Product Review: Positive Spin Press Books

My kids love books, so when ParentBloggers asked if I'd be interested in reviewing three books about Eve, a fairy, I was all for it.

Positive Spin Press , the husband and wife team of Lisa Sferlazza Johnson and Tucker Johnson, released three cheerful books about a fairy named Eve: Winter's Eve, All Hallows Eve, and Christmas Eve. They all follow Eve the fairy learning about traditions around the world and helping other people. The book's beautiful illustrations and bouncing prose provide a fun read-aloud experience.

All Hallows Eve is a fun change up on the Halloween tradition - it's Eve's birthday! Though Eve can make toys, she can't make candy. And Eve loves candy! Her friends bring her candy to celebrate - and they exchange toys for candy.

Winter's Eve provides an introduction of the many celebrations around the world. Eve learns that each tradition is filled with love, lights. My kids were interested in learning about the different celebrations that occurred throughout the world. My son was especially interested to learn that in India, Diwali is celebrated because of the return of a goddess - after being kidnapped by a demon.

Christmas Eve combines the religious and secular parts of Christmas. Both Santa and Jesus are referenced in the book. The focus is on giving, caring, and love - it's not the size of the toy, but the thought behind it.


There are also coloring pages to print on the website - and my kids can't get enough coloring pages!

Thanks to Parent Bloggers Network for the opportunity to review these great books from Positive Spin Press. They provide a gentle, caring message not only for this time of year, but all year through.

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Product Review: Meet the Sight Words

For some kids, reading comes naturally. For others, like my six year old boy, not so much. I was delighted to be offered the opportunity to try out Preschool Prep Company's dvd "Meet the Sight Words."

Sight words are words that don't follow basic decoding strategies: sounding out "mat" makes sense - m-a-t, but how do you sound out "you"? In "Meet the Sight Words 1" sixteen sight words are introduced by turning the word into an action. The word is repeated multiple times, and the word morphs into a more traditional black and white version.

Marketed for 15 months to six years, my six year old wasn't terribly interested. My four year old really got into it, asking to watch it again as soon as it was over. Later in the day, she found one of the sight words and asked me, "Is this the word play?" I couldn't have been more thrilled. As a parent, this can be rather tedious to watch, but the point of the video is to help kids learn otherwise potentially difficult words and it does that in a fun way for kids.

Another great product from ParentBloggers!

Product Review: Hanes and the "Comfort Fit Promise"

It's back to school time. After a summer of my kids living in their flip-flops, shorts, and varying degrees of grubby t-shirts, I'm cleaning out their closets. Yes, part of their 'vacation' at my parents' was to give me a crack at cleaning out their rooms.

One of the big things is going through the clothes that don't fit anymore. Jeans too short? Easy to spot. T-Shirts getting a little tight, that too. Underwear?

That is one sure sign your kids are growing - they need new underwear.

Fortunately, a few months back ParentBloggers asked if I'd be interested in receiving some Hanes products with their "Comfort Fit Promise" guarantee.

Free undies for the kids? You bet - and just in time. I was beginning to notice that my oldest's were a bit, um... low riding. And my son? By the end of the day there were marks around his hips.

I sent sizes for my oldest daughter and middle son. Like manna from heaven, Hanes sent a pack of boxers, briefs and crew socks for my son and a pack of bikini style, brief style and ankle style socks for my girl.

The only 'problem'? Nothing for my four year old. No worries, my oldest quickly surrendered the brief style panties to her. After all the care they took in getting the right size, it was easier to give up a pack than listen to the howling - over underwear.

I will say, they live up to the 'Comfort Fit Promise.' I haven't seen a tug at the rear or a gouge in a waistline since we've switched. The socks? Great as well - super soft and they've worn really, really well. One other thing I really like? The underwear is tagless - one less tag to keep tucked in.

There you have it, another great product! And even better? August 22nd, ParentBloggers will be having a blog-blast where you can win some Hanes wear for your own back-to-schoolers!

Product Review: My Fruit Roll-Ups

Fruit Roll-Ups. Remember those? I certainly do. Now, you can order them personalized with your own message and picture.

The most amazing thing about this product was the ease of ordering - you can start by picking your message or your picture first. There are four font styles, three font colors, and three font sized to choose from. There are pictures for nearly every occasion. It was a lot of fun to try and decide what to choose.

After ordering, my shipment was received in a week. I opened the box and the kids pounced.

They opened them.

They read them.

They were amazed to see their own names on them. "Cool!" and "Awesome!" - they were blown away.

Though not something I'd order for everyday - they make a great special occasion item. I'm already planning on ordering them for birthday treats for school. They'd even make a great gift for a lucky birthday boy or girl.

Swing on over to My Fruit Rollups. Leave a comment with what you'd choose, and I'll be giving away a box* on Wednesday. Randomly, of course - there is no right answer.

Thanks to The Parent Bloggers for another great product!

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*I'll email the lucky random winner a code that's good only in the United States.

Product Review - Maiden America

First off, this post is supposed to be a product review for Maiden America. And it will be...

Of my two daughers, my younger is the 'girly' one. She loves dresses and princesses and Dora, and all things 'sparkly.'

Since I decided to make the preschool teachers bags instead of quilts, I had some left over fabric.

And a pattern in the basement. Actually, I have a lot of patterns. I like them in theory, but when it comes to practice... Eh. Not so much.

Yestereday I put together an easy peasy two piece top and shorts...

The shorts are a little big because although the pattern calls for a 5/8" seam, I can't help but use the quilters 1/4". At least she can grow into them.

The back is a crisscross that I think is darling. The best of all this - it only took about an hour. It would have taken a bit less, but I messed up a couple seams and had to rip them out and start over.

Did you notice what is in her hair?

Barettes.

Not just any barettes, but the amazing no slip, hand made Maiden America barettes.

The pictures don't do them justice. The hardest decision we have to make is which to wear? Often it's the purple and the green. We also have a set of "pony pairs" that she frequents as well.

I love the barettes because they really do stay in.

When we first got them, I opened the box to show the Toddler. After oohing and aahing and squealing, she started to cry a bit. I asked her what was wrong... "Nothing, Mama, they're just so pretty!"

And pretty they are. For my other daughter, they're a bit 'girly,' but she occasionally will wear one to humor me. My younger daughter? Nearly every day she has one (or more!) in.

They're a bit pricier than traditional barettes. I've found them to be worth it though - buy it once and buy it right. There are multiple options in size and color - they're something for every little (and not so little) girl out there. It took me quite a while to settle on what I wanted.

Thanks to Parentbloggers for another great product!


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Product Review and Other Nonsense

First off, Parent Bloggers asked me if I'd be interested in a copy of Hip Hop Harry "Move Those Feet."

Knowing my kids and their love of dance (and gymnastics), I signed up.

Hip Hop Harry uses music, dance and rhyme to teach kids about language, social skills and problem solving. The DVD has three episodes: Fancy Footwork, I Like to Move!, and You Can Dance!

In the first episode, Fancy Footwork two sisters learn the importance of positive competition when they find themselves on opposing teams, and the importance of drinking water when exercising. I really like the lesson in this one - it's ok to try hard and want to win, and it's ok if the other team wins as well. The second episode, I Like to Move!, features a fitness expert to teach the kids fun new ways to exercise. In the final episode, You Can Dance!, Hip Hop Harry helps a girl with classical ballet training learn some hip hop moves.

All three of the episodes promote exercise and physical fitness as well as encouraging creativity and social skills.

My five and three year old loved it, and were eager to show off their dance moves as well. My three year old informed me after the show was over that she was thirsty and should have a drink of water.

You can win your own copy, by leaving a comment here. Now, get hoppin'!

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And on to the normal nonsense you've come to expect from me...

Thank you all for you wonderfully supportive comments yesterday. I hate to be such a turd-in-the-punchbowl, but for some reason it really bothered me more than I wanted it too.

Not so much that my friend got in and I didn't, but it made me feel like I wasn't good enough. And we all know how delightful that feels.

Part of that stems from the dozens of questions they asked with your sign up:

What shoes do you wear?

Have you run a marathon before and what was your time?

What is your projected time for this race?

Why are you running this race?

Well, they're not Nike shoes, nor will the ever be. We all know how my first marathon went. My projected time? Hopefully an hour better. Why? Why does anyone run a marathon. If you even have to ask... Maybe if I had an inspiring story of how I nearly lost my life to a giant squid or something...

Then I got the email:

"Team in Training, our partner through race beneficiary — the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, still has registrations reserved. If you would like to participate in the 2008 Nike Women’s Marathon through Team in Training, call 800.482.TEAM or check out the link below."

So what you're telling me is if I want to fund-raise for Team in Training, I can run.

Nice.

A very large part of me doesn't even want to post this. I don't want to rain on Tree's parade at all, and not just because she offered to bag the race and come run with me. That thought alone drove me to tears, again.

I am really, truly excited she's in and I can't wait to see her finisher's Tiffany Necklace. She's in it for the run, I was in it for the bling.

I also told her if she did that I would come down and kick her bony ass. Right after I catch her, which may take awhile as she is quick on her feet and I tend to mosey.

Live and learn, and next time sign up as a team. Everything happens for a reason. There's a reason I'm not supposed to be there.

Now I'm patiently waiting for Friday, April 18, 12:01 am when the registration opens for the first 10,000 crazies for the Twin Cities Marathon. The race is October 5th. Hey. I'll be done with my race, while Tree still has two more weeks!

Anyone want to join me?

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I did manage to finish one project yesterday. It took me significantly longer and a lot more material than I was planning, but it turned out pretty well. The only question it begs is...

Blonde?

Or Brunette?

Either way, the inside pocket is, well...

The money shot.

Oy. Is it hot in here?

Product Review: High Five

Remember Highlights? For the kids lucky enough, it was a monthly magazine? For me, it was the reading room staple at the doctor's office. I loved the magazine, and thought it terribly unfair if it was all marked up by someone before me.

I hate to say, but I'd kind of 'forgotten' about it, until I was given the chance to review "High Five" - Highlights for preschoolers - ages three to six.

Upon receiving three issues, I threw them to the wolves, I mean, my kids. Just to see what would happen.

Immediately, "What's this?" "Is this for us?" "Can I look at this?" "Will you read this to me" "Can we do this?" In rapid fire succession. Repeatedly.

And then we opened them up. My First Hidden Pictures, an easy recipe or two, simple craft ideas, multiple short stores, poems... All the things I remember from the original Highlights, but geared perfectly to the younger age set.

Granted, they were a little young for my eight year old, but perfect for her to read to her five year old brother and three year old sister.

Overall, this one gets two thumbs up. Now... Off to get my own subscription...


Also

ParentBloggers is also hosting a "Blast from the Past" Blog Blast. It's this Friday and five random participants will receive a year long subscription to either Highlights or High Five.

Review: Jump Start World

I'm up for about anything that will help my child learn. I was very excited to have the opportunity to give Jump Start World a go for my Kindergartener.

As soon as it arrived, The Boy was all over me to play. I begged off, telling him that Daddy needed to help him set it up. As soon as Dad walked through the door, The Boy was all over him, "Look! Look what I have! Look! Look! Look! Mom said you have to help me! Look!" It is reported that it's a bit of a 'process' to get it set up. I can not confirm that, as I was busy with dinner.

From the start, The Boy has been enamored with it. I'm not even sure he knows he's learning. He loves collecting the gems as a reward, and frequently wants to show me what he's doing. He takes serious consideration as to what character he's going to be for the day's adventure.

I like that I can check in on his progress. They set initial Kindergarten Progress Report up in three sections: Reading Arcade, Math Arcade, and My Cabin. The Reading Arcade includes objectives such as visual discrimination of shapes, shapes and colors, and directional shapes, rhymes, and upper and lower case letters. The short list on the Math Arcade includes: identify numbers one to ten, one to one correspondence, and count by ones to 15. My Cabin is a place where kids can lean to create and read a graph, use a calendar, and work on retelling a story.

The "Game" can even by customized with the child's birthday, holidays, uploaded photos and artwork. I hate to even call it a game - there is so much learning that goes on.

Overall, I think this is a great setup - fun, with plenty of learning. Jump Start World is available for Kindergarten, First, and Second grades. It can be purchased either as a starter CD with additional Adventure Packs available through subscription, or it can be purchased online. Still not sure? They have a free trial available.

As enamored as The Boy's been with this, I'm thinking Santa and I need to have a talk about something for his stocking...

More reviews on this, and other products, can be found at Parent Bloggers.

Review: The Daring Book for Girls and a bonus or two

Review: The Daring Book for Girls

Honestly, I haven't read much of this book.

Generally I find the sequels are just a shadow of the original. On first glance, I absolutely fell in love with "The Dangerous Book for Boys." When this came, I didn't quite know what to think of the light blue cover and sparkly lettering. I flipped through it... Not bad. Set it on the counter and went about my day.

As soon as my seven year old daughter arrived home from school, she spied the book. "Is that for me?" It sure is. She snatched it up and headed for her room. About every other day, she'd bring the book to show me or tell me something, then head back to read some more. I found the book this morning on her nightstand, where it's been every night since we've received it.

Occasionally while she's at school, I'd take a peek:
Hopscotch, Tetherball and Jump Rope,
Sleep Outs,
How to Paddle a Canoe (Grandma and Grandpa offered to help with this one),
Rules of Darts,
Words to Impress,
First Aid,
Knots and Stitches,
How to Tie a Sari (something I've always wanted to know)
Princesses of Today.

So why haven't I read more of this book? My daughter hates it when I read over her shoulder. She's given me plenty of things we need to try or learn more about. So overall, I think this sequel has lived up to the expectation.

Adventure is worthwhile in itself.

Read more about it at Parent Bloggers.

Not quite Rachael Ray... But close.

The other night I made noodles to go with the chicken. Start to finish, 35 minutes - including rolling out the noodles. Had the kids not helped, it would have been a "30 Minute Meal."

A quick rundown:
Mix noodles, let rest. Spray pot with a little cooking spray, and put on medium heat. Chop carrot, celery, and onion. Add to pan. Cook three or four minutes until they start to soften. Scrape fat from broth, add broth to pot. Add water and chicken base*. Bring to a boil. As that's coming to a boil, roll out the noodles. Add chicken to pot, and noodles slowly to boiling water. Cook noodles about 4 - 5 minutes. Serve.

I wanted to get a picture of the kids helping roll out the noodles... But something about three kids, flour, and a roller they could pinch fingers in wasn't condusive to photography.


There are all sorts of fancy-pants wooden racks out there. This works for me.

*Chicken base can be found with the bouillon. I find it to have better flavor, and be less salty.

And on a more personal note...

Love of mine
Someday you will die
But I'll be close behind
I'll follow you into the dark
No blinding lights or tunnels to gates of white
Just our hands clasped so tight
Waiting for the hint of the spark

If heaven and hell decide that they both are satisfied
Illuminate the no's on their vacancy signs
If there's no one beside you when your soul embarks
Then I'll follow you into the dark .

Happy Anniversary, Love. Eleven down - a lifetime to go.


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Product Review and Halloween Roundup

Product Review: "Kids Are Americans Too"

Awhile back, I was given the opportunity to review, "Kids Are Americans Too" by none other than Bill O'Reilly (and Charles Flowers).

For the most part, I don't pay much attention to "News" TV - Mr. O'Reilly included. Why? Like so many bad cartoon characters, his voice grates on my nerves. From what I can surmise, though, we have slightly different political leanings.

I will say that this book brings up several interesting questions, and encourages discussion between kids and their parents. By kids I mean the pre-teen and teen variety. This is not somthing I'd give my seven year old. Like anything you read, it should be taken with a grain of salt.

Will I give this to my kids to read? If they're interested.

Will I foster discussion about what they're reading in the book? Absolutely.

Will I help them find other materials with a different political leaning? You betcha.

Find more reviews on this and other products at Parent Bloggers!

Now, on to something else...

Halloween!

A Pirate, Darth Vadar, and ...

Sleeping Super Girl.

Super Girl headed out with the rest of the kids, but after the Candy Dump, was ready to just relax in front of some cartoons. Poor thing lasted about three minutes before she fell asleep.

What's for Dinner Wednesday... a day late...

Seeing as yesterday was Halloween! and we had several important things to do, the kids had PB&J's for dinner. Today I would like to share one of my favorite ways to cook a whole chicken.

Now, before you say, I can buy that at the store "fresh" off the rotesserie - let me tell you, you can do better. And it's really easy.

First off - Crock Pot.

With a 'larger' oval one, you can do two chickens.

With the 'smaller' upright one, one chicken.

Secondly - seasoning. After rinsing the bird and patting dry, I season it with a Chicken/Poultry rub on the inside and out.

Foil. Make a couple loose foil balls and place them in the bottom of the Crock Pot. Put the bird breast up in the Crock Pot on top of the foil. The foil holds the bird up and allows the drippings to collect in the bottom. By doing this, the skin will get nice and crispy while the meat stays tender.

Cook it on low for eight hours, or high for four. Please don't open the lid and check on it too often. Just keep it covered and let the Crock Pot do it's job

This is one of my favorite ways to do chicken - mainly because it's easy! Nothing better to the smell of dinner almost done when you walk in the door.

Finally...

November 1st is the first day of NaBloPoMo or "Blog Every Day the Month of November". Give me a shout out if you're participating or add me as a friend - I'd love to hear from you!

Today, as everyday, I'm thankful for my family.

Product Review: Sequoia Survival Kit

For the most part, I like to think I'm pretty prepared - especially when traveling. In the back of my car I keep a tote. In this tote I keep: a complete change of clothes for each of the kids in a labeled zip-top bag, a first aid kit, a couple large garbage bags, an umbrella, a package of baby wipes, and a jacket for each kid. In the winter I include a hat and mittens for everyone, a couple extra pair of socks and a blanket thrown on top.Yes, I know. Go ahead. Laugh. For the longest time, my husband - I hesitate to say - made fun of me.

Until one of the kids had a 'blowout' (you know, where the diaper doesn't hold...) and I went to my emergency stash. I whipped out a fresh outfit and threw the dirty one in the now empty zip-top bag. Now about twice a year, I check the clothes to make sure they're seasonally appropriate and they still fit. I've also thrown in and adult t-shirt - because generally when a kid has an accident, someone's holding them.

As someone who likes to be prepared, I was really excited to have the opportunity to take a look at the one of the Sequoia Survival Kits.

Upon receiving the Vehicle Survival Kit, I was struck by the compact size. I was amazed when I took everything out: Water, emergency thermal blankets, first aid kit, ponchos, a light stick, emergency food ration, work gloves, duct tape (because you know if duct tape won't fix it...), toilet paper...

Not only did they have necessities like water and food, they included a deck of playing cards and paper and pen.

Also included are two types of 'multi-tools': - the traditional Gerber clutch with pliers, knife, screwdriver, and such, and the hand crank radio, flashlight, and cell phone charger complete with several adapters so you can charge your cell phone.

Overall, I think this is a wonderful idea. They've thought of several thinks I wouldn't have (work gloves!) and put them in a compact bag that now sits in the back of my vehicle. My only issue - after taking everything out of the bag, it was like putting a puzzle back together to get it to all fit. I got it in - and zipped shut. Hopefully, I won't need to use any of it.

Check out more reviews at Parent Bloggers.

Product Review: Deceptively Delicious

I love cookbooks.

Given the opportunity, I'll read them like regular people would read a book or magazine. One year for Christmas, my parents scoured antique stores and gave me a box of old, old, old cookbooks. So I was excited to review Jessica Seinfeld's cookbook Deceptively Delicious. Yes, Mrs. Jerry Seinfeld wrote a cookbook.

Upon receiving the cookbook, I was struck by the durable, easy to clean cover. It's spiral bound and the pagers are nice and thick. Publishers take note: there is nothing better than being able to lay a cookbook flat and have it stay open. The pictures are beautiful and I love the pencil drawings of each of the family members.

Jessica created this cookbook to end the mealtime struggle of "eat your veggies." By making and adding purees to recipes, she's happy in providing a "respectable portion of veggies" (1) to her kids meal without the fuss. I guess I'm lucky in that my kids are very good eaters - veggies included - but I was willing to try something new.

The book contains an excellent resource from Joy Bauer on kids and nutrition as well as a breakdown of nutritional guidelines for children.

I tried several of the recipes with varying degrees of sucess. Two of them in particular were resounding successes: Chicken Nuggets (broccoli) and Italian Meatloaf (carrot). When I cooked the Chicken Nuggets I baked them rather than cooking them on the stovetop in a small amount of oil. For the Italian Meatloaf, next time I'll cut the celery even smaller, as my 7 year old balked a little bit at the sight of green in meatloaf. Of the recipes I tried, these two came out the best.

Several of the recipes were moderate successes: "Buttered" Noodles (squash), Mozzarella Sticks (cauliflower), Pancakes (sweet potatoes), and Sloppy Joes (sweet potato and butternut squash). In each of these, at least one of my kids asked me accusingly "What's in this?" Thought they did generally eat it.

And two recipes didn't tempt the palate: Scrambled Eggs (cauliflower) and Tofu Nuggets (broccoli). I knew the Tofu would be a long shot - dipped in egg and spinach or broccoli puree then rolled in a mixture of breadcrumbs, flaxseed meal, Parmesan cheese, and paprika. All three kids ate one small bite of one small nugget. Which leaves us with the Scrambled Eggs. Normally my kids devour scrambled eggs. Not these. The texture was a bit off, as was the taste.

The one thing I didn't like is I don't think they made enough mention of still serving vegetables with dinner. There is one reference on page 32, but that's all I found. Also, my husband and I found some of the recipes a little bland, but that can easily be fixed.

Thought it can be a bit overwhelming to look at having to make a bunch of purees, after making homemade baby food for three kids it really wasn't that big of a deal. I took about an hour and a half to have enough purees for probably three weeks. They're stashed safely in the freezer, just waiting for my next cooking flurry.

Overall, I think this book has a lot of great ideas for incorporating more nutrition in everyday meals. It's a fun cookbook that got me excited about trying new recipes, and I haven't even gotten to the desserts yet!

(1) Deceptively Delicious, page 10.

Product Review: Ryka.

The thing I love about doing reviews for PBN is you never know what you're going to get. Most recently, they've connected with Ryka and some of us lucky testers were able to try a new pair of walking or running shoes.

After the marathon, and since I'm training for another, I jumped at the chance for new shoes. Jumped I tell you.

First off, let me say that I always giggle a little bit when people tell me they have a "hard time" finding shoes. Hmmm. Too wide, too narrow, too boxy, not enough support, too much support... But at least they have them in your size.

I was thrilled to find out that Ryka offers shoes up to a 12. And guess what I wear. A 12.

They arrived a short while later, and I immediately tore into the box and tried them on.

I should have known better, given my other running shoes are a 13.

They were perfect, until it came to the toe box. Too small.

Not much, but given that in High School I lost two toenails due to too small shoes, I'm overly cautious.

I contacted the Ryka rep, and she was very apologetic and offered to send me apparel instead. Was this my lucky day?

A short while later, the Free to Move LS top arrived in the mail.

I love it.

I try to keep all my running gear in one dresser drawer. The things I love stay on the top - kind of like my kids, I tend to wear my favorites as often as possible. Every so often, I sort through it and pull some of the things from the bottom back up to the top. Halfway through my next run, I remember why it's on the bottom - too big, too small, too bunchy, too whatever. Then I wash it and it finds it's way back to the bottom of the drawer. This shirt will stay on the top.

This top will be a staple as winter approaches. I tried it on, and loved the fit -it's plenty long through the sleeves and waist. It moved with me and kept me at the 'right' temperature through my runs. For my long Saturday runs, I generally leave around 7 am (plenty chilly) and arrive home 10 ish (getting warmer). It kept me warm during the chilly parts, and cool during the warm parts. Most of all, it's flattering.

If you're looking for some new togs, Ryka is giving away 50 pair of shoes and 50 performace tees every day from September 5 through October 25th. Check it out!

Five things + Product Review

1. I'm really excited about my trip to Detroit. Not only that, but I'll get to see MotherGooseMouse! It's been four years since I've seen her last. Entirely too long.

2. Denver's half-marathon is fast approaching. This weekend is a 15 mile run, and my huband will be leaving Saturday morning. That leaves me with the option of hiring a sitter for three-ish house on Saturday or Sunday, or getting up reeeeeaaaaaly early Saturday morning. I still need to figure out my lodging arrangements.

3. Lotta is up to something. Go check it out.

4. I swear, today I'm going to clean out my rat's nest of a dining room.

Just by looking, I can count six projects that need to be finished. Mitzi, send me the damned measurements so I can finish two of them. Not like you don't have anything else going on.

5. We are now the proud owners of our first Webkinz. Big Girl had a traumatic doctor's visit yesterday, and between the teeth chattering and crying, I promised her one. They are pretty neat, I'll give them that.

On to the review. I was given the chance to check out Zula Patrol. It's a new show on PBS aimed at incorporating science and astronomy in a fun to watch kids' show. My kids loved it and asked to watch it over and over. The story lines did incorporate plenty of science - one show was about the three types of rocks and the other about volcanos. The graphics are amazing and the music is really fun. The website is set up so teachers and parents can download information to go along with the episodes. My only issue is that after awhile, the character's voices grated on my nerves, but not my kids. Maybe that's what happens when they watch it three times in one day. Overall, I give this two thumbs up - my kids liked it and they learned something. Check out other reviews for this product at PBN.

Product Review: Printakid

You know the saying "Everyone's favorite topic is themself"?

It's true.

A great option for kids is Printakid's personalized books for children. They have six different stories available in two reading levels: preschool (3-6 years) and elementary (7-10 years). They also offer audio CD's.

We chose "The Robots of Sedna" for The Boy. I entered his name and chose the correct reading level. I then picked his hair color, length and texture; his eye color and shape; and skin tone. I was blown away by the number of choices: five skin tones, five eye colors, and six hair colors. They also offer hair long or short, and straight, wavy, or curly. There are two parent (or guardian) slots that give plenty of relationship options beyond Mom or Dad, and three friends can also be entered.

In the end, we came up with a wonderful book that combines all of The Boy's favorite people: Mom, Dad, and his sisters. He loves hearing all our names read aloud and hearing about the "brown-haired, brown-eye boy named ...". The Boy is the hero of the story that gets to "save the galaxy". He loves reading it and having it read to him, to the extent that I didn't even have to get the book to write up this review - we've read it that many times. That alone is priceless.

I went to get a picture of him reading last night, but was too late:


Sweet dreams little man, have fun saving the galaxy.

Product Review: School Zone

Summer is an amazing time to spend with your kids. The weather here is beautiful and there are plenty of things to do.

There comes a time, though, when it seems you've done it all. Seen it all. A "million" times.

It's the end of summer. Usually for us it strikes around three weeks before schools starts. You see other mothers at the store, throw them a knowing glance as one of the kids acts out, and you mouth to her, "It's time for school to start." She nods and smiles. You go on your way, just hoping to get through the day so you can do it all again tomorrow: the kids fighting, arguing, nit-picking, nagging - oh the nagging - I could write a whole article on the End of Summer Nagging.

Then one day, mid-August, the doorbell rang. All I could think was, "What are they selling." No, I don't need a new roof. No, I don't need new siding. No, I'm not interested in completing a survey. No. No. No.

Instead, it was the mailman. With a box from School Zone. For me - um, I mean for the kids.

We tore into the box.

3D Magnetic Teacher - Kindergarten.

Start to Read - Level 1.

Like manna from heaven, the kids took to it immediately.

The 3D Magnetic Teacher is a tin with oodles of activity cards and magnets. There's a place for every magnet, so you'll know if any are missing. The cards are designed with multiple activites on each, allowing you to both adjust the card to your child's ability and grow with your child. And there are magnets! Almost as good as scotch tape. Or Post-its. Or tissues.

The Start to Read kit is chock full of early reader adventures: two storybooks, two audio cds, two journal books, 32 comprehension pages, three stencil sheets, two sticker shees, as well as a pencil, dry-erase marker, and eraser. The audio cds contain a read-a-long of the stories and sing alongs. There are also companion sing-a-long songbooks. It's all packaged in a well constructed "book" - one that will stand up to the rigors of kid-use.

We were given the Kindergarten/Level 1 option, and while it was "young" for my seven year old (I knew it would be), my five and three year old love it. I love that it keeps them busy - and it educates them. The magnet tin is a perfect size to take out-and-about.

As for the cds, it's only a matter of time before the conclusion is drawn that we could listen to them in The Car! I take that back, one time, my seven year old mentioned that maybe they (the younger two) would like to listen to them in The Car! but I said "not right now."

There are several things I love about these products:

• They grow with your child and are made for a range of ability within an age group. My three year old loves to make matches with the magnetic letters. My five year old enjoys doing the activity pages. My seven year old, well, she likes to 'help' the other two.


• Though rewarding and fulfilling to work with my child on these, I don't have to. There's room for them to work alone as well.


• The Start to Read set of books is on a spiral -it can be laid nearly flat, and the kids can easily flip the pockets/pages to get to what they want.


• The pockets holding the books/cds are very heavy duty and will put up with alot of use.


• Talk about bang for your buck - the Magnetic tin retails for $15.99 and the Start to Read kit retails for $17.99 - think of all the other ways you've blown $20. And this is less.

School Zone offers products from Baby to Sixth Grade. Not only good for your child, they'd make a great gift. Two thumbs up.

Review: "The Little Black Book Of Style"

An open letter to Nina Garcia, author of "The Little Black Book of Style."


Dear Nina,

First off - is it ok if I call you Nina? After reading your book I already feel like we're friends. Thing is, when I first received your book, I wasn't quite sure what to make of it. It's fairly slight, but upon opening it up, I was immediately struck by the art work. Then I started reading, and could barely bring myself to stop.

Your book inspired me. It inspired me to clean out fifty three pounds of clothes from my closet. Yes, fifty three. My overstuffed closet is no longer overstuffed; left in my closet are things that fit and flatter. I was finally able to rid my closet of wool blazers that I hadn't worn since I worked (three years ago), shirts that just don't button right, clothes that are too small-big-narrow-wide-short-bunchy, and suits that I haven't worn in four years and probably won't wear again. Let me put it this way, in one of my blazer pockets, I found a binky. Keep in mind that my only child to take a binky gave it up at a year - he's five now.

The thing is, I'm tired of schlepping around. Tired of throwing on the first thing and making due with the same four pair of capris, three pair of shorts, and dozen shirts. Tired of looking worn down and just plain old. I know a lot of this has to do with what I wear.

Which leads me to your book. The thing I really love about it is that it doesn't tell you necessarily what to wear, but how to wear it. By breaking fashion down into six easy to digest chapters, you've made it easy for the rest of us. Easy to look at our closet, what we already have, in a whole new light.

And you know what I discoved when I cleaned out my closet? I have plenty of great clothes, they were just hidden by the excess. Of course, a girl can always use another pair of shoes.

My favorite passage comes from page 142:

"...You will find that style comes from adoring yourself enough to dress up for you and you alone. Because, in the end you are the only judge that really matters.

Style is a matter of finding out who you are and who you want to be in the world. I hope you chose to be fabulous, daring, fun, inspired, and yourself."

That really says it all!


My eternal thanks,

Gretchen

Product Review: KINeSYS

We've tried the traditional lotions - goopy and sometimes rather smelly; the spray lotions - a bit better but I never could get the hang of trying to spray a lotion; and the aerosol sunscreens - fast, easy, and expensive.

They each have their positives and negatives, so when asked to review the KINeSYS family of sunscreens, I was really excited.

My first sample was a one ounce "Funscreen" for kids. The once ounce size was perfect to throw in my purse, and the 30+ SPF with broad spectrum UVA/UVB properties would keep the kids from getting crispy.

The kids took to it immediately. For one thing, it only took a short time to cover three kids. Spray and go. No rubbing means to crabbing and fussing - from me or the kids. It dries quickly, and doesn't leave a greasy feel. They've taken out both the oil and the alcohol, allowing skin to breath normally.

A short time later, I received a 4 oz "Performance Sunscreen," a one ounce kid's cream, and a solid "Sunscreen Stick." Good thing too, because I was nearly out of the Funscreen.

The Performance Sunscreen is wonderful. It has the same skin saving properties as the kid's sunscreen, but with a pleasing mango scent. It's made to stand up to the demands of a performance athlete, but will also work for chasing your kids around the park. The four ounce size is nice - not too big, but it will last a long time. The kid's cream works great as well - if we have time I like to apply it first, then use the spray later after the kids have been in the water or it's been over two hours.

My absolute favorite has to be the Sunscreen Stick.

I don't know about your kids, but mine hate having it put on his or her face. Hate. It. With this I can just glide it on, especially on the hard to protect areas like noses, ears, and the top of the head part-line.

KINeSYS offers both full and travel sized products - in either SPF 30+ or 15. They've also bundled products to save you money, and offer free shipping on orders over $45.

As soon as mine runs out, I'll be ordering more.

Interesting, very interesting...

Yesterday, my husband and I did the switch.

You know what I'm talking about - "Why don't you stay home for the day and I'll go to work?"

It was much nicer than that. Really.

Awhile back I posted a review on the Saturn Vue. Apparently the nice folks at GM liked what I had to say and how I said it. I was contacted by them to fly out to their headquarters in Detroit for a panel discussion regarding social media and 'reaching out to bloggers.'

Me? They want me?

The gal setting it up said that they could make it an out-and-back, but as a mother herself if I wanted to spend the night they could arrange that as well. I decided that an out-and-back would be fine.

There was major brain power there as well. Neville Hobson, Sam Abuelsamid (he also writes for autobloggreen.com) and Alma Dayawon from Randy's Journal (aka - Boeing). So that puts and internationally recognized expert, leading automotive industry blogger, and a large corporate blog on the panel.

And me. The "well-read 'mommy blogger.'"

I know in business, especially larger ones, it can be difficult to embrace new ideas and technologies. This panel was set up to open up some of the employees to the idea of using blogs, and bloggers, as they become increasingly influential in today's marketplace.

I'd like to think that I got my point across. For me, the blog is not only a creative outlet, but one more way to get information. There are people writing that I trust, and if they suggest a new product I'll be more likely to take a look at. That women today don't have time to have a cup of coffee while discussing things over a table of Tupperware. That blogs are one more method of 'word of mouth' advertising.

Besides the slight snafu on travel times, it was a very enjoyable and enlightening experience.

Next time... I'll stay the night.

Review: Even June Cleaver Would Forget the Juice Box

I have gotten to review some really awesome products for ParentBloggers. Recently, I signed up to review "Even Junce Cleaver Would Forget the Juice Box: Cut Yourself Some Slack (and Still Raise Great Kids) in the Age of Extreme Parenting." How's that for a title?

The thing I like about this book is it told me what I already know: I'm doing just fine.

Though I do feel this book has a worthwhile message, for the most part I didn't 'click' with this book. I understand what author Ann Dunnewold is trying to get at: we're too hard on ourselves. Our minds go on autopilot and it's difficult to shut off the diatribes in our head about what a "horrible" mom we are. We find ourselves caught up in the never ending cycle of "I could do more." Parenting in today's world can be a pressure cooker.

The book is broken down into three sections: The Problem, The Solution, and Sharing the Solution. Perhaps my favorite part of Sharing the Solution is the list of 'like-minded' websites to visit.

As for doing my part on Sharing the Solution, leave me a comment if you want this book. I'll do a random drawing and announce the winner on Friday.