First off, pardon the inactivity here on this site. I've been busy taking care of sick children AND a sick self. Darn children, they are like germ magnets and this time around with the sickness I just couldn't shake this cold off!

I had the PLEASURE of attending the Silicon Valley Mom's Group OC/LA Brand/Blog Mixer at the lovely and gorgeous Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel a week or so ago. Oh, and did I mention that I was chosen to write for the ALL NEW Orange County division of the Silicon Valley Mom's Group? Holy heck, that is one big deal to be asked. More to come, as this site will be officially launching very soon!

Anyways, this event that I went to was incredible! We were able to participate in some wonderful round table discussions regarding some blogging specific topics, and then we were invited to join in on a Brand/Blogger Mixer! The mixer was incredible. I got married at the Ritz-Carlton not so long ago, so it was nice to be back and enjoy some of the tasty hors d'oeuvres that I so enjoyed at my nuptials.

At the Mixer Event, we were asked to visit all of the Sponsor Tables to try the products that were being represented, and also walk away with lots of items to take home. Here is a listing of all of the sponsors that made it to the event:

Bit Defender who helped co-sponsor the event is a company that provides internet security software to protect families online including separate profiles you can set up for each family member to restrict sites, hours and keep an eye on the activity.

Stride Rite previewed their new eco-friendly line of Robeez and new Jessica Simpson styles amongst others and Cinnabon  debuted let us sample their new Cupcake line. DELICIOUS!

Did you know if you sign up for free with a company called Ebates, you can get money back for shopping online at places you probably already shop? Look out soon for a special link page from my Blog that you can sign up for Ebates from and get special incentives special to being a jen0r.com reader!

Bosch Appliances showed us their awesome TASSIMO single-cup beverage maker. I tried the hot chocolate, and it was wonderful. Each individual serving is barcoded so the machine knows exactly the right time and temp to brew.

The iGo Green is a charge anywhere device by iGo had me thinking about how WONDERFUL this product is for me. My cellphone is ALWAYS out of batteries, and this device SOLVES that problem!

Then came the litls. The Litl computer is not only based on Linux (a +++ in my household!) but it's also very cute and functional for around the house computing. Check it out, you'll be impressed.

I sampled Stonyfield Oikos Organic Greek Yogurt, which is a great alternative to the sugar-laden varieties that are regularly available in stores. Give it a try- you won't be disappointed! Whole Foods.

An incredible documentary titled “Babies” opens on Mother's Day this year, and follows the lives of several babies around the world. A definite must see.

Then there were the Taga Bikes. Bike Doesn't really describe the function of this device though, as it can be a bike, stroller, grocery cart, and all around entertainment vehicle for your little ones.

Skechers USA was there with their Shape Ups, a shoe that helps you get in shape and tone as you walk. They also are launching their new product Bootights which are tights that are more like a dress sock below the knee, and a fashionable tight from the knee up so you can look great without getting runs in your tights while wearing boots with a skirt or dress.

Pretend City, one of my favorite places to take my little ones on a rainy day, was there to let us know about some events they have coming up for the whole family. More to come on that! Dole was also on hand to let us sample some of their yummy Dole fruit cups.

Erba Organics, which sells natural organic products for mommies and babies gave us samples to try. I'm actually in love with the baby lotion for myself, for it reminds me of the lotions and oils they use in spas during massages.

There was a great family organizer by Busy Body Books and invitations by Pose Prints, where you can personalize the caricature to actually LOOK like you (or your child!) Super cute idea!

Ju-Ju-Be was on display with their smart bags for smart people…diaper bags, lunch bags, tote bags, you name it. Stylish and functional. I'm really excited about their EcoLeather collection.

We learned that Joseph’s Rugs in Tustin offers a FREE service called “The Rug Consultant” where an interior designer will help you choose an area rug perfect for your space.

Pop Cap is a company that offers downloadable video games.   And lastly Eden’s Fantasy’s provided a take home gift.  Enough said on that one! Lets just say that Caryn Bailey (of RockinMama.net was a LITTLE surprised at the gift. Please see the jen0r dot com Facebook Fan Page for more pictures!