Showing posts with label website review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label website review. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Grammar Made Easy, Writing Made Great

Did you know that you can learn to write with correct grammar and proper punctuation without learning the rules? This last summer, author, pastor, and teacher Fred Lybrand introduces a radically different way of thinking—and learning—about grammar in his simple, yet revolutionary, new curriculum, The Writing Course-Educator’s Version. He straightforwardly offers twelve basic writing “secrets” that virtually anyone can master and that will transform “grammar-challenged” students, parents, and even professional adults into excellent writers. “We are losing a generation of writers to email, IM, and instruction that doesn’t show students how English really works,” says Lybrand.

The Writing Course-Educator’s Version is not only designed for those who constantly struggle with the difficulty of writing, but also for those who just want to write better. Lybrand’s proven approach to writing and grammar solves the problems of what to say, how to say it grammatically, and how to make sure the punctuation is correct. And, the course also shows the sure-cure for poor spelling!

“When a student is not worried about grammar or punctuation, he can learn to write in his own uniquely powerful and effective style; which is the current emphasis placed on writing by the recently modified TAKS test (Texas) and on the SAT college exams,” says Lybrand. “Something more is required than just throwing grammar rules at our students. Instead, our goal should be to teach our children ‘to learn how to learn for themselves.’”

While history has clearly demonstrated the value of the principles taught in The Writing Course-Educator’s Version, there is no writing course even remotely similar to what Lybrand teaches. With a methodology that teaches parents or students how to get engaged in the process of learning the elements that go into writing correctly and effectively, The Writing Course-Educator’s Version immerses students in twelve secrets all truly great writers finally discover (and sometimes aren’t aware of themselves).

“For anyone who likes (or even dislikes!) writing, this course can totally release him or her from the constraints of grammar and punctuation rules and regulations,” says Lybrand. “It also allows parents to become more involved in the schooling process of their own children, whether they attend public, private, or home school.”

Working as either a full curriculum or a supplement (kids in public or private schools can use this training after school to improve their own writing), The Writing Course-Educator’s Version comes as a combination of audio lessons, a printable workbook, and a full transcript of Lybrand’s writing seminar. In sessions of about 30 minutes each, over 21 lessons, students will experience the instruction and exercises necessary to learn the strategic principles which are the building blocks of great writing.

Sunday, July 19, 2009

MMMMMMMM.....MILK~ Why Milk?

I have always loved milk, and the many forms of milk: milk in the glass, milk in cheese, milk in shakes, milk in smoothies, milk in ice cream...MMMM....milk! It really does a body good! Milk is loaded with good nutrition, vitamins, and great for bones! I have recently been introduced to a great milk website called whymilk.com. Whymilk.com has so many great suggestions for ways to incorporate milk into your daily intake. Personally, I don't mind drinking the recommended 3-4 glasses a day; however, I know there are many ways that everyone can get the dairy our body needs~ even if you don't like milk by itself. I have made several smoothies for my family, and my kids (and husband) love drinking them. Not only are they getting a serving or two of milk, they are getting fruits, too. I use ice cubes, milk, frozen (thawed) fruit, banana, vanilla yogurt and some sweetener. Unfortunately I have recently laid our blender to rest, so once my new one comes, I can try the delicious recipes found on whymilk.com! I found a few recipes of different smoothies on the Whymilk website, like the Blueberry Blast, Mom's Mocha Indulgent, and the Peanut Butter Split Smoothie. I do have to say that the Avocado Mango smoothie sparks my interest...I wonder how that tastes?
Whymilk.com offers a great selection of meal ideas for breakfast, snack, lunch and dinner. I would like to try the different soup recipes. The Tomato Basil sounds really good! I think my husband would like to try the At-home Cappuccino recipe. There are so many recipes that make a recipe great, and you are getting what your body needs when you consume them! I am so glad that Mom Central introduced me to Whymilk.com. It will be fun to introduce new recipes to my family with this great website. I usually don't have too much difficulty having my kids drink milk, smoothies, or eat any other dairy product.
Whymilk.com has great tips and tools to help figure out how you can get your servings of milk in different forms, check your BMI and how many calories you burn, how your beverage choices impact you, how to recover from workouts with milk and more! I found the website to be very helpful and filled with great information. Whymilk.com also offers fun contests, so checking out the site can be even more beneficial when finding great recipes to use milk in. I know this is a site I will be adding to my favorites!
Thank you Whymilk.com and Mom Central for letting me learn more about milk, the benefits, and for sharing this with my readers!

Monday, June 29, 2009

Operation Kid-to-Kid: serving needy children around the world

What do think about when you read headlines about economic hardships, natural disasters, and politically charged conflict? Circumstances like these set families and entire communities reeling, and few people are affected as profoundly as the children involved. How do the littlest victims cope with the changes and uncertainty around them? And what can the church do to reach out specifically to these little ones?
Group Publishing, the premier publishers of children’s Bible curriculum including Sunday school and VBS, believes that some of the best ministers to children experiencing disaster and hardship are other children. That’s why they have created a program called Operation Kid-to-Kid (OK2K), which partners with nondenominational Christian ministries like International Bible Society and World Vision to provide opportunities for children in North America to share God’s love with other children in difficult or disastrous situations. Since its inception ten years ago, Operation Kid-to-Kid projects have impacted millions of kids all over the world.
“Operation Kid-to-Kid is a great way to teach kids compassion and service,” says Joani Schultz, cofounder of Group and OK2K. “Children learn by doing. It’s one thing to drop a nickel in the offering plate, but when kids make a gift with their own hands, when they can be creative and personal, this leaves a real impression on both the givers and the receivers.”
Q: What is Operation Kid-to-Kid™?
A: Operation Kid-to-Kid™ is a partnership of Group Publishing, Inc. and nondenominational Christian organizations dedicated to creating hands-on service projects for children in North America. Operation Kid-to-Kid™ projects have ministered to kids all over the world. Over the years, Group’s Operation Kid-to-Kid™ has become one of the largest forces mobilizing children in serving other children around the world. Millions have been impacted with gifts of comfort critters, school supplies, Bibles, hygiene kits, Christmas gifts, Bible coloring books, and socks and shoes. Operation Kid-to-Kid™ gives children a meaningful service project that will change their hearts as they help change the world.
Q: What is a Comfort Critter? Where do I get the Comfort Critters?
A: Comfort Critters are adorable, easy-to-assemble crafts designed especially for kids to make and receive. Custom-made Comfort Critters are available from Group and Group suppliers. This year’s special critter is a cuddly little turtle that reads “God Cares” and features a pocket so each child can include a special message to another child in need.
Q: We all want to teach our kids about God’s compassion. Why are the Operation Kid-to-KidTM Comfort Critters so effective for this purpose?
A: Children learn by doing. While activities like collecting spare change definitely serve a good purpose, it’s hard for young children, who don’t really understand the value of money yet, to understand how the money they collect will minister to other children. But all children know what it’s like to be scared or lonely. They know how a teddy bear, stuffed animal, or blankie makes them feel better. As they use their own hands to make these little turtles, they are creating personal, tangible expressions of compassion. The handy sewn in pocket gives them the opportunity to send a message from their own hearts. And because they make two turtles—one to give away and one to keep—they will have a touchable reminder that other children are struggling and in need of compassion and comfort.
Q: How many Comfort Critters will I need?
A: You will need two for each child participating—one for them to keep, and one to give away.
Q: Can I use a different Comfort Critter for our church service project?
A: Not if you are distributing it through International Bible Society for disaster relief. They’re counting on receiving these Comfort Critters with the special message of God’s love. IBS has learned it’s important that items distributed to children should be identical. No child should feel less special because his or her Comfort Critter doesn’t look like the others.
Q: Do I have to send my Comfort Critters to the International Bible Society for distribution?
A: Feel free to tweak your Operation Kid-to-Kid™ program. You can use your Comfort Critters as a local community service project—or send the items with your church mission team.
Q: Besides the Comfort Critters, what other Operation Kid-to-Kid™ projects can my group participate in?
A: There are so many ways to involve children in ministry throughout the year. Through the Rome VBS program, you can send monthly Bible readers to children in the underground church around the world. Since it is dangerous for these children to own a Bible, these comic book-style readers offer much needed encouragement.
The Operation Kid-to-Kid Prayer Bear missions program warms hearts and minds and allows children to share the joy of God’s love. Kids will learn what it means to help others as they create a Prayer Bear that says “Jesus” in English, Spanish, and French. Plus, everyone can personalize a message to put in their Bear’s pocket to send to an orphan in Africa. Join us in one of the world’s largest forces mobilizing kids in serving others around the world.
This easy, hands-on mission program can serve those in your local community, be sent to military personnel, or simply be sent to the International Bible Society for distribution to children around the world.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

WiggleTime (an online game source)

Recently, I was asked to review a fun new site featuring The Wiggles! My son and daughter really enjoy the Wiggles, and since we have ended our cable, it was fun to bring the Wiggles into our home from the computer. WiggleTime.com is a fun virtual world where my son (with my help) was able to create/design his character and play in the Wiggle World. He really enjoyed playing, exploring and being challenged in the online world.
WiggleTime.com was designed with the preschooler in mind. WiggleTime.com has been designed to provide pre-schoolers with their first introduction to the Internet in a fun, safe, educational and ad-free environment. Created as an early childhood developmental tool for both toddlers and their parents, it will be the ultimate online destination for children to learn while they play. I think that WiggleTime is a great way to introduce the internet to my preschooler, and he can get an idea how to use the keyboard and mouse.
Caleb's character (which we designed together) in Wiggle Time drove the Big Red Car, and had fun visiting different Wiggle locations like the Wigglehouse, Dorothy’s House, Wag’s Kennel, Captain Feathersword’s SS Feathersword, and Henry’s Underwater World. Caleb loved interacting with Wag best. Every time we checked out each location, we could watch a video and/or play games. The educational games are the primary focus of Wiggle Time and aid in the development of your child's numeracy, literacy, creativity and motor skills. Also, as your child progresses, the levels of each game get a bit more challenging.

WiggleTime.com can be experienced absolutely free of charge, for limited access and two video clips a month. To maximize the full potential of WiggleTime.com, subscriptions are available. Pay as you go, Monthly recurring and yearly subscriptions are available. The small subscription fee comes to under $6.00 a month and provides premium access to Wiggletime.com for up to four children on one account!

Special UNICEF subscriptions will also unlock more fun in the Wiggle Time world while donating a portion of the proceeds to UNICEF.

By subscribing to Wiggle Time, parents will have access to a number of tools including:

  • Progress reports that allow you to track your child’s activity while on Wiggle Time. These reports will provide you some observational based information on the games, activities and videos your child interacts with.
  • Access to a wealth of information on early learning techniques, including healthy eating, water safety, physical activity and toilet training.
Special promotions & product offerings (including pre-sale tickets to Wiggles concerts)

The Wiggle Time design is wonderful, creative and very kid-friendly. I really like the feature of a time out for the kids. Wiggle Time designed the virtual world to give kids a time out, due to time on the computer!

I am glad that I had the opportunity to review Wiggle Time. I did think that the site ran a bit slow, but I am told that they are working out that glitch. Seeing my son enjoy this virtual world and interacting with the characters of the Wiggles, was a fun experience.



Tuesday, June 2, 2009

New Wii game: Pirates vs. Ninjas Dodgeball



SouthPeak Interactive Corporation (OTC Bulletin Board: SOPK), introduces a new arcade-style videogame, Pirates vs. Ninjas Dodgeball, featuring iconic characters in the ultimate playground sport of dodgeball. Using a ball to tag opponents out of the game, Pirates vs. Ninjas Dodgeball transforms the innocent childhood game of dodgeball into an action packed, mind-blowing battle between Pirates, Ninjas and other eccentric groups of characters.
Who would win a fight between pirates and ninjas? It’s a tough question to answer and is a pop culture phenomenon that has generated YouTube videos, books, thousands of online postings and entire online communities in a rivalry that’s shown no sign of being settled…until now! Pirates vs. Ninjas Dodgeball for Wii™ was developed by Blazing Lizard to offer players the opportunity to settle this debate on the dodgeball court.
“The aim was to create a fun and exciting game for Wii™ which made the most of this rivalry in an energetic game that makes perfect use of Wii’s unique controls,” says Richard Iggo, VP Marketing of SouthPeak Interactive. “Pirates vs. Ninjas Dodgeball is unlike any other game currently available on Wii and delivers a brilliant single player game that really comes alive when your friends and family join in.”
The game is played with seven different teams, including the Pirate and Ninja teams, as well as Zombies, Robots, Aliens, Monsters and Mushroom Men (from the Mushroom Men games, also published by SouthPeak). The battles take place across eight visually breathtaking arenas where players look to settle the score once and for all.
Pirates vs. Ninjas Dodgeball is rated E 10+ and is available at major retailers nationwide. For more, visit http://www.southpeakgames.com/.
About SouthPeak Interactive Corporation
SouthPeak Interactive Corporation develops and publishes interactive entertainment software for all current hardware platforms including: PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, PSP® (PlayStation® Portable) system, PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Xbox 360® videogame and entertainment system, Wii™, Nintendo DS™ and PC. SouthPeak's games cover all major genres including action/adventure, role playing, racing, puzzle strategy, fighting and combat. SouthPeak's products are sold in retail outlets in North America, Europe, Australia and Asia. SouthPeak is headquartered in Midlothian, Virginia, and has offices in Grapevine, Texas and Leicester, England.

Monday, April 27, 2009

"A Quest for More": ABC conference


We live in a broken world. The evidence is everywhere—broken marriages, broken families, broken hearts, broken people. In response, more and more people in the Christian community are exploring biblical counseling. Yet this growing interest brings new questions and fresh discussions about what biblical counseling really looks like. The landscape of biblical counseling is changing, thanks in part to the work of organizations like the Association of Biblical Counselors (ABC). For anyone interested in these exciting new developments, ABC is pleased to announce the 2009 conference to be held May 14-16 in Fort Worth, Texas. The theme of this year’s event is “A Quest for More,” based on the book by keynote speaker Paul Tripp, one of the most dynamic speakers in biblical counseling today.

“I am overwhelmed with excitement over this year’s conference for several reasons,” says ABC President Jeremy Lelek. “On opening night, we are going to have four of the top scholars from various counseling ‘camps,’ including the American Association of Christian Counselors, Christian Counseling Educational Foundation, and the National Association of Nouthetic Counselors, who will discuss emerging trends in biblical counseling as well as distinctions between the various schools of thought. This is a truly groundbreaking event!” Residents of Dallas/Ft. Worth who are not attending the conference may purchase tickets to this exciting Thursday night-only event. The weekend will also include a tribute to special guest Elisabeth Elliot for her pioneering work in South America and across the world.

Lelek emphasizes that this event is not just for licensed counselors. These sessions are for counselors, pastors, and laity. Hurting people and those struggling to overcome certain issues in their lives are encouraged to attend. The conference features over twenty-five elective sessions with topics ranging from marriage and sexual addiction to spiritual warfare and crisis intervention. A sampling of titles includes:

· Living a Pure Life in a Sexualized Culture: Overcoming Lust, Understanding Your Enemy, and Living a Life of Repentance
· Soul Care: Starting a Biblical Counseling Ministry in Your Local Church
· Learning to Think Like a Christian
· The God Empowered Wife (for women only)
· Biblical Counseling with Adult Victims of Childhood Trauma
· When Suffering People Need to Know “Why?”

In addition, conference attendees will encounter opportunities to discover reliable referral services, network with like-minded believers, receive nationally approved Continuing Education Units, and be encouraged in their own lives and counseling ministries.

For more information about the conference and the many training opportunities offered through ABC, visit Christian Counseling.com .

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

DOLE contest!!


Chef Ben Ford and Dole has a great contest going on right now! You have until May 8th to enter this contest! You could win a trip to Los Angeles in June to cook with Chef Ben Ford, where you would then serve up a feast together with three of your friends at his restaurant, Ford’s Filling Station, in Los Angeles if you: Enter your best essay on how DOLE Canned Fruit is a staple in your pantry!

You could also win the weekly random drawing of one of eight DOLE Gift Bags with $100 in DOLE products, or one of two drawings for a $500 Visa gift card, if you:
Keep coming back to the DOLE: Make me a Chef website to check out Ben Ford's Signature Recipes or the other delicious recipes from Dole that you can make. Each time you log on, you will be entered in the random weekly sweepstakes drawing. (Maximum of one entry per day)
Tell a friend – for each friend referred, (Maximum of 5 entries/referrals per day) you are entered again into the sweepstakes. Click here to see the weekly winners so far!

***Please comment back on my post on which recipe was your most favorite. If any of you enter an essay, repost it in my comments and you can win enough coupons to refill your pantry with DOLE Canned Fruit ($25 value).***

HURRY!! YOU ONLY HAVE UNTIL MAY 8th!
Win the chance to cook alongside acclaimed chef, Ben Ford. Ben has created four signature recipes with DOLE Canned Fruit and wants to share his culinary tips with you and three of your friends at his latest hot restaurant in Los Angeles. Enter your short essay and you could win a beautiful weekend in Los Angeles in June cooking and sharing a feast with Ben Ford!

Monday, April 6, 2009

Making Life Better & getting ready for Easter weekend....

Easter is soon approaching, and many people are getting together with friends or family to celebrate. Celebrating together usually requires a good spread of food, and this families are seeking affordable recipe ideas. We still want to have a special meal that we will enjoy, but just keep the costs within our means. MakingLifeBetter.com has great holiday and everyday meal ideas. With a combination of trusted brands that offer great quality at affordable prices as well as plenty of recipes and tips to help make everyday life better, Moms now have an easily available resource to help with meal prep any day of the year. Keeping your pantry, refrigerator and freezer well-stocked for the holidays or social gatherings, can save you time and money. Here are some brands and recipes:
Here is a very simple recipe for Country-Style Glazed Ham made with Shedd's Spread Country Crock Calcium plus Vitamin D. For a great holiday meal offer, check your April 5th Sunday newspaper! You can get up to $20 back on your ham or turkey purchase by mail when you buy $40 in Unilever products like these during the month of April.
Bertolli Sauce: If you usually dine out for your Easter meal, but are trying to save money this year, serve a restaurant quality feast at your own table with Bertolli Premium Pasta Sauce. A delicious recipe for Lamb Chops a la Pizzaiola from top chef Rocco DiSpirito will have your family wondering if it came from an Italian restaurant.
Ragú Old World Style Pasta Sauce has a full serving of vegetables in every half-cup of sauce and is a good source of Vitamins A and C. For a family-friendly Passover dish, try Matzo Pizza with Ragú.
Knorr Sides: Spend less time in the kitchen by making a quick one-dish meal in three easy steps. Simply add your favorite cooked meat or chicken to Knorr Rice and Pasta Sides to make your family a satisfying one-dish meal, like Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo.
Recipe Secrets: Creating a Country-Style Pot Roast is as simple as combining a few ingredients in the Dutch oven to roast , including Lipton Recipe Secrets Onion Soup Mix, which provides the perfect blend of seasonings to create delicious, affordable meals and great recipes for every occasion. I love throwing a few ingredients into a crock pot and letting it simmer and cook all day. Makes the kitchen smell delicious, and makes an amazing dish to serve!
Bring a sweet ending to your Seder with a classic Hot Fudge Sundae using delicious Breyers All Natural Vanilla Ice Cream - a family-favorite made easily (and more affordable) at home!

Unilever, the consumer package goods company, has spent a great deal of time thinking about how to make everyday life better and help us find ways to create great meals and do more with less. The company's Web site, Making Life Better, features delicious recipes, affordable meal ideas and tips that stretch your budget and save you time. From Chicken Francese to Savory Roasted Potatoes, the secret to dinner success in my home is to keep a well-stocked kitchen filled with easy-to-prepare, delicious pantry staples with brands I know and trust.
Don't forget to look for the special coupon from Unilever for $20 off your ham or turkey, if you purchase up to $40 in Unilever products during the month of April! What a great deal!

This review is made possible from Mom Central!

Monday, March 23, 2009

Making Life Better

Trying to be creative, and getting ideas for supper isn't really a strength of mine. Sometimes I am inspired with a new concoction, but I usually look online or in a recipe book. My family loves new meals, and I was thankful to check out MakingLifeBetter.com.
Unilever, the consumer package goods company, has spent a great deal of time thinking about how to make everyday life better and help us find ways to create great meals and do more with less. The company's Web site, www.MakingLifeBetter.com, features delicious recipes, affordable meal ideas and tips that stretch your budget and save you time. I have always been one to try and "stock" the shelves with the pantry staples so I can be prepared. I know I will be checking out Making Life Better to get new ideas for our meals. Here are a few great ideas from the site:
· Wish-Bone Italian Dressing can do double-duty either as a delicious salad dressing or a great-tasting marinade for chicken, pork, beef and fish. For fast indoor cooking when an outdoor grill isn't available, try a grill pan to create an inside grill - a great solution for those with cold and snowy winter days like we experience in Minnesota.
· Need a budget-friendly meal? Try Baked Pasta Primavera with Ragu Pasta Sauce, which costs less than $2 a serving. Ragu Pasta Sauce has a full serving of veggies in every half-cup of sauce, so this recipe is a great way to sneak veggies into your kids' diets.
· I Can't Believe It's Not Butter! has new Cooking & Baking sticks that bake and taste just like butter! Even better is that they have 50% less saturated fat than butter, 0g trans fat per serving, and provide an excellent source of Omega 3. More importantly, this is a simple change that we can make to help our families live a healthier lifestyle.
· Your family can also enjoy a perfectly seasoned Pizza Meatloaf that you can prepare in no time with go-to ingredients like Lipton Recipe Secrets Onion Soup Mix and Ragu Pasta Sauce. With two Lipton recipe mix envelopes in each box, your family can enjoy pizza meat loaf one night, and onion burgers the next!
· And definitely look for Bertolli Oven Bake Meals, such as Stuffed Shells, in your grocery store's freezer. These restaurant-quality Italian classics can be prepared by simply opening the package, pouring the ingredients in your own oven dish and baking. What a great way to skip the Italian restaurant and enjoy a night in - especially if the kids are gone for the evening.
· Polish off dinner with a glass of great-tasting and refreshing Caribbean Tea Splash, made from Lipton Green Tea Bags, pineapple juice and cream of coconut (for less than a $0.25 a serving!)

Here is the recipe of the week: Creamy Asparagus Tart
Pastry for single-crust pie
1 Tbsp. vegetable oil
1 small sweet onion or leek, thinly sliced (about 1/4 cup)
1/2 lb. fresh asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (about 4 oz.)
1/2 cup Hellmann’s or Best Foods Canola Cholesterol Free Mayonnaise
2 eggs
2 tsp. Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
1/2 cup milk
Preheat oven to 375°. In 9-inch pie plate, arrange crust. With fork, pierce bottom of crust. Bake on heated cookie sheet 15 minutes or until golden; set aside.
Meanwhile, in 12-inch skillet, heat oil over medium heat and cook onion, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes or until tender. Add asparagus and cook 3 minutes or until asparagus is crisp-tender. Turn into pie plate, then evenly top with cheese.
In small bowl, with wire whisk, blend Hellmann’s or Best Foods Canola Cholesterol Free Mayonnaise, eggs, mustard and pepper. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth; pour into pie plate. Bake, on heated cookie sheet, on lower rack in oven, 25 minutes or until set and lightly browned.
~~YUMMY~~
I loved the recipes, and will be trying them out for sure! I think my family willenjoy a new variety. Thanks to MomCentral, I was able to be introduced to this great site, and share this information with my readers! MakingLifeBetter.com is a great website for every busy mom to get ideas from! There are other great ideas on their site covering information on beauty and style, home and family, vitality and wellness, tips, news and offers! What a great site to cover so much helpful information!

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

DS Game GIVEAWAY!

I don't personally have a Nintendo DS, but I wish I had one. I love video games, and I am not afraid to share that. I bought my son a Game Boy Advance for his success with potty training (that was 8 years ago). Someday, we may have to get a Nintendo DS. Anyway, The Game Factory has offered to sponsor a giveaway to my special readers for the World Championship Games Nintendo DS game! This game just came out this month, and up to 4 people can play!
From The Game Factory Site:
Description:
World Championship Games is the most realistic athletics simulation available on handheld consoles.
Create and customise your own athletes and compete with them in 14 different events at world famous arenas! Use the stylus to control your athletes as they run, throw, jump, shoot and more. Beat world records and collect medals to unlock additional events and other bonus items!
Challenge your friends and play the game as Nintendo WFC, Multi-card and single console 'pass around' modes for 2-4 players! World Championship Games is the most realistic athletics simulation available for a handheld console.
Featuring thirteen events with career, tournament, multi player modes and some of the most well known international stadiums. World Championship Games, quite simply, has it all. Unlock extra events by winning medals and compete in the ultimate test of human strength and endeavor - the Decathlon - and prove your are the best!
Key Features:
Accurate presentation of 13 events - 100m, long jump, shot put, high jump, 400m, 110m hurdles, discus throw, pole vault, javelin, 1500m, rifle shooting, pistol shooting and archery
Decathlon (career), Tournament, Quick Event, Practice and Multi player game modes
Achievements - Break records, accumulate medals and earn trophies to unlock additional events, stadiums and other hidden items
Create your own customized athlete with distinctive attributes
Superior character, animation modelling and in-game A.I.
Compete with other gamers via online multi player option/leader board

Seriously, maybe I should start saving for that DS, because there are so many fun sounding games! I bet you are wondering how you can win this game? To get your first entry, comment on any of my posts. With your comment, link to the comment you left on my site. You may comment on as many posts as you want to for each separate entry! You have many chances to enter this contest! You may come back each day and enter (again) after you do the first rule, just tweet about this giveaway and leave the url in your comment AND/OR Click here to see how you can earn even more extra credits to win!! Click here to see guidelines and the official rules. Contest will end on April 1ST, 2009 at 11:59 PM CST. GOOD LUCK!
This contest is made possible from Family Review Network & The Game Factory!

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Got Milk? Win Free MILK for ONE YEAR!!

To raise awareness of the importance of the “sunshine vitamin,” the got milk? Campaign will debut a new Web site, GetYourD.com. Visitors will have an opportunity to enter to win a free year’s supply of milk – “liquid sunshine.”
Milk is one of the few food sources of vitamin D. In fact, it’s the leading source of vitamin D in the American diet. The recommended three 8-ounce glasses of lowfat or fat free milk provide 75 percent of the daily value for vitamin D. Milk also provides eight other essential nutrients, including calcium, potassium and vitamin A, which many Americans also lack.
About the rules of the contest:
21 winners will be randomly selected to receive free milk for a year! (I sure hope I am one of them! We go through so much milk!)
Contest ends March 15, 2009 at 9pm ET. (HURRY TO SIGN UP!)
No purchase necessary.
To enter visit: GetYourD.com
For full prize details and rules please see Terms and Conditions.

Friday, March 6, 2009

Current by Discover Card (just for teens and parents)

It is so important to teach our children the value of money management and wise saving/spending. I was really excited to learn more about the new card program, Current by Discover Card. This is a "credit card" designed for the tween/teen (ages 13-18). What makes this credit card appealing is the parent has some control and knowledge of the card's usage. Kids want freedom, and want to spread their wings toward adulthood, and I think the Current by Discover card can be a good tool. It is too easy to spend all the savings teens get, or spend their allowance/check as soon as they get it. The Current Card helps us teach our kids born in a digital age how to manage spending. Like car companies that allow you to set the maximum speed limit on your teen's car, Current by Discover Card puts parents in control by letting us set (daily, weekly, monthly) spending limits, block certain merchant categories (like ATMs and liquor stores) and track your teen's spending online or through email and text message alerts. Plus, because it's a debit card product, the card stops working when the limit is reached without incurring any additional fees, which protects your teens from overspending. I think all credit cards should be designed this way, actually!
As parents, we have the responsibility to discuss wise spending habits as a family. Discover Card created an online resource, Current by Discover card, to help us talk with our kids about managing and spending money, and the importance of setting limits. Experience often serves as the best teacher. The Current by Discover Card provides kids with access to money in the way they want it while still giving the parents what we need - independent spending by our kids without debt or incurring hidden fees. No more surprise credit card balances from your teen's "minor" shopping spree.
Membership Benefits
**Safer than cash
**$0 liability guarantee means that they will reimburse 100% of any fraudulent charges made with your teen's card
**Disable a card if it's lost, and easily enable it when found
**Because it's not a credit card, there will be no effect on you or your teen's credit history
**Add funds from your Discover Card or other major credit card
**Add funds from your checking, savings account or direct deposit
**A smarter way to manage money
**Teens can access tools and tutorials that help them learn to spend smarter
**Teens can directly deposit their own paychecks
**Security meets value
**Membership is only $5 a month. See Fees
**No minimum balances, loading fees, or credit check
Thanks to Mom Central for tis information to pass on, and thank you to Discover for helping our teens have an access to learning how to spend/save wisely and more safely!

Monday, February 23, 2009

Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey = Family Traditions!

I love the circus! The animals (especially the tigers), the acrobats, the clowns, ~is non-stop action. It is such a fun place to go for great, live entertainment for the whole family. I was fortunate to attend one Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey show when I was younger. It was a fantastic show~ like no other! Since then, I have been to local circus shows. The local shows are great, but they are no comparison to The GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH!
According to the national survey that Mom Central did last year, found that 88% of Moms regarded Ringling Bros. as a "not to be missed" childhood experience, and, from the enthusiastic feedback they received, they wanted to provide us with another special opportunity to see one of the three incredible, entirely different Ringling Bros. productions with our family. The Mom Central team recently had the pleasure of checking out the newest production from Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey in Orlando, FL and they were blown away by the energy, music, dancing and really outstanding illusions found in ZING ZANG ZOOM. The show features magical Zingmaster Alex Ramon, a grand illusionist.
With the economy posing a challenge for many families, the value of a night out at Ringling Bros. is high, as the experience includes the All Access Pre-show, a fun opportunity to meet circus performers and dress up in clown costumes, which happens one hour before each performance. They have extended the following special family offers:
Offer #1: Get 4 tickets for just $44 by entering the code "MOM" at select ticketing channels**. Offer good on all performances, minimum purchase of 4 tickets required; additional tickets above 4 can be purchased at $11 each. Offer not valid on Circus Celebrity Seating, Front Row and VIP seating or combinable with other offers. Other Restrictions May Apply.
Offer #2: A select amount of Front Row and VIP seats have been reserved for you to buy before they go on sale to the public - just enter the code "MOM" when purchasing those seats. Dates and cities where families can use the national MOM discount code this spring are as follows:

Newark/East Rutherford/Uniondale/NYC
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® presents ZING ZANG ZOOM
March 5 - April 13
Offer not valid on performances from April 10 - 13 at Madison Square Garden

Washington D.C./ Fairfax, VA/ Baltimore, MD
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® proudly presents Over The Top
March 18-April 19

Philadelphia
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® presents ZING ZANG ZOOM
May 13-May 25

Phoenix
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® presents ZING ZANG ZOOM
June 24-June 28

Houston
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® proudly presents Over The Top
July 15-July 26

Anaheim/LA/Ontario
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® presents ZING ZANG ZOOM
July 8-August 2

San Francisco
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® presents ZING ZANG ZOOM
August 12-August 23

Dallas/Ft Worth
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® proudly presents Over The Top
July 29-August 16

Sacramento
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® presents ZING ZANG ZOOM
August 27-August 30

Kansas City
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® proudly presents Over The Top
September 16-September 20

To see which Ringling Bros. tour is coming to a town near you, visit Ringling.com. And visit Ticketmaster to use the 4 tickets for $44 code, MOM.
Please spread the MOM code around to friends and family near those cities. They can simply go on www.ringling.com and type in their zip code to find the shows and purchase tickets online with the code.

To help start the family traditions early, the Baby’s First Circus program allows babies to receive a free ticket voucher that can be exchanged for a free ticket to any Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey performance, anytime, anywhere. No expiration date!

Monday, February 16, 2009

Valentine's Day isn't over yet....Electrolux Love sent~and chance to win!

It is definitely the month of Love!
Electrolux has teamed up with one of America's favorite moms, Kelly Ripa, to spread a little love via a charitable social media campaign. On the Electrolux Web site, you can create and send a unique virtual cupcake to friends and family during February. I had a fun time creating a delicious looking (and sounding) cupcake, and sending it to a few friends. I made a peanut butter cake, in a lavender foil, with lavender frosting, chocolate drizzle frosting, and peanut butter cups on top. No, it isn't calorie free, but it is for a great cause! For every cupcake sent, Electrolux will donate $1 to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund (OCRF) as part of their half million dollar commitment to help support this worthy cause. Which means each virtual cupcake will go a long way. What's more, everyone who logs on and sends a cupcake will be entered for a chance to win the newest front-load Washer & Dryer (an estimated $3,600 value) from Electrolux, the appliance brand used throughout fine homes in Europe for 80 years. Talk about a great cause all around!
Kelly Ripa also designed a custom "Wear Your Heart on Your Sleeve" T-shirt, the perfect Valentine's gift for friends and family, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting OCRF (also available on electroluxappliances.com).
This contest started on February 10 and will end on the 28th of February! So, hurry over there, support a great cause, and get your chance in to win the washer and dryer from Electrolux!

Friday, February 13, 2009

You Can Make This $50 Giveaway!

There is something so special about homemade products and gifts. I remember when I was younger, my mom used to make matching night gowns for my dolly and me. It is one of my favorite memories. She also used to make me dolly clothes~ even for my barbies! Sadly, I think home made has been kind of neglected over the years. I would love to start making home made clothes for my daughter like my mom did for me.
YouCanMakeThis.com was created by a mom who wanted to provide downloadable instructions on how to make just about anything from children's boutique clothing and jewelry, to handbags, home decor and more. What makes the site unique is that these instructions are written by everyday moms who have an expertise in an area. They are written in a way that makes you feel you have a friend sitting right next to you, telling you what to do next. They all have detailed instructions and step-by-step full-color photos so even the most "craft-challenged" person can make these items for their homes and families.
In fact, if you'd like to try out some products for free, you can sign up for their FREE newsletter. After sign-up, you'll receive a link to your email inbox asking you to confirm subscription. Simply click on that link, and you'll receive all of these product instructions pictured here, plus an online video and digital scrapbooking frames.
Would you like to win a $50 bundle of even more DIY instructions? Check out YouCanMakeThis.com and come back and post something you'd like to learn how to make. You can learn how to make a Child/Adult Apron Set, Women's Reversible Wrap Skirt, The "She Loves Me, She Loves Me KNOT" Handbag, The Reversible Patchwork Bucket Hat, Easy-Fit Pants, and Boys Ties. Remember, even if you've never sewn before, the site believes that you REALLY CAN make these things!
This contest is open to all readers living in the Continental United States. To get your first entry, do what I stated above. Then, you may come back each day and enter (again) after you do the first rule, just tweet about this giveaway and leave the url in your comment AND/OR Click here to see how you can earn even more extra credits to win!! Click here to see guidelines and the official rules. Contest will end on February 24, 2009 at 11:59 PM CST. GOOD LUCK!

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Life's Building Blocks news

I did a review a few weeks ago on a super company called Life's Building Blocks (click here) that helps parents and educators teach character development in children. I think it is such a great company and such a valuable resource to us as parents. This is from the site:
"Life's Building Blocks, Inc., is a privately held company that designs, creates, markets and sells an extensive line of unique products and programs dedicated to helping parents develop morals and character in children in a fun and interactive environment. The smartly packaged products include books, board games, toys and DVD's that are distributed through proven direct marketing techniques that build upon historical data while taking advantage of the current trends in the market place. Founder, Chairman, and CEO, Vikash Sanyal, and his wife Juli, started the company in the summer of 2003 after he spent over 15 years in the golf industry during which he had a major role in launching and managing two successful putter companies. At Life's Building Blocks, Inc., he has assembled an impressive team of experts in the fields of moral and character development as well as individuals who helped create some of the most successful toys and books in the history of the toy industry."
Life's Building Blocks sends out a free newsletter packed with information and advice for parents raising children today. I think this newsletter is another great resource that we can get helpful advice from. You and I can sign up to receive this free e-newsletter just by going to Life's Building Blocks and entering your email to sign up.

Friday, January 23, 2009

Qlubb: web-based group interaction resource

Being a wife, Mom of 4 beautiful children, and trying to keep our schedules and appointments on track can be a challenge (to say the least). I know that many other mom's struggle with the "mommy brain syndrome," which is loss of memory. I know that I often times can't even remember what I ate for lunch. Many times I would love to plan a get together and it would be fun to get ideas from other people and organize the details in one place.
I have been given the opportunity to review a brand new site called Qlubb, which is a free online source that anyone can use to make group pages, create a web page, make a calendar, photo and file sharing, online RSVP's, to-do lists, and group e-mails.
From the site:
Qlubb is a web-based group utility that enables real-world groups to easily connect, share and get stuff done. Qlubb brings all aspects of group interaction to one simple and intuitive place. With event calendaring, sign-up sheets, photo sharing, member rosters, file sharing, task reminder service, and bulletin boards, Qlubb provides all the functions needed to easily and actively participate within a group.Recognizing that busy people don’t have time or patience to “figure out” another web application, Qlubb has made it a principle philosophy to keep everything SIMPLE (simple interface, simple Qlubb creation, simple task creation, simple account management, etc.). It only takes 2 clicks to create a Qlubb, an 1 click to join a Qlubb.

Qlubb is the easiest way to get your real-life groups organized and on the same page. Between our children's classrooms, scout troops, religious groups, social groups, book/wine clubs and families, we are constantly running around trying to plan and coordinate our group activities. Organizing is not a strength of mine, and Qlubb makes organizing seem much less stressful. Qlubb automates many of the tasks and significantly reduces the time it takes to organize group events, activities and members, giving you more time to enjoy your groups, families and friends. Just IMAGINE, with Qlubb, you can: • Easily organize group events and activities online• Eliminate email back-and-forth• Eliminate reminders and nags of events and responsibilities• Easily delegate tasks to members• Easily create a secure website for your group• SPEND MORE TIME ENJOYING YOUR REAL-LIFE GROUPS
I thought that Qlubb was easy to use, and I look forward to using it time to time. What's even better, this website is free to use!
Thanks Team Mom for guiding me to this helpful website to help keep my life more organized!

Saturday, January 10, 2009

Game Stop's “Sharpen the Mind, Shape the Body.”

I am so ready to start off this new year with the motivation to get healthier and losing my extra body insulation! The holidays tend to be magnets for pound acceleration, and now is the perfect time to accelerate in the weight loss!
Going to the gym is not in my budget, nor something I am able to do with 3, almost 4, kids. I do know that exercise is a crucial element to getting healthy, losing weight, and feeling more energized, though. I love the creative ways that video games have come up with ways to entice us to get motivated to exercise. I love playing on the Wii Fit and my Dance pad, because I don't really feel like I am "exercising." I enjoy fun gaming, but burn calories while doing it. Plus, I can enjoy a great work-out with family and friends.
Playing popular video games like My Fitness Coach or Dance, Dance Revolution make exercise fun, while games like Brain Age or Crosswords DS give your brain a workout. GameStop stores offer these titles and more and have associates on hand to help you find a good fit for you and your likes. GameStop stores offer some many fun games that your whole family can enjoy. This January, they are offering a "Sharpen the Mind, Shape the Body" initiative for the whole month that includes a special incentive to discover active gaming.
As a special incentive, all shoppers who spend $35 or more on designated products will receive a free 12-month trial subscription to their choice of Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, Redbook, Good Housekeeping or Esquire. So you can stop by a local store and demo a range of titles that match your interests and skill level, then you can get out of the "poundage slump" and get into shape. GameStop sells new and used games, gaming gear and movies. You can trade in your used/new games, gear and movies and exchange for other titles. I have had good buys there, and found titles that I couldn't in other local retailer stores.
Thanks MomCentral for letting me know about the "Sharpen the Mind, Shape the Body" initiative from Game Stop!

Friday, January 9, 2009

Excitebooks.com Giveaway!

Books are great for kids, and reading is so beneficial to their learning! Our family enjoys books, and really enjoy finding new books to explore. I was really excited about the new program offered from Excitebooks.com! It is very similar to netflix, but instead of movies, you can order books for your kids. Your children can get a wide variety of books that fits their age category (infant, toddler, 1-5 grade, teen books, cook books, and puzzles) and the books are all “teacher approved” books based on age/grade level. There are three different membership plans customized to fit what works for your family's desires. You can order one book ($4.99), two books ($9.99)or three books~which includes an educational activity ($14.99) a month and you can enjoy a gift your child will enjoy completely. What a fun surprise for them to see what the next book will be each month, plus, they are learning and growing!
A great faucet that Excitebooks.com has implemented into their great children's reading program is, after 12 books sent to your home, they send a pre-addressed/pre-paid envelope that you can use to send some of the books to a local library or your school library. This is a great way for you to share the gift of reading with others, and your children can participate in the giving. A receipt is also included for a tax deductible donation to your libraries.
“Excite Books is not your average book company,” explains Austin George, a commercial airline pilot, motivational speaker and founder of the online site. “We are members of the community who strive to add excitement and energy into your child’s reading activities. Through Excite Books, kids are an active participant in all phases of learning and development through responsibility, motivation and giving back to the community.”
Excite Books knows that kids who read also love to watch TV and has tapped Blake
Michael, the 11- year-old host of Cartoon Network’s Fried Dynamite as its celebrity spokes kid. Blake appears on Excitebooks.com wearing a large red exclamation point as an advocate for the excitement of reading books. He’s a passionate reader off camera who exudes the enthusiasm and excitement of reading and giving by kids to kids.
With its 100% “excitement guarantee,” this month-to-month service requires no commitments or contracts. The company is so confident your Excite Kid will love the action-packed books that it offers a money-back guarantee.
If you would like to start a monthly subscription, you can get a bonus fourth book by entering in the Personalized Message field when you submit your order the words “4th Book Free” and then you can type your personalized note that will be included with your order for your child.
Would you like to try Excitebooks "Netflix" books for kids program? You have a chance to win here! What you will win if you are the lucky winner: three books in the age category you choose, accompanied by the eight free gifts. You will be happy to win this for your children, because books are a great gift for children! This contest is open to all readers living in the Continental United States. To get your first entry, comment about a book your child especially enjoys right now. If you do not do the first required entry, you will be disqualified. You may come back each day and enter (again) after you do the first rule, just tweet about this giveaway and leave the url in your comment. Click here to see how you can earn extra credits to win, and click here to see guidelines and the official rules. Contest will end on January 19, 2009 at 11:59PM CST. GOOD LUCK!

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Feeling the need to get organized?

If you are like me, organizing is something that doesn't come very naturally, actually it may be a big struggle to be organized! I have been introduced to a great website, from MomCentral that will help keep me and my family more organized. This great site is called Cozi.com, and it is a FREE web service that helps busy families manage crazy schedules, track shopping and to do lists, organize household chores and stay in communication, all in one easy-to-use solution. Cozi not only provides a shared family calendar, but also includes customized shopping lists, quick messaging tools, mobile phone access and a family journal. With Cozi, busy moms can get shopping lists and schedules on any mobile and everyone one in the family has access to the same information. Cozi even syncs with Outlook.
In addition to the ways that moms can get their shopping lists and calendars already on any mobile phone via text message and using our toll free number, Cozi now has a mobile version especially for the iPhone and Windows Mobile phones. Families can now sign-in and access their Cozi account using their mobile web browsers. They can add and edit shopping lists and view and edit their family calendar using the mobile version of Cozi right from their iPhone. This is a new feature! You can learn more about it here: Cozi mobile
I think this new site is very helpful and beneficial to busy homes and helping us moms stay organized in our busy "forgetful" times. We have much to juggle between kid's appointments, schedules, birthdays, and trying to make sure our families have food in the house. Thanks to Cozi.com, we can gain some time by keeping our "things" organized.
You can enter a big contest! From December 31st, 2008 through February 4th, 2009, everyone who signs up and tries Cozi will be entered to win a two-day home organization makeover with professional organizer, and incoming NAPO President (National Association of Professional Organizers), Laura Leist. In Laura's two-day visit, she will makeover either the kitchen or home office in one lucky winners' home; a service with a retail value of $5,000. Now that is what I am calling an excellent contest!