Goodbye to Little Window Shoppe

May 18, 2009 by Emily · 62 Comments 

My Dearest Window Shoppe Readers and Friends,

This post has taken me over a month to write - partly because this is my last post on this blog. I am so sad to announce that as of today, Little Window Shoppe is closing for good.

The decision was not taken lightly and was really hard to make, but a combination of factors came together that brought me to this post…very much wanting to spend more time with my family (I have a very busy two year old who needs more mommy-time), ;) getting ready for baby #2 in November (I’ve been out sick for two months! But it’s totally worth it as we’re so excited to have a new baby come to our family), and finally getting ready for a move to a new state with my family this Summer (my hubby is starting a new job).

goodbye

{Photo source: Wilson Library Reserve}

I have learned so much from blogging at Little Window Shoppe and will be forever grateful for the kind friends I have made and the amazing experiences that I have had here!! Thank you so much for taking time to make Little Window shoppe a part of your lives and for being such a fantastic community. And also, thank you for all of the nice emails and inquiries about how we are doing.

Before I say goodbye for good, I want to thank a few people who helped me along the way:

First and foremost, my husband Scott. He is an incredibly supportive husband and friend and was the first person to listen to my every idea and concern throughout my blogging adventures. He has also been Superman at my house and has cooked, cleaned, taken care of our two year old and helped me out while I was sick over the last seven weeks! I couldn’t ask for a better man in my life and I love him so much!!

I also wanted to thank Holly of Tutus and Turtles. She is so cool and listened and talked to me for hours on the phone as I worked out how I would end my Window Shoppe blogging days. Her blog has been an inspiration to me from the beginning and I think that her blog ideas rock!!

Finally, I wanted to thank each of the writers and contributors for Little Window Shoppe. Each of them had creative and beautiful ideas to share and I’m so grateful and honored that they wanted to be part of this blog with me. They have become some of my dearest friends and were the best group of writers a blog ever had! They even sent me tulips when I was sick (just about made me cry, I felt so loved).

Please visit each of their blogs to keep up with their cool ideas!

Also, I wanted to leave you with a few additional recommendations of blogs I love - in case you are looking for new places to subscribe:

  • www.simplemom.net - this is my absolute favorite blog to follow…it has the best family tips and ideas that make sense, the ideas are easy to follow and I just can’t get enough of its coolness.
  • www.howaboutorange.blogspot.com - artsy, tons of crafts, diy ideas, printouts, and the best time-wasters ever. ;)
  • www.thepioneerwoman.com - recipes, photoshop tutorials, photography 101, down-to-earth life.
  • www.makeandtakes.com - the coolest (and most creative) kids crafts ever!
  • www.metropolitanmama.net - and for all you contest lovers, this Metro Mama has excellent giveaways all of the time - and she writes helpful articles with tips for parents. Love it.

There are so many more…but I think this is a great start.

If you want to stay in touch with me, you can follow me at a few sites:

  • www.emilyjune.com (I’ll still be designing blogs and websites - starting again this fall). 
  • I’m also going to be checking in and updating my facebook page and my family blog regularly. They will have weekly updates of my family life and the cool fun things we are doing. ;)

**If you want to stay in touch with me at my family blog or on facebook, just email me or leave a comment letting me know and I’ll send you the links.**

Thank you again for making this the best blogging experience I have ever had!!
Always,
Emily

Win a Bossy Boots Design Scarf

April 7, 2009 by Emily · 312 Comments 

Contest Update:
We have a winner!! The randomly chosen winner for this contest is: #276 Cathleen - Congratulations! Thank you to everyone who participated.

When you wrap yourself in one of these soft, luxurious, hand knit scarves from Bossy Boots Design, you are in for a treat. Made with beautiful stitches and only the best yarn, these textured scarves are the perfect solution to the lingering Spring chill.

bossy-boots

Discount:

Free-shipping for all domestic USA orders until the end of April.

Win It:

One lucky Window Shoppe Reader will win this gorgeous Dick and Jane Bluff Scarf from Bossy Boots Design! Hand knit with 100% Merino wool from England, the clean modern lines of this urban scarf are perfect for anyone! ($68 value).

To Enter:

Simply take a peek at the shoppe and then leave a quick comment letting us know which item is your favorite. This giveaway ends on Tuesday, April 14th at midnight PST. The winner will be chosen randomly and will be announced at this post Wednesday, April 15th. Good luck, everyone!! (Please feel free to read our contest rules for additional details - this contest is currently open to domestic U.S. residents only.)

(Optional) For extra entries:

  • Are you a Subscriber? Just let us know you’re subscribed to Little Window Shoppe in an additional comment.
  • And (Or) Blog about this giveaway. Simply let us know about your blog link in an additional comment.
  • And (Or) Add this contest to Twitter. Simply let us know about it with your Twitter name in an additional comment.

The Perfect Baby Handbook Giveaway

April 1, 2009 by Emily · 155 Comments 

Contest Update:
We have five winners!! The randomly chosen winners for this contest are: #93 Jenny M, #72 Meg T, #123 Beth S, #112 Devon, #65 Christian - Congratulations! Thank you to everyone who participated!

Finally…perfection made easy! ;) Can I just tell you how much I love The Perfect Baby Handbook? Seriously, it’s hilarious and had me laughing from the start. This book is a comic relief for anxious new parents and it makes you laugh at the pressures you may feel when trying to become the “perfect parents” and trying to raise the ”perfect children.”

This book will teach you important things like how to help your infant develop a signature walk, what to include in the perfect nursery, secrets to immortalizing your miracle on film, which baby names are flawless from places like IKEA and Ralph Lauren, how to baby-proof everything on earth and more…

perfect-baby-handbookI actually had the opportunity to interview the author Dale Hrabi himself! I really liked his cool and down to earth perspective - here are a few excerpts from our interview:

Me: What inspired you to write this book?

Dale: “Well, the idea started about three years ago, when all my three best female friends got pregnant at the same time in their early 30s, and, being a nosy, supportive friend, I wanted to know everything, and was told more than I bargained for. One friend in particular got me thinking about the pressures of modern parenthood. The books were freaking her out with their wildly contradictory advice.

Meanwhile, in the hothouse of Manhattan’s competitive parenting culture, she and my other friends were, by their own admission, falling prey to pretty irrational anxieties. Should we, in fact, invest $1000 on a stroller? That woman has four strollers…does she know something we don’t ? How can woman B do it all?

I used to try to tease my friends into laughing about it all, and tell them jokes to help them regain perspective. As someone who’s learned that anxiety is often the root of comedy, I began to see the material for a book that might provide comic relief for other parents going through the same thing.

As I began my research in earnest (about two years ago), I put together a massive file of news clippings, read books like Carl Honore’s UNDER PRESSURE: Rescuing childhood from the culture of hyper-parenting (or maybe that came later), The Price of Privilege, The Three Martini Playdate, and others. It became clear that my friends were just part of a much larger phenomenon, sometimes called “super-parenting” or “over-parenting.”

My book also, I think, satirizes the whole idea of giftedness—and, since I was kind of a gifted wanna-be as a kid, I’ve always been fascinated by concepts like identity, originality, precociousness, uniqueness. So the opportunity to work through that fascination was another incentive, too.”

Me: What do you hope parents will take with them after reading the book?

Dale: “Well, it is a humor-book, so I hardly expect it to be life-changing. Ideally, though, I’d say that I hope parents get at least a couple laughs, and maybe a little perspective on their more relentlessly over-achieving friends, or even themselves.

The ‘excessive motivation’ I talk about starts with love and concern–it’s just incredibly easy in this culture and especially the current economy to become anxious that your baby will ‘fall behind.’ So those Mommy & Me classes start to seem crucial…but then, it can escalate to the point where parents are running themselves ragged, driving their kids to 19 different activities every week without stopping to ask themselves: ‘Is this what we really want? Is this what our kids really need?’”

Win It:

Five Window Shoppe Readers (that’s right, FIVE!) will win a copy of this funny baby book! You know you want it, it’s brilliant!

To Enter:

Simply check out www.perfectbabyhandbook.com and leave a quick comment letting us know that you want to win. This giveaway ends on Tuesday, April 7th at midnight PST. The winner will be chosen randomly and will be announced at this post Wednesday, April 8th. Good luck, everyone!! (Please feel free to read our contest rules for additional details - this contest is currently open to U.S. residents only - we promise to have more great contests for everyone else coming up!)

(Optional) For an extra entry:

  • Are you a Subscriber? Just let us know you’re subscribed to Little Window Shoppe in an additional comment.

I Like You

March 26, 2009 by Cassie · 4 Comments 

I wanted to revisit Little Shop of Shavs since the newest addition to Shauna’s shop is one I couldn’t resist sharing with you. Personalized gifts are often the best and this gift idea is definitely priceless as it’s perfect for someone you “like.”

i-like-you

Shauna has made it possible for you to create your own personalized version of the classic children’s book “I like you.” All you have to do is send her a list of things you like (or you can send a list of things you like about someone else), and she will design custom pages with her drawings that will be inserted into the real text.

i-like-you

All the custom pages are bound together with the real book, which creates a totally personalized book for the recipient. 

i-like-you

Little Shop of Shavs is offering $10 off the original price for Little Window Shoppe Readers (making it only $15!) until April 1st.

Written by Cassie of Madison Envy

Win a Gift Certificate to Studio JK Vinyl

March 18, 2009 by Emily · 457 Comments 

Contest Update:
*We have a winner!! The randomly chosen winner for this contest is: #379 Karen - Congratulations! Thank you to everyone who participated - please stop by again as we have a
new contest each week.*

studio-jk

It’s vinyl like you’ve never seen it before! It’s gorgeous, modern, bright and it all comes from studio jk vinyl.

studio-jk

If you’re considering vinyl for your home, this beautiful artwork is the perfect alternative to stenciling/paint for your walls and it’s easy to apply too.

studio-jk

I love these pictures.

studio-jk

Win It:

Have you been planning out a spot in your house for some of these cute art stickers like I have?  Well, be sure to keep that spot in mind since one lucky Window Shoppe Reader will win a $35 gift certificate to studio jk vinyl!

To Enter:

Simply take a peek at the shoppe and then leave a quick comment letting me know which item is your favorite. This giveaway ends on Thursday, March 26th at midnight PST. The winner will be chosen randomly and will be announced at this post Friday, March 27th. Good luck, everyone!! (Please feel free to read our contest rules for additional details)

(Optional) For extra entries:

  • Are you a Subscriber? Just let us know you’re subscribed to Little Window Shoppe in an additional comment.
  • And (Or) Blog about this giveaway. Simply let us know about your blog link in an additional comment.

Heart to Heart Giveaway

March 13, 2009 by Emily · 442 Comments 

Contest Update:
*We have a winner!! The randomly chosen winner for this contest is: #312 Genevieve - Congratulations! Thank you to everyone who participated - please stop by again as we have a new contest each week.*
 

I love writing reviews about products that make a difference, which is why I’m happy to share information about this beautiful Heart to Heart Necklace with you. It may look sweet and simple, but behind it is a meaningful purpose worth supporting.

heart_to_heart

Presented by the United Soybean Board, all proceeds from the sale of the Heart to Heart Necklace will support WomenHeart, an organization dedicated to promoting women’s heart health through advocacy, community education, and patient support. 

This limited-edition Heart to Heart Necklace was created by top Hollywood designer, gorjana and is available at shopbop. If you’re interested in supporting this cause, please feel free to visit this link.

Win It:

One lucky Window Shoppe Reader will win a Heart to Heart Necklace ($45 value).

To Enter:

Simply leave a quick comment letting me know that you want to win. This giveaway ends on Sunday, March 22nd at midnight PST. The winner will be chosen randomly and will be announced at this post Monday, March 23rd. Good luck, everyone!! (Please feel free to read our contest rules for additional details)

(Optional) For an extra entry:

  • Are you a Subscriber? Just let us know you’re subscribed to Little Window Shoppe in an additional comment.

It’s All About Your Baby ~ Giveaway

March 6, 2009 by Emily · 551 Comments 

Contest Update:
*We have a winner!! The randomly chosen winner for this contest is: #185 Trish - Congratulations! Thank you to everyone who participated - please stop by again as we have a 
new contest each week.* 

For everyone who didn’t get a chance to win this contest, you can still save 20% at Zeebabee Designs with code: SPRING

Hold onto your baby hats! We are having a 3-in-1 Baby Shoppe Giveaway to celebrate the weekend. So, scoot on up and take a look at these three super sweet shoppes. I love them. You will love them. Someone’s gonna win!

Zeebabee Designs

zeebabee

This posh pink burp cloth set is just a taste of the items you will see at Zeebabee Designs. A must have for your little one (and it fits the definition of cute to a tee)! This shoppe features fun & functional products for the modern Mommy that you & your baby will love. Their goal is to develop products that will visually stimulate your newborn & infant baby.

Prize: The winner will receive a set of burp cloths, your choice.

Born 2 Impress

 

born2impress

Baby accessories truly add color to life. The handmade hats, bows and totes in this shoppe are darling and will probably make you say “Awe…” when adorning your little princess. Born 2 Impress is committed to hand-crafting unique designs with the highest quality materials and the utmost care, for any occasion.

Prize: The winner will receive a $30 gift certificate to Born 2 Impress. Discount: Save 10% with code - Lilwshoppe.

Baby Bug Creations

baby-bug

Baby Bug Creations makes personalized custom items for moms & babies. If you need something to spruce up the nursery or want boutique quality items but can’t afford the outrageous prices, that’s their specialty. With Diap & Wipe Cases, Appliqued Shirts, Boppy Pillow Covers, Tutus, Crayon Roll Ups, Nursing Covers, Burp Rags and more, you’re bound to find an item you love.

Prize: The winner will receive either a Diap & Wipe Case or a Crayon Roll, your choice.

Win It: One VERY Lucky Winner with win ALL THREE of these Prizes!

To Enter:

Please visit these THREE sweet shoppes and then leave a comment letting us know that you want to win. This giveaway ends on Sunday, March 15th at midnight PST. The winner will be chosen randomly and will be announced at this post Monday, March 16th. Good luck, everyone!! (Please feel free to read our contest rules for additional details)

(Optional) For extra entries:

  • Are you a Subscriber? Subscribers can enter this contest as many times as you want. Just let us know you’re subscribed to Little Window Shoppe in each additional comment.
  • And (Or) Add this contest to Twitter. Simply let us know about it with your Twitter name in an additional comment.
  • And (Or) Add this contest to Stumble Upon. Simply let us know about it with your Stumble Upon name in an additional comment.
  • And (Or) Blog about this giveaway. Simply let us know about your blog link in an additional comment.

Something 2 Brag About Giveaway

March 3, 2009 by Emily · 310 Comments 

Contest Update:
*We have a winner!! The randomly chosen winner for this contest is: #250 Kathy H. - Congratulations! Thank you to everyone who participated - please stop by again as we have a 
new contest each week.* 

I think that celebrating the joys of new motherhood or even new grandmotherhood with a little personalized token is fun and exciting. Go on, tell the world all about it! ;) Which brings me to Something 2 Brag About…. 

They offer all kinds of meaningful accessories from personalized jewelry, such as mommy and children’s bracelets, to a large selection photo brag bags. And they vow to have stellar customer service to boot!

brag

Discount: $5 Off by using Code BC5

Win It:

One lucky Window Shoppe Reader will win a $40 gift certificate to Something 2 Brag About.

To Enter:

Simply check out Something 2 Brag About and leave a quick comment letting me know that you want to win.  This giveaway ends on Tuesday, March 10th at midnight PST. The winner will be chosen randomly and will be announced at this post Wednesday, March 11th. Good luck, everyone!! (Please feel free to read our contest rules for additional details)

(Optional) For extra entries:

  • Are you a Subscriber? Just let us know you’re subscribed to Little Window Shoppe in an additional comment.

Five Giveaways = One Winner = $170 in Prizes

February 25, 2009 by Emily · 1,423 Comments 

Contest Update:
*We have a winner!! The randomly chosen winner for this contest is: #598 Becca (you are so lucky Becca!!) - Congratulations! Thank you to everyone who participated - please stop by again as we have a 
new contest each week.* 

Hopefully you’re ready for more giveaway madness at Little Window Shoppe!! We are mentioning FIVE giveaways today and ONE VERY LUCKY WINNER will win all FIVE Prizes!! And that’s not all - Subscribers can have unlimited entries for this contest and there are more giveaways to come over the next few days! Now, onto the giveaways…

giveaways

Giveaway #1

eliza

About: Eliza Magazine is created for women who want to be stylish and engaged in the world while retaining high standards in dress, entertainment, and lifestyle.

Prize: The winner will receive a 1 Year Subscription to Eliza Magazine!

eliza-magazine

Giveaway #2

chic-covers

About: Chic Covers specializes in all kinds of cute covers for mamas and babies! You can find everything from car seat covers to handbags.

Prize: The winner will receive this cute Chic Covers Olivia Handbag! Discount: Save 20% when you shop through this link.

Giveaway #3

invitation-jane

About: Invitation Jane is a hip and stylish online boutique dedicated to giving you a selection of fresh ideas in customized invitations, stationery and personalized gifts.

Prize: The winner will receive your very own Invitation Jane Custom Stamp and Gift Tag Set!

Giveaway #4

laugh-and-learn

About: Laugh and Learn DVD’s are a comprehensive guide to labor and delivery that is as informative as it is entertaining for all expectant parents.

Prize: The winner will receive a set of three DVDs! Discount: Use code: WindowS for a 20% discount on the ‘Laugh And Learn’ DVDs. (expires 04/2009)

Giveaway #5

toddler-tshirt1

About: Cutie and Patootie specializes in trendy, posh apparel for your infant and toddler!

Prize: The winner will receive a Cutie and Patootie Baby Onesie or Toddler T-shirt (your choice)!

Win It:

One VERY Lucky Winner with win ALL FIVE of these Prizes!! Woo!

To Enter:

Please visit these FIVE awesome sites and then leave a comment letting us know that you want to win. This giveaway ends on Sunday, March 8th at midnight PST. The winner will be chosen randomly and will be announced at this post Monday, March 9th. Good luck, everyone!! (Please feel free to read our contest rules for additional details)

(Optional) For extra entries:

  • Are you a Subscriber? Subscribers can enter this contest as many times as you want!! Just let us know you’re subscribed to Little Window Shoppe in each additional comment.
  • And (Or) Add this contest to Twitter. Simply let us know about it with your Twitter name in an additional comment.
  • And (Or) Add this contest to Stumble Upon. Simply let us know about it with your Stumble Upon name in an additional comment.
  • And (Or) Blog about this giveaway. Simply let us know about your blog link in an additional comment.

Emmie Cakes Giveaway

February 23, 2009 by Emily · 346 Comments 

Contest Update:
*We have a winner!! The randomly chosen winner for this contest is: #309 Jan M. - Congratulations! Thank you to everyone who participated - please stop by again as we have a 
new contest each week.* 

Deliciously Yummy Banners are exactly what you’ll find at Emmie Cakes. They are handmade and simply perfect as decorations for birthdays, special occasions, new baby arrivals, parties and holidays too. Emmie Cakes also takes custom orders!

emmie-cakes

These banners are made from heavy duty cardstock and pretty patterned  paper, all tied together with a variety of coordinating ribbon, yarn and tulle.

emmiecakes

Win It:

One lucky Window Shoppe Reader will win an Emmie Cakes banner!

To Enter:

Simply check out Emmie Cakes and leave a quick comment letting me know which banner you would like if you win!  This giveaway ends on Monday, March 2nd at midnight PST. The winner will be chosen randomly and will be announced at this post Tuesday, March 3rd. Good luck, everyone!! (Please feel free to read our contest rules for additional details)

(Optional) For extra entries:

  • Are you a Subscriber? Just let us know you’re subscribed to Little Window Shoppe in an additional comment.
  • And (Or) Add this contest to Twitter. Simply let us know about it with your Twitter name in an additional comment.

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