Simply Chic and Eye Candy– Get Organized with Style!
August 8, 2008
Just in time for my personal back to school organizing, I was able to try out the most incredible organizing products I have seen in a long time. The Simply Chic and Eye Candy collections are by far my favorites when it comes to getting myself organized. (And let’s face it, as a board member on two PTA boards, I need all the help I can get!)
If you know me, you know that I am not only not the most organized person you will meet, I am probably one of the most dis-organized people you will come across. I try! I really do. But I haven’t found anything that meets my need and is something that I would want to use. Oh, I have bought more than my share to get me there, but nothing has worked. With these products, I have found the secret to getting organized. I need to make it fun!
I had the best time getting my work papers organized, my PTA forms filed and my calendar filled in. I even used the sticky notes for things I need to remember at meetings and the flag stickies to make notes of what pages (and where) I need to sign when it comes to back to school papers.
You can believe that when I pulled out my super organized folders and calendar and the first PTA board meeting, those who knew me nearly fell on the floor in shock. (Totally worth it!) In fact, they were asking me where I got them. (Organized and a trend setter. Does it get better for back to school?)
Carolina Pad and Paper and Jacqueline Savage McFee have introduced two new lines of products to make getting organized fun, cool and chic with organizational tools that actually have personality and style. Now, I am definitely the technology mom who loves to have the latest gadgets for my computer and phone, but in my heart, I still love the simplicity of sticky notes, folders, binders and paper calendars that I can stuff in my bag or purse to keep the never ending flow of paperwork organized. I was thrilled to hear that Mom Central teamed up with Jackie and Carolina Pad and Paper to promote the two incredibly beautiful new lines of paper and organizational products to help moms like me get organized in style. (Did I mention chic and fun?)
When I was sent me a box of several new Simply Chic and Eye Candy products courtesy of Mom Central, I nearly passed out with glee over the contents– including a note pad, a datebook, magnets, a journal, and organizational folders (a regular folder and my all time favorite accordian style folder as well as a super chic mouse pad. Even their magnets are hip. The pens? I am totally not loaning out at meetings or to friends. They are now my favorite pens and I am going to be greedy with them. All of these come in fun and (yes, I will say it) sassy designs and stylishly chic colors. These totally fit my personality! (Sadly, they also seem to be just as much fun to my daughter who was sad that the box was not for her. Not this time! I get to be the one with the fun back to school folders.) However, these incredible products are available at Wal-Mart so I can actually be nice and share with my daughter. Rather, I can buy her her own set of stylish back to school products because this mom is going to get herself organized first!
Simply Chic is the more subdued of the two new designs. It’s black. It’s simple. And it is very chic. The Eye Candy designs are more fun and playful with bright colors and fun designs. Both are a perfect mix of class and sass.
In addition, the team is currently running a “Glam Your Office Makeover Contest.” To help women and teens get organized in style, submit your best organizational tip by visiting Carolina Pad and Paper. The 10 most original and creative entries will be featured on the Carolina Pad and Paper Web site’s “Get Organized” page, and the winners will receive:
Complete Eye Candy or Simply Chic office system
$100 gift card
1000 Best Quick and Easy Organizing Secrets by Jamie Novak
This is a win-win for you because I guarantee once you see these products, you will not only enter to win, but will probably immediately run out to purchase your own! (Because like I said before, I am not sharing mine!)
When my daughter first started to watch Phineas and Ferb, I totally did not get it. (Still not loving Perry the Platypus.) But as summer began to drag on, I would sit and watch the show with her. Now? She is the one who will get up in the middle of an episode if she needs to and I am the one laughing and not missing the rest of it. Oh how things change.
The show really is hilarious. It is about two brothers who manage to get into the most outrageous situations and their sister is always trying to bust them on it. But, as in life, the “mess” is cleaned up long before the parents arrive on the scene. The frustration of their older sister Candace, voiced by Ashley Tisdale, is hilarious to watch.
Nothing is impossible in the wacky, wonderful world of Phineas
and Ferb: TheFast and thePhineas which was released from Disney DVD on July 29from Walt Disney Studios Home
Entertainment.
In this hilarious animated series created by Dan Povenmire (”Family Guy”) and Jeff
“Swampy” Marsh (”The Simpsons”), you will laugh along with two of Disney Channel’s fastest rising
stars, Phineas and Ferb, in some of their most outrageous and inspired animated adventures, that
includes an exclusive, never-before-seen two-part bonus episode and awesome new set-top games!
Every over-the-top episode is jam-packed with the pair’s trademark crazy schemes, hare-brained ideas
and amazing escapades – set to unforgettably goofy original songs.
With 104 days of summer, Phineas and Ferb are determined to make the most of each and and every
day – like souping up the car and entering it into the biggest race of the year, inventing a time machine or
directing a smash hit movie! Now, the only limit to their world is their own wild imaginations. With their
unwilling older sister Candace and their pet platypus (a.k.a. secret “Agent P”) on board, they embark on
a series of astonishing exploits—and always make it home in time for dinner.
See America’s favorite stepbrothers make the seemingly impossible…totally possible!
BONUS FEATURES
In addition to an all new, two-part adventure, Phineas and Ferb: TheFast and thePhineas is packed with bonus features including: • Phineas and Ferb’s Homemade Tree Shade Arcade (Set-Top Games) –“MOM!!! Phineas and Ferb made a Homemade Tree Shade Arcade!!!” Oh yes they did! What else for two mad cool adventurers to do with a humdrum summer day? With a little elbow grease and a lot of ingenuity, they’ve converted their backyard into an awesome arcade, complete with four custom-designed games, and everyone is invited to join the wacky fun!! And don’t forget to watch out for Perry— he’s undercover! •Original Pitch by Dan Povenmire –Go behind the scenes in this unique opportunity to witness the creator of Phineas and Ferb (and voice of Dr. Doofenshmirtz) Dan Povenmire during his original pitch for the show, which (he swears it’s true) is loosely based on his own childhood.
I must warn you, though, the theme song? It will totally stay stuck in your head for days. Which, thankfully it is not awful. But you will be singing it in the shower. I am just saying.
I put this on my must-have list for anyone with kids who have a sense of humor and especially a brother or sister who frustrates them to no end. But mainly, I just enjoy how funny the show is. A great buy!
I will admit it. My kids have me addicted to Wizards of Waverly Place. I watch it right along with them. And enjoy it. (Yes, I know the Disney line up better than they do!) Now, on DVD you can buy Wizards of Waverly Place: Wizard School. I have to tell you, I do love Alex (the daughter played by Selena Gomez. She reminds me a bit too much of myself at that age.
This DVD comes with four episodes. FOUR! That is like a hundred years in “getting stuff done while the kids watch” it time.
Here is a synopsis of the DVD.
What’s it like to suddenly discover that you have the
most awesome magical powers ever?
Alex Russo and her brothers Justin and Max suddenly go from being your average, ordinary
kids to discovering their family’s astonishing secret—they are wizards in training! Navigating the unpredictable politics of Wizards’ School, trying to control amazing new powers and fixing
magic spells gone awry are just part of everyday life for these teenagers. With a red-hot young
cast that includes Selena Gomez (guest appearances on Hannah Montana and The Suite Life
of Zack & Cody), David Henrie (guest appearances on That’s So Raven and How I Met Your
Mother) and Jake T. Austin (Johnny Kapahala), as well as Maria Canals-Barrera and David
DeLuise, Wizards of Waverly Place conjures up nonstop laughs as these three siblings find
themselves up to their necks in the art of wizardry.
BONUS FEATURE
Work It Like A Wizard! – The coolest kids on TV, Selena Gomez, David Henrie, & Jake T.
Austin, take advantage of a little Disney Channel magic to spirit viewers off on a magic carpet
ride to their absolute favorite places in Los Angeles
I have seen this DVD several times and highly recommend it. Yes, even to adults. My kids and I made a movie night of it and had a blast.
Check it out! It is a great family show with fun themes and a terrific way to let your kids’ imaginations run wild. I am constantly asked now what “spell” would be my favorite.
So many milestone celebrations feature photos and music. Everyone enjoys seeing a photo slide show set to music.
I am big on taking pictures. Of the kids, the world around me, of the kids. (Though without a camera since mine has met its untimely death), I am relying on the kindness of other’s photostreams.) There have been many times I have seen amazing slide shows and wished I could do something like that. I want to be able to send a DVD of pictures to my Dad and my sister. They don’t live close and it would be nice to share the big moments with them.
Now, I know just how to share these moments. Kodak has introduced the Kodak Picture Movie DVD.
And trust me when I say, it is so easy to do. If you go to a Kodak Picture Movie DVD kiosk in select CVS Pharmacies, you simply insert the medium (CD, memory card, memory stick, USB flash drive) with your pictures on it and just follow the simple instructions. It is so easy *I* can do it!
You can choose up to 60 photos and arrange them on the touch screen in any order
Choose title words or a brief opening description
Choose a song from one of the popular songs in their database from categories such as energetic, happy, inspirational, relaxing and romantic.
The DVD is created and your pictures are set to music with transitions
That’s it! Now, you know you can do that! I have smart readers. You are one of them!
The Kodak Picture Movie DVD is a quick and easy way to bring your pictures to life with music and share with others.
From July 27-August 2, 2008, when you order a DVD, you’ll get the same value back in “extra bucks” that can be used towards anything at CVS/pharmacy.
DVDs are $14.99 each after the promotion is over. (But that is still so worth it for the ease of creating something so wonderful to share with family and friends!)
I know that bloggers are huge on picture taking. This takes it one step further. Try it out. What do you have to lose?
Nothing. And so much to gain! I am glad I did it. My family will be, too.
Try it and let me know how you like it. I think it is a great idea and a great service.
I am no stranger to Game Stop. In fact, when my kids start in about wanting the latest and greatest, that is out first stop. I joke that GameStop is a second house of worship for my children. (And they range in age from 7-15.) We love GameStop not only because they have an amazing selection and great prices, but it their customer service is outstanding.
Shortly after the Nintendo DS lite was released, I went to GameStop to purchase one for my son. For some reason, it was defective (through no fault of the store), so I called the store and was told to come back immediately and they would fix the situation. Not only did the manager himself help me, he asked for my permission to open it and make sure it was working. Then, not only did he guarantee that it worked, he gave me a discount of a game for my troubles. What other store does that? None that I know of.
So when MomCentral asked if I would like to do a review of GameStop, I couldn’t answer them quickly enough to please pick me and make me the hero of my kids.
I went to a GameStop where we don’t usually shop.I parked the car and stood a store away and sent in my son.He is almost 15 but could definitely pass for 17.I told him to go in and pick out a rated M (for Mature) game and try to buy it.He went in, looked around, chose a rated M game and went to the counter to buy it.The salesperson would not sell it to him.He said it contained mature content and he was not going to sell it to him.I watched from outside and came in about that time.
The salesman was so kind to explain to me about the game and that he was not trying to be rude but that it was their policy to not sell games with that rating to minors.I just smiled knowing that would be exactly what would happen.Then, we I told him that I would buy it, he went on to explain to me in great detail why the game received a Mature rating and wanted me to be quite sure that I understood what all was in the game that could be inappropriate.You have no idea how much this mom appreciates that.
GameStop is more than a place to buy the latest releases as well as buy and sell used games, it is a store that insists that they are doing right by the people who shop there.I would never hesitate to send any of my children into GameStop to buy a game because I know that without my presence, there is no way they will come out of there with an inappropriate game.
They really saved me when I returned from a recent business trip where I forgot to pick up “souvenirs” for the kids. Before they could even begin to pout or gripe, I pulled out a GameStop gift card and all was forgiven. It was a beautiful moment.
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This review brought to you courtesy of a partnership with MomCentral.
The Sony Digital Reader is the new love of my life
Before I tell you about my awesome Sony reader, I have a confession to make. I am completely in love with Sony and their products. I have had Sony cameras for years. And until mine recently met an untimely death when meeting the concrete sidewalk, I carried my camera with me every where. So when I was approached to review the Sony Reader, I jumped at this amazing opportunity.
Two of my favorite things combined into one: A Sony product and reading. I imagine this must be a bit of what heaven would be like for me.
The Sony Reader is a wonderful Digital Reader. In fact, one I have had my eye on for quite a while. And, yes, when it showed up on my doorstep I did do a happy dance. I immediately ran to my laptop to hook it up and see what wonderful new reads I could download. Not only did I get 100 free classics with my Reader, I was able to download some of the most popular new releases (as well as some that have been out for a while).
The new Reader (model PRS-505) features a svelte body design and is available in two colors - silver and dark blue. I received the very stylish and cool silver model complete with a beautiful brown leather cover to protect it. Which is definitely a good thing seeing as I have stashed it in my purse many times as I race out the door to many appointments. The controls mimic paper page turns and allow for quick, intuitive navigation. I have never felt as if I had to wait to turn to the next page. In fact, when I am reading in bed (or in tight quarters such as on an airplane) it is actually much easier to navigate through the pages than a paper book would be. With just a touch of a button, the page is turned silently (a bonus when your spouse is a light sleeper) and swiftly. The electronic display delivers fast response and a higher contrast ratio for easy reading even in bright sunshine. By the same token, when reading at night, the display does not have any glare when using a book light. (The Reader is not back-lit but that actually works in its favor as it saves a lot in battery life. I like knowing my battery will last longer not to mention, the Reader is very easy to use with a book light.)
In my excitement to download as many books as I could and to have as many choices possible at my fingertips, I worried that I would run out of room on my reader. I had no need to worry. With the capacity to store up to 160 typical eBooks, the Reader has become my own personal mobile library. Let me tell you something, with as many books as I read, this has been the perfect solution for me. I have as many books at my fingertips as I could possibly read. And, yes, I still find myself downloading even more every week.
But how long can you read before recharging? A very long time. In fact, many books worth of reading.
A single battery charge provides up to 7,500 pages of continuous reading. The option to magnify the text in three sizes offers a distinct advantage for sight-impaired readers. Switching the Reader to landscape mode offers yet another level of magnification as well as a wider page view.
Even more than books, the Sony Reader can also store and display personal and business documents in Adobe PDF format (best when formatted for the Reader’s display), RTF, text and JPEG images. Bliss!
It came in handy when I recently flew across the country. When I fly, I always carry a book with me. Being such a fast reader, I usually finish at least one book (usually two) on a trip and end up toting books that I have already read for the duration of the trip. This time, I was able to read as much as I wanted to knowing that I had several other books waiting for me when I completed one. And I didn’t have to carry anything extra!
The best sales pitch for the Sony Reader, is the Reader itself. On each flight my seat mates asked what it was and asked if they could check it out. On one flight (as we sat at the gate for over an hour) even a flight attendant stopped by and asked if she could see it and browse through its features. Of course I agreed. Not only were they impressed, the each asked where they, too, could purchase one. The Reader really does sell itself.
Now that I have had it and read through several books, I cannot imagine not having it with me everywhere I go. It has become as attached to me as my 7 year old daughter!
If you read a lot and want to keep at least one book with you at all times as I do, this is most definitely the product for you. I am absolutely in love with mine. If you are interested, be sure to visit the Sony Store and purchase your own. If you are not totally sold by now, check out the titles in the eBook store. That will surely seal the deal for you. I guarantee you, too, will love yours as much as I love mine.
One of my goals lately is to try to be more eco-friendly. Recycle what can be recycled. Use less. Rinse. Repeat. But with 3 kids, sometimes it can be hard. However, I do have them trained with soda cans, school papers and boxes. While trying to to instill how recycling helps the environment, I guess I never really thought about what actually happens once the recycling truck takes away our containers and recycled goods. (I am just thankful they are gone and I am teaching my kids their part in helping to be more eco-friendly.)
Enter Preserve and Recycline, an innovative, green home products company, which closes the recycling cycle.
The Preserve line takes recycled BPA and phthalate-free plastic, including yogurt cups, and re-recycles them into stylish, affordable, and eco-friendly toothbrushes. And when it’s time to get new toothbrushes for the family, you can print out a pre-paid postage label from Recycline’s website, send the used toothbrushes back to them and the plastic will live on as a deck, picnic table, or boardwalk. (How cool is that?!) The line also includes Preserve Jr. toothbrushes for kids, with animal colors and shapes, making it easy for us to get an early start when it comes to promoting eco-friendly habits. (Because we all know that healthy habits have everything to do with how cute your toothbrush and/or products are. At least according to my 7 year old daughter.)
When I was sent a Recycline Preserve Toothbrush, I was eager to try it. I am very picky about my toothbrushes. Truth is, I love it. The bonus? It will be recycled when I am finished using it. (After 3 months- or strep throat- according to my dentist.)
Also known as “the toothbrush made from yogurt cups,” the Preserve Toothbrush was designed by dentists and engineers to be an innovation in both oral care and eco-friendliness.
The dentist-recommended 45° curved handle and soft bristles guarantee a thorough and even cleaning of your teeth. Available in seven vivid colors, the handle is made from recycled plastic, including Stonyfield Farm® yogurt cups, meaning that fewer natural resources are used to get your teeth sparkling. Combine that with the Preserve’s stylish design and reusable travel case and you’re not only living green, you’re living happy.
When it is time to replace your toothbrush (dentists recommend switching it every three months) send the toothbrush and case back to Preserve using our postage-paid label to be re-processed into plastic lumber for picnic tables, boardwalks and decks.
Features:
•
Handle is made from 100% recycled plastic, including Stonyfield Farm® yogurt cups
•
Curved, easy to grip handle makes it easy to reach every part of your teeth and gums
•
Soft, virgin nylon bristles placed in a tri-level configuration with softer outer rows to protect your gums and tooth enamel
•
Available in Medium, Soft, and Ultrasoft
Interested? (Yes, you are as a matter of fact.) Preserve toothbrushes are available at Target stores nationwide for only $2.04 and I have coupons for you! Just go to this site and get your own Recycline Preserve toothbrush coupon and try this bad boy out. Your teeth will thank you. So will the environment.
If you are interested in how all of this works, check out this really informative (and cool!) video on how they do it all. Education is key to clean teeth. Or not. But the video is interesting on Recycline and how it came about and what it is all about.
I am a security freak. Just ask my family. When it comes to locks, we rival Fort Knox. The only problem with that is when I have to hand out keys to kids, neighbors etc. I just don’t like doing that! I want to know who has access and when. Throughout the course of a week, my house needs to be accessed by more than just my husband and myself. I have to consider my kids and in case of emergency, my friends. Sometimes even babysitters or family. It is just not in me to make that many keys. In comes Schlage Locks.
Schlage Locks has recently developed an ingenious solution to this problem by creating an electronic keypad lock and deadbolt for our homes. (Finally! A company that gets me.) They keypad allows access via a fou-digit code that can be customized so members of your family and friends can all access your home using different codes. You know that means? My kids can come up with their own code that they won’t forget! That is a bonus in my book. You have no idea how many times I get the phone call asking what the code is for the security system or the garage etc. This way, each person has their own personalized code. Simplicity (and yet safety) at its finest! Each lock comes with the ability for up to 19 different codes. And– this is where my paranoia is put at ease–you can disable a code whenever you want to. So, say you have to give your code to Uncle Earl when he comes to visit but you certainly do not want him to come over whenever he wants to so you just disable his code when he leaves and it no longer works. Uncle Earl is locked out. (Sorry Uncle Earl!)
No more keeping up with keys, worrying about sending kids to school with keys they may lose or wondering what does this key go to?
For me, it gives me peace of mind knowing that my kids can get into their home if for some reason I am not there and they are the only ones who can use that code to enter. It definitely gives me reassurance that the house and more importantly, my kids, are safe.
After a recent MomCentral survey of over 1,299 people in the MomCentral community about home safety and locks. The responses were nothing short of amazing. A few stats came to light:
80% of Mom respondents reported that stories of local crimes encourage them to rethink their current locks.
70% of Moms have given keys to people who are not members of the household and when asked to consider how many non-residents have keys to their homes,
86% reported feeling at least moderately concerned.
84% of Moms have experienced a child, babysitter, or housekeeper entering a designated “off-limits” area in the home, sometimes with serious consequences.
Almost half (48%) of survey Moms said they would like to leave a spare key hidden outside of the house but don’t feel comfortable doing so.
84% of respondents reported that house members have been locked out of their home at least a couple times per year
And finally, a little plug: 98% of Moms would consider purchasing a Schlage Electronic Keypad Lock for an exterior door!
I have mine and I love it. It is safe, secure and looks good. Which really? That does make a difference. They were even featured on the show Designing Spaces. (That ups your street cred right there if you have one!) Just the look of it is says, “Stay out! I am a secure home!”
See how pretty it is. And how safe it looks. To me, it says Stay Out. I am planning on putting one on my office door and NOT sharing the code. That should help me get my work finished in a more timely manner. I hope.
Seriously? If home security is important to you, please look into these locks. They are as secure as they come. If I did the “how many stars would you give it” kind of rating system, this would by far get 5 stars. Instead–and better in my opinion–it gives me and my family peace of mind. And that is worth everything.
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This review was brought to you courtesy of a partnership with Mom Central.
I must admit, when it comes to new Nintendo DS games, I usually fight my kids to play them first. (Truth be told, I usually lose that fight and have to go second.) The new game for Nintendo DS, Go Pets, Vacation Island was no exception. So as my daughter ripped into it and started, I watched eagerly over her shoulder for my turn to play.
GoPets is based on the online PC game GoPets. It brings the most advanced virtual pets created on the Internet to the most popular hand held entertainment system.
It is both a social network for kids and a cirtual univers, where pets created by each child feel like they are really alive- they have likes and dislikes when it comes to food (just like kids!). In addition you can watch you pet travel in real time between players all over the world!
My daughter loved creating her pets and naming them and treating them as real pets. (That I don’t have to clean up after. Bonus!)
It is also a great learning experience! Kids can win “shells” for performing acts of kindness to their pet or the pet of one of their buddies, allowing them to learn the value of good deeds. And in today’s world, that is a great quality for all of us to have!
The pets in the gam, either a dog or a cat, can be chosen randomly or matched to your child based on their interests. The pets names and appearanc, however, is completely up to your child. As your child amkes his way around the island, caring for his pets and meeting friends, he or she can trade purple shells he earns for different toys and pet suppoles. Your child can also interact with other characters and compete in mini games. Kids can also befriend new islanders, exchange gifts, and even unlocknew places to visit, all while increasing their ranking and the goal of acquiring the title of BIG KAHUNA, the most influential resident of Vacation Island.
Truth be told, I don’t know who had more fun with it, my daughter or me. All I do know for sure is that is it GAME ON in my house to see who can become the Big Kahuna first. My bet is on her, but my hope is with me.
This is a great game for kids as well as adults. It teaches children how to make friends online safely (which is a huge deal for me!) and they can add up to 250 players to their buddy list. I am not sure what it says that she has more friends that I do, but we both have made friends.
I highly recommend this game for anyone who enjoys their DS and virtual pets.
Other features that are a blast to enjoy:
Customize and dress up your dog, cat, or pony in cute, funky outfits
Collect over 700 world decorations, pet accessories, and food items
Build a buddy list of up to 250 friends to exchange messages and gifts with
Send your pet traveling when you’re not using your Nintendo DS, introducting you to more friends
Create and send graphical IKU messages to other characters and players
Play fun mini-games to earn bonus collectibles
Chat and play with your friends in party mode
Now, I am off to buy my own copy. I can’t have HER become the Big Kahuna first, now can I?
Some days it feels my life is lived online. At least a majority of my work is online. What is not online is on my computer. From the freelance articles I write, to rough drafts of my book to photos and videos of my family. I have my life saved of my hard drive. So, what would happen if I was “robbed” of my online life? I would be devastated. Just as my home has a burglar alarm, I know how important it is for my computer to have the equivalent.
Enter Norton 360 Version 2.0.
It is an all-in-one security solution that helps comsumers feel safe and secure when conducting daily computing activities. Norton 360 combines Symantec’s leading security and tuneup technologies with Identiity Protection and automated Backup technologies to help guard against online fraud and protect personal data. From securing against online threats, such as viruses, spyware and hackers to protecting irreplaceable files, photos, and music.
Some key features:
Defends your PC against a broad range of threats from drive-by downloads being stopped before hitting your computer to multi-levels of protection and a smart firewall
Safeguards against online identity theft: One way is by allowing customers to control how their personal information is shared with Web sites
Protects important files from loss: More ootions for backup destinations, knowledge your files were backedup and easily adding files for backup.
Keeps your PC tuned up for peak performance: Includes registry file cleanup, automatic shut down, diagnostic reports and Firefox compatability with its Internet cleanup.
Provides a hassle-free user experience
Protects against the latest online threats
One-click access to expert support right from your Norton 360 product
1 year protection for up to 3 PCs
So what does all of that mean to you and me? It means you can chill out and relax knowing that your computer is safe. That your life online and on your computer is being protected with Norton 360 Version 2.0. Trust me when I say that I am very paranoid when it comes to online security. Norton gives me peace of mind.
In the interest in full disclosure, I was given the opportunity to review this product for myself courtesy of Mom Central.
I have to admit that I have been overwhelmed lately with books to review. Being a fan of Christie Mellor, author of The Three-Martini Playdate, I was more than willing to review her newest book Were You Raised by Wolves?: Clues to the Mysteries of Adulthood
I have to admit up front that when I read on the back “A Hilarious Guide to the Rules of Adulthood” threw me off a bit. Is there a practical guide to adulthood? I think it is mostly trial and error. Having been in this world of adults for a couple of decades, I came into the book with a skeptical attitude. But I will admit there were some great things in this book. I honestly thought that this would be a book that I would skim, try to say something nice about and pass along. However, even if you think you know everything you need to know about being an adult and all things adult, you can learn a thing or two.
This book is very humorous and is written with such a smart, witty tone that it is entertaining for anyone to read. I think this book would make a great gift for anyone graduating from high school and heading off to college or leaving college for “the real world” but otherwise I am not sure who would get the most use out of it. It is a good read, but not one that most women my age would need.
That being said, I really did learn a lot of things from this handbook to adult living. I mean, who knew that dinner parties can be more than just having friends over for beer and pizza? And cocktail glasses? There are different types beyond a mason jar! AND my kitchen is not just a place to store my sweaters in the oven, but I can cook meals in there. I say these things jokingly but this books comes at issues all adults should be familiar with and know. I did enjoy it. And I did learn. In spite of myself.
With the tone of a casual friend giving you step by step directions on how to do the most basic of daily activities (cleaning your toilet and boiling an egg) to more challenging adult activities (throwing a dinner party and having the correct cocktail glasses), she covers all a person can and should know as an adult.
If your parents did it all for you and you are lost, this is the book for you. If you need a few hints, tips and advice from a well meaning friend on how to be a self-sufficient adult, this is the book for you. It’s all about embracing your adulthood and doing it with confidence.
Now anyone who knows me knows that I am far from being a Rookie Mom. With teens and a 7 year old, my rookie days left me about the same time crows feet showed up. However, that did not stop me from thoroughly enjoying this book. The Rookie Mom’s Handbook: 250 Activities to Do with (and Without!) Your Baby is a great resource for Moms– especially for the first time moms. I remember how many times I looked at my new child and thought, “NOW what do I do with you?” The authors, Heather Gibbs Flett and Whitney Moss are both moms and have both been there and done that. (Where were you 15 years ago, ladies?)
I did love reading this book and checking out their website, Rookie Moms. With over 250 activities in the book alone, no new mom will be left with that puzzled look of bewilderment and feelings of “what now?”
This is what the authors had to say:
Inspired by the enthusiasm our website readers had for our activity suggestions, we’ve compiled 250 new and favorite activities and organized them by age. We hope our blog readers will give this diaper bag-friendly book to their pregnant non-bloggy friends.
I have every intention of passing this great gem along to a real rookie mom. (Interested? Leave me a comment!) Though this book is intended for the new mom, any mom with a young child would be thrilled to have this. It is an easy to read, fun romp through the daily activities you and your child can do together.
Most importantly, it reminds Moms to take time for yourself. If ever there was the perfect piece of advice for moms of all ages, that is it. Because there is life beyond middle of the night feedings and poopy diapers. I promise!
On March 25th, Paramount Home Entertainment released the critically-acclaimed adaptation of the best-selling novel THE KITE RUNNER on DVD! Directed by Marc Forster (Finding Neverland), this intimate and emotionally poignant tale of friendship, betrayal, and redemption was a critical darling and received an Academy Award® nomination for Best Original Score, as well as Golden Globe® nominations for Best Foreign Language Film and Best Original Score - Motion Picture. So, get your kite, pull the string, and get ready to fly it high as THE KITE RUNNER has arrived on DVD on March 25, 2008!
THE KITE RUNNER is a sweeping and emotional tale of friendship, betrayal and redemption received widespread critical acclaim and an Academy Award® nomination for Best Original Score, as well as Golden Globe® nominations for Best Foreign Language Film and Best Original Score—Motion Picture.Spanning several decades and set against the backdrop of first the Soviet invasion and then the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, THE KITE RUNNER tells the story of Amir and Hassan, two boys who form an unlikely friendship in Kabul.But Amir’s failure to defend Hassan against a brutal attack leads to crushing guilt and the boys’ ultimate separation.Forced to flee Kabul ahead of Soviet troops, Amir and his father escape to the United States to pursue a new life, but years later the adult Amir is presented with an opportunity to “be good again” and come to the aid of his long lost friend’s son.A life-affirming story of courage and forgiveness, THE KITE RUNNER is a film that powerfully combines gripping suspense with universal themes to transcend time and place and touch the hearts of viewers everywhere.
THE KITE RUNNERDVD features commentary with Marc Forster, author Khaled Hosseini and screenwriter David Benioff, and the featurettes “Words from THE KITE RUNNER” and “Images from THE KITE RUNNER”.
THE KITE RUNNER DVD is presented in widescreen enhanced for 16:9 TVs with Dolby Digital English 5.1 Surround, French 5.1 Surround and Spanish 5.1 Surround and English, French and Spanish subtitles. The DVD includes the following special features:
Commentary with Marc Forster, author Khaled Hosseini and screenwriter David Benioff
Words from THE KITE RUNNER
Images from THE KITE RUNNER
Public Service Announcement with Khaled Hosseini
Theatrical Trailer
When first asked to review this DVD by the lovely ladies at Parent Bloggers Network, I thought about turning them down thinking my daughter was too old for it. (She is 7 years old and it is aimed at children 3-7.) But, knowing that my daughter loves to dance, I went ahead and decided to try it out. It can’t hurt, right? The worst that could happen is she learns some mad dance skillz and rocks da house durning the DVD. I can deal.
Hip Hop Harry gets kids up on their feet and out of their seats for hours of exercise for both mind and body! This DVD features three different stories.
“Fancy Footwork” actually teaches positive competition– as in it is okay to compete and not everyone will win! Unlike the way the world seems to make everything a non-competition, this shows that it is okay to compete when the two young girls- Savannah and Sophina- find themselves on opposite teams in the Hip Hop Central dance contest. (Green and Orange teams. See? Bright colors!)
“I Like To Move!” presents a Fitness Fun Day at Hip Hop Central; Hip Hop Harry has invited a fitness expert to teach kids some fun new exercises, and Scott discovers the joy of composing poems with rhyming words. In “You Can Dance!”, young Katie has been trained in ballet but wants to learn how to dance Hip Hop, so Hip Hop Harry recommends that she take some dance classes at Hip Hop Central - and she learns some new moves step by step!
Bonus features include Hip Hop Harry’s Memory Game and a “Ready, Set Learn!” video.
All three of the episodes promote exercise and physical fitness as well as encouraging creativity and social skills.
The DVD was definitely colorful and energetic. Where else where you find a blinged out Teddy Bear who will rock the house with you?
I think my daughter was a bit above the age for this DVD, but she did enjoy it nevertheless.
Outback Steakhouse is celebrating its 20th birthday this month and with that comes the anniversary of the Bloomin’ Onion, Outback’s signature dish and the first item on the menu 20 years ago.
Here are some interesting facts on the Bloomin’ Onion:
Outback has sold more than 133.5 million Bloomin’ Onions.
15 million Bloomin’ Onions are sold each year.
Before it is “bloomed,” each onion is specially grown to be 16 ounces big and 4 ½ inches wide!
The Bloomin Onion remains true to its original recipe: 17 different spices to flavor the onion and an additional 37 spices in the dipping sauce.
In honor of its birthday, Outback has also created a select number of special menu items that are only available through the end of April. For more information and to view the menu items, visit: http://www.outback.com/foodandmenus/featureditems.aspx
Now you know you want a Bloomin’ Onion, don’t you. Come on. Go get one. What better way to celebrate a birthday than to stuff your face with a Bloomin’ Onion? None, I tell ya!
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Just in time for my personal back to school organizing, I was able to try out the most incredible organizing products I have seen in a long time. The Simply Chic and Eye Candy collections are by far my favorites when it comes to getting myself organized. (And let’s face it, as a board member on two PTA boards, I need all the help I can get!)
When I was sent me a box of several new Simply Chic and Eye Candy products courtesy of Mom Central, I nearly passed out with glee over the contents– including a note pad, a datebook, magnets, a journal, and organizational folders (a regular folder and my all time favorite accordian style folder as well as a super chic mouse pad. Even their magnets are hip. The pens? I am totally not loaning out at meetings or to friends. They are now my favorite pens and I am going to be greedy with them. All of these come in fun and (yes, I will say it) sassy designs and stylishly chic colors. These totally fit my personality! (Sadly, they also seem to be just as much fun to my daughter who was sad that the box was not for her. Not this time! I get to be the one with the fun back to school folders.) However, these incredible products are available at Wal-Mart so I can actually be nice and share with my daughter. Rather, I can buy her her own set of stylish back to school products because this mom is going to get herself organized first!
Some days it feels my life is lived online. At least a majority of my work is online. What is not online is on my computer. From the freelance articles I write, to rough drafts of my book to photos and videos of my family. I have my life saved of my hard drive. So, what would happen if I was “robbed” of my online life? I would be devastated. Just as my home has a burglar alarm, I know how important it is for my computer to have the equivalent.
is a great resource for Moms– especially for the first time moms. I remember how many times I looked at my new child and thought, “NOW what do I do with you?” The authors, Heather Gibbs Flett and Whitney Moss are both moms and have both been there and done that. (Where were you 15 years ago, ladies?)
