Christmas gift for your curious child? Check out "The One Year, Did you Know devotions 2"

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The One Year Did You Know Devotions 2, by Nancy Hill is a great book for your curious child.  This book reminds me of those calendars you buy for your desk, with trivia, quotes, jokes, or scriptures.  The book has a page for every day of the year starting with January 1st.  The page title is a trivia question, like "Do all mosquitos bite?"  What makes this different from most trivia books is it the answers are based on Christian scriptures.  Each topic has a bible verse listed and is presented within the answer. Each topic have a biblical message applied to them.   I think this would make a great gift for your later elementary to middle school aged child. 

About the author:

Nancy Hill is a former school teacher who began writing devotionals for her own family an in the process became curious about everything from why Campbell's soup cans are red and white to where the word sofa came from.  If a child has a question, Nancy will find the answer. 

You can find this and other childrens(and adult) titles on http://www.tyndale.com/ Tyndale wants to help us all spend time with our family while sharing God's work with our children.  They have a variety of childrens devotionals to fit every family's need.

disclosure-I received this book for free to do this review.

Coupons ala cart coupon carton

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I used to keep my coupons in a spot in my purse.  When I was shopping I would have my purse open with coupons here and there and constantly looking through them and sticking them in my pocket to use at the checkout.  Then of course half the time I would forget them in my pocket.  Then I received the Coupons ala cart coupon carton  .

The coupon carton has made organizing my coupons much simpler.  The coupon carton comes with the carton which is a cardboard box with a cover that closes around the top when not in use, or wraps around the shopping cart handle while you are shopping.  This makes it hands free and does not take up the space that your child is sitting.  It also comes with a 12 dividers and category stickers and one main divider.  I categorize my coupons, then use the main divider section for the coupons that I will definitly be using that trip.  This makes everything right there in front of you, and conveniently hands free.

I really recommend this if you typically shop with your children in the seat of the shopping cart.  It is so much easier having the coupon carton wrap around the handle vs. sitting in the seat.  Then you still have room for your child and purse.

This has been nice this holiday season too...as I have kept all my holiday coupons inside and keep it in my car so when I am out shopping I have them conveniently there.  You could also add more dividers if you need to and have a spot for those shopping cards.

You can order these online through partyplansplus for $9.99 total(shipping included) and they accept paypal. 

Mabel's Labels Cyber Monday sales

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30% off Holiday Gift Tags and Return Address Labels

Regular Price: $18.50, sale price $12.95

 

40% off Selected Write-On! Stationery, in choice of Bzzz or Cowpoke designs

Regular Price $34, sale price $20.40

Mommy Madness Monday

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So the Thanksgiving week is over....how did you do?  Are you stuffed still...I am glad my leftovers are finally gone...I think I ate mashed potatoes and turkey for 4 days straight...I am sure when I weigh myself in a little while I will notice it!  I did not go out shopping Friday.  I was debating going, but decided not to get the big item that we would have saved on.  We decided to wait on getting a blu-ray player, so one expense down.  I have done a lot of my shopping before last weekend, so I didnt feel like going out for a few items.  I was tired anyways and didnt feel like getting up at 3am!  So today is Cyber Monday...I might be checking out some deals online and see if I can get some gifts that way.  Right now I am entering the stride rite facebook fan appreciation giveaways.  They are doing them hourly today! 

I am not sure if Zach wanted to go back to school today.  He didnt want to get out of bed at first and decided to take his car blanket with him today.  I bet Kennedy will be glad to go back though and see her friends.  I  myself gotta work on reading some books for reviews/giveaways.  So keep watching this week.  I have some giveaways going on now and will be adding a few more. 

Here are this weeks winners.

rolled canvas giveaway- winner- ktgonyea
quantum oral health products-winner-bgcchs

Share your tips on saving time and money this holiday season

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Deals for Busy Moms This Holiday SeasonCheck out This Week's Deals!

About this TwitterMoms Blogging Program

Twittermoms and Staples want to know your tips on saving time and money this holiday season.  One tip would be to take advantage of all the black friday sales...which of course are over now...but today is Cyber Monday....so go online to your favorite stores and take advantage of the deals offered today!  You can check out Staples and see their holiday deals going on.

Another tip is take advantage of the free gift wrapping!  This saves you not only the money is gift wrap but also the time it takes to wrap the gifts.  Many stores offer this during the holidays and you could have them wrapped while you are out shopping at another store. 

Another tip...clip coupons.  Many stores offer coupons for an addition percentage off.

One last one...try to negotiate prices.  Just watched on the news that almost every store will give you a small discount if you just ask...Give them a good reason why ...like you saw it cheaper somewhere else or the package is open.

So what are your tips?  You can go to twittermoms and find out a way to enter a $100 Staples gift card giveaway by sharing your tips.

The Snowman's Song and guest post by author Marilee Joy Mayfield

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The Snowman’s Song:
A Christmas Story

Story by Marilee Joy Mayfield

Illustrations by Tracy La Rue Hohn

Sometimes you just come across a book that brings a tear to your eye.  For me this was that book!  Having a child that can not talk, I felt a connection from the beginning of the story "The Snowman's Song: A Christmas Story".  This beautifully told story, by Marilee Joy Mayfield,  about a little snowman longing to sing, will be a holiday favorite for years!  This children's book is so brilliantly told, adults will love it too.  The story really brings to heart the faith and joyfulness of Christmas.   Children will learn that they should never give up on their dreams. The little snowman one day is joined by a little girl wanting to play.   I love the kindness that is portrayed through the child in the story, and that the story teaches the lesson that everyone is special, and should have their chance to be heard.

"I know you can hear me.

I really believe it.

I think you are special,

I'll never forget

the day that we spent.

I hear your music even though you can't speak."

 The written story is beautiful in its words and illustrations.  The words are soft and flowing just like the snow.  The illustrations are pretty and could tell the story in themselves.  Accompanying this book is the story on CD, told by the author.  This is nice to listen to, with very pretty music in the background.  Mayfield is a great storyteller.  Come listen to some snippets of the book...pg 12  pg 22

Author, Marylee Joy Mayfield, has kindly stopped by to share with us a little background about the book.

Ideas for my childrens books come from many different places. Sometimes the ideas come from a poem or song that I love or memories that I have about my own childhood. Ive always loved snowmen ever since I was little and when my sisters and I were children we used to love the song The Littlest Snowman with the Red Candy Heart.



I was working late into the evenings during the winter and all of a sudden a question popped into my mind. What if a snowman wanted to sing but he didnt have a voice? It was that simple question that started the story of The Snowmans Song. The first draft just flowed out very quickly. I really felt that special inspiration that I think is a rare and somewhat miraculous event. It took me several weeks to refine the wording into the final poem in the book. In a way, the story took on a life of its own and when it was finished it had the essential elements that I think bring magic into Christmastimea special wish hoped for and longed for, kindness and encouragement from a stranger, faith, prayers and a heartfelt message filled with love.


The year I wrote The Snowmans Song I had been working with a local artist, Tracy La Rue Hohn and we both shared stories of why we loved snowmen. While I was working on redrafting the story, I kept thinking about the beautiful watercolor illustrations that I knew Tracy could create for the book. I was most honored when she accepted the project. We worked together for a year. We wanted to craft a memorythe type of story that families would read many times throughout the holidays.


When I was a child, my mother shared her own love of reading by reading stories to my sisters and me. It was a special time that inspired me to learn to read and discover the world through books. I think theres no greater joy for a child than to have a loving mother who enriches his or her life with stories. And theres no greater joy for a writer than to know that your stories are cherished and loved by others. I hope that The Snowmans Song will be shared by families every Christmas season.

For more information on "The Snowman's Song" or to purchase the book go to http://www.snowmanssong.com/#

For a chance to win a copy visit Kidz.

Storytime Sunday: Stop It by Sally O. Lee

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George loves to bully his sister, Anabel.  He loves to pick on her by stealing her stuff when she is playing dress up.  He finally pushes her to her limit one day while picking on her cat and she yells ......."Stop It!" They get along after that.  This was cute story.  Good for a child that might not sit too long while being read to, as it is pretty short. This would also be a great one for beginning reading, as there are no big words.  The illustrations are very cute, and in themselves tell the story very well.  I think little ones could tell the story to themselves just by looking through the illustrations.

( I personally just wish it was just that easy.....if only every child would actually "stop it" when told!)



You can find more books by Sally O. Lee at www.leepublishing.net

Stride Rite twitter party and facebook giveaways Sunday and Monday

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Stride Rite is celebrating Cyber Monday, this Monday the 30th,by holding a Fan Celebration Day on www.facebook.com/striderite. Stride Rite Facebook fans are invited to log on Monday, November 30th from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST for hourly giveaways with amazing prizes including gift cards and gift bags from Stride Rite Children?s Group brands including Saucony Kids, Sperry Top-Sider Kids, and more.  There will also be a fan-only coupon for Cyber Monday shopping on www.striderite.com and a mystery prize valued at over $600 that fans can enter to win throughout the day!

To kick-off the Cyber Monday celebration, Global Influence is hosting a Twitter Pre-Party Sunday, November 29th from 9 to 10 p.m. EST with our community manager, Shannan Powell (@slpowell) at the healm!  For an hour tweeps will chat about Cyber Monday shopping tips and preparing for the holidays in general using the #srCyberMon hashtag. There will be seven Stride Rite gift card winners and participants will be among the first to learn about the Fan Celebration Day on Facebook.  To learn more and RSVP, go to: http://tinyurl.com/yfjucsj

Need to clean your teeth and freshen your breath on-the-go...Get Colgate Wisp!

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How many times has your husband taken you out for a nice romantic dinner, then you are off for a night out and realize you have that "not so fresh" breath!

....ok so lets be more realistic.... 

You're a stay at home mom like me.  You hurry get the kids ready for school, you  throw on some clothes, pull your hair up, and run out to the car to get them to school.   Like normal, you are  running late.  You get to school and see someone you know who wants you to stop over for a chat.  On no, you had not taken the time to brush your teeth (figuring you can do it when you get home)...and have morning breath! 

I am sure you do not carry your toothbrush and toothpaste everywhere you go....but you can now carry Colgate Wisp!  Colgate Wisp is a single-use mini-toothbrush with a breath freshening bead to give you a clean, fresh mouth with no water or rinsing required!  With the 4 pack being small as a pack of gum, you can keep this right in your purse or storage box in your car.    Each brush is individually sealed in the package, so they are always ready for you to use.  Colgate Wisp has cleaning bristles which gently remove food and plaque from between teeth and along the gum line.  As you brush a liquid bead releases a burst of freshness in your mouth.  There is no need for water, or to rinse...just brush and go. 

Feel free to chat with your friend....  or for that night out with your husband!  This will definitely leave your breath nice and fresh and your teeth feeling clean.  Four of us tried these out at our house.  My twin stepdaughters first tried this.  The Colgate Wisp comes in three refreshing flavors, Cinnamint, Spearmint, and Peppermint.  Cortnie tried the Cinnamint.  We could immediately smell the cinnamon.  Her first reaction was MMM...then holy hot.  So I guess this one has the typical cinnamon flavoring.  Corie tried the Spearmint.  She said this tasted just like spearmint gum, but said it tasted like toothpaste if you swallowed it.  I tried the peppermint and thought it had a nice cooling fresh flavor.  It did taste like toothpaste, but it made your mouth moist, so I can definitely see why you do not need to rinse.  I really liked how much flavor it had and the little bristles were soft.  I also like the soft pick end to get the hard to reach areas.  Zach also had to try this out.  He loves toothbrushes and has a collection of 6 in the bathroom right now.  He loved these!  I think he actually did a better job brushing with the wisp than with a regular toothbrush.  Got kids?  I think these would be great to keep in their backpacks for school too or when they are on the go.  Maybe they had a sugary snack or want to freshen up after lunch.  The Colgate wisp is great for the whole family!

You can find Colgate Wisp at your local convenience store for the suggested retail of $2.39 for the 4pk or $7.99 for the 16pk.  You can also go to Colgatewisp.com and download a 50 cents off coupon.   



disclosure- I received the samples for free for review purposes.

Exit Music by Ian Rankin (giveaway)

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Giveaway is closed.

Congratulations to Randominities, BelindaM, ahsun, packerfantimmy, and Tiffany819!

About the book:
It's late in the fall in Edinburgh and late in the career of Detective Inspector John Rebus. As he is simply trying to tie up some loose ends before his retirement, a new case lands on his desk: a dissident Russian poet has been murdered in what looks like a mugging gone wrong.
Rebus discovers that an elite delegation of Russian businessmen is in town, looking to expand its interests. And as Rebus's investigation gains ground, someone brutally assaults a local gangster with whom he has a long history.
Has Rebus overstepped his bounds for the last time? Only a few days shy of the end to his long, controversial career, will Rebus even make it that far?

About the Author:
Ian Rankin is a #1 international bestselling author. Winner of an Edgar Award and the recipient of a Gold Dagger for fiction and the Chandler-Fulbright Award, he lives in Edinburgh, Scotland, with his wife and their two sons.

You can purchase the book from Amazon....or you can enter to win a copy.
Hatchette books is generously offering 5 books for giveaway.  To enter: follow my blog and tell me why you would like to win this title.

Extra entries:
~subscribe to my blog
~follow me on twitter
~tweet this giveaway
~add me to your blogroll

Please leave a valid email with one of your comments.  Please leave a seperate comment for each entry.  This giveaway is open to US and Canada residents and no PO boxes.  The giveaway will end on Dec. 13 and the winners will be chosen by random.org

Look who we spotted....

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The view is better up here

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Golden Moon Tea

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I love to drink tea.  I am not a huge fan of sweetened teas, but like more of the spiced flavors.  I can not wait to sample some teas from green moon tea.  They have some wonderful sounding flavors from oolong tea, green teas, black teas, white teas, and flavored teas.  You gotta check them out if you have a tea lover.  They have some nice gift sets...I might check them out for a friend who always has to have his earl gray tea.  I will be sampling some flavors soon and will let you know what I thought...but wanted to give the heads up of this company before the holidays.  They have a pretty holiday gift set.

18x24 poster print giveaway from Onlineposterprinting.com

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 Giveaway closed.

Congratulations Angela G.  (sometimes the number 13 is lucky)

Do you like to decorate with your photos?  How about doing this with a photo enlargement poster print from Onlineposterprinting.com. Make 18x24" Poster Prints from your digital photos.  I think these are great ideas, just like in the pic above for room decorations.  I myself would love to do one with my son playing a sport, for his sports theme bedroom.  How about getting a great shot this holiday, and making a poster for your holiday decorations? Want to check out reviews...you can do this at Yelp.

Giveaway prize: (1) 18x24 poster print for One Lucky Winner

Size: 18x24 Poster: Paper: High Gloss; Semi Gloss
Shipping: FREE UPS Ground Shipping in the US
Eligibility: Limited to US Residents due to shipping costs

To enter:  Leave a comment telling me what great photo you would like to use for this.

Extra entries:
~tweet this giveaway using @uprinting and @colleen_mouse
~blog about this giveaway
~follow my blog
~subscribe to my blog by email

Please leave a seperate comment for each entry and leave a valid email in one of those comments.  This giveaway will end on Dec. 6 and the winner will be chosen by random.org. 

disclosure- I will be receiving a free poster print from uprinting.com for hosting this giveaway.

Corel Digital Studio 2010

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 Giveaway closed.

Congratulations MaryAnn!

Your camera does both, why shouldn't your software? Corel Digital Studio brings photo editing and movie making software together, helping you get the hang of both quickly. Touch up photos with a single click, create movies in minutes, add your favorite music, then share your memories in fun and creative ways. With easy multimedia software, you'll be amazed at what you can create.


This new multimedia software gives you all the applications you need in one box. And they all work together.

Organize all your digital media in one place, effortlessly edit photos, burn music and turn your video clips into movies in just minutes. Got the latest technologies? Digital Studio also supports HD video and Windows® 7. The best part is sharing your memories with the people you care about—on popular websites like Facebook™, Flickr and YouTube™, on professional-quality CDs, DVDs or high-definition AVCHDs, and on your favorite mobile device, including iPod®, iPhone® and PSP®.
 

Whats included:

Corel® PaintShop Photo™ Express 2010

Photo editing and photo projects made easy

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Last week I tried out the Corel Paintshop Photo section that is included in the Digital Studio 2010.  There were some features I liked and some I had issues with(like most programs).  One feature I loved was how fast and easy it was to import your photos.  You can import photos from your computer, camera or memory card, phone, webcam, and scanner.  I used my computer to import and they were up in a flash!  I liked the create section, but found I have some software or even some things online have more options.  This is great though if you want some basic editting options with some extras.  They give you options to create photo books, cards, collages, calendars, slideshows or backup discs.  I checked out the photobooks, cards, collages, and calendars.  With all of these they have plain layouts or 6 different designs.  In all of these you can change the layouts to add one or multiple photos on a page, and some color options.  I personally would like more design options.  I also did not see a spot while making collages to add any text, just the photos.   This section also gives you print and share options.  I had just saved the projects, but the share options are email, Facebook, FlickR and Youtube.  Seeing I do not know how to print my own photobook at home I selected the order online, at first it told me this was not available in my area....So if you run across this, check for updates.  The next time I used the software there was an update for it, and it made the online store available.  You can order prints of your photos or your projects with a quick click of the mouse.  The smaller projects upload quickly, the photobooks take a few minutes.  The 8.5X11 linen cover photobook was priced at $28.99 plus tax and shipping.  I find this to be a pretty comparable price to sites that offer photobooks. 

(front of a card I created)

Corel® VideoStudio® Express 2010

Video editing and movie making made easy
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Today I was trying out the Corel VideoStudio section.  I liked that this came in the same software bundle.  In this section I tried out a few features.  The first I tried was the create a movie.  In these movies you again have 5 designs and plain layouts.  You can make a movie with photos or videos, but the videos have to be over 3 seconds long.  You can again import from the different options I stated above.  I already had my photos imported so I then imported the videos I had on my Vado camera.  These again imported very quickly which was great!  The only thing I had a hard time with is each video was just a black square until you click on them to watch them, then they show up with the snapshot of the clip.

The first video I made was using just photos.  You can add titles, background music and voice overs.  These are a nice way to share your photos, especially if you have many from one event.  I also made a movie by using a few different videos I had.  I first editted my videos and then arranged them the way I wanted them to show up.  I like this feature a lot.  I have many videos of different things and I had never known how to edit them before.  So this will be a feature I will use a lot.

You can trim and enhance your videos.  I love the trim section.  I was able to cut 7 seconds off one video...and divide another video in half and then cut out unwanted sections from those.  It saved a lot of unnecessary viewing time!  You can leave them like that or like me, make a movie.  I used 4 clips and made a movie from them. Here is the movie I made using edited videos.

Areas I had trouble with were sharing.  I was able to save as a file to my computer, but could not send through email or to Youtube.  Every time I tried to send to Youtube the program would be unresponsive and I would have to reopen it.  I tried this 5 times.  I was able to upload to Youtube by saving to my computer and then going to Youtube and uploading.  I did not try facebook or FlickR.

Corel® WinDVD® 2010
Superior DVD playback made easy

Bringing the theater experience to the PC, Corel® WinDVD® 2010 plays both DVDs and video files. Viewers can experience home movies or the latest Hollywood blockbuster with impressive sharpness, color, and audio. Corel WinDVD 2010 is optimized for video playback on laptops and can play video clips directly from cameras and camcorders.

I did not try out the WinDVD or DVD factory.  These are nice options.  The DVD factory would be great to make dvds out of those movies I just made or just to back up my photos or other programs. 

Corel® DVD Factory™ 2010
DVD burning and converting made easy

This application enables the creation of professional-quality DVDs from photos and videos. In addition, Corel® DVD Factory™ 2010 allows users to back up their digital media content easily to CD or DVD, protecting their precious memories. It also enables users to easily export digital content to mobile devices, record TV shows, and import photos and video clips from digital cameras, camcorders, set-top DVD recorders, and mobile phones.

Corel® Instant Viewer™:

This component provides a quick, direct way to view photos on a PC. Users can scroll through photos and send them to the Express Edit view in PaintShop Photo Express 2010 to perform easy touch-ups.

 Corel® Digital Studio Gadget™:

Located on Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP desktops, the Corel Digital Studio Gadget launches automatically on computer startup, enabling users to start any of the applications in Corel Digital Studio 2010.

System Requirements:

Intel® Core™ Duo T2400 1.83 GHz, AMD Athlon™ 64 X2 3800+ 2.0 GHz or higher recommended

Microsoft® Windows® 7, Windows Vista®, or Windows® XP, with latest service packs installed

1 GB of RAM (2 GB or higher recommended)

128 MB VGA VRAM or higher (256 MB recommended)

4 GB of free hard drive space

Minimum display resolution: 1024 x 768

Windows® compatible sound card

Windows® compatible DVD-ROM for installation

Recordable DVD drive required for creating DVDs

Internet connection required for online features

Online Printing services are available in select countries only and subject to additional charges.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Buy it online here....and right now they have black friday sales started already!

Download free trial by clicking here

Take a chance and win a copy!!!  That is right I have one boxed software program here to giveaway!  To enter:  Go to Corel and tell me another product you may like to try.

Extra entries:
~Follow my blog with google friend connect
~Subscribe to my blog
~Follow me on twitter and tweet this giveaway
~Blog about this giveaway

This giveaway will end on Dec. 13 and the winner will be chosen by random.org.  This giveaway is open to US residents only.  Please leave a valid email in one of your comments.  Please leave a seperate comment for each entry. 

disclosure~ I received the software for free in return for a review.

Global Influence Holiday Guide

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Holiday shopping season is here again and the Global Influence network has some great gift ideas for you, tried and tested by real moms. Click on the links to check out what our team of reviewers had to say about each of these gift ideas, and then take a moment to enter our fun giveaway and take a chance at winning some of these fabulous products. Featured Reviews Pouchees -
Busy moms need all the help they can get to stay organized and keep life as simple as possible. The Pouchee is the perfect solution to keeping all those little things together, putting everything you need, right at your fingertips.
Duck Hunter -
Duck Hunter turns the excitement of the hunt into an activity the whole family can enjoy. Launch the duck in the air and try to hunt it down with the toy shooter as it flies freely in the air. A fun choice for those who love outdoor sporting.
CardStore cards
-Personalized holiday cards are an important item on everyone's to-do list and often a hassle to create and print. Cardstore.com has everything from family photo cards to invitations for your big holiday party, simplifying your holiday season.


Great Holiday Gift Ideas Things Remembered Custom Couture Jewelry Just Elfin' Around Card Cubby Harumika By Bandai Harumika Runway Showstopper Harumika Style Starter Baby Alive Whoopsie Doo Strawberry Shortcake Playset Kota Monty Rex Wall to Wall Basketball Nerf Pocket Vortex Busy Ball Popper Talking Chuck Truck Leapfrog My Pal Scout Leapfrog Tag Jr Leapfrog Scribble and Write Animal Planet Polar Land Playset Animal Planet Dinosaur Playmat Onionhead Adult/Teen Feelings Pack OnionHead Children's Feelings Pack Onionhead A-Z Feelings Magnet Set FotoboxPlus MeTime Tees 

  Fun Holiday Giveaway! For this holiday guide, we want to share the love with the blogosphere! Some of our generous sponsors have donated prizes to be given away to lucky readers! To enter to win one of the following fabulous prizes, simply fill out the form here: http://tinyurl.com/y8t92rw  


Prizes include: Things Remembered Custom Couture Jewelry Pouchee Elfing Around Harumika Onionhead Feelings Pack Nerf Wall to Wall Basketball Baby Alive Whoopsie Doo MeTime T-shirt Entries will close on December 6, 2009 at 11:59 PM EST. Winners will be contacted by email after the close of the contest. 

  Global Influence Member Guides Need more ideas for this holiday season? Check out the guides that some of our Global Influence members have put together on their own sites! Thrifty Jinxy, Happy Healthy Hip , And Twins Make Five , Because Two People Fell In Love, Mommy Musings , Lipstick to Crayons , Bargain Briana , Mommy PR , Shop With Me Mama, Santa Picks, Rave and Review, Connected 2 Christ , 3 Boys and a Dog, The Classy Closet , Contest Corner, Lisa Reviews , A Giveaway Every Day, HulaHoopinMom, Spalibrations, High Impact Mom, From Cribs to Car Keys Lisa Reviews,
and Mommy Musings

All reviews listed in the Global Influence gift guide were product provided. Featured positions were purchased by sponsors. Member gift guides are not affiliated with Global Influence.

 I myself did the review for the kids Onionhead feelings pack....you can check this out here.

Silly Monkey Stories....bandaids cure everything!

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Zachs been playing with his new marble run toy....and accidently stepped on a piece and cracked it.  I told him we couldnt use it, as it was broke and to throw it away.  He went out to the kitchen, so I thought he was throwing it away...he came back with this.

What are your favorite holiday activities to do with your kids?

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Watch Dora's Christmas Carol Adventure Dec. 6 on NickelodeonFavorite Holiday Activities with Kids

To promote the upcoming show on Nickelodeon, Dora's Christmas Carol Adventure, twittermoms is having a contest...they want to know what your 5 favorite holiday activities are to do with your children. If you would like to share and take a chance to win $100 gift card and Dora Christmas Carol DVD then go to twittermoms and do a post.

Here are my favorites...

I love decorating the Christmas tree!!!  I love to put on Christmas music and enjoy a fun day of putting up lights and bulbs...I like letting the kids add their decorations they have made.  We sing and have fun...and Kennedy loves all the lights. 

We love to drive around and check out all the Christmas lights around town.  Our local park has a really nice set up and you can listen to the music they have playing...and you have to make sure you check out the lighthouse at the end, and you can see Rudolph with his glowing nose!

We love visiting Santa....I remember Kennedy's very first visit to Santa she was just a few months old...the picture was just adorable...she had her hands together like she was praying and was looking right up at Santa's face...like she was really telling him what she wished for.  One of Zach's is totally hillarious...He is looking back at Santa...like who the heck is this guy!  I love those memories! 

We love just spending time with those we care about....Unfortunatly we don't get to see as many of those as we wish....but they are always in our thoughts!

We love reading Christmas stories....you really have to check out the new book "A Snowman's Song"...it is one of our new favorites!

We love our new tradition...elfing around...and all the fun our elf brings!

We love watching Christmas specials on tv....Rudolph, Frosty, Grinch, Polar Express.....and we will definitely be checking out the Dora show on Nickelodeon on 12/6 @ 8PM EST

Olay Pro-X

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Imagine that your skin could perform more like it did when it was younger.  Olay Professional Pro-X has advanced technology that reveals younger surface cells faster and helps your skin's moisture barrier stay strong.  So skin doesn't just look younger, it acts younger. 


I recently was able to try the Pro-X wrinkle smoothing creme thanks to Vocal point.  I do not have real obvious wrinkles so it was difficult for me to tell if it actually helped with the wrinkles.  What I have noticed is that my skin has not been as dry as it was.  I tend to have to use a lot of facial lotion, but since starting to use the Pro-X I have not had to use this as often.  I love how it makes your skin nice and soft, and does not leave it oily.  I even had my husband ask me one day if I was wearing makeup, when I wasnt wearing any!  The pros:  Makes skin soft and healthy feeling
The cons:  The price...I believe this is over $40, which I found to be too pricey for my continuing use.

I do however have a $10 off coupon to share to one reader.  If you think you would like this be the first to leave a comment and I will mail you the coupon.

Sensodyne Iso-Active

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Did you know that 40% of tooth surface area is hidden between your teeth?  New Sensodyne Iso-Active foaming gel thoroughly cleans your mouth and relieves sensitivity, even in hard to reach areas.  Iso-active's gel to foam action is a result of the inclusion of isopentane.  Isopentane responds to increases in temperature caused by the warmth of the mouth.

I recently received a tube of the new Sensodyne Iso-Active toothpaste thanks to SheSpeaks.  I had seen the commercials and thought it looks pretty effective to help clean your teeth.  My teeth are really close together and tough to floss so I  thought the foaming action would help get in between the teeth more.  I have been trying it for a couple weeks now.  I definitly feel like my teeth are much cleaner using this.  The flavor is kind of strong though, so some might have a hard time getting over it.  Also I found I had to use just a tiny dab, otherwise it got too foamy in my mouth.  For the most part it helped with sensitivity issues to ...the only time I noticed anything was one night eating some frozen berries.

Along with my sample...I received some $1.00 off coupons.  I would like to offer one to the first person to leave a comment saying they would like this.

What is your Black Friday plan of attack?

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Twittermoms and Target want to know what your plan of attack is for Black Friday....well I myself hate going out for Black friday...so I only do it if I really see stuff in the ads that I want.  I also made the mistake last year to think I could get the deals online instead...well come to find out quite a few of the items were not available online.  So this year I will not try that again....that doesnt mean I wont check out cyber monday deals...but I wont rely on them this year.  Right now I am still waiting to see the local ads before deciding what my game plan is.  My first stop will most likely be who ever has the best deal for a blue ray player.  I have actually done most of my shopping already, as I prefer to spend a couple extra dollars and not wait an hour in line or fight the crowds.  So I might even wait until the door buster sales are over and maybe check out the stores later, as it gets quieter, but are still able to get some of the items at a good price.

If you want to share your plans...check out twittermoms...you could win $75 target gift card! 

So my biggest plan of attack....dont get attacked by insane shoppers trampelling people!!!

Mommy Madness Monday

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I cant believe we are getting so close to Christmas already.  I love it, yet we have had a mild fall so it seems odd that we really havent had any snow yet.  I think they are calling for some on Thanksgiving.  This will actually be a quiet week for us.  We do not do a lot for Thanksgiving...sometimes have a couple friends over and we cook the turkey and all, but that is about it for us.  I myself love the holidays, yet get a bit down seeing we live so far away from family.  It gets kind of lonely, especially when your husband never makes a big deal out of any holiday(well except july 4th).  So how many of you are all geared up for black Friday shopping?  Not me...I really dont care about going then...I would rather spend a few extra dollars. I might go out just to get us a blue ray player cause I think walmart is supposed to have them about half the price I have seen anywhere.  So I guess we will see when the real ads come out.  Otherwise I have done most of my shopping...just need to get a few more people something.  I am lucky as my kids really dont ask for stuff right now, so they are happy with a couple gifts!  I do need to get stocking stuffers as St. Nicks day is coming up quick...I will probably do that later today when I pick up some stuff I ordered.  So I hope everyone has a great week and a nice Thanksgiving! 

Here are the winners this week!

Kick, Block, Punch book- Sweeter the berry!

Bella Basset Ballerina- Cheryl!

FLOH club- mverno!

bella sara trading cards/velvety mini- panicxduh!

The Gate House- CandieL, Diane baum, Jake Lswhere, Nickolay, and Rhonda!

Storytime Sunday: "For Faithful Friends"

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This weeks story is a gentle loving story both written and illustrated by Marilyn E. Randall, "For Faithful Friends".  The story is about a fearful yet caring turtle.  He only has one friend because he is too scared to leave his home and join the others across the field.  His one little friend, mouse, tries to teach him that he can rely on others for help when we need it. He also points out that if our friends are not there, we can rely on faith. He tries to help him overcome his fears.  It isnt until one day that mouse is in trouble, that he is put to the test.  Will he overcome those fears? 

The text has a great poetic rhythm and is beautifully written.  It is longer, so would be better suited for elementary aged children, or those that sit longer while being read to.  It would be great for the adult reader to get dramatic, as a lot of the story is the conversation between the turtle and mouse.  It also would be great for a child that can read on their own. It is a great lesson for overcoming fears and helping others.  The illustrations are cute and show the turtles timid, fearful expressions.

You can find this and other stories by Marilyn E. Randall by going to her website http://www.marilynrandall.com/index.htm

Storytime Sunday, Holiday edition: "I'm Thankful Each Day"

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Celebrating Thanksgiving this week I wanted to share one of our favorite books, "I'm Thankful Each Day!" by P.K. Hallinan.  This wonderful book is not a holiday book, but an everyday book.  I think it is great to read this time of year, to remind us that we should be thankful each day...and we should show it, not only on

Thanksgiving but when ever we can.  Through the story the little boy tells us all the things he is thankful for,   the seasons, his family and friends, kindness and love.  This is great as it is told in a nice flowing rhyming style.  It is beautiful as well as the illustrations.  They are lively and fun and tell the story well.  So if you are looking for a great book, check it out.  You can find this and other stories by P.K. Hallinan by clicking here.

Fitness Friday

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So the past couple weeks I have been reading and incorporating ideas from "Eat Your Way to Happiness" (you can see my review here).  I have for the most part been doing really well with my eating, with a couple late night snack intrusions which I am sure I will pay for.  I know it was just boredom...I really need to stick with the healthy options and not overdoing it.  I feel so much better when I am being good.  For some reason I have slacked on the exercise dept this week too...I am not sure why either.  I know I was busy with some appointments Monday and Tuesday...but could have still worked out at night, and just didnt do it.  Then Wed. I had plans to go on a long walk while Kennedy was in school...but then she didnt go to school...then Thursday was going to do it later during my tv shows...which then time got past me...so there are all my excuses that I need to quit making!  I need to get back into exercising in the morning so I am not able to make excuses as the time goes by during the day.  So while I am saying that it is time to get off the computer...off my butt and get moving...See ya!

Looking for a Christmas gift for the women in your life...how about a new fragrance

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Inspired by entrepreneurial powerhouse Leslie Blodgett’s dynamic life, Leslie Blodgett Perfume Diaries is a limited edition fragrance collection, created exclusively for Sephora, that revisits and evokes pivotal moments in Leslie’s life. Having kept journals since she was a young girl, Leslie has captured the essence of every trip she has taken through the pages of her journals. With the release of its first fragrance Bare Skin on 10/08, these pages have been brought to life through scent, enabling Leslie’s ardent fans to walk a fragrant mile in her shoes.

Bare Skin, the first scent in the series, is reminiscent of an experience during a trip to Mexico, where Leslie cart-wheeled fancy-free down a sunny beach while emanating true, unbridled joy. “When I have an experience, I like to have a scent behind it. Bare Skin, which is what Mexico reminds me of, is the way you feel when the sun is beating down on you during the day, but then you go out at night and you’re still sizzling from the warmth of the day which mingles with the night air and the music.”

“Glowing, sun-kissed skin has the power to turn heads. I wanted to recreate that attractive force with notes that draw you in: creamy sensuality, caressing florals and uninhibited musk,” says Stephen Nilsen, the celebrated Givaudan perfumer who helped concoct Bare Skin. “With Bare Skin, you will find yourself basking in the sun, with your feet in the sand, after one spritz.”
 

 
Bare Skin Fragrances can be purchased at sephora.com and are offered as:
 
~Bare Skin Eau de Parfum 1.7oz ($55): With emotional undertones throughout, the scent takes you from day to night with top notes of Black Pepper, Freesia and Anise that evoke the morning breeze coming through the window and the anticipation of the day ahead. The heart notes of Iris, Vanilla Orchid, Plumeria and Patchouli conjure walking to the beach and being on hot, hot sand. While the dry down notes of Sandalwood, Labdanum and Musk tell of the soft, sexy chatter between couples and the music that surrounds. Leslie recommends spraying the fragrance on your pulse points and behind your neck – the heat from these areas will permeate the scent with every breath.
~Bare Skin Solid Perfume Compact ($35): This pocket watch captures a moment of time in Leslie’s life and interprets it into a heady scent. Dab on pulse points for the ultimate exhilaration.
~Bare Skin Perfumed Body Cream ($30): To perfectly compliment the fragrance, a luxurious body cream has been created. To extend the fragrance sensation, apply the hydrating body cream after showering and follow with a fragrance spritz near your heart.
 

After trying a complimentary sample I really like this perfume.  When I first smelled it, before putting it on, I thought it seemed kind of strong...I was completely wrong.  Its fragrance is so much nicer on your "bare skin".  It is a great strength, not too strong or light.  I can definitly be comfortable wearing this all day long.  Some perfumes have too much of a fragrance that they are more of an evening perfume...this one I can see wearing to work, for a day out, or an evening out or in with a loved one.  It has a great scent that is inviting.  I would love to try the body cream.  I think these would make wonderful gifts for the women this Christmas.  Its a new fragrance that could be a hot seller this season!

"Eat Your Way to Happiness" by Elizabeth Somer

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I believe I have found the best nutrition book!  I recently have been reading, and following, Eat Your Way to Happiness by Elizabeth Somer.  Elizabeth Somer, M.A., R.D., author of Eat Your Way to Happiness, is a registered dietitian and author of several books, including 10 Habits That Mess Up a Woman's Diet, Food & Mood and Age-Proof Your Body. She is a member of the editorial advisory board of Shape magazine and editor in chief of Nutrition Alert, a newsletter that summarizes the current research from more than 6,000 journals. She appears frequently on NBC's Today and other national television shows.

Eat Your Way to Happiness shares ten diet secrets to improve your mood, curb your cravings, and keep the pounds off.  It took me a couple weeks to fully read this book, as I was taking one chapter at a time and incorporating it into my daily life.  This has been a wonderful book.  All the information you have been searching for....ok you know you are probably like me and hear about a super food, and do a google search...well all the information I have searched for one piece at a time is right in this book, all together!  I love the layout of the book.  It takes you from when you first wake up to when you are sleeping at night.  Besides all the tips and information on nutrition, it also discusses exercise and gives you a meal plan with recipes. 


Somer discusses topics like eating real foods and the importance of eating a well balanced breakfast.  I myself focused a lot on incorporating these two chapters into my daily life.  I have felt better overall and feel like I am much healthier just by these two chapters.  It doesnt stop there though...like many people we crave carbs.  Her third chapter has great information on choosing quality carbs.  I love how she discusses the importance of carbs, and not eliminating them completely!  I have made some switches myself and noticed I really enjoy these, like whole wheat pasta and english muffins.  This has really helped and the whole wheat pasta really does fill you up more than regular pasta! 

Somer's next chapter discusses what she calls the 6% solution.  She really gives a lot of information on our sugar intake and makes you see how much sugar we consume and do not even realize it.  She focuses again on our sugar intake in chapter eight, where she discusses what we are drinking.  This is a great chapter to see just how many calories we are taking in by what we drink.  She has good options on choosing the right thirst quenchers.  I myself have already cut out most sugary drinks, but with the holidays coming up I like how she discusses alcohol.  I found this really useful.  I also like the discussions on thicker drinks, juices and other drinks not only in this chapter but through out the book.  She has some great recipes for these too.  So with the holidays coming up here is a great excerpt to think about...

Who Sails Your Vessel?

You have vowed either to not drink alcohol or sugary drinks or to drink in moderation. Sometimes that is easier said than done. Most people don't like to drink alone, so the social pressure to join the crowd can be stiff. Toasting the birthday boy or ringing in the New Year doesn't have to mean drinking alcohol at all and certainly doesn't require getting drunk. Just because everyone else orders a soft drink or a martini at the restaurant, doesn't mean you should do the same. But what do you do if the only beverage offered is soda or beer?

One habit worth practicing is planning ahead of time how you will handle these key situations when the pressure or temptation to drink the wrong stuff can overwhelm your best intentions to break this habit. That plan might include:

Serve nonalcoholic and sugar-free alternatives at parties and social events. Bring your own to someone else's party.

Pace your drinking. Plan to alternate one glass of wine or soda with a glass of water, or dilute a drink with lots of water, fruit juice or ice.

Think light. Do your waistline a big favor and switch from regular beer to nonalcoholic beer. You will cut calories in half. Check labels on light beers, since they vary in calorie content, so you will save lots -- or next to no -- calories, depending on the brand.

Nix the drinks made with high-calorie mixes. Make your one alcoholic drink a day a glass of wine and you'll save a hundred or more calories.

Dress up nonalcoholic drinks. Add zest to club soda, diet ginger ale or other drinks by serving them in fancy glasses garnished with straws and fruit wedges.

Think grapes, not wine. Make nonalcoholic drinks with purple or red grape juice to get some of the health-boosting compounds found in red wine. Look for concord grape juice that has not been diluted with white grape juice. Other foods that contain heart-healthy compounds found in red wine include berries, plums, currants, all deep red-blue fruits, apples, onions, oranges and grapefruit.

Eat well. Keep healthful snacks handy so you have something else to do with your hands and mouth besides gulp down another drink.

Drink water, not soda pop, to quench your thirst. The best rule of all.

Now I jumped over a few great chapters....Chapter five I really have tried to incorporate, Super Foods!  Somer gives a list of her "Dynamic Dozen" super foods that are waist slimming and boost your mood.  I have started incorporating a few of these in my diet and the next time I go shopping I plan on incorporating a few more.  I love how she discusses these and their benefits, then along with the next chapter discusses good fats.  This is an area I need to focus more on.  The information she has provided will really help and has helped me understand the effects of good fats on our body and mind.  As many of us know it isnt always easy getting all of these good things in our diets.  So in her seventh chapter she discusses supplements.  This is a great addition, and really discusses the importance of vitamins, phytonutrients, and other supplements. 


In Chapter nine she discusses ways we can indulge!  Want to get the low down on tea, wine and yes...all our favorites...chocolate, reading this chapter will help!  She discusses working with our cravings, not against them.   Want some  ideas for those cravings ...get the book and see the great ideas she has on "30 indulgences that will soothe any craving"...they sound so great, I will definitely be indulging in some of these!

Like I said in the beginning...I love the layout of this book....starting from first thing in the morning to bedtime.  Chapter ten focuses on eatting right at night.  She discusses how the things we eat can effect our sleep and in turn effect our mood and then effect our weight and memory.  She gives great information on great dinners that will not leave you feeling it when you go to bed!  It is a great chapter if you are having trouble sleeping, or feeling groggy when you wake.

So the first ten chapters are her 10 secrets to eating your way to happiness!  That is not the end though.  She then discusses the importance of exercise and its effects not just on our waist but also on our mood and memory.  Then if that was not enough she gives you a "14 day kick start diet for good mood" with great meal plans for breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack.  With these she gives some great recipes like "pumpkin pie oatmeal" which would be a great one to add some whole grains, good fats, and super foods.  One I might try soon..."Spicy Salmon Tacos"...as I need to get some of those good fats, high in omega 3, in my diet.

So overall...I am in love with this book!  Sorry friends I will not be sharing this as it will be staying with me for all the great ideas, information, and recipes!  If you would like to get one yourself you can go to
 http://eatyourwaytohappiness.com/ for more information on the book and how to purchase it


The above excerpt is from the book Eat Your Way to Happiness by Elizabeth Somer, M.A., R.D.. The above excerpt is a digitally scanned reproduction of text from print. Although this excerpt has been proofread, occasional errors may appear due to the scanning process. Please refer to the finished book for accuracy. 

Copyright © 2009 Elizabeth Somer, M.A., R.D., author of Eat Your Way to Happiness

Thank you FSB  Associates for providing this complimentary copy for me to review!  Although this book was free to me, I would purchase this anyday! 

Rolled Canvas giveaway from LargeFormatPosters.com

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Giveaway Closed.

Congratulations to the last entrant...ktgonyea!

Oh my next giveaway reminds me I need to make an appointment for my kids to get their portraits done.  Sharing portraits makes such a great Christmas gift for family and friends. In preparation for the Holiday season LargeFormatPosters.com is rolling out a great giveaway – 16x20 rolled Canvas. Rolled canvas prints are perfect for home decor, photo prints and signage.  I would love to have one of these hanging in my house.  I love using portraits for my home decor.  LargeFormatPosters.com has great large sized format printing options. As an affiliate of Uprinting.com, if you would like to see some reviews you can check them out on Yelp.  So what would you do with your rolled canvas if you won? 

Giveaway Prize: (1) Rolled Canvas for One Lucky Winner
Shipping: FREE UPS Ground Shipping in the US
Eligibility: Limited to US Residents

To enter: Tell me what you would do with the rolled canvas if you won.

Extra entries:
~follow my blog
~subscribe to my blog
~go to http://www.largeformatposters.com/ and tell me another item you would like to have.
~follow me on twitter and tweet this giveaway.


Instructions on how to claim the prize will be sent to the winner’s registered email on December 5, 2009...so be sure to leave your email address!  The giveaway will end on Nov. 29 and the winner will be chosen by random.org.  Please leave a seperate comment for each entry. 


~disclosure~I will also receive a free rolled canvas for hosting this giveaway.

Need help Going Green

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Top 3 Green Living Tips...Well mine are simple tips, as I need to learn more about going green.  The top things we do is 1. We buy energystar appliances ...We have bought some new appliances for our kitchen and wanted energy saving appliances. 2.  We buy the energy saving lightbulbs.  I think we have replaced almost all our lightbulbs with these flourescent energy saving lightbulbs.  3.  I try to use reusable shopping bags or use the paper/plastic shopping bags for other things after bringing home groceries.  So as you see...no huge creative tips...but would love to learn more.  ...Maybe the book "Smart Mama's Green Guide" that I have waiting to review will help give me some idea.   Get more tips from Beth Aldrich on going green.
You can even turn your eye wear greener, check out airwear at  LighterSaferGreener.com

Widget

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"What three favorite family Thanksgiving traditions have you passed or will pass on to your children?"

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This was what twittermoms and Target are asking....well we have a few around here.

1.  I love my moms stuffing....I have started making her simple stuffing every year now, seeing we typically can not be together for thanksgiving.  It is so yummy...I will definitly pass it on to my kiddos.  Zach is so funny right now as he has been watching Nick Jr. and Max and Ruby...and goes around the house saying "stuffing" cause Max eats so much stuffing he is stuffed.  Guess we will see if Zach will eat the stuffing this year.

2.  We always watch football.  We have a quiet thanksgiving, as the last few years it just been us and a couple of our friends.  We will eat dinner and then have dessert while watching football.  Even if we have had the big get togethers home, out east, then we still end up watching football...isnt that just part of thanksgiving?  I really miss the big get togethers with my family and God family on Thanksgiving ...even back then I can remember watching football.

3.  This is something I really want to pass on to my kids.  The last few years  I have been very thankful to have so many great therapists and teachers working with my children.  I now try to give them Thanksgiving gifts instead of Christmas.  I think it is more meaningful...and I really want my kids to show how thankful they are of everyone they care about/care about them.

and to go along with the thanksgiving theme...here is one little cutie you just want to gobble up!

Want a chance to win a $50 target card.......click here

Mommy Madness Monday

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A typical busy Monday here!  Kennedy had an ortho appointment to check her scoliosis.  She is doing good...the scoliosis has not progressed, so they have said not to worry about this.  She will go back in 6 months to recheck.  She then missed school...we were running late from the appointment and ran into a friend at the hospital.  Her friend Lydia is in the hospital from having a surgery...hopefully they are home now, as she was hoping to get home tonight or tomorrow.  Seeing we were running so late we stopped off and did a little Christmas shopping.  It felt good to get out with Kennedy...I dont take her shopping much anymore as it is hard to push the wheelchair and a cart.  Somehow last year I managed a busy day at toysRus with both kids.  Dont think I will try that this year.  I even remember taking Kennedy when she was a baby black friday shopping.  I took Zach shopping last night with me...we were buying a dvd player and stopped off at the candle section...oddly enough he enjoyed shopping for a new candle.  He was helping pick out a scent.  I dont have a lot going on this week...and I am hoping to keep it that way.  I have a lot of books to review...so I should relax and read some books.

I also have winners!!!  I just pulled the winners for the contests that ended last night...so here is the goods:

"Hope for Animals and their World" audio book- Jingle, roxxyroller, and FDP 4 Life!

"Say You're the One" audio book- Sweeter the berry, Shawn, and Candie L!

Uprinting custom thank you cards- Shelly!

RelishRelish- Gianna!

Sending emails very soon!  Congrats to the winners and thanks for all the entries!  There are other giveaways going on now and I will be adding more ...so keep entering! 

Storytime Sunday: Mommy Draw Stars on My Tummy

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Mommy Draw Stars on My Tummy

By Martine Groeneveld

About the book:

You will also learn some basic information in regards to nurturing touch for children.  The book consists of pictures with stories, songs, games, and rhymes that come with instructions/suggestions on using these with nurturing touch. Read more here

About the Author:

A native of Holland, Martine has over 12 years of experience in traditional and alternative health care, with five years teaching baby and child massage. She currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband and two daughters, where she runs her company My Mini Massage.  Read more here

My Review:
This is a delightful book to help you connect with your children.  This would be a great book to get you started with infant massage.  Not having an infant I actually used this book with my disabled daughter.  She loved it.  All the suggestions are great, and she gives you ideas to use with a little older or those not liking as much touch, as you might use with infants.  The songs and games are fun, and really put both mom and child in a good mood.  I highly recommend this book.  I think it would make a great gift for a new mom or baby.

disclosure~I received this book from the author for review.