Emily Allyn

Oh Where, Oh Where Have You Been?

2009-01-13T08:23:00.004-06:00

Exciting news on my homefront... which explains where I have been for the past week!

I am going back to school to become a paralegal. I spent last week getting my application turned in and trying to sign up for the only class I can take this Spring. That one class had 3-5 openings for 4 weeks. Then it happen to fill up the day I could register. Later that night, a spot opened up (someone had dropped the class). I went to register and had a hold was placed on my account. This was of course at 10pm, so no one was in the administrative offices to help me. I had to sweat it out all night hoping no one would take my spot. I woke up the next morning and called. Sure enough the hold was a mistake and they fixed it. I went to register and on the last step, my registration failed. Again I called and again it was their mistake. If you heard ringing in your ears last Wednesday, it might have been me screaming from Minnesota. But alas, I finally got into the class that day.

And the one lesson I learned... I'm not cut out for drama.

The good news is, since I already have a BA, this process is only going to take about 1-1/2 years!

What is going to happen with Emily Allyn, you ask? Good question. Emily Allyn will stay alive and kicking! No need to shop anywhere else for your basic infant and toddler needs. Stick with us and we'll take you places! As for the Emily Allyn blog. Finding amazing products to share with all of you has been a wonderful journey. I hope you have enjoyed it as much as I have. I am going to take some time to think about whether I can realistically keep up the blogging. I wouldn't want to short any of you!

So, I'll be back after I mull it over. (I'm sure the suspense is really killing you.)

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-23T08:55:00.000-06:00

From our home to yours, I hope you have a wonderful holiday season this year.
Thank you for your reader-loyalty and your business. I can't tell you how much we appreciate it!

I will be taking a little time off while those two little buggers pictured above are off school. I'll be back Monday, January 5th.

If you are relatively new and need your Emily Allyn Blog fix, feel free to read through some of our old posts. That ought to keep you busy (not that you're not busy enough these days)!

Last Minute Cookies

2008-12-22T09:43:00.000-06:00

Presents? Check. Christmas dinner menu? Check. Relatives know what time to come for Christmas? Check. Cleaning? Well, it's getting there. All my cookies are baked? Yikes, no, I still need more cookies. We have family coming Wednesday. We are going to the in-laws on Thursday. And we are heading up to the cabin for the weekend. I will need cookies for all the occasions. Plus, I will want to horde some for myself. I mean it is the holidays and all!

If you are still searching for some cookies to bake for the upcoming holidays, I have a recipe for you. I'm not kidding, every time I make these White Chocolate Raspberry cookies, people rave about them. They are delicious.

Ingredients:
8 oz white baking bar 1/2 cup butter (no substitutes, though I use unsalted, just my preference)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
2 eggs
2-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3 oz. white baking bar
1/2 tsp. shortening

Melt 4 oz. of the white baking bar over low heat (or follow package instructions for melting in microwave). Set aside to cool.

Beat butter in a large mixing bowl with for about 30 seconds or till softened. Add the sugar, baking soda, and salt. Beat till combined. Beat in the eggs and melted white baking bar till combined. Beat in as much of the flour till combined. Chop remaining 4 oz. of white baking bar and stir/mix into batter.

Drop batter by rounded spoonfuls onto greased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 7 to 9 minutes or until cookies are (very) lightly browned. Cool for a minute. Move cookies to wire rack and cool.

You can do the following step when cookies have cooled or right before serving.
Heat and stir the jam in small saucepan over low heat till melted. Spoon about 1/2 tsp. of jam onto top of each cookie. Heat remaining 3 oz. of white baking bar and shortening (I do not use the shortening). Drizzle each cookie with some of the melted white baking bar. Refrigerate about 15 minutes to firm chocolate, if necessary.

Makes about 48 delicious cookies.

Last Minute J.Crew

2008-12-17T16:04:00.002-06:00

J.Crew doesn't offer free shipping on any amount very often. Usually it's on $150 or more, which I say... whatever.
Anyway, when they do, I want to let you know about it!

Right now you can get free shipping on any amount PLUS there's up to 60% off a ton of products. Check it out and get yourself a little something this holiday season!

For free shipping enter code HURRY at checkout.

Our Winners

2008-12-17T14:15:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to all of the winners in our huge holiday giveaway contests! And a big thank you to each of you who entered. Keep a good watch on the Emily Allyn blog; you never know what will pop up next!

Raggedy Ann & Andy set: Ruby from Alabama
Brain Quest DS game: Shannon from Oklahoma
Brain Quest DS game: Carrie C.
Animal Genius DS game: Meredith from Arizona
Say Anything game: Marlena from Iowa
Yoga With Your Baby DVD: Tami from Texas
Fabulous Fun With Puzzles book: Kjessia from Minnesota
Travel Games for Dummies DS game: Deanna from Texas

Giveaway Round-up

2008-12-15T10:21:00.003-06:00

Today is your last chance to enter all of our giveaways!
All of the following will be closed by 11:59 (CST) tonight, Monday, December 15th.

Raggedy Ann and Andy
Brain Quest DS games (3 to giveaway)
Temporal Scanner
Travel GAmes for Dummies DS game
Yoga With Your Baby DVD
Fabulous Fun With Puzzles
Say Anything
Animal Genius DS game

Last time I'll say just how easy it is to enter! Simply send emilyallyn an email with the specified subject line. That's it! See each post for details.

Good luck!

Giveaway: Temporal Scanner

2008-12-12T12:47:00.000-06:00

Drumroll please...
We have come to our last giveaway for the year 2008. Though we had some amazing giveaways throughout 2008, these past two weeks have been incredible! Two full weeks chock-full of prize after prize! Now we have come to the end. And we end our two weeks of giveaways with the most practical of gifts, the Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer.

How many flippin' times has your child been sick and either your thermometer is dead or you seem to get a different reading every time? The other trick is getting your infant to sit still long enough to get an accurate armpit read. Then there is the dreaded rectal read. No mother wants to do that procedure because you really have no clue what you're doing. And I love it when the 5 year old sits with the thermometer under his tongue and waits and waits for the temperature and starts to spaz-out because he can't breathe with his nose being so plugged up. With all these problems it's no wonder someone finally came up with an easy solution.

"With a gentle stroke of the forehead [the temporal scanner] captures the naturally emitted heat from the skin over the temporal artery, taking 1,000 readings per second, selecting the most accurate."

This makes temporal scanning more accurate than ear scanning and the rectal read. Not to mention this product makes taking a temperature slick-as-a-slithering-snake. (Try saying that 10 times, and yes, I just made it up.) That ease and slickness comes in handy in the middle of the night when you are dealing with a sick child (or husband) and things tend to get a little stressful.

The cheapest I've seen the Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer is at Costco.com and Wal-mart for $25 - $30, which is a steal.

"It is the gentlest and most accurate method of temperature assessment in the world." And I'll add that it is the most easy to use!

Giveaway Alert!
The very kind people working to publicize this amazing product would love to giveaway a Temporal Artery Thermometer to one lucky winner!

What you need to do:
As always, easy. Simply send an email to emilyallyn and be sure to put Temporal Artery Thermometer in the subject. That's it!

The giveaway will end Monday, December 15th at 11:59 pm. The winner will be notified by email.

And if you don't win this time around, there will be other chances to win on the Temporal Scanner Facebook fan page.

Giveaway: Travel Games for Dummies

2008-12-11T19:46:00.002-06:00

Try explaining the title of a DS game to your 5 year old called, Travel Games for Dummies!

5 yr. old: "I thought dummy wasn't a nice word, Mom."

Mom: "It's not, honey."
5 yr. old: "Then why is this game for dummies?"

Mom: "It's supposed to be a joke. They write many books to like, Small Business for Dummies and Computers for Dummies."
5 yr. old: "But I'm not supposed to say the word dummy, right?"
Mom: (the dreaded answer with a sigh) "Well, in this instance you can."

I find the "for Dummies" series flat out hilarious - that someone came up with the title and has basically monopolized the How-To section at Borders. Genius. However, explaining it to my 5 year old was another story!

"Travel Games For Dummies offers three exciting games in one. The game is packed with over 600 puzzles for Solitaire, Sudoku and Crosswords enthusiasts.

In Solitaire, players can try their hand at 10 different Solitaire games from the classic Klondike, to more advanced versions like Pyramid and Scorpion.

Sudoku fans will learn to play like pros as they choose from hundreds of puzzles, using the full-featured practice mode with optional hints to solve them in record time.

Fans of Crosswords will be completing puzzles in no time, using hint options like clues and letter choices when they need help."

Now that your kids have a DS, you just might want to buy one for yourself. Then you can play your Travel Games for Dummies games all day, every day! No need to wait around for Junior to finish his never-ending Madden NFL '09 game.

With Sudoku being still being all the rage these days, your "friends" might come crawling out of that hole in the wall to "help" you play. Crosswords are just plain awesome for the brain. And once addicted to online Solitare, there's no turning back...

Giveaway Alert!
I have a brand new Travel Games for Dummies DS game to giveaway to one lucky winner!

What you need to do:
Easy. Simply send an email to emilyallyn and be sure to put Travel Games for Dummies DS in the subject. That's it!

The giveaway will end Monday, December 15th at 11:59 pm. The winner will be notified by email.

Barney's

2008-12-11T08:17:00.000-06:00

My Happy Holidays tip to you:
Hurry, hurry, hurry is all I have to say - before all the good stuff and/or your size is gone!

Barney's New York CO-OP is promoting their Designer Sale with up to 60% off. I've checked it out and the prices are red-hot!

Now I need to get back there before all of you do...

Giveaway: Yoga With Your Baby

2008-12-10T16:35:00.002-06:00

Exercise. Unless you are Michael Phelps, you probably feel you should always be doing more. Some feel they can't get enough. Others feel they need to start doing more. However, when you are a new mom, exercise is just a tad further down on your list than say... oh I don't know maybe... sleep, eat, laundry, and Target-runs!

The Yoga With Your Baby DVD can change that! Watch this video and you'll want to jump right in. It's relaxing, and it's not difficult. These are moves you can perform while cuddling with your baby and enjoying her many smiles. As with all yoga, there are varying degrees of difficulty and you can modify your pose to a level comfortable for you.

I'm a big fan of Yoga. I started it about 3.5 years ago. I will admit I start and stop and start again because I miss it so much and then stop and finally start again. It's a good, strong workout without feeling like you have to run 10 miles in order to get a good workout. There are so many benefits to performing yoga, not just exercise. You involve your mind, body, and spirit. (Which might coincidently be the YMCA's motto???) Meditation for your body and mind is powerful. Moving and holding poses for your body is strength-building, not mention it increases your flexibility. But that's just my take on it!

Here is a formal take on the benefits of yoga and Yoga With Your Baby straight from their website.
Benefits for your baby:
Throughout this program, you will be encouraged to gently move your baby's body rhythmically as you sing with the movements. This rhythmic movement is based on modified yoga poses and has the following benefits for your baby:

Facilitates digestion
Improves sleep
Increases balance
Promotes healthy brain development

Benefits for you:

Introduces playful, easy, interactive yoga poses
Calms and grounds you, so you can relax into a state of attunement
Supports a respectful, loving interaction with your baby
Encourages physical, mental & emotional levels of connection
Facilitates enjoyment of your relationship with your child Helps you develop mindfulness & cultivate compassionate awareness
Increases strength and flexibility

Whether you are new to yoga or a lifetime yogi, you will enjoy Yoga With Your Baby. The DVD is designed for babies who can hold their head up (usually around 3 to 4 months) and for toddlers (up to about 4 years old).

Giveaway Alert!
I have a brand new DVD copy of Yoga With Your Baby to giveaway to one lucky winner!

What you need to do:
Easy. Simply send an email to emilyallyn and be sure to put Yoga With Your Baby DVD in the subject. That's it!

The giveaway will end Monday, December 15th at 11:59 pm. The winner will be notified by email.

Giveaway: Fab Fun With Puzzles

2008-12-09T19:19:00.006-06:00

It's baaaaaaack and absolutely fabulous.

The Fabulous Fun With Puzzles book started in 1946 when Joseph Leeming created Fun With Puzzles followed by More Fun With Puzzles. Fabulous Fun With Puzzles combines the best puzzles from each edition.
"The challenges are varied, in both content and difficulty. You'll find forgotten classics and original creations, humorous teasers and logical testers, easy ticklers and confounding head-scratchers. And just when you think you've caught on to all the devious angles from which Mr. Leeming's puzzles come at you, a new twist will arise. Prepare to be continually bemused, amused, and amazed."

If you are up for the challenge and ready to concentrate, imagine, use logical thinking and clear correlated thinking, then you are ready to purchase Fabulous Fun With Puzzles... or you are ready to take the LSAT.

I can't begin to explain the number of emotions I went through when trying to figure out these puzzles! I'll try - intimidated, smart, feebleminded, proud, confused, rewarded, frustrated, elated, irked, cocky, clever, and dare I say "puzzled". And that was all with the first puzzle! Just kidding. However, when you get one right, you feel pretty dang brainy. You also want to try it on the first person you see, hoping to stump that person and feel like the genius has sprung within you!

To get a flavor of these ultra-fun teasers, here are a few examples (answers found below).

1. Two mothers and two daughters attended a picnic together. The main courses were hot dogs, hamburgers, and grilled chicken - and yet each made a different choice. How could this be?
2. What is the weight of a fish if it weighs ten pounds plus half its weight?
3. Two of the jacks in an ordinary pack of cards are drawn so that one eye is visible. The other two are drawn with two eyes visible on each. Given that, what is the total number of eyes showing on all four jacks?

You will also find a number of conundrums with drawings, cutting out shapes, mixing up letters/words, number puzzles, longer story problems, etc.

What are you waiting for? Strap on your smarts and buy Fabulous Fun With Puzzles for the mind-teaser on your holiday list. That person won't be disappointed in the least!

Answers:

1. It was a threesome - a grandmother, mother, and daughter.

2. The fish weighs 20 pounds.

3. Twelve. Each jack has two heads.

Giveaway Alert!
I have a brand new copy of Fabulous Fun With Puzzles to giveaway to one lucky winner!

What you need to do:
Easy. Simply send an email to emilyallyn and be sure to put Fabulous Fun With Puzzles in the subject. That's it! Never has a contest been so easy.

The giveaway will end Monday, December 15th at 11:59 pm. The winner will be notified by email.

Giveaway: Brain Quest

2008-12-08T20:45:00.004-06:00

Are you smarter than a 3rd, 4th, 5th, or 6th grader?
Here's your chance to find out - Brain Quest.

My son is in 2nd grade and 8 years old. Recently, he has been playing Brain Quest for grades 3 & 4. He really enjoys it, which is great. I love seeing him play video games where he digs deep into his brain and actually uses those cells! Don't get me wrong, I'm not against any of the other rated-E-for-Everyone video games. After all, I did grow up on Atari. Pitfall, Astroids, or Night Driver anyone?

Brain Quest has a wide range of questions. For example, under the 3rd grade category there are these two questions:
1. "Which is not a fruit?" with choices being an apple, grapes, cherries or a hot dog.
2. "Which of the following civilizations is known for building aqueducts?"' with choices being Colonial America, Ancient Rome, and Early Gaul. (Just in case you are wondering, the answer is Ancient Rome.)

Each game contains 6,000 questions. That's unbelievable! I know I couldn't come up with 6,000 questions for a 3rd grader! The categories vary as well, so the questions never get boring. You can choose questions from English, Science, Math, History, Geography, and Grab Bag.

My son really gets into this game and is quite competitive, however I do end up reading many of the questions and/or answers to him. If you would like your son or daughter to play by him- or herself, I would suggest following the grade designation - 3rd and 4th grade - as opposed to the age designation of 8-10 years.

Brain Quest will make the perfect holiday stocking stuffer for that 3rd, 4th, 5th, or 6th grader on your list. Just make sure you throw in a few "practice" rounds for yourself, so you get the hang of it before you request a challenge. You just may get stumped a few times!

Giveaway Alert!
The generous people at EA (Electronic Arts) sent me a few copies of Brain Quest, the DS game, to giveaway. There will be 2 winners. One winner will receive a copy of the Brain Quest for Grades 5 & 6, the other winner will win two copies, one of each Grades 3 & 4 and Grades 5 & 6.

Brain Quest retails for $19.99 each, but you can get yours for free!

What you need to do:
Easy. Simply send an email to emilyallyn and be sure to put Brain Quest DS Game in the subject. That's it!

The giveaway will end Monday, December 15th at 11:59 pm. The winners will be notified by email.

Giveaway: Raggedy Ann & Andy

2008-12-04T08:45:00.003-06:00

Giveaway Alert!

Emily & Allyn. Jack & Jill. Hansel & Gretl. Mickey & Minnie.
All famous :)
But don't forget Raggedy Ann & Andy. Back to Basics Toys sure hasn't. The nostalgic Raggedy Ann & Andy Box Set is available for only $44.99. But, you can win a set for free!

All you have to do is send us an email and be sure to put Raggedy Ann & Andy in the subject line. That's it! You could be our next lucky winner.

The giveaway will end Monday, December 15th at 11:59 pm. The winner will be notified by email.
___________________________________

Back to Basics Toys is another one of my favorite catalogs this time of year. The toys can transport you back in time with smiles remembering your childhood days. They keep the best toys alive and add some modern ones with a twist.

Here are a few of my favorite.

Lincoln Logs. You can't be a kid and not experience the original Lincoln Logs. They are as classic as classic gets. This commemorative tin canister edition with 115 pieces sells for $39.99. There is also a larger set for $99.99.

The Junior Whirly Wheel. Kids (up to 60 lbs. for this version) use their hands to power this ride-on. It looks like so much fun! You can spin 360 degrees on almost any surface. $54.99.

The pendulum clocks are quite nostalgic to say the least. A perfect decoration for any playroom. Comes in Old Smokey Train and Little Princess styles. Each $69.99.

For the Frogger and/or Space Invaders lover. They are back, tabletop-style! Each only $29.99.

For the football fanatic. The Ultimate NFL Tabletop Football Game where you flick the "football" down the field. Brings me back to Junior High... $29.99.

A major indoor tree house. Comes with a crane, crow's nest, swing, rope ladder, water well, and bucket on a pulley to engage your tot for hours on end. $159.99.

The Brio Labyrinth. We have this toy from back in my day. It still drives me crazy! Yet it is quite addictive.

This should be enough to get you started on your journey through the wonderful land of the Back to Basics Toys website. Your turn!

Giveaway: Scholastic DS Game

2008-12-03T14:28:00.000-06:00

Scholastic. Simply an amazing company with wonderful products, always. I can't say enough about them.

My son loves to play I SPY computer games on the kid's pc. We own I Spy: Treasure Hunt and I Spy: Spooky Mansion. They are imaginative and I don't feel guilty when the kids play since they combine fun with critical thinking and vocabulary skills.

I'm not the only one who appreciates these games; check out all the awards they have won!

The generous people working with Scholastic sent us the newest addition to the I Spy group, I Spy: Fun House. I played it with my (almost) 6 year old. We had so much fun together, finding objects, giving clues, winning tickets, and then playing in the Fun House. If you ever went to Carnivals as a kid, you will totally love this! It takes you back. My son also thought this was a hoot. He couldn't wait to get out of bed the next morning to continue his Fun House adventure!

"Solve I Spy riddles to earn tickets to the Fun House, a topsy turvy world where nothing is as it appears! Master puzzles and play exciting games while exploring the Fun House! Practice logic and reasoning skills while solving 30 brain-teasing puzzles, 33 I SPY riddles, 4 fast paced games, Scavenger Hunt, and over 185 additional problems!"

Giveaway Alert!
Scholatic's "Animal Genius [DS] puts players animal smarts to the test. Using the Nintendo DS stylus, players must compete in five different games, which require a combination of quick thinking and sharp reflexes. The five games include Creature Collector, Scratch N See, Matchomatic, Maze Munch and Animal Expert. "

Animal Genius for the DS retails for $29.99, but it could be yours for free!
What you need to do:
Easy. Simply send an email to emilyallyn and be sure to put Animal Genius DS Game in the subject. That's it! Slick as snot, eh?!!?

The giveaway will end Monday, December 15th at 11:59 pm. The winner will be notified by email.

Don't forget to visit Scholastic's website where you will find a ton of information for parents and kids - activities, games, videos, family life, books & authors, and more, more, more! Amazing.

Giveaway: Say Anything

2008-12-02T11:07:00.002-06:00

Giveaway Alert!
The makers of Wits and Wagers (see yesterday's post) have created another game, Say Anything. And I have one to giveaway!

Say Anything
"Say Anything is a light-hearted game about what you and your friends think. It will get people talking, laughing, and having fun in minutes. Enjoy it with 3 - 8 family members (players must be able to write) or as a hilarious party game with adults. So dig deep into your heart or just come up with something witty -- this is your chance to Say Anything!"

1. Ask a question from the card you draw.
2. Everyone else writes an answer & turns it face-up.
3. You secretly choose your favorite answer. Then everyone tries to guess which one you picked.

Sample questions:
1. If I could have a "BIG" anything, what would it be?
2. Who is the most overrated band of all time?
3. Who's the most annoying celebrity in show business?
4. What's the worst thing to say to a cop after getting pulled over?

What you need to do:
Easy. Simply send an email to emilyallyn and be sure to put Say Anything Game in the subject. That's it!

The giveaway will end Monday, December 15th at 11:59 pm. The winner will be notified by email.

Wits & Wagers

2008-12-01T16:02:00.005-06:00

Picture this: Thanksgiving weekend, up North at the cabin, thin blanket of snow on the ground, all cozy next to a fireplace, drinking wine and playing umpteen rounds of Wits & Wagers with the family. Sound like a good time? Without a doubt. (Some of you may need to replace the word family with friends in order to ensure a good time.)

Wits and Wagers by North Star Games is a game for many ages. Our group spanned from age 13 up to 61, and we all had a ball. When the younger kids (ages 5-9) saw how much fun we were having, they wanted in on a piece of the action. So, we gave them clues by supplying them with a range in which to guess and we made up a few questions specific to them.

"Each player writes down a guess to the same question and places it face-up on the betting mat. Think you know it? Bet on your guess! Think you know who the expert is? Bet on them. The player with the most points [chips] after 7 questions wins."

It's a little like bringing Vegas and Trivial Pursuit to your own living room. Only what happens in the living room while playing Wits and Wages doesn't always stay in the living room. For example, I'll be telling you all (a.k.a. the World) a little story about our game.

We had this question, "In 2006, how many knives were discovered during U.S. airport passenger screenings?" Our answers ranged from 50 (yes, 50) to 20,000. We placed our bets, then read the actual answer: 1,607,100. First, all of our mouths dropped and hung open. Then we all stared at our own answers in disbelief... and without skipping a beat, the jabs and jokes starting flying towards the person who guessed 50! (Sorry, Mom.) It's now one of those things she'll never live down.

To give you a better taste for the game, here are a few more examples of questions (answers below):
1. In dollars, what is the average annual salary of a Major League Baseball player?
2. In days, how long was O.J. Simpson's double murder trial?
3. What percent of American families annually spend more than they earn?
4. In days, what was the shortest term of any U.S. president?
5. In what year was Coca-Cola first produced?
6. In what year did Sesame Street first air?
I could keep going because it's quite addicting!

Wits and Wagers would be the perfect holiday gift or hostess gift. But don't take my word for it (or my mother's or my husband's or my brother's or my sister's-in-law, or my nephew's). This game has already won 13 industry awards. You won't go wrong giving this as a gift... unless of course you give this to your friend who is addicted to gambling and wants to play for real money.

Answers to questions above:

1. $3.060,484
2. 252 days
3. 40%
4. 32 days (Harrison died of pneumonia 32 days after his inauguration)
5. 1886
6. 1969

You can find Wits & Wagers at your favorite Target store; I saw it at mine today. It's also online at Target.com and Amazon.com.

A Nod To The Holidays

2008-11-25T16:09:00.002-06:00

Many of the stores we know and frequent seem to carry many of the same toys and gifts. And quite frankly it gets old. There are few stores that can truly call themselves unique and offer uncommon yet wonderful choices. The Land of Nod is one of them.

Here are a few suggestions for that little one who has everything - but you still need to find that perfect gift...

1. Did you ever see the movie The Holiday with Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, Jack Black, and Kate Winslet? If not, go rent it. It's a super cute romantic comedy. There is a scene where Jude Law cuddles up with his girls in a princess "fort" (for lack of a better term) he made for them. It is one of the coolest hideouts for a kid I've seen. If I had a girl, I would want to reconstruct it. But if you don't feel like reconstructing it, you can purchase this pink playhouse or castle playhouse (for a boy). A get-a-way like no other!

2. Do you know a budding Tiger Woods? The Noonan Mini Golf Game would be the perfect gift. Start that little one young and maybe he'll share some of his earnings with you!

3. What kid doesn't like to color? What kid doesn't color on the wall at least once in their lifetime? Now it's ok. Buy the Frames Wallpaper and you can tell little Sammy to go nuts on that wall. I will admit I'm only a fan of this product if you have kids who understand they can't color on the "real" walls. I can just see the 2 year old little brother copying his big sister as she composes her masterpiece. I shudder at the thought! But a very cool idea for the right kids.

4. Blast from the past. Remember the bendable and poseable Gumby and Pokey toys from our childhood? Did you husband think Gumby was cool perhaps? (Or did he just think Eddie Murphy playing Gumby on SNL was a complete riot?!)

5. "Mom, I'm bored." How many times have you heard that line? No more! Purchase the I'm Not Bored Anymore Art Jar and tell those kiddos to snip it!

6. Looking for a memorable newborn gift? Try a growth chart and personalize it. This is one of those things you don't think to buy as a mother, but one of those things you wish you had.

That should be enough to get you started. Now it's your turn. You will definitely find something at The Land of Nod.

Pregnancy & Newborn

2008-11-25T14:23:00.000-06:00

Did you get the memo? Emily Allyn's Little Democrat and Little Republican is one of Pregnancy & Newborn's magazine cravings! (November, 2008 issue.)

To all the little politicos out there... thank you!

We only have a few left. Get yours now while they are on sale, only $11.95. Now that's a steal.

Poingo

2008-11-24T20:07:00.000-06:00

My 5 year old son was chomping at the bit to dive into this Poingo pen and book system. You open the book, touch the book with the pen, and the pen starts reading to you. Of course the whole time I'm trying to figure out how does this pen-thing know where you are in the book? The pages are like normal pages in a children's book. Crazy, I tell you. Some of the more difficult to understand words are highlighted in red. When you touch the word, the pen says the word and gives you a brief definition. And, of course, there are games. What kid's product is complete without some interaction. You touch the game icon with the pen, the pen asks some questions about something on the page, and you touch the object on the page to answer the question. Amazing.
"Children ages 3-7 will love using the pen-shaped Poingo to touch pictures or text and bring their favorite characters to life with words, sounds, and music. When touched with Poingo, almost every image on the book's pages triggers exciting elements of discovery, exploration, and surprise, engaging the child and making the reading experience entertaining and fun."

The Poingo starter kit includes the pen-shaped Poingo and two large hardcover interactive storybooks. The suggested retail price is $34.99 and it can be found at Target, Toys 'R' Us, Wal-Mart, Costco, Sam's Clubs, and BJ's Wholesale Clubs, and online at Discover Poingo.

First, you can't go wrong when you offer something with Cars and Nemo. Brilliant movies. Second, it's quite intuitive for 5 -7 year olds. However, a younger child will need more assistance.
This is definitely a hot seller this holiday season. Target online is out of stock at the moment. And I believe it's going to become an even a bigger seller because High School Musical and Hannah Montana books will be available any day now. Get your Poingo system while you can!

Ideas Aplenty, One Source

2008-11-19T21:02:00.001-06:00

One of my favorite catalogs, Chasing Fireflies, has ideas aplenty for your holiday gifts.

I'll just get started and dive right in.

The personalized Santa hats (shown above) are adorable on anyone, kids and adults alike! $28.
This rich and gorgeous winter white knit dress is simply irresistible, made from luxurious wool-alpaca knit . $158.
Love the classic movie Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer? Then you'll love the adorable Hermey & the Abominable Snowmonster figures. $96.
Is your little girl mostly a girly girl but at times a hang-out-with-the-boys kind of girl? If so, she'll love this sparkly take on the Chuck Taylor. $35.
All kids love the hoppy balls you sit and bounce on. They are a childhood favorite. Chasing Fireflies carries the alien hoppy version. $38.
Or there is the holiday hoppy reindeer version. $49
"A young swashbuckler will be thrilled to pull this from the holiday treasure chest every year" - a personalized pirate ornament. $48
And for the princess/dancer in your family, every year she can enjoy the personalized tiny dancer ornament. $48.
For the baby on your list, these red shearling booties, are a perfect holiday splash of color to any tiny outfit. $39.
Would your tiny tot like to eat off special holiday dinnerware just like mom and dad? There is the merry mealtime set. $29.

Your turn. Dive in. You can't go wrong at Chasing Fireflies.

Graeter's Is Grrrrreat!

2008-11-17T20:44:00.001-06:00

Many nights when I was a little girl, my dad and I would "race" through our bowls of ice cream. Surprisingly we both have some gene that predisposes us from getting brain freeze; I've never experienced it.

So, when the generous people at Graeter's Ice Cream sent me 6 pints of ice cream to review, I thought I had died and (hopefully) gone to heaven. Who in their right mind would turn away that offer?!

As the luck was all mine, I was able to test the following mouth watering flavors:

Toffee Chocolate Chip - The chunks of toffee are incredible, probably because they use genuine Heath® toffee; very nice combination.
Mint Chocolate Chip - A staple flavor, and their chunky version is perfect.
Mocha Chocolate Chip - Mocha can be dry and overwhelming, but not this Mocha. It is pleasing on the palette with a creamy finish.
Double Chocolate Chip - Chocolate lovers look out, you have found your own heaven. Thank the Lord.

Vanilla Chocolate Chip - Another staple flavor done deliciously right by using natural vanilla.
Black Raspberry Chip - My absolute favorite. Out of this world. The pairing of raspberry and chocolate chunks is one of the best combinations life has to offer! I licked the pint clean. I'm kidding, but don't think for a minute I didn't think about it.

Does the picture below make you want to drool? Look at those chunks!

Graeter's makes a whole slew of other flavors - a few more with chocolate chips and many without like, caramel, cookies 'n cream, black cherry, butter pecan, strawberry, coffee, and of course chocolate and vanilla. Their two new flavors are pumpkin pie and cinnamon, just in time for Fall. If you prefer sorbet, they've got you covered as well. You can enjoy the raspberry or lemon sorbet flavors.

Graeter's is first class all the way. The seal on the lid is tight in order to keep your ice cream fresh, and they use only the best ingredients. For example, their cream is fresh and from farms that pledge not to use artificial growth hormones (rBST). There are no hydrogenated oils, therefore no trans fats. They use 100% cane sugar with no high fructose corn syrup. The list goes on. With all these benefits, eating ice cream has never been so good for you!

Go ahead and send some pints to your favorite ice cream-aholic (even if it is yourself)!

It's a tough job having to review ice cream, but somebody has to do it. Graeter's, you have won this mother over. You truly are irresistible.

Cleatskins

2008-11-13T13:37:00.009-06:00

For anyone with kids who play sports (and I believe that covers approximately 85% of people reading this blog), you will absolutely love this invention, Cleatskins.

Place these rubber shells over your cleats and you will be ready to hit the streets. You can bop from the field to the car to the house without depositing dirt with every step. Moms, you won't need to worry when junior runs across your new hardwood floor with his Cleatskins covering his cleats. No scratches will be left on that shiny surface! Or when little Lucy comes off the dirty soccer field and hops in the car. Moms, your car will stay nice and clean! Can you even imagine? It's like the days of yore - before your own kids were "invented".

Not only do these nifty covers keep surfaces clean, they protect those expensive cleats as well.
"Cleatskins are a revolutionary footwear accessory for athletes on-the-go." (And let's face it, if you are an athlete, you are always on-the-go.)

"Cleatskins is the perfect fit for cleats worn for a variety of outdoor sports, including baseball, football, soccer, and golf. Cleatskins are versatile enough to match any shoe, team uniform, or outfit in youth, kid, and adult sizes, and the unique machine washable material makes them easy-to-care for and always looking new." Whoa, wait just a minute there, Mr. Rick Kay, inventor-of-the-Cleatskins-man, you mean you can throw these in the washing machine? SOLD!

Actually, my son already has a pair of these in red. I love that they come in an array of colors, even some girly colors like the pink camo (shown above). My son thinks he is pretty dang cool when he dons his fiery red Cleatskins. And I'm proud to say, I found yet another use for them. My son also plays basketball. Believe it or not, we've actually had a tad bit of snow the last few days up here in Minnesota. So when my son had practice, instead of getting his shoes all wet walking through the parking lot, we slipped on the Cleatskins before we left the house. When we arrived at the gym, we slipped them off and his shoes weren't slippery or squeeky! It reminded me of when I was little and my father used to slip on his rubber overshoes - over his shoes so his good shoes would be protected from the rain or snow. Remember those? (These are even better.)

Currently, Cleatskins are sold at select Dick's Sporting Goods, Shoebuy.com, and SoccerGarage.com. However, their own online store is coming soon to an internet near you.
(Side note: if you buy a pair and they seem too difficult to get on, go to their FAQ section and read number IV.)

Do you want a pair? Enter their contest here and you could win a free pair!

This is an amazing product. Boy tested, mom approved!

Start the Holidays With A Bang!

2008-11-11T07:34:00.000-06:00

Here's the kick-off to our 2008 Holiday Gift Reviews for our Emily Allyn readers.

I would be remiss (and you could possibly even use the word stupid) if I did not start off my own holiday review guide with my own amazing holiday products. Call it shameless self-promotion, if you will. What ever you call it, just know these shirts fly off the shelves each year. So, if you are at all interested in these, grab yours now!

The Emily Allyn Snowflake clothing is priceless. It's adorable design also carries the words "One-of-a-kind" beneath it... because each child truly is their own unique, one-of-a-kind little individual. As always, our clothes are 100% cotton, boutique-quality. The Snowflake adorns our our infant bodysuits (also referred to as onesies, though if you didn't know Gerber has that term trademarked!) as well as our infant and toddler tees.

"Think of Children as Snowflakes.
A small snowflake falls to the ground in a huge field. Another snowflake falls beside it. One more comes, and many follow. Each is different, has it's own form and size, but, o, the beauty of each one! There is much mystery in each. We must cherish the sparkle of all of them. They are all unique, special, magnificent."
-- Cynthia R. Sanchez

Holiday Gift Reviews 2008

2008-11-10T16:25:00.003-06:00

Our Holiday Gift Reviews will be starting this week! Be on the lookout for some amazing gifts to give this season.

Giveaway Alert!
We will also have a boat load of awesome (yes, I'm thirty-something and I just used the word awesome) giveaways!

We have DS games, DVDs, books, games, and more to give away. Stay tuned throughout November and into December for our fabulous finds and amazing giveaways.

Because it is the holiday season and I want to thank my readers, entering the giveaways will be a piece of cake. All you will have to do is email me, that's it! Look for our Giveaway Alert! and what to type in the subject line. You could very well be the next winner!

Drum roll please...

Simplify the Holidays

2008-11-10T16:05:00.003-06:00

The holidays are right around the corner. If you are organized, you've already started the planning. Don't let the holidays get to you this year. For once, enjoy them. Below are some articles found on the net to help you do just this. Enjoy!

Here are a seven tips from See Jane Work that anyone can use on how to handle the holidays. Click the link to read the helpful details.
# 1 Make rules and follow them
# 2 Simplify gift giving
# 3 Party only some of the time
# 4 Create traditions all your own
# 5 Master of none
# 6 Prepare for the unexpected
# 7 Look fabulous or the pictures will come back to haunt you

About.com has a whole section titled Holiday Survival Guide: Manage Stress and Simplify Your Holiday Season.

If you are a person who likes to purchase a book on every topic, so you have something to reference or use, you will find Simplify Your Holidays: A Christmas Planner to Use Year after Year on Amazon.com.

For the list lover in you, you will be delighted to have found these two online articles: How to Simplify the Holidays With a Holiday Checklist and Christmas Planner

And for general organization, check out Organized Christmas (though it doesn't have to be all about Christmas, you can use these tips for other holidays).

And I think it's important to remember these handy tips from How to Simplify the Holidays With a Holiday Checklist.
Keep each section of your checklist as short and as simple as possible.

Remember, simple is best. Do not take on more than what you can handle.

Set specific deadlines for each category. Give yourself a few more days.

Work on everything a little at a time, every day until you are complete.

Do not compare your holiday plans to those from holidays past, or the plans of your neighbors, friends, relatives etc. The focus is on your holiday and what will make you and those closest to you happy this season, all within reason of course.

Try not to add more tasks to your checklist unless it is something that you have absolutely forgotten to include.

Groovin' On Giraffes

2008-11-05T15:35:00.004-06:00

I've posted a few things this year with giraffe print. It never goes out of style! I bought these Bandolino Women's Jenkins Flat shoes a couple of months ago. They are perfect for sprucing up a pair of jeans. Not to mention the giraffe print purse you bought - you will look coordinated and put together without overdoing it. The shoes feature a haircalf upper with a patent leather buckle and 3/4" heel.

If you love the style of the shoe, but aren't so hip on the giraffe print, it does come in a variety of solid colors. I paid full price, but it looks like they are on sale now (of course). If you don't see your size, google it!

Next week: I'll be starting our Holiday Gift Review and Guide. Be on the lookout for some wonderful finds and amazing giveaways!

I Want To Thank McCain

2008-11-04T23:36:00.001-06:00

McCain just conceeded to Obama. I watched McCain's speech on TV. Although this blog is about Amazing Finds for Moms and Tots, I want to post this simply because this election has been amazing. Either way we made history - either with a black president or the first female vice president.

McCain's concession speech was gracious and honest. It could have been his best speech throughout the campaign. I thought he was very powerful when he stated,
"Senator Obama and I have had and argued our differences, and he has prevailed. No doubt many of those differences remain. These are difficult times for our country. And I pledge to him tonight to do all in my power to help him lead us through the many challenges we face.
I urge all Americans who supported me to join me in not just congratulating him, but offering our next president our good will and earnest effort to find ways to come together to find the necessary compromises to bridge our differences and help restore our prosperity, defend our security in a dangerous world, and leave our children and grandchildren a stronger, better country than we inherited.
Whatever our differences, we are fellow Americans. And please believe me when I say no association has ever meant more to me than that."

My only hope is people heard that part of his speech and we truly can come together. Pipe dream? Maybe. But otherwise I'm afraid all those younger citizens and new citizens who registered and voted in record numbers may go on believing people serving in politics are not listening to their voices and once again nothing gets done.

Obama has a slate full of problems to solve in our country. It will be interesting to see which ones he/we can and will tackle first and foremost. Can we turn things around in four short years? As Obama would say, "Yes, we can!"

Here's To You

2008-10-30T15:30:00.003-05:00

The holidays are around the corner and so are plenty of holiday parties and entertaining. That means it's time to start thinking about menus. Courtesy of Fine Living: Food and Drink, here are quite a few holiday spirits from which you can choose to use during your festivities!

10 Toasty, Cold-Weather Cocktails
Hot "Rasapple-Rum" Cider
My Mama's Marvelous Mulled Wine
Chai Yai Yai
Cocoa Raspberry Heaven
and six more

10 Holiday Cocktails
Creme Brulee Martini
Gingerbread Martini
White Christmas
Pumpkin Martini
and six more

9 Hot Winter Cocktails
Nutty Irishman
Cranberry Hot Toddies
Vanilla Hot Chocolate Seduction
and six more

I'm all about the drinks with Bailey's Irish Creme. Hmmm... I can taste it now!

If for some reason you can't find a toddy in those 29 suggestions, try Bar.com. You are sure to find a recipe at a site with that name!

411 Wristband Winner

2008-10-30T07:15:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Lisa D. of Idaho for winning one free set of the Mabel's Label's 411 Wristbands! We hope she loves them. Thank you again to Mabel's Labels for sponsoring the giveaway.

Murder In Malibu

2008-10-29T09:40:00.000-05:00

I've always wanted to do one of those Murder Mystery parties, but the ones you see at game stores seem a bit... well, tacky. Recently, I came across M3, Murder Mystery Maniacs. There are a ton of murder mysteries to choose from. First, you can pick from Corporate Murder Mystery Events to Murder Mystery Parties to Teen Murder Mystery Parties. From there the options are plenty. Under the Murder Mystery Parties you will find 1920's Mobster Mystery, The Halloween Horror, The Bad Santa, a Murder in Malibu, Murder at Midnight (for New Years), Man Overboard, The American Icon (based off American Idol), and The Office (based off the TV show characters) just to name a few. Who would play Dwight from The Office at your party?

The Murder In Malibu sounds like loads of fun.
"You are going to Jay Leno’s posh mansion in Hollywood for his annual Guest Appreciation Party. Everyone in attendance has either been a guest on show... A scream rang out. Jay Leno was found collapsed in the wine cellar and pronounced dead from a gun shot wound. One of you is the killer and the rest of you need to find out who it is. When you have found someone with a motive, a gun, and who was near the wine cellar this evening, then you may have discovered the true killer. "
You may invite 10-50 people to this party. Here are a few examples of the Actors that might be invited.

RICHARD SIMMONS - the famous exercise enthusiast. Come dressed in x-small red andwhite striped shorts, with a red tank top. Don’t forget your sweat band and pearly white Reeboks. (OMG, I already know who I would send this invite to and have them come as Richard Simmons! What a riot.)

JACK NICHOLSON – the famous actor. You are on fire after the hit, The Shining. Come
dressed in khaki pants & Tommy Bahama Shirt. Don’t forget your shades and Cheshire grin.

MICK JAGGER – the famous Rolling Stones singer. You should come and dress like the
#1 rocker you are. Tattoos, sleeveless t-shirts, and bandanas make nice accessories!

MADONNA – the famous pop-star. Come dressed in either clothing reminiscent of the
eighties or go for Madonna’s current look, which tends to be a track suit of some kind. Aviator
sunglasses would be a nice touch.

MARTHA STEWART – the famous talk-show host. Come dressed in a sweater poncho
and your nicest pair of khakis. A button stating INMATE OF THE YEAR would be a nice addition.

The M3 website contains a ton of information about invitations, how to run the party, what to read to guests, props, what a party might look like. Once you click on a party, click View Online Sample on the left. A document will pop up with all the informaiton you'll need to know for that party.

For your next party, try the Murder Mystery Maniacs and see how zany and fun it really is!

411 Wristband Giveaway

2008-10-28T13:15:00.007-05:00

Reminder: today is the last day to enter for the Mabel's Label's Giveaway!

Carve It Up

2008-10-27T22:09:00.000-05:00

The last two years, I've posted this around Halloween. Kids seem to really enjoy it.

Let your kids carve this virtual pumpkin by vidugiris.com and your kitchen stays nice and clean. The kiddos can enjoy a few minutes of fun by creating a bunch of funny and scary faces on the pumpkin. They could even use this as a templet. Once they create a face they love, make note of it and carve it on to your real pumpkin.

Click the pumpkin to get started with your drawing tool. Once you see your drawing tool, left click and drag to make different shapes. When the Picasso in you is finished, click Done to see your pumpkin all lit up!

Happy Halloween!

MIL Day + Giveaway

2008-10-26T23:34:00.003-05:00

Today is Mothers-in-law Day.
In all honesty I had absolutely no idea this day even existed (sorry Kate), until I came across the book The Daughter-in-law Rules by Sally Shields. Sally wrote this book after her own life experiences of constantly being at odds with her mother-in-law. She decided to take matters into her own hands and "give in" once she "realized the bond between a mother and her son is impenetrable and there was no way in Kalamazoo [she] was going to get him to take sides."

After reading this book, my first reaction was, "Wow, I'm pretty dang lucky. I have a good relationship with my mother-in-law. Of course there are a few things in the book to which I can relate, but man I can't imagine going through life being at odds like this with my mother-in-law." However, I quickly remembered quite a few of my friends and their stories regarding their mothers-in-law. So, I know this book definitely resonates with many, many daughters-in-law out there. And if this is you, keep reading you will enjoy this! Here are a few snippets from the book, The Daughter-in-law Rules.

"By No Means Criticize Your Husband To Your MIL.
Even if you are especially mad at your mate, do not tell your MIL about it. She may not (D’UH!) take your side and you will end up feeling far worse than before. Save your marital gripes for your girlfriends, your own mother, or better yet, your trusty Daughter-in-Law Solutions Worksheet. (Just apply it to your husband!)"

"Tell Your MIL What a Great Job She Did As a Mother.
And truly mean it! After all, you chose to marry her son! This will most likely bring her to tears."

"Send Thank You Notes To Your MIL.
No matter what the gift, make sure you send your MIL a handwritten note to express your appreciation. But just in case she says, 'Whatever you do, DON’T send me Thank You cards! We're family!' a simple phone call will suffice. And be happy that she finally considers you part of the family unit!"

Giveaway Alert!
Would you like a copy of The Daughter-in-law Rules by Sally Shields? All you have to do is email me by Friday, October 31st: reachus@emilyallyn.com. In the subject type DIL Rules. We'll pick 5 winners to receive a free e-book.

Last thought: if today is Mothers-in-law Day, it begs the question, is there a daughters-in-law Day? I Googled it and found nothing. Silly me, of course not. Is there a Kid's Day? Every day is Kid's Day. So maybe every day is Daughters-in-law day. What do you think, Kate?!!? (Kate would be my mother-in-law.)

A Nod To The Oval Crib

2008-10-23T08:55:00.004-05:00

Sometimes you just need to throw the word practical right out the door. Round/oval cribs are impractical because you have to use the mattress and sheets shown with the crib. What if you use the crib for your second child and you don't like those sheets anymore? Not to mention the cribs are always well over $1000. But they are adorable and a fresh perspective on the crib, not to mention everyone will always comment on how fun and different it is. Plus, because they are a bit spendy, you can bet your bottom it is made well and will last.

The crib pictured above is from Land of Nod and called the Stokke Sleeep Sleepi System 1. You don't necessarily have to throw the word practical out the door when using this system. As my youngest would say, "It's magic." It conforms from a bassinet, to a crib, to a toddler bed. It sells for $1249, but this crib includes 2 mattress sizes - one for use as a crib/toddler bed and one for use as a bassinet. Now that's a deal! To use as a toddler bed, you simply place the mattress position on the lowest level and remove one of the side panels (shown below). And to use as a bassinet, you move the matress position to the highest level and remove both side panels (becomes a circle bassinet, not shown).

I also need to mention it has wheels. If you've never purchased a crib before, make sure you buy one with wheels. Trust me the first time you try to change those sheets, you will be thankful you have those wheels to easily move that crib away from the wall. If you have someone who changes the sheets for you, think about making their life easier and get the wheels!

• Beechwood construction
• Eco-friendly
• Four adjustable mattress heights
• Lockable wheels
• Assembly required
• Stained Espresso or painted White

Land of Nod. Love that store.

Going Once, Going Twice...

2008-10-21T20:11:00.005-05:00

50% off our little democrat and little republican onesies and tees!

This is your last chance to grab one. Once they are gone, they are gone. Get yours today; our stock is getting slimmer and slimmer.

If you are still undecided, heck get both. Then don the winner after the election and show your pride!

You read it right, 50% off!

411 + Giveaway

2008-10-21T05:43:00.001-05:00

These wristbands by Mabel's Labels could be a life saver, literally. Imagine yourself and your child(ren) at the park, the mall, the amusement park, on a field trip, or at Disney World. Now imagine yourself digging in your purse for your wallet. Where is it? You can't find it. And you dig some more. You know it's in there. There's your sunglasses. There's your lipstick. There are your keys. There are some wipes. "Uggg, where is it?" You mumble to yourself. "Oh, there it is." You look up from your purse and say, "found it, Sarah, let's go honey. Sarah?" You look around and you can not locate Sarah. A few minutes pass while you are frantically looking, looking, looking. Just then your cell phone rings. "Mrs. Anderson? I have your daughter, she is safe. We are outside of the Starbucks. Great idea, by the way, to have that wristband on her." You can image how you feel now.

Yes, it is a scenario I hope you never have to live through. And I know you'd rather not think about it. So, instead of thinking about it become proactive and check out the 411 wristbands from Mabel's Labels. The concept is smart and useful; they are resistant to water, sunscreen, chlorine and perspiration You can label your wristbands with "If lost, please call:" and list your phone numbers. And you can always add any pertinent allergies or special needs your child might have.

Some people might argue they don't like putting their child's name on anything for fear of the worst outcome from the scenario described above. It's a personal preference. You decide what to put on your labels. My two favorite are the Treasure Hunt and The Summer Day designs.

They have a ton of other labels on their site that are very useful. Another great asset to this mom-run business is 10% of all wristbands sales goes to the organization Autism Speaks.

Giveaway Alert!

The kind people at Mabel's Labels are giving away one set of 30 wristbands to one lucky Emily Allyn reader. You get to pick your design and you get to decide what you want on the label. Woo hoo! It's worth $21.00, but it's yours for free!

What you need to do:

Easy. Go to our Tell A Friend page and tell at least one friend about our Emily Allyn shopping site. That's it! The only thing I ask, please tell a "real" friend (do not use another email address owned by you). And of course you can tell as many friends as you like! As always, I will not contact that friend unless they sign up for our newsletter.

The giveaway will end Tuesday, October 28th at 11:59 pm. The winner will be notified by email. (I will have your email from the telling a friend form.)

Good luck!

One Person's Trash...

2008-10-09T14:25:00.008-05:00

Is another person's piece of art.

We all have trash. It's smelly, it's icky, and it's unsightly... until now. Make your trash into a piece of art, whether it's in your yard, driveway, or your store's garbage. The pink with white polka dot bags are a fun way to say, "Yes, like you I have trash, but at least I know how to make it pretty." These vibrant, large, 55 gallon, bags are made with biodegradable PVC. That is huge. But that's not all. They even come scented. Cover up that damn Diaper Genie smell or the fish you had for dinner last night.

Fall is here. After raking up all those leaves and jumping in them with your kids, pile the leaves into one of these fashionable bags. While they sit outside and wait for the trash collector, your lawn or driveway will look better than your neighbor's. And your trash collector might even thank you for giving his truck a makeover.

Umi Shoes Giveaway Winner!

2008-10-08T09:20:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Marlena of Davenport, IA! She is the winner of our Emily Allyn and Umi Shoes Giveaway. Marlena will be receiving one pair of the cute black leather Ithica Shoe in a size 10 (USA)!

Thanks to everyone who participated.

Watch next week for our next giveaway - of course you'll love it!

American Girl

2008-10-07T21:31:00.004-05:00

I have two boys, so please be grateful that I am posting this :)

If you live in Minnesota or plan on visiting the Twin Cities any time soon and you have little girls, you will be thrilled to know American Girl is coming to the Mall of America. What took them so long? No idea.

The Grand Opening is November 15-16, 2008. Just in time for Christmas. How timely.

While you are shopping you may also enjoy a bistro offering brunch, lunch, and dinner. Girls may celebrate birthday parties or special occasions. If your American Girl doll needs a hair stylist, one will be present in the hair salon. Other special events will be taking place, you may learn about more at the American Girl website.

Now, on to Tom Petty's version of American Girl.
Sing it with me:
"Well she was an american girl
Raised on promises
She couldnt help thinkin that there
Was a little more to life..."

Umi Shoes + Giveaway

2008-10-06T09:13:00.002-05:00

You have until tomorrow - Tuesday, October 5th - to enter our Umi Shoes Giveaway.
Hurry, don't miss out!

Debate

2008-10-03T09:29:00.014-05:00

My thoughts on the debate. You may not have asked, but you will get them! If you would rather not read this or do not agree with me, that is fine. I believe everyone is entitled to their own opinion. Feel free to scroll down to my other fabulous posts.

Let's face it, the bar was set pretty low for Governor Sarah Palin. I agree with the political analysts, this was not a train wreck for her. However, after the Couric interview she really didn't have anywhere to go but up. In my opinion she started out pretty strong, but in the last half hour she became tiresome, a bit of a broken record, and some of the cutesy winks and comments became more apparent.

If you haven't watched the Couric interview, watch it. If for no other reason, so you know to what others are referring. There are 3 short clips to watch. (To make the screen bigger, click the icon with the squares inside the circle found in the bottom right hand of the video area.)

First Thought
It was interesting to me when Palin made the comment during the debate about not doing more interviews with "mainstreem media" - referring to the Couric interview. But I ask you, as vice president isn't it important to be able to speak intelligently to the American people and to the leaders of other countries? Sarah Palin will not be afforded the opportunity to practice her speeches and debate tactics for one to two days every time she speaks to the American people and the leaders of other countries. She will be asked questions like she was in the Couric interview. That is the reality.

Does Senator Biden give the best interviews? No. He can get long-winded and repeat himself over and over again. But just as the political commentators were surprised that Palin was not a train wreck, they were surprised that Biden kept his answers brief.

Second Thought
Palin also said to Biden, "I may not answer the questions that either the moderator or you want to hear, but I'm going to talk straight to the American people and let them know my track record." Aren't you supposed to answer the questions posed to you in a debate? Isn't that the point of a debate, to debate the issues raised? Some may say it is an "art" to skirt the issues and talk about what you want to talk about in a debate. But that's not what America wants to hear. They want the answers to the questions asked, period.

Joe Biden answered almost every question asked of him before coming back to the issue of his choice.

Third Thought
Getting to the end of the debate, Palin expressed her views on the job of the vice president, believing, like Cheney, the vice president can exert more power when needed, "Yeah, so I do agree with him [Cheney] that we have a lot of flexibility in there, and we'll do what we have to do to administer very appropriately the plans that are needed for this nation." It is scary she would say that not to mention a bit naive.

Biden's response where he finally shows some tough emotion, "Vice President Cheney has been the most dangerous vice president we've had probably in American history... The only authority the vice president has from the legislative standpoint is the vote, only when there is a tie vote. He has no authority relative to the Congress. The idea he's part of the Legislative Branch is a bizarre notion invented by Cheney to aggrandize the power of a unitary executive and look where it has gotten us. It has been very dangerous."

Fourth Thought
I may sound like I am being harsh with Governor Palin. Truth is, as a woman, I honestly did not want her to fall flat on her face and relive her Couric interview. As Geraldine Ferraro said after the debate, "I wanted my granddaughters to be able to look at this debate... and see that a woman could go toe to toe with someone who has had tremendous experience in the Senate and someone who is an incredible candidate for vice president of the United States. That to me is very very important." I concur.

Fifth Thought
Another woman, an undecided voter, who was interviewed after the debate said of Palin, "I like her. She just seems like someone I could sit down at a table with and have a fun conversation." I've heard this sentiment a few times in the last few weeks, so I want to address it. I agree, Governor Palin seems like a very nice person. She can be downright adorable. She can throw some solid zings at the Democrats. She can be feisty. She is smart. She is good in front of a camera (hey, she used to be a sports anchor - oh man, we all had bad hair in the 80's, didn't we? I digress.). But in all honesty, that does not qualify her to be Vice President of the United States of America. And it certainly does not qualify her to be President of the United States of America, which is a viable outcome.

Joe Biden on the other hand sought the presidential nomination twice. Biden has been a Senator since 1972 - 36 years. He has served for many years on the Foreign Relations Committee as well as the Judiciary Committee. For a detailed non-biased read on Senator Joe Biden, see this Wikipedia page.

And for a detailed non-biased read on Governor Sarah Palin, see this Wikipedia page.

Bottomline - besides presiding over the senate when there is a tie vote and offering advice to the President, the main job of the vice president is to be ready to take over should anything happen to the the President. Is Sarah Palin ready to be president of the United States? No. Is Joe Biden ready to be President of the United States? Yes. And I think most would agree.

Come Sunday, this debate will long over in most of our minds. We will then move on to talking about the next Presidential debate that is on Tuesday.

I'm just sayin'... in my opinion.

Oprah Bound?

2008-10-01T17:21:00.002-05:00

Could our Emily Allyn products be on their way to the Oprah show? Cross your fingers for us!

For Immediate Release
Oviedo, FL (August 27, 2008)
Contact: Kimberly Morales & Becky Ocasio / 407-687-1543 / info@stylecafemoms.com

Style Cafe Moms, an online “resource cafe for the trendy mom”, strives to be the top online support system for business owners and those who have developed their own product and need affordable advertising and exposure. In addition to advertising, Style Café Moms offers boutique and product reviews as well as a shopping guide, recipes, celebrity dish and of course, the Style Café Moms Celebrity Basket.

Style Cafe Moms, offering an array of services for a businesses advertising and promotional needs, however they still looked for more unique opportunities to promote the businesses that they represent, and with that the Style Café Moms Celebrity Basket was born – a venue allowing several businesses to receive extraordinary distribution and publicity. Style Cafe Mom's celebrity baskets are the ideal setting to launch a new product or create awareness of an existing product, by delving into the celebrity realm and offering businesses the opportunity to introduce their product(s) to some of the biggest celebrities.

The recipient for Style Café Moms most recent basket was sent to the Oprah Winfrey Show. Her talk show, better known as The Oprah Winfrey Show has earned her multiple Emmy Awards and is the highest-rated talk show in the history of television. This basket included “Mommy & Baby Must Haves” to be reviewed by Oprah and the producers of the show for a possible segment.

Overwhelmed

2008-09-29T22:40:00.001-05:00

I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed these days. I think this happens to me at the beginning of every school year. There are a ton of papers coming home each night, things I need to sign, homework to do, form notes from teachers to parents, and not to mention sports, work, being a wife, keeping the house clean, faith formation, doing all the errands for the household, getting some projects done around the house, and did I mention work? Am I different than anyone else? Of course not. We all feel overwhelmed at one time or another (and another and another)!

I was whipping through the September issue of O Magazine. The very last page is Oprah's, What I Know For Sure article she writes every month. This month hit me to the core. She writes, "I AM OVERWHELMED!" Only, Oprah seems to have "twenty-uped-me" on how busy she currently is! Damn that Oprah, always one-upping me. What she wrote stuck with me.

She continued, "So I stopped. Everything. For one day I just stopped. Didn't interview anybody. Or take any phone calls. Or return any e-mails. I stopped doing in order to return to the being of myself. I pulled out my gratitude journal. ...I went to my favorite place on earth, the place where 12 oaks form a canopy on the side of my front yard. ...I let myself absorb the sacredness and dignity of the oaks. I let those trees remind me how to be: still. I took a few deep breaths. I said 'Thank you' out loud. ...And I wrote in my journal. ...Yes, there are many things that need to get done, but in this moment I have to do nothing."

Now, I can't stop being a mom for a day in order to do nothing. But I can take it easy, and stop doing many, many other things. And if I'm smart, I'll try harder to get the kids to bed a little earlier and consciously try to get some time to myself.

Umi Shoes + Giveaway!

2008-09-26T15:31:00.002-05:00

Remember when Elefanten shoes were the "it" thing? They were one of the first companies to hit the U.S. market with quality and fashionable shoes for babies and toddlers. Everything in life seems to come full circle, and the people behind Elefanten have done it again. In 2004, they launched Umi Shoes - the new "it" shoe for the 21st century.

My 5-1/2 year old wears the Jet Shoes (pictured above). Now, my son gets excited about video games, playing with his friends, Bakugan, and Pokemon cards, but not shoes... until these came in the mail. He took one look at them and couldn't get them on his feet fast enough. Then he ran all over the house and made some comment about looking like his super-cool-dude-self in the shoes. (He just may have inherited my shoe fettish, poor kid.) I'm just happy they fit well and have lasted through dragging his toes on the ground at a break when using his scooter. Do you see that reinforced toe in the picture? Love it!

The shoes are handcrafted using drum-dyed, breathable leathers which make the shoes vibrantly colored and extremely durable and comfortable. The heels and collars are padded for a soft and comfortable fit. My son agrees! And the easy closures make it easy for moms to put them on the little tots or for the bigger tots to do their put on their own shoes.

But enough about how well they are put together, check out all the beautiful styles for girls and boys. Even the soles are adorable. The soles of the Jet Shoes we have remind me of planets and our solar system. Another pair (shown below) have pink and black soles and remind me of a sun and some flowers.

For those who are turning to the green side of life, they are also made from environmentally friendly materials and sold in packaging made from recycled goods.

Side note: you may have noticed some styles are out of stock. Some styles are limited and new styles will be arriving the end of October!

Giveaway

The best part!
The extremely nice people at Umi Shoes would like to give one lucky winner a free pair of the ultra cute black leather Ithica Shoe. I have a size 10 USA (27 EUR and 9 UK) sitting here waiting to be worn by some fortunate little girl. Keep in mind if the size 10 is too big, your little girl will grow into it. Or if you don't have a little girl, this would make an unbelievable gift to a friend who does. (And then just drop a few hints about how it would be nice if she returned the favor by buying you a little something-something... or isn't that how gifting works?)

What you need to do to become the winner:

Click the link below and answer a whopping 2 questions. One of two questions asks for your email. The only purpose for the email is to notify you if you are the winner.

Click here for your chance to win!

The giveaway will end Tuesday, October 7th.
That's only 9 days away, so be sure to enter now!

GOOP

2008-09-25T20:43:00.001-05:00

Gwenyth Paltrow has a new website, GOOP: nourish the inner aspect.
Sometimes I think the woman holds secret wonder powers. She does everything. So, I'm hoping she's going to let us in on what she does to obtain and keep these secret Woderwoman powers!
I like the website, but I do think it needs more substance. Maybe that is coming.

I was hoping to find some treasures and handy tips under each image. I assumed the images were for sections on the website. As it sems now, this page is simply a gateway to sign up for her newsletter. Which is fine, I just wish the website was a little more clear about it.

I just received the first newsletter today. Here is how her first newsletter starts.
"This website has been a long time in the making. I have thought about it for years and have been recording information and making notes for this very moment, when I can begin to share it all with you. This week we begin with MAKE. Cooking and food have become my main ancillary passion in life. This may strike some of you as odd, as my friend Mark Bittman of the New York Times once told me, “you have a terrible food reputation, everyone thinks you eat some dry seaweed and a little brown rice.” How did this come to be? I suppose it was my rather strict four-year foray into macrobiotics. I am no longer so restrictive with my diet, far from it. But some of the tenets of macrobiotics have stayed with me and they always will. I try to eat locally, seasonally and always organically. I don’t eat processed foods or red meat and I try to stay away from sugar and dairy but I have a major cheese weakness and, well, you only live once. "

I encourage you to sign up and try it. It might be fun to have a private eye into what goes on in Gwenyth's world!

iPhone Update

2008-09-24T13:28:00.007-05:00

Two weeks ago I wrote a post where I was drooling over the new iPhone 3G.
They hooked me, and I bought it, and I love it... absolutely love it. I can't believe how cool it is. I can't believe all the things you can do with it. Having the iPhone and the iPod together in one device kicks right there, but to have all these other features (already noted in other post) is... is... is... just downright amazing (for lack of a better vocabulary)!

If you are on the fence about buying one. Just do it. You will thank yourself.

Here are some free applications from the iTunes store that you can download.

One of the best free iTunes Apps I've found is Shazam.
"When you hear a song and wonder what it is, Shazam is tere with the answer. Hold your iPhone to the music and within seconds we'll tell you the artist and track name."
I ask you, how in the world does it do that? You can identify music from a TV, the radio, a movie, or if you're hanging out in a store and one comes on. You can then save it and buy it on iTunes if you want it. I could see one hell of a game coming out of this little application.

Another cool app is Trailguru.
"Use your iPhone to do more than just listen to music while you run, bike, or hike. With Trailguru capture the activity using the integrated GPS. Trailguru provides you with a display of the distance you travelled, duration, odometer, pace, average speed, max. speed, elevation, and latitude."

Do you like Guitar Hero? Here is a similar version made for the iPhone, Tap Tap Revenge. It's not easy, but then again I'm a novice at Guitar Hero. If you need something more challenging, I wouldn't doubt there are 12 other applications for a little money that you could buy.

Can't decide where to eat? Let Urbanspoon decide for you. Uses GPS to find a restaurant near you. You can filter the choices by neighborhood, cuisine, or price. Spin the wheel and eat up. Don't like the choice? Spin the wheel again.

Stanza. "Read electronic books on your iPhone. With a reading interface that is unprecedented in its clarity and ease of use, Stanza is bringing the ebook revolution to your pocket." Yes, you say it takes away from reading the real thing, having that book in your hand, turning the pages. But when you are on the go or on the road, you can download a book. Don't like it? Start another book. There are a ton of books to download for free. Many of them are books from your High School days, like Mobey Dick, Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Pride and Prejudice, The Divine Comedy, etc.

If you let your kids play with your iPhone (I'm not there yet, it's MINE!), you'll want to check out Lightsaber Unleashed. They can swing the iPhone around like a lightsaber. Yeah, my kids can use their own lightsabers. We only have about a dozen lying around here somewhere.

I could go on and on. There's of course Solitare, Hangman, Casino games, and much much more. Have fun! And let me mention it again, these are all free.

Winners from August Contest

2008-09-19T13:04:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to our 2 winners from our August - Happy Birthday to Emily Allyn - contest, Melissa from NJ and Lahia from LA! They each won a copy of the book, Baby Gizmo, and a toddler shirt of their choice.

Thanks again to everyone who entered and took the time to answer the survey questions. Your input in valuable.

Be on the lookout for another giveaway coming next Friday. I know you'll love this one too... think shoes!

Burn After Reading

2008-09-16T23:11:00.003-05:00

While in Kansas City, MO this weekend, my husband and I went to see Burn After Reading: Intelligence Is Relative.

Go see it. Go, go, go. Run to the nearest theater. Get the sitter lined up right now and see it tonight. Be spontaneous. Nothing is better than laughing through a date (I don't mean laughing at your date, of course).

It's a Coen brothers movie. So you know it's funny. It's much funnier than Fargo and not quite as dark. Still a tad dark but also an absolute riot.
It's unbelievable cast includes:
George Clooney
Frances McDormand (who is married to Joel Coen)
John Malkovich
Tilda Swinton
Brad Pitt
and more actors you will definitely recognize.

Now, believe it or not I'm in the minority here... I'm not a huge Brad Pitt fan. I like him, he's ok to look at, but I don't get the all the hub-bub surrounding him. But I will admit, he is damn funny in this movie. He plays his character flawlessly.

Speaking of Fargo. I have to tell you this quick story. While we were in Kansas City, a bartender asked us where we were from. We said Minneapolis/St. Paul. To which he replied, "Really? You don't have that Fargo accent." Can I tell you how much I despise that comment! I wanted to say, "That's because it's a Fargo accent. Not a Minnesotan accent. Fool." While, I understand the difference isn't worlds apart, there is still a difference. Not that there's anything wrong with the Fargo accent...

The two funniest scenes to watch for are when Brad Pitt and Frances McDormand are on the phone with John Malkovich and when Brad Pitt is in John Malkovich's car. If you like that humor, you may have tears rolling down your cheeks.

This is a highly confidential editorial on this movie. Please Burn After Reading this.

Tina Fey for Vice President

2008-09-15T15:32:00.003-05:00

Did you miss Saturday Night Live this weekend?
If so, you must, must see Tina Fey portray Sarah Palin. She is a dead ringer. With her is the wonderful Amy Poehler doing her spot-on Hillary Clinton impersonation. It is an absolute riot.
You might even pee your pants a little... just a little.

Here is the NBC SNL 5 minute cut.

Put aside your political views and have a few laughs. Of course SNL makes fun of everyone - not just Sarah Palin.

Hook, Line, and Sinker

2008-09-12T08:05:00.000-05:00

I want the latest iPhone - the new 3G.
I saw an advertisement for it recently. I decided to go to Apple's website and check it out. (Side note: what is it with me and apples this week? See my other 2 posts.) I watched a tutorial and now I'm hooked. I can't believe how cool it is.

Phone
iPod
Internet on the go
Email on the go
Maps with GPS
I could update my blog anywhere
Calendar
Photos, Camera
Weather
Calculator
Movies

I'm drooling over here...

A Slice of Heaven

2008-09-10T11:11:00.001-05:00

Love this idea.
You spend at least an hour making the apple crisp: peeling the apples, cutting the apples, making the topping, and baking it. Your creation turns out beautifully and you are quite proud of yourself. You should be. But when you go to serve it, the piece of apple crisp looks like a heap of mashed gooey apples thrown on to a plate.

The answer to your dilema lies in the Individual Pie Slice Pan. Your presentation will receive a 10 and the lucky eaters will gobble it up because it looks so scrumptious. Then you toss them in the dishwasher and voila, clean. Dare I say, easy as pie?

At only $9.95 for a set of 2 slices, you can buy as many or as little individual pans as you need. Perfect.

Use the handy dandy kitchen gadget from yesterday's post to make this mouth watering dessert!

Slice It. Peel It. Core It.

2008-09-09T23:32:00.002-05:00

Sounds like the latest dance move. Slice it. Peel it. Core it.

The handy dandy apple slicer, peeler, and corer all in one gadget. It suctions right to your counter for easy use.

I have had this kitchen gadget for almost 10 years. Granted, I usually only use it in the fall when making baked apple dishes (like apple crisp, I love apple crisp), but it will last. Some versions can be thrown in the dishwasher. This kitchen tool cuts the time it takes me to make apple crisp in half, easily. The person who invented this product should be given an award from some National Baking Association, if there is one.

I have to imagine for all those out there who make their own applesauce or apple baby food, this would be a big time saver!

Garnet Hill

2008-09-04T13:35:00.006-05:00

So, recently I received a Garnet Hill catalog in the mail. I really can't remember the last time I paged through a Garnet Hill. Some of it just really isn't my taste. But I discovered some great finds. As usual, I thought I would share them with you so you don't have to scour the website or catalog yourself.

(Thought: Do you think when I reach the gates at heaven and everyone in front of me is explaining how they gave back - maybe they served the public by being Mayor of their town or a Judge in their County, or they gave back to their community by helping with Meals on Wheels or donating scads of money to organizations or spent their time raising money for worthy charities, or they helped children by providing foster care, or they worked in Social Services - do you think I can say, "I gave the gift of time to people by researching great finds on the internet so they wouldn't have to"? Do you think that will fly at the pearly gates?)

On we go...

Modern Merino Sweater - Tunic style - Nice take on the tunic.

Silk-Trimmed Sweater - Adorable (not so big on the tank though).

Asian Wrap Long-Sleeve Pajamas - Different, looks comfy.

Cheetah Faux-Fur Coat - PETA would be proud.

Provence Cosmetic Bags - Who doesn't need a cute cosmetic bag?

Apple Blossom Sateen Bedding - Reminds me of Calvin Klein.

Dot to Dot Percale Bedding - For the girls' rooms. Love the Pistachio Ground and the Ballerina Pink Ground.

I Love You The Purplest

2008-09-03T10:54:00.000-05:00

I think this book, I Love You The Purplest by Barbara Joosse, was written for me - seriously. It almost fits my family to a tee.

It's about a mom and her two boys - just like me and my boys.
One has the favorite color red and the other boys' favorite color is blue - just like my boys.
The boys are competitive in every way - who has the biggest worms, who rows the fastest, who has the biggest fish, etc. Is somebody watching my household?
The family is up at a cabin on a lake fishing. This is close to my family though I don't fish much, that's my husband's love.

About the only thing that does not resemble my family in this book is the mom wearing a dress while taking her boys fishing. You will not catch me in a dress on a fishing boat, ever.

It ends with the boys asking Mom who she loves the most. This is how the author ties in the color purple. She loves one the reddest and one the bluest for many reasons.

If you have two boys and they have a little competitive edge to them, buy this book. You will love it! Age estimation is 4 years - 8 years.

Don't Forget

2008-08-29T10:51:00.002-05:00

Our Happy Birthday Emily Allyn contest will come to a close in one week - Friday, September 5th. Make sure you give yourself a chance to win a book and Emily Allyn clothing!

For more details, visit the Emily Allyn website and click the Win, Win, Win image.

Have a wonderful Labor Day weekend!

Full Circle

2008-08-27T23:06:00.005-05:00

You've heard of David Cook. But have you heard of Reggie Hamm? He is the writer behind the lyrics to David Cook's uber popular song Time of My Life.

Reggie has a truly amazing story to tell and he told that story to HMC Magazine. At least once during the story your body will quiver while you feel a chill run down your spine.

Read the story.

Now that you know the story, download the song Time of My Life, and listen to the words. Think about how words to music mean different things to different people. The words Reggie Hamm wrote take on a very different meaning than say someone who thought about the words while NBC played it during the Olympics.

Here are the lyrics:

I’ve been waiting for my dreams
To turn into something
I could believe in
and looking for that magic rainbow
On the horizon
I couldn’t see it
Until I let go
Gave in to love
Watched all the bitterness burn
Now I'm coming alive
Body and soul
Feelin’ my world start to turn

And I'll taste every moment
And live it out loud
I know this is the time
This is the time to be
More than a name or a face in the crowd
I know this is the time
This is the time of my life
Time of my life…

Holdin’ onto things that
Vanished into the air
Left me in pieces but
Now I'm rising from the ashes
Findin’ my wings and all that I needed
Was there all along
Within my reach as close as the beat of my heart

And I’ll taste every moment
And live it out loud I know this is the time
This is the time to be
More than a name or a face in the crowd
I know this is the time
This is the time of my life
Time of my life…

Now I’m out on the edge of forever
Ready to run Keepin’ my feet on the ground
My arms open wide
Facing the sun
And I’ll taste every moment
And live it out loud I know this is the time
This is the time to be
More than a name or a face in the crowd
I know this is the time
This is the time of my life…

School Memories

2008-08-26T21:51:00.002-05:00

It's true, you slacked on the baby book. Get over it and redeem yourself with a School Years Memory Book from Amazon. There are many from which to choose. The one I like is School Years: A Family Keepsake of School Memories. It is spiral-bound (read: preschooler cannot easily ruin binding), the price is phenomenal at only $11.53, and there are small pockets to store pictures from each year. I had one like this growing up. I still have it! It's fun to look back on it and think, "Oh yea, I remember that!" It's also fun to see my own handwriting. So, let that be a lesson to you parents - let your child fill in the blanks even if the penmanship is a bit horrendous!

Foot Fetish

2008-08-22T09:36:00.000-05:00

Here in Minnesota these wouldn't be too practical this time of year, considering we would get about one month of use out of them. But somewhere in Southern California someone is screaming out for these.

The Shoe Chaise Lounge by Skyline Design. Now that is putting your creative brain to work. I absolutely fell in love with this when I saw it. I think it is so original and fun. It just says "relax". What woman doesn't love a pair of new stylish shoes? And get this, they are even comfortable!

Whoever buys this simply wonderful furniture, do me a favor. Paint the underneath side, the sole, a bright red and pretend they are Louboutin Lounges. (Joke.)

The Shoe Chaise Lounge is truly a work of art.

Déjà Vu

2008-08-20T22:43:00.001-05:00

Can you say Cabbage Patch Kids? Are you old enough to remember this craze? Moms were pushing and shoving and fighting other Moms to get their hands on these dolls for their own little girls.

Lesson learned.

The newest Elmo, Elmo Live, is now available for pre-order. So, even though it's 85 degrees and sunny and warm, you need to start thinking about the holidays. "Elmo waves his arms, sits and stands, and even crosses his legs while telling stories and jokes, singing songs and playing games." Now that sounds like a fun toy. I can remember all the giggles we heard from our son with the Tickle Me Elmo. The toy got old after awhile, but Elmo Live sounds a little more interesting.

If you know your toddler would absolutely love this furry little guy you can pre-order your Elmo Live doll at Amazon.com for $65.99 and free shipping or straight from Fisher Price for $60.00 plus shipping. I've seen other stores with the pre-order for more moola.

Why not save yourself the hassle of the crowds and just pre-order him online? It couldn't be any easier! Just like the Cabbage Patch Kids (and the other Elmo dolls), I'm sure everyone and their mother will be buying him up, so don't wait. (I'm not making money off this little push of mine. I'm only thinking of days yore when trying to find Christmas presents at the last moment only to have what you want all sold out... everywhere. And I'm not paying quadruple the cost on Ebay, thank you very much.)

Motivating Children To Learn

2008-08-20T09:31:00.000-05:00

10 Ways To Motivate Your Child To Learn.

I found this short article on msn.com.
Interesting, good reminders, and good tips.

Read on.

Tiny Prints

2008-08-14T16:10:00.012-05:00

I love this image. Every time I see it, I smile and giggle. "I've arrived." Classic and so true. It's all about the baby.

I'm sure you need absolutely no introduction to the above image. It's everywhere. In Marketing 101 this company received an A+. But just in case you fall into the 2% of the population who hasn't seen this image, let me introduce you. It belongs to the genius minds at Tiny Prints - a must when ordering announcements, invitations, thank yous, and labels.

Recently, I received some cards from Tiny Prints. They are every bit as classy, fun, original and dynamic as the website claims.

As I'm scrolling through their website trying to pick out some paper to highlight, I honestly can't decide which ones to show you! They are all adorable. I am completely serious. Have a look for yourself.

Baby Girl announcements (click view all and get that scroll finger ready)
Baby Boy announcements (same drill)
Baby Shower announcements (gender neutral, they also carry gender specific)

Birthday Party invitations (some of my favorites: the pirate, the cowboy, the slumber party, and the pink castle)
Tiny Prints also carries invitations for almost any kid-related occasion you can think of, many thank you notes as wells as gift tags and labels.

The company is growing so fast they just launched Wedding Paper Divas to keep up with the demands from brides-to-be.

I'll go out on a limb and say if you can't find anything at Tiny Prints that suits you and your occasion, you might have a problem.

Tiny Prints - you will be totally satisfied (please try to say that without your Valley Girl accent).

Johnny Boden

2008-08-13T12:11:00.003-05:00

It's time for my seasonal Johnny Boden post.
Right now the special is 15% off your purchase of $150 or more along with free shipping and returns.

Here are some of my favorite finds.

Fab Day Bag in Dalmation and Red, $218 - $240.

You can pull out your matching Fab Wallet from you Fab Day Bag, $74.

Are you in to having your bag match your shoes? Here's some funky dalmation wedges, $178.

Sassy Textured Cardigan, $108.
Hamptons Cardigan, $108.

Merino V-neck is good for layering, $78.

If you can wear knit, the Knitted Ruffle Dress is adorable, $98.
Love this Spot Coat, $278.

Tag, you're it.

Graffiti You'll Love

2008-08-12T14:20:00.000-05:00

I love quotes. They can be clever, witty, sad, meaningful; and they can even inspire. I have a rock which reads simply, "Courage." But the box it came in reads, "Feel the fear and do it anyway." I love it!

Wonderful! Graffiti places all your favorite sayings, ideas, wishes, definitions, monograms, and expressions on a removable transfer. The words look as though you painted them on the wall. The transfer is made from a very thin piece of vinyl. I've seen it, you can't even tell it's vinyl.

There's an array of ideas to choose from, it might get a little overwhelming, in a good way. And you can create your own personalized graffiti. Be creative, let the juices flow. Use their ideas for inspiration.

Surprise your husband with this one in his closet or somewhere he will see it everyday. Even after a month if he doesn't "see" it anymore because he's so used to it, you can easily take it down and replace it with a new little message!

Someone needs to send this one to Obama since his campaign is based on the word Change.

If you love quotes, start here.

If you are a man reading this, do not, I repeat do not buy this one for the wifey.

If you have a daughter who has moved out on her own. Be sure to give her this. Subtle, I know.

All I can say is cool, cool, cool. I love this product. What an exceptional idea.

A Cool Job

2008-08-11T22:49:00.001-05:00

How would you like to fly around our amazing country and blog about it?
Southwest Airlines is looking for someone to do just that!
Job Title: Blogospondant
What: Online casting call
For whom: Southwest Airlines
When: Now through August 31st.
How long is the assignment? One year.
For more details.

Go for it!

The Olympic Schedule

2008-08-09T09:17:00.003-05:00

Watching the olympics is an amazing experience.

In case you are wondering what games are being played when. Or if you want a quick guide at your fingertips, you can check out nbcolympics.com. After plugging in your zip code, you receive a listing of times. Click a time and see all the sports listed at that time and what channel they are on (whether you are cable, DirecTV, etc).

Also on the left is a list of the sports. Click a sport you are intersted in and view the date and time of the games. I know my husband will want to watch (a.k.a. drool over) women's beach volleyball, for example. I found out the United States plays on 8/9 at 6pm. Simple!

BWCA

2008-08-07T23:05:00.002-05:00

I'm baaaack! Honestly, I had all the intentions in the world to post while I was gone. I was up in Northern Minnesota, borderline with the BWCA (Boundry Waters Canoe Area) and right off the Gunflint Trail. My in-laws own a cabin up there and they have satellite internet. How sweet is that? In God's country with internet. They don't even get cell service up there, so the internet is like hitting the jackpot!
The scenery is gorgeous and relaxing. My husband absolutely loves it up there. I guess I got into relaxing a little too much in order to use the good old brain cells to post something credible for all of you to read. But I'll start up again on Monday. Thanks for waiting.

I'm excited for the Olympics to start tomorrow.

The Toadstool

2008-07-30T17:13:00.004-05:00

The Toadstool table and chair set screams creativity. How cute is that? It's like an image you might find in a Disney Pixar fairytale movie. Can you picture your little girl sitting around having a tea party with the other neighbor girls. (And the boys in forrest steadily creaping up behind them ready to scare the daylights out of the little princesses!) But first your little enchanted princess needs to be sporting her Enchanted Forest Fairy Outfit. She will be the envy of all her little lady friends.

Another great find from Chasing Fireflies.

Bayfield, WI

2008-07-28T08:47:00.002-05:00

Family reunions... you gotta love 'em. I just returned back from mine this weekend. Family from all over the U.S. came - from Washington state, Texas, Tennessee, California, Florida, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. We met at a resort in Bayfield, WI called Port Superior Rentals.

Bayfield is a quaint little town located in Northern Wisconsin on Lake Superior (one of the Great Lakes for those not from around here). If you like to sail, Bayfield is known around the world for it's pituresque waters and the Apostle Islands, located just off-shore from Bayfield.

If you live around the Twin Cities or in Wisconsin, I know you've heard of the town and maybe you have even been there. But, if not, I highly recommend it!

fabMap (TM)

2008-07-23T21:59:00.005-05:00

I'm driving to Northern Wisconsin this weekend for a family reunion. I think I'll be bringing along my trusy new Rand McNally fabMap™. Oh, wait that's the Manhattan map. Whoops, that won't do me a lot of good. Hmmm... maybe I'll skip the family reunion and go to Manhattan instead. Right... better not. Ok, back to earth.

I thought fabMap stood for fabulous map, but it doesn't. The map is quite impressive actually. Get this, "It’s tear-proof, wrinkle-proof, waterproof, and requires no folding." Now try and get your brain around that for a moment. You can't can you. You are thinking to yourself, how do they make a map that doesn't have to be folded? And the image stuck in your head right now is you trying to figure out how to fold a map. No, the crease goes this way. No, the crease goes that way. Crease-no-more. The fab in fabMap stands for fabric. (Ahhh, ancient Chinese secret, eh.) Genious. A map made of fabric. You can just crumple it up or you can fold it however you want to fold it. (Not how the manufacturer thinks it should be folded.) Fabric and waterproof. Does it get any better than that? For maps, I mean.

And the 2008 Best In Show Award goes to fabMap™.

Oh and the family reunion is a whole other story. Which reminds me. I'm off for the remainder of this week. Tune in next week for more fabFinds. (And I don't mean fabric finds.)

Ickle, Pickle, and Tickle

2008-07-22T23:25:00.002-05:00

Me: Ickle me, Pickle me, and Tickle me were sitting on a fence. Ickle me and Pickle me fell off. Who was left?
You: Tickle me (now picture my arms coming out of your screen to reach out and tickle you).

It's one of my favorite kid jokes. Yes, the ones they say over and over and over again.

The picture above reminds me of this joke. Ickle me because my first reaction is just plain ick. Pickle me because it's green like a pickle. And Tickle me because when you sit in it, I can only imagine the hairs would constantly be tickling you. Plus, I must admit, it reminds me of Mr. Snuffleupagus. Aside from all that, I will say it is funky and a bit fun.

You can find the Baby Hairy Bertoia chair at Genius Jones. And if you have $850 burning a whole in your pocket, it can be yours. I can't imagine there are many people in your circle that have this chair, therefore it would truly be a unique find for you.

Ahead of Their Time

2008-07-21T21:29:00.003-05:00

The Social Security Administration revealed their annual Popular Baby Names list recently.
Guess which female name is number one?
Hey... you can't look! You already clicked the link, didn't you?
If not, here's a clue. Moi.
Yes, it is Emily again. Emily has been number one since 1996. I guess my parents were ahead of their time. And let me tell you how many times, as an adult, I have been at a store and heard, "Emily, Emily come here." I used to fall for it and turn my head wondering who knew little 'ole me. Now I'm clued in and know it's a parent's voice calling their daughter.

But enough about me :)

The number one boys name? Jacob. Followed by Michael, Ethan, Joshua, Daniel.

And the following spots for the female names goes to Isabella, Emma, Ava, and Madison. I'm just going to take a wild guess here and say that Friends pushed the name Emma into the top 5!

On the other spectrum, Allyn didn't even make the list in the last 18 years! I guess Emily and Allyn is popular and unique.

I think Emily Allyn should start a Popular Baby Nicknames list. What do you think?
Well, that's easy and here it is!
1. Peanut
2. Sweet Pea

3. Monkey

4. Baby Cakes

5. Silly Goose

6. Pumpkin
7. Crabby Cakes

8. Wiggle Worm

9. Little Love

10. Girly Girl

Another Funny

2008-07-18T12:12:00.001-05:00

For the weekend, I leave you with this...
You will laugh out loud at least 15 times, guaranteed.
I found this article on Cracked.com, 20 Baby Products Great For Traumatizing Infants. (Right click link and choose open in new window to read the article and my comments below side-by-side.)

#20 - Creepy
#19 - Gross to even think about having to do something like that, don't like the visual
#18 - Still doesn't look safe to me
#15 - As cracked.com puts it, "This is a great way to teach your children "I trust you exactly none."
#9 - OK, I understand they do this in other countries, fine, that is their culture and what they know. But that is in other countries people.
#8 - Think JonBenet.
#7 - I might just have to get me one of these.
#5 - Just plain wrong. Enough said.
#3 - So mean... yet so funny.
#1 - Well, Emily Allyn posted on this a loooong time ago! That's right, I guess we are just ahead of the game. Stick with us, we'll take you places.

Giveaways

2008-07-18T11:07:00.004-05:00

Starting today, Emily Allyn is featured on Bloggy Giveaways. We will be giving away clothes, clothes, and more clothes!
Each day one new company posts a featured giveaway (Mon-Fri). The post lasts a few days and then a winner is chosen (or winners, in our case). They have great items too, not crap - or yours truly wouldn't have even thought about being affiliated with the site :)

And if you are one of those negative-Nelly's that says, "Oh, I never win anything," just try. If you can enter each day, you will have approximately 250 chances to win throughout the year!

We've Got Spirit Yes We Do. We've Got Spirit How 'Bout You?

2008-07-16T22:41:00.000-05:00

What did I do on vacation, you ask? A number of relaxing and fun things, but one of them included reading a book I've been meaning to read for a while now.

Raising Your Spirited Child: A Guide for Parents Whose Child Is More Intense, Sensitive, Perceptive, Persistent, Energetic by Mary Sheedy Kurcinka.

Mary Sheedy Kurcinka describes a spirited child as a normal child who is more - more intense, more persistent, more sensitive, and more perceptive. "All children possess these characteristics, " she writes, "but spirited kids possess them with depth and range not available to other children. "

Does this sound like it might be one of your children? If not, scroll down and linger through my other posts. If so, I highly suggest you read Raising Your Spirited Child. If you are not quite sure yet, here are some characteristics Mary gives to each spirited child. She warns that not all spirited kids will bear each characteristic, but the characteristics they do display, they display with rigor.

1. Intensity: Loud, dramatic, shrieking, noisy when they laugh, play, and even walk. Or they can be intensely observant.
2. Persistence: The child "locks in" to an activity or idea.
3. Sensitivity: Responds to the slightest noises, lights, smells, textures or changes in mood.
4. Perceptiveness: They notice everything.
5. Adaptability: Uncomfortable with change, do not like surprises (and we don't mean surprise birthday parties!).

Do you find your days are like roller coasters? Do you use words to describe your "spirited" child like demanding, aggressive, stubborn, loud, manipulative, wild, whiny (well, ok who doesn't call their child whiny!), and argumentative?

See if you can relate to this story.
One minute I am snuggling with my son. We are reading together, giggling, and enjoying each other's company. He then gives me a big kiss, a bear hug, tells me I'm the "bestest" mommy ever, and runs off to the other room to find his older sibling. I am in hog-heaven.
Then out of nowhere you hear shrieks so deafening you think surely only dogs can hear them, but no you hear them quite clearly. You run to the other room to find your oh-so-lovable-one-minute-ago-son screaming, and I mean screaming, and hitting his brother. (The brother has his hands over his ears and is kind of retracting inward because of the noise. The hitting doesn't help either.) You need to know what happened and you start quizzing the older brother who says, "I don't know." You find yourself asking your son to calm down so you can get to the bottom of this, "William, can you please stop crying so we can talk?" He can't even hear me, you think to yourself. You raise your voice, "William, please stop crying. I want to talk to you." Still nothing but incredibly loud crying that is out of control and very annoying. You feel agitated and yell, "WILLIAM, STOP IT NOW. 1, 2, 3..." Now, either the crying escalates back to the shrieks or he stops crying only because he doesn't want to go to his room but he is still breathing like crazy and very angry.

This is just one example; an example that resonates with me, in fact - the shrieks, the uncontrollable crying, the hitting, the "not listening to me", not to mention my atrocious parenting style. After a few minutes of talking, I found out they were wrestling and the older brother hurt William.

This brings me to one of the most enlightening parts for me in Raising Your Spirited Child. Mary addresses this type of behavior. She explains, "Spirited children experience every emotion and sensation deeply and powerfully. Their hearts pound, the adrenaline flows through their bodies. There is actually a physical reaction that occurs more strongly in their bodies than in less intense individuals. They are not loud because they know it irritates people; they are loud because they really feel that much excitement, pain, or whatever the emotion or sensation might be. Their intensity is real. It is their first and most natural reaction. When you know your child is intense, you can expect a strong reaction and develop a plan to help your child express his reaction appropriately or diffuse it."

I can honestly say this was an epiphany for me. I now know this is his temperament. He's not trying to annoy me. He's not shrieking because he is over-the-top dramatic. Intensity is simply a characteristic which he has "more" of than other children. And it is real.

I realize this isn't meant to be an excuse. It is however an explanation, and in other chapters Mary speaks about how to handle the different temperaments. Though this is just one example for one characteristic, the whole book is devoted to sharing many, many examples and discussing ways to handle the temperaments.

Since this one post has become quite lengthy, I will end it here and post again in the near future with part deux. There is so much to say!

If you are chomping at the bit to know more, visit Mary Sheedy Kurcinka's website. She is a wealth of knowledge. Plus, she has written other fascinating books such as Kids, Parents, and Power Struggles (my next read), and Sleepless in America.

Amazing stuff.

The First Adventure

2008-07-15T20:34:00.003-05:00

Books in general are great, but personalized books for children are amazing.

Custom Made For Kids is an online store where you can personalize stories for your little one. The First Adventures of Incredible You is remarkably colorful, cheerful, interesting, and fun to read to your new baby over and over again. If you would like to see for yourself, visit Custom Made For Kids and click Virtual Book Tour on the left. You will fill out your child's name, birthday, favorite zoo, and friend (or relative). Then you get to see a few pages of what your book would really look like. Smart!

A storybook made specifically for your little princess or prince. Your child(ren) will grow up and treasure this keepsake for sure. Oh, and did I mention it has won awards?

Currently, receive 15% off when you use the code Custom15 at checkout.

My Glass Is 1/2 Full

2008-07-14T22:12:00.001-05:00

Summer is not half over. It's not. No way. No-how.
We still have half the summer left to enjoy!

While you think about that, here are some fabulous summer finds from one of my favorite sites, Spoon Sisters.

Everybody loves a tire swing. Well, how about a leaf swing or the ladybug rope swing? It holds up to 150 pounds, assuming the tree limb you attach it to can also handle 150 pounds!

For the ultimate sports enthusiast, there is the Why a Curveball Curves - The Incredible Science of Sports book.

It's summer. Get the kids away from Hannah Montana and The Suite Life of Zack and Cody for goodness sakes. Instead invest a cheap $17 into this book: Unplugged Play – No Batteries. No Plugs. Pure Fun. And you'll never hear, "I'm bored" anymore.

Or teach those kiddos a little bit about nature (hey, even if you're not chomping at the bit to discover nature, kids should be). Check out the Camp Out! - The Ultimate Kids Guide for the Backyard to the Backwoods book.

If you are a person who loves sunshine and blue skies (a few clouds are fine too), you will love this umbrella. Forget the rain, it's blue skies baby.

Take the kids to your favorite outdoor restaurant. While you wait your budding artist can practice her drawing with the Doodles at Dinner - Tear-Off Placemats.

Ok, so this next one really has nothing to do with summer. I just think it's clever. The Foot in the Door Door Stop is a new take on the whatever-you-can-find-at-that-moment to hold the door open. Heck, paint the bottom of the shoe red and pretend it's a Christian Louboutin.

Vaca

2008-07-06T13:10:00.002-05:00

I'm writing to you from beautiful Northern Wisconsin. My family is taking in a little R&R at the cabin in Hayward. So far we have been golfing (twice). Let's just say the Par 3 course and I are much better aquainted than a "regular" course. Yesterday we went canoeing down the Namekagan (I have to look up the spelling on that one) River. With all the tubers, we felt like we were going down an obstacle course. Crazy. Much more to come this week!

In other words more Amazing Finds for Moms and Tots will be delivered to you next week. See you then...

Pathological Charmers

2008-07-02T08:49:00.004-05:00

No, no, no I'm not referring to the Mr. Wrong we all seemed to find during our dating years (for some, over and over again).
In fact, this Charmer is the perfect follow up to the post from yesterday regarding the Lubber Totes...

These little charms, from Shoe Charmers, can decorate your Lubber Tote or any number of those rubber shoes you have strewn about the house. The pictures above highlight only a few of the many whimsical and adorable charms.

The upper left image is a glow in the dark skull. I can just see my boys spending hours in a dark room checking out each other's skulls. (For those of you who already think my boys are in the dark - well, take off, eh.)

Or you could buy all beach related charms and go with a beach theme, the sunglasses, beachball, sailboat, palm tree, seashell, flip flops. Heck they even have a coconut drink and suntan lotion bottle!

The boys can opt for a sports theme. They can fill their holes with basketball, soccer, football, baseball and tennis charms.

A little shameless self-promotion (hey, it's my blog): see the crab pictured above? It would match nicely with the Emily Allyn Crabby Cakes apparel. Picture the Crabby Cakes shirt and the adorable little crab shoe charmers; both on that "little character" of yours.

But alas my work is done. As if those aren't enough choices, you can visit Shoe Charmers to witness the mass of options.

Landlubber Minus the Land

2008-07-01T08:04:00.002-05:00

For those of you in love with Crocs (or any rubber shoe), and I believe that covers about 1/2 the world, you will love the Lubber Tote. It's a tote that will carry almost anything with the look and feel of those special rubber shoes. Even the "footprint" of the tote is similar to the shoe!

"The clog tote can be taken to the beach, rinsed, and dried just as you do your clog shoes." Now that is convenient. Think how often the bag you take to the beach gets sandy and dirty. The lubber tote makes it easy - simply hose it off!

The Lubber Tote comes in an array of colors - perfect to match those clogs of yours. Just in case you need more ideas for things to do with your fun bright tote, the website lists several. All this and only $16.99.

Don't forget to decorate your new tote with the ever-popular charms.

Word Up

2008-06-30T08:40:00.000-05:00

Smart, smart, smart. This is one of those "duh" products.

Word Lock has created combination locks using words instead of numbers. You pick the word from a minimum of 10,000 choices, and you can always re-set the word. Their collection includes bike/cable locks, padlocks, and luggage locks.

The padlock above sells on Amazon for only $9.99. No useless number sequence to memorize, no keys to keep track of (remember the really old padlocks?), just a simple word of your choosing. This is perfect for kids and adults.

As Word Lock says, "Easy to Set • Never Forget™, Wordlock®, Inc."

Thank You

2008-06-27T09:34:00.000-05:00

Recently, Emily Allyn participated in a baby gift basket for Angela Kinsey from NBC's The Office. She was kind enough to personally thank everyone with a quick note.

She had a baby girl born on May 3rd, Isabel Ruby. Her husband is Warren Lieberstein.

It was fun to receive!

Thought I would leave you with this for the weekend. Yes, I moved the post!

Sigh of Relief

2008-06-26T08:20:00.000-05:00

Talk about ingenious. These hip wrist bands, called Psi Bands and pronounced Sigh Bands, are a drug free solution for the relief of nausea. Most women who have been pregnant have dealt with some level of morning sickness, but it can also be used for motion/travel sickness, chemotherapy, and anesthesia. Now that is what you call versatile, plus it covers basically every human being out there.

The band uses acupressure by placing (you guessed it) pressure on a specific point in your wrist. You can control the amount of pressure by adjusting the colorful band. If you need a visual, you can watch a 17 second clip on the informative Psi Band website to see how it works and to answer any other questions you may have.

Next time your best friend tells you she's expecting you can buy her a Psi Band. She just might think it's the greatest thing since sliced bread.

Never Out of Style

2008-06-25T09:13:00.000-05:00

Animal prints will never go out of style.
I just bought a Dooney and Bourke Giraffe print leather handbag. I absolutely love it and I can't tell you how many compliments I've received in the past few days alone. I have to admit, I've never owned a Dooney and Bourke bag before. Their collection always struck me as bags for the older crowd. So either I've entered that older crowd or I'm wrong. They carry a ton of different style bags within the Giraffe print family. Dooney and Bourke also make a very fun Zebra print as well, if you are looking for something with more black. I've even seen some with some red accents.
Love, love, love this bag!

Where is Matt Now?

2008-06-24T09:56:00.003-05:00

Here is a good reminder that we really are all in this world together:

I am a part of HARO, where Peter Shankman released this on his site. You can also find the video and more information about Matt at Where the Hell is Matt dot com.

I hope this video makes you smile so much your face hurts :)

10 Years and Counting

2008-06-20T14:12:00.004-05:00

Today is my 10 year anniversary! I can hardly believe it. For the most part, I still remember that day pretty clearly - which is a feat in itself considering I can't remember much. Today I was doing some "preparations" like getting a pedicure and manicure. A wedding party came in for their appointments. The bride was so happy and so excited. I couldn't help but think to myself how lucky the bride-to-be is and what she has to look forward to for the next 10 years, plus. I've had 10 amazing years with my husband and we now have 2 wonderful boys. I'm thankful in so many ways and I can't wait for the next 10 years!

My husband and I are sending the kiddos off tomorrow to celebrate. One thing I'm excited for... waking up on my own, no kids pouncing on me!

Have a great weekend. I know I will :)

Windows Movie Maker

2008-06-18T22:51:00.001-05:00

I know you are wondering just where in the heck I've been. I know you have spent many sleepless hours worrying whether I was ok or not. And I know you have been missing your weekly fashion fix a la me. Well... the wait is over and here is my story.

I can now add movie editor and movie producer to my laundry list of skills and credentials. (Remember my so-called geek squad days?)

I have found something amazing on my computer that I didn't even know was there. Windows Movie Maker. For Mother's Day, my brother made a "movie" for his wife. The movie contained pictures from their life together - their trips, their kids, their friends, their celebrations, etc.

So, I decided to follow suit. For Father's Day, I made a movie of my own for my husband. Only I included pictures from our childhood as well. It was a hoot! However, making it was not such a hoot. And that is what I was doing all last week, scrambling to get it done by the eleventh hour.

It is an amazing tool, really - The Windows Movie Maker. I know it automatically comes with Vista and some XP editions. (But if you don't have it you can download it here.) It's quite intuitive and very fun to make. I will say my two main complaints are:
1) For some reason, 90% of the time I added a picture or moved a picture or created a transition (from one pic to another), my Windows Movie Maker would pause in Not Responding mode. Very frustrating, actually, because it would literally take 1-5 minutes to come back. This is no exaggeration. It could be because I'm on a laptop, I have no idea. I'm sure it doesn't happen to everyone or this product would be out the window (no pun intended).
2) Once the movie is complete, if you want to create a DVD (as opposed to watching it on your computer), it's actually not that easy... unless you have Vista Home Premium or better. I have Vista Home Basic, so I had to go through some trial and error to figure out what was going on and then do a little research on Google to figure out how I could download this movie I had spent (no joke) at least 25 hours making. I wasn't going to spend that amount of time on something, only to have it work on my computer damn it!

Disclaimer: the hours do include me scanning older pictures, many of them in fact. But nonetheless, the process was very time consuming. I must admit it was worth every minute and I know my husband appreciated it very much. The movie is 20 minutes long. I added music to it, so the whole ensemble was so fun to watch. A walk down memory lane. I highly advise using the program, unless you don't have the time. Then pay someone to do it!

There are quite a few features. If you have a microphone for your computer, you can narrate (or you could pretend you are Ralph Edwards from This Is Your Life and go from there). There are effects you can add to your pictures like zooming, panning, fading in/out, a ripple, sepia, and many more. And there are transitions you add which are fun ways to get you from one photo to the next. And of course, you can add movies from your video camera or computer. I think you can even capture still moments from those movies. So, there is a wealth of possibilities for the novice movie editor.

Now the question remains, can I add movie star to my resume since I am in the movie? Right...

Kate Spade Private Sale

2008-06-17T19:47:00.001-05:00

You heard that right! Private Sale. Well, how private can an internet sale be? But let's go with it people.

June 17-20, enjoy up to 60% off. I've checked it out and the prices look terrific.

Now you check it out!

As to what I've been up to the last week... that will have to wait until tomorrow.

Comfort After the C-Section? Yes!

2008-06-05T13:58:00.004-05:00

Czela Bellies - Fabulous fun and flirty underwear for the recovering C-section mom!

Talk about finding a niche market. The owner of Czela Bellies has designed something I have never seen before - which is refreshing, to say the least.

New moms who have just gone through a C-Section can still feel fabulous underneath... even if their abdominal muscles are screaming. The design, which is patent-pending, provides comfort and style for the new mom. Comfort and style? You don't hear those two words in the same sentence very often.

I absolutely love this print pictured above. And if you are lucky enough to have a hubby who thinks pregnancy is beautiful, he'll be digging these little pieces of eye-candy too. However, depending how you feel (remember you now have a newborn and just underwent surgery), you might want to keep these little treasures your own secret... for a few weeks anyway.

In addition to all the cute boutiques and maternity stores that will be fighting to get their hands on these, we also hope to see these in hospitals across the globe.

Once A Year

2008-06-04T13:07:00.003-05:00

I link to Creative Kidstuff quite a bit on this blog. The store is awesome and the people who work there are amazing. It's a wonderful concept. However, you don't need to live in the Twin Cities to get the perks. They have an online shop as well.

June 5-8, they have their "Once, and only once a year" sale where you can take 25% off everything in the store (and online).

What kid doesn't love the Parachute? It's a hit with all children. And this one even comes with balls to pop around. When you take the 25% off, it's only $37.49!
A take on Bocce ball, Boochie looks like it would be much easier for kids. Only $25.50 after your 25% off.
Rain, rain, stay here today. We have to paint our boots all day. $30 on sale day.
Simple toy. Great backyard fun. Especially if you have a hill! The See Me Tunnel. Will be $27.
Start the brainwashing young, is what I say. Maybe pretend play will turn into reality with this Breakfast in Bed Tray. This thursday only $13.75! Let the brainwashing begin.
Keep the Math fresh in the kid's heads this summer with these addition flash cards. Then it won't take them a month to get back into the swing of things. Also comes in subtraction, mulitplication, division, fractions, time, and money. Great concept. Each only $7.50 after 25% off.
And so, so much more.

If You Need A Good Laugh...

2008-05-29T18:56:00.000-05:00

To All Mothers:
Check this out... OMG, love it!
I leave you with this chuckle for the weekend.

Unfathomable

2008-05-28T15:25:00.002-05:00

Awhile ago my cousin sent me an email with a link by artist Chris Jordan, Running the Numbers.

Warning: the site takes a very long time to load, but be patient. Walk away and complete a task while it loads. I promise you will be blown away by these pictures.

I don't even know how to describe these pictures, so I'll let the artist do it for us: "Running the Numbers looks at contemporary American culture through the austere lens of statistics. Each image portrays a specific quantity of something: fifteen million sheets of office paper (five minutes of paper use); 106,000 aluminum cans (thirty seconds of can consumption) and so on... This project visually examines these vast and bizarre measures of our society, in large intricately detailed prints assembled from thousands of smaller photographs... I hope to raise some questions about the role of the individual in a society that is increasingly enormous, incomprehensible, and overwhelming." ~chris jordan, Seattle, 2007

I can not even fathom the pictures depicted on this website. For example,

Plastic Bottles, "Depicts two million plastic beverage bottles, the number used in the US every five minutes.

Cans Seurat (pictured above), "Depicts 106,000 aluminum cans, the number used in the US every thirty seconds.

Plastic Bags, "Depicts 60,000 plastic bags, the number used in the US every five seconds.

And it goes on.

Makes you think about the footprint we will be leaving on this amazing place we call home, Planet Earth.

Travel Light

2008-05-27T12:35:00.000-05:00

Summer is around the corner and it's a great excuse for people to jet off to Grandma and Grandpa's house, take a trip to Disney World, head up to the lake, see Yellowstone, or whatever tickles your fancy. As a mom, I know full well how these preparations go. You pack everything from clothes to junior's travel Nintendo to snacks (oh Lord, do not forget the snacks) to books to more clothes to shoes to jackets to... you get the picture.

Packing is now easier with the Trunki. This special suitcase for little ones eases the stress of packing (and getting places for that matter). The suitcase is so cool maybe little princess will want to pack for herself for once. In your spare time (did I say that?), draw some pictures on index cards of what she needs and how many. For example, draw a picture of a short sleeve shirt and write the number 5. Little Miss Independent might want to travel more often.

Getting through the airport is now easier with the Trunki. You know the drill - walking as fast as one can walk with toddler in tow, trying desperately to get to the security line and make your flight. You are weaving in and out of people holding on to your toddlers hand for dear life. Somehow you juggle lugging your suitcase, purse, and your toddler's suitcase behind you. How do you do it? No more; the picture above explains it all. And I truly believe they will have smiles on their faces just like the picture shows. Who wouldn't be smiling when riding on their suitcase while someone else pulls them and does all the work? I would. And their little feet will be ready to run when you arrive at your destination.

Be sure to check out the Trunki website for other ideas to keep the kiddies busy. They have a holiday journal, a memory game, are we there yet tickets, and some fun postcards to download. It's all about keeping them busy. Your boy-scout-of-a-husband will be so proud with your new motto - be prepared.

How Lazy Have We Become?

2008-05-22T10:12:00.002-05:00

I saw this so-called product today on Daily Candy. The Spinning Cone.
I can't believe someone even thought this product up. What's more unbelievable is that a store would carry it. I mean, come on. How lazy are the adults or children who use this?

If I'm going to reach for an explanation, I'll say it could be a white elephant gift, a joke gift.

And I love the description: "The answer for lazy lickers! This motorized ice cream cone will have your whole family fighting for them…" Fighting for them, really? Well, I guess if my family is wrestling each other to the ground for them that would involve some exercise and we wouldn't be considered lazy. Just lazy lickers.

Clarification: This blog is about Amazing Finds for Moms and Tots. I obviously don't think this product is amazing. I do however, think it is amazingly lame.

She Blinded Me With Science

2008-05-21T09:31:00.003-05:00

Summer is around the corner and you are starting to think "Cr*p, I need some activities for us to do this summer." Here is an idea that is sure to keep the kiddos busy for hours. You like the sound of that don't you!

Howtoons. Now, how do I explain the world of Howtoons? I guess Amazon does it best: "Part comic strip and part science experiment, Howtoons shows children how to find imaginative new uses for common household items like soda bottles, duct tape, mop buckets, and more–to teach kids the 'Tools of Mass Construction'!"

Sounds like a good time, eh? Wait, did they say duct tape? You might want to rip that page out. No need to teach your little one about the skills of hazing - that pastime is fizzling.

Howtoon also has a blog with even more science experiments. Plus a library for their content.

Grab some activities, the necessary household items, and relax while your children go crazy with fun. (Editor's Opinion: You mght want to be within watching distance, just to keep that eye in the back of your head tuned in on them.)

Crazy Busy

2008-05-13T12:26:00.000-05:00

I have a crazy, crazy busy week ahead of me.
I am going to take this week off from blogging, but I will be back next week!

Have a great week and weekend.

Winners from April Contest!

2008-05-07T22:14:00.003-05:00

I'm happy to announce that Shelli from Oklahoma and Anna from New York are our winners from the April contest! WOO HOO. You go girls. Way to take those 2 whopping minutes out of your life to enter the contest and win, win, win!

We have the same contest going on during May. Go to Emily Allyn and click the contest image to find out all the dirty details... oh sorry, this isn't the National Enquirer, I guess the details aren't exactly dirty. I would describe the details as... easy. Yes, super, super easy!

Good luck.

Icy Hot

2008-05-06T09:24:00.001-05:00

"What?" You are saying to yourself. "Icy Hot? How can something be Icy and Hot? Doesn't make sense, Emily. You have finally fallen off your rocker."

Not so fast there, Superwoman. It will make sense once you check out Icy Bag. As Paris Hilton would say, "It's hot." Sorry to disappoint you, I'm still rockin' away.

As a mom, have you ever reached for the bottle of water in your car only to find it all warm from sitting in the sun? Or when you've been traveling have you wondered how you are going to keep that Amoxicillin cold for baby Joe's painful ear ache? Icy Bag has the answer for you. A compact soft sided cooler-bag to keep those small items nice and cool.

It's perfect for a whole slew of things from cosmetics to snacks to medication to creams and lotions. "IcyBag is the perfect accessory for travel, the beach, golf course, mom's on the go, gym, car, shopping, anywhere you're heading where it's hot, hot, hot! Our bag is big enough to store all your essentials yet small enough to fit in your handbag, diaper bag or travel bag."

And they start at only $14.99. Bargain.

It's Polite To Share

2008-05-02T09:17:00.002-05:00

I've finally arrived to the 21st century and added the Bookmark/Share button at the end of each post! Now it is easy for you to share the posts on your favorite social networking sites. And there is always the little envelope icon at the end of each post if you want to email the post to your friend.
Pssst... pass it on, please!

Athleta

2008-05-01T15:17:00.005-05:00

Here is a picture of me during my morning routine.

And if you believe that, I have some real estate over yonder I'd like to sell you! I wish I could do that. For those who can, no need to rub it in. My yoga capabilities are getting much better, but still...

I have officially started my countdown to Mother's Day. My countdown doesn't actually include me counting down, it just means there's no holding back on purchases for myself - especially things I don't love spending money on. Wait, is there anything? Yes, yes there is. Workout clothes and beachwear. I like to buy workout clothes, it makes me feel better to wear a little something new, but I wouldn't put it in the love-to-buy category. And swimsuits... is there anyone on the face of this planet who has had kids that loves to buy swimming suits? Especially those of us who live in Minnesota where our thighs haven't seen sunlight in 6 months. Nice thought, eh?

If you have been searching for some summer clothing for the beach and Yoga, try this website, Athleta. I like that you can shop by sport (towards the top); it's not just for yogi's and beach-goers. And I will admit their suits are pretty dang cute. Their pitch - The Combinations are Endless. It's actually true. Wait until you see all the styles and prints. I think this Summer Shade Tee looks very comfortable and this Swim Coverup Crochet Hoodie is darling.

Going to a crazy pool party? Try this Printed Shoreline Skirt. Worthy enough to wear to the party and if you get thrown in the pool towards the end of the night, you won't care because it's made of swimsuit fabric, bonus!

You're it. Your turn to find some things.

Oh, and the picture above is from the Athleta website.

Cabins and Beaches

2008-04-29T22:55:00.001-05:00

Here in Minnesota the weather isn't so great. It's the end of April and quite frankly, I'm sick of it. But I told myself I am going to start thinking summer anyway. Mentally, I'll be going up to our cabins and there are a few things I found in Pottery Barn Kids that would be perfect!

Adirondack Chairs - how dang cute are these with all those bright colors? Not only are they fun, they are "green". Made out of sustainable eucalyptus. Hmmm, interesting. Plus you can get a name printed on the chair. Perfect and only $69.

My kids are a little older (not toddlers anymore), so they can start hauling their own stuff around in these kids sized beach totes printed in whales or sharks. $34 (free shipping until May 22).

If your child is a sand-nut, she will absolutely love this oversized sandbox with it's own canopy for protection.

To spice up the mood and make sure everyone is having a blast, check out these games - the Beach Toss and SkeeBall (and really, who doesn't think SkeeBall is a hoot?)! $39 and $49 respectively.

Think summer. It is coming, I promise.