denying that winter is here and it's time to bundle up and stay indoors (unless you're one of those crazy outdoor types that actually wants to go out when it's this cold).

When snow stretches as far as I can see, the windchill is below 0°, and the outdoors basically looks like this...

...then all I want to do is burrow down under a quilt or get cozy with a book in front of the fireplace.

So, to help ensure a wonderful and cozy winter season, licensed contractor and TV home-improvement expert David Leon from Home Made Simple on the Oprah Winfrey Network has provided the following tips to help make your home as comfy as possible this season:

• Heating system and air filters – Have your heating system serviced every year and check the filters system every month. Also, inspect your system's exhaust vent for rust, damage, or any corrosion.

• Seal the leaks – Check to make sure your doors and windows are properly sealed so heat doesn't escape. Inspect caulking and weather stripping around openings for wear and tear, and replace if necessary.

• Plumbing – Busted water pipes can cause expensive damage. Take time now to wrap outside pipes that might be exposed to extreme temperatures. Review the locations for the main water and fuel shut-off valves with all members of your household.

• Have a plan – When you own a home, you know that things are going to break down – but when it happens, do you know who you’ll call or what you’ll do? A home warranty is a great way to protect your budget against costly repairs, and save yourself the time and hassle of finding a qualified professional to get major systems and appliances up and running again.

This winter, homeowners should also be aware of important warning signs and potential heating system hazards to protect their homes from any accidents. In 2011, faulty and improperly used heating equipment accounted for nearly 400 deaths nationwide, more than 53,000 fires and $893 million in direct property damage, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

To help prevent heating system hazards, be aware of the following critical signs when you're indoors this winter:

• Always be aware of gas odors. If you smell gas around your heating unit, leave the area and call your gas company immediately.

•  Be sure your pilot light is burning a steady blue flame. If it is not, call your heating professional or a gas company.

• Take a close look at your exhaust fan for any rust, damage or deterioration. If you notice any, call a qualified professional and describe what you see to determine whether a repair is needed.

Along with these warning signs, American Home Shield, the nation’s leading provider of home protection plans, reminds homeowners to use extra care when operating space heaters. For instance, they should be plugged directly into a wall outlet, never into an extension cord, and turned off at night. When in use, always be sure space heaters are a safe distance from curtains and other flammable items.

This winter, don't take any chances! Take the time to watch the helpful videos covering a variety of home maintenance tips and home heating warning signs that are hosted by David Leon and published on American Home Shield's YouTube channel. Plus, visit their informational Home Matters blog, which serves as a great resource to help homeowners balance their busy lives with tips and news on everything home.

What do you do to stay warm while staying safe during winter?

This post is part of a compensated partnership opportunity with American Home Shield, but all thoughts and opinions expressed are honest and my own.

The Importance of Kidde's Holiday Recipe for Fire Safety {Kitchen Fire Extinguisher Giveaway}

With the holiday season here, the most important thing is that we show our gratitude, love and devotion to our families while simultaneously doing good deeds, helping others and displaying goodwill towards our fellow man.

Right?

It's okay to admit it. You're also excited that this is the season of FOOD!
 
Whether it's the turkey, potatoes, casseroles, cookies, rolls, vegetables, ham, stuffing, eggnog or pies, pies, pies, I don't know too many people that are unhappy about all of the cooking, baking and eating that comes along with the holidays.

But... did you know that cooking is the number one cause of home fires and injuries, and that the winter months are the deadliest season for home fires? Don't put your house or family in danger, it's time to focus on the importance of fire safety with Kidde!

As the world's largest manufacturer of fire safety products, Kidde is on a mission to provide solutions that protect people and property from the effects of fire and its related hazards each and every day.

This season, Kidde is working tirelessly to stress the importance of fire and carbon monoxide safety for the holidays – in the kitchen as well as throughout home. The sad truth is that most fatal home fires happen in homes with no smoke alarm or no working alarm.

Even worse? A recent Kidde survey revealed some pretty startling statistics, including that nearly five times as many Americans know the shelf life of a Twinkie than know the recommended operating life of a smoke alarm.

People, this is NOT ok.

It's time to change things! With so much cooking going on this month, there is no excuse to skimp on safety.

First, be sure that your home is fully equipped. Kidde designs and develops smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, fire extinguishers, escape ladders and more in order to best protect people and property from the effects of fire and its related hazards. There is just no reason to be without any of the products that were specifically designed to increase your family's chances of staying safe!

I love Kidde's line of Worry-Free Smoke Alarms, which offer a variety of benefits to the millions of Americans who rely on continuous battery-powered smoke and fire detection in their homes. The new alarms are powered by sealed-in, long-life lithium batteries for 10 years (the life of the alarm).

Even better, they also offer a Worry-Free Carbon Monoxide Alarm, the first and only UL-listed CO alarm proven to provide up to 10 years of protection – up to twice the lifespan of other available alarms. This CO alarm also contains a sealed-in lithium battery that powers the alarm for a decade, so it is a snap to eliminate any annoying low-battery chirps while helping to keep your loved ones safe.

Second, don't let another day go by without printing out the following Kidde Recipe for Safety so that you can have it handy in the event that you need it for reference. These are definitely tips that all of us need to know!

But while you're hopefully already turning pot handles to the back, not putting metal in the microwave, and are keeping flammable items away from the stove, do you have a kitchen fire extinguisher handy in case of a grease fire? Or if a small, self-contained fire occurs?

The simple act of having one handy just might make the difference between a small situation that can be efficiently handled and a large, drastic, life-changing event.

This holiday season (and beyond) give yourself the gift of peace of mind knowing that you have protected your family and your home as best as possible. For 90 years, industry leaders, the military, airlines, and firefighters have relied on Kidde to deliver superior fire protection and the same advanced technology can be found in all of their consumer products. Make your home and family safe today!

Find out much more about all of the ways that Kidde can help you follow a "Recipe for Safety" every day of the year by visiting them at Kidde.com and by connecting with them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Plus, thanks to their generosity, one person will start off the new year safely as well, because...

One lucky person will win a kitchen fire extinguisher from Kidde!

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A big thank you to Kidde for providing compensation and a kitchen fire extinguisher for me as well as a kitchen fire extinguisher for one lucky giveaway winner. The opinions shared are my own and honest if you really need to see more, click here to see how I roll.

Aflac Sports Safety Tips and the Ultimate College Football Experience Sweepstakes {#AflacSweeps}

While my kids seem to have received many of my husband's good qualities (e.g. intelligence and caring) as well as a few genes of mine that I was happy to pass on (e.g. good teeth and an inner drive to never give up), I'm still trying to figure out where their lack of coordination came from.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not expecting either one to compete in the Olympics or make a career out of their favorite sport, but is it too much to ask that they not hurt themselves by walking into the wall? Or falling off of the couch? Or tripping on air?

Therefore, as much as I love encouraging my kids and enrolling them in all sorts of classes, activities and sports so that they have the chance to discover where their passions may be, it's nearly impossible for me to not constantly worry about their safety. I'm telling you, the possibilities when it comes to the injuries or illnesses that they might end up with are endless!

Fortunately, there are companies like Aflac that understand the stress that parents like me experience. Through their Sports Safety Tips, Accident Insurance Policy and more, they make it easier to relax and know that no matter what, they will be there to help keep families from getting sidelined all season long.

Is there anyone unfamiliar with Aflac? This Fortune 500 company provides individual and group voluntary insurance products that help deliver protection to more than 50 million people worldwide. For nearly six decades, Aflac insurance policies have given policyholders the opportunity to focus on recovery, not financial stress.

Therefore, when it comes to putting parents' minds at ease, Aflac knows that accidents happen and wants to make sure that families everywhere are covered with supplemental insurance to help ease the financial stress. Without health insurance, the average cost to treat a broken leg is over $10,000, so now imagine the cost of a serious back injury!

On the other hand, supplemental insurance can help cover all sorts of expenses that may not be fully covered by major medical insurance, such as broken teeth, concussions, emergency room visits and lacerations.

Of course I don't want to think of either of my children getting hurt in these or any other manner, but combining their natural clumsiness with the inherent dangers that occur in any sport or activity and it just makes sense to be prepared!

Little Sister B, soccer star.

Along with offering voluntary insurance plans to help provide peace of mind and cash benefits, Aflac's Sports Safety Tips for football are important lessons for all ages and all sports.

To help children learn how to keep things as safe as possible, pass along these great tips:

Wear your gear! Even though some equipment may look optional, it is important to wear all necessary pads and safety gear each time you play.

Follow the rules. In the heat of the moment it is easy to forget, but there is a reason why there are actions that are illegal - they can be very dangerous to the player and their opponents.

Listen to your body. If at any point you feel pain or discomfort while playing, notify your coach and get out of the game. While sitting on the sidelines is one of the most difficult situations a player can face, pushing through injuries increases the severity and keeps you out of action longer.

Follow the doctor's orders. Always listen to your doctor's suggestions and advice on when you can return to any activities following an injury and what you can do to stay fit and rehab the injury in the meantime.

Is that an elbow being thrown? I'm not sure that's legal!

Speaking of Aflac and their love of sports, they are currently running a season-long football campaign – which includes the Aflac Duck's new commercial as well as a partnership with the Heisman Trophy – that you're going to want to enter: the Ultimate College Football Experience Sweepstakes!

If you are the ultimate college football fan then this #AflacSweeps is for you! Three lucky fans will win a trip for two (including round trip airfare, hotel accommodations, ground transportation and a $500 prepaid debit card), a pair of tickets to one of three college football games in November, a chance to meet Desmond Howard and more. Winners will be announced Oct 28th, Nov 4th and Nov 11th, so be sure to enter once every 24 hours on Facebook (for bonus entries, share on Twitter)*!

Desmond Howard and the Aflac Duck!

Ready to find out more about Aflac and everything that they have to offer? Head over to Aflac.com and connect with them on Facebook and Twitter.

How do you help your children stay safe while involved in sports and activities?


*CONSUMER NOTICE: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. Open to legal permanent residents of 50 U.S. states and DC, 21 or older, who have Internet access and valid email address prior to 08/28/14. To enter and for Official Rules, including odds and prize descriptions, click here: https://www.facebook.com/aflacduck/app_143103275748075. This sweepstakes is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook or Twitter. For a winner's list (after 11/10/14), visit the Ultimate College Football Experience tab of this page or mail request to Aflac "Ultimate College Football Experience" (Specify Winner List), Media Relations, 1932 Wynnton Road, Columbus, GA 31999. Sponsor: American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus.

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

Keeping Your Family Prepared and Safe on the Road with Rain-X {Wiper Blades and Glass Cleaner Giveaway}

While I have all kinds of concerns (some warranted, some not) when my kids head off to school each day, I try to remind myself to simply focus on the things that I can control and not fret about those that I cannot.

Work to ensure that my kids get a good night's sleep and a filling, healthy breakfast so that they're ready to take on the day? Check. Protect them from the harsh, cutting words of bullies or mean girls? Deep breath, let's just cross that bridge when we come to it.

Fortunately, one aspect on my list of worries that doesn't come up often is my children's safety during the commute to and from school. We live close enough that, weather permitting, I walk with my kids to and from, so I don't have to think about what I'm doing to keep them safe during that time.

However, during the long winter months when the temperatures are frigid or on days when the rain just won't let up, I pull out the car and suddenly I have a new level of anxiety... which is why I feel better knowing that I can turn to the the name who has provided drivers with products to help them outsmart the elements for the last 40 years: Rain-X.

Starting with their Original Glass Treatment water beading technology, Rain-X now offers wiper blades, glass cleaners, car washes, waxes, bug and tar removes, headlight restoration kits and more — they lead the automotive aftermarket in glass care.

This is why when Rain-X focuses on encouraging drivers to prepare for even the most unexpected weather conditions this school year, we need to listen! Why would you not want to stay one confident step ahead of Mother Nature on the road this season and beyond?

In fact, a new survey from Rain-X has revealed that up to 94% of parents admit to having anxiety about someone else driving their children to school. The greatest cause for concern (93%) comes during times of unpredictable and inclement weather like rain, sleet or snow. Whether kids and teens take the bus, ride in a carpool or drive themselves, their safety during the commute is a primary concern among parents.

For 62% of parents, safety concern stems from nervousness over decreased visibility that the driver could experience during bad weather. Parents whose children ride the bus (52%), carpool with another driver (49%) and parents of teen drivers (32%) all worry that drivers and their vehicles may not be prepared for such conditions.

However, more than 8 in 10 parents said their concerns would be alleviated knowing a vehicle was properly maintained with features like a water-repellent product for windshields, windows and mirrors for optimal visibility in even the worst weather conditions. It's time to ensure that all vehicles transporting kids are prepared!

In addition to keeping windshields their cleanest, Rain-X formula also repels rain, sleet and snow with its water beading technology. This technology causes water on the vehicle windshield to bead up and roll away, enhancing driving visibility in inclement conditions.

Considering that greater visibility means that drivers can ensure safer rides to and from school for students, the result is that parents and families are provided with greater peace of mind during the school year. It should definitely be more than just school buses that have the cleanest, clearest windshields possible!

Don't take chances on the road! Rain-X products are available from RainX.com as well as major retailers, automotive retailers and Amazon.com so there is no reason to not be well-equipped this fall, winter and beyond.

You can also find more information, tips and products by connecting with Rain-X on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

And, thanks to their generosity, one person will be prepared to drive more safely very soon, because...

One lucky person will win a set of Rain-X Latitude Wiper Blades* and a bottle of Rain-X 2-in-1 Glass Cleaner with Rain Repellent!

*in the form of a redemption coupon so that the winner can get the correct size for their vehicle

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A big thank you to Rain-X for providing products for me as well as for one lucky giveaway winner. The opinions shared are my own and honest and if you really need to see more, click here to see how I roll.

Important Car Seat Safety Tips from Safety 1st {onBoard 35 Air+ Infant Car Seat Giveaway}

It's a given that we wouldn't hand over a pair of scissors to a baby to play with, right? Or send our toddler outside, encouraging them to play on the nearby highway? Or how about laying out a variety of household cleaners, bowls and spoons for some child-led science experiments?

While any parent would scoff at those ideas with a shake of their head and an obviously not comment, the majority of us are making just as dangerous of a choice with our car seats. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) in San Diego just released findings that 93% of parents leaving the hospital made at least one critical error when installing or using their car seat.

How scary is that statistic?

It should be a goal of parents everywhere to help raise awareness about this important topic so if you or anyone you know has a child in a car seat, be sure to look closely at the following car seat safety and proper installation tips from the consumer safety experts at Safety 1st.

Safety 1st is driven by a single-minded focus of making the world a safer and happier place for our cherished little ones to grow up in — whether in their car seat on their first ride home, snuggled in a bassinet, or staying entertained in a bouncer.

They attribute their continued success to an unwavering commitment to child safety, innovation, quality and value and these car seat safety tips are just another way that they have set out to help parents everywhere.

Importance of Rear Facing

In March of 2011 the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) updated their car seat recommendations advising that children should remain rear facing until the age of two.

According to a study in the Journal of Injury Prevention children under the age of two are 75% less likely to die or be severely injured in the event of a car crash if they are rear facing. When a child is rear facing their head, neck and spine are better supported and in the event of an accident, crash forces are distributed over the child's entire body.

Location

Typically the center rear seat is the safest place for a car seat and never install a car seat in the front seat. If your car does not have a latch connector for the middle seat, you can use the middle seat belt to properly secure the base. When installing, make sure the base of the car seat moves no more than an inch from side to side. An easy way to test this is to hold at the belt path.

Car Seat Expiration

Car seats do have an expiration date, it is recommended that car seats be replaced every 5-8 years, or immediately after a crash. The reason for an expiration date is because plastic can warp and materials can fray, which can make car seats not as effective in the event of a crash.

Additionally, car seat technology and state and federal car seat regulations change over time. Important warning labels may wear out and instruction books may get lost, which can lead to improper use of the car seat.

Safeguard the Car

Childproof the inside of the car and eliminate projectiles. Anything in the car that is not secured is a possible projectile – even a child's toy or a water bottle. In a crash, objects take on greater weight due to crash forces.

When it comes to staying safe in the car, eliminate risks as much as possible with these tips, plus:

• Tighten the harness snugly enough so that you can't pinch any slack between your fingers in the harness webbing.

• Make sure the chest clip is at the level of the infant's armpit.

• In the rear-facing car seat the harness should come through the slot at or below the child's shoulders.

• Make sure you adjust the car seat at the correct angle. If it is too tight there is a risk of the baby's airway getting blocked and if it is too reclined, it won't protect the baby in a crash.

• Use either the seat belt or the lower anchors, but not both, to secure the car seat — unless the manual specifically says you can use both.

Why take a chance with your child's safety when you don't have to? Even if you believe you have installed your car seat correctly, why not have it checked by a professional for that extra peace of mind?

Head over to Safety 1st to find out more and to see their full line of high quality products that can help keep your child safe and secure in the event of a crash. I love that their amazing Air Protect + technology combines the advanced protection of the Air Protect cushion system with patented GCell HX foam (designed with hexagonal shapes for superior protection around the torso). Together they provide full body side impact protection!

You can also find out more and connect with Safety 1st on Facebook and Twitter. And, thanks to their generosity, one person will be prepared to keep their little one buckled up in the best way possible, because...

One lucky person will win an onBoard 35 Air+ Infant Car Seat from Safety 1st (ARV $169.99)!

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A big thank you to Safety 1st for providing the information for this post and a car seat for one lucky giveaway winner. The opinions shared are my own and honest and if you really need to see more, click here to see how I roll.

From Baby to Big Kid: Graco 4Ever 4-in-1 Car Seat {Review}

While there will always be differing opinions on the necessity of baby items such as a wipes warmer or an umbrella stroller, there is no question on the importance of a car seat.

It is one of the most-researched items for parents-to-be and one that veteran parents continue to check, recheck and update as their child gets older. After all, if you consider the infant seat, the toddler seat and at least one or two types of booster seats, we end up purchasing approximately four car seats per child, right?

That has always been the case, at least, until now. Until Graco, the brand already known for their broad range of baby gear, debuted what I consider a complete game-changer to the world of car seats: the Graco 4Ever 4-in-1 Car Seat.

From baby to booster and for children 4lbs to 120lbs, Graco has dubbed the 4Ever 4-in-1 Car Seat the only car seat you will ever need.

I'm not going to lie, when I read about the 4Ever, I was not only extremely surprised, but very skeptical. Of course there are car seats that can switch between rear-facing and forward-facing, but how was it possible that Graco had come up with a way to have one seat fit tiny infants all the way up to big, big kids?

Now this, I had to see.

Available in Cameron (shades of grey) and Kylie (touches of pink edging), this high quality convertible car seat provides the comfort, safety and protection at each stage and grows right along with your child.

We're talking one car seat for 10 years!

As soon as I lifted this car seat out of the box, I was impressed with how sturdy and dependable it felt, not to mention the level of softness of the cushions and padding. This doesn't at all feel like a hard piece of plastic, instead it features a steel-reinforced frame with every inch covered with energy absorbing foam padding and plush inserts.

At the same time, Graco has included so many features to make the 4Ever extremely safe — their Simply Safe Adjust Harness System, 10-position head rest and the level to which this car seat has been engineered and crash tested (including side-impact tested) to meet or exceed US safety standards, just to name a few.

I especially love the great protection that Graco includes to protect a child's head!

But let's get to the one-of-a-kind unique innovation of this car seat, shall we? How in the world can one seat take the place of four?

Stage 1: Rear-facing for infants weighing 4-40 pounds.

Using the simple recline lever in the front, adjusting the 4Ever to the correct recline position is a snap... made even more so with the easy-to-read level indicator right on the side. 

Ensure that the bubble is in the designated area, the seat is installed tightly in your vehicle (using the LATCH straps or your car's seat belt) and the harness straps are at the correct level and your new little one is sure to be comfortable, safe and supported!

Stage 2: Forward-facing with harness for toddlers weighing 20-65 pounds.

Simply remove any extra padding, reduce the recline and adjust the head rest and 5-point harness to the correct locations to fit your child. Again, install the 4Ever tightly using the LATCH straps or your car's seat belt and your toddler is good to go.

Stage 3: Highback booster for children 3+ weighing 30-100 pounds and 38-57" tall.

While I had initially assumed that I would have to completely remove the 5-point harness, Graco instead created a genius storage system in which the harness straps simply get hidden out of the way.

By unsnapping and lifting up the back padding, I found that the harness, chest clip, buckle tongues and even the buckle had a place to stay out of the way and non-bothersome to the passenger.

After getting the padding snapped back into place and the head rest adjusted, this backed booster is ready to be installed. Just thread the vehicle seat shoulder belt through the seat belt guide on the head rest and your child is secure.

Stage 4: Backless booster for big kids 4+ weighing 40-120 pounds and 40-57" tall.

As if I wasn't already amazed at the way that Graco had created a storage system to turn a convertible, harness car seat into a highback booster seat, they then make things completely mind-blowing with the fourth transition: removing the back.

Also tucked away underneath the padding, the back of this car seat is locked in place by two red latches. By lifting them and sliding them out of the way, the entire back can then be leaned forward and lifted straight off!

The result is a backless booster seat that will then stay in place and be used with the lap/shoulder seat belt for as long as your child needs it — no other car seat purchase is ever necessary!

I'm just not sure that I could be any more impressed with this car seat or any other features that could have been included!

It is extremely easy to adjust and install, fully safe, has a washable cover, is very comfortable, has not one but two cup holders... not to mention that Graco takes away any worry that you might have a level or the recline incorrect with their convenient label right on the side showing precisely which setting to choose.

Including innovative features, revolutionary safety technology and comfort and convenience, the Graco 4Ever 4-in-1 Car Seat makes it easy to make one purchase that will last from the day that you bring your newborn home to the day that they outgrow the need for a car seat altogether... not to mention the peace of mind of knowing that your most precious cargo is well-protected in any situation.

Retailing for $299.99 exclusively from Toys 'R' Us, the Graco 4Ever does have a higher price tag — but remember (in case I haven't mentioned this 100 times already), this is four car seats in one! Find out more about this and all of Graco's fantastic products at GracoBaby.com and by connecting with them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and YouTube.

Other than the 4Ever 4-in-1 Car Seat I was provided by Graco to facilitate my review, I was not compensated or enticed to do this review in any way. This post is solely my honest opinion of this product and this company.