I’m Thankful for You Giveaway!

2016/11 By Lauren B. Stevens Leave a Comment

Happy Thanksgiving! Depending on your time zone, you’re either dozy from tryptophan or just sitting down to dinner. Or, if you’re an early bird, you’re already out holiday shopping. Whatever the case, Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

Each year, I like to thank you for hanging in there with me, especially since I post so infrequently anymore. I’m pretty sure I share more about the pieces I’m writing for others than the pieces I write for my own blog! At any rate, I appreciate you, and I want to give away this year’s HOT toy to one lucky winner!

I wasn’t lucky enough to find a Hatchimal in the store (despite stopping in 5 stores in one day to find one), so I, like many this year, had to pay [way] over retail to get one. I know this toy is going to make someone’s kiddo happy, I just wish I was able to give one to all of you who have the almost impossible task of finding one for your kiddo’s Christmas list.

So, here’s the thing. Entering is SUPER simple — you just have to be one of my followers on Facebook, by liking my lo-wren page. Easy peasy, as most of you already follow me! Here’s the link to the Facebook post:

I’m Thankful for YOU Giveaway!

Good luck!

A Bevy of Panties

2016/02 By Lauren B. Stevens 7 Comments

Just 3 months ago, I wrote a post about panties. These weren’t any ordinary panties, they were period panties. No, not your battered, beaten and stained “time-of-the-month” granny panties, these were stylish, sexy and functional THINX period panties. I took it upon myself to find out if THINX period panties lived up to the hype, and dropped $75 on three pairs of panties so that I could be a guinea pig for you. You see, I know that you, my readers, love reusable menstrual products as much as I do, so I thought I’d throw a little something different in the mix — no cup, no mama cloth, just THINX.

Anyway, I shared my embarrassing period HERstory, with all of my menstrual mishaps described in gory detail. At the end of the piece, after sharing some of my most embarrassing moments, I gave THINX panties a rave review and shared my referral link for readers to save $10 on their THINX purchase. The thing is, my friends, for every purchase made with my referral code, I’m sent a $10 gift card for THINX panties. Awesome, right?

Well, I’m here to say that much as you feel you can never have too many tampons/pads/cloth, you definitely can have too many pairs of period panties. I mean, how many pairs of period panties does a gal really need for her time of the month? Definitely not as many as I had credit for, to be certain.

Referral gift codes began rolling in, and after I sent period panties (dubbing myself the panty fairy) to every girlfriend of mine who was interested, I continued to accrue gift codes. With the accrual building, I contacted my local domestic violence agency, Laurel House, to see if they were interested and if they would accept them; I was given the go-ahead and began placing orders.

You will not believe how many referrals I began getting a day — sometimes up to 40 in a single day! It became clear to me that I needed to find another organization I could send panties to, and after some research, I found a local chapter of Days For Girls. Days For Girls, if you’re not already familiar, is an organization that provides quality, sustainable feminine hygiene products, allowing women in impoverished areas the opportunity to attend school, learn trades, become educated about reproductive health and so much more! Again, I reached out, and again, my panty offer was accepted.

Here’s where it gets really crazy, my friends. As of last week, I have donated over $10,000 in period panties to Laurel House and Days For Girls — that’s a lot of panties, my friends! In just three months I’ve been able to give SO much to young ladies and women in need!

2016 MommyCon Promo Code and Smart Bottoms Giveaway

2015/11 By Lauren B. Stevens 34 Comments

I had an absolute blast in DC for MommyCon this year, so much so that I’m going to do it all over again in 2016! Because I’m a MommyCon Sisterhood Journalist again this year, I have an amazing MommyCon promo code to offer a discount for you: use code LOWREN16 to save $5 off of your general admission ticket (discount changed by MommyCon, effective July 1, from $6 to $5, so that all event promoters offer the same discount, no matter their promotion results).

Being a MommyCon Sisterhood Journalist means that I will be covering [at least] one of the 2016 MommyCon event venues, and this year I’m torn between attending the DC event (AHmazing venue) again or heading down to Austin, TX just for fun (or maybe attending both).

I got to meet so many of you while “working” (it was more fun than work) at the Smart Bottoms booth in DC, and I got to discover great new products, like Re-Play dinnerware, made from recycled milk jugs. I can’t wait to see all of my cloth diapering friends again next year, both industry experts and cloth diaper users like yourself, and have wisened-up for this trip, in case I head to DC again — no family, just me.

#MommyConDC is a wrap! @chgdiapers @kim_rosas @firsttimemommn @lo-wren @MommyCon @liltulips #clothdiapers

A photo posted by Lauren Stevens (@laurenbethstevens) on Aug 22, 2015 at 1:59pm PDT

Long story short? My husband and son came along this year and my son refused to sleep, even though we were careful enough to book a suite. The French doors separating the rooms did absolutely nothing, so I headed to the convention already exhausted and my husband had to entertain my overtired kiddo for the entire day. Fun times!

Use MommyCon promo code LOWREN16 to save $5 off of your general admission ticket

Here are the locations for this year’s MommyCon events (click the links to find out more information about your venue):

Atlanta, GA

Chicago, IL

Seattle, WA

Austin, TX

Washington, D.C.

Orange County, CA

Orlando, FL

San Jose, CA

https://www.instagram.com/p/9EPHSmFBs6/

Oh, the giveaway, you ask? I have something special in store for those of you who use my 2016 MommyCon promo code (LOWREN16) to purchase your tickets. I’m giving away one Smart Bottoms Fantastic Hipster Fox Smart One cloth diaper, as well as 1 Smart Bottoms adult cloth advocacy tee and 1 Smart Bottoms baby tee at MommyCon DC.

Don’t fret if you’re attending MommyCon in another city, I’m also giving away 1 Smart Bottoms adult tee and 1 Smart Bottoms baby tee! Those of you who comment that you’re attending cities other than DC will be entered to win either an adult or baby tee.

So, here is all you need to do to enter to win a surprise from me: after you purchase your ticket with my MommyCon promo code (LOWREN16), leave a comment on this post shouting out the city where you’ll be attending MommyCon. Pretty simple, eh? The fine print is that the DC winner must be in attendance at the DC event to receive your prize (I’ll be sending the prizes to the other winners) – easy peasy! I’ll draw the winner on August 20 and announce (allowing time for me to draw another winner, if need be).

To enter, after you purchase your tickets (please don’t forget to use my promo code: LOWREN16), leave a comment on this post with the city where you’ll be attending. I will draw the winner(s) at the completion of the DC MommyCon event [that is posted in the comment section]. The fine print is that you must be a US resident, or have a US mailing address, to enter.

Please note that my promotional code does not apply to tickets purchased during the pre-sale period.

LÍLLÉbaby Carrier Giveaway

2015/09 By Lauren B. Stevens 8 Comments

Back in July, This West Coast Mommy marked two years of blogging. Two years deserves a big giveaway, and this is it! Okay, okay, it’s a little late (or a lot late), but better late than never, right? Regardless, she’s celebrating two years and some change worth of blogging with this awesome giveaway for a LÍLLÉbaby Baby Carrier.

Here’s a quick summary of the features that make the LÍLLÉbaby Complete Carrier one of the best all-around carriers out there:

SIX ERGONOMIC CARRYING POSITIONS – Includes every carrying position without the need for an infant insert: front-fetal, front-infant, front-outward, front- toddler, hip, and back carry. The Complete grows with your child through all the baby wearing years, from 7 lbs to 45 lbs. The patented cupped seat adjusts to keep baby ergonomically seated in all six carry positions through every developmental stage.
LUMBAR SUPPORT – Increases comfort, maintains healthy posture and alignment, and prevents lower back strain. Combined with an extra sturdy waist belt to maximize parent’s comfort.
TWO-WAY STRAPS – Enables wearer to carry “backpack style” or with straps crossed in the back. Dual adjustment buckles simplify breastfeeding and adjusting straps on the go.
SLEEPING HOOD – Features dual adjustment points to provide tailored support for baby’s head while sleeping, sun protection while exploring, and privacy while nursing. Removable.
EXTRA TALL, EXTENDABLE TORSO – So comfortable your baby will fall asleep. Provides extra neck and back support and keeps taller babies secure in the carrier. The adjustable width gently cradles baby’s head. Elastic straps provide support while allowing for movement and easy adjustment.
POCKETS – Large zippered storage pocket, plus easy reach pocket for storing hood and essentials.
WIDE, PADDED SHOULDER STRAPS & WAIST BELT – Evenly distribute baby’s weight for maximized comfort.

Got an older toddler? LÍLLÉbaby also makes the wider and taller CarryOn Toddler Carrier for babies 12 months and up, 20-60 pounds.

Make sure you connect with our generous sponsor LÍLLÉbaby on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.

Win a LÍLLÉbaby Carrier!

One VERY lucky reader will win any in stock LÍLLÉbaby carrier. That’s right, the winner will be able to choose any Complete or CarryOn carrier, even This West Coast Mommy’s favourite, the new Embossed carrier!

Enter in the giveaway widget below. This giveaway is open to residents of Canada and the US, 18+. All entries will be verified. Ends Oct 4, 2015 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

Entry -Form

Disclosure: I was not compensated for posting this giveaway. This West Coast Mommy and participating bloggers are not responsible for prize fulfillment. Please contact olivia@thiswestcoastmommy.com with any questions about this giveaway or to sponsor your own event.

Smart Bottoms Eloise Giveaway

2015/08 By Lauren B. Stevens Leave a Comment

For the past year I’ve had the honor of being a Smart Bottoms Cloth Diaper Ambassador, endorsing a cloth diaper brand whose product and business philosophy I believe in 100%. Since I began diapering in 2012, I’ve watched Smart Bottoms grow from a company with a buzz among cloth diaper bloggers, to a brand whose colors, prints, and diaper quality are highly sought after (just ask anyone who’s tried getting a recent print release).

I have been honored to be able to represent and promote Smart Bottoms, and will be passing the torch along to another amazing cloth diaper blogger after this month. It’s tough to try new products when you don’t have a little in diapers, you know?!

My fellow Smart Bottoms Diaper Ambassador Melanie, from Sunshine Praises, has been kind enough to a.) snag this highly sought after print, and b.) sponsor this amazing giveaway for an Eloise Smart One by Smart Bottoms.

Open to US residents 18+, giveaway ends September 7, 2015.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Healthy Baby Sleep Tips Webinar w/ Giveaway!

2015/08 By Lauren B. Stevens 27 Comments

I’m so excited to be offering this amazing opportunity to 25 of my readers! My very own “Sleep Goddess,” Jennifer Schindele, Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant and owner of Gift of Sleep Consulting is offering lo-wren readers a free Sleep Tips webinar. If you’re struggling to establish a healthy sleep routine for your baby (or toddler), this webinar is for you.

Jennifer Schindele is the go-to Pediatric Sleep Consultant for Philadelphia’s Main Line parents, recognized by Main Line Parent Magazine, consulting for several Care.com articles, and teaching sleep workshops across the region (if you’re in the area, check out her Facebook event listing, as she teaches several classes each month).

You can read about our sleep experience in my one year check in post: A Year of Sleep. At 3 years old, D still sleeps like a champ, with a two-hour nap mid-day (I don’t want that nap to EVER go away!).

Establishing healthy sleep habits when D was 9 months old allowed both of us to get the sleep we needed and created an excellent sleep routine for D to take with him through toddlerhood and beyond. That’s not to say that we’ve been without bumps and bobbles, as each milestone presented a sleep challenge, but for the most part, my little guy sleeps when he’s meant to sleep — no battles, no crying, just lots of Zzzzzs. Working with Jennifer meant that when sleep challenges did (and do) present themselves, I was able to calmly readjust (instead of panicking). I’m incredibly excited that Jennifer is offering this [free] opportunity for my readers to gather some healthy sleep tips and ask her their sleep questions!

Jennifer’s blog offers a wealth of advice, so if you’re unable to attend the webinar, I highly recommend checking out some of her most popular posts:

5 Ways Parents Unintentionally Sabotage Their Baby’s Sleep

Napping After Age Two: No-No or No Worries?

Help Your Newborn Sleep Longer

And a humorous one: 8 Signs You’re Ready to Transition From Co-Sleeping

Jennifer will be offering this webinar Tuesday, August 25th at 8pm EST. While the webinar is free, you must RSVP to secure your spot — only the first 25 people to RSVP will be accepted. All attendees will be entered to win one of four amazing sleep-related prizes (US only)!

Sustainable Babyish Overnight Fleece Bamboo Fitted Cloth Diaper ($28 ARV))

Onaroo OK to Wake Clock ($30 ARV)

HoMedics SoundSpa Sound Machine ($30 ARV)

Angel Dear Blankie ($15 ARV)

Remember, this webinar is limited to the first 25 people to RSVP, so please do not RSVP unless you are absolutely sure you can attend. The only entry you are required to submit is your RSVP entry, all other entries are optional.

Entry -Form

The Ultimate Online Baby Shower: August 2015

2015/08 By Lauren B. Stevens 2 Comments

It’s that time again! Time to RSVP, unlock the event calendar and sync favorite products and brands with your own calendar for this virtual event!

RSVP HERE before reading further

Why RSVP?

– to claim your entry into a drawing for two gift baskets, filled with items from all of the participating brands

– to unlock the calendar of events for The Ultimate Online Baby Shower, allowing you to plan your week with your sampling buddy

FLASH GIVEAWAYS

The Ultimate Online Baby Shower kicks off with fun Flash giveaways held by each of the participating bloggers. Be sure to follow my Facebook page, as I’ll be directing you to each flash giveaway page when they go live.

SAMPLER EVENTS

Several amazing baby companies will be hosting Sampler events on their Facebook pages throughout The Ultimate Online Baby Shower. Sampler events are fun, a rush, and go quickly (be ready); you want to click on the participating brand sampling link as they go live for the chance to receive free products from participating companies (they go FAST). I’ll be giving you prior reminders on my Facebook page so that you can be ready.

If you’ve not had the opportunity to try Sampler, it’s easy. You’ll have the opportunity to “Wish For” items that interest you, after you RSVP and unlock the calendar. You’ll navigate to brand pages, click the Wish For It link (in the Giveaway tab) and share it to your Facebook timeline; your friends will then know that you would like them to send the item/Sampler to you when it is unlocked. The best way to ensure you get the Samplers you want is to ‘buddy up’ with a friend and send them to each other when the event goes live.

THE BRANDS

Ssh! Baby's sleeping! Tune in MONDAY to find out more about @bellabundlesbaby / @bellabundle & @thesamplerapp #UOBS!

A photo posted by Lauren Stevens (@lowrenblogs) on Aug 7, 2015 at 8:13am PDT

BELLA BUNDLES

Bella Bundles’ line of accessories features designs and functionality fit for every modern mom! From bibs to blankets, comfort and practicality are of the utmost importance. The designs are hip, the sewmanship top-notch, and the fabrics incredibly plush. If you’re looking to outfit your nursery and baby’s layette with clean design, Bella Bundles has exactly what you’re looking for.

SAFETY 1ST

Kicking off the Ultimate Online Baby Shower this year is Safety 1st – you won’t want to miss their flash giveaway! We use Safety 1st child-lock products around our house, and they also make car seats, strollers, in addition to a myriad of other baby gear. I know their giveaway will be an event you won’t want to miss!

HABA

HABA is synonymous with quality in the toy world; made from sustainable materials, non-toxic paints, their toys get two thumbs up from me! I’m loving HABA’s Baby’s First Photo Album — brightly colored designs, soft fabric, and eight 4×6 slots for lots of family photos.

Hey pregnant moms — @basqskincare is participating in @thesamplerapp #UOBS next week!

A photo posted by Lauren Stevens (@lowrenblogs) on Aug 4, 2015 at 1:00pm PDT

BASQ

I remember being overly cautious with my first pregnancy, changing to natural shampoo and conditioner and tossing many of the household products and toiletries I’d used for years. I wanted to make sure that I wasn’t using products that contained chemicals that were not only unsafe for me, but also for my unborn child. Basq skincare takes out the guesswork with their line of skincare products devoid of any questionable ingredients!

BABY K’TAN

Having worn my own baby, Baby K’tan is a name I know well, but did you know that they make diaper bags as well? Baby K’tan’s SmartGear Diaper Bag features a built-in wet bag (no more forgetting!) with antibacterial lining. While cloth diapering moms will love the built-in wet bag feature, it’s great for any blowout or accident (think potty training).

UBBI

I’ve admired ubbi’s vibrantly-colored range of sleek, powder-coated steel diaper pails, in fact, ubbi’s diaper pail is what put them on my radar. Ubbi makes a full range of products to take you from diapering to potty training, from their diaper pail to training toilets and step stools. Ubbi even has snacks covered, with their Tweat snack containers in fun colors!

PEARHEAD

Pearhead helps parents celebrate all of the special moments in their little one’s lives, with modern designs and fresh prints. Add a bit of personalization to your journey from pregnancy throughout your baby’s milestones — Pearhead has keepsakes for every personality and taste.

@weecantoo is another amazing brand participating in @thesamplerapp #UOBS next week! Check out their line of natural, vegetable-based art supplies! #playwithyourfood

A photo posted by Lauren Stevens (@lowrenblogs) on Aug 5, 2015 at 10:27am PDT

WEE CAN TOO

I worried about what chemicals I came into contact with during pregnancy, which then transferred to my son once he was born. It seems almost everything (including the food we eat) contains harmful chemicals these days, but Wee Can Too art supplies takes out the worry. Made from vegetable dyes, Wee Can Too art supplies are non-toxic and colorful — they look good enough to eat (and you don’t have to worry if your little one does take a bite out of that modeling dough!)!

BELLI SKINCARE

“Ingredient safety, effective solutions with clinically proven ingredients, and luxurious formulations with aromatherapy to provide a spa-like experience,” the cornerstones to Belli’s pregnancy skincare line. No more reading label after label at the department store or drugstore — Belli skincare takes the guesswork out for you. Belli products are allergy tested, free of paraben preservatives, phthalates, and artificial dyes or fragrances, and made in the USA. Belli products are also teratology and Lactmed screened, ensuring that no harmful ingredients are passed to your unborn baby and infant through use and breastfeeding.

In search of baby-safe laundry & cleaning solutions? @thelaundressny / @thelaundress has you covered! Check them out in the #UOBS next week!

A photo posted by Lauren Stevens (@lowrenblogs) on Aug 7, 2015 at 1:13pm PDT

THE LAUNDRESS

We’ve come a long way from having only one laundry option for sensitive baby skin, and The Laundress elevates laundry care with their full range of products. From bleach alternative, to stain solutions and scented drawer sheets, The Laundress provides a full line of allergen-free laundering and care solutions. My cloth diapering friends will be happy to know that The Laundress also offers a Wool & Cashmere wash and freshening spray!

Guess what? The @thesamplerapp #UOBS begins 8/10! @me4kidz is one of the MANY participating brands! How cute are these bandages?!?

A photo posted by Lauren Stevens (@lowrenblogs) on Aug 4, 2015 at 7:32am PDT

ME4KIDZ

Possibly one of my favorite products in the UOBS is the Me4Kidz cut and scrape kid. I have a three-year-old boy, which means accidents happen all of the time! My son is at the age where there is a bandage preference (boring beige just won’t do), and we don’t “do” licensed characters in my household, which is why the little dudes kit is perfect for us. From antibacterial wipes to cool packs (Cool It Buddy), Me4kidz offers a full range of fun, yet necessary, products for the family. However, the product line isn’t the coolest thing about this brand — products are made from recycled plastic in the USA (to recycle and reuse resources AND keep jobs here) and charitable giving is at the forefront of the Me4kidz business mission (most of their products are assembled by people with disabilities).

ADIRI

As a breastfeeding mom, I was reluctant to introduce my son to the bottle — too early or too late — for fear it would disrupt nursing, and administering medication? Forget about it. However, Adiri’s MD+ Nurser is modeled to function and feel like a breast, making it easier for breastfed babies to receive medication and supplements as an infant. The Adiri MD+ Nurser design mimics a breast, features a dual-chamber nipple to ensure proper delivery, and an air valve to help prevent gas and spit-ups.

SWEETSATION THERAPY

Organic skincare has never been so…tasty! Sweetsation’s Choco*Smooch Organic Lip & Face Balm is perfect for lips, but I love the fact that it’s great for chapped baby cheeks! I remember the chapped cheeks that came along with teething, and then the battle in the winter to keep my little guy’s sensitive skin from drying and peeling. Made with Argan, Calendula & Sea Buckthorn, the Choco*Smooch stick’s ingredients are safe and little one’s will love the light, cocoa scent!

DAPPLE BABY

I’ve been using Dapple Baby’s cleaning products for a couple of years now. Their cleaning wipes are perfect for giving my son’s train table periodic wipe-downs, and their bottle wash is great for the insane sippy cup collection we have going on here. The best part about Dapple’s cleaning products is that they are dye-free, and made with non-toxic plant-based ingredients — safe for the entire home!

RAZBABY

Their signature RaZ-Berry teether is most likely how you first encountered the RaZBaby brand, I know it was for me! RaZBaby also makes an entire line of personalized Keep-it-Kleen pacifiers and pacifier holders. BPA-free and made with silicone, RaZBaby products are safe (with plastics made in the USA!), and the revolutionary design keeps the nipple clean when not in use or dropped!

BABY COMFY CARE

Our first encounter with the Baby Comfy Care brand was with their Baby Comfy Nose (we still use it and love it!). Baby Comfy Care has expanded their baby care line to include the Baby Comfy Nail, Baby Comfy Sun, and Baby Comfy Gummy teething jewelry. Baby Comfy Care is a family-run company dedicated to producing practical baby care products that families will love to use!

Fresh Families Back to School Giveaway!

2015/08 By Lauren B. Stevens Leave a Comment

Back to School is coming fast, and I’m teaming up with some of my favorite brands and bloggers to offer a huge back to school giveaway!

Three winners will take home a backpack loaded with school supplies – including Boogie Wipes. Plus a mommy clutch – full of everything mom needs to make the start of the school year as easy as possible – including a $25 Target gift card, a $25 Starbucks gift card, Downy Wrinkle Releaser Plus, a Dreft Stain Stick and Febreze In-Wash Odor Eliminator.

Make Back to School Simple with Fresh Families Brands

Bracing yourself for the back to school sniffles that seem inevitable this time of year? Boogie Wipes to the rescue! Click here to grab a coupon, and be sure to stack your savings at Target to save an additional 5% with the Cartwheel app.

Dreading having to iron those school uniforms and T-shirts every morning? Meet your new iron – Downy Wrinkle Releaser Plus. You’re going to love it! Click here for a coupon.

Have no doubt that your kids will slop some lunch on their brand new school clothes? Arm them with the Dreft To-Go Instant Stain Remover Pen! Click here for a coupon.

Already gagging when you think about having to wash those smelly gym clothes? You’ll be shouting #BringtheStink with the new Febreze In-Wash Odor Eliminator. Click here for a $2 coupon.

Complete the form below for a chance to win all of these products – plus more!

Enter to Win!

Complete the form below to enter to win!

Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm ET on Wednesday, August 19, 2015. Entrants must be residents of the United States or Canada. Promotion is void in Quebec.

Backpacks, mommy clutch and contents will vary from those pictured.

2015 MommyCon Promo Code & Special Giveaway

2015/03 By Lauren B. Stevens 40 Comments

Looking for my 2017 MommyCon promo code? Use LOWREN17 to save $5 off of each of your tickets! After you purchase your tickets, head over HERE to enter a sweet cloth giveaway!

Having attended MommyCon in Philadelphia the first year, I consider myself a MommCon Pro! What makes the 2015 MommyCon events even more exciting is that I am also a Smart Bottoms Cloth Diapers Ambassador, which means that I get to enjoy the convention two-fold; the excitement with the incredible line-up of speakers AND being able to tout the cool limited edition print Smart Bottoms designed just for 2015 MommyCon events. What’s even more exciting is that I’ve been given a 2015 MommyCon promo code to pass ticket savings on to you, my readers: LOWREN15

[Read more…]

Are You Prepared for an Emergency?

2014/12 By Lauren B. Stevens Leave a Comment

Last month I shared my Winter Storm Emergency Preparedness list, with a host of items to make sure you’re prepared for extended power loss during a winter storm. One of the items I included was a portable charger; a must have if you, like me, no longer have a landline. I keep a myCharge Energy Shot in my purse, in case of emergencies, which gives me an additional nine hours of charge. Today I’m sharing an awesome myCharge campaign with you, my readers.