Note to Self

Note to Self: On Keeping a Journal and Other Dangerous Pursuits

by Samara O'Shea (Author)
List Price: $19.95

Hardcover: 192 pages
Publisher: Collins Living (July 22, 2008)

"I plan to observe, enjoy, criticize, taste, touch, and smell the world around me and document it all in notes to myself. I highly recommend you do the same." --Samara O'Shea

Product Description: Keeping a journal is easy. Keeping a life-altering, soul-enlightening journal, however, is not. At its best, journaling can be among the most transformative of experiences, but you can only get there by learning how to express yourself fully and openly. Enter Samara O'Shea.

O'Shea charmed readers with her elegant and witty For the Love of Letters. Now, in Note to Self, she's back to guide us through the fun, effective, and revelatory process of journaling. Along the way, selections from O'Shea's own journals demonstrate what a journal should be: a tool to access inner strengths, uncover unknown passions, face uncertain realities, and get to the center of self. To help create an effective journal, O'Shea provides multiple suggestions and exercises, including:

• Write in a stream of consciousness: Forget everything you ever learned about writing and just write. Let it all out: the good, bad, mad, angry, boring, and ugly.
• Ask yourself questions: What do I want to change about myself? What would I never change about myself?
• Copy quotes: Other people's words can help you figure out where you are in life, or where you'd like to be.
• It takes time: Don't lose faith if you don't imme­diately feel better after writing in your journal. Think of each entry as part of a collection that will eventually reveal its meaning to you.
  

O'Shea's own journal entries reveal alternately moving, edgy, and hilarious stories from throughout her life, as she hits the party scene in New York, poses naked as an aspiring model, stands by as her boyfriend discovers an infidelity by (you guessed it) reading her journal, and more. There are also fascinating journal entries of notorious diarists, such as John Wilkes Booth, Anaïs Nin, and Sylvia Plath.

A tribute to the healing and reflective power of the written word, Note to Self demonstrates that sometimes being completely honest with yourself is the most dangerous and rewarding pursuit of all.

When I was a young girl, of an age I've forgotten now, I began writing in a journal. I kept up with the practice through high school, never faithfully, but always attempting (resolving) to do so more regularly. I think I still have these journals tucked away in an attic corner. And if I went to pull them out, I'm sure I'd laugh now at all those days of hormonal angst and cry at all those days of dark depression. I was a completely different person then, one I wouldn't remember at all so I'm grateful I have those journals to look back on (one day, when I gather to courage to find them). These days, I journal with my private blog. At times it is simply a recitation of "a day in the life" of me and of my family. Other days, I waxed philosophically on issues that have great meaning to me and I hope, to my friends who read there. I've never considered myself a "writer" but I think now, after blogging these last few years, that there exists a "writer" in all of us and it is up to us to help her (or him!) emerge.

Samara O'Shea's book is an excellent starting point for anyone thinking of journaling - she has practical advice throughout on the technical ins and outs of writing a journal. But more importantly, for me anyway, she gives us the emotional wherewithal for journaling - and shows us how to be true to ourselves along the way. I highly recommend this book for everyone who reads - if you keep a journal now, in the past or in the future, or even not at all, this book should be required reading for everyone. And? She has a chapter on sex. Explicit sex. Thought that would grab your attention.

Note to Self is available at: Amazon , Barnes & Noble , Book Sense , Borders and Powell's .

See her book "trailer" (very funny!) at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EonRzGojzAo

About the Author
Samara O'Shea is the author of For the Love of Letters: A 21st-Century Guide to the Art of Letter Writing as well as a blogger for The Huffington Post (where you can sign up to get email alerts when she posts...I did!) Samara's website: http://letterlover.net/ ; her Facebook page is http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=824404125

**WIN IT! I have a brand new copy of Notes to Self to give away - generously provided by the publisher. To win, leave me a comment here telling me if you keep a journal or a blog and the main reason why you do so. As usual, I'll pick a winner at random with random.org. LEAVE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS WITH YOUR COMMENT OR YOU WILL BE DISQUALIFIED. Giveaway is open until 11:59, EST, Tuesday, July 29, 2008. Good Luck!**

Jishaku™: The Game of Magnetic Action

Jishaku™'s tag line is "The Game of Magnetic Action." I have a suggestion for another tag line: "Jishaku™: bringing back family game night." Because this game will bring everyone back to the (game) table! Jishaku™ is not like your standard Monopoly, Trivial Pursuit or other family board games; this game is like nothing I've ever seen and at a recent family gathering, it was a blast to play and left us all laughing.

The inventor of Jishaku™, Steve Velte, has a degree in electrical engineering which he used to create this game, a game "aimed at tweens, teens and adults, where the power of magnets allows the force to be with you (or not!)."

“I think this is the first game to make people jump out of their chairs,” laughs the Florida-based game maker, “when two or three stone magnets attract, players literally jump with surprise.” Jishaku™ (jee-shah-koo) is "a patent-pending portable strategy game like chess or checkers that can be played anywhere – in the kitchen or at the beach. But unlike chess, the element of surprise is when the magnet jumps out of position, without warning. Surprise, then laughs, follow as two or more players try to beat the force fields with strategic thinking plus careful and precise handling of the game’s magnetic stones."

How does it work?

Jishaku™ (Japanese for magnet) uses 18 finely polished hematite magnets for playing pieces and a foam insert where "the force fields are teased to stay apart or jump together." There are several variations of the game (emptying your “hand” with “I’m Out!”, Roundup and Elimination) but the most popular is "I'm Out". While alternating turns with your opponent(s), the goal of the game is to place magnets onto the game base - without letting any magnets connect. If any magnets connect on your turn, you must collect those magnets and add them to your pile. The first person to run out of magnets wins. But there is a twist. All magnets have North and South poles. Jishaku™ magnets do too. They just aren't marked. So as you carefully place your magnet in a hole you can feel the tug of magnets all around the board. Skilled players learn to use magnetic force in their favor- repelling the magnets closest to them without forcing them into other magnets. “In Jishaku™ it matters not only where you place your stones but also how you place each one,” explains Velte. “All magnets have north and south poles and a magnetic field. Study the effect your magnet has on the stones around it. It will attract some and repel others. How you manage that interaction determines your fate.”

The game is designed for two or more players (ages 8 and up - "DO NOT play this game without adult supervision if you have small children in the house or if someone playing of any age is prone to placing things in their mouth.") and complete instructions are included (and are online as well). You can also go to their website to see a video clip of the game in action. The official launch was June 3, 2008 and the game has already won two awards!

• Jishaku™ wins "Major Fun Award" Click here to see the review
• Jishaku™ wins Prestigious Mr. Dad Seal of Approval Click here for the full Press Release

To order online or to find a store nearest you, visit Play Jishaku. Jishaku™ retails for $19.95 and you can use DIDUCTHAT for 10% off (expires 7/31/08).

OR

**WIN IT!! Win your very own Jishaku™ game for your family board night! To win, leave a comment here telling me your families favorite board game. That's it! Giveaway is open until 11:59 p.m. EST, Wednesday, July 23, 2008. Good Luck!**

Rock Daddy Rock

From the producer that brought you TeacherAndTheRockbots.com and TheBlankies.com (see my review for The Blankies here), comes a brand new album:

Rock Daddy Rock!

Silly Short Songs For Silly Short People

© 2008 Chris Bihuniak

$12.99 Music CD / $9.99 Download at iTunes

"Silly Short Songs For Silly Short People" is the Rock Daddy Rock debut CD featuring eighteen, 1-2 minute songs in a variety of styles. The fun increases with comments and back-up vocals by the artist's four sons.

From Chris: "This music CD is for people that are tired of cheesy children's music and have a sense of humor about raising kids...

Families with a sense of humor will love the Rock Daddy Rock songs about everyday life. They were inspired by my four sons and their funny, gross and wonderful behaviors. Catchy 1-2 minutes songs keep the entertainment flowing and life lessons give each song a happy ending... or the chance to "ponder behavioral issues without sounding moralistic," as one mom put it.

In 2004, after quiting my corporate job, I co-produced albums for Teacher and the Rockbots and The Blankies. The success of these award-winning educational songs gave me the opportunity to do the Rock Daddy Rock solo project. This time, the inspiration came from my kids.

'Silly Short Songs For Silly Short People' combines an assortment of styles ranging from Rock, Pop, Blues, Rap, Reggae and Adult Contemporary with the goal of appealing to adults too. The fun increases with comments and back-up vocals by my boys."

Just like the Blankies, my kids and I loved this CD, particularly when Chris' sons chimed in. Rock Daddy Rock is a great way to sneak in some life manners while having fun (since apparently, hearing me tell them not to hit each other for the millionth time just isn't cutting it, maybe this will work!). Just this morning, my 3 year old daughter asked me to play the songs over again and again on our way to school - "turn that song on again mommy!" And as her mom, I was only too happy to play the music again - you can't beat music for kids that is fun, educational and not just another rendition of traditional nursery rhymes!

Check out the titles on these funny songs:

Boogers...use a tissue
Don't Hit, Don't Spit...you better get over it
Wart...one day it will go away
When You Grow Up...who will you be?
Biter...two wrongs don't make a right
The Lecture...a hug and a kiss or two
Where is the Bathroom?...don't keep it in
Your Room's A Mess...clean it up
Don't Pass The Gas...go outside
Dirty Nails...where have they been?
Diaper...a good dad helps out
Do The Burp...don't do the burp
Green...your diet should be healthy
Tears of Joy...happy birthday mommy
Time for Bed...without nightmares
Because I Care...I just want you to be safe
Gun (Peace Sign)...the peace sign
Turn it Off...make your own reality

**WIN IT!! Chris has generously offered to give away FIVE copies of this CD to FIVE LUCKY WINNERS!!! To win, email me at cpamomva [at] hotmail [dot] com and tell me "At what age did Chris write his first song?" Giveaway is open until 11:59 p.m. EST on Monday, July 21, 2008. Good Luck!**

Princess Linens®

The first time I visited the Princess Linens® website, my first thought was, just what DOESN'T Princess Linens® have to offer? I mean seriously, check out the product list on their main page (as an aside - that beautiful pink dress pictured here, was worn by Suri Cruise recently):

"We offer personalized baby gifts, monogrammed baby clothes, john johns, rompers, jumpers and dresses, baby shower gifts, new baby gifts, sibling gifts and toys. We also specialize in personalized toddler gifts and sibling gifts, baby scrubs, infant scrubs, toddler scrubs, Doodlebugz Crayola crayon keepers, doodlebags, crayon aprons, and crayon toolbelts, chef apron and hat set and chalkboard placemats."

Wowsa! Where to start? How about with these adorable "scrubs" - I can just picture dressing a toddler in them on the way to the hospital to pick up his new baby sister or brother!

"My First Scrubs are perfect for the doctor or nurse-to-be! Tiny versions of the real ones that doctors and nurses wear everyday.My First Scrubs are the perfect baby shower gift, new baby gift and sibling gift! Now available in sizes up to 4T in three colors:Lab Green, "No More Blues" Blue, and Candystriper Pink. Lab Green scrubs are available in larger sizes up to size 8!Currently larger sizes are only available in Lab Green. $28.00"

And take a look at the two sample products that were sent to me to check out. First up is this adorable Doodlebugz Crayola Crayon Keeper™. Featured in Parent's Magazine May 2007 issue, this crayon roll holds up to 64 crayons in a small bag - perfect for taking on vacation (like we did!) or to restaurants.

It comes with a box of 24 washable Crayola crayons and holds up to 64 (two fit in a pocket). It fastens securely for easy carrying and it is perfect everywhere kids go! But perhaps the best benefit is that there are no more crayons cluttering mom's purse! Made of 100% cotton. Machine wash, tumble dry low after removing crayons.
$14.00. Personalization optional (add $10).

We also received this Doodlebugz™ Crayola Doodlebag. Not only does it hold crayons, it has a small chalkboard that my son loved to "doodle" on at our many restaurant stops during our recent road trip.

• 10 Crayola washable crayons
• Pad of Paper
• 5 pieces of Crayola Chalk
• Mini Chalk Board

Front pocket perfect for stickers This handy art bag comes complete with what any toddler will need to keep them busy on-the-go! It opens to reveal a pad of paper and 10 Crayola washable crayons with additional pockets to hold your child's favorite Crayola colors. Turn the page and start a whole new adventure with chalk and a mini chalkboard. Complete with an eraser and 5 colorful pieces of Crayola chalk, the Doodlebag also has numerous pockets can hold additional chalk if desired. It even has a front pocket perfect to hold stickers and a zipper closure to keep everything in place when not in use.
$25.50 Personalization optional (add $10).

About Princess Linens®
Princess Linens® makes quality personalized clothing for boys and girls as well as clever toddler gifts designed to inspire creativity whether at home or on-the-go. The clothing collections include rick rack trimmed sundresses, summer shortalls, corduroy dresses with diaper covers, john johns, bibs and burp pads. Doodlebugz™ Crayola™, a division of Princess Linens®, creates a terrific line of crayon keepers, aprons, purses, toolbelts, and doodlebags that include Crayola® crayons and chalk. The Doodlebugz Crayola gift line and the high end clothing groups are available in fine boutiques, online, in several catalogs, and at many retailers across the country.

Like what you see? Head on over to Princess Linens® to check out all they have to offer. You can use the code CPAMOM to receive 15% off your purchases! or

**WIN IT! One lucky reader will win a personalized Doodlebugz™ Crayola Doodlebag of their very own (a $35.50 value)! To win, leave a comment here telling me which Doodlebugz™ Crayola Doodlebag you would choose if you won, and who it would be for. Deadline for comments is midnight, EST, Wednesday, July 16, 2008. Good Luck!**

Nana Star: Generations

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. CONGRATULATIONS GILLIAN!

Four generations were involved in the creation of a new set of books that I was asked to review. It all started when Grandmother Elizabeth Owens (the original "Nana Star") created the character Nana Star "out of a great love for her little grandson, Vance, with a desire to give him sense of home wherever he was." Much later, two of her granddaughters (Elizabeth Sills and Elena Patrice) decided to put pen to paper and bring Nana Star to life in story books. The books’ illustrations were drawn by Elena’s and Elizabeth’s mother (daughter of Nana) Linda Saker.

“We developed our grandmother’s vision of Nana Star into a sweet, very simple, very edifying picture book series,” explained Elizabeth Sills, co-founder of the ee (pronounced double e) publishing and production company, the laugh-friendly company®. “The book has a more old-fashioned feel in order to promote traditional values such as kindness, generosity and compassion.” Adds her sister and business partner, Elena Patrice, fondly, “At the same time we wanted to remind children, as our grandmother reminded Vance, of how special and loved they are, no matter what. We hope that the stories cultivate young imaginations and inspire character all at the same time!”

Each Nana Star book includes an accompanying audio CD with the storybook and a sing-along song. To make the book a little more interactive, the authors have included a spelling mistake in each book and encourage readers to find it and send them a postcard with the correction. Children are then eligible to receive an 8x10 photo of the Nana Star costumed character and become an honorary member of the Nana Star Little Twinkles Club. The Club is expanded on its website, http://www.nanastar.com/, where language arts activities for emerging readers are offered.

The book and doll we received to review were the original Nana Star book and doll. My daughter was enchanted by how the doll was holding the star and tree branch just as we read it in the book. My son listened intently as we read the story, wondering how the little star was going to get home. We were all enchanted by the beautiful illustrations.

And not only are the books outstanding - the authors also decided that publishing the books was not enough - they wanted to make a difference with their Nana Star legacy. So they created the Nana Star Foundation. The foundation is dedicated to raising funds for terminally ill children and heightening awareness of the problems facing children attending inner-city schools. The small company also donates hundreds of books to such causes as Toys for Tots and First Book.

Awards won by the Nana Star series include:

• iParenting Media Award for Excellent Products of 2007 (for the website)


• Mom's Choice Awar® Finalist for Most Inspirational Children's Book


• Winner of Mr. Dad Seal of Approval and Great Dad Recommends

Bonus: Meet Nana Star: Lucky parents and children in the Washington DC area have been able to meet Nana Star when she visits schools, hospitals and libraries to the joy of Little Twinkles everywhere. Nana Star (ee’s own Elizabeth Sills) wears her blue princess dress and conducts storytime, singing, a language arts activity and if requested, a hug! Because community outreach is part of ee publishing & production’s corporate citizenship, Nana Star appearances are gratis. A donation to The Nana Star Foundation in lieu of an appearance fee is gratefully accepted. Visit their website, http://www.nanastar.com/, for details on booking a D.C. area appearance with Nana Star.

So where can YOU buy these amazing books with accompanying plush dolls? By calling 1-877-MY-NANASTAR or visiting amazon.com or online at the Nana Star website. On the Nana Star website, you can use the code DidYouSeeThat10 for 10% off all purchases through July 31, 2008.

--Nana Star • $15.95: First in a series, this book introduces Nana Star and the lost baby star she stumbles upon, making an ordinary day extraordinary. Book comes with bonus audio CD that includes The Nana Star Song performed by Nashville singer/songwriter Tricia Walker.

--Nana Star and the Moonman • $15.95: Second in a series, a comforting message about friendship and faith shines through this book for young readers who may not like the dark or are feeling lonely. The enclosed bonus audio CD includes The Moonman Song performed by Chloe Dolandis.

--Nana Star Gift Set: All boxed up for gift giving, a combination of hardcover book, and a soft Nana Star doll or Moonman plush. A 10% discount when you buy the set.

Adorable Nana Star Plushies –
--Moonman Lovey, a soft character doll whose head glows like the light of the moon and plays music, MSRP $19.99;
--Nana Star, a plush character doll carrying Baby Star on a branch, just like in the story, MSRP $21.99;

(A third plushie, Blue Wolf, a plush, stuffed animal that softly howls when his foot is pressed, is also expected this summer.)

About laugh-friendly company®
Sisters Elizabeth Sills and Elena Patrice trademarked their partnership the “laugh-friendly company” to reflect their philosophy of business and life. “We have been shushed our entire lives and wanted a place where we could be free to laugh out loud if we wanted,” said Elizabeth. The pair said they want to be able to laugh at both the bad and the good as it comes along.

They believe that the simple story of Nana Star will be a success in today’s society where it is hard for children to find appropriate role models. They also believe that parents will welcome a return to simpler, nostalgic times. “Marketing is very commercialized,” said Patrice, “and children are introduced to characters who are very mature.” The goal of ee publishing is to help families recapture calmer times in a hectic world.

For more information on the business, visit http://www.laughfriendly.com/, or to learn about its Nana Star products, click on http://www.nanastar.com/.

**WIN IT! One lucky winner will be able to choose the original Nana Star book with the Nana Star plushie OR the Nana Star and the Moonman with the Moonman Lovey plushie!! To win, go to the Nana Star website, look up where ee publishing & productions, llc. (the laugh-friendly company®) is located, and email the answer to me at cpamomva (at) hotmail (dot) com by midnight, EST, July 14, 2008. Good Luck!

The Pregnancy Journal

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. CONGRATULATIONS MELISSA!

The Pregnancy Journal: A Day-to-Day Guide to a Healthy and Happy Pregnancy

by A. Christine Harris

List Price: $19.95

Spiral-bound: 206 pages
Publisher: Chronicle Books; Spi Rev edition (January 20, 2005)
Language: English

Product Description: "Since its publication in 1996, this definitive journal for expectant families has sold over a million copies. Author A. Christine Harris brings a revised and thoroughly updated edition to today s parents-to-be. Still featuring daily entries, a personalized timeline, and pregnancy glossary, the revised edition provides a clearer picture of the baby's in-utero development and the latest advice about giving a growing baby every advantage prior to birth."

When I was pregnant with my first child, I did a lot of research. I wanted to know exactly what was going on with my body and my baby. I remember finding a website that showed how the baby was developing week by week and I printed those pages out and put them in a 3-ring binder so I could read it as the pregnancy developed (I really did!). I read as many books as I could get my hands on and quizzed my doctor endlessly. I wish I this Pregnancy Journal had been around because truly, it looks to be the best book I've ever seen for the type of information I had been craving.

The journal is organized into chapters:

Chapter 1: Personalizing the Pregnancy Journal
Chapters 2 through 10: Lunar Month 1 - 9*
Chapter 11: Full Term Plus
Chapter 12: Labor and Delivery Details (including a few pages to fill in about your new baby and the world around him)
Glossary/Index

*"development is measured in lunar months, not calendar months, which consist of 28 days organized into four weeks of seven days each"

At the beginning of each Lunar Month chapter, there is a page that has "things to do this month" and each day of the journal has some detail about your baby and a separate fact about you and your pregnancy, and sections called "For Your Health", "Did You Know" and "Parenting Tips." At the bottom of each page is a quote from a literary or historical figure - two of my favorites are: "People who say they sleep like a baby usually don't have one" by Leo J. Burke and "The most important thing a father can do for his children is love their mother" by Theodore Hesburgh (which happens to be on a framed print in my son's room). And I love that the book is spiral bound - seems like that would make it a lot easier to write in. This journal is a must-have for anyone you know who is contemplating pregnancy or just got pregnant (you'll want to have this from the very beginning!)

About the author: A. Christine Harris, Ph.D. is a professor of Psychology at Cosumnes River College, chair of the college's Behavioral Sciences Department, coordinator of the Women's Studies Program, and author of the book Child Development.

Two companion books also sold by Chronicle Books, and written by A. Christine Harris are: Baby's First Year Journal : A Day-To-Day Guide to Your Baby's Development During the First Twelve Months (Spiral-bound) and The Toddler Journal : A Week-By-Week Guide to Your Toddler's Development from Ages 1 to 3 (Spiral-bound).

This amazing journal is available for purchase on the Publisher's Website or at Amazon.com and you can find other reviews of The Pregnancy Journal in Storknet and The New York Times.

**WIN IT!! I'm giving away my brand new copy of this journal because I will not be having any more babies and have no need for it. If you want to win it, leave a comment here telling me who the book will be for if you win it. YOU MUST LEAVE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS WITH YOUR COMMENT OR YOU WILL BE DISQUALIFIED. Giveaway is open until midnight, EST, Thursday July 3, 2008. Good luck!**

Mother Talk

Oopsie Dazie!

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. CONGRATULATIONS ICE CREAM MAMA!

Oopsie Dazie - Creative Hair Accessories for your Girly Girl!

"Clips so cute you'll buy outfits to match!"

The founder and designer of Oopsie Dazie is a stay at home mom of two, and she decided to start her own business, "making unique, trendy and affordable hair accessories for babies thru tweens!" And what a wonderful business it is. Cindy mailed me three samples of her work and I am very impressed!

We received two Baby Gator Clips w/Grip Strip [(0-2 years or thin/fine hair) $2.00 each] and one Spring Clip [(3 years and up) $3.00 each] (those are baby gator clips in the picture above). I use clips every day on my daughter's fine hair (holding back bangs as we grow them out). Regular clips usually slip right through her hair and get lost. Not so with these Oopsie Dazie clips! The "Grip Strip" kept that clip in her hair through hours of play. And they are gorgeous too!

The ordering process looks simple enough as well - the hard part would be choosing the fabric!:

"How to Order:
Step 1: Choose your ribbon and clip type in the order boxes at the bottom of the page
Step 2: Allow us to add the perfectly matched topper
Step 3. If you prefer gems, buttons, flowers, etc., add those instructions in the comments section when you checkout."

Besides clips, Oopsie Dazie also has:

--Bows $3 and $4

--Headbands $5 and $6

--Headwraps $1.50, $3 and $5

--Ponies $3

--Clip Caddies $10 and $18

--Bobbies $2 and $3 (spell out your child's name on a bobby pin! very cool!)

Bonus? FREE SHIPPING to U.S. and Canada residents!

**WIN IT! Cindy is graciously offering a giveaway of any two products of your choice (not including the clip caddies) to one winner! To win, cruise on over to Oopsie Dazie and leave me a comment here telling me the fabric and style you'd choose if you win. BE SURE TO LEAVE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS WITH YOUR COMMENT or you will be disqualified. Giveaway ends Monday, June 30, midnight, EST. Good Luck!**

Living The Dream

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. CONGRATULATIONS BUDDHA GIRL!

If you didn't win and you'd like to buy a t-shirt, use the coupon code 14blog to get 15% off! The code is good until July 31st !

LTD Chix

"Did you ever "dream" life would be like this?

Apparel for Mom's Like You!

Living the Dream: Fun Apparel for On-the-go Moms with a Sense of Humor

What happens when a former account executive (Nina Frye), and a former CPA and corporate financial analyst (Cindi Schmitzer) "trade in everyday jobs to pursue the challenges of raising children?" They start Living the Dream of course! And they've developed a line of t-shirts to reflect the "dream" all of us moms are living.

The tee-shirts (and new! a pack of 10 notecards) come in 10 different designs, all of which I would LOVE to have in MY wardrobe one day because each one reflects a different part of my life so perfectly:

This is the Working tee I received for review (click on the link). The shirt is a beautiful aqua "100% cotton jersey crew neck with contrasting white trim at the neck, cuffs and hem." It fits perfectly and suits me perfectly (the description on the web site? Perfect for me, as a mom with a full time job outside the home! "Who says you can’t have it all? Working mothers unite! You can indeed bring home the bacon and fry it up in 30 seconds in the microwave. What you can’t have are expensive, dry-clean-only suits in light colors. Or makeup that's applied before you get to the office. Or on-time appointments. Or matching shoes all the time. But other than that, you can so pull this off. ")

LTD Chix has several sizing choices too since we all know Moms do not come in any one shape or size!:

Fitted T-shirts - They are soft, comfortable, fitted t-shirts that run small, please order one size up.S (2-4) M (6-8) L (8-10) XL (10-12) - these are approximate sizes.

Loose-fitting T-shirts - They are a more loose-fitting style that runs true to size. S (4-6) M (8-10) L (10-12) XL (12-14) 2XL (Plus size) - these are approximate sizes.

Long sleeve T-shirts - Soft, comfortable, fitted long sleeve t-shirts that run small, please order one size up.S (2-4) M (6-8) L (8-10) XL (10-12) - these are approximate sizes.

Thermals - very light weight and soft. They do not shrink and run big. Please order one size down.XS (4-6) S (6-8) M (8-10) L (10-12) XL (12-14) 2XL (Plus size) - these are approximate sizes.

And I'm not the only one who loves this company. LTDchix was named a Top 100 Home-Based Business in America !

And something exciting right now? They are having a contest and you could be a big winner! In their own words:

"Hello Everyone, Soon it will be time to present our 2 new latest designs for the fall/winter season. However, instead of Cindi and I deciding what they would be, we are offering our LTDchix fans a chance to participate in the creation of these designs. We will be introducing a new “Mom" and the latest news is that we will also be introducing a new “Dad” line. We would love your help with ideas. Please submit your idea for a new mom and/or dad. The winner will win a free t-shirt with their winning design and recognition on our site with your photo wearing the t-shirt. Please email ideas in detail along with how many kids if any, should be included in the design. Written descriptions are welcome as well as drawings. Please note that the drawings should be simple and to the point. They cannot contain too much filler otherwise, the t-shirt looks too busy. The contest is for one month and will be open from June 15 – July 15, 2008. Please submit your descriptions and drawings to info@ltdchix.com. Thank you and look forward to receiving all of your great ideas. Good luck!"

**WIN IT!! LTDchix is generously giving one lucky winner a t-shirt of their choice!! To win, go to their website and tell me the name of their illustrator in an email to me at cpamomva at hotmail dot com (subject line: LTD CHIX). Giveaway is open until midnight, Friday the 27th of June, EST. Good Luck!**

Baby Gizmo Buying Guide

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. CONGRATULATIONS JENN!

The Baby Gizmo Buying Guide: From Pacifiers to Potties . . . Why, When, and What to Buy for Pregnancy Through Preschool

by Heather Maclean with Hollie Schultz

(the Mom Editors and Founders of BabyGizmo.com and Creators of the Award-Winning Little Laureate Series - see my review of that awesome product here)

List Price: $16.99

Paperback: 480 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (February 12, 2008)

Product Description from Amazon.com: "The Baby Gizmo Buying Guide is the first comprehensive baby product reference book designed to go to the store with you. Instead of what to buy, Heather Maclean, a mom and founder of the Little Laureate and Baby Gizmo websites, will teach you how to buy more than 400 different types of baby products. Featuring definitions, product history, and key features, this is a real-life, everything-you-need-to-know resource. It includes advice on whether you really need a product, when to buy it, and how long your baby will use it. This guide will help you make the right purchase the first time to match your unique lifestyle and needs. It is designed to help you be a smarter, more efficient baby product shopper-to keep your thoughts and research organized and to get you in and out of the store in record time. The great writing and fun "been there, really do understand what you are going through" tone will make this guide every expectant parent's favorite book."

From the back cover: "You've waited your whole life to get your hands on that magic baby product scanning gun. And it's brilliant fun. For the first three hours. And then it gets downright overwhelming...You're a smart chick-why is this so hard?" [AMEN, sister! I have two degrees and a professional license - and still had a hard time figuring out what my baby really needed!] This buying guide tells you:

• What you really need versus what's just nice to have
• Which products to include (and not!) on your baby registry
• The best time of year to buy certain items
• Which products to store in the perfectly packed diaper bag
• How to avoid the "bad baby product buying cycle"
• Even which products can make you pretty (hint: see page 163)"

This must have buying guide for all new moms is easy to follow; it is divided into chapters like Baby Carriers, Car Seats, Layette (or Bitty Baby Clothes), Safety Gates and Toys, all of which are organized alphabetically for ease of use. Other chapters include "contents of the perfectly packed diaper bag," "ten things we wish we knew when we were first-time moms", and a complete glossary "every baby product on the planet." Amazing. I only wish this book had been around the first time I had a baby!

**WIN IT! I have a brand new copy of the Baby Gizmo Buying Guide to give to one lucky winner! To win, simply leave a comment here telling me why you want it AND LEAVE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS WITH YOUR COMMENT. Giveaway is open until midnight, EST, Saturday, June 28, 2008. Good luck!**

Meet the Hippos

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. CONGRATULATIONS SUNNY LITTLE BLOG!!

Hip Hippos
Price $7.95
Board book
Pub. Date Apr. 30, 2008
Pages 18
Publisher Key Porter Books Limited



Sad, Mad, Glad Hippos
Price $7.95
Board book
Pub. Date Apr. 30, 2008
Pages 18
Publisher Key Porter Books Limited



One Hippo Hops
Price $7.95
Board book
Pub. Date Apr. 30, 2008
Pages 18 Publisher
Key Porter Books Limited


Hippos sad,
Hippos blue,
Having nothing
Else to do.
No books to read,
No games to play,
Hippos sad,
A real gray day.

From the publisher: "Meet the hippos—a lovable, zany crew ready to escort children and parents through the all-too-often boring concepts of counting, colours, and moods. But not this time! These hippos wear purple flip-flops and blue dungarees; they pull hair when they are angry (and end up in the time-out chair!) and sulk when they are sad; they jump out of planes with parachutes, and slide down snow-covered hills on sleds. And they even play in one awesome marching band!

Written by beloved children’s author Jane Yolen specifically for the youngest reader, and brought to life with Vlasta van Kampen’s rollicking, colourful art, this playful series features sturdy board-book construction (complete with rounded edges) that will stand the test of time. And that’s a good thing, since these three gems are bound to become “read it again” classics!"

Truly, these are "must have" board books to your children's library, no matter their age. Both my 5 and 3 year old loved these books. The cadence from the rhyming keeps their attention, as does the beautiful drawn illustrations of those droll hippos; even I look forward to reading these over and over again (and that's a true miracle as you mom and dads know after reading the same book, night after night after night). These amazing books from Key Porter Books are available at bookstores and specialty shops nationwide (for instance, Amazon.com). And be sure to check out The KP Wire, where you can find the latest book news for young readers: "If you're in the market for cool books, give-aways and generally fun stuff this is the place for you."

About the Contributor(s)
JANE YOLEN is one of North America’s most successful and respected authors for children. Among her best-loved titles are Owl Moon, Devil’s Arithmetic, How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight? and Briar Rose. Her list of awards includes the Caldecott Award, the World Fantasy Award, and two Christopher Medals.

VLASTA VAN KAMPEN’s award-winning children’s titles include: Beetle Bedlam, The Last Straw, ABC/123: The Canadian Alphabet and Counting Book, Orchestranimals, and Marigold’s Wings. Vlasta has earned numerous honours, including the Governor General’s Award, theGraphic Arts Illustrator Award, the 2001 IODE Award, and the Blue Spruce Award.

**WIN IT! The publisher is generously offering a full set of these wonderful books to one lucky reader! To win, head on over to Jane Yolen's website and find out the name of one of the many awards her books have won and email it to me at cpamomva {at} hotmail {dot} com. The giveaway is open until midnight, EST, Tuesday, June 24, 2008. Good Luck!**

It's New! It's Improved! Celebrate and Win!

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. CONGRATULATIONS THAT CHICK!

So you MIGHT have noticed the new look around here. Like the new look? I absolutely love the fresh new colors and I think it's a lot easier to read. And the header is perfect for me - I have short red hair too! It was a breeze to spiff up the place...because Revka did all the work for me!!!

I've posted about R S Designs before and also here :"I think Revka ROCKS! She did a wonderful complete re-design on my weight loss blog and it was so inexpensive too. She was very patient with me as I struggled to verbalize what I was looking for and she ended up just nailing it. I love, love, love my design over there. So much so, I'm hiring her to redesign this site as well."

And now she's finished the redesign. What do you think? Spiffy, no?

Check out Client Testimonials here, their Design Gallery here, and their Products and Pricing page here. Then get on over and place an order for your own re-design!

Now, to celebrate the new digs....a giveaway!! Here is a brand new pair of earrings I got at my last Premier Jewelry party. I never wore them because when they came in, I decided they just weren't me and so now they are looking for a new home. Do they appeal to you? Want to take them home? Just leave a comment here, any comment and I'll enter you in the drawing. Want FIVE extra entries? Put up my new button (grab the code of my sidebar) on your sidebar and leave a second comment here telling me the address of your blog. As always, be sure to leave your email address so I can contact you if you win. Giveaway closes at midnight, EST, Friday, June 13, 2008 (let's have a LUCKY Friday the 13th!). Good luck!!

The Crimson Portrait

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. CONGRATULATIONS MEG!

The Crimson Portrait: A Novel

by Jody Shields

List Price: $23.99
Hardcover: 304 pages
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company

From the publisher: "THE CRIMSON PORTRAIT, written by Jody Shields, was inspired by the little-known but extraordinary real-life collaboration between artists and surgeons in the treatment of injured men in World War I. THE CRIMSON PORTRAIT is a suspenseful tale of desire, deceit, and the metamorphosis of identity, as spellbinding and provocative as the author’s bestselling first novel, The Fig Eaters."

Product Description from Amazon.com: "This haunting love story--the magnificent new historical novel by the author of the national bestseller The Fig Eater--makes unforgettably real the ravages of love and war. Spring 1915. On a sprawling country estate not far from London, a young woman mourns her husband, fallen on a distant battlefield. The eerie stillness in which she grieves is abruptly shattered as her home is transformed into a bustling military hospital. Recoiling from the chaos, unhinged by grief, the young widow finds unexpected refuge in a tender young soldier whose face, concealed by bandages, she cannot see. Their affair takes a fateful turn when she confronts--and seizes upon--the opportunity to remake her lover in the image of her lost husband. THE CRIMSON PORTRAIT is a novel of glittering surfaces that belie dark truths. Its rich cast comes into focus as the novel peels back layers of suspense and intrigue to illuminate the abiding mysteries of affinity and desire."

Sounds intriguing, no? Except it wasn't. To be honest, reading this book was, for me, like watching paint dry. That's not to say it was a poorly written book at all; indeed, I think the book was well written in the poetic style. However, I was expecting a novel, not a poem. A keep-me-on-the-edge-of-my-seat novel and this just did not deliver. I kept on reading it though, not only because I needed to review it, but because I really wanted to know the ending - what happened with Catherine and Julian? Did Anna finally admit her love for Dr. Kazanjian? Unfortunately, the ended left me just as confused as I was at the beginning. I'm still wondering on those answers!

If you read the reviews on Amazon.com, you'll see that this is really a

"love it"{‘As full of emotional detail as The English Patient’ Los Angeles Times ‘Dark and atmospheric…wonderfully descriptive and poetic’ USA Today; ‘Compelling…exquisitely written…without a false line’ Washington Post}

or "hate it" {"Unbelievably dull. Reading this book was like sitting in a doctor's office waiting room book, nothing in between"} book.

Unfortunately, I'm in the latter camp. One out of Five Binkies.

About the Author: Jody Shields made her debut as a novelist with The Fig Eater, which was hailed as "an atmospheric thriller" (Los Angeles Times), "stylish and compelling" (Chicago Tribune), "a bewitching visit to late-imperial Vienna . . . enjoyable and intelligent" (Times Literary Supplement). She lives in New York. More about Jody Shields (click on the link).

You can go here to Read an Excerpt or **WIN IT - If you think you'd like to try this book on for size (do you like poetry? serious introspection? You may be in the "love this book" category), leave me a comment here and I'll draw one name at random to receive my gently used copy. Giveaway ends Thursday, midnight EST, June 12, 2008. Good Luck!**

Mabel's Labels

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. CONGRATULATIONS VALERIE (NON-BLOGGER)!

Long before Mabel's Labels asked me to review their products, I've been a fan. Labels of any kind fit right in with my *cough* "obsessive labeling disorder" (I'm sure that must be a real disorder!) Unfortunately, the labels made by my trusty Dymo just don't stand up too well to wear and tear, especially the labels I put on my kids' sippy cups, snack jars, and school supplies. And I can't use them at all on clothing (essential for keeping track of their spare clothes and their coats in day care and school). That's where Mabel's Labels saved the day.

Their first category of labels is the "Famous Sticky Labels": "Mabel’s sticky labels are famous the world over! They withstand the dishwasher, microwave, UV Rays and hard wearing children. Customers tell us tales of four-year-old labels still holding strong! Classic Stickies and Skinny-Minis™ are perfect for toys, containers, cups, bottles and more. Our Shoe Labels will amaze you! Our Bag Tags are incredibly durable and stylish on backpacks, luggage and zipper pulls. Allergy Alerts ensure that anyone who comes in contact with your child knows to take extra care."

Let me tell you, these are not exaggerated claims. I've had the same labels on my kids sippy cups for over a year and they look exactly the same. And the Allergy Alerts are God-sends as I put them all over everything my son carries to school. With school almost over, they are still good as new. There are five sticker types in the category (click on the links to see more):

classic stickies, skinny-minis, allergy alerts, shoe labels, bag tags


I was sent sample Shoe Labels for both of my kids and I immediately put these in their shoes. I've washed their shoes, they've worn them in mud, mulch and sweat and the labels have not budged.

"Shoe Labels measure 1.5" in diameter and come in packs of 24. Each name order is printed in white text on your choice of red, lilac or ocean blue labels. They fit nicely into the insole of the shoe and are shipped with protective overlays to ensure durability. Daycare workers and teachers love these labels. At the end of the day, all those little shoes look exactly the same! The name can be whatever you would like to a maximum of 20 characters. Names are printed exactly as you type them."



Next up - Clothing Labels: "The way they grow, children go through hundreds of items of clothing in a few years. Protect that investment with our clothing labels. They resist the wear and tear of laundry and children beautifully! The Iron-ons are the classic choice for clothing labels. The Tag-Mates™ (stick-in clothing labels) are ideal for quick labeling – no iron necessary! And nothing withstands the heat of feet – except our Shoe Labels. Our Bag Tags are incredibly durable and stylish on backpacks, luggage or zipper pulls. iron-ons, tag-mates, shoe labels, bag tags"


I was sent tag-mates for my son and my daughter and I stuck them right on some of their clothes, on the tags. And washed them. Over and over. Those labels have not moved or faded or changed in anyway. It's amazing!

"Tag-Mates™ measure 13/16" x 3/8" (21mm x 10mm) and come in packs of 75 for $21.00. Each name order is printed in your choice of blue or raspberry text on white labels. These are a super-convenient way to label clothes, stuffed pets and just about anything with a tag! These no-sew, no-iron, stick-on labels are applied to the care-tag labels and withstand washing, drying and wear and tear! The name can be whatever you would like to a maximum of 15 characters. Names are printed exactly as you type them."


Category 3: Combo Packs: "Mabel’s Combos have been developed based on customer feedback and are designed to save you some money when you have many labeling needs. The Big Combo includes all the labels you need to really protect your investments. The Camp/School Pack is everything you need to get ready for summer camp or school! big combo, camp/school pack "

Category 4: Household Labels: "Mabel’s Household Labels will keep you as organized as your kids! The Neat Freak Combo is a huge selection of labels for storage, sundries and spices (bin, canister and spice labels). The Crafter Pack will help you store the scissors, brushes, paints and punches you have amassed. Cord Control Labels will give you just that: control over the mess of chargers and cords in your house. The Curbside Labels will help your neighbors return your bins that have rolled down the street!Our Household Labels are all based on customer feedback; we know you’ll love them! neat freak combo, classroom pack, crafter pack , cord control, curbsides, canister and spice labels, bin labels "

Finally, Stationery Products: "We have a warm-spot in our hearts for lost art of letter writing, and it seems many of our customers do too! Thanks to overwhelming demand, we are pleased to introduce Stationery Products. You may choose from the basics: Return Address Labels or a complete Kit! return address labels , write on stationery kit "

Refund Policy
All Mabel’s Labels purchases are backed by a satisfaction guarantee. If you are not satisfied with any part of your order, return it to us for a full exchange or refund.

Bonus - something fun and useful on their site? A printable Summer Packing List for camp!

Try Mabel's Labels for yourself and discover how they beat all other labels, hands down! I give them 5 out of 5 binkies!

**Win it! I have a gift certificate for a Camp/Student Pack to give away to one lucky winner, worth $34.00 (courtesy of Mabel's Labels)! The pack consists of 15 Sticky Labels, 40 Iron-Ons or 50 Tag-Mates™ (your choice), eight Shoe Labels and two Bag Tags. This pack is perfect for summer camp or school. You may choose between the Standard Pack of red, green and blue labels, the Princess Pack™ in pink, lilac and raspberry, or the Ocean Colours of teal, purple and ocean blue! Iron-Ons are always printed blue on white. The name can be whatever you would like to a maximum of 20 characters. To win, just leave a comment telling me your favorite Summer Camp memory. If you didn't go to summer camp when you were a kid, just tell me your favorite summer time fun memory. LEAVE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS WITH YOUR COMMENT OR YOU WILL BE DISQUALIFIED - I have to be able to contact you if you win. Giveaway ends midnight, EST, Friday, June 6, 2008. Good Luck!**

Around the Table Games

THIS GIVEAWAY IS CLOSED.

CONGRATULATIONS "AMES!"

FAMILY TALK

from Around the Table Games™


May 27th is my 7 year wedding anniversary. Seven years and I'm still amazed at all I don't know about my husband yet. And don't get me started on how hard it is to get my kids to talk to us at dinner: "What did you do today?" "Nothing, I'm done now!" I know it's not going to get any better when they become teens either! Which is why I LOVE this new game called Family Talk. What a great family conversation starter for parents, children and relatives of all ages!

Three versions of the game, Family Talk, Family Talk 2 and Grandparent Talk™ are available (see below for detail - all three available on a clip or in a jar). “Our games are like taking the dinner time conversation with you, wherever you go,” explains Around the Table Games founder Beth Daniels, herself a working mom. “Because our games are made to be portable, the proverbial table discussions can now be held at the airport, during carpool, waiting in a long line or wherever people gather in the same place at the same time.”

Ideal for ages 4+, some of the questions from the Family Talk pack are: "If you could have chosen your own first name, what would it be?" and "What is your favorite story about you when you were younger?" Each deck of 100 cards is attached to a carabineer clip so a Mom or a Scout leader can clip the game to a backpack, purse or picnic basket. Anticipating a long wait at the airport? Whip out these questions and the time will fly. Stuck in traffic with the kids? Family Talk will encourage the kids to ask anything but “are we there yet?” And they are not just for your family! Use them with co-workers, teachers, church groups and corporate team building exercises.


Family Talk Clip $12.95

"Family Talk™ is the fun, easy and portable game that has families reconnecting through engaging conversation! Clip it to your purse, briefcase or backpack for portable family fun!

100 intriguing questions, such as:

What was dinnertime like when you were young?
What is one thing about each family member that makes you proud?

Family Talk is so uncomplicated that you can play it almost anywhere-around the dinner table, in the car or anyplace your family or friends congregates. Just draw a card, read the question and let the fun begin! Diverse topics reveal surprising answers - even from hard-to-talk-to teens. And with Family Talk, everyone's a winner!"



Grandparent Talk Clip $12.95

"Grandparent Talk™ is the fun and easy game that bridges generations while creating treasured memories. Clip it to your purse, totebag, or beach bag for portable family fun!

100 intriguing questions, such as:

Where did you hang out when you were a teenager?
What have you been able to do as a result of saving money?

Just draw a card, read the question and watch your family history unfold one question at a time. Grandparent Talk allows grandchildren and grandparents to learn more about each other while keeping family history relevant and alive! Diverse topics reveal how grandparents met the challenges of previous generations. Grandchildren and grandparents are often surprised to learn how much they have in common!"



Family Talk2 Clip $12.95

"Family Talk2 continues the fun, in an easy and portable game that has families reconnecting through engaging conversation! Clip it to your purse, briefcase or backpack for portable family fun!

Reconnect with your family using 100 intriguing questions, such as:

What is the most special day of the week in your home? What makes it so special?
Name some holidays that your friends may celebrate that you don't? Why is this so?

Family Talk2 is so uncomplicated that you can play it almost anywhere-around the dinner table, in the car or anyplace your family or friends congregates. Just draw a card, read the question and let the fun begin! Diverse topics reveal surprising answers - even from hard-to-talk-to teens. And with Family Talk, everyone's a winner!"

About Around The Table Games: Creator and owner of Around the Table games, Beth Daniels was blessed to have her grandparents and great-grandparents in her life for decades. Over the years, she realized that the more she learned about them, the better she understood herself. As a result, she treats the stories they shared as priceless gifts that she is determined to pass on to her own children. In fact, the first “version” Daniels made of her game was a simple pad of paper passed around the table at a Christmas family dinner where she invited everyone to jot down questions for Great Grandma. As an Occupational Therapist, wife and mother of two, Daniels understands all too well how active lives and busy schedules can prevent families from sharing the anecdotes and folklore that make a family a family. That’s why she created Family Talk and Grandparent Talk games as a fun way for families to reconnect. For more information, click on http://www.aroundthetablegames.com/

You can purchase these great games here and use code DYSTFMT for free shipping on their website

OR

**WIN IT! Win one of the games - you choose which of the three you want - just leave a comment here with a suggested question for future games or offer an idea for a future version of the game, and I'll pull a winner at random. LEAVE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS WITH YOUR COMMENT. Giveaway is open until midnight, EST, Wednesday, May 28, 2008. Good Luck!**

The Working Woman’s Pregnancy Book

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED! CONGRATULATIONS CATWOMAN!

The Working Woman's Pregnancy Book

by Marjorie Greenfield
Paperback: 584 pages
Publisher: Yale University Press; 1 edition (May 8, 2008)
List Price: $18.00

When I was pregnant with my first child back in 2002, I was working for a small non-profit company. We did not have enough employees to be covered by FMLA leave law but I was not concerned. Another woman had just had a baby and she saved up her sick and annual leave days and cobbled them together with STD to take 12 weeks off without a problem.

Then, half way through my pregnancy, my wonderful boss left the company, and her replacement (who happened to be a 40-something woman with no children and no plans for children, ever) told me to forget my plans. If I didn't come back to work 6 weeks post-partum, I was fired. It didn't matter I offered to work at home for those last 6 weeks of my 12 weeks off. I had to be physically in the office after 6 weeks. So I had no choice but to resign. And none of the pregnancy books available to me had helped me prepare for this reality. I would have loved to have had The Working Woman's Pregnancy Book at my side.

I'm not saying this book would have magically solv