Planning Your Child's Birthday Party

I am a believer in simple children’s birthday parties. My son is 5 years old, and his parties so far have been very simple, family events. This makes the time spent more special for the birthday boy. He gets to be around all his loved ones, and they have the time to spoil him and play with him. I’m not alone in my thinking (I was beginning to think I was). Maybe you’ll appreciate this article like I did.

ABC's Good Morning America shared a segment recently, discussing parents planning lavish birthday parties for their children. Some of these cost in excess of $35,000! Sharen Pearson's timely article "Simple Gifts" contains practical advice for parents and grandparents who are planning a child's birthday party. Keeping it simple not only is better on the budget and on stress-levels, it's actually better for the children.

SIMPLE GIFTS

By Sharen Pearson

As a mother of five and now grandmother of seven, I’ve planned my share of birthday events. I am a creative person, so my problem is “going over the top.” My expectations supersede those of the birthday child. So, I have to step back and say, “Whose birthday is it anyway?” And, therein lies the key to a successful birthday party.

I recently assisted with my grandson, Waylon’s party. He was reaching that big-boy age of 5 years. He knew what theme he wanted: Herbie the Love Bug. He wanted a backyard campfire and a cake with Herbie on it. Simple—Herbie, campfire, cake. Got it! My daughter complied. She invited a few families from church that Waylon knew well and was comfortable around. Since entire families were represented, parents were there to help with crowd control. Bowls of chips and dip provided a place to gather around as people arrived. Children scattered to play in the back yard, parents grouped to watch and chat. Easy, huh? Daddy lit a small fire in the campfire ring in the yard. More talk, more easy playing. The cake was a simple giant chocolate chip cookie with a frosting “Herbie.” Waylon thought it was wonderful.

Mommy announced that it was gift-opening time and everyone pulled up lawn chairs and sat in family groups. Waylon sat in the middle of the circle on the grass and guests watched as he opened each gift and thanked the giver. He received many nice gifts, but to everyone’s delight, a small, inexpensive VW bug toy car was his favorite. He opened it, raised it above his head as if it were a trophy and yelled in delight. Waylon slept with his “Herbie;” woke up and greeted it; placed it on the edge of the tub so he could see it. He had the birthday he wanted. Simple party, simple gift, simple fun!

Some suggestions to consider when planning your party:

• If your child is old enough to have input, allow it.
• For ages 1-5 years, simple is best. Simple decorations, simple food, simple games.
• Invite only one party guest per age of the child. Young children are very intimidated by many children of the same age. Remember, “Whose birthday is it?”
• If guests include family/friends with older children, add activities especially for them.
• Home is the best place for children ages 5 and under. Big party venues are confusing, scary and do not position the “birthday child” as the center of attention as he should be.

Some traps that parents fall into:

• Making the party so complicated that you, as the parent, no longer enjoy it. (Been there, done that.)
• Allowing young party guests to get close to and grab for gifts as as the birthday child is opening them. (Admit it, you’ve seen this haven’t you?)
• Spending too much money. (Guilty as charged.)
• Preparing food for adults and not age-appropriate to the guests. (The only thing to show off today is your wonderful child)
• Engaging in sleepover parties before the age of 9 years. (Children younger than 9 or 10 years often find sleeping at someone else’s home frightening and uncomfortable.)

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Author Bio

Sharen Pearson

Sharen Pearson’s Goof & Giggle classes and materials continue to provide a quality Mom/Tot interaction. Widely popular, Goof & Giggle’s child-focused play plans are offered in various Arizona communities. She’s also created a variety of Goof Juice DVDs and filmed episodes of Baby D.I.Y. and written workbooks for BabyFirstTV. Arizona Midday (NBC) tapes monthly segments with Sharen to provide their audience with a variety of original and creative “easy to do” activities for babies and preschoolers. Sharen’s creativity reaches a combined audience over 200 million viewers worldwide. Goof & Giggle classes and products encourage green living, repurposing materials from around the house into affordable objects for play and learning. Learn more at: http://sharenpearson.com/

*This article content is provided free of charge by the author through Kathy Carlton Willis Communications.*

EcoMom Has Free Shipping!

Have you visited www.ecomom.com before? They have great items for moms and kids like Plum Organics, Revolution Foods, BOBA Organic G2, Melissa & Doug, Episencial Skin Care and more. They even have great stuff for men too!

 

EcoMom just announced FREE SHIPPING on all orders in the US for a limited time. That’s amazing! It’s a great way to try some products that you’ve had your eye on or stock up on things you love. With no extra shipping fees, you’ll have extra money to buy more things you like!

Chicago Honda Dealer

There is a new car dealership in Chicago. At http://www.ednapletonhonda.com you can learn all about the Honda Dealer in Chicago. See what they have available that might work for you. Or just check out the new vehicles available.

Ed Napleton Honda has new and pre-owned vehicles. Are you in the market for a Honda Accord? They have new ones with all the options that you might want. When I’m shopping for a car, I like to see what’s out there before I decide. That’s easy to do on this website. They have listings of all their stock with the features of each vehicle as well.

You can easily see new vehicles and learn more details about specific cars that they carry on their blog http://www.hondadealersblog.com. Be sure to check them out if you’re in the Chicago area. It looks like they have a little of everything for everyone.


*This post was brought to you by your friends at ednapletonhonda.com.*

Timmy Time: Picture Day DVD Review + {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 9/20} (CLOSED)

This giveaway has closed. Congrats to the winner listed below!



Just like his bigger pal Shaun the Sheep, Timmy might be quiet, but he can sure get into a lot of mischief. What sort of adventures can Timmy and his pals find in the latest Timmy Time: Picture Day DVD? You’ll have to watch to find out.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The fun and learning never stops when Timmy, of new preschool series Timmy Time™, is ready for his close-up! The all-new Timmy Time: Picture Day! comes to DVD June 28, 2011 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment just in time for back to school. Whether struggling to keep clean for class photo day, celebrating the color blue, jamming with the school band or just playing with his pals, you know you’re in for a barnyard-sized bunch of hilarious antics and adventures with Timmy!



With slapstick humor yet not a single line of dialogue, Timmy Time follows a day in the life of a preschooler where they learn lessons about friendship and trial and error to which every young child can relate. Timmy Time airs weekdays (5:30 a.m. and 7:15 a.m. ET/PT) on Disney Channel’s Disney Junior programming block for kids ages 2-7 and their families, airing in more than 99 million U.S. homes.



DVD SYNOPSIS:
Come along for a picture perfect day of fun with your preschool pal Timmy! The Oscar^®-winning creators of “Wallace and Gromit™” and “Shaun the Sheep™” will make you smile in these fun-loving adventures featuring Timmy and his nursery friends. From good, clean fun during school photo day to drumming up music lessons, these wonderful stories filled with surprises will have you laughing in a flash. So snap up these five adorable tales with a big focus on fun!

• “Snapshot Timmy” - It’s time for the class photo, but Timmy just cannot keep himself clean – jumping into puddles, kicking muddy footballs and getting splattered by jam sandwiches!

• “Timmy Wants The Blues” - Timmy is having a blue day, collecting all the blue toys, blue cushions and blue paint. But when it comes to painting a picture, he quickly discovers he’s going to need more than just one color!

• “Timmy Wants The Drum” - During a music lesson, Timmy decides he wants to play the drum! But when it is given to Yabba, and a triangle to Timmy, he goes about trying to get the drum for himself...

• “Timmy’s Puppet” - On his way to preschool, Timmy’s homemade sock-puppet falls out of his backpack. Poor Timmy doesn’t realize until he arrives to see everyone playing with their own puppets! Crestfallen, he begins an unsuccessful search until Harriet offers to help him make a new one.

• “Timmy The Builder” - Following Otus’s example, the class begin building dens for themselves. Otus offers to help Timmy with his, but Timmy’s pride gets the better of him – he can do this on his own! However, the little lamb soon has to admit that two heads may be better than one...

DVD BONUS FEATURES
· Timmy Time Sing-Along



We really enjoy Timmy Time in our house. We first saw him make appearances on Shaun the Sheep, which was already a favorite. Then when Timmy got his own show on Disney, we were excited. Now we can catch full episodes on DVD too. Timmy is a spunky little lamb with great friends who always are into something. I feel like this is a show that my whole family can enjoy together.

The Timmy Time: Picture Day DVD is geared towards children ages 2-5 years old. Perfect for the preschool crowd. The video runs about 45 minutes long. You can buy the Timmy Time: Picture Day DVD in stores and online too. And I have one copy to give away. Just enter in the easy Rafflecopter form below.


*Disclaimer: I received a DVD for this review. All opinions are my own.*

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Blue Sky Scrubs

I may not wear scrubs (I still think it’s a great idea for stay at home moms), but I know plenty of people who do for their jobs. You might be a nurse, work in a medical office, a dental hygienist like my sister-in-law, there are many places where scrubs are the uniform of choice. One great place to find scrubs of all kids is http://www.blueskyscrubs.com/categories/Scrubs/.

Blue Sky Scrubs is a site that offers all sorts of scrubs, lab coats, surgical scrubs and medical uniforms. I like that they offer a wide selection of tops, bottoms and even hats. They have a variety of colors to suit what you need. Men, women, and even children will have a very easy time finding what they need there. Wouldn’t it be fun for your children to dress like you for Halloween!


*This post was brought to you by your friends at blueskyscrubs.com.*

Wild Child CD Review + {Giveaway – Ends 9/12} (CLOSED)

This giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner listed below.

Lyrical songs, African rhythms, and the voices of nature create environmental awareness for kids. That’s what the Wild Child CD is all about. This CD is the newest “Celebrate Earth” CD from Recess Music. This is a fun, energetic children’s music CD that your family will love.

ST. PAUL, MN (June 16, 2011) – Recess Music, a company that strives to awaken kids to the magnificence of our planet through albums of earth-friendly music, looks forward to the August 16 release of Wild Child, the fourth in its award-winning “Celebrate Earth” series of CDs.   Singing the praises of Africa fauna, the 14 tracks of Wild Child showcase musical contributions by a sampling of today’s most gifted kids’ musicians, including Jack Grunsky, Anna Moo, and Danny Adlerman.

Notes Recess Music’s founder, Nancy Doan, “Of all the creatures on Earth, the animals of Africa are some of the most threatened in our world.  When I think of the children of future generations, I’m struck by how sad it will be if they never have the possibility of seeing an elephant or a tiger or a hippo in its natural habitat.  I believe that Mother Nature intended for ALL of Earth's inhabitants to share our green planet with one another.”

Wild Child opens with “Earth Lullaby,” featuring the beautiful voice of Kathy Lowe accompanied by African drums, chorus, electric guitar and bass, and continues with a gospel-tinged celebration of the Serengeti plain by the team of Aaron Glassman and Andrew Spence. Penelope Torribio gently captures the delicate beauty of a fragile environment as she sings “Rainforest By Morning.”  Exotic birdcalls at the song’s conclusion create a smooth transition to Jack Grunsky’s relaxed, Caribbean styled “Sunrise In The Jungle.”  The African day builds momentum with Ed Jordan and Alan Glass offering delightfully catchy rhymes about “Rita, the Cheetah.”  More animal calls announce the South African sounds of Danny Adlerman singing “Africa Calling,” and Anna Moo poses some provocative questions in her exotic, “Mysteries Of The Nile.” The African experience continues with evocative selections by Birdie’s Playhouse, KimmySchwimmy, Melita Doostan, Wayne From Maine, and Aaron Burnett. At the album’s close, Cosima offers a taste of authentic African language in “Thula Baba,” with Tish Steinfeld settling listeners down for the evening in “Full Moon Over Africa.”

While experiencing a multi-faceted life as a mother, wife, and minister, Nancy Doan became convinced of the need to make the world a better place through a two-fold approach: sustaining our environment and teaching kindness.  Because music held a prominent place in both her own childhood and her experiences as a mother, Nancy developed an appreciation of the power of music as an educational tool.  When the onset of systemic lupus erythematosus dictated a career change, she cast about for a way to continue to serve the causes to which she had dedicated her life.  This search ultimately led to the creation of Recess Music, a company dedicated to the twin goals of environmental awareness and social empathy.
Fulfilling its declared mission of entertaining, encouraging, and educating children and families about the wonders of our planet, Recess Music has previously released three albums in the “Celebrate Earth” series, beginning with Celebrate Earth in spring 2010. Growing Veggie Soup followed, with songs chosen for their focus on gardening and sustainable farming practices. The music of Ocean Motion, the award-winning third installment of the “Celebrate Earth” music series, is dedicated to the understanding and preservation of the world’s ocean life and its habitats.

Coming next from Recess Music, in fall 2011, will be U R Some 1, the second in the company’s “Best Foot Forward” series of albums dedicated to helping kids value a world that is wise, fair, and generous hearted.
Wild Child will be available online at www.recessmusic.com, amazon.com and its international affiliates, iTunes, and brick and mortar retailers throughout the U.S.

This is a unique addition to my son’s growing CD collection. Instead of being too cutesy and kiddy, it’s a great CD with music that is a little different. Different in a great way! I think you and your family will appreciate Wild Child.

The Wild Child CD is great for kids ages 4-12. And you can buy it at www.recessmusic.com or amazon.com. I also have one copy of Wild Child to giveaway. You can enter in the Rafflecopter form below.


*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this CD for review. All opinions are my own.*

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NOVICA Review

If you’re looking for a truly unique gift, be sure to check out NOVICA. They work in associate with National Geographic to give talented artisans around the world a place to express their artistic talents and provide access to the world market. They have thousands of jewelry, unique gifts and home decor on their website.

I am lucky that my husband has had opportunity to travel to Africa several times as part of a missions team from our church. Each time he’s brought home some really fun, unique items that he purchases from local crafters there. We have several African drums and instruments, wood carved figures and jewelry all hand made right there. What NOVICA does is take those things from other countries and make them available to us online. They are supporting small crafters through this, and giving the common person access to really fun, unique items.

NOVICA has a new site called NOVICA Live that uses people like you to host parties for your friends to purchase items. It’s similar to other home party businesses. You can be a consultant and make a little money selling these neat products to your friends and family. Or you can order from a show.

You can find anything from Silk scarves to Silver Cross Necklaces on NOVICA. I received a gift card to choose something from there site. There are so many items to pick from. It was really hard to decide. You can look by country that the goods came from, particular objects, or gift ideas.

I finally settled on a Christmas present for my mom. I am getting one of the Silver Charm Bracelets. I think she will really like the Pearl Charm Bracelet from India that I chose. (The picture is shown above.) I can’t wait to get it and give it to her.

If you look at the NOVICA website, it won’t take you long to find something you like. And if you decide to take advantage of the new NOVICA Live opportunity, be sure to list my blog as how you heard about it. (I’ll get a gift card in return.) You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter. Look no further for a unique gift for even those hard to buy for people. NOVICA has just the thing for you.


*Disclaimer: I received a gift card to purchase an item for this review. All opinions are my own.*

The Dirty Sock Fun Time Band CD Review + {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 9/11} (CLOSED)

This giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner posted below.

Dirty socks and music? Yep, sounds like a fun children’s music group. You have to check out the Dirty Sock Fun Time Band’s Sock-a-Delic CD. If your child has watched “Jack’s Big Music Show” on Nick Jr., they may already know who these guys are. So rock your socks off and have a little fun!

NEW YORK, NY (June 10, 2011) –Beloved by millions of families for their high-energy music videos on the Nick Jr. channel’s Jack’s Big Music Show, The Dirty Sock Funtime Band’s Sock-A-Delic CD and The Dirty Sock Funtime Band DVD showcase the band’s “We show kids that they rock” spirit.

The outrageous popularity of The Dirty Sock Funtime Band is easy to understand from a kids’ point of view, for their shows are interactive spectacles involving rock band, dancers, comedy, and costumes.  The band’s six-to-eight members really know how to fill the stage with action: it’s better than a three-ring circus. Each member has his or her own role to play and distinctive personality to project, but they all come together like clockwork.  And what a sound!  Their music is polyphonic to the max with melodic lines and supercharged rhythms weaving in and out like a great Dixieland band with everyone wailing on the final chorus.  The action onstage is as fascinating as a perfectly timed basketball team. The stunning impact of this stage energy is balanced by the cleverness of the compositions and the smartness of lyrics that offer large words and large ideas, all seasoned with the band’s own brand of belly laugh comedy.  The singing, the comedy, the playing, the dancing … it all fits together into one big kaleidoscopic thrill.

That same “total entertainment” concept of The Dirty Sock Funtime Band’s live shows comes through loud and clear on the band’s CDs and music videos. Both their Sock-A-Delic CD and The Dirty Sock Funtime Band DVD inhabit a world where anything can happen. Timing is everything for this band, and the timing of the humor and the smartness of the lyrics are only surpassed by the first rate quality of their singing and playing.  It seems The Dirty Sock Funtime Band must have a pipeline straight to the cleverest part of a kid’s brain. With an effortless vivacity, the group romps through every style from country and western to funk, rock, and beyond on Sock-A-Delic.  The Dirty SockFuntime Band DVD combines live action comedy, animated videos, and puppetry, plus interactive dance-a-longs and sing-a-longs, to capture and maintain kids’ interest. The DVD is filled with a stunning array of music videos and also includes three pilot episodes for TheDirty Sock Funtime Band TV series.

Known as the highest energy kids’ rock band ever to break out of NYC, The Dirty Sock Funtime Band was voted “Best Kids’ Band” by readers of Time Out NY Kids. According to MTV’s Evan James, the DSFB plays “some of the most innovative and exciting children’s music EVER.”  CNN described them as “distinguished by rocking beats combined with silly, visual lyrics (think Muppets take MTV).”  FOX News declared, “Find out why kids, parents and critics alike are falling in love with the first real rock band for kids.”  Chris Barron, proud parent and lead singer of the Spin Doctors enthused, “Finally, a rock band for kids that really rocks!”

The Dirty Sock Funtime Band recently returned from their first overseas tour, performing for Navy families in Bahrain, Greece, Italy, and Spain, and they have shows scheduled throughout the summer and fall. The band’s next release, in fall 2011, will be an interactive e-book based on their song “Treasure.”  November 2011 will see the release of an all-new studio CD.

Sock-A-Delic and The Dirty Sock Funtime Band DVD previously received “soft” releases. Sock-A-Delic is now available online atwww.dirtysockfuntimeband.com, amazon.com, and itunes.  The Dirty Sock Funtime Band DVD is available exclusively at www.dirtysockfuntimeband.com.

My son has seen this band on “Jack’s Big Music Show”. It’s always fun to get a CD from a group that you’re already familiar with. The CD is fun and energetic. And they also have a DVD, so your child can join in the dance moves and groove with the music.

The Dirty Sock Fun Time Band: Sock-a-Delic CD is perfect for children ages 2-8 years old. It sells for about $9.99, and the runtime is about 39 minutes. You can find the CD from their website -http://www.dirtysockfuntimeband.com/. And I have one copy of the CD to giveaway! Just enter in the Rafflecopter form below.


*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this CD for review. All opinions are my own.*

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Crystal Light Mocktails Review

I found a great summer drink that is sure to be a great-tasting low-calorie drink. Crystal Light Mocktails are here for the summer. They are a refreshing drink that you can have without the guilt.

Crystal Light Mocktails are a low-calorie drink mix available for a limited time in Margarita, Mojito and Appletini flavors.  With just 5 calories per serving, they offer all the flavor of your favorite summertime beverage, without the compromise on calories.  New Mocktails easily mix up the perfect pitcher without the hassle of muddling limes, blending ice or using a cocktail strainer.  Just add water, mix it up and toast to summertime! 

Crystal Light Mocktails hit store shelves nationwide for a limited time in late May 2011, giving women a new reason to love summer! 

More about Crystal Light Mocktails· Contains just 5 calories per 8 fl. oz. serving, compared to leading beverages*
· Contains 0 carbohydrates per 8 fl. oz. serving
· Sweetened with a blend of non-nutritive sweeteners
· Gluten free
· Available in multi-serve canisters with five 2-quart packets so there is always enough to share 

* Leading beverages contain 70 calories

I got the chance to try the Appletini Crystal Light Mocktail. It had a great flavor- apple, sweet, and a little tartness to balance it out. It was easy to take one packet and mix it in a pitcher with water. Then you just pour and serve. This is an easy drink to have on hand for an outdoor barbecue or just a day when you have unexpected company.

I like that Kraft has several varieties of the Crystal Light Mocktail. The other two flavors, Margarita and Mojito, sound good too! They are great summer flavors. I think they would be good year round too.

Don’t miss out on this fun summertime drink. The Crystal Light Mocktails won’t be in stores for much longer! You can also find them in a few places online too.


*Disclaimer: I received a sample of Crystal Light Mocktails from Kraft Foods. All opinions are my own.*

Bob the Builder: The Big Dino Dig The Movie DVD Review + {Giveaway – Ends 9/10} (CLOSED)

This giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner listed below.
Bob, building, digging, dirt and dinosaurs. Sounds like a great combination for most little kids. Get down and dirty with Bob the Builder in the Bob the Builder: The Big Dino Dig The Movie DVD.

Program Description Ready for a “dino”-mite new adventure? Bob and the Can-Do crew star in an all-new Jurassic-sized adventure, Bob the Builder: The Big Dino Dig The Movie, coming ONLY to DVD, Digital Download and ON Demand June 24, 2011 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment. Always on the job with a smile and a can-do attitude, Bob, Scoop, Dizzy – along with new team member Rubble – tackle every project with the power of positive thinking, problem solving, cooperation and follow-through. From start to finish, these hard workers prove the fun is in getting it done!

 Bob the Builder has paired with another building icon – LEGOLAND – to promote the DVD movie premiere. As part of a national promotion with LEGOLAND, each Bob the Builder: The Big Dino Dig The Movie DVD includes a coupon for a free Child Ticket with paid Adult Ticker to any LEGOLAND attraction. In addition, the DVD includes a special offer for a free child’s admission to SplashDown Beach waterpark in Fishkill, New York featuring the new attraction, Bob the Builder Splash Works.

DVD Synopsis Grab your shovels and join the fun as Bob the Builder and his terrific team dig up ancient surprises in this all-new movie. A new truck named Rubble joins the Can-Do Crew to help build an enormous amusement park, but when things get difficult with seagulls and impossible lumps, it’s up to the team to work together to finish the job, unearthing some prehistoric dinosaur bones along the way. Hold on to your hard hat for a roller coaster ride of thrills, discovery and fun!

DVD Bonus Features * “Diggin It Up” Music Video Dinosaurs have been all the rage with young kids in the past few years.


I think putting Bob the Builder together with dinosaurs in a full-length movie for preschools is a great thing. They will enjoy the fun and adventure of digging for dinosaurs while seeing Bob and the crew had at work. Teamwork and learning how to function together are good lessons for us all. My son enjoyed this movie with a great story line.

 The Bob the Builder: The Big Dino Dig The Movie DVD is geared towards children ages 2-5 years old and it runs about 61 minutes. I think it’s the perfect length for young ones that age. You won’t want to miss the fun! You can find Bob the Builder: the Big Dino Dig The Movie DVD in stores and online now. And you can enter to win a copy in the Rafflecopter form below!




*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this DVD for my review. All opinions are my own.*

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Angelina Ballerina: Pop Star Girls DVD Review + {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 9/10} (CLOSED)

This giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner below.

Dancing and singing go hand in hand. When Angelina Ballerina is around, you can be sure she’ll be part of that action too. Your kids will love the energy and happiness that is in the Angelina Ballerina: Pop Star Girls DVD.

Program Description
It’s Showtime! Join beloved mouseling Angelina Ballerina and her friends as they star in an all-new, show-stopping spectacle full of fun, friendship and dance when Angelina Ballerina: Pop Star Girls comes to DVD, Digital Download and On Demand June 7, 2011 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment. Just like all aspiring stars, Angelina and her friends are always ready to dance and have a good time! When kids share in Angelina’s experiences, they’re inspired to go after their big dreams too.

DVD Synopsis
Get ready to get your groove on because it’s showtime with Angelina and her friends! While all the dancers learn to work together, Angelina realizes she loves Hip Hop, rock bands, fiddles and more! Move and groove along with Angelina as she directs a Hip Hop musical and discovers she was born to be a star. The whole family will be star-struck with delight as Angelina steps it up in her best performance yet.

Episodes * “Angelina’s Crazy Solo”
* “Angelina’s Rock Band”
* “Angelina’s Hip Hop Boys Show”
* “Angelina and the Giant”
* “Angelina and the Broken Fiddle”

DVD Bonus Features
* “Dancing Star” Memory Game


Angelina Ballerina isn’t just for girls either. In our house, she’s a pretty cool mouse. My son has always enjoyed her videos just as much as others. He likes the music and dancing most of all. There are many fun episodes with both of those things in them on this new DVD.

Angelina Ballerina: Pop Star Girls is perfect for the little preschoolers in your life. They will enjoy the variety of music and dancing this video features. It’s not just about ballet. Angelina discovers other types of music and dancing that she and her friends enjoy. The DVD is targeted at children ages 2-7 and runs about 61 minutes long. You can purchase the Angelina Ballerina: Pop Star Girls DVD in stores and online now. And I have one copy to giveaway too. You can enter in the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!


*Disclaimer: I received this DVD to review. All opinions are my own.*

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TracFone

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of TracFone for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Is your cell phone plan getting a little outrageous with the kids using yours all summer? I'm sure they want to keep in touch with their friends while they are out of school, but all those calls and texts can add up fast. A simple and easy way to let them do this is with TracFone. They can have their own prepaid minutes that they are using, which is much cheaper than running your cell phone bill up all the time.

Having a cell phone is a great way to keep your children safe too. You might want them to have a phone in emergencies. Or maybe, like us, you don't have a home phone. So when you're away from home, they will need a phone in case they need to call you. TracFone will fit all those needs with little cost.

TracFone is the least expensive cell phone to own in the US. They won't make you sign a contract or check your credit. And there are no activation or cancelation fees. You just purchase one and use it right away. Use it a little, use it a lot, it really doesn't matter. You'll still get great national coverage and good reception for calls. And they have a variety of phones from big manufacturers that you can choose from, like Motorola, Kyocera, LG, Nokia and more. There are simple phones for under $10 that have calling and texting capabilities. And you can get phones with so many features for $29.99.

There are several plan options, which include, pay as you go, 1 year service cards, and more. You can purchase double minutes for the life of your phone with a simple fee (and some phones already include this), and you will find monthly plans with 200 minutes for under $30 and as low as $9.99 for 50 minutes.

We have a TracFone at our house for those rare occasions that neither my husband nor I are home. We don't have a home phone, so we want to make sure that there is a phone for the babysitter and our son to use. I was away last week for a day when Matt had to work. We hired a girl in our neighborhood to come over. She was able to use our TracFone to text with simple questions, and it was there if she needed to call in an emergency. Plus we had the peace of mind that they had that lifeline if needed.

There is more information about TracFone from real TracFone customers like me. And these other real TracFone customers tell you what they think too.

 

PCPools.com

Summer is full of fun activities. Top of our list is swimming. Some years we’re able to get out and swim more than other years. Unfortunately we haven’t been able to go swimming as much this year. I sure wish we knew someone close by with a big pool.

I’ve always wanted to have a pool. Our property used to have a pool. There is electrical hookup, and you could still see where the pool sat when we bought our house. The pool had already been removed. We decided not to put the money and time into a pool for now.

With a website like PCpools.com I could see that finding products for pools would be so much easier. They have everything from fun floats to chemicals for maintaining a pool. You can find a heater to use our pool longer into the fall or solar pool covers to help as well.

I’m not sure I’ll ever have a pool, but if you do I’ll be there. Just make sure that you locate not too far from me. Thanks!


*This post was brought to you by your friends at pcpools.com.*

Roary the Racing Car DVD Review + {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 9/8} (CLOSED)

This giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner posted below.

You’ve seen him on Sprout television. You’ve seen him in bonus material on Thomas, Bob and Barney DVDs. But now, for the first time ever, you’ll see him in his own Brand-New DVD. Yes, that’s right, it’s Roary the Racing Car in his own DVD. Your kids will want to race right out and join in the fun!


Program Description
Get revved up for the red hot preschool star, Roary the Racing Car, speeding onto his very first DVD, Digital Download and On Demand release June 7, 2011 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment. You have a front row ticket to Silver Hatch Racetrack to delight in the high-speed adventures of Roary, Dragga, Zizzy and Lugga, along with human pals Big Chris, Marsha, Officer Pete…and even curmudgeonly Mr. Carburettor, as they drive through lessons in doing the right thing, staying positive, helping others, staying safe, problem solving and friendship. With boundless enthusiasm and a get-up-and-go attitude, Roary is ready to race right into your heart!

Narrated in the U.S. by Indy and NASCAR racer Sam Hornish Jr., Roary the Racing Car launched on Sprout in October of 2008, airing in 54MM homes 7 days a week, but the premiere DVD has a treat for their fans featuring episodes never-before-seen on TV! This red hot engine ha performed notably well on Sprout on Demand, on average ranking in the network’s top 10 programs requested. Roary has been cross promoted on 2MM preschool DVDs, and all-new Roary toys are now available exclusively at Toys “R” Us!

Synopsis
Start your engines for fun and excitement with Roary the Racing Car and his racetrack buddies, Tin Top, Zizzy, Dragga and mischievous Maxi, as they zoom into exciting high-speed adventures. The racetrack becomes a pit stop of great times as everyone goes the extra mile for Marsha’s birthday party, Big Chris becomes a babysitter and Rusty is on a roll…without wheels! Put your pedal to the metal and buckle up for big-time fun from START to FINISH!

Episodes include:
* “Stars and Cars”  - Big Christ has been incited to appear on a TV karaoke show. The cars are worried that the success will go to his head and he’ll leave Silver Hatch forever.
* “Rusty Takes a Trip” – Rusty is fed up with sitting in one place. Roary and the other cars plan a special surprise for him, but Rusty soon decides he prefers life without wheels!
* “Big Chris Babysits” – Big Chris has been left in charge of the track and keeping an eye on Roary and Zizzy. But is Big Chris the one that needs looking after?
* “Roary Gets It Wrong” – Farmer Green has given Roary lots of packages to deliver to everybody around the track. How will Roary remember which package belongs to who?
* “Computer Calamity” – Mr. Carburettor has decided that Silver Hatch needs to move with the times and do everything with computers. But Big Chris is a traditional mechanic, so what happens when the two disagree?
* “Big Chris Forgets” – It’s Marsha’s birthday, and Big Chris is in charge of organizing a surprise for her. Why does everybody keep reminding him what he needs to do? He wouldn’t forget anything…would he?!

DVD Bonus Features
* “Roary’s Day at the Seaside” Music Video


We were excited to see Roary finally have his DVD. My son has enjoyed his videos as bonus episodes on other DVDs that he has. And the narrator, Sam Hornish Jr., in Roary the Racing Car is from my hometown area. I think Roary is a fun character that little kids will love. Preschoolers love cars and this fits that perfectly. They will love the great new characters on the Roary the Racing Car DVD.

The Roary the Racing Car DVD is made for children ages 2-5 years old. This is a great show for the preschool crowd. The DVD runs about 55 minutes long. You can check out more about Roary at www.roarytheracingcar.com. The Roary the Racing Car DVD is available in stores and online. I have one copy to give away. You can enter in the Rafflecopter form below.



*Disclaimer: I received this DVD for my review. All opinions are my own.*

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The Bar Method Pregnancy Workout DVD + {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 9/7} (CLOSED)

This giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner posted below! Pregnancy Workout DVD
Master teacher Lee Potter in her third trimester with twins adds her own special wit and playfulness to the Bar Method’s pre-natal workout, a long-standing and popular class at its flagship studio in San Francisco. Lee leads you through this 45-minute long series of gentle, safe and challenging moves, including free-weight work, thigh exercises, standing seat-work, and abdominal strengthening exercises performed while propped up on pillows. Lee’s fellow performers are Hannah Blue, co-owner of the Downtown San Francisco studio and Lauren Dunning, a teacher at the Downtown San Francisco studio, both appearing in this DVD in their second trimester. As Lee puts it, this DVD “will help you feel strong during your pregnancy, will assist you in delivering your baby, and will snap you right back into shape.”

About The Bar Method
The Bar Method is full-body exercise program created by Burr Leonard. The workout utilizes a ballet bar fitness technique and draws from the principles of isometrics, dance conditioning, interval training, and physical therapy. The result is a noticeable “Bar Method” sculpted body featuring:
· Firm, elongated muscles
· Reduced body fat
· High muscle definition in the chest
· Improved posture
· Long, narrow thighs
· A lifted seat and defined hamstrings
· Strong, flat abdominals
· Increased stamina and energy
· Extended youthfulness

About Burr Leonard, Founder of The Bar Method
Burr Leonard is the founder and creator of The Bar Method, a full-body exercise workout that utilizes a ballet bar technique. The method draws from the principles of isometrics, dance conditioning, interval training, and physical therapy. With 19 years of experience in the fitness field, she and her business partner have turned their one Bar Method studio into a franchise operation with 30+ studios and a media company selling exercise DVDs and accessories. Huffington Post, ABC News, KUSI TV, and KUSA-TV have featured Burr Leonard’s The Bar Method. You can win your own copy of the Bar Method Pregnancy Workout DVD. Enter in the Rafflecopter form below.

*Disclaimer: No review product was received. The company provided the information and product for giveaway.*

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Bumbo Baby Seat Cover Review + {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 9/7} (CLOSED)

This giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner posted below.

The Bumbo Baby Seat has been on the scene of baby products for a while now. It was just becoming popular (at least in my circles) just as my son was too big for it, so it’s not a product I used with my own baby. I know so many people have these on their baby registries now. I have seen friends use the Bumbo with their babies too.

So many people sing the praises of the Bumbo Baby Seat. (As with any other baby products, some kids just don’t like it though.) I love the idea of the seat. It’s made for babies who are big enough to hold their heads up, but not quite ready to sit up on their own yet. This gives them a way to see the world with a little independence.

Even though the Bumbo Baby Seat comes in several different colors, there aren’t any customizable options. At least there weren’t until now. Now there is a Bumbo Seat Cover. There are 6 new options (pictured above) that will add a little extra personality to your Bumbo Baby Seat.

The Seat Cover has convenient side-storage pockets that are great for toys, snacks, teethers or small books. And even better, the ever-popular Bumbo Play Tray fits perfectly over the Seat Cover. It is made of cotton and machine washable, which makes it so easy to clean. And it’s easy to take on and off, plus you don’t have to worry about it staying put with the elastic around the bottom.

I find the Bumbo Seat Cover to be a great addition to the successful Bumbo Baby Seat. It makes reusing the seat a little more fun too. Plus you can change it up if you get tired. I like how easy the cover was to get on and off. That makes it so simple to clean. Overall this gets my seal of approval.

So, pick out the Bumbo Seat Cover that you love the most and Cover your Bumbo! You can find these covers at your local Target store or online at www.keendistribution.com. And I have one cover to giveaway! Enter in the Rafflecopter form below.



*Disclaimer: I received this product for review. All opinions are my own.*

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Kidorable Hooded Towel Review

Many you’ve heard of Kidorable before. Or perhaps you read my last review of their products. I can’t say a negative thing about this company. Every Kidorable product I’ve ever seen has exceeded my expectations! I love their products! Everyone who sees these items always mentions how adorable they are too. And when I tried this last product, it lived up to that too.

We picked out a Pirate Hooded Towel from Kidorable. We already have a few things from the pirate collection and really like them. The Pirate Towel we received was in a size small. It fits ages newborn to 2 years. They also carry medium in towels, which will fit 3-6 year olds. We gave this towel to my nephew for his first birthday.

 
The Pirate Towel fits Easton nicely. It covers his head so it will stay on and dry his hair (what little he has) at the same time. The back of the towel looks like a mini treasure map. The cutest thing was the eye patch on the front hooded part. The thing I like best about Kidorable is the little details like that they think of to just put a great product over the top. This towel is sturdy and will last through many washes. You kid will wear it until they outgrow it.

To get a hooded towel for yourself just shop at www.kidorable.com. Make sure to check out all their other great products, like the Ballerina Rain Coat (perfect for a girly girl). You can also keep in touch with them on Twitter. And be sure to follow them on Facebook, where they are often posting their specials and running contests.


*Disclaimer: I received this product for review. All opinions are my own.*

My Baby Clothes Boutique Review + {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 9/1} (CLOSED)

This giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner below.

The My Baby Clothes Boutique is a shop that has adorable baby clothing and more. Their styles are cute, functional, and affordable. They carry lots of cute girls clothing, but don’t worry there are great outfits for baby boys too! At My Baby Clothes you can also find baby hats, headbands, shoes, tutus and so much more.

My Baby Clothes has lots of personalized options for baby clothes and more. You can get a great shower gift with the baby’s initials already printed on a onesie. Or maybe a personalized blanket with the new baby’s name is perfect for you.

I chose the adorable Mud Pie Seersucker Socks Set for my little niece. She’s only a few months old, and I thought these would be adorable with any outfit. Unfortunately I haven’t seen my niece in a while, so I wasn’t able to get a picture of her wearing these. But we can just use our imaginations and see how cute they are on a baby girl.

I think My Baby Clothes is a great place for any baby gifts that you might need. You can purchase through their website- www.mybabyclothes.com.  And they are offering a $25 gift card to their store for giveaway. Be sure to check out the rafflecopter entry form below.


*Disclaimer: I received this product for review. All opinions are my own.*

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Women of Faith Conference

I had the wonderful opportunity to participate in a review of  a Women of Faith conference. Have you heard of Women of Faith? "Women of Faith is a faith-based women's organization encouraging women of all ages and stages in life to grow in faith and spiritual maturity through a relationship with Jesus Christ and an understanding of God’s love and grace."

I have heard of this event for years. I've known family and friends who have been fortunate enough to participate in past events. I am so excited that I am getting the opportunity to go myself.

There are Women of Faith Conferences in major cities all over the US. I am attending the Women of Faith Imagine conference in Indianapolis, IN Friday and Saturday. I am lucky that my cousin lives in Indy, and she was able to come with me to the event. We don't get to see each other that often, but this is a fun thing that we'll definitely enjoy together. Plus Sandra graciously offered to let me stay at their house, so I didn't have to book a hotel. And we could carpool to the events from her house on Friday and Saturday.

Some of the things we'll see at the conference are inspiring speakers, music, drama and more. Women from all over gather together to be inspired and grow in their faith. For the Indianapolis event the speakers include Sheila Walsh, Luci Swindoll, Lisa Harper and Angie Smith. They also list special guest Henry Cloud. A few of these I'm familiar with, and the others I can't wait to be introduced to.

Many of you may have heard about the stage collapse in Indianapolis last weekend where several people lost their lives at the state fair. Train and Maroon 5 are having a benefit concert in honor of that at the Conseco Fieldhouse in Indy tonight. The Women of Faith group was supposed to be setting up in that location tonight. But all is well. The Women of Faith event is still going to happen on Friday. They will have crews work through the night Thursday night to set up. They are willing to do this to help with this great cause for the families of the victims.

Here is a little preview of the event:


I'm looking forward to my time at the Women of Faith conference. I'll be taking pictures, tweeting with the #WoFImagine hashtag, and posting on Facebook. When I get back I'll post again about my time there. If you want to stay in touch, just follow me on Twitter and Facebook. I'll try to check in Friday afternoon and Saturday night, so I can answer any questions that you may have. And maybe I'll see you if you're going to be at this event too. I hope you have a great time!

And if you're not going, be sure to look for the nearest Women of Faith event and get your tickets now. I'm sure you won't regret it!


*Disclosure: I have received tickets to this event. I will be sharing about my experience while I'm there. All opinions are my own.*

Back to School ... Pray!

Back to School ... Pray!
By Carla McDougal

Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.
- Deuteronomy 6:5,7

Excitement’s in the air! Anticipation rises. It’s that time of year when the kids go back to school.

Who can forget watching your child go to "big school" for the first time? I remember those bittersweet moments as each of my four children kissed me good-bye. I always knew that day would arrive, but nothing prepared me for the moment.

Elementary school seemed to fly by and almost overnight they were in junior high and then high school. And in a blink of an eye, they were off to college. Where did the years go?

I learned early on that when my children were away from home, praying for them comforted me. By turning them over to God I experienced a calm peace. Year after year my prayers intensified, yet remained the same…

• Elementary School – Will he make a friend? Will he eat all his lunch, or just the cookies and chips? God help him to love You with all his heart.
• Junior/Senior High –Will he make the right friends? Is he paying attention to the teacher? God, help him love You with all his soul.
• College - Will he make some forever friends? Is he making the right life decisions? God, help him to love You with all his strength.

Just as our children face challenges, we as moms face our own set of challenges…

• To pray over our children no matter where they are in life.
• To be on our knees for those God entrusted to us.
• To ultimately pray for each child to love Jesus with all his heart, soul, and mind!
• Finally, to let them know we are praying for them each day! What a blessing it is to pray for our children.

I ask you to take advantage of this new season too. Do you need a fresh start? Where are you in your relationship with God? In my Bible study, Reflecting Him – Living for Jesus and Loving It, I encourage you to find Jesus in your everyday activities. He is there for us 24 hours a day, and He wants to hear our everyday prayers!

Author Bio

CARLA MCDOUGAL is founder of Reflective Life Ministries headquartered in the Houston, Texas area. Her true passion for her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, shines brightly, whether she is speaking or writing. She shares experiences from her own life to encourage women to live every day for Him. God is sending Carla around the world to speak to women from all walks of life—those living in the best of circumstances to those who have hit rock bottom.

Carla’s book, Reflecting Him: Living for Jesus and Loving It, is a 10-week study that encourages you to open your eyes to God’s daily life lessons. The more you ask God to be in your life, the more you will recognize His hand on everything you do. For more information on a growing number of products from Reflective Life Ministries, and to see about booking Carla for an event or interview, go to www.reflectivelifeministries.org.

*This article content was provided free of charge by the author through Kathy Carlton Willis Communications.*