Scooby-Doo! Legend of the Phantosaur (*new* giveaway)

JINKIES!

GET SET FOR A MONSTROUS ADVENTURE

WHEN WARNER HOME VIDEO

RELEASES THE ALL NEW ORIGINAL ANIMATED MOVIE

SCOOBY-DOO! LEGEND OF THE PHANTOSAUR

SEPTEMBER 6, 2011

Family Favorite Franchise Scooby-Doo! is Back With a

Brand-New Film

Format: Animated, Dolby, Full Screen, Widescreen

Language: English

Region: Region A/1 (Read more about DVD/Blu-ray formats.)

Aspect Ratio: 1.77:1

Number of discs: 2

Rated: Unrated

Studio: Warner Home Video

DVD Release Date: September 6, 2011

Run Time: 75 minutes

From the studio: What’s creepier than a dinosaur? A ghostly dinosaur! Just ask Scooby-Doo and his pals after they encounter a Phantosaur, one of the creepiest creatures ever, in Scooby-Doo! Legend of the Phantosaur, the all-new, must-have, original movie from Warner Home Video (WHV). Viewers will want to join in the high-jinks and fun with the lovable Great Dane and the Scooby-Doo gang as they investigate a strange haunting that’s plaguing a group of paleontologists searching for ancient fossils. Scooby-Doo! Legend of the Phantosaur will be available in stores September 6, 2011 and will retail for $19.98 SRP and Blu-ray™ Combo for $24.98 SRP.


What begins as a relaxing spa getaway for Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Velma and Daphne, somehow takes a very strange turn when the gang uncovers a frightening Phantosaur, a ghostly dinosaur that’s come to life to protect hidden treasures buried in secret desert caves. The Phantosaur appears to be on a mission to keep a group of paleontologists from digging for fossils. The gang sets out to investigate the prehistoric haunting and in the process, uncover all sorts of colorful suspects including a free-wheeling motorcycle gang, greedy corporate investors and over-zealous scientists. Will it be prehistoric panic or will our teenage sleuths put all the pieces together and solve this strange mystery?


“Scooby-Doo! Legend of the Phantosaur offers a perfect blend of mystery and fun designed to entertain both kids and adults,” said Mary Ellen Thomas, WHV Executive Marketing Director of Family & Animation Franchise. She added, “Our goal is to create an engaging series of animated films featuring Scooby-Doo and the gang. This is one of the best-loved cartoons in pop culture history and we know that fans eagerly await each new installment. It’s important for us to us to keep Scooby-Doo’s legacy alive by continuing to bring consumers exciting new films such as this.”


Scooby-Doo!, the hit franchise follows the adventures of Daphne, Fred, Shaggy, Velma and Scooby-Doo as they travel in their van “The Mystery Machine” and solve cases typically involving ghosts, monsters or other supernatural forces. High-jinks always ensue, with their investigations resulting in entertaining chase scenes mixed with catchy musical numbers and comedic antics. The original television program went on to become one of the most successful animated television programs in history and spawned several spin-off series, specials, consumer products and live action films.


DVD Bonus Material:


Searching for Phantosaurs – Join Nick Palatas (“Shaggy” from Scooby-Doo!: The Mystery Begins and Scooby-Doo!: Curse of the Lake Monster) as he searches for clues about the mysterious lives of dinosaurs at the Los Angeles County Natural History Museum. Nick meets with the museum’s experts to get the real story on the amazing dinosaurs they have on display. Beware, there may be a Phantosaur lurking about! Nick will need to keep his wits about him on this museum adventure!


My take: To me, one of the funniest parts of any Scooby-Doo! show is watching the antics of Shaggy and Scooby-Doo - their fear and related hi jinks can usually make me laugh out loud.  So what's going to happen when Shaggy is told by his doctor to avoid all things that can make him scared?  Even when he tries hard to relax at a spa and stay away from ghost hunting?  Well, you know mysteries aren't far behind whenever the gang shows up.  The Legend of the Phantosaur is an awesome new addition to the Scooby-Doo! franchise in my humble opinion. And as usual, it's not too scary either - my 6 year old AND 8 year old love Scooby-Doo.

Take a look at this clip entitled, “Yikes" for a sneak peek - 

http://shutterandcut.com/WB/Scooby_Doo_LP/Scooby_Doo_LP_Yikes.mov and be sure to order your copy today (you can preorder on Amazon already :-)

The giveaway:  Win your very own copy of Scooby-Doo! Legend of the Phantosaur before you can buy it!

To win: Leave a comment here telling me another Warner Brothers Entertainment Family DVD that you'd like to watch. Be sure to leave your email address with your comment if you are not a blogger or your email is not easily found on your blog. This giveaway is open until 11:59 p.m., EST, Tuesday, September 6, 2011. Good Luck!

Bonus entries: Get up to 9 extra entries for a total of 10 entries (please leave a separate comment for each extra entry):

• Follow Warner Brothers Entertainment on Twitter (leave a comment here with your twitter id)
• Blog about this giveaway (don't forget to leave the link in your comment)
• Share this giveaway on any of your Social Networking sites (like Twitter and/or Facebook) and come back here with a link to your post/tweet (you can have up to two entries - be sure to leave 2 comments)
• Follow me on Twitter (leave a comment with your twitter id) (you can use the yellow button on the top right sidebar)
• Subscribe to my blog via RSS or Email (see top right sidebar)
• Add my button to your sidebar (leave your website address for verification)
• Fan or Fav me on Technorati (or use the purple box link on the top right sidebar)
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"The Credits"

About Warner Bros. Animation: Warner Bros. Animation (WBA) is one of the leading producers of animation in the entertainment industry, with an innovative and talent-rich roster boasting some of the most accomplished writers, producers and artists working today. The studio is on the cutting edge of animation technology, and has both CG and traditionally animated projects in current production and development. In 2010, WBA unveiled three new CG cartoon shorts that feature iconic Looney Tunes characters Wile E. Coyote and Road Runner, rendered in stereoscopic 3D. The films have been released theatrically, attached to Warner Bros. Pictures releases. For television, WBA currently produces Batman: The Brave and the Bold, Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated, MAD, The Looney Tunes Show, Young Justicefor Cartoon Network, and will soon launch Green Lantern: The Animated Series, , ThunderCats, and more. WBA also creates the highly successful series of DC Universe original animated movies for DVD. Producing for multiple platforms including TV, digital and home entertainment both domestically and internationally, WBA is highly respected for its creative and technical excellence, as well as for maintaining the Studio's rich cartoon heritage. It is also the home of the iconic animated characters from the DC Comics, Hanna-Barbera, MGM and Looney Tunes libraries. One of the most-honored animation studios in history, WBA has been honored with six Academy Awards®, 35 Emmy® Awards, the George Foster Peabody Award, an Environmental Media Award, a Parents' Choice Award, the HUMANITAS Prize, two Prism Awards and 20 Annie Awards (honoring excellence in animation).

About Warner Home Video: With operations in 90 international territories, Warner Home Video, a division of Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Inc., commands the largest home entertainment distribution infrastructure in the global video marketplace. Warner Home Video's film library is the largest of any studio, offering top quality new and vintage titles from the repertoires of Warner Bros. Pictures, Turner Entertainment, Castle Rock Entertainment, HBO Video and New Line Cinema.

About Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group: Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group brings together Warner Bros. Entertainment's home video, digital distribution, interactive entertainment/videogames, direct-to-DVD production, technical operations and anti-piracy businesses in order to maximize current and next-generation distribution scenarios. WBHEG is responsible for the global distribution of content through DVD, electronic sell-through and VOD, and delivery of theatrical content to wireless and online channels, and is also a significant worldwide publisher for both internal and third party videogame titles.

This review was sponsored by The Lippin Group PR who provided the DVDs for review and giveaway. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary DVD. My opinion is my own.

P.S.:  Be sure to check out my new fan page for Did You See That? on Facebook (Facebook rules do not allow giveaway entries for "Liking" Facebook pages).

Where I've Been

Our family has been preparing for this:

We have power right now, but not sure for how long.

We are in the red zone:

The neighborhood about 1 1/2 miles from us was evacuated yesterday.  We are hunkering down and riding it out.

Prayers for everyone on the east coast today.

Positively Proud

From the PR Firm:  No matter how old their kids get, Moms who pack school lunches or camp bags can’t help but tuck a sweet note inside. Why? Because we’re proud of our children and when we’re not with them, we want our sons and daughters (or nieces/ nephews/grandkids) to know our unconditional love is always with them. That’s the concept behind an enchanting e-tailer called Positively Proud that offers products that makes kids feel special -- at lunch, before a recital, at sleepover camp, or no reason at all! Their website, www.PositivelyProud.com, offers affordable stickers, books, cards and gifts with a theme of daily encouragement. 


As kids grow from toddlers to little personalities, perhaps nothing is more important than positive self worth. According to KidsHealth.com, “healthy self-esteem is a child's armor against the challenges of the world. Kids who feel good about themselves seem to have an easier time handling conflicts and resisting negative pressures. They tend to smile more readily and enjoy life.” The National Association for the Education for Young Children agrees, “Children with a healthy sense of self-esteem feel that the important adults in their lives love them, accept them, and would go out of their way to ensure their safety and well-being.”


A random act of kindness such as a note tucked inside a backpack saying, “you can do it!” before a math test can go a long way in helping a child to be the best that he can be. Positively Proud is loaded with clever ways to say, “I love you” or “here’s a hug.” Most items are under $15 and the inventory is adorable.

My take: We received the four items detailed below, though this is only a sample of all the awesome products you can find at Positively Proud - I honestly feel I could spend hours browsing (and quite a bit of my paycheck buying) from this website.  I'm a firm believer in putting notes in my children's lunch bags already but Positively Proud takes my bar and raises it much higher.    Their Lunch Mail boxes (see below) are little cards of encouragement inside and out - each one pops open to reveal another message.  The Lunch Box Letters (also below) take lunch notes a step further.  The front of the book gives you all kinds of ideas and the rest of the book contains tear out sheets of paper to write your own messages on.  The Positively Proud Packet (below) was my favorite - it's like a little scrapbook making supply folder - but instead of scrapbooking, you use these awesome cutouts and stickers (and postcards and other fun stuff) to tuck into backpacks and lunch bags.  There are also some great sticker charts for chores or other good behavior at home.  Teachers might find this packet very helpful for the younger grades as well.  Finally, Table Topics to go is a fun way to start dinner time conversations as you sit down to dinner together after school.  All in all, Positively Proud makes the kinds of products you'll be glad you spent your hard earned money on, and has been one of my favorite reviews - after all, who doesn't want to help their child feel loved?!  Check them out today!

Lunch Mail: “I believe In You” theme  $4.95

Send your children off to school with a piece of love tucked inside their lunch, backpack or pocket. What a great feeling to discover an inspiring little greeting card from you! Each miniature pop-open card conceals a secret message of love, encouragement and self esteem hidden inside. Personalize the back with an extra dose of encouragement. Each collection contains 30 different miniature "pop-open" greeting cards.

I Believe in You! - Boost your children's confidence. Let them know that anything is possible for them.


You're Incredible! - Let your children know how much they mean to you, how much you truly care.


Reach for the Stars! - Inspire your child to dream, hope and plan! Great messages to show the power of high expectations and exciting goals.


Dream Big! - Give wings to your children's dreams! Encourage a child to set goals, aim high and expect the very best.
You Can Do It! - Encourage your child every step of the way! It's great to show your faith and support.


Dimensions: One card 2 1/4" wide x 1 7/8" high

Lunch Box Letters Book  $8.95

Lunch Box Letters, created by two parents who wrote notes to their children regularly and were greatly encouraged by the results, presents a proven method of staying in touch with your kids. The authors provide sample letters to get you started, and make it perfectly clear that you don't need to be Shakespeare to write lunch box letters. Your children just want to hear your voice - to know that you care about them enough to write a few words for them to read in the middle of the day.

Lunch Box Letters also contains 75 sheets of colorful notepaper, ready for you to tear out and use. These pages are bright and cheerful, and some have jokes and riddles - making it easier to get started. Just add a few words and tuck the finished letter into your child's lunch box or backpack. With this book to guide you, the letter takes almost no time at all. Yet all the benefits will last a lifetime.


Authors: Carol Sperandeo & Bill Zimmerman
Dimensions: 7.5" x 5.5" Paperback

Positively Proud Packet  $14.95

Rewards, Stickers, Incentive Charts, Tokens, Notepaper, Lunch Mail, Postcards, and more are all included in this Awesome Positively Proud Packet.

Reward Success!
Encourage Progress!
Notice Accomplishment!
Compliment Effort!
Express Appreciation!
Boost Self Esteem!


Keep these tools at your fingertips, and you'll be prepared for any moment that calls for encouraging word or loving message. An award for a great report card. A star incentive chart to encourage a clean bedroom. A lunch mail note that contains a joke and a personalized message from you.


This packet has all the encouragement tools to make it easy for you to connect with your child and let them know that they are Special and Loved!


A list of ideas on how to use the packet is included.

Kids Table Topics To Go  $9.00

Entertain your kids for hours!

Great questions for young, curious minds that help pass the time quickly. A most-welcomed gift for families on-the-go. Learn more about each other and cherish the memories that the answers create. You could also pop a card in your child's lunch bag to provide something new and positive to talk about at recess or lunch.


Sample questions:
•would you rather see a movie, a parade, or a magic show?
•what makes you feel better when you're sick?
•if you wanted to earn $50.00 how would you like to earn the money?
•what's your favorite board game?
•what object would you like to be able to draw really well?
•if you could be a superhero which special power would you choose to have?


Dimensions: 3" x 3"

Bonus:  Use discount code “blog15” for a 15% discount off any purchase (no minimum required) until Sept. 15.

If you like their products, after visiting their webpage, be sure to "Like" the company’s Facebook page and leave a comment at Facebook about what product they found that they liked - I'm sure Ms. Alexander would love your feedback :-)


About Positively Proud: Positively Proud is a mom-invented company whose mission is to make kids feel special. Stacey Alexander and her team achieve it every day through careful selection of products that have positive messages imbedded in the product itself. The boutique provides ways to communicate to any child that they are special and loved unconditionally. Browse through the unique product line and adults will discover a collection of age-appropriate products all geared toward daily encouragement and positive reinforcement.

This review was sponsored by

KidStuff Public Relations

P.S.:  Be sure to check out my new fan page for Did You See That? on Facebook!

This post was written for Positively Proud and KidStuff PR who provided the items for review. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary products (a USD $37.85 value).  

My opinions are my own.

Crystal Light Flavor Over Fizz Challenge

From the PR Firm:  The heat, to the humidity, to the overall summer lull—we’re all feeling the dog days of summer. Instead of turning to that can of diet soda, mix some flavor and fun into your summer with Crystal Light.


We’re excited to share three Crystal Light recipes with you; from the classic Strawberry Lemonade, to entertaining favorites like Citrus Brunch Punch and Pineapple Lemonade Punch, you won’t go wrong with these deliciously refreshing drinks. 


These recipes are also a wonderful way to help enjoy the Crystal Light Flavor Over Fizz Challenge. Now through September 9, Crystal Light is encouraging women to replace their diet soda with the refreshing flavor of Crystal Light. And what better way to do it than with these delicious recipes? To take the Challenge, connect with Crystal Light on Facebook (www.Facebook.com/CrystalLight). You’ll have a flavorful summer and even have the chance to win instant prizes daily while doing it.

My take: Agreeing to do this review for Kraft Foods was a no-brainer for me. After all, I'm on a medically restricted diet and am "strongly encouraged" to drink about 12 gallons of water a day.  Not seriously, it just feels that way (I actually drink about 64 oz a day in addition to the liquid shakes).  So I typically add crystal light to that water (it's not only allowed, it's encouraged by the plan) in order to add some pizzazz to my daily intake.  Now, of the three recipes above, I'm could only try the first one, as the other two have other beverages in the recipes (so ya'll will have to try them and let me know if they are as delicious as they sound); the Strawberry Lemonade is SO good, I can tell you though.  Try them yourself today (drop the soda, your body will thank you!) and be sure to check out and accept the Crystal Light Flavor Over Fizz Challenge - you can win some excellent fitness prizes - I've got my eye on that Trek Cruiser myself!

This post was written for Kraft Foods who provided me with 6 packs of Natural Lemonade to facilitate my review. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary product. My opinion is my own.

P.S.:  Be sure to check out my new fan page for Did You See That? on Facebook!

The Unusual Hero Blog Tour

From the publisher: The unlikely heroes in The Warrior Sheep Go West and Sally’s Bones are sure to have kids on the edge of their seats in these two epic adventures.

The Warrior Sheep Go West (AUGUST 2011; Ages 9-12; juvenile fiction/independent reader)

Last time they saved the Sheep God, this time the Warrior Sheep head to Las Vegas to save rams, ewes, and lambs everywhere from the strange monster called Red Tongue. The sheep have a mad scientist following them but that won’t stop them from saving everyone from the monster.

Authors Christine and Christopher Russell are a husband and wife team writing children’s book together. The Warrior Sheep Go West is their second book, following closely on the hooves of The Quest of the Warrior Sheep (February 2011). Christopher Russell had a successful career in British television drama before becoming a children's novelist and Christine has always been closely involved in his work.

Sally’s Bones (SEPTEMBER 2011; Ages 9-12; juvenile fiction/independent reader)

When Sally Simplesmith’s life changed forever she came face-to-face with death, and gained a skeleton dog which she named Bones. When the towns dog treats start to go missing everyone blames Bones. But could the culprit be Sally’s arch nemesis Viola, or the evil dog catcher? It’s up to Sally to solve the mystery and save her cadaverous canine from puppy prison.

Author MacKenzie Cadenhead’s love of radioactive spiders, Kevin Henkes, zombies and her puppy/muse, Smudge, naturally inspired her to become a children’s book writer. She lives in Westchester, NY, surrounded by a slew of oak trees just waiting to be hit by lightning and        

       bring a lovable skeleton dog back to life.

My take: Now, I'm not 9 to 12 years old, so personally, neither book kept me on the edge of my seat but let me tell you, I still found them both enjoyable reads. Before I read The Warrior Sheep Go West, I did not even know about book 1 in the series (Quest of the Warrior Sheep) but that didn't seem to matter - this book works fine on its own.  It was a fun story about how a group of sheep are "sheepnapped" by an evil doctor and his evil wife, who need smart sheep to carry out their nefarious plan.  Through a series of mishaps, the sheep are able to thwart their efforts but I'm not going to give away any details here - you'll have to read it for yourself. I really liked the underlying theme though of being brave and heroic even when scared.  I read the book to my 6 year old and she loved it. 


Sally's Bones was a bit more of a mystery.  Sally is so despondent (not just middle school angst for a child that doesn't fit the norm but she is dealing with the death of her beloved mother as well) that while crying in a graveyard, she begs for death.  At that moment, death is literally delivered to her in the form of Bones, a "dead" dog made entirely of bones.  The mystery they must solve together is who is stealing all the town's bones - or Bones will be taken away and destroyed forever!  It's a great book for a middle school child with a good message about what conformity is, how unique we all are (and should be!), and the value of friendship.  This is a book I'm saving for my kiddos to read as they approach middle school in a few years.

This review was sponsored by Sourcebooks Publicity who provided the books for review. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary books.  My opinions are my own.

P.S.:  Be sure to check out my new fan page for Did You See That? on Facebook!

Manners Mats (review)

From the PR Firm:  Successful Kids, Inc. is an awesome company whose mission is to find fun ways to teach children manners. Their main product is the Blunders game which was featured on the Today Show as Kathy Lee's "favorite thing"! The Blunders Board game teaches children ages 5 to 10 about social and dining etiquette in the most unique, interactive, and entertaining way ever imagined. Children love Blunders because it is about the four endearing characters of Becky, Bobby, Brenda, and Billy Blunder and players laugh as they learn while trying to help the Blunders learn better manners.


Successful Kids, Inc. also created "Manners Mats" which include 38 fun and educational tear-off place mats which teach children table manners and social skills through entertaining games, puzzles, and activities.


You can learn more about the Successful Kids, Inc. products by visiting and "liking" their Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Successful-Kids-Inc/106203996138241 or Twitter page: http://twitter.com/#!/blundersmania (On both of these pages we post daily manners tips as well as have contests where the winners will be shipped a free set of manners mats!) You can also visit our website: http://www.blundersmania.com/

My take: When I was first approached about reviewing "Manner Mats" (way back in the day before my life became crazy busy), our family was eating out at least three times a week.  Now, my husband and I are on a restricted medical diet (http://bwwi.blogspot.com) and we don't eat out at all.  No matter, "Manner Mats" are fabulous for home dining as well (and my daughter likes to work on them in the car too :-)  We received the set you see here (38 Tear-Off Placemats).  The mats all have one of the "Blunders" or their friends on them - Becky, Brenda, Kim, Pam, Bobby, Billy, James and Ronaldo - what's cool is these 8 kids are of a myriad of races so your child should be able to relate to at least one of them.  Each mat has crossword puzzles, word searches, multiple choice or word makers.  There are also Conversation Starters, vocabulary, jokes and trivia.  Each one has a "Minute Manners" tip as well.  So not only are your kids keeping busy, they are learning how to behave in a fun and engaging manner.  Manners Mats certainly goes under my "Why Didn't I Think of That?" category.  Five stars!

Manner Mats™

Each pad of Manner Mats™ includes 38 different disposable tear-off placemats overflowing with fun games, puzzles and activities for children ages 6+.

Manner Mats™ include 38 different fun and educational tear-off placemats that teach children table manners and social skills through entertaining games, puzzles, and activities. Use them to teach manners & social skills at home or take them along when dining out! Each Manner Mat pad costs only $9.95, and includes 38 different disposable placemats.

Fun for the Whole Family

Each Manner Mat features fun puzzles, games, questions and trivia for the whole family.

Click here to see a sample mat!

Now Available for Restaurants!

Each 10 ½” x 14 ½” two-sided color placemat includes the same fun activities as the pads of Manner Mats, but there are 500 of the same placemat in a case. Placemats can be personalized for your restaurant, school or group with a minimum order.

Click here to learn more!

From Aimee Symington, Creator of Blunders® and Manner Mats™: During the 10 years I worked in the corporate world as a training and development professional, I had a special interest in business etiquette. I noticed how people who knew all of the social graces were the ones who really seemed to get ahead. I wanted to pursue the field of business etiquette, but after the birth of my second child, I decided to stay at home with my two children, Emma and Luke.

While spending a lot of time with young children in and around my neighborhood, I began to observe how, just as with adults, those children who had nice manners were the ones who "got ahead." The well-mannered children had more friends, did better in school, and were the ones adults and children wanted to be around. I quickly learned, however, that teaching children social and dining etiquette was not as easy as teaching adults! Children don’t want to learn manners because it will help them get ahead in life. They feel that learning manners is "boring" and not much fun. I just kept thinking, there has to be a better and more exciting way to teach children manners and polite behavior.

Already certified in business etiquette, I decided to learn everything I could about children’s etiquette and I designed a workshop for children on social and dining etiquette called "Successful Kids." For the past 2 years I have been conducting these workshops around the Charlotte, NC, area and they have been very successful, but families continue to ask me how they can teach and reinforce manners at home in a fun, engaging way. So, after a lot of research and play-testing, I created the board game Blunders™, which teaches manners and polite behavior in the most fun and exciting way ever imagined.

If you are interested in reading more about Aimee Symington and the creation of Blunders, the North Carolina Huntersville Herald published a news article dated February 22, 2008: Click here to read it!

This post was written for Successful Kids, Inc. who provided the Manner Mats for review. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary product. My opinion is my own.

P.S.:  Be sure to check out my new fan page for Did You See That? on Facebook!

The Garfield Show: Spooky Tails (DVD review)

The Garfield Show: Spooky Tails

List Price: $14.93

Language: English

Number of discs: 1

Rated: NR (Not Rated)

Studio: Vivendi Entertainment

DVD Release Date: August 23, 2011

Run Time: 72 minutes

From the studio: Follow the witty and silly duo as they run into spooky trouble again! It's all fun and games for Garfield and Odie as they take a fun-filled trip on Halloween until Garfield is mistaken by a loose wild cat! Includes other out-of-this-world adventures! Featuring 6 episodes.

My take: Did you know Garfield the cartoon has been around since 1978?  I was only 7 years old then so I don't think I was reading the paper yet :-)  I do remember my dear friend Theresa loving Garfield ever since I can remember (and we met when I was 5!)  But until I had kids, and started this review site, I had never watched any of the cartoons on T.V.  Now is a great time to get caught up with Garfield's goofy shenanigans with The Garfield Show: Spooky Tails, especially since my 6 year old likes to watch him too.  We recently sat down to watch this new DVD and it was a ton of fun - honestly - even my 8 year old was laughing.  There are six fun episodes (Orange and Black, The Robot, It's a Cat World, Time Master, Virtualodeon and Mastermind) and they don't all directly relate to Halloween but it sure got me in the mood for fall.  A nice edition to your DVD library for all you Garfield fans.

This review was sponsored by Bender/Helper Impact PR and Vivendi Entertainment who provided the DVD for review. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary DVD.  
My opinions are my own.

P.S.:  Be sure to check out my new fan page for Did You See That? on Facebook!

Water's Edge (book review)

Water's Edge

By Robert Whitlow

Paperback: 400 pages

Publisher: Thomas Nelson (July 19, 2011)

Language: English

List Price: $15.99

Book Description: Sometimes the smallest towns hold the biggest secrets. Ambitious young attorney Tom Crane is about to become a partner in a big-city law firm. One final matter has to be cleared from his docket—the closing of his deceased father’s law practice in the small town of Bethel. Killed in a tragic boating accident, John Crane didn’t leave his son anything except the hassle of a bankrupt estate. Then, within twenty-four hours, Tom loses his job, his girlfriend, and his cat. Job didn’t have it much worse. Returning to Bethel with his pride ground to powder, Tom’s plan to quietly shut down his father’s practice and slink out of town runs into an unexpected roadblock—two million dollars of unclaimed money stashed in a secret bank account. Tom follows the money into a tangled web of lies, theft, and off-shore financial transactions manipulated by powerful men who will do anything to stop him from discovering the truth.

My take: I've heard writers should "write about what they know" and to his credit, it would appear that Mr. Whitlow is following that advice.  As a lawyer himself, he knows of which he speaks which lends credibility to his works of fiction.  Water's Edge follows attorney Tom Crane as he leaves behind the big city (and the big city law firm) to a small town practice that was his father's legacy.  As he attempts to close it down, it becomes clear (at least to us readers) that he might be better off practicing small town law.  Complicating matters are two million dollars that he needs to find the owner to, not one but two budding romances, and his own budding religious awakening.  While the villain of the story was not difficult to figure out, it was still a good story to follow as I enjoyed following along as God slowly worked his way into Tom's unbelieving heart (the help of his great uncle :-)  I look forward to reading more of Mr. Whitlow's work.  Four stars.

About the author: Robert Whitlow grew up in north Georgia. He graduated magna cum laude from Furman University with a BA in history in 1976 and received his JD with honors from the University of Georgia School of Law in 1979. A practicing attorney, he is a partner in a Charlotte, NC law firm. He and his wife Kathy have four children and two grandchildren. Robert began writing in 1996. His novels are set in the South and include both legal suspense and interesting characterization. It is his desire to write stories that reveal some of the ways God interacts with people in realistic scenarios.

This review was sponsored by Book Sneeze (Thomas Nelson) who provided the book for review. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary book.  My opinions are my own.

P.S.:  Be sure to check out my new fan page for Did You See That? on Facebook!

Life Everlasting (book review)

Life Everlasting

By Robert Whitlow

Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson; Reprint edition (August 2, 2011)
Language: English
List Price:  $15.99

Book Description: Though Alexia's client's life no longer hangs in the balance, eternal questions linger.


The music stopped, the room emptied, and Baxter Richardson opened his eyes for the first time in months. He should have died from his involuntary plunge off a cliff. But he's alive, and mortal danger remains. Familiar enemies stalk him. New ones hover close at hand.


Meanwhile, haunted by accusing apparitions and the tightening dragnet of criminal investigation, Baxter's wife, Rena, is losing her patience. And quite possibly her mind.


Caught in the middle of it all is Alexia Lindale, a lawyer forced to find her way through deceptive alliances, uncertain romances, and courtroom intrigue. It's a struggle of life, death . . . and life everlasting.

My take:  This was the very first Robert Whitlow novel I've read (followed by the one you'll see reviewed later) so I didn't know what to expect.  The cover and description looked a lot like a John Grisham novel - you know, a legal thriller.  Being a Book Sneeze review though, I knew there would be Christian elements to the story; I just wasn't sure how well these two genres would "marry."  Well, let me tell you, they make a great couple in the hands of Mr. Whitlow.  I thoroughly enjoyed reading every page of Life Everlasting.  Apparently, this is a sequel to his book Life Support which I have never read but the book stood alone well (though more detail/back story on the marriage of Rena and Baxter and how Baxter lapsed into a coma in the first place would have been helpful).  I enjoyed following Alexia's spiritual journey as she struggled to start up a new business and (fairly) new relationship, all while hand holding a client slowly descending into madness.  And reading about the power of prayer and music in the hands and voice of Ted and Sarah was a treat for this reader who believes in miracles.  I have to say though, the ending was a bit unbelievable.  Perhaps if I read the first and third book of the series, it will all tie together for me.  Four stars.

This review was sponsored by Book Sneeze (Thomas Nelson) who provided the book for review. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary book.  My opinions are my own.

P.S.:  Be sure to check out my new fan page for Did You See That? on Facebook!

The Gruffalo (review and giveaway)

From the Sponsor: We are so excited to introduce our newest title, The Gruffalo! 


• 2010 Academy Award nominee
• Narrated by Helena Bonham Carter
• Voices of an all-star cast
• Studio: NCircle Entertainment
• DVD Release Date: August 16, 2011
• Run Time: 40 minutes plus bonus content
• $8.99 at NCircle Entertainment

Synopsis :  The Gruffalo tells the magical tale of a mouse who takes a walk through the woods in search of a nut. Encountering three predators who all wish to eat him, the adorable and confident mouse has to use his wits to survive. He tells his predators that he is meeting a monster, which scares each of them, but what will mouse do when comes face to face with the terrible product of his imagination?


The film is based on the classic children's picture book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler. The special's all-star voice cast features Robbie Coltrane as the Gruffalo; Helena Bonham Carter as the narrator, Rob Brydon as the Snake; James Corden as the Mouse; John Hurt as the Owl and Tom Wilkinson as the Fox. (Animated)


The Gruffalo will be available at your local retailer or at www.NCircleEntertainment.com!

Bonus:  Visit a free activity site here: www.EntertainmentThatEducates.com

My take: This past Sunday was a total wash out.  But in a good way!.  You see, we were verging on a drought here in S.E. Virginia and it rained all day Sunday.  It poured buckets!  Which was good for our garden and grass (and even our cars) but not so much for our outdoor plans.  So we made it an all day family movie day and started with The Gruffalo.  I can tell you that everyone in our house, from the 6 year old to the 8 year old, to the two 40 year olds watched this short movie.  Remember when it was first aired on the ABC Family Channel during the holidays?  I didn't have a chance to watch it then so I was glad to get this DVD.  Let me tell you, this was a really cute story and the visual work was beautiful - CGI sure has come a long way since I was a child (when I walked uphill, in the snow, barefoot and all - ha!).  I think The Gruffalo offers a valuable lesson to on using your imagination and creativity to get through times that may seem impossible to overcome.  And 40 minutes was just the right length for active children to sit and watch.  5 stars to The Gruffalo!  Read below for how you can win a copy.... 

The giveaway:  One lucky winner will win his/her very own copy of the The Gruffalo DVD!

To win: Leave me a comment telling me the name of an upcoming release from NCircle Entertainment. Be sure to leave your email address with your comment if you are not a blogger or your email is not easily found on your blog. This giveaway is open until 11:59 p.m., EST, Wednesday, August 24, 2011. Good Luck!

Bonus entries: Get up to 9 extra entries for a total of 10 entries (please leave a separate comment for each extra entry):

• Blog about this giveaway (don't forget to leave the link in your comment)
• Follow NCircle Entertainment on Twitter
• Share this giveaway on any of your Social Networking sites (like Twitter and/or Facebook) and come back here with a link to your post/tweet (you can have up to two entries - be sure to leave 2 comments)
• Follow me on Twitter (leave a comment with your twitter id)
• Subscribe to my blog via RSS or Email (see top left sidebar)
• Add my blog to your blogroll or my button to your sidebar (leave your website address for verification)
• On Technorati - click on this link, then on Fan or Fav
• Follow me on Google Friend Connect (see top left sidebar)

P.S.:  Be sure to check out my new fan page for Did You See That? on Facebook!

P.P.S.: New Facebook rules do not allow contest entries for "Liking" facebook pages but you can follow NCircle Entertainment here if you'd like.

This review was sponsored by NCircle Entertainment who provided the DVD for review and giveaway. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary DVD.

Hello Kitty from SparkleBee

From the PR Firm: From Mandy Moore to Cameron Diaz, women of all ages love Hello Kitty! Marino Andriani LLC (www.sparklebee.com) asked moms what their Hello Kitty top picks are and now we want you to try one out!

Whether you are styling your little princess for a pretend getaway or want a charming lamp to use when reading a book before bedtime, find all your Hello Kitty merchandise at Sparkle Bee!  

Also, add us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/sparklebeemarinoandriani or on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/sparklebee. 


My take:  Do you have a Hello Kitty fan in your house?  We do.  So I was excited to open the box we recently received from SparkleBee - they sent my 6 year old the clock you see below to review.   I think you might have heard her squealing from our house to yours :-)  She was seriously excited and set it up immediately.  As a reviewer, I have amassed quite a collection of children's music CDs and now our daughter can play them in her own room (before she had to listen in the car or on the family player).  It's super easy to operate - she's only 6 and she figured it all out on her own.  Now if you can't find her around the house, just go look in her room and you'll probably see her dancing around and singing, thanks to SparkleBee!  And when school starts, the alarm on this will come in handy too - she just doesn't know it yet (LOL!).  I've also been known to turn on the radio myself in her room when I'm cleaning :-)


Besides this awesome radio/CD player/clock, SparkleBee has a ton of other products (Hello Kitty and Paul Frank branded) so be sure to check them out for other great back to school products!

  * Top Loading CD Player
   * CD-R/RW Compatible
   * Skip/Search Forward and Back
   * Repeat and Random Play
   * Programmable Memory
   * AM/FM Stereo Radio
   * FM Stereo Indicator
   * Multi-function 0.6" Red LED Display with Dimmer
   * Wake to CD, Radio or Alarm
   * Power, Repeat, Program and Random Indicators
   * Sleep Function
   * Snooze Function
   * Power: Unit - AC 120V 60Hz
   * Battery Back-up (1 x 9V/not included) 

About Sparkle Bee:    

We've created over 100 products you know and love. In 2001, Marino Andriani, after leaving his position as President of Emerson Radio, started MALLC with the idea of designing and producing quality consumer electronics products specifically for girls and women. Marino first acquired the Hello Kitty license for North America and within a few years expanded his distribution to every continent in the world. From distinctive clock radios and telephones, MALLC eventually covered just about every possible electronic product Hello Kitty could make.

MALLC then expanded into small appliances with toasters that made toast with Hello Kitty's face on them, to waffle makers and sandwich makers also with the ability of imprinting the world's favorite cat face onto the food these products made. Between 2005 and 2009 Marino made products for Strawberry Shortcake, Tweety and American Idol although Hello Kitty remained the company's #1 brand. For 2011 MALLC will roll out Paul Frank products which will be high styled with step up features that Marino Andriani has become famous for.

This review and giveaway was sponsored by:

This post was written for Sparkle Bee and Southard Communications who provided the Hello Kitty™ AM/FM Stereo Alarm Clock Radio w Top Loading CD Player. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary product. My opinion is my own.

P.S.:  Be sure to check out my new fan page for Did You See That? on Facebook!

The Not-Its!: Tag, You're It! (music review and giveaway)

AMERICA’S MOST ROCKIN’ KINDIE BAND THE NOT-ITS!

SHOW KIDS AND PARENTS EVERYWHERE HOW TO ROCK

NEW CD ‘TAG, YOU’RE IT!’ RELEASE DATE, JUNE 28, 2011

[The Not-Its!] “have hit a sweet spot with a nice combination of an indie sound, great melodies, and enough rock to satisfy us aging ‘80s and ‘90s alt-rock kids.”

–Bill Childs, Parenting Magazine

Tag, You’re It!

For ages 3 - 10.

Release date: June 28, 2011. SRP: $14.99

Run time: 31:36

From the PR Firm: Those 10 and under, listen up! Award-winning independent children’s recording artists The Not-Its! are on the scene with their highly anticipated third studio CD, Tag, You’re It!. (Little Loopy Records, SRP: $14.99, run time 31:36, Release Date: June 28, 2011. Distributed by Burnside Distribution Corporation.)

For over two years now, kids and parents alike are flying to their feet in a rock n’ roll frenzy in response to the power-pop sounds and four-part harmonies of Seattle-based recording artists, The Not-Its!. With their third record, Tag, You’re It!, the band wastes no time in giving fans more of the deliciously catchy tunes that make kids move and parents groove.


The lovely lead vocals of Sarah Shannon are strong and true, and have for years been an indie favorite. In the 90s, Shannon fronted the successful Sub-Pop indie band, Velocity Girl; with The Not-Its!, the indie-pop-rock musical sensibilities carry over, and kid-friendly lyrics round out these carefully crafted jams. Tag, You’re It! is lush with musical variety, packed solid with high-energy tempos and lyrics that speak to the kid mentality. The first track, “Freeze Tag” sets the pace and proves The Not-Its! are here to rock with crunchy guitars, thundering drums, and whip-smart lyrics encouraging kids to drop the video games, get outside, and “run around, run, run around…make like a pop-pop-pop popsicle frozen!”


Tag, You’re It! continuously blasts infectious melodies and presents positive messages for kids as well as fun-listening tunes for all ages. “Mathematics,” sung by both rhythm guitarist Danny Adamson and Shannon, is reminiscent of a Weezer hit with lyrics that bring the listener into the mind of a child: “I like so many things at school, my brain quadruples in size with mathematic fuel.” “Keep On Tryin’” offers The Not-Its!’ signature rock styling and resolutely empowers kids, encouraging them to not give up when things get tough. The CD gets playful with tracks like “Puppy Dog” and “TV’s Watching Me.” “Carry Me” and “Butterfly” are the two slow-tempo tracks on the record, showing off this band's incredible versatility and its soft, loving side. Tag, You’re It! showcases remarkable musicianship alongside the kind of smart, insightful lyrics that only parents could write and that only The Not-Its! could pull off with such contagious playfulness and enthusiasm.


In 2009, The Not-Its! electrified the kindie music scene with the release of their first record, We Are The Not-Its!. The band received a Fids and Kamily Music Award for one of the best family music albums of 2009—a rare honor for a brand new music group. Kids’ music authority Stefan Shepherd of Zooglobble enthused of the title track, “‘We Are The Not-Its!’ is one of the two or three best theme songs ever … this album rocks.” According to Jeff Bogle of Out With The Kids, “The disc’s a treat, one that your kids should be allowed to gobble up as often as they wish.” The Australian website, Babyology, wrote, “It’s rare that I really enjoy every track on an album … the whole album is thoroughly enjoyable. Every note of this album works beautifully.” Amy Kraft of Media Macaroni explained, “I love it when we find albums that [my daughter] and I both like to listen to. They’ve got a great rockin’ sound, and the songs are immediately accessible to kids.”


In summer 2010, The Not-Its! released their second album, Time Out To Rock, and the media and public response was incredible. Time Out New York KIDS called Time Out To Rock, “the kindie music equivalent to a summer movie blockbuster,” and Christina Refford of Cool Mom Picks claimed “songs like ‘Green Light, Go!’ are so cool, I'd play them louder if I wasn't worried about things like my kids' eardrums.” Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel said, “This is an album that you crank up and dance around the room to with your kids. Time Out To Rock is 100% pure unadulterated fun. This album is chock full of great riffs, great song writing, and an all around great time.” The Everett Herald expressed to readers that, “If you dig kiddie mosh pits, love the sound of Blondie or the B-52s and like tights and skinny ties, you are a parent who will approve of The Not-Its!”


My take: Get ready to rock!  No, seriously! Because the Not-Its! have an awesome new CD filled with fun songs to sing and dance to.  It opens with a very upbeat (and LOUD :-)  "Freeze Tag" that happens to be my favorite song on the disk (I had forgotten all about that childhood game - sure brought back memories) - and it's also a favorite of mine to wake my daughter up with :-)  I load it up on her CD player and it works better than any alarm clock.  The rest of the disk is just as fun - from the fun tunes "Hot Sand" (appropriate for us since we live near the beach!) to the inspirational "Gotta Keep On Tryin’" (led to a great discussion with both kids on the value of perseverance), to the track my daughter likes the most "Carry Me" (the dad's responses to his daughter's plea to "carry me" cracked us all up), the Not-Its! have a new hit on their hands.  What I like about this band is their ability to write and perform songs that my kids and I both enjoy.  There is not a saccharine sweet song in the bunch - just a whole lot of fun.  Read below for how you can win your own copy.

Song List:

1. Freeze Tag

2. Vacation

3. Mathematics

4. I’ve Got A Goat

5. TV’s Watching Me

6. I Love Food

7. Hank Is A Rock Star

8. Great To Be A Kid

9. Hot Sand

10. Puppy Dog

11. Butterfly

12. Gotta Keep On Tryin’

13. Carry Me

About the Band Members: Now a mother of two young girls (3 and 5), Sarah Shannon has recorded two solo albums (www.sarahshannon.com) since her tenure with Velocity Girl. A fortuitous run-in with an old friend, rhythm guitarist Danny Adamson, in 2008 unearthed the desire for the two of them to gather together their indie-musician-friends-gone-parents in an effort to continue making music in a way that included their families. Adamson spent much of the 90s touring the country in Seattle-area punk bands before becoming the father of two boys (now ages 6 and 8). Bassist/backup singer Norea Hoeft is a volunteer for Rain City Rock Camp for Girls, as well as a grant writer (www.bukotree.com) for non-profit organizations and a mother of two (8 months and 7 years). Lead guitarist Tom Baisden is an elementary school teacher for special needs children who was honored by Seattle Public Schools as the city’s 2010 “Special Education Outstanding Educator of the Year.” He is the father of two (ages 4 and 7) and a member of Seattle-based rock band, Mostly Dimes. Drummer Mike Bayer is an unsung leader in Seattle’s flourishing artistic community, devoting his time to the creation and management of a brand-new artist space in Seattle’s SODO district; he also teaches drum lessons to youth and plays music with indie-country-rock band, Joseph Giant.

Availability: Tag, You’re It! will be available online at www.wearethenot-its.com, iTunes, amazon.com, cdbaby.com, and through Burnside Distribution Corporation.

Check out The Not-Its! website at www.wearethenot-its.com

The giveaway:  WIN IT BEFORE YOU CAN BUY IT!  One lucky winner will win his/her very own copy of the Tag, You're It! CD! {US ADDRESS ONLY PLEASE - I'm paying for the shipping myself!}

To win: Leave me a comment telling me something else in the Not-Its! Shop you like. Be sure to leave your email address with your comment if you are not a blogger or your email is not easily found on your blog. This giveaway is open until 11:59 p.m., EST, Tuesday, August 23, 2011. Good Luck!

Bonus entries: Get up to 8 extra entries for a total of 9 entries (please leave a separate comment for each extra entry):

• Blog about this giveaway (don't forget to leave the link in your comment)
• Share this giveaway on any of your Social Networking sites (like Twitter and/or Facebook) and come back here with a link to your post/tweet (you can have up to two entries - be sure to leave 2 comments)
• Follow me on Twitter (leave a comment with your twitter id)
• Subscribe to my blog via RSS or Email (see top left sidebar)
• Add my blog to your blogroll or my button to your sidebar (leave your website address for verification)
• On Technorati - click on this link, then on Fan or Fav
• Follow me on Google Friend Connect (see top left sidebar)

P.S.:  Be sure to check out my new fan page for Did You See That? on Facebook!

P.P.S.: New Facebook rules do not allow contest entries for "Liking" facebook pages but you can follow the Not-Its on Facebook here if you'd like.

This review was sponsored by Michelle Sanders Communications who provided the CD for review and giveaway. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary CD.