Little Green Trike Shoe Company - Red, White & Blue SALE

Hurry! Little Green Trike Shoe Company is having a Red, White & Blue Sale! Select Squeaky Feet shoes are marked down 50%! The sale is only good through Saturday June 22nd, 2013 so go take a peek and get them in time for the 4th! (and don't worry the squeaker is optional)

I'm loving these adorable "Kevin" in Royal Blue and Red for my boys! Just $17.50! CUTE!

Check out the SALE and happy shopping!

Keeping Cool In the Sun Giveaway Hop #keepingcool - Twig Footwear Giveaway

The sun is shining and the weather is getting warmer! That must mean Summer is here!

  I'm partnering with the Blogging Mamas Network on their latest Event to help you Keep Cool in the Sun!

I've joined a great group of bloggers who all have a ton of prizes to help celebrate the Summer season and give you the chance to win! So what are you waiting for? Check out my fantastic giveaway then hop to the other participating blogs as well!

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For my giveaway you not only have the chance to win a fantastic pair of summer shoes for your little one, but also get to know more about the company who makes these shoes as well.

Depending on your little boy's shoe size you can either win the Adam (big kids) or the Sailor (little kids)!

Twig is a small family run business and stands for, Quality, Style and Comfort. They believe in taking care of their customers. If you call them, you will speak directly to the owners. And if you email them, you will receive a personalized email from a Twig family member. Something that is rare these days.

And what is more important is the quality of shoes you will be putting on your kids. Twig believes in good foot health over fashion. They know that poor footwear as children will lead to poor foot health as an adult. Their shoes are made from only the best natural materials and are hand made in Mexico. They are not a big assembly line process like mass produced brands and therefor take great care in each and every pair of shoes that is made.

Twig offers:
- Shoes made from the best natural materials.
- Durability to stand up and look good after several months.
- Trend right, fashionable footwear.
- Product with strong emotional appeal.
- Twig Footwear is a family-owned small business with BIG dreams!
- Selling to other small businesses. Not for the mass market.

We had a chance to review the "Walter" style last year and they have been one of the best shoes we have owned. Big Brother has been wearing those shoes a ton and they still look as good as the day we got them. I love that if I'm going to spend money on good quality items that they can also be handed down to Little Brother as well. (You can read more about Twig and see detailed photos of these shoes here)

Twig Footwear has in my opinion some of the best kids shoes on the market. They are cute and fashionable and age appropriate. Your child will not only have on the cutest and most stylish shoes but I bet their feet will be the most comfortable as well.

Twig firmly believes in supporting local Mom & Pop stores and keeping small businesses alive. I also share this belief and I'm proud to be sharing Twig with you today. Please enter to win these fantastic shoes and tell your friends. Support Twig and see what real service and quality is all about. You can visit them on Facebook as well and have real conversation with the owners too!

This giveaway is for the BOYS! And you know how I love cute little boy shoes. But don't despair if you have girls because coming soon will be a girls giveaway as well!

I'm seriously in love with the Sailor shoe! I can't wait to see who wins! Good Luck!

According to Jenny, So Easy Being Green, the Blogging Mamas Network, and the Keeping Cool in the Sun participating bloggers are not responsible for sponsors who do not fulfill prize obligations. 
a Rafflecopter giveaway

 Be sure to enter to win the GRAND PRIZES for this Event too!  You have a chance to win...

 

In the KIDS package you could win:  a pair of Julbo USA looping sunglasses for baby, a trio of TruKids products including Sunny Days sunscreen and Hero Stick, a Hearthsong Camping Tent {chair not included}, a Swim Diaper from Red Barn Cloth Diapers, and a reusable snack tube SqueeZurts Starter Kit!

AND

A second prize package including a $100 Gift Certificate to Claudia Alan Eyewear and Winner's Choice of any item from UV Skinz - makers of protective sunwear!

Enter the GRAND PRIZES HERE!

Tommy Hilfiger Kids Douglas Boat Shoes Review

Have I told you how much I love kids shoes? Oh yes...just a few HUNDRED times..ok ok. But really I do. And not just any kids shoes, but high quality, built to last, look good and cute kids shoes!

So imagine my surprise at the adorable and trendy Tommy Hilfiger Kids Douglas Boat Shoes that arrived for Big Brother to review! Tommy Hilfiger isn't a brand I would normally associate with kids, but I have to say they did an excellent job!

The shoes are a faux leather with a moc stitched toe, 360 degree nautical lacing, a soft squishy very comfortable footbed and a rubber traction outsole. Everything you need to make the shoe stylish and comfortable. Big Brother loved the feel of these from the moment he stepped into them, in fact they are so comfortable, Little Brother also didn't want to take them off, not caring that they are WAY too big for him!

What I absolutely love about these shoes is how versatile they are. They can be casual, dress or sporty. You can wear them with shorts or pants and with or without socks. They are just the right style to go with any outfit. These would make the perfect pair of shoes for your little boys at school. Nice enough for school, yet sturdy and sporty enough for running around at recess! 

The Douglas boat shoes are the complete package and seem to run very true to size. You can find them on Shoes.com in either Navy or Brown. Sizes vary depending on color and availability and they retail for $44.99.
Disclosure: I received this product for the purpose of review. I did not receive any compensation for this review. The opinions in my reviews are my own, and others’ opinions may vary. This post was written by me and not edited by anyone.

Little Feet Children's Shoes - Merrell Tailspin Review

I've mentioned before how much I love kids shoes. I'm not sure why. Maybe it's because they are so small and cute, maybe because they are fun and funky, maybe because I tend to gravitate to the same pairs of shoes in my closet and I'm not the shoe hound most women are. I just love kids shoes instead.

But did you know that having good quality shoes for your children's growing feet is super important. Just like giving them the proper nutrition, providing quality shoes for their feet is just as important. We need to support the stores and shoe companies that can provide the knowledge and support in choosing the correct pairs of shoes and sizes for our little ones.

Little Feet is one of these special retailers that focus only on providing premier quality shoes and ensuring you get the proper fit. Little Feet is also a fellow Oregonian and there is nothing I like better than supporting local!

About Little Feet
Little Feet is a family owned business and they have over 60 years of combined retail shoe experience. Established in 2006 by Orthopedic surgeons after realizing the shortage of quality footwear for children, they sought to give parents a better option. After consulting with a children's shoe expert they started Little Feet to provide quality footwear, consultation and proper fitting.

Little Feet only carries what they consider premier quality shoes and rely on wear and tear and research and development as being key factors in their inventory selections.

Little Feet/ Merrell Tailspin Toggle Shoes Review
Nothing makes me happier than to support a local store. And even though Little Feet isn't right in my neighborhood I can still visit their web site and chat with them about any of my shoe buying decisions online or by phone.

As all of the shoes they carry are top of the line shoes for children you can feel good about any purchase you make with Little Feet. With many brands to choose from and many styles per brand, you are bound to find the perfect shoe. I was also very impressed to see many of the shoes they carry come in wide width. They want you to have the precise custom fit for your children's growing feet.

Also as with anything price is a huge factor in decision making. I was so happy to see that most of their shoes are on sale or priced lower than many other stores. They even offer FREE SHIPPING on all orders placed in the US. So not only can you save money, but you can get top notch customer service and that small town store feel, all online!

The shoes I had the opportunity to review from Little Feet couldn't have been a more perfect pick for Big Brother. We reviewed the Merrell Tailspin Toggle. Why so perfect? Because the Merrell Tailspin is a sturdy rugged shoe that is meant for adventures, outdoors, camping and boys! Most importantly, they are also waterproof! For an outdoorsy camping adventure family living in Oregon, these shoes were meant for us!

Other features that make these shoes so awesome are the elastic cord and lock lacing system. Big Brother loves to put on his own shoes and even though these aren't the velcro he is used to, he can do this easily and be out the door. They also have a breathable mesh lining that is treated with an antimicrobial solution to resist odor. Tell me that is not ideal for stinky boy shoes?!!

The tread is thick and sturdy and Big Brother will be able to put lots of mileage on these shoes. He is now to the age where shoes are starting to get worn out and used and abused a lot more. The footbed is soft and Big Brother loved the feel immediately when he put them on. He has had tennis shoes and boots before, but nothing like this boot/shoe combo! This very well may be our go to shoes from now on, as these are nice and stylish enough to be worn with a nice casual outfit, or for tearing it up outside!

If you have never really checked out the Merrell line of shoes, I highly suggest you take a closer look at them. This is just one of many very nice looking shoes as well as their line of quality boots. I absolutely love that these are waterproof, that is one feature that is just super smart for kids shoes.

I am so happy to have found and had the opportunity to work with Little Feet. And although I know many of you who will read this won't be located in Oregon, but still would love your support to a small family owned business who truly cares about your child's feet.

Have a question about shoes or feet? Check out Little Feet on Facebook or send them a tweet! They are happy to answer your questions and help in any way they can! Also make sure to check out their awesome selection of kids shoes. Huge selection for both girls and boys. Many fun unique styles.

WIN IT: So did you check out the shoe selection? Well one lucky winner is going to receive a $35 Gift Certificate to Little Feet Online Store as part of the Get Moving 2013 Giveaway Hop! $35 can go a long ways toward a quality pair of shoes that will keep your little ones active and on their toes this year! Head on over and ENTER! Good Luck!

Disclosure: I received this product for the purpose of review. I did not receive any compensation for this review. The opinions in my reviews are my own, and others’ opinions may vary. This post was written by me and not edited by anyone.

Soft Star Shoes Review

I recently got to do something that is very rare in the blogging world. Or at least it is to me and my blog. I was able to go physically see where my review item was made and meet a the fabulous team behind the scenes!

I came across Soft Star Shoes just by chance online. I was excited and shocked to see they were located  in Corvallis, Oregon. A town I have visited many many times, yet I had never heard of them. What is even more rare is that each and every shoe is hand made right in their shop in Corvallis.

As I was lucky enough to have the chance to review a pair of their shoes and they were close enough to drive and visit, the boys and I packed up the car to go for a visit and check them out!

Arriving at Soft Star Shoes we entered into a fun, whimsical atmosphere that totally fits the feel and designs of their shoes.

About Soft Star
Soft Star was started in 1984 by Tim Oliver and his wife Jeanie. They started the company as young parents who were looking for a soft, quality shoe for their little girl. They first started in a garage in California, then a bus in Texas before settling in Corvallis.

In 2005, Larkin and Tricia partnered up with Tim to introduce more people to Soft Star. And again in 2010 Soft Star expanded its line of leather moccasins to include the RunAmoc, a shoe for minimal or barefoot runners.

Soft Stars Core Values
• Make our workshop a wonderful place work: A creative, energizing and efficient workspace. An open, honest atmosphere where we work with mutual respect and dignity. A place where our families and community are welcome and integrated.

• Share the handcrafted experience with our customers making unique, beautiful, comfortable and quality footwear while encouraging direct interaction via excellent customer service

• Walk lightly on the earth: Conserve raw materials by thoughtful use. Minimize our environmental footprint by reducing waste, reusing and recycling.

Soft Star Review
I had the opportunity to review the Rambler shoe in colors Ocean and Ultra Blue. The shoes themselves are adorable! Super soft leather, easy to put on and a cute little star detail on the tongue. They have smooth leather uppers and suede innersole. They also feature a flexible rubber sole for durability and an elastic band that makes the shoe easy to get on. They are also water resistant!

NOTE: All leather at Soft Star is formaldehyde free and meet the highest safety standards! See more about their Citizen of the Earth stamp! (Way too much cool stuff to list!)

Little Brother put on the shoes with no problems at all. We tried them with and without socks and they stayed on perfectly! They look cute with any outfit and are so nice to throw on quickly.

The colors are bright and bold and very stylish. We had the opportunity in our visit to see Soft Star's wall of leather! Just look at all the colors. With Soft Star Shoes each shoe is handcrafted right there in their workshop, meaning you can design your own! You choose the colors and style and they cut the leather, soling and sheepskin and begin building your custom shoe! It is all very cool see the process and to know your shoes are coming straight from an Oregon town, all made in the USA! Awesome!

They don't just make shoes for kids. In fact they make so many varieties of shoes for men, women and children. One of their most popular right now is their RunAmoc. A barefoot minimalist running shoe. People swear by them, and they do look really comfortable. I didn't try the RunAmoc, but I did slip my foot in a black Merry Jane. Oh my gosh, so comfortable, so soft, the kind of shoes you don't want to take off. I'd have to say they look pretty stylish too!

The "Elves" at Soft Star were all very friendly and hard at work. It was so great for them to take time and show us around. I also want to mention that Soft Star does not waste anything when making their shoes. They are very very conscious in how much scrap is left after making the shoes. In fact they even have a leather scrap box where anybody can come grab some scraps to use on their own projects for free! All they ask is that you share your project with them! They have had a quilt, hacky sacks, skirts and more all made from their scrap bin! I love it! So cool! We picked up a few scraps on our visit but I'm still brainstorming on what I want to do with them. Suggestions? You can also purchase a one pound bag of leather scraps on their website, so get creative!

Soft Star also has a special scrap box to make Playful Pancakes Cat Toys. The cat toys are catnip-filled and are just $4.50. Inspired by their friend Cassidy, 100% of the proceeds of each toy goes to Kids For Kids, an organization that combats hunger in Sudan.

I could go on and on about Soft Star. But why not find out for yourself. You can find Soft Star on Facebook, Twitter and other popular social media sites. It is really fun to see on Facebook the custom orders that come through.

Special thanks to resident elf Martin for taking time out of his day to show us around and let the boys play around the store. What a fun atmosphere and we hope we can come back and visit soon! And of course pick up a new pair of Soft Stars!

Disclosure: I received this product for the purpose of review. I did not receive any compensation for this review. The opinions in my reviews are my own, and others’ opinions may vary. This post was written by me and not edited by anyone.

Twig Kids Footwear Review & Giveaway

Both of my boys feet have grown like crazy this Summer! All of a sudden Big Brother had his sandals and nothing else for shoes that fit! How does that happen so quickly! One day they all fit, the next none!

It was perfect timing that I recently had the opportunity to work with Twig Footwear. I'd spotted Twig online before but never had encountered them in a local store for a better look. After working on my review with Twig, I've not only grown to love their shoes, but their company and what they stand for as well. Read on to see what makes Twig unique and a company I'm proud to support.

About Twig

Twig Footwear was Started by Ken and his wife Margo after Ken's previous job was eliminated. After a high profile job interview and the realization that most work environments would not reflect his morals and values, Ken decided he would have to start his own company to have the environment he was searching for.

With Ken's 18 years of shoe industry knowledge, he wrote up a business plan. In order to finance this new plan and endeavor, the family unanimously decided to sell their home, move and make a major lifestyle change to follow their dream.

Twig is a family run business and stands for, Quality. Style and Comfort. They believe in taking care of their customers. If you call them, you will speak directly to the owners. And if you email them, you will receive a personalized email from a Twig family member. Something that is rare these days.

Twig Footwear Review

I was excited to have the opportunity to review Twig shoes for Big Brother. Little did I know in the process I would not only be finding out about the shoes themselves, but building a friendship with the family at Twig.

In the many online conversations with Ken, the owner. I've learned more and more insight about the company and what they believe in. This is a company that not only talks the talk but walks the walk as well. They are involved 100% in what goes on with EACH pair of shoes. 

Twig firmly believes in supporting local Mom and Pop stores. Nearly all of their distribution is done with these types of retailers. In fact while any Twig employee is traveling they MUST dine only at local restaurants as well.

All Twig shoes are made in Mexico and only out of leather or canvas. These materials let your child's foot breathe. (Did you know the average child's foot perspires a pint of moisture per day?!? - yuck!)

When Big Brother placed his foot in the shoe, the first thing out of his mouth was..."These are soft!" I can honestly say I don't think he has ever said or noticed anything about other shoes before. His shoes were so soft inside because all Twig shoes have padded footbeds and soft leather linings. No arch support, to let growing feet grow...naturally!

We reviewed the 'Walter' style boys shoe in blue. And let me tell you they are N.I.C.E! These shoes are built to last my rough and tumble boys. In fact I'm nearly certain these will survive Big Brother and be excellent hand me downs for Little Brother later. 

The have a durable rubber sole with super traction and a rubber toe cap, part of which will keep these shoes looking great for a long time. They are leather lined and have two durable velcro closures. These closure are not your usual tiny piece of velcro either, but a nice generous piece for easy sizing. I love the small blue striping for just enough color and these shoes are nice enough to be dress shoes, yet casual enough to be dressed down with jeans.

Big Brother truly loves these shoes and it makes me happy knowing they are so comfortable on his feet! The "Walter" is priced at $61.95. And remember you are not paying and supporting a big corporation for a cheap pair of poorly made shoes, but a family just like mine or yours that is selling a very nice quality shoe that is made to last. You can now purchase shoes straight from Twig's website! $5 flat rate shipping and easy, peasy returns.

I love all of the Twig shoes. But here a few of my other favorites too. All Twig designs are age appropriate, they feel kids already grow up too fast, why rush it!

Ken and the Twig family are also very smart and creative. In my review box I also received a pair of Spox. A 3 pack of socks. A pair with a spare. A new product from Twig. You know the brand new pair of socks you get, and first trip through the wash your missing one. Well not anymore! You have a "spare" just waiting for this opportunity! How incredibly smart! No more wasted socks and money!

Make sure to keep up to date with new shoes, locations and more with Twig on Facebook and Twitter! Show them some love, tell them about your small business or restaurant. They might just be in your neighborhood and visit you next!  And as stated above, you will get a personal response from them!

WIN IT: I'm super excited to tell you that Twig Footwear is giving you a chance to try their shoes for FREE! A $60 gift certificate to Twig's online store is up for grabs in the upcoming Green Family Giveaway! The giveaway starts September 15th - 30th right here on my blog! So make sure to come back and enter! Kids shoes are one thing you will never have too many of! Especially if they are quality made like Twig! ENTER HERE!

Disclosure: I received this product for the purpose of review. I did not receive any compensation for this review. The opinions in my reviews are my own, and others’ opinions may vary. This post was written by me and not edited by anyone.