"Burton the Scarecrow–Friendship Tales" from the Farm Series by V. A. Boeholt

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

It's fall now. Time to get out the decorations, prepare for Halloween and get the seasonal books out for the kids, I'm sure I'm not the only mom who does this. (Well, I'm not really sure actually. Am I??) I like to keep seasonal books together in the closet, then I can get them out to show the kids and excite them about changing seasons and upcoming holidays. It was especially fun in the preschool and toddler years.

The product:

“A sweet, enchanting story of friendship, with memorable opportunities for learning. Everyone needs a friend like Burton the Scarecrow!”

–Meridel Hedges, National Learning Styles Consultant and Educational Reading Specialist

Website: www.ScarecrowStories.com / List price: $14.95

V.A. Boeholt brings Burton the Scarecrow to life with endearing tales about gardening, farming, and friendship. Whether he’s protecting Farmer Green’s crops or helping his friends, Burton sets an example of kindness and commitment that will help young readers develop these strengths within themselves. Interactive readers’ guides and curriculum supplements help parents and teachers apply Burton’s wisdom at home or in the classroom, setting the stage for character development in an enjoyable, memorable way. Boeholt’s Friendship Tales from the Farm series a must for children and their caregivers, creating delightful moments of interactive storytelling that will enrich any learning environment.

What we thought: So, the truth is my oldest son is past the preschooler age. But that means he can read and enjoy books on his own, whenever he wants, now. Burton is a kind scarecrow, not the scary kind, and he helps children learn about many different things. Your children will find this story cheerful and entertaining. And since it's the season for all things fall, this will fit right in with your other activities. I know that your children will enjoy this book just as much as my son and I did.

Where to buy: You can find Burton the Scarecrow online.

"Mended" by Angie Smith

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

I first heard this author speak a few years ago at a Women of Faith conference. She is so funny and really personable, even when she speaks to a crowd of thousands of women. Angie Smith has some amazing stories to tell about her life and living in God. Her story of lovingly carrying a pregnancy to term, knowing the baby would not live, is heartbreaking. But she relies on God for all the hard times in her life and shares her story of faith.

The product:  "Mended: Pieces of a Life Made Whole" (B&H, September 2012; ISBN-13: 978-1433676604, $14.99) -- We love to cheer for the underdog and believe to our core that every life makes a difference. And we are right. There is no one God can’t use and no one whose brokenness is too broken for God. We know this is true for our friends when we want to encourage them. Yet, when it comes to the places of our innermost sense of shame and regret, we often wonder if it is really true that God can work all things together for good for those who love Him.

Mended takes you on a journey to show how faith lived in the regular events of daily life is all that it takes to be a part of creating God’s picture of redemption in your life and those around you. Your life does make a difference—because of how He is magnified in the cracks.

About Angie Smith
Angie Smith is the wife of Todd Smith (lead singer of Dove Award winning group Selah), author of "I Will Carry You and What Women Fear," and one of the most popular speakers and blog writers in the country. She holds a master’s degree in developmental psychology from Vanderbilt University and lives with her husband and daughters in Nashville, Tenn.

What I thought: I was really excited to read this book. I so enjoyed hearing Angie Smith talk at Women of Faith. But I had not had a chance to read any of her books yet. It turns out that she writes a lot like she talks. She has a funny, relatable, down to earth way of sharing things. I get her. And as a mom of young children, I get so many of her stories.

In Mended Angie Smith paints a great picture of the way God fixes our broken lives. We are all broken in some way. And this book is just the uplifting encouragement you need to start putting the pieces back together. You'll enjoy this devotional. It is written in little sections that you can read every day. I hope that it gives you the encouragement you need. It also makes a nice gift for any woman in your life.

Where to buy: You'll find Mended by Angie Smith in stores and online.

Big Top Scooby-Doo Blu-ray & DVD

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

Scooby Dooby Doo where are you.... You know the song, and your kids probably do too. Scooby is in this original movie Big Top Scooby-Doo on DVD/Blu-Ray now.

The product: Big Top Scooby-Doo - Shaggy, Scooby and the rest of the Mystery Inc. gang are looking forward to a vacation in Atlantic City. Things are never that easy for this gang and they end up in a circus mystery. This time they get to go undercover and join the circus.

Scooby-Doo, Shaggy and the gang arrive in Atlantic City for a relaxing vacation...and land center stage in a three-ring mystery! 

After visiting a shuttered big top that's being hounded by werewolves, the gang goes undercover to find out why. It's up to Daphne the clown, trapeze artist Fred, Velma the human rocket, ringmaster Shaggy and the amazing trick dog Scooby-Doo to solve the mystery and save the circus. But when they repeat their crowd-pleasing performance for Shaggy's favorite Swedish metal band, Wulfsmoon, the beasts come back for one more hair-raising ruckus. Scooby-Doo and Shaggy juggle fun, fright and feats of bravery and puzzle-solving skill in the greatest original Scooby-Doo movie on earth.

What we thought: This movie was a fun mystery with all of the gang involved. It's nice to get a full Scooby movie once in a while versus the short episodes. And the circus theme made it that much more entertaining. This is another fun film that the whole family can enjoy.

Where to buy: You can find the Big Top Scooby-Doo on DVD and Blu-Ray in stores and online now.

Scooby-Doo! 13 Spooky Tales: Ruh-Roh Robot! DVD

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

I don't have to tell you that my son is a big Scooby-Doo fan. I know I've mentioned it before. This latest Scooby Doo DVD set will not disappoint.

About the product:

JINKIES!

IT’S 13 ACTION-PACKED MYSTERIES THAT NEED SOLVING

ON WARNER BROS. HOME ENTERTAINMENT’S RELEASE OF

SCOOBY-DOO! 13 SPOOKY TALES: RUH-ROH ROBOT!

AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER 24, 2013

Release Features an All-New 22-Minute Scooby-Doo! Cartoon

BURBANK, CA (July 2, 2013) – Join Scooby-Doo and his pals for 13 zany, animated adventures on Scooby-Doo! 13 Spooky Tales: Ruh-Roh Robot! available in stores September 24, 2013 from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment (WBHE). This two-disc set will feature an all-new, 22-minute cartoon titled Scooby-Doo! Mecha Mutt Menace, plus 12 exciting mysteries that will delight kids and adults alike. Scooby-Doo! 13 Spooky Tales: Ruh-Roh Robot! will retail for $19.98 SRP.

Scooby-Doo and the gang are together again in this exciting collection that’s comprised of fan favorite episodes which are offered together for the first time in one set.  Strange and mystifying happenings take our favorite Great Dane and his pals on a variety of thrilling escapades the whole family will enjoy watching together.

On Foul Play in Funland, the gang is compelled to investigate a sea-side amusement park, which appears haunted when it comes to life all on its own. Scooby-Doo visits Mars on Way Out Scooby. A thief finds a way to shrink cars in order to steal them onDisappearing Car Caper. The gang is terrorized by a dinosaur on The Dinosaur Deception and encounters killer bees on The Bee Team. The ghost of George Washington haunts the White House on Night Louse at the White House. These and other captivating mysteries await viewers on this not-to-be-missed release.

“Scooby-Doo! 13 Spooky Tales: Ruh-Roh Robot! offers a wonderful mix of popular Scooby-Doo episodes plus a brand-new, 22-minute cartoon we created especially for this set,” says Mary Ellen Thomas, Vice President of Family and Animation Marketing and Partner Brands. She added, “We think consumers will enjoy the selection of cartoons we’ve chosen for this set. The cartoons have been culled from a variety of different Scooby-Doo animated series. If you’re a Scooby-Doo fan, this is an entertaining release you won’t want to miss.” 

Featured Episodes:

1. Scooby-Doo! Mecha Mutt Menace – All-new 22-minute cartoon
2. Foul Play in Funland
3. The Scary Sky Skeleton
4. Way Out Scooby
5. Who’s Scooby-Doo?
6. Disappearing Car Caper
7. The Dinosaur Deception
8. The Hand of Horror
9. Doom Service
10. A Code in the Nose
11. The Bee Team
12. A Night Louse at the White House, Part I
13. A Night Louse at the White House, Part II

What we thought: As expected my son loved this DVD. It's just a fun cartoon, especially for a 7 year old boy! Shaggy and Scoob always have great burping and farting funnies. What 7 year old wouldn't love that?

This DVD has 13 great episodes of spooky tales. And it's just in time to gear up for Halloween. I think your kids will enjoy this Scooby Doo collection.

Where to buy: The Scooby-Doo! 13 Spooky Tales: Ruh-Roh Robot! DVD is available in stores and online now.

Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated Season 2 Part 1: Danger in the Deep DVD

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

The product:

THOSE MEDDLING KIDS AND THEIR LOVABLE DOG ARE BACK!

SCOOBY-DOO! MYSTERY INCORPORATED SEASON 2 PART 1: DANGER IN THE DEEP

IS AVAILABLE ON DVD NOVEMBER 13, 2012

FROM WARNER HOME VIDEO

Release Features 13 Episodes from the Hit Cartoon Network TV Series

BURBANK, CA (September 18, 2012) – Captivating new mysteries and intriguing new villains will delight viewers on Warner Home Video’s DVD release of Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated Season 2 Part 1: Danger in the Deep, available November 13, 2012. The latest incarnation of the popular Scooby-Doo! franchise, Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated follows teenage pals Daphne, Fred, Velma, Shaggy and Scooby-Doo as they investigate strange happenings in their hometown of Crystal Cove. The release will feature 13 episodes from the second season of the hit animated series and will retail for $19.97 SRP.

In Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated Season 2 Part 1: Danger in the Deep, the gang returns to their hometown, Crystal Cove, to solve a series of baffling mysteries. First on the agenda is the elusive Crybaby Clown, who tortures the Cove’s inhabitants and evades Scooby-Doo and the gang’s every attempt to capture him. Velma travels to Russia and comes face-to-face with legendary witch, Baba Yaga. A creature named Dreamweaver begins to haunt people’s dreams. Crystal Cove is attacked by a menacing beast known as the Hodag of Horror. It’s a season filled with engaging mysteries and dramatic developments that’s not to be missed!

“Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated Season 2 Part 1: Danger in the Deep presents fans with a fresh and fun version of the classic cartoon we all know and love. The stories are richer and more complex. The characters show greater depth and personality,” said Mary Ellen Thomas, Vice President Family & Animation Marketing and Partner Brands. She added, “While it’s aimed at kids, adults will find themselves easily wrapped up in both the personal storylines and the unfolding mysteries. If you’re a fan of Scooby-Doo!, this is a must-have for your home entertainment collection.”

The first season finale of Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated was Cartoon Network’s most watched program of the day and ranked #1 with Kids and Girls ages 2-11 and 6-11, while also ranking in the top 3 with all Boys.* Additionally, the animated series’ first season finale delivered over 2.5 million total viewers.*

Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated centers on Fred, Daphne, Velma, Shaggy and Scooby-Doo, who solve mysteries in the spooky town of Crystal Cove, a sleepy coastal village that boasts a long history of ghostly sightings, werewolves and glowing deep sea divers. Because of all the paranormal activity, Crystal Cove has become a tourist hotspot that capitalizes on its haunted reputation— and the gang's meddling is therefore not appreciated by the people of Crystal Cove. Executive produced by Sam Register, Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated draws on the iconic look and feel of the original Scooby-Doo! series and is presented in a modernized visual style created by some of today's leading animation artists.

FEATURED EPISODES:

1. The Night the Clown Cried
2. House of the Nightmare Witch
3. The Night the Clown Cried II: Tears of Doom!
4. Web of the Dreamweaver!
5. The Hodag of Horror
6. Art of Darkness
7. The Gathering Gloom
8. The Night of the Haunted Mountain
9. Grim Judgement
10. Night Terrors
11. The Midnight Zone
12. Scarebear
13. Wrath of the Krampus

What we thought: My son is crazy for Scooby Doo. And why wouldn't he be. I loved Scooby Doo as a child too. I think it's great that there is a cartoon that is loved by generations. That said, I'm a little more for the old school Scooby. This is part of the newer series. The animations and characters are a bit different in the newer cartoon, but Zachariah loves it none the less. He watches on TV, but it's great to have this DVD to take with us on the road or at home. It's one that your kids will all enjoy too.

Where to buy: The Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated Season 2 Part 1: Danger in the Deep DVD is available in stores and online now.

Maesto Classics "Carnival of the Animals" CD

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

The product: Over 50 National Awards ...

CARNIVAL OF THE ANIMALS
from
MAESTRO CLASSICS™
 

A Stories in Music™ CD for Narrator, Soloists, and Orchestra
Featuring the London Philharmonic Orchestra
Stephen Simon, Conductor
 

"If your little ones are past the age of getting their classical music from Baby Einstein, here is the perfect next step." -- Entertainment Weekly

"You don't have to love classical music to fall under theenchanting spell of Stephen Simon's magical production." --Parents' Choice Awards
 

NEW YORK --  Maestro Classics™, winner of over 50 prestigious awards for its Stories In Music™ CD series, proudly announces therelease of the company's tenth CD for family listening, a sparkling, child-friendly rendition of Camille Saint-Saëns' famous,whimsical masterpiece for narrator, soloists, and orchestra, Carnival of theAnimals. (Maestro Classics, $16.98, for ages 3+ and families, run time 70 minutes).
 
Lions roar, elephants dance, roosters crow at clucking hens, kangaroos leap, fish swim, wild donkeys race, xylophones clatter like fossils, clarinets cuckoo, virtuosic flutes imitate sounds of the aviary, the cello plays its famous swan song, and the tortoise does the world's slowest can-can in Saint-Saëns' musical picture gallery of the animal kingdom that also includes pianists practicing scales and some animals with long ears who are rumored to be music critics.

The Maestro Classics recording of Carnival of the Animals features thedroll verse that Ogden Nash wrote for each of the work's fourteen movements, recited here by Maestro Classics' beloved narrator, Yadu(a.k.a. Dr. Konrad Czynski).
 
With eminent conductor Stephen Simon directing the London Philharmonic Orchestra, stellar contributions by pianists Wendy Chen and Donna Kwong, a lovely interpretation of the French folk song "Au Clair de la Lune" by soprano Rachel Barham, and intriguing observations by Stephen Simon and "elucidator" Bonnie Ward Simon, in addition to a French/English interactive singing project and activities offered in a beautifully illustrated, 24-page program booklet, this recording of Carnival of the Animals will be treasured forever by children and adults alike.

Notes Bonnie Ward Simon, "The story goes that in 1950, America's pioneer pops conductor, André Kostelanetz, noticed that no one in the audience was smiling when he performed Carnival of the Animals.  They thought that all classical music should be serious!  He was so taken aback that he personally commissioned Ogden Nash to write verses to go with the music so that audiences would understand that Saint-Saëns intended the music to be funny.  Generations of children now remember the pianos roaring like lions and couplets like 'Elephants are useful friends, Equipped with handles at both ends,' as part of a wonderful childhood experience with music."

What we thought: Here is another great children's CD from Maestro Classics. My son really enjoys the classical music with their CDs. And it is so neat for them to make fun lyrics and music that children love. My son enjoyed this one, and I think it's perfect for children of all ages.

Where to buy: You can purchase the Carnival of Animals CD on their website or Amazon.

How to connect: Learn more about Maestro Classics at http://maestroclassics.com. You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter. 

"Taming the Wind" by Tracie Peterson - Land of the Lone Star #3

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

I think I've mentioned my love for historical fiction on here before. (Probably more than a few times.) You also probably know that I like the author Tracie Peterson (a lot!). So it was wonderful when I was able to review Taming the Wind by Tracie Peterson.

The product: Taming the Wind is the third book in the Land of the Lone Star series by Tracie Peterson. Here's a little description from the publisher:

Though grateful for the blessing of her daughter, Carissa Lowe has accepted that widowhood is her lot in life. Bound by fear and mistrust, she feels incapable of opening her heart again.

Tyler Atherton has never forgotten Carissa. When he discovers she's living with her sister on a nearby ranch, his life becomes intertwined with the lovely widow's. But while Tyler longs to provide a home and future for Carissa, he is haunted by an obligation he feels unable to fulfill.

What I thought: This book was a great way to wrap up the series Land of the Lone Star. The second book, Touching the Sky, is about the Marquardt sisters. This story fast forwards a few years with the sisters in a new place with children and a new life ahead. But Carissa is in a unique situation as a single mother in this time. However, that doesn't mean than she won't find love again.

I enjoyed this book. It was nice that we get to hear the continuing story of Carissa. Her life really has changed and she learns more about herself as life deals new adventures and problems too.

Where to buy: Taming the Wind by Tracie Peterson is available in stores and online.

Poppin Hoppies By University Games

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

My 7 year old son, Zachariah, loves playing games. From the time he was little he enjoyed puzzles, then simple card games. Now he can play just about any adult game and keep up with us. From Monopoly to Go Fish, he loves them all. His room is full of fun games and puzzles that he enjoys daily.

The product: We received the game called Poppin Hoppies from University Games, who has many other great games and activities for kids. It is a fun game and perfect for younger children. Poppin Hoppies comes with a game board, people puzzle pieces, and little "hoppies" with suction cups and springs. Everyone helps hold down the "hoppies" until the fun begins. When the designated paler gives the command, all the "poppies" are released. They pop up at random and the object is to catch as many as you can. It's harder than you'd think. Then you get to pick a coordinating color piece of your character. The first one to complete their character puzzle wins.

What we thought: Poppin Hoppies is easy for my 7 year old, but it's fun to play together. There isn't much thinking or strategy involved in this game, but it's full of energy and excitement. The little "hoppies" jumping at random sure make things interesting. My mom and I have played this with Zachariah as well. You'd think it would be really easy for the adults...but you'd be wrong. While the idea is easy, it's actually tricky to catch those little "hoppies" as they are all popping all over the place.

I like that this is an easy game to set up and play quickly. People of all ages can join in the fun. Have a fun family night with your kids with Poppin Hoppies.

Where to buy: You can find Poppin Hoppies in stores (book & game stores especially) and online.

Winners

I am a bit behind at posting winners for some recent giveaways. I know there haven't been as many lately, but stay with me. There will be more to come.

Winners of the Escape From Planet Earth Blu-ray/DVD combos are...

#175 Cynthia R

&

#209 Michelle C

Winner of the Brew Over Ice prize pack is...

#32 brookea_2006

Winner of the Kia Hamsters $25 iTunes gift card is...

#76 Wild Orchid


Congrats to all the winners!! You have been notified via email with instructions for claiming your prize. Be sure to come back soon for more giveaways.

Favorite Children's Book Becomes Movie: Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

One of my favorite children's book is coming to the big screen. I remember Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day from my childhood. We had a copy of the book at home that got read often. There were also many teachers at school who had it in their classrooms, and I remember it being read often. A few years ago I bought a copy of this book for my own son. It was fun to share not only a piece of my childhood but a great story with him. Now I'm happy to see it's being made into a movie. It will be interesting to see how it turns out.

 

DISNEY’S

“ALEXANDER AND THE TERRIBLE, HORRIBLE, NO GOOD, VERY BAD DAY” BEGINS PRODUCTION

 

Film to Shoot Entirely in Los Angeles Area; Hits Theaters October 10, 2014

 

BURBANK, Calif.  — Disney has kicked off production on “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day,” the first live-action film adaptation of Judith Viorst’s 1972 illustrated children’s classic. The film, directed by Independent Spirit Award-winner Miguel Arteta (“The Good Girl,” “Cedar Rapids,” “Youth in Revolt”) from a screenplay by Rob Lieber, is a 21 Laps Entertainment/Jim Henson Company production. Shooting in the Los Angeles area, with locations in the cities of Pasadena and Arcadia, the San Fernando Valley and Melody Ranch in Newhall, the film hits theaters nationwide on October 10, 2014.

 

Steve Carell (“The Way, Way Back,” “Little Miss Sunshine,” the forthcoming “Foxcatcher”) and Jennifer Garner (“Dallas Buyers Club, “The Odd Life of Timothy Green,” “Juno”) star as Alexander’s upbeat parents. The veteran performers are joined in the film by a trio of young talents that includes 16-year-old Dylan Minnette (“Lost,” the upcoming “Prisoners”) as Alexander’s older brother, Anthony; 15-year-old Kerris Dorsey (TV’s “Ray Donovan,” “Moneyball”) as sister Emily; and 12-year-old Australian native Ed Oxenbould (Oz TV’s “Puberty Blues”), who makes his big-screen feature debut as the film’s title character, Alexander.

 

Emmy® winner (and Golden Globe® nominee) Megan Mullally (“Will & Grace”) also joins the cast, along with Jennifer Coolidge (“American Pie,” “Legally Blonde,” TV’s “2 Broke Girls”) and Bella Thorne (“Shake It Up!”).

 

The film is produced by Shawn Levy (“Night at the Museum,” “Date Night,” “Real Steel”), Emmy® nominee and CEO of the Jim Henson Company Lisa Henson, and 21 Laps Entertainment President Dan Levine (“The Internship,” “Along Came Polly,” “Freedom Writers”). It’s executive produced by industry veteran Philip Steuer (“Saving Mr. Banks,” “Oz The Great and Powerful,” “The Chronicles of Narnia” trilogy) and Jason Lust (“Whip It,” “The Waiting Game”). 

 

Disney’s “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day” follows the exploits of 11-year-old Alexander as he experiences the most terrible and horrible day  of his young life—a day that begins with gum stuck in his hair, followed by one calamity after another. But when Alexander tells his upbeat family about the misadventures of his disastrous day, he finds little sympathy and begins to wonder if bad things only happen to him. He soon learns that he’s not alone when his brother, sister, mom and dad all find themselves living through their own terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. Anyone who says there is no such thing as a bad day just hasn't had one.

 

Director Arteta’s key filmmaking team includes cinematographer Terry Stacey (“50/50,” “Salmon Fishing in the Yemen”), two-time Oscar®-nominated production designer Michael Corenblith (“The Blind Side,” “Saving Mr. Banks,” HBO’s “Game Change”), and two artists with whom he has previously collaborated: Oscar-nominated film editor Pam Martin (“The Fighter,” “Little Miss Sunshine,” “Youth in Revolt”) and veteran costume designer Nancy Steiner (“Little Miss Sunshine,” “Lost in Translation,” “The Good Girl,” “Youth in Revolt”).

 

“Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day,” published in 1972, was written by Judith Viorst and illustrated by Ray Cruz. The endearing, enduring classic (with more than 2 million copies in print) became an ALA Notable Children’s Book while also winning a George G. Stone Center Recognition of Merit, a Georgia Children’s Book Award, and distinction as a Reading Rainbow book. Viorst followed this book (inspired by her own three sons’ childhoods—Alexander, Anthony and Nicholas) with two sequels: “Alexander, Who Used to be Rich Last Sunday” (1978) and “Alexander, Who's Not (Do You Hear Me? I Mean It!) Going to Move” (1995). The 1972 original was first adapted to the small screen as a half-hour HBO animated musical in 1990 before Viorst collaborated with composers Charles Strouse (music) and Shelley Markham (musical score) for a 1998 stage musical at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

Waiting for Morning by Margaret Brownley

Disclaimer: I received this book to review from BookSneeze. All opinions are my own.

I have always enjoyed historical fiction. I find that there are many great books out there right now in this category. I don't mind, because I have enjoyed all the ones I read. I find that with historical fiction most authors tie factual events, times, places into the story. I learn things from the factual events and locations that deal with a certain time in history. The stories about love and friendship are a nice way to enjoy the story too. Waiting for Morning by Margaret Brownley is a story of a determined woman, trying to help her family, but love appears where she least expects it.

The product:
Waiting for Morning by Margaret Brownley
The Brides of Last Chance Ranch, #2

Molly Hatfield comes to Arizona Territory seeking stability and security. But living in Cactus Patch provides her with more than she ever dreamed.

There is nothing Molly wouldn’t do for her teenaged brother, Donny. Blaming herself for the accident that left him wheelchair bound, Molly has dedicated her life to his care. But in 1896, gainful employment for a woman is hard to come by. So when Molly learns that an eccentric rancher in Cactus Patch, Arizona, is looking for an heiress—someone to take over management of the ranch in exchange for future ownership—she jumps at the chance to provide a real home for her brother.

However, Molly didn’t bank on meeting Dr. Caleb Fairbanks, the town’s charming unmarried doctor. Caleb has a way with Molly that makes her nervous. But it’s how he is with her brother that really alarms her. Caleb sees past the wheelchair and genuinely likes Donny, but Molly fears he’s putting unrealistic ideas into her brother’s head. Falling in love with Caleb would threaten everything she’s worked for, even her brother’s future happiness. But it could be the very reason God brought her to Last Chance Ranch.

What I thought: This book is the second in a series by Margaret Brownley called The Brides of Last Chance Ranch. I reviewed the first in the series Dawn Comes Early. It was a great book. This is another good one that you will enjoy as well. Molly heads to Last Chance Ranch with a goal in mind. She wants to provide for her family. This seems like just the place to do it, but the local doctor starts making her question her feelings. Read along to find out if love is in the air for these two.

Where to buy: This is available in stores and online.

FRAAS Mystical Waters Scarves

Scarves as accessories have been on the fashion scene for a while. I can see why, though. They are versatile and easy to wear with anything. You can find heavier-weight ones for colder weather, and light-weight is perfect for warm temperatures. You can get a beautiful scarf to match any outfit.

The product: The rising interest in chic, year-round accessories and fashion layering is evident everywhere. Fashion-savvy women have discovered the versatility of scarves as an accessory and are collecting them each season to accent their wardrobes and individualize their personal style. FRAAS is on target with an exciting new range for Spring-Summer 2013, which focuses on three stories.

Mystical Coast incorporates an opulent, iridescent, natural composite for prints and deluxe, yet gentle detailing. East Meets West presents modernity meeting tradition. Jungle Fever is a lively, hot summer story encompassing the plant life of the jungle and the vivid creatures that occupy it. Lightweights in cotton, modal, silk, viscose chiffon, acrylic, tropical weight wool and blends flow beautifully in solid, ombre, floral, fruit, stripe, plaid, dotted, splatter-paint, animal, sea and abstract patterns. Some are textured via crinkling, embroidering and puckering effects, others are classic, and several are sheer and gauzy. Infinity silhouettes continue and are clearly understood by consumers because they are so easy to wear. There are several options that are unisex so that everyone can own a FRAAS scarf this season. FRAAS is also on the mark with their color trends in which the season's prettiest neutral/soft, mid-tone, ad bright palette options are represented within the range.

Retails range from $28 to about $130 (silk blend). There is no other fashion accessory that makes such a strong fashion statement for this affordability and has so many flexible wearing options. Several styles can be folded as head wraps, waist wraps, sarongs, and depending on the style, even a halter top. Others do double duty and can be used as a shawl for coo; nights, air conditioning, travel and, again, the creation of a chic fashion accessory statement. Easy to wear, simple to drape or tie, this line makes great sense for a self or gift purchase. Style 623949 which is appropriately named, Mystical Waters, is a very beautiful, oversized printed style that measures 40x72 inches. Therefore, it is a versatile look that can be worn as a wrap or scarf. It retails for $48 and is available in vibrant combinations, including turquoise and coral options. It works with day or evening looks and is on target with its flattering palette and popular viscose yarn.

"Developing exceptional, well-timed, attractive products has always been a priority for us as FRAAS," says Aimee Zucchetti, Brand and Sales Manager for the company. "We hope we can help consumers renew their attire with energizing, affordable looks so that everyone has the opportunity to accessorize like a fashionista!" Ken Krieger, the VP of Sales for the company agrees and adds, "Whenever a woman wants to add a finishing touch and zest to her look -- she can reach for one of our FRAAS styles and be confident that it will produce the perfect result. It is astounding what a difference a scarf can make to the total look."

About FRAAS: Scarf producer V. Fraas (corporate owner of the FRAAS brand) celebrates more than 130 years in business. Ever since its foundation in 1880 by Valentin Fraas, the world leader for mufflers and shawls has thrived and advanced under the control of his descendants -- as remarkable feat in this transitory world. But V. Fraas has more to celebrate than mere longevity: it is a forward looking company that continues to expand at a quick pace, and it is continuously implementing new ideas and concepts. From its bases in New York, Paris, London, Wustenselbitz, Toronto and Shanghai, V. Fraas' design teams travel to major shows and forecasting seminars throughout the globe to identify new trends and develop products that are perfectly attuned to fashion and customer demand. The company's research team, meanwhile, works unceasingly to develop and discover new yarn, fabric and methods of manufacturing products that are of truly outstanding quality. Truly internationally oriented, the company boasts sales subsidiaries and satellite offices in New York, Toronto, London, Paris, Berlin, Denmark, Italy, India, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Tokyo. Products are distributed worldwide via department and specialty stores as well as online retails.


What I thought: I received the Mystical Waters FRAAS scarf in pink. It is really pretty. It looks like the one pictured above. It was just long enough for me to gather and tie it in a knot to wear around my neck. It was a great summer accessory. It was light-weight and was useful to keep the sun off me. These are great scarves that are well-made and will hold up over time.

Where to buy: You can purchase this or other FRAAS scarves directly from the company by calling 212-575-0191. Select styles are also available at fraas.com and amazon.com.

Scooby-Doo! Stage Fright DVD + Blu-ray Combo

My 7 year old son, Zachariah, loves Scooby Doo. He has been a fan since years. Any time that he can find it on TV, he's most likely watching it. We have quite a few Scooby videos and he never gets tired of him.

The product: 

PHANTOMS TRY TO STEAL THE SHOW IN

SCOOBY-DOO! STAGE FRIGHT

THE MUST-HAVE ORIGINAL NEW ANIMATED FILM

FROM WARNER HOME BROS. HOME ENTERTAINMENT

AVAILABLE ON BLU-RAY® WITH ULTRAVIOLET^TM AND DVD

AUGUST 20, 2013

Release Features Bonus Scooby-Doo! Episodes

BURBANK, CA (May 8, 2013) – It’s a show-stopping performance you won’t want to miss on Scooby-Doo! Stage Fright, the all-new animated feature-length movie making its big debut on Blu-ray™ and DVD, August 20, 2013 from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment (WBHE) and produced by Warner Bros. Animation. Join the Scooby and the Mystery Inc. gang as they try to raise the curtain on a ghostly mystery that’s haunting a creepy opera house, which happens to be the home of a popular, hit TV talent show. Scooby-Doo! Stage Fright will be sold in a Blu-ray combo pack (including the Blu-ray, standard DVD and UltraViolet™ editions of the film), which retails for $24.98 SRP and on standard DVD, which retails for $19.98 SRP (DVD).

It’s an exciting trip to Chicago for Scooby, Shaggy and the Mystery Inc. crew when two of their own, songwriting duo Fred and Daphne, are finalists in the hit TV show, Talent Star. Not to be left out, Scooby and Shaggy have a secret act in the works, which they are betting will take the contest by storm.  Unluckily for everyone, the competition is frightful — the show is broadcast from an opera house with a history of horrors and a particularly vengeful phantom that has cursed the show’s production. From costume changin’ chases to creepy clues, the show must go on.  With a natural talent like Scooby-Doo on the case, you can be sure that the laughs, thrills and hijinks are always first place!

“We are constantly challenged to find fresh and exciting new adventures for Scooby and the gang. Scooby-Doo! Stage Fright, with its TV Talent Show setting, really delivers on a spookily fun tale that appeals to Scooby-Doo fans young and old,” said Mary Ellen Thomas, Vice President Family & Animation Marketing and Partner Brands. She added, “We think fans will have a lot of fun with this new title. It has something for everyone…perfect for a family movie night.”

The Blu-ray™ combo pack will include UltraViolet which allows consumers to download and instantly stream the standard definition theatrical version of the film to a wide range of devices, including computers and compatible tablets, smartphones, game consoles, Internet-connected TVs and Blu-ray players.*

Bonus Episodes:

• Don’t Fool with a Phantom
• Never Ape an Ape Man

UltraViolet

*UltraViolet allows you to collect, watch and share movies and TV shows in a whole new way.  Available with the purchase of specially marked Blu-ray discs, DVDs and Digital Downloads, UltraViolet lets you create a digital collection of movies and TV shows.  Services such as Flixster and VUDU allow you to instantly stream and download UltraViolet content across a wide range of devices including computers and compatible tablets, smartphones, game consoles, Internet-connected TVs and Blu-ray players.  Restrictions and limitations apply.  Go to ultraviolet.flixster.com/info for details.  Learn about VUDU compatible devices at vudu.com.

The Credits

About Warner Bros. Animation

Warner Bros. Animation (WBA) is one of the leading producers of animation in the entertainment industry, with an innovative and talent-rich roster boasting some of the most accomplished writers, producers and artists working today. The studio is on the cutting edge of animation technology and has both CG and traditionally animated projects in current production and development. For TV, WBA produces series such as The Looney Tunes Show, MAD, Teen Titans Go! and the forthcoming Beware The Batman and The Tom and Jerry Show for Cartoon Network. WBA also produces series and additional original content — including animated shorts — for Cartoon Network’s multiplatform branded DC Nation programming block. In addition to TV programming, WBA produces theatrically released CG cartoon shorts featuring iconic Looney Tunes characters, rendered in stereoscopic 3D. WBA also creates the highly successful series of DC Universe Original Animated Movies for DVD. Producing for multiple platforms including TV, digital and home entertainment both domestically and internationally, WBA is highly respected for its creative and technical excellence, as well as for maintaining the Studio’s rich cartoon heritage. It is also the home of the iconic animated characters from the DC Comics, Hanna-Barbera, MGM and Looney Tunes libraries. One of the most-honored animation studios in history, WBA has been honored with six Academy Awards®, 35 Emmy® Awards, the George Foster Peabody Award, an Environmental Media Award, a Parents’ Choice Award, the HUMANITAS Prize, two Prism Awards and 20 Annie Awards (honoring excellence in animation).

About Warner Bros. Home Entertainment, Inc.

Warner Bros. Home Entertainment (WBHE) brings together Warner Bros. Entertainment's home video, digital distribution, interactive entertainment, technical operations and anti-piracy businesses in order to maximize current and next-generation distribution scenarios. An industry leader since its inception, WBHE oversees the global distribution of content through packaged goods (Blu-ray Disc™ and DVD) and digital media in the form of electronic sell-through and video-on-demand via cable, satellite, online and mobile channels, and is a significant developer and publisher for console and online video game titles worldwide. WBHE distributes its product through third party retail partners and licensees, as well as directly to consumers through WBShop.com.

For more information on this and other titles distributed by Warner Bros. Home Entertainment, visit www.whvdirect.com.

*Limited Time Offer.  Restrictions and Limitations apply.  Does not include iTunes Digital Copy file.  Go to ultraviolet.flixster.com/info for details.

What we thought: Zachariah enjoyed this new DVD/Blu-ray combo. This Scooby Doo video is a new, feature-length movie. That means we've never seen it before. That made it great to see some new Scooby Doo material. Of course as always there was not just Scooby, but the whole Mystery Inc gang along to solve the mystery at the opera house. This movie is now added to our list of keeps and must-watched. I know your family will love it just as much as we did.

Where to buy: Scooby-Doo! Stage Fright just hit stores last week. You can also find it online.