About

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Arizona, United States
I'm a stay at home Mama to the world's greatest son! I wouldn't have it any other way. :D I'm a proud Army Wife, and I think the only downside to the Reserves is watching all of my active friends leave me! :( I enjoy everything, and anything with my baby, MOPS, positive parenting, cloth diapering, dabbling in "green" living, and enjoying life in my new role as a Mama! The only thing I miss about the East Coast is the beach!

29 September 2011

My first (intense) post partum workout... killer squats, and granny walks!

Posted by Adrianna at 9:06 PM 1 comments

My husband is pretty tech-savvy, and has the latest video game odds, and ends. We have a 360, and a Kinect. My brother in-law recently gave us (me), a workout game to loose my baby weight. Before we moved into our very spacious new home, it sat on top of our entertainment system, but now that we have the room for me to flail around, and since Isaac is older... and getting scarily more, and more independent each day... I can get my much missed, post Army body back! We haven't finished un-packing... and there is sooo much to do. Working out is honestly one of the last things on my mind. Hubby was messing around with the game, Isaac was asleep... and I just had to give it a shot. It creates a profile, visually measures your body, and has tons of workouts to choose from! I was plesantly surprised. There are fitness games, cardio, yoga, toning, kick boxing, karate... and more! There is even a special program after pregnancy cardio, and after pregnancy toning. I was very excited! My plan was to do cardio, loose weight, then tone. For some reason, the first workout I did was a mixture of cardio, and toning. It did the trick. I broke a sweat, and almost my leg lol. Mind you, I was on bed rest 75% of my pregnancy due to a subchoroinic hemmorhage, and preeclampsia... and too far along to move for the other 25%! It has been about a good year since I worked out. The workout sessions were 20 min each. Which is recommended about 2-3 times a week to stay fit, and healthy. The first round got me a bit sore, but the second had me doing so many squats! The sensor kept telling me they weren't low enough (and my bum was almost touching the ground!)... but I kept at it. I might love chocolate, but I WILL be 115lbs again! Thus is thing on day 3 since my worth out, I cannot bend my legs! Hip to though is so sore! Going down stairs, up stairs, and walking makes my knee give out lol! A granny with a walker has more mobility than I do right now! I did 40 minutes of squat variations, a burned 151 (but I think more) calories. :D They say if you're sore, you're doing something right... but I think I overdid it for the first workout. I've almost done a few faceplants due to my knees giving out. Another workout tommorrow (maybe)!

How did you Mama's feel after your first PP workout? Any funny stories? Do share!

27 September 2011

A new direction for this Blog...

Posted by Adrianna at 10:20 PM 1 comments

So, all these changes in my family's life have really gotten me thinking about how I would like things to go. Reviews, and Giveaways have been great... and fun. I am so happy to promote great companies, and get Isaac free stuff of course! I originally did it for diapers. They are too expensive, and my son needed them. Then when I learned you can basically run a blog like a business, and make money... as a stay at home Mama, this appealed to me greatly. To pitch my part, and enjoy my child?! Win/win... right? Not really. I love connecting with other parents, and spreading my knowledge of "green" living... and of course helping other families save money, and win free stuff! I've noticed that these serious bloggers, with amazing giveaways, and great swag... spend so much time doing blog stuff that they forget why they do it... for their children! The child gets great stuff, but they miss out on what they really need. BONDING. It was fun while it lasted, but with the ammount of work that goes into this stuff, and the time away from your child (whether they're sleeping, or not)... I could be half way through a couple college classes. I made the choice to put that on hold until Isaac is older, and be a stay at home Mama so as to not miss out on these precious times, and build memories, and great experiences for Isaac. He is only young once. I'm putting this stuff on hold. I don't want to miss a thing with my child. My love is the greatest gift I can give him! I just want to enjoy life, everyday with my family. Don't worry, I AM still going to do Reviews, and Giveaways just not as often, or many. You crazy fluff addicts! (*Guilty!*). Instead, my blog's focus is going to be parenting, and connecting with other families. So, please share away! I just started seriously attacking post partum weight loss (my legs are so sore... and I do NOT wanna do another squat any time soon... but will be lol). I will be sharing my weigh-ins, successes, failures, recipes, and before, and after pics! (I'm a chub-meister so don't be alarmed! You're probably a Mama, so I'm sure you understand). I'm also planning on getting Zumba, to add to my various workouts. I've heard a lot of raves! I don't have the time to post about every workout, meal, or weigh-in. I will share frequently though!

For post partum weight loss, what did you do? It would really help (if you don't mind sharing) if you had a natural birth, or c-section birth. I had a natural birth, but a friend of mine had a c-section, and I've heard each have a special type of workout that works best? Maybe a myth? Let me know! Had a great workout, now I'm ready for some great rest (we are still unpacking our new house too!). New posts soon! Goodnight everyone!

18 September 2011

Smartipants Cloth Diaper Review & Giveaway (Ends 17 October 2011)

Posted by Adrianna at 10:14 PM 62 comments
Smartipants is an affordable cloth diaper company whose diapers feature their unique Leak-Guard Technology which helps to contain moisture in the diaper, and your baby dry. Smartipants are made from breathable fibers, and are chemical-free, and irritant-free for maximum comfort. Smartipants feature snap closure, snap rise adjustment, and are a one-size diapering system that is designed to grow with your baby... from approximately 7 - 35lbs!


Smartipants smallest rise setting.


Smartipants medium rise setting.


Smartipants largest rise setting.


Smartipants have gentle pleated stretch-elastic on the back, and legs of the diapers. This allows a gentle, but snug fit for maximum comfort, and mess containment. Smartipants feature a "Smart Sleeve" (front, and rear opening) for stuffing. It is designed so the insert will come out on it's own in the wash. Smartipants Leak-Guard Technology prevents moisture from seeping outside the diaper, with their unique isolated insert lining.


Rear Smart Sleeve opening.


Front Smart Sleeve opening.


Each Smartipants comes with 1 insert. Inserts are made from a Polyester-Nylon blend that is both soft, and absorbent.


Smartipants fabric is specially treated, waterproof, and does not require additional covers. Smartipants snaps are long lasting snaps, and guaranteed for 2 years.


I give Smartipants 4/5 stars!

These are one of my most favored, and reliable cloth diapers in my son's stash. I really like how soft, and stretchy the outer fabric is. I also, very much appreciate the one-sized system (as this saves us money!), and the snaps (much easier than aplix... I hate picking out lint from the tabs, and the fact that they scratch my son!). The inner isn't fuzzy, and doesn't become unsightly, or pil after washing. The stretch allows a snug, but comfortable fit, and does not leave red marks. Isaac is a very heavy wetter, and these diapers last us through the night. After a spin cycle the shell is dry enough for use, and the insert doesn't take too long to dry (we hang dry). Being an Army wife, I enjoy supporting this company, as their product is proudly US made! The only thing I would like to see added to these diapers, is a hip/wing snap. All around great diaper.

Buy it:

You can purchase Smartipants for $14.95. 

Win it:

Smartipants has generously offered to give 1 follower, 1 Smartipants cloth diaper (in their color choice), for their Smartipants! Thank you Smartipants!


15 September 2011

Sorry for the lack of posts!

Posted by Adrianna at 9:56 PM 1 comments

Hello everyone!

I just wanted to take a minute to give you all a quick update on the homefront. It's monsoon season here in Arizona, and unfortunately, my son, and I got caught in the rain while grocery shopping, and came down with nasty colds! I'm updating from my android while he's asleep. We will also be moving to our new home 23 September 2011. I won't be posting until the following week after our move so my son, and I can kick these colds, and my family can get settled into our new home. I have some great giveaways in store for you, but in the meantime, show these blogs some love!

- Nini & Goo
- Twice the Fun
- 17 Sirens

Thanks for understanding!

11 September 2011

Rockin' Green Soap Review & Giveaway (Ends 12 October 2011)

Posted by Adrianna at 3:05 PM 238 comments
Rockin' Green Soap is a company that only uses bio-degradable, eco-friendly ingredients, and 100% natural scents which are better for your skin, and the planet. Unlike most companies, Rockin' Green doesn't take the same "one-size fits all" approach. Rockin Green' has 3 custom designed formulas based around a rock theme: Soft Rock, Classic Rock, and Hard Rock so no matter what laundry woes you may have, Rockin' Green has you covered. Rockin' Green Soap is safe for cloth diapers, and regular laundry too. Rockin' Green has a variety of scents that are also based around a rock theme, and they sell many accessories too!


We chose the Smashing Watermelons scent, the Funk Rock formula, and the Motley Clean scent to review. We chose the Hard Rock formula because of the water type in Arizona. If you're not sure what type of water your area has, there is a color-coded (based on the 3 custom designed formulas) map of the US on the Rockin' Green website that can help you figure out which formula is right for your household. Funk Rock is a new formula that is specially designed for ammonia, and other lingering "stinkies". This is great for cloth diapers with ammonia build-up, or cleaning up a pets indoor "accident".

I give the Rockin' Green Soap 4/5 stars!

I am very confident using the Rockin' Green Soap on Isaac's cloth diapers. I know that it won't ruin them, since it's cloth diaper safe, but more importantly, I know that Isaac's sensitive skin won't be irritated since Rockin' Green Soap is 100% natural. There are no harsh, or toxic chemicals to be weary of. The Smashing Watermelons is my favorite scent, it's very juicy, and perfect for summer! The Motley Clean scent smells like clean cloths fresh out of the dryer, minus the harmful dryer sheets! I think it will take a few more overnight soaks to fully remove the ammonia build-up from Isaac's cloth diapers, but the smell wasn't as nose burning as it was prior to our wash with the Funk Rock formula. I would personally like to see the Funk Rock formula available in the same scents that the other formulas are available in. It smelt a little bland, but got the job done which is all that matters in the end!

Buy it:

Win it:
Rockin' Green has generously offered to give 1 lucky follower a 45/90 bag of Rockin' Green Soap in the formula, and scent of their choice! Thank you Rockin' Green!

Please refer to this blog's GIVEAWAY RULES before participating!
 
Mandatory entries:
- GFC follow my blog by clicking the "Join this Site" button on the farthest left column of my blog, 2nd box down from the top. Please leave a comment below with your GFC name. *

- Follow me on NetworkedBlogs by clicking the "Follow this blog" button on the middle column of my blog, 2nd box down from the top. Please leave a comment below with your facebook name. *

- GFC follow my husband's blog From the Father's View. Please leave a comment below with your GFC name. *

- Please leave a comment below letting me know which formula, and scent you will choose if you are the winner. *

Optional extra entries:
+2 comment entries: "Like" the Our Lives Intertwined facebook page. Please leave a comment below with your facebook name.

+3 comment entries: "Like the Rockin' Green facebook page. Please leave a comment below with your facebook name.

+3 comment entries: "Like" the Rockin' Green Military facebook page. Please leave a comment below with your facebook name.

+1 comment entry: Share this giveaway on facebook tagging both Our Lives Intertwined, and Rockin' Green. Please leave a comment below with the permalink to your post.

+2 comment entries: Follow @adrisannac on twitter. Please leave a comment below with your twitter ID.

+3 comment entries: Follow @RockinGreenSoap on twitter. Please leave a comment below with your twitter ID.

+1 comment entry daily: Tweet about this giveaway: #win a 45/90 @RockinGreenSoap bag choice of formula/scent from @adrisannac #giveaway #clothdiapers (Ends 12 Oct. 11) <= include a direct link to this giveaway's post before the arrow for this entry to count. Please leave a comment below with the permalink to your tweet, as well as the date of your tweet.

+4 comment entries: Subscribe, and confirm to my blog via e-mail by clicking the "Submit" button after entering a valid e-mail address in the textbox on the middle column of my blog, 3rd box down from the top. Please leave a comment below with the e-mail address (in the your {at} e-mail {dot} here format to prevent spam!) that you signed up with.

+5 comment entries: Grab my button! The code can be found on the farthest left column of my blog, 4th box down from the top. Please leave a comment below with the URL of where you posted my button, and directions where I can locate it.

+6 comment entries: Sign up for Shop It To Me, and get a FREE $10 gift certificate! Must be a new sign up for these entries to count. Please leave a comment below with the e-mail address (in the your {at} e-mail {dot} here format to prevent spam!) that you signed up with.

+1 comment entry per giveaway: Enter any other active giveaways on my blog, or my husband's blog. Please leave a comment below with the name of the other giveaway(s) entered, and the name that the giveaway was entered under.

We received 1 sample of Rockin' Green soaps Smashing Watermelons scent, Funk Rock formula, and Motley Clean scent to facilitate this review. No other compensation was received, and this post's content was not influenced. All opinions expressed are my own, and my opinions, and experiences with the Rockin' Green Soaps might differ from your own. If you have any questions, or concerns regarding this product, please refer to the company website for more information.



09 September 2011

Zoobies 3-in-1 pet Review & Giveaway (Ends 10 October 2011)

Posted by Adrianna at 11:35 PM 113 comments
Zoobies is a company that supports children on 3 different, basic levels. Play, sleep, and love. Zoobies are the Armani, Chanel, and Versace of the plush animal kingdom. Each Zoobies 3-in-1 pet offers children the emotional comfort, and security of a "favorite cuddle toy", while doubling as a warm blanket, and comfortable pillow as well. Zoobies products are not only created with children in mind, but their unique 3-in-1 pet design is Mom friendly. More than a plush toy, more than a blanket, more than a pillow. Less clutter whether at home, or on the go.

We chose to review the Zulu the Zebra Zoobies 3-in-1 pet. I thought this was a perfect fit for Isaac because "Daddy" is in the Army, and the letter "Z" in the phonetic alphabet is "Zulu"!

Microbead stuffed head.

I really liked that the eyes are part of the plush toy's fabric, rather than the common, sewn-in bead eyes which can be a choking hazard. Zoobies are recommended for ages 3+, but have been safety tested for all ages. Since Isaac is only 5mo old, this feature makes me feel confident that he will be safe when chewing on Zulu's face (at this stage, it seems just about everything goes in his mouth).
Polyester, and additional materials.

There are 2 hook, and loop velcro tabs located on the bottom of the Blanket Pet, which keep Zulu in his plush animal form.

L: 22" x W: 7" x H: 13".

I was pleasantly surprised with how generously sized Zulu was in his pillow form. Each Zoobies 3-in-1 pet comes with directions on how to fold the blanket inside, to achieve the best fit in the pillow pet. As the Mama of an infant, I don't have the time to precisely fold the blanket, and I honestly just quickly stuff the blanket back inside the pillow pet when we are finished using it. It gets the job done as far as picking up is concerned, but if you plan on using the Zoobies as a pillow, I recommend taking the time to fold the blanket correctly since the pillow pet will be very large, lumpy, and not as comfortable.


There is a zipper compartment located on the bottom of the pillow pet. This un-zips so you may pull out the blanket that's inside.

Coral fleece blanket measuring 44" x 34".


The blanket is also attached by zipper to the pillow pet. The blanket can be un-zipped from the pillow pet, and used separately, or for easy washing. The blanket is large enough for an adult to use as well!


I give the Zoobies 3-in-1 pet 5/5 stars!

This product has a various selection of animals in different colors, and coordinating blanket colors/prints. There is one to meet everyone's preferences! The entire product is very cute, very soft, very warm, and I love the fact that you get a plush toy, a pillow, and a blanket without needing the extra space to store them all. It is definitely Mom friendly, and Mama approved! This product is great for children visiting relatives, and for sleepovers! Any child would instantly fall in love with these cute, cuddly creatures. They would also make a nice addition to an adult who wants to be comfortable curling up on the couch with a good book!

Buy it:

You can purchase a blanket pet of your own for $35.00.

Win it:

Zoobies has generously offered to give 1 lucky follower a blanket pet of their choice! Thank you Zoobies!

Please refer to this blog's GIVEAWAY RULES before participating!
 
Mandatory entries:
- GFC follow my blog by clicking the "Join this Site" button on the farthest left column of my blog, 2nd box down from the top. Please leave a comment below with your GFC name. *

- Follow me on NetworkedBlogs by clicking the "Follow this blog" button on the middle column of my blog, 2nd box down from the top. Please leave a comment below with your facebook name. *

- GFC follow my husband's blog From the Father's View. Please leave a comment below with your GFC name. *

- Please leave a comment below letting me know which Blanket Pet you will choose if you are the winner. *

Optional extra entries:
+2 comment entries: "Like" the Our Lives Intertwined facebook page. Please leave a comment below with your facebook name.

+3 comment entries: "Like the Zoobies facebook page. Please leave a comment below with your facebook name.

+1 comment entry: Share this giveaway on facebook tagging both Our Lives Intertwined, and Zoobies. Please leave a comment below with the permalink to your post.

+2 comment entries: Follow @adrisannac on twitter. Please leave a comment below with your twitter ID.

+3 comment entries: Follow @zoobiepets on twitter. Please leave a comment below with your twitter ID.

+1 comment entry daily: Tweet about this giveaway: #win a @zoobiepets 3-in-1 plush toy, pillow & blanket pet from @adrisannac #giveaway (Ends 10 Oct. 11) <= include a direct link to this giveaway's post before the arrow for this entry to count. Please leave a comment below with the permalink to your tweet, as well as the date of your tweet.

+4 comment entries: Subscribe, and confirm to my blog via e-mail by clicking the "Submit" button after entering a valid e-mail address in the textbox on the middle column of my blog, 3rd box down from the top. Please leave a comment below with the e-mail address (in the your {at} e-mail {dot} here format to prevent spam!) that you signed up with.

+5 comment entries: Grab my button! The code can be found on the farthest left column of my blog, 4th box down from the top. Please leave a comment below with the URL of where you posted my button, and directions where I can locate it.

+6 comment entries: Sign up for Shop It To Me, and get a FREE $10 gift certificate! Must be a new sign up for these entries to count. Please leave a comment below with the e-mail address (in the your {at} e-mail {dot} here format to prevent spam!) that you signed up with.

We received 1 Zoobies 3-in-1 pet to facilitate this review. No other compensation was received, and this post's content was not influenced. All opinions expressed are my own, and my opinions, and experiences with the Zoobies 3-in-1 pet might differ from your own. If you have any questions, or concerns regarding this product, please refer to the company website for more information.




08 September 2011

*HOT Deal!* Get 2 FREE FuzziBunz Cloth Diapers w/ a Purchase of 6+

Posted by Adrianna at 10:22 PM 0 comments

This promotion is available to US, and Canadian customers only.
This promotion is available to customers only, retailers may not participate.
This promotion is applicable with FuzziBunz One Size cloth diapers, and FuzziBunz Perfect Size cloth diapers.

For every 6 FuzziBunz cloth diapers purchased, each customer is eligible for 2 FREE FuzziBunz cloth diapers, including: 1 solid colored FuzziBunz cloth diaper, and 1 mystery print FuzziBunz cloth diaper. There is no limit to the number of FREE FuzziBunz cloth diapers each customer can receive.

To receive the 2 FREE FuzziBunz cloth diapers, customers must purchase at least 6 FuzziBunz cloth diapers in 1 purchase. Customers must fill out, and print the promotional online rebate form. The online rebate form, original UPCs from each cloth diaper package, and original/copy of the store receipt, or packaging slip dated on, or between 15 August 2011, and 30 September 2011.




 

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