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Smarty Pants Mama

Smarty Pants Mama: November 2008

Sunday, November 30, 2008

Smarty Pants Product of the Week & Giveaway - Alphabet Circus DVD

Product
Alphabet Circus DVD by Rock N Learn
Smarty Pants Review
You know you have found a winner when the 1st thing your munchkin says when she wakes up in the morning is “Apple Circus!” My 2 year old munchkin LOVES Alphabet Circus, and for some reason calls it Apple Circus. The Alphabet Circus DVD is fantastic. While the graphics can’t compete with Disney or the like, the content is EXCELLENT. The circus ringmaster teaches the alphabet by sings through each letter, making the letter sounds and finding words of the circus that begin with the letter. The tune is catchy, and I promise you’ll be singing the song all day – it’s one of those that easily gets stuck in your head! This DVD gets HUGE THUMBS UP for Smart Mamas. Tell Santa to put this under the tree, in my recommendation for little ones aged 2 - 5!

Alphabet Circus has won the Parents’ Choice Recommended Award and Dr. Toy 10 Best Video Products!

Rock N Learn has a super collection of educational DVDs. I hope to review additional titles in the next months. Stay tuned!

Why is it a Smarty Pants of Product?
Alphabet Circus is educational entertainment at its best!
Retail Value
$19.99
Website
http://www.rocknlearn.com/

Smarty Pants Product Giveaway
Product: Alphabet Circus DVD by Rock N Learn
Retail Value: $19.99
Entry Dates: Today - Sunday, December 7, 2008, 12:00 PM EST
Winner Announcement: Sunday, December 7, 2008 via blog posting and email.
How to Enter: Share which Rock N Learn DVD you are most interested in enjoying with your munchkin. Visit the Rock N Learn website (http://www.rocknlearn.com/) to see DVD titles.
Earn up to 3 more entries by posting additional comments (entries) to let me know you have:
- subscribed to my blog.
- posted the SmartyPantsMama.com button on your site! (please include blog address)
- Blog about this giveaway or this blog on your blog! (please include blog address)
Other Tiny Details: Product will only be mailed within the 48 continental states. One entry per person. I will contact the winner via e-mail by Monday, December 8, so please be sure I know how to get in touch with you if you win!!! If no contact info is provided it automatically disqualifies your entry. Winner selected by Random.org.

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And the winner is..... Lisa!

And we have a winner!!!! The winner of the Smarty Pants Product of the Week Giveaway is Lisa! Congratulations!!!! I am certain that you will enjoy sharing this VTech Sing and Play Piano with a special Munchkin!

Lisa said...
I just subscribed by google reader, I think this would be an awsome gift for my little one.





Thank you to the very many readers who participated in the giveaway! I hope you all become regular readers!

Smiles,
Smarty Pants Mama...a.k.a Caroline

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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Recall Wednesday - Jackets, dive sticks, air compressor, tin candle, tree toys, shades, blinds, acidic cleaner bottle, & denim pants

Below is the CPSC recalls I received this past week. Please be sure to review the information provided. All information below comes directly from the listserve emails sent by the CPSC. Please see the CPSC website for further, more detailed information.
Smiles :-)
Smarty Pants Mama
Name of Product: Young Colors Children's Hooded Jackets
Hazard: The jackets have drawstrings through the hood and at the waist. Children can get entangled in the drawstrings that can catch on playground equipment, fences or tree branches. In February 1996, CPSC issued guidelines (pdf) to help prevent children from strangling or getting entangled on the neck and waist drawstring in upper garments, such as jackets and sweatshirts. From 1985 through June 2008, CPSC received reports of 27 deaths and 70 non-fatal incidents involving the entanglement of children's clothing drawstrings.
Description: The cotton knit and woven hooded jackets have a drawstring through the hood and waist. They were sold in sizes 12 months through size 10 in a variety of solid colors and prints. "Young Colors" is sewn into the jacket tag located at the neck.
Sold at: Specialty children's stores nationwide from April 2004 through September 2007 for about $45.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled products, please go to:http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09047.html

Name of Product: Dive Sticks
Hazard: The recalled dive sticks could remain in an upright position, posing an impalement hazard to young children. CPSC banned pre-weighted dive sticks in 2001.
Description: The recalled dive sticks were sold in a bundle of three in multiple colors: light blue, aqua green, fluorescent yellow, royal blue, and red. The tag accompanying the dive sticks contains: "Dive Toys" or "Diving Game" and has a white small parts warning label in the upper right hand corner. The words "Made in China" are printed in the lower right hand corner.
Sold exclusively at: Target stores nationwide from April 2008 through August 2008 for about $1.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled products, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09048.html


Name of Product: Air Compressors
Hazard: The air compressor's components can fail, which could cause a stoppage of air flow. This poses a risk of drowning to users.
Description: The recalled air compressors are used to provide air to divers. The recalled products include the following models:Product Models Serial NumbersGas-powered direct drive hookah compressor assemblies F280X, F390X, C270, C390, CTD390 14421 - 15715Dual-head electric direct drive compressor assemblies E250, EC2 14344 - 15762The serial number is printed on a metallic plate located on the compressor's base and on the storage case.
Sold at: Brownie's Third Lung factory and various marine/diving products resellers nationwide from July 2007 through August 2008 for between $2000 and $3500.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled products, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09049.html

Name of Product: Anthropologie Tin Candles
Hazard: The candle flames could flare up out of the tin container during the burning of the last half inch of wax, posing a fire and burn hazard.
Description: This recall involves Anthropologie tin candles. The candles were sold in the following four fragrances; Amber Woods - Model #14987044, Black Lilac - Model #14987093, Figue Tree - Model #14987085 and Red Currant - Model #14987051. Candles sold after October 11, 2008 are not affected by this recall.
Sold at: Anthropologie stores nationwide from September 2008 through October 2008 about $20.

To see this release on CPSC's web site, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09053.html

Name of Product: Bead Maze Toys.
Hazard: The trees on the toys can detach, exposing a metal screw. This poses a laceration hazard to young children.
Description: The recalled products are painted wooden toys with beads that slide on a curved metal track. The product was sold in three styles: the Apple Tree Bead Maze, the Cactus Tree Bead Maze and the Palm Tree Bead Maze.
Sold by: Toy retailers nationwide from August 2008 through October 2008 for about $13.

To see this release on CPSC's web site, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09052.html


Name of Product: Insulated Black-Out Roller Shades and Insulated Roman Shades
Hazard: The black-out roller shades and insulated roman shades have a continuous looped bead chain that when not attached to the wall or floor, hangs loosely by the blind, posing a fatal strangulation hazard to children.
Description: This recall includes all insulated black-out roller shades (colors: white, cream, harvest, light sage) and insulated Roman shades sizes 48, 60 and 72 (colors: white, natural, sage, sienna, blue, goldenrod, mahogany, terracotta). The shades have RN number 107875 printed on the care label of the shade and identify the manufacturer on the "Installation and Care Instructions."
Sold at: Country Curtains, Plow & Hearth, The Linen Source, Sturbridge Yankee Workshop, Ann & Hope, The Sportsman's Guide, Target.com, The Curtain Shop of Maine, and Solutions Catalog. Sold nationwide from June 2005 through September 2008 for between $60 and $200.
To see this release on CPSC's web site, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09051.html

Name of Product: IRIS and ALVINE Roman Blinds
Hazard: Strangulations can occur when a child places his/her neck in an exposed inner cord on the backside of the roman blinds.
Description: This recall involves all sizes of IRIS and ALVINE Roman Blinds in white. The blinds have a sewn-in label at the top edge of the blind with the IKEA logotype, article name (IRIS or ALVINE), 5-digit supplier number 19799 or 21369, four digit date stamp (YYWW) and the words "Made in India". On the bottom edge of the blind there is a sewn-in orange/white safety warning label. The blinds are made from 100% cotton.
Sold at: IKEA stores nationwide from July 2005 through June 2008 for between $7 and $30.

To see this release on CPSC's web site, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09050.html


Name of Product: Heavy Duty Acidic Cleaner Bottles
Hazard: Pressure can build up in a full or nearly full bottle of the acidic cleaner when it is stored in elevated temperatures over an extended period of time, which can result in the cleaner leaking from underneath the cap. If the product comes into contact with skin, it can cause severe skin irritation.
Description: Heavy Duty Acidic Cleaner is used to clean ceramic and porcelain tile and grout. It was sold in silver-colored one quart plastic bottles. "DuPont" and "Heavy Duty Acidic Cleaner" are printed on the front of the bottle. UPC code 6-69009-71003-9 is printed on the back label.
Sold At: Lowe's stores from March 2008 through October 2008 for about $7.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled product, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09055.html


Name of Product: Arizona(r) Newborn and Infant Denim Pants
Hazard: The metal snap at the waist can detach posing a choking hazard to infants.
Description: The recall involves Arizona(r) brand newborn and infant girl's and boy's denim pants. They were sold in sizes 0-3 months, 3-6 months and 6-9 months. Only those pants made in Bangladesh are affected; pants made in China are not included in the recall. The country of origin is located on a label sewn into the waistband.
Sold Exclusively at: JCPenney stores nationwide and at http://www.jcp.com/ from July 2008 through October 2008 for about $15.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled product, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09056.html

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Monday, November 24, 2008

Smarty Pants Product of the Week Giveaway! VTech Sing & Play Piano!

Product: VTech Sing & Discover Piano
Retail Value: ~$30
Entry Dates: Today - Sunday, November 30, 2008, 12:00 PM EST
Winner Announcement: Sunday, November 30, 2008 via blog posting and email.
How to Enter: Share your favorite children's song!
Earn up to 3 more entries by posting additional comments (entries) to let me know you have:

  • subscribed to my blog.
  • posted the SmartyPantsMama.com button on your site! (please include blog address)
  • blog about this giveaway or this blog on your blog! (please include blog address)

Other Tiny Details: Product will only be mailed within the 48 continental states. One entry per person. I will contact the winner via e-mail by Monday, December 1, so please be sure I know how to get in touch with you if you win!!! If no contact info is provided it automatically disqualifies your entry. Winner selected by Random.org.

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Sunday, November 23, 2008

Smarty Pants Product of the Week - VTech Sing & Discover Story Piano

Product
VTech Sing & Discover Story Piano
Smarty Pants Review
The VTech Sing & Discover Story Piano has been a tremendous hit in this house! My daughter who will be 25 months this week, was, as usual, my product tester. This product provides many minutes (that’s VERY LONG in toddler time) of entertainment! From the story book to our favorite, the karaoke microphone, my daughter has thoroughly enjoyed playing with this toy. I was impressed, and to be honest a bit surprised, that a product designed for 12+ months could be so worthwhile for a 2 year old. I had assumed that the features would be too “babyish” but that is certainly not the case. The lights, the sounds and the educational components (shapes and colors) makes this a hit for babies AND toddlers! Let Santa know to put it on your munchkin’s list!
Why is it a Smarty Pants of Product?
It’s fun, engaging and very fairly priced. It makes a great addition to a playroom that has gotten bored of the same old, same old!
Retail Value
$24.99 - $49.99 (depending where)
Website
http://www.vtechkids.com/
To purchase via Amazon: Vtech - Sing & Discover Story Piano

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And the winner is.....Andrea V.!

And we have a winner!!!! The is winner of the Smarty Pants Product of the Week Giveaway is ANDREA V! Congratulations!!!! I am certain that you will enjoy sharing this Barbie Playset with a special Munchkin!

Andrea V said...
I read daily, just not a subscriber.


Thank you to the very many readers who participated in the giveaway! I hope you all become regular readers!


Smiles,
Smarty Pants Mama...a.k.a Caroline

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Friday, November 21, 2008

Piece of YUM - Sausage Stuffing

I know we are all in shock that Thanksgiving is less than a week away! Can you believe it?!?

This week I wanted to share one of the most delicious recipes that I have learned from my husband, his mother's cookbook to be exact (http://www.lulu.com/content/4754256). It is the most delicious stuffing that I have ever eaten! I will actually be baking it and bringing it this year to my mom's Thanksgiving dinner. Can't wait!


Sausage Stuffing
3 lbs sausage
1 loaf Italian bread
fresh parsley - chopped, use to taste (not too much)
1 clove garlic - minced
1 16 oz package of mozzarella, cut into small cubes
grated Parmesan - to taste
salt - to taste
pepper - very little
2 eggs, beaten
oil

Heat large pan. Add a little oil. Remove sausage from casing and crumble into pan. Saute sausage until cooked, about 15 minutes. There shouldn't be any liquid left in the pan.

Cut off the crust from bread and soak in warm water. Remove from water and squeeze out water. In a large bowl, add sausage, bread, parsley, garlic, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt and pepper. Mix well with hands.

Just before stuffing bird, or baking in dish, add and mix in the eggs. (The stuffing must be completely cooled before adding the eggs. If the stuffing is made ahead of time, do not add the eggs until ready to use/bake.)

Bake for approximately 1 hour or until heated through.

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Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Recall Wednesday - toy train, pool stix, two-way radio, wall oven, batteries

Below is the CPSC recalls I received this past week. Please be sure to review the information provided. All information below comes directly from the listserve emails sent by the CPSC. Please see the CPSC website for further, more detailed information.
Smiles :-)
Smarty Pants Mama

Name of Product: My Little Train Classics Toy Trains
Hazard: The recalled toy contain small parts which can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.
Description: My Little Train Classics wooden toy trains are available in two styles. One, with a yellow cab, blue body and six red wheels and the other with a blue cab, red boiler, wooden base and four black wheels. The item #5293 is the same for both styles and is located in the lower left hand corner on the front of the package.
Sold at: Various wholesalers and retailers nationwide from March 2007 through October 2008 for about $2.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled product, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09041.html

Name of Product: CORAL Swim 'N Score Pool StixUnits: About 130Retailer: Modell's Sporting Goods, of New York, N.Y.Manufacturer: ERO Industries (no longer in business), of Mount Prospect, Ill.
Hazard: Children can fall or land on these dive sticks in shallow water and suffer impalement injuries. Eye and other facial injuries are also possible. In April 2001, CPSC banned certain types of dive sticks.Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: The recalled Pool Stix are weighted plastic tubes, which stand upright when tossed into water. The sticks are about 8" long and were sold in packs of 6 in various colors. The UPC (#4969382814) is printed on the product's packaging.
Sold at: Modell's Sporting Goods stores nationwide from August 1999 to October 2008 for about $3.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled product, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09043.html


Name of Product: Children's Two-Way Radios
Hazard: The rechargeable batteries in the radios can leak electrolyte, posing a chemical burn hazard to consumers.
Description: The recall involves two-way radios with the 300 mah "CEL" batteries. The walkie talkie style radios are made of pink plastic and come in purple packaging. Product number PR191-2VP is located on the front of the packaging and on the label inside the battery compartment. The batteries are standard AAA Nickle Metal Hydride battery cells with a black wrapper with the battery name 300 mah (CEL) with the date code (TF or RF) on the battery itself.
Sold by: Toys "R" Us Stores nationwide from August 2008 through September 2008 for about $30.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled product, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09044.html


Name of Product: GE(r), GE Profile(tm), Monogram(r) and Kenmore(r) Wall Ovens
Hazard: The extreme heat used in the self-clean cycle can escape, if the wall oven door is removed and incorrectly re-attached by the installer or the consumer. This can pose a fire and burn hazard to consumers.
Description: This recall involves GE wall ovens sold under the following brand names: GE(r), GE Profile(tm), Monogram(r) and Kenmore(r). The wall ovens were sold in white, black, bisque and stainless steel. The following model and serial numbers can be found inside the oven on the left interior wall. For microwave combination ovens, the serial number can be found on the left interior wall of the microwave.
Brand Model Serial Number Begins With
GE/Profile JCT915, JT912, JT915, JT952, JT955, JT965, JT980*, JTP20, JTP25, JTP28, JTP48, JTP50, JTP86 TD, VD, ZD AF, DF, FF, GF, HF, LF, MF, RF, SF, TF, VF, ZFMonogram ZET3058, ZET938, ZET958Kenmore (All modelnumbers start with 911) 4771, 4775, 4781, 4904, 4905, 4923* 2T, 2V, 2Z 3A, 3D, 3F, 3G, 3H, 3L, 3M, 3R, 3S, 3T, 3V, 3Z* Lower oven only
Sold at: Home builders and appliance stores nationwide from October 2002 through December 2004 for between $900 and $3,600.

To see this release on CPSC's web site, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09046.html


Name of Product: DiNotte Lighting Lithium-Ion batteries used with bicycle lights
Hazard: A loose wiring connection and improper venting can cause the battery to overheat, posing a burn hazard to consumers.
Description: DiNotte Lighting Lithium-Ion battery with nylon bags are used with DiNotte 5W Li-Ion bicycle lights and DiNotte 3 LED police lights. The DiNotte logo is printed on the battery cable connector.
Sold at: Bicycle and recreation stores nationwide and by Internet retailers from February 2006 through March 2007 for between $200 and $400.

To see this release on CPSC's web site, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09045.html

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Monday, November 17, 2008

Smarty Pants Product of the Week Giveaway - Barbie I Can Be - TV Chef

Smarty Pants Product Giveaway
Product: Barbie I Can Be - TV Chef
Retail Value: $14.99
Entry Dates: Today - Sunday, November 23, 2008, 12:00 PM EST
Winner Announcement: Sunday, November 23, 2008 via blog posting and email.
How to Enter: Are you Smarty Pants Mama regular reader, or is this your 1st visit? Please share a comment to enter this week's giveaway!
Other Tiny Details: Product will only be mailed within the 48 continental states. One entry per person. I will contact the winner via e-mail by Monday, November 24, so please be sure I know how to get in touch with you if you win!!! If no contact info is provided it automatically disqualifies your entry. Winner selected by Random.org.

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Sunday, November 16, 2008

Smarty Pants Product of the Week - Barbie I Can Be - TV Chef Playset

Product
Barbie I Can Be - TV Chef Playset
Smarty Pants Review
The Barbie I Can Be -TV Chef Playset provides is a modern role model for young girls. The TV Chef comes with all the accessories imimaginable to be sure the chef is already for her filming! The Barbie very much mirrors the popularity of TV chefs from Rachael Ray to Martha Stewart, plus this playset gives young girls the opportunity to whip up a fantastic meal alongside their favorite Barbie doll!
Why is it a Smarty Pants of Product? We constantly yearn for appropriate role models for the little girls in our life. The Barbie I Can Be – TV Chef provides an appropriate example of an aspiring career.
Retail Value
$14.99
Website
http://barbies.everything.com.girl/

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Saturday, November 15, 2008

And the winner is.....Leann!

The winner of Elfing Around is.... Leann!

Congratulations! I am certain that your family will very much enjoy this holiday's visit from the Elfing Around Elf!


Thank you to all the many, many readers for participating in the giveaway!




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Friday, November 14, 2008

Piece of YUM - Corn Casserole

Here's a great side dish for Turkey Day! It's easy and very yummy! Thanks to my aunt for the recipe.

Corn Casserole
Serves 12 - 15

Ingredients
2 whole eggs (beaten)
1 stick butter (melted)
1 can cream corn
1 can kernel corn (drained)
1 pt. sour cream
1 box Jiffy cornbread mix
2 tablespoons sugar

Mix together. Pour in glass 9x13. Bake at 325 for 45-60 minutes.
Enjoy!

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Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Recall Wednesday - Yin Yang Necklace

Below is the CPSC recall I received this past week. Please be sure to review the information provided. All information below comes directly from the listserve emails sent by the CPSC. Please see the CPSC website for further, more detailed information.

Name of Product: Best Friends Yin Yang Necklaces Sets
Hazard: The recalled necklaces contain high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.
Description: This recall involves a set of two necklaces that have a silver-colored metal bead type chain and a lobster-claw clasp. One of the necklaces has a single, metal pendant with the word "Best" attached to a black, yin metal pendant. The other necklace has the word "Friends" attached to a white, yang metal pendant.
Sold at: Claire's stores nationwide from April 2007 through August 2008 for about $8.
To see this release on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled product, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09039.html

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Sunday, November 9, 2008

Smarty Pants Product of the Week - Elfing Around

Product
Elfing Around
Smarty Pants Review
What a wonderful idea!!! Elfing Around provides the opportunity to start a great, fun tradition with your munchkins! Each Elfing Around package includes a tremendous amount of activities, from tattoos to a letter from your Elf! Most importantly your family Elf arrives, ready to spend the pre-Christmas weeks getting your munchkins even more excited!
Very clear directions are included, to guide you on the steps to introduce the Elf to your home. Your child will anticipate waking up each morning before Christmas to find the Elf and see what note he/she has left behind.
Last year I used a similar type Elf with a class of Pre-K/Kindergarten students. I would place the Elf in a different location each morning. The Elf was there on behalf of Santa to monitor the behavior of the students. Wow, how it worked! What I especially like about Elfing Around, is that it goes beyond the behavior monitoring, to include a Parent Adventure Guide Book. This book does all the thinking and creativity for you! It’s just great!
Why is it a Smarty Pants of Product?
I truly value tradition. I think it is very important to instill important, memorable traditions for your family. Elfing Around is a fantastic tradition to continue to keep Christmas alive in your home. I hope you each consider bring an Elfing Around into your homes for this holiday season!
Retail Value $30
Smarty Pants Product Giveaway
Product: Elfing Around
Retail Value: $30
Entry Dates: Today - Sunday, November 16, 2008, 12:00 PM EST
Winner Announcement: Sunday, November 16, 2008 via blog posting and email.
How to Enter: Share your favorite 'Free Stuff' that is provided on www.elfingaround.com that can be used with your elf!
Other Tiny Details: Product will only be mailed within the 48 continental states. One entry per person. I will contact the winner via e-mail by Monday, November 17, so please be sure I know how to get in touch with you if you win!!! If no contact info is provided it automatically disqualifies your entry. Winner selected by Random.org.

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And the winner is.....Renee!!

And the winner is...Renee!
Congratulations Renee for winning the Smarty Pants Product of the Week, the Scentsy Warmer and Wax!


Renee said...
I would love to try the cinnamon cider scent! It sounds perfect for fall.cookiert at yahoo.com
November 8, 2008 4:32 PM


Thank you readers for the record breaking number of contest entries!


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Friday, November 7, 2008

A Piece of YUM! - Pumpkin Bread

Here's a yummy autumn recipe for you to try this weekend! It's easy and YUMMY!

Pumpkin Bread

Dry Ingredients
2 cups sugar
3 1/3 cups flour
1 tsp salt
2 tsp baking soda
2 tsp nutmeg
3 tsp cinnamon
1.2 tsp cloves
1 cup raisins
1 cup nuts (optional)


Wet Ingredients
4 eggs
1 cup oil
2 cups pumpkin (1 small 15 oz can)
2/3 cups water

Mix dry ingredients well.
Mix wet ingredients well.
Mix dry and wet together.
Grease 2 bread pans (5x9) or 3 (4x8)

Bake 1 hour at 325.

Enjoy!

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Thursday, November 6, 2008

Piece of the Week - Paper Towel Roll

Piece of the Week # 5 - The Paper Towel Roll

Ok, I need ideas from my SMART MAMA readers!!! Besides a handy telescope or megaphone, how can this "green" family reuse the near half a dozen paper towel rolls that sit in our recycling can each month??? Please post a comment with your paper towel idea!


Recap for Week #4 - My Pumpkin!!!

Well, I didn't receive any ideas electronically but I was kindly reminded by my husband to make some yummy pumpkin pie!!! That's the plan for the weekend!!!

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Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Recall Wednesday - Many items this week!

Below are the CPSC recalls I have received over the past week. Please be sure to review the information provided. All information below comes directly from the listserve emails I received. Please see the CPSC website for further, more detailed information.
Name of Product: Cybex Treadmills
Hazard: The treadmills can speed up unexpectedly while in use due to a malfunction with the lower control board, posing a fall hazard to consumers.
Description: The recall involves the Cybex 445T, 455T, 530T, 450T, 500T, 515T, and 520T treadmill models. The treadmills are black and gray with rectangular uprights. The 530T style treadmill is 81 inches long by 32 inches wide. The 445T style treadmill is 72 inches long by 32 inches wide. The treadmills have a display panel on a console as wide as the treadmill. "Cybex" and the model number are written on the console.
Sold at: Cybex International and Cybex dealers nationwide from January 2001 through September 2008 for between $5,500 and $7,000.
To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled products, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09026.html


Name of Product: Ghost Tealight Holders
Hazard: The recalled tealight holder can ignite posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers.
Description: The recalled product is a metal tealight candle holder in the shape of ghost. The product is white with a black base. They were sold by Crate & Barrel as a set of 3 (SKU #370-846 and/or Catalog Item #X2006) and by other retailers as individual units (SKU #770123). The SKU can be located on the product's packaging.
Sold through: Crate & Barrel's October catalog and stores nationwide from August 2008 to October 2008 for about $10 for a set of 3, and other houseware retail stores nationwide from August 2008 to October 2008 for between $3 and $5 for individually packaged units.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including a picture of the recalled products, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09027.html


Name of Product: Casper the Friendly Ghost(r) Halloween Mini-Figurines
Hazard: The recalled Halloween figurines contain high levels of lead in the paint.
Description: The recalled Casper the Friendly Ghost(r) mini-figurines are made of resin and paper, and are three inches tall. They were sold in mini bags decorated with a spider and web design. The Casper the Friendly Ghost(r) figurines are dressed as: Dracula in a red spider bag, Skeleton in a green spider bag, Devil in a purple spider bag, Mummy in an orange spider bag, Casper(r) in a blue spider bag, and Wendy the Witch(r) is in a yellow spider bag. The figurines are stamped with TM & (c)Harvey Ent. "Coyne's & Company" and "CP1030" are printed on a white sticker on the bottom of the bags.
Sold by: Gift, specialty, card, and drug stores nationwide from June 2005 through September 2008 for between $1 and $3.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled products, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09028.html


Name of Product: Wooden Toys
Hazard: Small parts can detach and break from the toy, posing a choking hazard to young children. In addition, the size of the rattle handle violates voluntary rattle standards.
Description: This recall involves three models of wooden toys. Moee the car, Cubby the stackable bear and the Bell rattle. The toys are painted in glossy red, orange, green, red, black and yellow.
Sold at: Toy specialty stores in Alaska, California, Colorado, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington from April 2008 through September 2008 for between $12 and $22.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled product, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09030.html


Name of Product: Homelite Chain Saws
Hazard: The chain brake can fail to stop the chain on its first application, posing a risk of laceration to consumers.
Description: This recall involves Homelite brand chain saws with the following model numbers: UT10514, UT10516, UT10517, UT10518, UT10520, UT10540, UT10560 and UT10918. Affected chain saws have manufacture date between November 2007 and August 2008. Both the model number and the date of manufacture appear on the chain saw's data plate, located beneath the rear handle of the saw. Products with a green "dot" sticker under the bottom side of the handle area and on the outside of the package are not subject to this recall.
Sold exclusively at: Home Depot stores nationwide between December 2007 and October 2008 for between $110 and $200.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled product, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09031.html


Name of Product: Fit & Fresh(tm) Smooth Blend Mixers
Hazard: While placing the cup on or off the base of the mixer, the mixer can unexpectedly turn on, activating the blade. This can pose a serious laceration hazard to consumers.
Description: This recall involves Fit & Fresh(tm) Smooth Blend Mixers with item number 770FF and model number SB-19. The white mixers have four components - a base unit, blade assembly, blending cup and cap. Fit & Fresh(tm) is printed on the front of the base. The recalled mixers can be identified by the date code, a four-digit number located on the bottom of the base. Date codes included in the recall are: 2707, 4407, 5207 and 0308.
Sold at: Longs, GNC and Vitamin Shoppe stores nationwide and at http://www.amazon.com/ from September 2007 through August 2008 for about $25.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled product, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09032.html


Name of Product: DYMO(r) LabelWriter(r) Power Adapters used with printers
Hazard: The power adapters can fail, causing the printer to overheat. This can pose a burn hazard to consumers.
Description: This recall involves the external power adapters sold with the following DYMO LabelWriter(r) 400 series printers: DYMO LabelWriter 400, DYMO LabelWriter 400 Turbo, DYMO LabelWriter Twin Turbo, DYMO LabelWriter Duo and DYMO Desktop Mailing Solution with housing date codes 2407, 2507, 2607 or 2707. The date code is printed on the plastic housing of the adapter. Power adapters with "RoHS" printed on the top right of the product label are not included in this recall.
Sold by: Office supply stores, discount retailers, and various specialty retailers nationwide from September 2007 through October 2008 for between $100 and $250.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled product, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09033.html


Name of Product: Lithium-Ion Batteries used in Hewlett-Packard, Toshiba and Dell Notebook Computers
Hazard: These lithium-ion batteries can overheat, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers.
Description: The recalled batteries were included with, and sold separately for use in, the following notebook computer models:Computer Manufacturer: Units(Notebook Model)== Battery Model ==Hewlett-Packard: About 32,000(HP Pavilion: dv1000, dv8000 and zd8000)(Compaq Presario: v2000 and v2400)(HP Compaq: nc6110, nc6120, nc6140, nc6220, nc6230, nx4800, nx4820, nx6110, nx6120, nx9600)== Recalled batteries will have a bar code label starting with A0, L0, L1 or GC ==Toshiba: About 3,000(Satellite: A70/A75, P30/P5, M30X/M35X, M50/M55)(Tecra: A3, A5, S2)== n/a ==Dell: About 150(Latitude: 110L)(Inspiron: 1100, 1150, 5100, 5150, 5160)== OU091 ==The battery model is located on the battery's label.
Sold by: Computers with the recalled batteries were sold directly by Hewlett-Packard, Toshiba and Dell, through computer and electronics stores nationwide, and through various Web retailers for between $700 and $3000. The batteries were also sold separately for between $100 and $160.Hewlett-Packard - sold from December 2004 through June 2006Toshiba - sold from April 2005 to October 2005Dell - shipped between November 2004 and November 2005Battery Cells

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled product, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09035.html

Name of Product: Krylon "Outdoor Spaces" UV Fabric Protector
Hazard: Overexposure to fumes, vapor or spray mist from the product can pose a serious respiratory hazard to consumers.
Description: The recall involves Krylon "Outdoor Spaces" UV Fabric Protector, which is an aerosol coating used to protect fabric. The part number (#2900) is printed above the UPC (724504029007) on the side of the can. The front of the 11-ounce aerosol can is tan with a picture of a patio containing outdoor furniture. "UV Fabric Protector" and "Outdoor Spaces" are also printed on the front of the can.
Sold at: Wal-Mart, Ace Hardware and other retail stores nationwide from January 2006 through September 2008 for about $7.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled product, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09036.html


Name of Product: Toy Xylophones
Hazard: Surface paint on the toy xylophone contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.
Description: This recall involves a miniature toy xylophone with item number KW20119. The toy xylophone measures about 12 inches long by 5 inches wide. It has a lavender frame, a lavender mallet, and four bars which are orange, yellow, green, and white. The item number can be found on the packaging.
Sold at: Dollar Zone "giant", Sam 99 Cent Store, and 99 Cents Mart in Texas from December 2007 through February 2008 for about $1.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled product, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09037.html

Name of Product: "Mini-Televisor" Toys
Hazard: Surface coating on the toy television could contain excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.
Description: This recall involves a plastic TV toy. This plastic TV toy has a microphone and is powered by 2 AA size batteries. There is a "TV Painting Board" sticker label on the front panel and carrying handle of the toy.
Sold at: OKK Trading's Web site at http://www.okktoys.com/ from July 2008 through September 2008 for about $1.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled product, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09038.html

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