This week for my Thrifty Thursday post, I'm sharing a reminder that with Canada Day and the Fourth Of July here in just a few days, now is the time to stock up on summer BBQ and cook out essentials. You'll find some of the best deals of the year on items like mustard, ketchup, and BBQ sauce, as well as on meats, and items like paper plates and napkins. Check the expiration dates on items that you use all throughout the year, and stock up accordingly. For instance, we go through about a container of salad dressing each month around here. I found bottles of Wishbone on sale that don't expire until next June on the shelf, so I picked up 10 of them. Now I am set for awhile when I don't want to make homemade dressing!
If you're looking for backyard furniture and other items to decorate your yard not only for the holiday weekend but for Summer, I've noticed Target and several other places have already dropped their outdoor furniture, solar lights, and gardening items down to 30% or more.
30 June 2011
Printable Starbucks Ice Cream Coupons
Here's a printable coupon for any Starbucks Ice Cream found in your local grocery's freezer - it will save you $0.75. You'll have to fill out some information in order to print it.
While you are here, don't forget to check out my other printable coupons to see if there are other coupons available to help you save on your grocery bill!
Please note: I take the time out of my busy schedule to share coupons that have landed in my email, I am not affiliated with the companies. Some coupons may be only available for a limited amount of time or for a limited amount of prints. If you come across a coupon that is now dead, please let me know, either by leaving a comment or sending me an email so I can fix the post. Thanks!
While you are here, don't forget to check out my other printable coupons to see if there are other coupons available to help you save on your grocery bill!
Please note: I take the time out of my busy schedule to share coupons that have landed in my email, I am not affiliated with the companies. Some coupons may be only available for a limited amount of time or for a limited amount of prints. If you come across a coupon that is now dead, please let me know, either by leaving a comment or sending me an email so I can fix the post. Thanks!
Review: Sand Gone
Summer here and that means playing in the sandbox and trips to the beach for many of us. With that comes sand that GETS EVERYWHERE. It's fun to walk on and play in, but it seems impossible to get off your toes and hands without getting it everywhere, doesn't it?
Sand Gone is a Mom-created dry body powder that when applied to sandy parts of your body removes the sand leaving your skin soft and smooth. No water is necessary to remove the sand! It helps cut down on the amount of sand tracked into your car and home (and then ultimately down your drains as you might know!) It comes with a huge powder puff to easily apply it to squirming kids:
As you might be able to see, it's a soft white powder. It smells SO yummy - like coconut! (You may be tempted to eat it, it actually smells that good! LOL) It's made from plant and vegetable starches, along with the fragrances. The container itself isn't overly huge, so it should fit into most beach bags and backpacks without hogging a lot of room.
Now I was hoping to add in a pretty picture of toes hanging out on the beach, but every time we head to the waterfront the last couple of weeks, it's been too cold to dip our toes in the water! In all fairness, we don't have tons of sand on our beaches out here in Washington either, but tons of fine rocks and dirt that drive us crazy, so maybe the picture wouldn't have been too pretty. ;) I did receive a fun sample bag of sand though to try it out with, and it was easy to dust on and get that fine sand off my hand. Just puff, and rub the sand off (preferably still on the beach, and not in your house! lol) I know I am gushing about the scent, but it's really a nice touch - it just adds to the summeriness (yes, I know that's not a word!) of the product.
I heard a rumor that after over 260 days since we saw 80 degrees here, that it just might crack the magic mark late next week, so I'll be sure to pack this along. (There is no way I am missing the beach if it gets that warm!)
Sand Gone comes in an 8 ounce family size container and retails for $12.95 plus shipping. You can order it via their website. They also have a little beach bag that you can purchase that comes with the 8 ounce size, plus a 2 ounce size, plus their Almond Coconut Soap too.
Please note that I did receive this product in order to try it out, and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own.
Sand Gone is a Mom-created dry body powder that when applied to sandy parts of your body removes the sand leaving your skin soft and smooth. No water is necessary to remove the sand! It helps cut down on the amount of sand tracked into your car and home (and then ultimately down your drains as you might know!) It comes with a huge powder puff to easily apply it to squirming kids:
As you might be able to see, it's a soft white powder. It smells SO yummy - like coconut! (You may be tempted to eat it, it actually smells that good! LOL) It's made from plant and vegetable starches, along with the fragrances. The container itself isn't overly huge, so it should fit into most beach bags and backpacks without hogging a lot of room.
Now I was hoping to add in a pretty picture of toes hanging out on the beach, but every time we head to the waterfront the last couple of weeks, it's been too cold to dip our toes in the water! In all fairness, we don't have tons of sand on our beaches out here in Washington either, but tons of fine rocks and dirt that drive us crazy, so maybe the picture wouldn't have been too pretty. ;) I did receive a fun sample bag of sand though to try it out with, and it was easy to dust on and get that fine sand off my hand. Just puff, and rub the sand off (preferably still on the beach, and not in your house! lol) I know I am gushing about the scent, but it's really a nice touch - it just adds to the summeriness (yes, I know that's not a word!) of the product.
I heard a rumor that after over 260 days since we saw 80 degrees here, that it just might crack the magic mark late next week, so I'll be sure to pack this along. (There is no way I am missing the beach if it gets that warm!)
Sand Gone comes in an 8 ounce family size container and retails for $12.95 plus shipping. You can order it via their website. They also have a little beach bag that you can purchase that comes with the 8 ounce size, plus a 2 ounce size, plus their Almond Coconut Soap too.
Please note that I did receive this product in order to try it out, and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own.
Book Review: Silver Girl By Elin Hilderbrand
I recently received an advance review copy of the new book Silver Girl by Elin Hilderbrand.
Silver Girl is set in the perfect Summer place to visit, beautiful Nantucket. (which, co-incidentally, is where the author lives) Meredith Martin Delinn has her world ripped out from underneath her feet when her husband, Freddy, cheats rich investors out of billions of dollars and is carted off to jail. She feels the embarrassment knowing authorities are going through all the belongings - pretty bed sheets, sweet smelling perfumes, her clothes - and packing them off to sell, as she boards a ferry with her friend Connie to hide incognito on Nantucket Island. Everyone in New York hated Meredith for what her husband had done, and now she must hide. All she has left in the world is a few pieces of Summer clothing, her prescription sunglasses, a few paperback novel, and photographs, birth certificates of her sons, and her marriage certificate.
Connie hasn't had it very easy either, and the two women hadn't spoken in nearly three years before Connie swooped in to snatch Meredith away before the paparazzi could take pictures. Shortly after arriving though, someone finds out Meredith is there and leaves a photograph so the ladies would know that this person knew. Other not-so-nice things start happening, too. Throughout all this, Connie and Meredith must patch up their friendship - strains that go back to their very first fight, when Meredith kissed Connie's older brother, Toby. Oh, and shall I mention that Toby makes an appearance, too? Will they get back together? Will Meredith be hauled off to jail too, just because the Feds think she's involved? You'll have to read the book to find out!
At first, I thought I wasn't really going to get into this book. Society life really isn't my thing, and I thought that maybe this book would be drowning in it. The main character was the opposite of everything I thought she might be. As I kept reading, I felt incredibly sad for Meredith, because it was clear that she had absolutely NO idea what her husband was doing. I felt bad for Connie too, as her husband had died of brain cancer a few years earlier, her daughter wasn't speaking to her, and she was obviously very lonely. The book kind of zips back and forth between both Meredith and Connie's point of views. I didn't want to put the book down because I wanted to know what was happening next! I finished the book in less than a day! (Yes, that was me, reading a page every chance I could get, and staying up late!) Silver Girl is a great Summer read, sitting by the pool or vegetating in your back yard on the swing.
Silver Girl by Elin Hilderbrand is a hardcover fiction book published by Reagan Arthur Books available at your favorite bookstore. It is 416 pages long. The suggested cover price is $26.99, but Amazon has it available for $14.74 as of this posting. It is also available as an e-book for the Kindle and other e-readers.
I received a copy of this book in order to read it and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own, and not that of the author(s) or publisher.
Silver Girl is set in the perfect Summer place to visit, beautiful Nantucket. (which, co-incidentally, is where the author lives) Meredith Martin Delinn has her world ripped out from underneath her feet when her husband, Freddy, cheats rich investors out of billions of dollars and is carted off to jail. She feels the embarrassment knowing authorities are going through all the belongings - pretty bed sheets, sweet smelling perfumes, her clothes - and packing them off to sell, as she boards a ferry with her friend Connie to hide incognito on Nantucket Island. Everyone in New York hated Meredith for what her husband had done, and now she must hide. All she has left in the world is a few pieces of Summer clothing, her prescription sunglasses, a few paperback novel, and photographs, birth certificates of her sons, and her marriage certificate.
Connie hasn't had it very easy either, and the two women hadn't spoken in nearly three years before Connie swooped in to snatch Meredith away before the paparazzi could take pictures. Shortly after arriving though, someone finds out Meredith is there and leaves a photograph so the ladies would know that this person knew. Other not-so-nice things start happening, too. Throughout all this, Connie and Meredith must patch up their friendship - strains that go back to their very first fight, when Meredith kissed Connie's older brother, Toby. Oh, and shall I mention that Toby makes an appearance, too? Will they get back together? Will Meredith be hauled off to jail too, just because the Feds think she's involved? You'll have to read the book to find out!
At first, I thought I wasn't really going to get into this book. Society life really isn't my thing, and I thought that maybe this book would be drowning in it. The main character was the opposite of everything I thought she might be. As I kept reading, I felt incredibly sad for Meredith, because it was clear that she had absolutely NO idea what her husband was doing. I felt bad for Connie too, as her husband had died of brain cancer a few years earlier, her daughter wasn't speaking to her, and she was obviously very lonely. The book kind of zips back and forth between both Meredith and Connie's point of views. I didn't want to put the book down because I wanted to know what was happening next! I finished the book in less than a day! (Yes, that was me, reading a page every chance I could get, and staying up late!) Silver Girl is a great Summer read, sitting by the pool or vegetating in your back yard on the swing.
Silver Girl by Elin Hilderbrand is a hardcover fiction book published by Reagan Arthur Books available at your favorite bookstore. It is 416 pages long. The suggested cover price is $26.99, but Amazon has it available for $14.74 as of this posting. It is also available as an e-book for the Kindle and other e-readers.
I received a copy of this book in order to read it and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own, and not that of the author(s) or publisher.
Making A List...
Alright, so in about 2 weeks from now, the insanity will be descending upon us. Us + my family + his family in our little house = hello, sardines. I would try to lock myself in the bathroom from time to time, but since we only have one, I'm sure there would be pounding on the door fairly quick. Sigh!
In exasperation, yesterday I went through and made a list of everything that needed to be done before they arrive. It was two notebook pages long - eek! Some of it was things that really needed to be done - ie, painting the deck, some of it stuff that I do on a regular basis anyways - like wipe down the cabinets and clean the fridge out, and then things that I am only doing because they are visiting - like making sure there is easy access to paper plates and like that so no one has to ask. Oh, and stocking up on toilet paper. I don't even want to think about how much toilet paper we will probably be going through, LOL
In a perfect world, we'll get through the list - but I'm not so sure. The way the rain keeps showing up, I can't get started on painting. Of course, right now the sun is playing hide and seek with me, so I am tempted to get out there and start painting - but it's supposed to rain today, the Weather Channel says? This is so frustrating! Seriously, here is the weather for the next few days:
I'm supposed to paint, how? Even if it dries enough Friday that I can paint Saturday, the rain comes back in Sunday before it would be completely dry! *bangs head against wall* AHHHHHHH! At least we should be able to get the bathroom painted, I guess. I still need white paint to fix the hallway trim, too, and I suppose I am going to have to break down and buy whatever is on sale. I guess I'll drag DH to Lowe's when he gets home. Good grief, they are starting to know us there. LOL
In exasperation, yesterday I went through and made a list of everything that needed to be done before they arrive. It was two notebook pages long - eek! Some of it was things that really needed to be done - ie, painting the deck, some of it stuff that I do on a regular basis anyways - like wipe down the cabinets and clean the fridge out, and then things that I am only doing because they are visiting - like making sure there is easy access to paper plates and like that so no one has to ask. Oh, and stocking up on toilet paper. I don't even want to think about how much toilet paper we will probably be going through, LOL
In a perfect world, we'll get through the list - but I'm not so sure. The way the rain keeps showing up, I can't get started on painting. Of course, right now the sun is playing hide and seek with me, so I am tempted to get out there and start painting - but it's supposed to rain today, the Weather Channel says? This is so frustrating! Seriously, here is the weather for the next few days:
I'm supposed to paint, how? Even if it dries enough Friday that I can paint Saturday, the rain comes back in Sunday before it would be completely dry! *bangs head against wall* AHHHHHHH! At least we should be able to get the bathroom painted, I guess. I still need white paint to fix the hallway trim, too, and I suppose I am going to have to break down and buy whatever is on sale. I guess I'll drag DH to Lowe's when he gets home. Good grief, they are starting to know us there. LOL
29 June 2011
Wordless Wednesday - Zombeh Kitteh Lazer Eyes Strikes Again!
(Side note: can you belive it's almost been two years since we found little Mystery in the Walmart parking lot? Time has flown!)
28 June 2011
Random Thoughts Tuesday - It's Still Tuesday, Right?
I'd have posted this sooner, if everything that can go wrong didn't always go wrong around here. I started the day hurrying to get all the cardboard into the recycling bin. I didn't even think twice, anything left is clutter - you know me. I didn't pay attention to the fact that DH hadn't checked over the camp kitchen set up we ordered from Amazon yet, and guess what was damaged? Yeah, I find that AFTER the box is gone. Sigh! So I had to dig around in the shed and luckily, I had one stashed in there that was big enough.
Guess what? We used the last of my packing tape, had it all ready to go - and then I find that neither of us put the invoice in the box.
Sigh!
Yeah, so time is not on our side. Today's project was simply to re-organize our bookshelves, and donate the books we didn't want in a pile for the library. It should have taken 2 hours max - try six instead. Turns out we had more water damage and ended up trying to move everything out of the corner to make sure things weren't worse.
I hate this house. It is the bane of my existence.
I did score low VOC paint for the bathroom for $5 at Lowe's - so here's hoping that room gets done before the in-laws arrive. It's a lovely shade of mint-green/sea-green. LOL Seriously, it could have been any color but pink or brown at this point, and I would have been thrilled just to finally score cheap paint for that room.
I am fighting the battle of the slugs in my garden again. I thought I had won the war, but then they tried to get my boo-ti-ful strawberries. DH had a little fun flinging them over the fence. ;) They fly far! LOL
I crave a seriously good grilled cheese. I need to bake first, and to do that, I need DH to reclaim all the crap he placed on my counter earlier.
Zombies Disturb Neighborhood Oops. You might want to clear it with your neighbors before trying to make your own film. LOL I bet the police got a laugh out of it when filing that report!
Zombies protest proposed Oakland library closures I protest too, and I don't even live there. C'mon folks, we need our libraries! I bet not one of the politicians would take a pay cut to pay for them, either. /sarcasm
and finally....
Rotting Hill: A Romantic Comedy With Zombies It's hilarious, but definitely not kid-friendly so be warned. ;)
Wiiiiinnnneeeerrrs!
Lots of winners today, so comments abbreviated so this post isn't a mile long. lol
The winners of the GUM Crayola Products giveaway are:
coliebear said...
coriwestphal said...
mail4rosey said...
Summer said...
Mariah said...
Theresa said...
Gia_Pet said...
Noelle said...
Russ said...
Sweeter the berry said...
And the winners of the Cascade 24 Hour Challenge giveaway are:
Joshlin said...
allysmama said...
Sandra K321 said...
catnap said...
Hollowsins said...
Congratulations everyone! I'm sending out emails right now. Remember you have 48 hours to get back to me! More winners on the way, too!
Blog Tour & Review: Flightless Goose By Eric D. Goodman
My family recently received a copy of the new book Flightless Goose by Eric D. Goodman and illustrated by Nataliya A. Goodman to review. I'm also participating in the blog tour surrounding this book, and today I am the stop on the tour!
First, I'd like to share with you some questions & answers from an interview I had with Eric D. Goodman:
Why did you decide to write this book? Did having children influence your decision to write it?
I've been in love with writing since early elementary school. I've always loved to write. I actually write adult fiction and non-fiction too. I think I was inspired to write Flightless Goose as a childrens' book because the story of a goose who can't fly seemed like an appropriate subject for a story book ... and I was inspired by the childrens' books I was reading to my own children at the time.
Gilbert the Goose really did exist - how did you find out about him?
I used to live on a lake, and there really was a goose who was hit by a car and rendered unable to fly. The other geese played tricks on him, flying from place to place and making the flightless goose swim after. Then he was left behind when the flock flew south for the winter. I was one of the people in the neighborhood who fed the goose bread crumbs. I thought it would make a great story, and offered an opportunity to teach some important lessons.
Are you writing another children's story right now? (Any chance we can get a hint of what it might be about?)
I'm working on a book now that deals with the environment. And another about compromise and working with people who are different or have a different point of view. We're also considering a sequel for Flightless Goose. Also, I write adult fiction. I have a novel in stories coming out this week, in fact. Tracks, a novel in stories, is set on a train traveling from Baltimore to Chicago. Each chapter is a stand alone story about a passenger on the train, but they all connect to form a novel. You can learn all about it, hear radio readings, and read excerpts at www.TracksNovel.com.
Do you have any advice for other writers?
I think the most important things are to begin by being a reader. The more you read, the better your writing will be. Then, you have to take the first step and start writing. Don't be intimidated by the blank page--just start writing. Don't worry about it being perfect because your first draft is only that--a first draft. You'll want to rewrite it. So the first step is just to let the story pour out of you. You can fix it later.
Thank you very much for taking the time out of your busy week to answer them!
Thank you, Storm! I look forward to visiting your blog.
And my review:
Flightless Goose is a childrens' storybook that tells the story of Gilbert, a goose. Gilbert is like all other gees - he likes to swim and play, and loves to fly. One day he is in a terrible accident, and he looses his ability to fly. At first, his friends didn't mind, but then they turned on him and said mean things. When it's time for the geese to fly South for the Summer, Gilbert is left behind, and while he enjoys it at first, becomes sad and lonely. What happens next? Well, you'll just have to pick up the book and read it to find out!
Flightless Goose is actually based upon a real story of a goose from Columbus, Ohio who was unable to fly South for the Winter. I liked that the story and illustrations in the book were both vertical and some horizontal. The message in the story is an important one for kids: just because you are different doesn't mean you can't overcome the obstacles.
Flightless Goose has partnered with the Pajama Program! Every book sold will help the charity deliver warm sleepwear and nurturing books to children in need.
Flightless Goose by Eric D. Goodman and illustrated by Nataliya A. Goodman is a hardcover children's book published by Writers' Lair Books. The suggested cover price is $15.95, and you can order it via your favorite local bookstore, or through the website.
I received a copy of this book in order to read it and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own, and not that of the author(s) or publisher.
First, I'd like to share with you some questions & answers from an interview I had with Eric D. Goodman:
Why did you decide to write this book? Did having children influence your decision to write it?
I've been in love with writing since early elementary school. I've always loved to write. I actually write adult fiction and non-fiction too. I think I was inspired to write Flightless Goose as a childrens' book because the story of a goose who can't fly seemed like an appropriate subject for a story book ... and I was inspired by the childrens' books I was reading to my own children at the time.
Gilbert the Goose really did exist - how did you find out about him?
I used to live on a lake, and there really was a goose who was hit by a car and rendered unable to fly. The other geese played tricks on him, flying from place to place and making the flightless goose swim after. Then he was left behind when the flock flew south for the winter. I was one of the people in the neighborhood who fed the goose bread crumbs. I thought it would make a great story, and offered an opportunity to teach some important lessons.
Are you writing another children's story right now? (Any chance we can get a hint of what it might be about?)
I'm working on a book now that deals with the environment. And another about compromise and working with people who are different or have a different point of view. We're also considering a sequel for Flightless Goose. Also, I write adult fiction. I have a novel in stories coming out this week, in fact. Tracks, a novel in stories, is set on a train traveling from Baltimore to Chicago. Each chapter is a stand alone story about a passenger on the train, but they all connect to form a novel. You can learn all about it, hear radio readings, and read excerpts at www.TracksNovel.com.
Do you have any advice for other writers?
I think the most important things are to begin by being a reader. The more you read, the better your writing will be. Then, you have to take the first step and start writing. Don't be intimidated by the blank page--just start writing. Don't worry about it being perfect because your first draft is only that--a first draft. You'll want to rewrite it. So the first step is just to let the story pour out of you. You can fix it later.
Thank you very much for taking the time out of your busy week to answer them!
Thank you, Storm! I look forward to visiting your blog.
And my review:
Flightless Goose is a childrens' storybook that tells the story of Gilbert, a goose. Gilbert is like all other gees - he likes to swim and play, and loves to fly. One day he is in a terrible accident, and he looses his ability to fly. At first, his friends didn't mind, but then they turned on him and said mean things. When it's time for the geese to fly South for the Summer, Gilbert is left behind, and while he enjoys it at first, becomes sad and lonely. What happens next? Well, you'll just have to pick up the book and read it to find out!
Flightless Goose is actually based upon a real story of a goose from Columbus, Ohio who was unable to fly South for the Winter. I liked that the story and illustrations in the book were both vertical and some horizontal. The message in the story is an important one for kids: just because you are different doesn't mean you can't overcome the obstacles.
Flightless Goose has partnered with the Pajama Program! Every book sold will help the charity deliver warm sleepwear and nurturing books to children in need.
Flightless Goose by Eric D. Goodman and illustrated by Nataliya A. Goodman is a hardcover children's book published by Writers' Lair Books. The suggested cover price is $15.95, and you can order it via your favorite local bookstore, or through the website.
I received a copy of this book in order to read it and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own, and not that of the author(s) or publisher.
27 June 2011
An Old Lady Wants To Blow Up A Plane...
This was just forwarded to me, and it's rant on:
Elderly woman has to remove diaper for pat-down
A 95 year old terrorist with a bomb in their diaper? Really? Do we now live in a police state, or what? How embarrassing for that old lady, who should be treated with the utmost respect at that age - what has happened to respect for our elders? How embarrassing for us, as a nation, that we allow this to happen. What are have our soliders been dying for since this great nation was established? Freedom, right? Why are we letting it being taken from us, and this lady?
Because terrorists are old ladies, six year olds, and breastfeeding babies? Come on! How many terrorists has the TSA actually stopped exactly again? Why are we paying for this with our tax money? You want proper security done right, then it should be our military doing it.
I wonder what America's brave founders would say if they saw the way our country was today.
I would rather be exposed to the inconveniences attending too much liberty than to those attending too small a degree of it. ~Thomas Jefferson
Elderly woman has to remove diaper for pat-down
A 95 year old terrorist with a bomb in their diaper? Really? Do we now live in a police state, or what? How embarrassing for that old lady, who should be treated with the utmost respect at that age - what has happened to respect for our elders? How embarrassing for us, as a nation, that we allow this to happen. What are have our soliders been dying for since this great nation was established? Freedom, right? Why are we letting it being taken from us, and this lady?
Because terrorists are old ladies, six year olds, and breastfeeding babies? Come on! How many terrorists has the TSA actually stopped exactly again? Why are we paying for this with our tax money? You want proper security done right, then it should be our military doing it.
I wonder what America's brave founders would say if they saw the way our country was today.
Menu Planning Monday - June Is Almost Over
As you can probably guess, I bought a bunch of chicken on sale again. ;) Actually, I'm in the process of trying to finish off whatever I can out of the fridge and part of the freezer, so there's some extra wiggle room when my in-laws arrive in about two and a half weeks - I came to the conclusion I would freeze a couple of Mexican Pasta Bakes a few days before they arrive, so there would be a quick dinner, but other than that, I'll let them lead the way. I don't want to plan a bunch of meals and then they decide they don't want to be around the house and perhaps do more tourist-y things instead.
Monday: BBQ shredded chicken sandwiches, pasta salad, fruit cups
Tuesday: chicken fajitas
Wednesday: orange chicken 'n rice, stiry fry veggies
Thursday: homemade chicken stromboli
Friday: Linguini with Broccoli and Red Peppers
Saturday: Barbecue Lasagna
Sunday: recipe of the week
Check out Organizing Junkie for other great Menu Plans!
26 June 2011
Preschool Fighting Gender Bias?
Apparently, there's gender bias when you're 3. Who knew? No 'him' or 'her'; preschool fights gender bias
Hey, yeah, let's just confuse the living daylights out of our kids and mess them up even further?! Let me be honest: I don't agree with it and I would never allow my child to be in that school. I agree with letting the kids play with whatever they want. I don't think the play kitchen should be limited to just girls (my daughter sees her daddy helping me in the kitchen plenty since he loves to "mix" things for me lol) and nor do I think that cars should be just for boys to play with - my daughter has been happily playing with her new Chuggington train set that I won from Mama Buzz since it arrived Friday. Toys are toys and more power to any boy that wants to play with pink sparkly shoes for Barbie, and girls that want to make mud-pies in the yard. (I was one of them!)
I see issue in that we can't say "he" or "she". I am a woman, and I am PROUD to be a woman. I expect my daughter to say "ma'am" or "sir" when she is addressed by strangers and I don't get the whole desire to be totally equal. When men can give birth - and I mean all MEN - and all humans have the same body parts - then you can start talking about being equal on a gender footing.
If my daughter wants to be a doctor, she can be a doctor. If she wants to be a Vegas showgirl, go for it. Choosing to get married at an early age and be a stay at home mom? That's fine. I don't see how the toys she plays with is going to dictate whether she chooses to be a truck driver or a computer hacker for the government. The lack of learning opportunities, and not being taught the consequences of actions, is more likely to cause a child problems later in life.
Do you agree with the school's mantra? Would you send your child to that school?
Hey, yeah, let's just confuse the living daylights out of our kids and mess them up even further?! Let me be honest: I don't agree with it and I would never allow my child to be in that school. I agree with letting the kids play with whatever they want. I don't think the play kitchen should be limited to just girls (my daughter sees her daddy helping me in the kitchen plenty since he loves to "mix" things for me lol) and nor do I think that cars should be just for boys to play with - my daughter has been happily playing with her new Chuggington train set that I won from Mama Buzz since it arrived Friday. Toys are toys and more power to any boy that wants to play with pink sparkly shoes for Barbie, and girls that want to make mud-pies in the yard. (I was one of them!)
I see issue in that we can't say "he" or "she". I am a woman, and I am PROUD to be a woman. I expect my daughter to say "ma'am" or "sir" when she is addressed by strangers and I don't get the whole desire to be totally equal. When men can give birth - and I mean all MEN - and all humans have the same body parts - then you can start talking about being equal on a gender footing.
If my daughter wants to be a doctor, she can be a doctor. If she wants to be a Vegas showgirl, go for it. Choosing to get married at an early age and be a stay at home mom? That's fine. I don't see how the toys she plays with is going to dictate whether she chooses to be a truck driver or a computer hacker for the government. The lack of learning opportunities, and not being taught the consequences of actions, is more likely to cause a child problems later in life.
Do you agree with the school's mantra? Would you send your child to that school?
Book Review: The Stocked Kitchen By Sarah Kallio and Stacey Krastins
I recently received a copy of the new book The Stocked Kitchen by Sarah Kallio and Stacey Krastins to review.
If you've ever stood in the kitchen staring at your cabinets and refrigerator contents thinking you didn't have anything to make a decent meal, so instead you consider order pizza or carryout, The Stocked Kitchen is a book you need to pick up. The Stocked Kitchen focuses on keeping a selection of recipe ingredients always on hand, so you can quickly make healthier meals without making a run to the grocery store. Unlike some recipe books that use ingredients you may use for only a recipe or two, the ingredients used in these recipes can be used in many. It follows the basics of having a well stocked pantry - something I believe we all should have. Included in the book is "tear-and-go" shopping lists, which include pantry basics that store for a long time such as sugars and flours, condiments, spices, and fresher items like cheese, meats, and produce. (there are at least 20 copies of this shopping list, and I am sure by the time you run out, you'll have the list memorized and be fully aware of what you have in your home at any time)
Upon scanning that list, I can attest that the ingredients are all easy to find, and items you can have on hand without it going bad quickly (except produce and dairy, of course). If there are items on the list your family doesn't use - certain meats, for instance, you can always skip that section.
There are tips and tricks throughout the book on many of the recipes - including serving suggestions, and tips to help make the meal be created smoother. One of the things I really liked was that they give you a run down on cooking aides/supplies you should have in your kitchen via their glossary, from baking pans to jelly rolls pans (just what is that anyways? I used to wonder for years before I finally found out last year, lol) to more about ingredients like grill seasoning and shallots.
The recipes themselves are semi-homemade - some nearly from scratch such as steak fajitas, and others such as breadsticks using frozen bread. (Cough, I know the point of the book is fast and easy, but breaksticks are so gosh darn EASY to make from scratch?) There is a wide variety of recipes included - 300 - including everything from appetizers to soups and salads to entrees to desserts, and marinades too. The directions to prepare them are short and sweet, and easy enough for even kitchen novices to understand. My only gripe is that there isn't finished pictures of each recipe included, something I like to see in my cookbooks. (You know me and pictures so I can be sure I've done it right!)
If you are looking for a cookbook that will help you make the most out of your pantry and time spent in the kitchen (as well as at the grocery store!), then The Stocked Kitchen is one you should pick up. If you're already well versed in food storage and having a stocked pantry, The Stocked Kitchen can also bring about a few new meal ideas, as well as be a helping hand to send others into their food storage journey. It would make a good first home housewarming gift as well. However, if you are looking for mostly vegetarian recipes, there are a good amount in here, but probably not enough for you. You can watch the authors talk about the book:
Direct Link for the feedreaders
And visit their website here.
The Stocked Kitchen by Sarah Kallio and Stacey Krastins is a hardcover cooking book published by Atria Books that will be available July 5th, 2011. It is 320 pages long. The suggested retail price for the book is $24.99, but Amazon has it available for $15.98 as of this posting. It is also available as an e-book for the Kindle and other e-readers.
I received a copy of this book in order to read it and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own, and not that of the author(s) or publisher.
If you've ever stood in the kitchen staring at your cabinets and refrigerator contents thinking you didn't have anything to make a decent meal, so instead you consider order pizza or carryout, The Stocked Kitchen is a book you need to pick up. The Stocked Kitchen focuses on keeping a selection of recipe ingredients always on hand, so you can quickly make healthier meals without making a run to the grocery store. Unlike some recipe books that use ingredients you may use for only a recipe or two, the ingredients used in these recipes can be used in many. It follows the basics of having a well stocked pantry - something I believe we all should have. Included in the book is "tear-and-go" shopping lists, which include pantry basics that store for a long time such as sugars and flours, condiments, spices, and fresher items like cheese, meats, and produce. (there are at least 20 copies of this shopping list, and I am sure by the time you run out, you'll have the list memorized and be fully aware of what you have in your home at any time)
Upon scanning that list, I can attest that the ingredients are all easy to find, and items you can have on hand without it going bad quickly (except produce and dairy, of course). If there are items on the list your family doesn't use - certain meats, for instance, you can always skip that section.
There are tips and tricks throughout the book on many of the recipes - including serving suggestions, and tips to help make the meal be created smoother. One of the things I really liked was that they give you a run down on cooking aides/supplies you should have in your kitchen via their glossary, from baking pans to jelly rolls pans (just what is that anyways? I used to wonder for years before I finally found out last year, lol) to more about ingredients like grill seasoning and shallots.
The recipes themselves are semi-homemade - some nearly from scratch such as steak fajitas, and others such as breadsticks using frozen bread. (Cough, I know the point of the book is fast and easy, but breaksticks are so gosh darn EASY to make from scratch?) There is a wide variety of recipes included - 300 - including everything from appetizers to soups and salads to entrees to desserts, and marinades too. The directions to prepare them are short and sweet, and easy enough for even kitchen novices to understand. My only gripe is that there isn't finished pictures of each recipe included, something I like to see in my cookbooks. (You know me and pictures so I can be sure I've done it right!)
If you are looking for a cookbook that will help you make the most out of your pantry and time spent in the kitchen (as well as at the grocery store!), then The Stocked Kitchen is one you should pick up. If you're already well versed in food storage and having a stocked pantry, The Stocked Kitchen can also bring about a few new meal ideas, as well as be a helping hand to send others into their food storage journey. It would make a good first home housewarming gift as well. However, if you are looking for mostly vegetarian recipes, there are a good amount in here, but probably not enough for you. You can watch the authors talk about the book:
Direct Link for the feedreaders
And visit their website here.
The Stocked Kitchen by Sarah Kallio and Stacey Krastins is a hardcover cooking book published by Atria Books that will be available July 5th, 2011. It is 320 pages long. The suggested retail price for the book is $24.99, but Amazon has it available for $15.98 as of this posting. It is also available as an e-book for the Kindle and other e-readers.
I received a copy of this book in order to read it and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own, and not that of the author(s) or publisher.
25 June 2011
Review: Montagne Jennesse Masque
As a mom, I value every little moment I get alone for some pampering "me-time". Gone are those days of spending an hour or two getting my make-up and hair just right. (Sadly, these days, my DH spends more time in the bathroom getting ready than I do! LOL) I'm lucky to get 20 minutes here or there, and a trip to an actual spa? That's a dream. lol
Montagne Jennesse Masque sent me on over three of their facial masques so I could have a spa experience in my own home! I received the Passion Peel Off, Mud Pac, and Fudge Sauna to try.
The Mud Pac is for normal, oily, and T-zone skin. It ultra deep cleans pores, and contains sea kelp nutrients. You simply rinse your face without soap, and then apply evenly over your skin, avoiding your eyes and lips, of course. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes while you go about doing other things - I took this opportunity to shave my legs, lol When I opened the packet, I could smell lavender, along with a hint of something else - it turns out that something else was the seaweed and minerals. There was plenty in the packet, more than enough to cover my face. (I convinced DH to try a little of the leftovers on his face. LOL! I torture the guy sometimes!)
The Fudge Sauna is a self heating masque meant to open and deeply cleanse pores to get all that yucky stuff out of them. It actually uses a Mediterranean clay. This particular masque you need to first rinse your face with warm water, and then leave it completely wet in order to aid spreading the masque over your face and neck. Again, you leave it on 10-15 minutes. I'll admit I wasn't overly thrilled to see propylene glycol on the ingredients list of this one, as it's ingredient I am trying to keep out of our home.
The Deep Cleansing Passion Peel Off is a deep cleansing masque made to purify and protect with ingredients like Pomegranate Pulp and Passion Flower. This one you need to cleanse your face thoroughly before applying the masque, being sure not to get it into your hairline, eyebrows, etc, as this masque peels off. It does peel off pretty easily, too, and the few little bits that didn't come off were easily removed in the shower. Again, this masque has propylene glycol, and some other things I wasn't expecting (variations of alcohol), so be aware if you are also watching ingredients like me.
A single use packet of Montagne Jennesse Masque retails for $2.25, and those living in the continental US can receive free shipping on their orders of $35 or more. By the way, if you've never really used facial masques before, or trying out a new brand, I suggest using it before a shower at night, so your skin can recover overnight if you should have a reaction to any of the ingredients.
Montagne Jennesse Masque is made in the UK, but only available here in the US. The single use packets are easy to pack into luggage for vacations so you can continue to use them during your beauty routine. The company is against animal testing, and their cruelty free products are approved by the Vegetarian Society, so that's great news! The company also created the very first Eco-factory with wind generator in Europe.
If you're on Facebook, "like" the company here for specials and new product information.
I received samples of the product mentioned above in order to try the product out and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own.
Montagne Jennesse Masque sent me on over three of their facial masques so I could have a spa experience in my own home! I received the Passion Peel Off, Mud Pac, and Fudge Sauna to try.
The Mud Pac is for normal, oily, and T-zone skin. It ultra deep cleans pores, and contains sea kelp nutrients. You simply rinse your face without soap, and then apply evenly over your skin, avoiding your eyes and lips, of course. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes while you go about doing other things - I took this opportunity to shave my legs, lol When I opened the packet, I could smell lavender, along with a hint of something else - it turns out that something else was the seaweed and minerals. There was plenty in the packet, more than enough to cover my face. (I convinced DH to try a little of the leftovers on his face. LOL! I torture the guy sometimes!)
The Fudge Sauna is a self heating masque meant to open and deeply cleanse pores to get all that yucky stuff out of them. It actually uses a Mediterranean clay. This particular masque you need to first rinse your face with warm water, and then leave it completely wet in order to aid spreading the masque over your face and neck. Again, you leave it on 10-15 minutes. I'll admit I wasn't overly thrilled to see propylene glycol on the ingredients list of this one, as it's ingredient I am trying to keep out of our home.
The Deep Cleansing Passion Peel Off is a deep cleansing masque made to purify and protect with ingredients like Pomegranate Pulp and Passion Flower. This one you need to cleanse your face thoroughly before applying the masque, being sure not to get it into your hairline, eyebrows, etc, as this masque peels off. It does peel off pretty easily, too, and the few little bits that didn't come off were easily removed in the shower. Again, this masque has propylene glycol, and some other things I wasn't expecting (variations of alcohol), so be aware if you are also watching ingredients like me.
A single use packet of Montagne Jennesse Masque retails for $2.25, and those living in the continental US can receive free shipping on their orders of $35 or more. By the way, if you've never really used facial masques before, or trying out a new brand, I suggest using it before a shower at night, so your skin can recover overnight if you should have a reaction to any of the ingredients.
Montagne Jennesse Masque is made in the UK, but only available here in the US. The single use packets are easy to pack into luggage for vacations so you can continue to use them during your beauty routine. The company is against animal testing, and their cruelty free products are approved by the Vegetarian Society, so that's great news! The company also created the very first Eco-factory with wind generator in Europe.
If you're on Facebook, "like" the company here for specials and new product information.
I received samples of the product mentioned above in order to try the product out and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own.
Save Time And Money In The Kitchen
We all know that using coupons and menu planning can help save money in our kitchen. But did you know that changing some of our cooking habits can save us money too?
You may just grab the first pot you see and put it on the burner closest to you at the time, but using the wrong size pot or pan on the wrong size burner can not only up your electric usage, it can also mean you're spending longer in the kitchen than you need to! Use larger pots and pans on the larger burners, and smaller ones on the small burners.
Using a lid on soups and stir fries means your food will also cook faster, as well as save you money again. Another trick to get dinner to cook faster is to use thinner slices of meat and vegetables. You can shave as much as five to ten minutes, depending on what dinner is that night!
You may just grab the first pot you see and put it on the burner closest to you at the time, but using the wrong size pot or pan on the wrong size burner can not only up your electric usage, it can also mean you're spending longer in the kitchen than you need to! Use larger pots and pans on the larger burners, and smaller ones on the small burners.
Using a lid on soups and stir fries means your food will also cook faster, as well as save you money again. Another trick to get dinner to cook faster is to use thinner slices of meat and vegetables. You can shave as much as five to ten minutes, depending on what dinner is that night!
DVD Review: Victorious Season One Volume One
My family and I recently received a copy of the new DVD Victorious Season One Volume One to review.
Victorious Season One Volume One is the DVD debut for this popular new 'tween series on the Nickelodeon network. Victorious follows Tori Vega who attends a prestigious performing arts high school called Hollywood Arts. The school is filled with plenty of talented students, and Tori is overwhelmed at the beginning. As the show progresses, she starts to come out of her shell more and realizes she really is talented too. Luckily, her older sister Trina also attends the school, so she has a bit of back up, and she meets some other cool students - as well as a few mean ones. If your kids like iCarly or Glee, they'll probably enjoy this one too, if they haven't already discovered it! It's best for the ages 9 and up crowd, though as a parent, you may want to decide for yourself.
Victorious Season One Volume One contains the first ten episodes of the series on two discs, including the extended version of the pilot, where Tori's older sister Trina experiences an allergic reaction and can't sing during the big school showcase. Tori, who doesn't attend the school yet, fills in. She's such a hit that the school offers her admission, and her journey through high school at Hollywood Arts begins. (and there's even an honorable zombie mention, in the episode "Tori The Zombie"). Episodes included are: "Pilot (Extended Version", "The Bird Scene", "Stage Fighting", "Beck's Big Break", "Tori The Zombie", "Jade Dumps Back", "The Birthweek Song", "Robarazzi", "A Film By Dale Squires", and "Rex Dies".
The DVD does also include some special features, including a "Meet Tori Vega" and the rest of the cast, as well as two music videos: "Freak the Freak Out" and "Beggin' on Your Knees".
Victorious Season One Volume One will be released on Tuesday, July 5th, 2011. Full screen format, it is not rated (see above for my thoughts), and has a total running time of 243 minutes long. The suggested retail price is $19.99, but Amazon has it available on pre-order for $15.49 as of this posting. (Netflix users: this title is not currently available, but add it to your DVD queue to be notified when it is.)
I received a copy of this DVD in order to share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own.
Victorious Season One Volume One is the DVD debut for this popular new 'tween series on the Nickelodeon network. Victorious follows Tori Vega who attends a prestigious performing arts high school called Hollywood Arts. The school is filled with plenty of talented students, and Tori is overwhelmed at the beginning. As the show progresses, she starts to come out of her shell more and realizes she really is talented too. Luckily, her older sister Trina also attends the school, so she has a bit of back up, and she meets some other cool students - as well as a few mean ones. If your kids like iCarly or Glee, they'll probably enjoy this one too, if they haven't already discovered it! It's best for the ages 9 and up crowd, though as a parent, you may want to decide for yourself.
Victorious Season One Volume One contains the first ten episodes of the series on two discs, including the extended version of the pilot, where Tori's older sister Trina experiences an allergic reaction and can't sing during the big school showcase. Tori, who doesn't attend the school yet, fills in. She's such a hit that the school offers her admission, and her journey through high school at Hollywood Arts begins. (and there's even an honorable zombie mention, in the episode "Tori The Zombie"). Episodes included are: "Pilot (Extended Version", "The Bird Scene", "Stage Fighting", "Beck's Big Break", "Tori The Zombie", "Jade Dumps Back", "The Birthweek Song", "Robarazzi", "A Film By Dale Squires", and "Rex Dies".
The DVD does also include some special features, including a "Meet Tori Vega" and the rest of the cast, as well as two music videos: "Freak the Freak Out" and "Beggin' on Your Knees".
Victorious Season One Volume One will be released on Tuesday, July 5th, 2011. Full screen format, it is not rated (see above for my thoughts), and has a total running time of 243 minutes long. The suggested retail price is $19.99, but Amazon has it available on pre-order for $15.49 as of this posting. (Netflix users: this title is not currently available, but add it to your DVD queue to be notified when it is.)
I received a copy of this DVD in order to share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own.
24 June 2011
Man Vs Food Vs... Torture?
DH has been on a Man Vs Food Netflix kick the last few weeks. I've now decided that we should force any enemy to fast for three days, and then watch that show.
It's torture.
It wouldn't be so bad if he watched it around dinner time, but he's always putting it on late at night when the munchies can strike with a vengeance. Some of the dishes are a little out there, and there's no way on this earth I'd ever participate in any of the eating challenges (180 oysters, anyone?) but then they show beauties like the 11-lb. Carnivore Pizza Challenge at Big Pie in the Sky:
Which makes me whimper. That pizza would feed me for a month, but oh my gosh.
I watch the episodes in amazement - especially when Adam visits the kitchens and we get a behind the scenes look at some of the dishes being made. I think it's hysterical that pancakes are being flipped with pizza peels! How do they come up with some of these ideas?
And then I think, hello, gluttony. But really, who eats these things every day? Sure, I love to watch these shows, and I'd visit some of these places to try dishes featured (not the eating challenges! lol). Who wouldn't? A five pound hamburger is my DH's dream come true - not that I think he could finish it. I'm sure it's many guys' dream come true, too.
It drives me crazy when I read stories on major newsites about The Best 10... (insert food of choice) and people are complaining about America being fat, that food is too fattening, etc, and dishes should be banned.
I say this over and over again, but the problem isn't necessarily what a person is eating, it's the lack of exercise, and how much you're eating. Sure, I get a kick out of the B3 burrito:
but if we ate it - and it would be all of us as that puppy is two feet long - and took it home as leftovers(!) - my rear end would be hoofing it for some serious foot time along with a healthy dose of Wii Fit.
So do you watch Man Vs Food? What dish would you try?
It's torture.
It wouldn't be so bad if he watched it around dinner time, but he's always putting it on late at night when the munchies can strike with a vengeance. Some of the dishes are a little out there, and there's no way on this earth I'd ever participate in any of the eating challenges (180 oysters, anyone?) but then they show beauties like the 11-lb. Carnivore Pizza Challenge at Big Pie in the Sky:
Which makes me whimper. That pizza would feed me for a month, but oh my gosh.
I watch the episodes in amazement - especially when Adam visits the kitchens and we get a behind the scenes look at some of the dishes being made. I think it's hysterical that pancakes are being flipped with pizza peels! How do they come up with some of these ideas?
And then I think, hello, gluttony. But really, who eats these things every day? Sure, I love to watch these shows, and I'd visit some of these places to try dishes featured (not the eating challenges! lol). Who wouldn't? A five pound hamburger is my DH's dream come true - not that I think he could finish it. I'm sure it's many guys' dream come true, too.
It drives me crazy when I read stories on major newsites about The Best 10... (insert food of choice) and people are complaining about America being fat, that food is too fattening, etc, and dishes should be banned.
I say this over and over again, but the problem isn't necessarily what a person is eating, it's the lack of exercise, and how much you're eating. Sure, I get a kick out of the B3 burrito:
but if we ate it - and it would be all of us as that puppy is two feet long - and took it home as leftovers(!) - my rear end would be hoofing it for some serious foot time along with a healthy dose of Wii Fit.
So do you watch Man Vs Food? What dish would you try?
GIVEAWAY: Help Save Music In Public Schools, And Learn To Play The Ocarina
Summer is here and parents are looking for ways to keep their kids entertained, engaged and learning. Many families will enroll children in music lessons over the summer, but there are other economical ways to introduce kids to the joy of playing an instrument.
Look, we know that not everyone has the time, resources or interest to devote to private instruction and buying or renting a violin, cello or piano for their kids. For these families, the ocarina is a great choice!
Guess what? It’s the main instrument behind the popular video game The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time!
Are you a Zelda fan? If so, you’ll know that everyone’s raving about the exciting release of Nintendo’s The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3DS. And what better way to celebrate the new game than a giveaway, right? ;)
Thanks to STL Ocarina, I have one Special Edition Zelda 12 Hole Tenor Ocarina ($74 value) to giveaway to my readers! Entry details below.
Save Music in Schools
STL Ocarina is doing great things. Check out this video to find out about their special assembly program to help educate public school kids about basic musical concepts, unique instruments, world music, and more. Cast your vote now! (You get one each day in June).
Win it! To enter the giveaway, tell us all about your love of the Legend of Zelda game series. Are you old school? Do you remember playing it way back when it all started on the original Nintendo? (Are you like us and have an original one and the games that you still play? LOL)
As usual, you can get a second entry for being a GFC follower, or email subscriber.
Bonus entries:
• Help take over 5,000 children around the world with the ocarina by voting for St. Louis School of Music in the Pepsi Refresh Project. (see above!)
•If Heather and the STL Ocarina Trio are successful in bringing this great opportunity to kids in St. Louis public schools, where would you like to see them go next?
That's up to four (4) entries! Giveaway ends July 2nd at 11:59 PM PST, and please leave your email address in your entry or have it available in your profile. US only, sorry. :( Good luck!
About STL Ocarina: Young people all over the world have become interested in the ocarina, a pocket-sized pottery wind instrument, thanks to the popular Legend of Zelda game. An outgrowth of the St. Louis School of Music, STL Ocarina produces ocarinas for all ages and skill levels, from kids' models shaped like fish, whales and dolphins starting at $10 to professional models starting under $100 and made of Purple Clay, a rare natural mineral found only in the region of Yixing, China. Heather Scott has mastered the ocarina as well as the flute, and is currently earning her master's degree in flute performance while serving as a worldwide ambassador for the ocarina across the Web. Are you a Zelda fan? Watch this fun video: When Link Met Zelda at Anime Weekend.
Please note: I am not receiving anything for hosting this giveaway. The sponsor is responsible for fulfilling the prize to one lucky reader.
Look, we know that not everyone has the time, resources or interest to devote to private instruction and buying or renting a violin, cello or piano for their kids. For these families, the ocarina is a great choice!
Guess what? It’s the main instrument behind the popular video game The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time!
Are you a Zelda fan? If so, you’ll know that everyone’s raving about the exciting release of Nintendo’s The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3DS. And what better way to celebrate the new game than a giveaway, right? ;)
Thanks to STL Ocarina, I have one Special Edition Zelda 12 Hole Tenor Ocarina ($74 value) to giveaway to my readers! Entry details below.
STL Ocarina is doing great things. Check out this video to find out about their special assembly program to help educate public school kids about basic musical concepts, unique instruments, world music, and more. Cast your vote now! (You get one each day in June).
Win it! To enter the giveaway, tell us all about your love of the Legend of Zelda game series. Are you old school? Do you remember playing it way back when it all started on the original Nintendo? (Are you like us and have an original one and the games that you still play? LOL)
As usual, you can get a second entry for being a GFC follower, or email subscriber.
Bonus entries:
• Help take over 5,000 children around the world with the ocarina by voting for St. Louis School of Music in the Pepsi Refresh Project. (see above!)
•If Heather and the STL Ocarina Trio are successful in bringing this great opportunity to kids in St. Louis public schools, where would you like to see them go next?
That's up to four (4) entries! Giveaway ends July 2nd at 11:59 PM PST, and please leave your email address in your entry or have it available in your profile. US only, sorry. :( Good luck!
About STL Ocarina: Young people all over the world have become interested in the ocarina, a pocket-sized pottery wind instrument, thanks to the popular Legend of Zelda game. An outgrowth of the St. Louis School of Music, STL Ocarina produces ocarinas for all ages and skill levels, from kids' models shaped like fish, whales and dolphins starting at $10 to professional models starting under $100 and made of Purple Clay, a rare natural mineral found only in the region of Yixing, China. Heather Scott has mastered the ocarina as well as the flute, and is currently earning her master's degree in flute performance while serving as a worldwide ambassador for the ocarina across the Web. Are you a Zelda fan? Watch this fun video: When Link Met Zelda at Anime Weekend.
Please note: I am not receiving anything for hosting this giveaway. The sponsor is responsible for fulfilling the prize to one lucky reader.
DVD Review: Team Umizoomi
My family and I recently received a copy of the new animated Nickelodeon DVD Team Umizoomi to review.
Team Umizoomi is one of the newest Nick Jr. shows for the pre-school crowd. It teaches kids basic math skills and more patterns and shapes with Milli, Geo, and Bot's help. Kids learn counting and comparison, with basic problem solving skills. The show kind of complements other Nick shows where they learn problem solving (like with Blue's Clues) and observing as well as foreign language (Dora the Explorer). Don't think that the show is boring - it's cute and it does catch kids attention - Milli, for instance, is a little girl who's pigtails turn into rulers. (Now that's cool! lol) The characters sing songs to help kids learn, and the music is more in the vein of pop music. Like Dora and Diego, the show is interactive.
Team Umizoomi is the DVD debut for this series, and it contains four (obviously) new to DVD episodes: "The Rolling Toy Parade", "The Legend of the Blue Mermaid", "Kite Festival" and "Wild West Train Show" (Our favorite on the DVD!)
The DVD also contains some special features: a fun "The Blue Mermaid Shapes Under The Sea Game", which kids can play, and some short Team Umizoomi videos where the kids can meet the characters.
Team Umizoomi will be released this Tuesday, June 28th, 2011. Full screen format, it is not rated, but safe for all ages and geared towards the 2-4 crowd. The total running time is 95 minutes long. The suggested retail price is $16.99, but Amazon has it available on pre-order for $11.99 as of this posting. (Netflix users: this title is not currently available, but add it to your DVD queue to be notified when it is.)
I received a copy of this DVD in order to view and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are simply mine.
Team Umizoomi is one of the newest Nick Jr. shows for the pre-school crowd. It teaches kids basic math skills and more patterns and shapes with Milli, Geo, and Bot's help. Kids learn counting and comparison, with basic problem solving skills. The show kind of complements other Nick shows where they learn problem solving (like with Blue's Clues) and observing as well as foreign language (Dora the Explorer). Don't think that the show is boring - it's cute and it does catch kids attention - Milli, for instance, is a little girl who's pigtails turn into rulers. (Now that's cool! lol) The characters sing songs to help kids learn, and the music is more in the vein of pop music. Like Dora and Diego, the show is interactive.
Team Umizoomi is the DVD debut for this series, and it contains four (obviously) new to DVD episodes: "The Rolling Toy Parade", "The Legend of the Blue Mermaid", "Kite Festival" and "Wild West Train Show" (Our favorite on the DVD!)
The DVD also contains some special features: a fun "The Blue Mermaid Shapes Under The Sea Game", which kids can play, and some short Team Umizoomi videos where the kids can meet the characters.
Team Umizoomi will be released this Tuesday, June 28th, 2011. Full screen format, it is not rated, but safe for all ages and geared towards the 2-4 crowd. The total running time is 95 minutes long. The suggested retail price is $16.99, but Amazon has it available on pre-order for $11.99 as of this posting. (Netflix users: this title is not currently available, but add it to your DVD queue to be notified when it is.)
I received a copy of this DVD in order to view and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are simply mine.
23 June 2011
Nearly End Of June Randomness
Here we go again - my inbox is yet again full of great stuff, and rather than have 5 million new posts for y'all today, here's a bit of contests, coupons, charity news, and fun stuff for you all in one nifty post. You know the drill, right? ;) Have fun entering, save a little money, or support a needful charity - the choice is yours.
Tupperware Brands will donate $1 to the Boys and Girls Clubs of America for every “like” of www.Facebook.com/chainofconfidence. The Chain of Confidence Facebook Page guides women to success by providing them the tools and mentorship needed for personal and professional growth.
Have you seen the movie Super 8 yet? DH went to see it on his birthday and said it was awesome. If you're unfamiliar with the movie, it's set back in the 1970's, where several kids are filming scenes for a zombie movie with a Super 8 camera (hence, the title of the movie) when an accident happens on the train tracks. It turns out the train is connected to the military, and strange happenings start around town - all the dogs run away, etc. I'll stop there so I don't ruin it for anyone, but you'll see a lot of retro items featured in the film, including Rocket Poppeteers frozen pops. 7-11 stores will be carrying these all Summer long, along with other retro foods, and the Rocket Poppeteers frozen pops are just 98 cents each! They make a cheap treat when you're on road trips (we picked up some the other day!). You can also unlock an exclusive Rocket Poppeteers digital comic book on www.slurpee.com by redeeming five Slurpee Nation Rewards points.
Four US family members will be running across the US this Summer - the first time in history related folks have done it together - to raise awareness for increased choices in health care to Main Street America. The Run: Moving Natural Medicine Forward [www.therun.org] is an extraordinary 3,250-Mile run across America! Naturopathic Physician Dr. Dennis Godby and team, are setting out to increase awareness, educate and empower people about Natural Medicine: preventing disease, finding and treating the cause of illness, and revitalizing the nation’s health. If you'd like to follow along with their journey (they start July 17th in San Francisco), and find out more about natural health choices, click here.
...I wonder how many pairs of running shoes they will go through on this journey?!
ALO Drink, the #1 ready-to-drink aloe vera beverage in the U.S. natural market, is offering a 50 cent coupon when you "like" ALO on Facebook.
You folks know me and superheroes, so as you can guess I am super de duper excited about the new Captain America movie coming out July 22nd!! Captain America recently launched a digital page that features a FREE exclusive digital Captain America comic, as well as other exclusive Captain America content such as movie stills, trailers, and character art - just click here to get to it.
Laura's Lean Beef is celebrating the start of summer grilling season with a Facebook sweepstakes that runs through August 22, 2011. You could win one of the weekly prize packages, which includes a Big Green Egg ceramic grill and smoker. (Me want! Me want!!) For more information, including rules, and to enter, click here. They also have a printable coupon to save you $1.00 off your purchase of steaks!
Anime Castle will give you 10% off your next order, now through June 30th. Use promo code ACSOHOT at checkout to receive it.
Tupperware Brands will donate $1 to the Boys and Girls Clubs of America for every “like” of www.Facebook.com/chainofconfidence. The Chain of Confidence Facebook Page guides women to success by providing them the tools and mentorship needed for personal and professional growth.
Have you seen the movie Super 8 yet? DH went to see it on his birthday and said it was awesome. If you're unfamiliar with the movie, it's set back in the 1970's, where several kids are filming scenes for a zombie movie with a Super 8 camera (hence, the title of the movie) when an accident happens on the train tracks. It turns out the train is connected to the military, and strange happenings start around town - all the dogs run away, etc. I'll stop there so I don't ruin it for anyone, but you'll see a lot of retro items featured in the film, including Rocket Poppeteers frozen pops. 7-11 stores will be carrying these all Summer long, along with other retro foods, and the Rocket Poppeteers frozen pops are just 98 cents each! They make a cheap treat when you're on road trips (we picked up some the other day!). You can also unlock an exclusive Rocket Poppeteers digital comic book on www.slurpee.com by redeeming five Slurpee Nation Rewards points.
Four US family members will be running across the US this Summer - the first time in history related folks have done it together - to raise awareness for increased choices in health care to Main Street America. The Run: Moving Natural Medicine Forward [www.therun.org] is an extraordinary 3,250-Mile run across America! Naturopathic Physician Dr. Dennis Godby and team, are setting out to increase awareness, educate and empower people about Natural Medicine: preventing disease, finding and treating the cause of illness, and revitalizing the nation’s health. If you'd like to follow along with their journey (they start July 17th in San Francisco), and find out more about natural health choices, click here.
...I wonder how many pairs of running shoes they will go through on this journey?!
ALO Drink, the #1 ready-to-drink aloe vera beverage in the U.S. natural market, is offering a 50 cent coupon when you "like" ALO on Facebook.
You folks know me and superheroes, so as you can guess I am super de duper excited about the new Captain America movie coming out July 22nd!! Captain America recently launched a digital page that features a FREE exclusive digital Captain America comic, as well as other exclusive Captain America content such as movie stills, trailers, and character art - just click here to get to it.
Laura's Lean Beef is celebrating the start of summer grilling season with a Facebook sweepstakes that runs through August 22, 2011. You could win one of the weekly prize packages, which includes a Big Green Egg ceramic grill and smoker. (Me want! Me want!!) For more information, including rules, and to enter, click here. They also have a printable coupon to save you $1.00 off your purchase of steaks!
Anime Castle will give you 10% off your next order, now through June 30th. Use promo code ACSOHOT at checkout to receive it.
Review: Kusmi Tea Be Cool
Are you a tea fanatic? I'm not a huge tea drinker in the warm Summer months, but sometimes a cup late in the evening is just what I need to relax before bed.
Kusmi Tea recently introduced it's newest blend, called "Be Cool". Kusmi Tea originated in Russia 140 years ago back in 1867. A shift in the world led the original owner to France, where the tea is now made. They sent me on over a box of the Be Cool blend to try.
The ingredients in the Be Cool blend include rose hipseed, apple, verbena leaves, peppermint, anis seeds and liquorice roots. As you can see, there is no caffeine in this tea blend, so if you are avoiding caffeine, you can enjoy this one. The first thing I noticed when I opened the box was the smell of the peppermint! It wasn't strong in that it overwhelmed you, but the right smell so that you know it's there.
Now if you are used to many of the teas you purchase at your local supermarket, you know many of those come in thin paperbags. Kusmi Be Cool comes in little muslin bags, just the way tea used to back at the turn of the century. Some people will say the difference in taste doesn't matter, but I do. ;) It's recommended you let this tea steep (or brew) for at least five minutes.
You can taste the aftertaste of peppermint - it's very refreshing and the perfect light tea for Summer. Then the liquorice hits you, and I'm telling you, this is the perfect tea for hot summer nights. It doesn't feel like you are drinking hot tea because of the ingredients! You probably could make this as a cold tea, but I'm not too much of a fan of iced teas.
A box of 20 Kusmi Tea Be Cool tea bags retails for $15.50. It is also available in loose leaf tins for $19.50. If you're not a fan of herbal teas, Kusmi Tea also has different green teas such as Imperial Label and Rose Green Tea, as well as black teas like Troika and Anastasia. Sign up on their website for the latest news, and you'll receive free shipping on your order of $40 or more!
I received product in order to try it out and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own.
Kusmi Tea recently introduced it's newest blend, called "Be Cool". Kusmi Tea originated in Russia 140 years ago back in 1867. A shift in the world led the original owner to France, where the tea is now made. They sent me on over a box of the Be Cool blend to try.
The ingredients in the Be Cool blend include rose hipseed, apple, verbena leaves, peppermint, anis seeds and liquorice roots. As you can see, there is no caffeine in this tea blend, so if you are avoiding caffeine, you can enjoy this one. The first thing I noticed when I opened the box was the smell of the peppermint! It wasn't strong in that it overwhelmed you, but the right smell so that you know it's there.
Now if you are used to many of the teas you purchase at your local supermarket, you know many of those come in thin paperbags. Kusmi Be Cool comes in little muslin bags, just the way tea used to back at the turn of the century. Some people will say the difference in taste doesn't matter, but I do. ;) It's recommended you let this tea steep (or brew) for at least five minutes.
You can taste the aftertaste of peppermint - it's very refreshing and the perfect light tea for Summer. Then the liquorice hits you, and I'm telling you, this is the perfect tea for hot summer nights. It doesn't feel like you are drinking hot tea because of the ingredients! You probably could make this as a cold tea, but I'm not too much of a fan of iced teas.
A box of 20 Kusmi Tea Be Cool tea bags retails for $15.50. It is also available in loose leaf tins for $19.50. If you're not a fan of herbal teas, Kusmi Tea also has different green teas such as Imperial Label and Rose Green Tea, as well as black teas like Troika and Anastasia. Sign up on their website for the latest news, and you'll receive free shipping on your order of $40 or more!
I received product in order to try it out and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own.
Review & Giveaway: Rock 'N Learn: Sight Words
Rock 'N Learn recently added to their family of learning products with the new DVD Sight Words, which we were lucky enough to receive a copy of it to review.
Sight Words helps kids learn the most frequently used words in the English language - words like up, down, look, me, he, she, go, on, etc. It teaches kids over 60 different words in all. Meant for the Pre-K crowd, and up to those having difficulty in learning to read, this title was created with the help of actual classroom teachers who had a combined experience of over 50 years. It sets the base for helping kids learn to read on their own.
Like all of the Rock 'N Learn titles, Sight Words uses a familiar animated cast with super catchy songs that makes learning information a lot easier to remember! Here's a sneak peek at the title:
Direct link for the feedreaders
As you can see, the word being featured is highlighted on the screen, making it easier for kids to follow along. It includes little sentences that are easy to practice reading, as well as understand the meaning of the words they are reading. "Up" for instance in the video above shows the little alien going up the stairs in the song, and then shows him going "down" the stairs. Included on the Sight Words DVD is a couple of bonus sections that you can access from the main menu - one talking about word shapes, and another one about pronouncing "the", which can be a real trip-up for kids. It runs a total of 50 minutes long.
Sight Words is another great title that I am so pleased to add to our homeschooling arsenal. I suggest following this DVD with the Phonics set, because they accompany each other really well. The DVD includes all the pre-primer Dolch words, as well as the top 20 from Fry's, and others, so kids are learning the words they are supposed to be at this level/age range.
Now my daughter is still a little too young to be reading books on her own, but I know that she's soaking up the information she's learning from this DVD and other titles from the Rock 'N Learn series, and she just loves the songs. We read a lot of books together, and I am keeping my fingers crossed that she's going to be reading on her own as much as I was. So far, so good. (Even though DH's mom is a teacher, he still never really read much as a kid and I have been afraid she'll take after him - I'm doing my best to ensure that won't happen!)
Sight Words, like most of the Rock 'N Learn titles, retails for $19.99, and you can purchase it online via their website, or at quality teaching supply stores and Barnes & Noble. If you're planning to purchase online, use promo codeJQ7711 at checkout to save 25% off your entire order!
Win it! The fabulous folks over at Rock 'Learn are doing it again - one lucky reader will win their choice of DVD or CD from their learning library! To enter, head on over to Rock 'N Learn's website, and tell us which title you'd choose to help your child(ren) learn and get ahead this school year! (You can change your mind if you win)
As always, you can receive extra entries for:
-Subscribing to my feed OR following my blog
-Blogging about this giveaway with a link back
-Tweeting about this giveaway 1X (leave the link in your comment below or @psychotichouse)
Enter to win Rock 'N Learn DVDs http://bit.ly/jAmShu ends 7/2 @psychotichouse
That's four (4) possible entries! Giveaway ends July 2nd at 11:59 PM PST, and please leave your email address in your entry or have it available in your profile. US only, sorry :( Good luck everyone!! :)
I received the DVD mentioned above in order to view and share our opinions of. One winner will win the prize stated above, as fulfilled by the giveaway sponsor.
Sight Words helps kids learn the most frequently used words in the English language - words like up, down, look, me, he, she, go, on, etc. It teaches kids over 60 different words in all. Meant for the Pre-K crowd, and up to those having difficulty in learning to read, this title was created with the help of actual classroom teachers who had a combined experience of over 50 years. It sets the base for helping kids learn to read on their own.
Like all of the Rock 'N Learn titles, Sight Words uses a familiar animated cast with super catchy songs that makes learning information a lot easier to remember! Here's a sneak peek at the title:
Direct link for the feedreaders
As you can see, the word being featured is highlighted on the screen, making it easier for kids to follow along. It includes little sentences that are easy to practice reading, as well as understand the meaning of the words they are reading. "Up" for instance in the video above shows the little alien going up the stairs in the song, and then shows him going "down" the stairs. Included on the Sight Words DVD is a couple of bonus sections that you can access from the main menu - one talking about word shapes, and another one about pronouncing "the", which can be a real trip-up for kids. It runs a total of 50 minutes long.
Sight Words is another great title that I am so pleased to add to our homeschooling arsenal. I suggest following this DVD with the Phonics set, because they accompany each other really well. The DVD includes all the pre-primer Dolch words, as well as the top 20 from Fry's, and others, so kids are learning the words they are supposed to be at this level/age range.
Now my daughter is still a little too young to be reading books on her own, but I know that she's soaking up the information she's learning from this DVD and other titles from the Rock 'N Learn series, and she just loves the songs. We read a lot of books together, and I am keeping my fingers crossed that she's going to be reading on her own as much as I was. So far, so good. (Even though DH's mom is a teacher, he still never really read much as a kid and I have been afraid she'll take after him - I'm doing my best to ensure that won't happen!)
Sight Words, like most of the Rock 'N Learn titles, retails for $19.99, and you can purchase it online via their website, or at quality teaching supply stores and Barnes & Noble. If you're planning to purchase online, use promo codeJQ7711 at checkout to save 25% off your entire order!
Win it! The fabulous folks over at Rock 'Learn are doing it again - one lucky reader will win their choice of DVD or CD from their learning library! To enter, head on over to Rock 'N Learn's website, and tell us which title you'd choose to help your child(ren) learn and get ahead this school year! (You can change your mind if you win)
As always, you can receive extra entries for:
-Subscribing to my feed OR following my blog
-Blogging about this giveaway with a link back
-Tweeting about this giveaway 1X (leave the link in your comment below or @psychotichouse)
Enter to win Rock 'N Learn DVDs http://bit.ly/jAmShu ends 7/2 @psychotichouse
That's four (4) possible entries! Giveaway ends July 2nd at 11:59 PM PST, and please leave your email address in your entry or have it available in your profile. US only, sorry :( Good luck everyone!! :)
I received the DVD mentioned above in order to view and share our opinions of. One winner will win the prize stated above, as fulfilled by the giveaway sponsor.
I Need A Pick Me Up!
Ugh - I am just crawling today now that we are home. I fell asleep on the ferry ride back over - it gave me just enough to get a second wind and get some chores around here done quick, but today is the total opposite. I want to hide in bed and nap all day! lol Can I blame the fact that it is overcast outside?
Wait, that excuse just went down the drain - the sun came out! Hurray! Let's hope it stays and energizes me, because all that laundry is not going to wash itself. (Drat!)
Wait, that excuse just went down the drain - the sun came out! Hurray! Let's hope it stays and energizes me, because all that laundry is not going to wash itself. (Drat!)
22 June 2011
Wordless Wednesday - Our Late Night Visitor
(Sorry, I didn't want to turn on the flash and scare him!)
21 June 2011
Getting Ready To Base Camp, For Beginners
If you're new to the base camping scene, it can be a little overwhelming. The bright side is these days, if you forget something, you're usually too far from a store that you can pick up a forgotten tube of toothpaste or a spare poncho. Base camping basically means turning your campsite into a mini-home outdoors, while spending the day doing fun activities in the area like hiking and fishing.
A few days before you plan to leave on your camping trip, you'll want to make a list of everything you'd like to have with you. Check ahead for the weather - even though it could change, and you really should have a few things for any change in weather such as those ponchos and rain flys for your tent(s), for the most part during the Summer, the weather should stay basically about what it's predicted. After you've created your must-have list (including everything from a tent to your evening snacks), sit down with the family and have your helpers round up everything, and be sure that the list has everything that your family needs.
Next, you'll want to choose your destination. With a bevy of National and State Parks, to campgrounds like KOA, you'll have plenty of choices no matter direction you decide to head out in. During the Summer months, most campgrounds can be very busy, so I suggest that you make reservations for the first few nights. If you are planning a longer trip, you can always decide whether you want to stay at that particular site upon arrival, or if you'd like to move on to another campground. Weekends are usually the busiest, so if you plan to arrive on a Friday or Saturday, reservations are usually a must unless you are camping at a very out of the way place.
After you've decided where you're going, take a moment to Google the park. Some allow pets, some don't - and some campgrounds that are attached to RV parks may be for the 55 and up crowd. You'll also want to find out whether you can bring in firewood, or if there is a ban on bringing wood from outside the park due to pests - or even if there have been problems with bears and cougars recently! Most campgrounds and parks will have all this information available on their website. If a burn ban is in effect, be aware that you'll either want to have an alternative way of cooking besides a campfire, or plan on no-cook meals.
Bring a pop-up trashcan and trashbags. You'll need a place to dump your trash throughout the day, and not all parks will have trashcans very close to the tent sites, simply because of wildlife. Having the pop up bin means you can easily take it to the dumpster or trash can just before dark. It's a convinence item for base camping as it's called, but it comes in handy - especially with kids.
Don't forget your paper map of the area. GPS's can be wrong, and sometimes they don't work. Having a paper map and a compass could help save your life!
A few days before you plan to leave on your camping trip, you'll want to make a list of everything you'd like to have with you. Check ahead for the weather - even though it could change, and you really should have a few things for any change in weather such as those ponchos and rain flys for your tent(s), for the most part during the Summer, the weather should stay basically about what it's predicted. After you've created your must-have list (including everything from a tent to your evening snacks), sit down with the family and have your helpers round up everything, and be sure that the list has everything that your family needs.
Next, you'll want to choose your destination. With a bevy of National and State Parks, to campgrounds like KOA, you'll have plenty of choices no matter direction you decide to head out in. During the Summer months, most campgrounds can be very busy, so I suggest that you make reservations for the first few nights. If you are planning a longer trip, you can always decide whether you want to stay at that particular site upon arrival, or if you'd like to move on to another campground. Weekends are usually the busiest, so if you plan to arrive on a Friday or Saturday, reservations are usually a must unless you are camping at a very out of the way place.
After you've decided where you're going, take a moment to Google the park. Some allow pets, some don't - and some campgrounds that are attached to RV parks may be for the 55 and up crowd. You'll also want to find out whether you can bring in firewood, or if there is a ban on bringing wood from outside the park due to pests - or even if there have been problems with bears and cougars recently! Most campgrounds and parks will have all this information available on their website. If a burn ban is in effect, be aware that you'll either want to have an alternative way of cooking besides a campfire, or plan on no-cook meals.
Bring a pop-up trashcan and trashbags. You'll need a place to dump your trash throughout the day, and not all parks will have trashcans very close to the tent sites, simply because of wildlife. Having the pop up bin means you can easily take it to the dumpster or trash can just before dark. It's a convinence item for base camping as it's called, but it comes in handy - especially with kids.
Don't forget your paper map of the area. GPS's can be wrong, and sometimes they don't work. Having a paper map and a compass could help save your life!
Random Thoughts Tuesday - Live From The Camp Grounds
Thank goodness for Wi-Fi, right? We're short and hopefully, sweet, this week.
The sun is finally starting to come out. I was starting to panic, because it got pretty cool last night as it was. Dh plans to go "fishing" a little later on - and yes, "fishing" in quotations, because I doubt he's going to actually going to catch anything. It's just a man excuse to do, well, nothing. lol
I have base camp envy. Well, some things anyways. One cannot ever have too much camping equipment, right? ;)
We have serious RV envy now too. There's been some nice ones - washer & dryer inside too!
But... now if they tell you you can't discriminate against age, race, etc when it comes to housing right? So how is it they can say some housing can only be for 55 and up?
I found that amusing when we were looking at houses on one of the real estate sites the other night. I mean, really? I totally get that some people don't want to hear kids screaming - and yes, I know mine has very good lungs lol - but why the age limit? (or start?) Since you're technically being age discriminatory anyways, why not just say folks with no kids? Who made 55 the magic number? It could be 52. Or 47 and a half.
Time for a hike!
Pea Soup, Anyone?
You couldn't see more than 6 feet anywhere on the water this morning when we got onto the ferry!
20 June 2011
Local Spotlight: Scenic Beach State Park
We started our day off today just deciding we were going to get into the car and just somewhere, anywhere - so long as it was nature inspired. We headed off North-ish, and along the way we saw several cars pulled off to the side of the road, and serious photographic equipment. You know me, I made DH stop and see what all the commotion was about. ;) Turns out there was a bunch of bald eagles and other wild birds diving around the water! We have lived here just over 5 years now, and that's the most bald eagles we have ever seen in one area! Sadly my pictures didn't come out the greatest -it was early in the morning and very overcast, but here's a couple:
We ended up spending the day at Scenic Beach State Park. Yes, really - it's called that. I guess they weren't feeling very creative that day. ;) It even had a nice playground for the kiddo:
And this fun log home. Turns out Joe Bacher once had his home on this site. He used to own the "Our House" saloon over across the water in Seattle back before the days of Prohibition. The original home burnt to the ground, taking Joe's life with it. The Washington State Parks acquired the land back in 1979. The cabin you see here was built back in the 1930's:
I'm trying to convince DH to build a replica now. It's pretty big inside even if it doesn't look like it. Well, to me, anyways. I think it's at least the size of our home now, which seems big for a log cabin. After you hit some trails:
You can hit that "scenic beach". It's really rocky, not sandy like beaches in other parts of the US. Here our beaches are pretty much all rocky. (Drives me crazy, all beaches should be like South Padre Island, LOL)
Take a look at this absolutely FABULOUS view:
I could get used to waking up to that view. :)
We ended up spending the day at Scenic Beach State Park. Yes, really - it's called that. I guess they weren't feeling very creative that day. ;) It even had a nice playground for the kiddo:
And this fun log home. Turns out Joe Bacher once had his home on this site. He used to own the "Our House" saloon over across the water in Seattle back before the days of Prohibition. The original home burnt to the ground, taking Joe's life with it. The Washington State Parks acquired the land back in 1979. The cabin you see here was built back in the 1930's:
I'm trying to convince DH to build a replica now. It's pretty big inside even if it doesn't look like it. Well, to me, anyways. I think it's at least the size of our home now, which seems big for a log cabin. After you hit some trails:
You can hit that "scenic beach". It's really rocky, not sandy like beaches in other parts of the US. Here our beaches are pretty much all rocky. (Drives me crazy, all beaches should be like South Padre Island, LOL)
Take a look at this absolutely FABULOUS view:
I could get used to waking up to that view. :)
DVD Review: Big Box of Playdates 2
My family and I recently received a copy of the new Nickelodeon DVD box set Big Box of Playdates 2 to review.
Big Box of Playdates 2 is a three DVD box set featuring some of the hottest Nickelodeon shows with the under 5 crowd, including Dora the Explorer, Blue's Clues, Go, Diego, Go!, Yo Gabba Gabba!, The Wonder Pets, and Ni Hao, Kai-lan. The three discs included on this one are We Love Our Friends, Sisters And Brothers, and Summer Vacation.
No, you aren't seeing things: the DVD's included have all been released separately. If you're not new to the Nickelodeon DVD scene, you'll probably want to stay away from this set as you'll end up with doubles. To read my complete review on the Sisters And Brothers DVD included in this set, click here. To reader a complete review on the Summer Vacation DVD, click here. Otherwise, the DVD's are included in a fun box set that's easy to take to the grandparents or perfect for gift giving.
I love the variety of the compilation DVD's from Nickelodeon, because it's just like turning on a morning of Nick - without the sometimes questionable commercials. With twenty different episodes included in this box set, you end up with a good week's worth of shows to watch - which is perfect for when you are on vacation and don't have access to cable.
There are no special features included on any of the DVDs.
Big Box of Playdates 2 will be available this coming Tuesday, June 21st, 2011. Full screen format, the total running time of the three DVDs included runs 417 minutes long. The set is not rated, but safe for all ages, and really meant for the preschool crowd, or ages 2 to 4. The suggested retail price is $36.99, but Amazon has it available on pre-order for just $21.99 as of this posting, which is a steal - you'll save a ton by buying this set instead of each title individually.
I received a copy of this DVD in order to view it and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own.
Big Box of Playdates 2 is a three DVD box set featuring some of the hottest Nickelodeon shows with the under 5 crowd, including Dora the Explorer, Blue's Clues, Go, Diego, Go!, Yo Gabba Gabba!, The Wonder Pets, and Ni Hao, Kai-lan. The three discs included on this one are We Love Our Friends, Sisters And Brothers, and Summer Vacation.
No, you aren't seeing things: the DVD's included have all been released separately. If you're not new to the Nickelodeon DVD scene, you'll probably want to stay away from this set as you'll end up with doubles. To read my complete review on the Sisters And Brothers DVD included in this set, click here. To reader a complete review on the Summer Vacation DVD, click here. Otherwise, the DVD's are included in a fun box set that's easy to take to the grandparents or perfect for gift giving.
I love the variety of the compilation DVD's from Nickelodeon, because it's just like turning on a morning of Nick - without the sometimes questionable commercials. With twenty different episodes included in this box set, you end up with a good week's worth of shows to watch - which is perfect for when you are on vacation and don't have access to cable.
There are no special features included on any of the DVDs.
Big Box of Playdates 2 will be available this coming Tuesday, June 21st, 2011. Full screen format, the total running time of the three DVDs included runs 417 minutes long. The set is not rated, but safe for all ages, and really meant for the preschool crowd, or ages 2 to 4. The suggested retail price is $36.99, but Amazon has it available on pre-order for just $21.99 as of this posting, which is a steal - you'll save a ton by buying this set instead of each title individually.
I received a copy of this DVD in order to view it and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own.
Time For Some Menu Planning Monday
Hello, Summer? Are you there? lol It looks like another week of mostly 60's here. It is seriously putting a damper on me having DH do a lot of grilling out. :(
I purchased some of the Glad plastic ovenware so I can pre-cook some casseroles for busy nights this Summer. I really don't like plastic, but I don't like leaving my glass containers in the freezer for more than 2-3 days at a time, so I figured I'd try it out.
And twice in one week that I don't have to cook, it's like a holiday week for me! I better enjoy it while it lasts. ;)
Monday: dinner out
Tuesday: grilled cheese, fruit & veggie kabobs
Wednesday: Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs, roasted veggie medley
Thursday: Honey Chicken & pineapple, rice
Friday: attending a birthday party so dinner out
Saturday: Crock Pot Chicken Adobo
Sunday: recipe of the week
Check out Organizing Junkie for other great Menu Plans!
19 June 2011
DVD Review: Big Time Rush: Season One, Volume Two
My family and I recently received a copy of the new DVD Big Time Rush: Season One, Volume Two to review.
Big Time Rush: Season One, Volume Two picks up mid-season, where Gustavo sets up an important interview with a big-time blogger named Deke. His idea to get the band some good publicity doesn't exactly go as planned, when the boys end up kidnapping Deke. (LOL!!) This kicks off sort of a theme for the rest of the season, where things don't always quite go as planned, and the boys may have to work a little harder than expected. Gustavo ends up moving in with the boys, they have to find perfect dates for a big dance at school, Hollywood Fever hits the band, and they get to make their first music video. Season two ends as a TV movie with the boys, on the eve of the album release, being told they aren't what the record company wants. Determined to prove them wrong, the guys return home to Minnesota and plan a big concert with Gustavo's help.
Big Time Rush definitely caters to the 'tween girls crowd, and it's easy to see why - you have the combination of cute boys, fun pop music, and some seriously funny scenes that even parents can't resist laughing at. The final seven episodes of this first season includes some more great guest episodes including Jordin Sparks, Ed Begley Jr, and of all the folks - Fabio (LOL!!!).
Big Time Rush: Season One, Volume Two does contain a few bonus features including a behind the scenes look at the show, where you'll ride to the mansion and some other fun tidbits. It also includes the pilot episode to the new Nickelodeon show House of Anubis.
Big Time Rush: Season One, Volume Two will be released this Tuesday, June 21st, 2011. The two disc DVD set is not rated (I rate it PG) and is full screen format, with a total running time of 192 minutes long. The suggested retail price is $19.99, but Amazon has it available for $13.99 as of this posting. (Netflix users: this DVD set is currently available to add to your DVD queue)
You know the drill: I received a copy of this DVD in order to view it and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own.
Big Time Rush: Season One, Volume Two picks up mid-season, where Gustavo sets up an important interview with a big-time blogger named Deke. His idea to get the band some good publicity doesn't exactly go as planned, when the boys end up kidnapping Deke. (LOL!!) This kicks off sort of a theme for the rest of the season, where things don't always quite go as planned, and the boys may have to work a little harder than expected. Gustavo ends up moving in with the boys, they have to find perfect dates for a big dance at school, Hollywood Fever hits the band, and they get to make their first music video. Season two ends as a TV movie with the boys, on the eve of the album release, being told they aren't what the record company wants. Determined to prove them wrong, the guys return home to Minnesota and plan a big concert with Gustavo's help.
Big Time Rush definitely caters to the 'tween girls crowd, and it's easy to see why - you have the combination of cute boys, fun pop music, and some seriously funny scenes that even parents can't resist laughing at. The final seven episodes of this first season includes some more great guest episodes including Jordin Sparks, Ed Begley Jr, and of all the folks - Fabio (LOL!!!).
Big Time Rush: Season One, Volume Two does contain a few bonus features including a behind the scenes look at the show, where you'll ride to the mansion and some other fun tidbits. It also includes the pilot episode to the new Nickelodeon show House of Anubis.
Big Time Rush: Season One, Volume Two will be released this Tuesday, June 21st, 2011. The two disc DVD set is not rated (I rate it PG) and is full screen format, with a total running time of 192 minutes long. The suggested retail price is $19.99, but Amazon has it available for $13.99 as of this posting. (Netflix users: this DVD set is currently available to add to your DVD queue)
You know the drill: I received a copy of this DVD in order to view it and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own.
Happy Daddy's Day!
To all the Dads out there, Happy Father's Day! My DH has the blessing of having both his birthday and Daddy's Day today, so he's being super spoiled. ;) It's almost 10 AM, and he's still asleep! We're about to go wake him up though, with some jumping on the bed! LOL
18 June 2011
DVD Review: Nickelodeon - Summer Vacation
My family and I recently received a copy of the new Nickelodeon DVD Summer Vacation to review.
Summer Vacation is a compilation DVD, featuring some of the hottest Nickelodeon shows with the under 5 crowd. Just in time for summer vacation to literally start, it contains six episodes with summer-y and vacation themes:
Dora The Explorer - "Baby Crab": Dora and Boots are visiting the beach when their day turns into an adventure as they help Baby Crab take a pretty shell necklace home to Crab Island and his mother.
Go, Diego, Go! - "Panchita the Prairie Dog" Diego and his cousin Alicia are visiting Rescue Ranch (wait, they came to our house? lol) when they meet a lovely little prairie dog named Panchita. She's on the hunt for a grassy knoll perfect for her family, and needs their help!
Wonder Pets! - "Save The Hermit Crab", "Save The Dolphin": This "double" story episode has the Wonder Pets gang taking a break from their fabulous vacation in Cancun to help a Hermit Crab find a new "home" once he's outgrown his shell. Then it's off on a sailing trip to Hawaii to help save a young dolphin in trouble!
Blue's Clues - "Blue's Big Car Trip": Help Joe find the clues and play the games to find out where Blue is going on her car trip! You'll have to help him remember how to stay safe in the car, too.
Yo Gabba Gabba! - "Summer": It's time for a pool party and other fun activities as everyone in Gabba Land is singing and dancing the time away!
Ni Hao, Kai-lan - "The Hula Duck Dance Party": There's a party over the the Hula Duck's Island beach house, where there's music and dancing games - but Tolee feels left out. It's up to Kai-lan and her friends to figure out a new way to play, so Tolee can take part.
All of the episodes have been previously aired, and there are no special features included on this DVD. I love the compilation DVD's though, because it's just like turning on a morning of Nick - without the sometimes questionable commercials. Variety on rainy days can be a saving grace! (especially when the DVD contains two of my daughter's favorite shows - Dora and Yo Gabba Gabba!)
Summer Vacation will be released this Tuesday, June 21st. Full screen format, the total running time is 147 minutes long. It is not rated, but geared towards the preschool crowd, and most of the episodes will bore the older crowd (over the age of 4) quick - especially the Wonder Pets! episode. The suggested retail price is $16.99, but Amazon has it available for $12.99 as of this posting. (Netflix users: this title is not appearing on the Netflix site as of this posting.)
I received a copy of this DVD in order to view it and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own.
Summer Vacation is a compilation DVD, featuring some of the hottest Nickelodeon shows with the under 5 crowd. Just in time for summer vacation to literally start, it contains six episodes with summer-y and vacation themes:
Dora The Explorer - "Baby Crab": Dora and Boots are visiting the beach when their day turns into an adventure as they help Baby Crab take a pretty shell necklace home to Crab Island and his mother.
Go, Diego, Go! - "Panchita the Prairie Dog" Diego and his cousin Alicia are visiting Rescue Ranch (wait, they came to our house? lol) when they meet a lovely little prairie dog named Panchita. She's on the hunt for a grassy knoll perfect for her family, and needs their help!
Wonder Pets! - "Save The Hermit Crab", "Save The Dolphin": This "double" story episode has the Wonder Pets gang taking a break from their fabulous vacation in Cancun to help a Hermit Crab find a new "home" once he's outgrown his shell. Then it's off on a sailing trip to Hawaii to help save a young dolphin in trouble!
Blue's Clues - "Blue's Big Car Trip": Help Joe find the clues and play the games to find out where Blue is going on her car trip! You'll have to help him remember how to stay safe in the car, too.
Yo Gabba Gabba! - "Summer": It's time for a pool party and other fun activities as everyone in Gabba Land is singing and dancing the time away!
Ni Hao, Kai-lan - "The Hula Duck Dance Party": There's a party over the the Hula Duck's Island beach house, where there's music and dancing games - but Tolee feels left out. It's up to Kai-lan and her friends to figure out a new way to play, so Tolee can take part.
All of the episodes have been previously aired, and there are no special features included on this DVD. I love the compilation DVD's though, because it's just like turning on a morning of Nick - without the sometimes questionable commercials. Variety on rainy days can be a saving grace! (especially when the DVD contains two of my daughter's favorite shows - Dora and Yo Gabba Gabba!)
Summer Vacation will be released this Tuesday, June 21st. Full screen format, the total running time is 147 minutes long. It is not rated, but geared towards the preschool crowd, and most of the episodes will bore the older crowd (over the age of 4) quick - especially the Wonder Pets! episode. The suggested retail price is $16.99, but Amazon has it available for $12.99 as of this posting. (Netflix users: this title is not appearing on the Netflix site as of this posting.)
I received a copy of this DVD in order to view it and share my thoughts on it. All opinions are my own.
Free National Parks Admission June 21, 2011!
This Tuesday, June 21st, many National Parks will be FREE to get into! I know a lot of folks work during the week, but there's nothing that says you can't hop into the car when you get home and go for a short hike. Pack a picnic, grab the dog leash, disconnect from technology, and walk for an hour or two!
For my Washington folks, the following parks are included:
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
Lewis & Clark National Historical Park
Mount Rainier National Park
Olympic National Park
Whitman Mission National Historic Site
Olympic National Park is absolutely gorgeous - as are all of the other ones, of course. Alas, we already made plans to be camping:
(Not in the yard like that photo though lol) Or we'd be taking advantage of this deal for sure! (WAH! If only I had known about it a week ago!)
Don't forget that the Great American Backyard Campout is coming up one week from today! Dust off those tents and freshen up those sleeping bags!
For my Washington folks, the following parks are included:
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
Lewis & Clark National Historical Park
Mount Rainier National Park
Olympic National Park
Whitman Mission National Historic Site
Olympic National Park is absolutely gorgeous - as are all of the other ones, of course. Alas, we already made plans to be camping:
(Not in the yard like that photo though lol) Or we'd be taking advantage of this deal for sure! (WAH! If only I had known about it a week ago!)
Don't forget that the Great American Backyard Campout is coming up one week from today! Dust off those tents and freshen up those sleeping bags!
Isn't It Ironic...
Don'tcha think?
For some unknown reason, that song just popped into my head right now, so I thought I'd share the joy.
You're welcome.
It's is June 18th... and I am tempted to start a fire, it's that cool in here. It's JUNE! JUNE, Mother Nature - I don't live in the upper Northwest Territory, I'm not supposed to be thinking about a fire inside this time of year.
Geesh.
To add to my happiness, it's been raining, so painting the shed just got pushed back. Again. Yes, that pounding you hear is my head going against the wall because...
T less than 30 days until the in-laws invasion.
My to-do list keeps growing, in order to be ready for all these extra people in my home (his family + my family + of course, us!), and I feel like I am procrastinating, since the only project off our list of many that has been done now is the hallway flooring. And then that's not 100%, since DH has yet to put the trim back on the wall. Yikes!
The problem is that half of the projects we either need it to be dry (such as painting the shed), sunlight to see what we are doing, or I have to wait until the last minute - because deep cleaning needs to be done here every week anyways. OK, and the other half of the problem IS procrastination.
As much as I keep hoping that they change their mind and decide not to come - I can't help but have a small coronary at the thought of 10+ people in my teeny tiny home - most of the projects need to be done regardless. It's not like we want to fall through in the bathroom floor, and the deck needs to be stained again before the wood starts to rot.
It would be lovely if we could finish a project without another project cropping up while we were working on the first project.
Oh, and apparently we now live next to a strip bar, because all we are hearing lately is the THUMP THUMP THUMP-DE-THUMP pounding noise from their stereo, and I swear to you, it's sounds like strip club music. I think they should share the tips, don't you? ;) (Payback bites - they'll be treating to their fair share of Mariachi music in just a few weeks - bwhahaaa!)
For some unknown reason, that song just popped into my head right now, so I thought I'd share the joy.
You're welcome.
It's is June 18th... and I am tempted to start a fire, it's that cool in here. It's JUNE! JUNE, Mother Nature - I don't live in the upper Northwest Territory, I'm not supposed to be thinking about a fire inside this time of year.
Geesh.
To add to my happiness, it's been raining, so painting the shed just got pushed back. Again. Yes, that pounding you hear is my head going against the wall because...
T less than 30 days until the in-laws invasion.
My to-do list keeps growing, in order to be ready for all these extra people in my home (his family + my family + of course, us!), and I feel like I am procrastinating, since the only project off our list of many that has been done now is the hallway flooring. And then that's not 100%, since DH has yet to put the trim back on the wall. Yikes!
The problem is that half of the projects we either need it to be dry (such as painting the shed), sunlight to see what we are doing, or I have to wait until the last minute - because deep cleaning needs to be done here every week anyways. OK, and the other half of the problem IS procrastination.
As much as I keep hoping that they change their mind and decide not to come - I can't help but have a small coronary at the thought of 10+ people in my teeny tiny home - most of the projects need to be done regardless. It's not like we want to fall through in the bathroom floor, and the deck needs to be stained again before the wood starts to rot.
It would be lovely if we could finish a project without another project cropping up while we were working on the first project.
Oh, and apparently we now live next to a strip bar, because all we are hearing lately is the THUMP THUMP THUMP-DE-THUMP pounding noise from their stereo, and I swear to you, it's sounds like strip club music. I think they should share the tips, don't you? ;) (Payback bites - they'll be treating to their fair share of Mariachi music in just a few weeks - bwhahaaa!)
17 June 2011
Local Spotlight: Manchester State Park
One of our absolute favorite places to hike close by is Manchester State Park. It's a 111 acre park where you can go for day hikes, picnics, and camp overnight for both tent camping and RVs. Some parks can be a little, well, less unkempt - Manchester State Park is really a jewel. It's pristine, from the showers to the lack of trash you'll see on the trails. It's close enough to the water that we can visit the beach when we come out of the wooded trails:
And you can usually see the Seattle-Manchester ferry going towards the docks:
The trees are AMAZING - it's incredible to look up and see these leafy canopies:
But you have to keep your senses about you, because not only do you have to be worried about wildlife like bears, but there are also Tsunami signs near the beach:
Manchester State Park actually used to be part of the Naval base, and "Middle Point" was fort over in the Puget Sound back in the late 1800's/early 1900's. The land was acquired back in 1982 to help Fort Ward defend the shipyard across the water in Bremerton. There are buildings throughout the park that used to be part of this defense. The building I'm shown you here that's now a covered picnic shelter actually used to be a torpedo storehouse. It was used to store mines too for an underwater mine field that they had over in the sound:
It's just absolutely beautiful to look at the architecture:
and you can see there was a nice fireplace in here too:
Next time we visit, I'll try to get more pictures of the historical buildings - on our last trip there this week, there was several field trips going on and it was an insane asylum!
And you can usually see the Seattle-Manchester ferry going towards the docks:
The trees are AMAZING - it's incredible to look up and see these leafy canopies:
But you have to keep your senses about you, because not only do you have to be worried about wildlife like bears, but there are also Tsunami signs near the beach:
Manchester State Park actually used to be part of the Naval base, and "Middle Point" was fort over in the Puget Sound back in the late 1800's/early 1900's. The land was acquired back in 1982 to help Fort Ward defend the shipyard across the water in Bremerton. There are buildings throughout the park that used to be part of this defense. The building I'm shown you here that's now a covered picnic shelter actually used to be a torpedo storehouse. It was used to store mines too for an underwater mine field that they had over in the sound:
It's just absolutely beautiful to look at the architecture:
and you can see there was a nice fireplace in here too:
Next time we visit, I'll try to get more pictures of the historical buildings - on our last trip there this week, there was several field trips going on and it was an insane asylum!
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