Champagne Shrimp and Angel Hair Recipe

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Shrimps certainly lends an elegance to a holiday table and its elegance is out-shined only by its nutritional value, an added bonus when other holiday favorites pack on the pounds. A serving size of three ounces of shrimp delivers nearly 20 grams of protein and a healthy dose of B vitamins, iron, and omega-3s, with only 84 calories and less than one gram of fat (when cooked plain).

This delightful champagne shrimp recipe (compliments of the Shrimp Council,) will be a wonderful, tasty way to celebrate the new year.

Champagne Shrimp and Angel Hair

Ingredients

• 1 lb of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz of angel hair pasta
• 2 cups of your choice of Champagne
• 1 cup of fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons of minced shallots
• 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ teaspoon of salt


Instructions

Cook the pasta as directed; drain afterwards and coat with a tablespoon of olive oil. White the pasta is cooking, heat the other tablespoon of extra virgin oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Cook the mushrooms in the olive oil until tender; then remove and set aside. Combine the shrimp, Champagne and salt in the pan, and cook over high heat. When the liquid starts to boil, remove the shrimp and add the shallots. Boil for 8 minutes; until reduced to about half a cup. Stir in 3/4 of the cream and boil for an additional 2 minutes. Add the shrimp and the mushrooms to sauce, heating through. Toss the hot, cooked pasta with the remaining 1/4 cup of cream and the freshly chopped parsley. Spoon the shrimp with sauce over the pasta and serve.Number of Servings: 2

5 Grocery Staples for Youth & Vitality

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It’s the question we ask ourselves almost every day: What’s for dinner?

Entwined in this daily dialogue is wondering whether we’ll need to dash into the grocery store on the way home from work. The next time we make one of those supermarket pit stops, Dr. Eudene Harry, author of “Live Younger in 8 Simple Steps,” (www.LivingHealthyLookingYounger.com), would like us to veer in a new direction.

“When people shop on the go, they tend to gravitate toward old standbys and foods they can multipurpose with – usually not the most nutritious choices possible. But by substituting a few items on your list, you can not only look and feel more youthful, you’ll boost your resistance to certain cancers and other illnesses.”

Some of the most nutrition-packed foods not only taste great, they’re readily available at the grocery store and easy to prepare, Harry says.

“The more you eat, the more you’ll crave them.”

Here are five food combos for shoppers with healthy eating on their minds:

• Tomato, garlic, chicken and almonds: Tomatoes contain one of the world’s most concentrated sources of cancer-fighting lycopene, which is best absorbed from tomatoes that are cooked. Garlic has been used for centuries for various health purposes and is a known free-radical destroyer. Nuts help to lose weight, maintain healthy blood pressure and support moods; almond crumbs are a great substitute for bread crumbs on chicken. Pair these goodies with whole wheat couscous for a full dinner.

• Pomegranate-Balsamic tempeh: With its high protein, fiber and isoflavones content, and meaty texture, tempeh is heavily utilized by vegetarians. It’s made from soybeans processed in a manner similar to cheese making. Like tofu, tempeh takes on the flavors with which it is cooked or marinated, including zesty-tangy balsamic vinegar – perfect for accentuating salads.

• Mashed cauliflower gone Greek: Not only does the “original” yogurt have a thicker texture and richer taste, it’s also denser in lactobacilli, the healthy bacteria that may delay the onset of cancer. And yogurt is low in fat and high in protein, which is essential for many body functions, including building and repairing muscle tissue, organs, bones and connective tissue. Rather than add fatty, cholesterol-filled butter and sour cream to starchy potatoes that stick to your ribs, why not pair two healthy options with mashed cauliflower with Greek yogurt and fresh black pepper for simple goodness?

• Sushi – wild salmon, minced cucumbers, shredded carrots, kelp, sesame seeds and rice: A sushi roll is much more filling and satisfying than a non-sushi eater would think. Many grocery chains offer ready-made rolls, but they are also fairly easy to make. A bamboo roller is a great start; place a sheet of nutrient-dense kelp as the first thing on the roller, and add, lengthwise, desired ingredients. Your first try is not likely to be perfect, but the tasty and healthy ingredients will be there.

• Fruit salad for dessert: Bring together chopped apples, strawberries, cantaloupe, watermelon and pineapple with blueberries and grapes for a sweet and juicy post-dinner palate-cleanser. Lemon juice prevents fruits from bruising. If that’s not enough, combine the salad with Greek yogurt – perhaps blended with vanilla or almond extract – and fiber-filled granola for a parfait.

About Eudene Harry, M.D.

Dr. Eudene Harry holds a bachelor’s in biology from New York University and completed both her medical degree and residency training at Thomas Jefferson University. Currently the medical director for the integrative and holistic Oasis Wellness and Rejuvenation Center, she has practiced medicine for nearly 20 years, is board certified in both emergency and holistic medicine, and for more than a decade practiced emergency medicine as an attending physician in Level II trauma centers. In 2005 she opened Oasis for Optimal Health, a private practice focused on integrative, holistic wellness and empowering and educating the patient.

What’s the Current State of Your Teeth Cleanliness? #PowerUp #OralBSponsored

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Every year, I renew my resolve to find new ways to improve my health and to continue the healthy habits I've already developed.  This year, when it comes to tooth care, I'll be doing both.

Thanks to my mother's influence, I have good oral care habits, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing regularly to ensure my teeth are healthy and cavity-free.  But even so, I find during check-ups that I have more plaque build-up than I'd care to have.  I also worry about maintaining my oral health throughout my lifetime as aging and wear can certainly have adverse affects.

So when I had the opportunity to switch from my standard battery-powered toothbrush to the Oral-B® Professional™ Precision 5000, I did the oral care happy dance of joy... which turned into a full-blown mega-happy-dance celebration after a week of using and realizing the tremendous benefits of this system!

First and perhaps most important, my teeth are cleaner.  You know that lovely just cleaned smooth feeling you get after your six-month checkup and cleaning at the dentist?  That's the feeling I have every day now after I use my Oral-B Professional Precision 5000.

The brushing technology, which comes from the oscillating, rotating and pulsating movements, is a lot gentler on my teeth than the less expensive battery-powered brushes that have rely more on vibration for cleaning motion.  There is a gentle setting on the Oral-B Professional Precision 5000, but I didn't find the need to use it as the normal setting was far gentler than the brushes I've been using.  There's also a deep clean setting and a massage setting for gums (nice bonuses!)


To help encourage good brushing habits, the system comes with a timer that is automatically set to the brush.  You can set the timer to remind you to brush twice daily at specific times and you can use it while brushing to ensure you are ideally brushing for a two minute time period.  I love the setting that times each quadrant of your mouth (upper left, lower left, etc.) for 30-second intervals, than signals when to change throughout the two minute time period.  A little "smiley face" on the timer also lets me know I'm finished, which is a fun, upbeat way to end my tooth care session.


I've also noticed my teeth are whiter as any stains I may have from coffee or tea are easily removed.  And I love that the brush system comes with a travel case so that I don't have to do without amazing oral care when on-the-go.

I'm curious to see how my next check-up will go, but I'm betting already that I will have less plaque build-up to deal with. The Oral-B Professional Precision 5000 delivers an amazing clean- A brilliant beginning to my new year! 

If your want to include oral health care improvement in your resolutions, visit OralB.com for more information. You can also find updates and coupon/rebate information at Twitter http://www.oralb.com and Facebook http://www.facebook.com/oralb

Disclosure: I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour by Modern Mom on behalf of Oral-B and received a product sample to facilitate my review. 

What To Do With All The Money You Saved By Spending Less This Christmas

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You did it! You stuck to your guns and your budget. Give yourself an big "air" high five!

In spite of shiny temptations and marketing tricks, you did Christmas on the cheap and saved yourself a ton of money. Congratulations!

Now comes the inevitable question... what do you do with all the money you saved?

If you already have a plan, bravo!  Read no further and go back to browsing through Rural Mom for more ideas... but if you need some inspiration or a few ideas for putting your savings to good use, consider the following:

If you have credit card or other debt, obviously pay that off first.

If you live paycheck to paycheck, put it in a savings account for emergencies. Once those needs have been met, the possibilities for the extra money are exciting.

You could splurge on a family trip to Disney. Now, this doesn’t mean you can waste the money and pay full price, though... you know that's not the frugal living way!

Plan your trip so you can take advantage of off-season prices. Many hotels and airlines charge a premium for travel during school breaks and colder months. Consider bringing non-perishable breakfast bars and snacks to save money on food. Search the internet; there is bound to be a blog dedicated to your vacation site with tons of information on where to get specials. You can also fund a plethora of websites offering coupons and deals on everything from car rentals and airfare to hotels and dinner.

You could be altruistic and donate the money. Non-profit organizations always need funds, especially in this economy. Toys For Tots is a charity run by the Marines and focused on giving new toys to children who wouldn’t otherwise have anything to open on Christmas morning. Your local Humane Society is another good choice. If you feel strongly, you can even use your thrifty savings to equip the Cruelty Investigation unit with much needed cameras, video equipment and first aid kits.

Instead of donating the money directly to a charity right away, you can use it as seed money. For example, challenge everyone at your place of employment, school or church to donate to a specific cause and agree to match them, dollar for dollar, up to the amount of your savings.

Lastly, you could invest the money. Your IRA or mutual fund can always use a boost. If you have children or grandchildren, you can set the money aside in a number of education savings plans, like a 529 Plan. You can put the money in traditional savings account, buy bonds or even start a CD ladder. The choices are nearly limitless; just check with your CPA on any potential tax issues.

Your goal of achieving a debt-free Christmas was a success; just make sure the money goes to good use and you'll feel rewarded again!

Whether you buy something for yourself or invest in the future, enjoy your reward and know that Christmas really can be done, and done well, on the cheap.

New Year, New Ideas - Find and Participate in Craft Swaps #DIY

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Got Extra Craft Supplies?  Swap 'Em Out!

Craft swaps are a fun way to connect with your fellow crafters. They can also help you find a home for crafts that you have created but do not use, and to add craft items made by others to your collection. But craft swaps are not that easy to find in some areas.

Finding Swaps

Craft swap groups that are looking for new members often place ads in the paper. Advertising rates are usually cheaper in smaller trading post publications, so they are a good place to look as well. Some groups even post flyers in grocery stores, laundromats and other public places, so keep your eyes open for them.

The Internet has made finding craft swaps substantially easier. Lots of local craft swap groups have created online presences, either with their own websites or through groups on sites like Facebook, Yahoo Groups and Meetup. You can often find them by doing a Google search for the term "craft swap," either preceded or followed by your city and state. Or if you have a favorite social networking site, you can search it for craft swap groups in your area.

You can also find craft swaps online that are not limited to a geographical area. Instead of exchanging items in person, members mail them to one another. Most stick to a certain country or region to reduce shipping costs, but if you're interested in international crafts and don't mind the added cost, you may be able to find one that swaps between two countries or worldwide.


Participating in Swaps

Different swaps have different rules, so it's important to learn them before participating. In general, swaps fall into two categories: swaps in which members swap amongst themselves, choosing what they wish to swap for, and swaps in which all items are distributed by random drawing.

In groups where members swap amongst themselves, all items are put on display, either at an event or on a website. You can then browse what's available and try to make deals with other crafters. If you can't make a deal on an item you want with a direct swap, a three-way swap might work out to your advantage. You give your item to one person, she gives her item to another, and that person gives her item to you.

Random swaps are less predictable, but they're also lots of fun. Each item is usually assigned a number, and either the participants draw their own numbers or the organizers hold a drawing. In the case of an online swap, the participants may not know what they're getting until it arrives in the mail.

When participating in online swaps, it's important to ship your items promptly. Most groups have a feedback system, and if you take too long or fail to ship your items, you could be banned from the group. But if you fail to receive your item, you can leave feedback stating that as well. Many groups also have "swap angels," which are crafters who send items to those who have sent things out but received nothing in return.

Participating in a craft swap has lots of benefits. You can find other crafters to share ideas and patterns with, get rid of crafts you don't need, and get new things to use yourself or give as gifts. Whether you swap in person or online, you're sure to make new friends and learn new things.

Guest Post - Fairy Tales and Fantasy Offer Modern Happy Endings

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The moral aspect of fairy tales may be lost on modern readers but the mystery, magic, and wonder are not. Fairy Fairy tale characters, creatures, and story elements are finding their way into modern fiction at an increasing rate. This trend is especially noticeable in young adult fiction, but can also be seen in books for a more mature audience.

Common Uses of Fairy Tale Elements

Some novels are a new twist on an old story. For example, Enchantment, by Orson Card, tells the story of Sleeping Beauty from the perspective of the hero. The story is still set in days of old, but offers a completely new point of view, with its own brand of humor. Other authors elect to put a very modern spin on a traditional tale. Francesca Lia Block's The Rose and The Beast: Fairy Tales Retold puts the basic plot of old tales into the modern landscape, giving them a moral that relates to life today. These stories contain all the elements one would expect from a fairy tale including a moral lesson, a lady in distress, her rescuer, magical spells and mythical creatures.

Also currently popular are novels that exploit character types for fantasy lore, but create a story that is completely unique. For example, Unenchanted and Fairest, two novels by Chandra Hahn, follow the antics of Wilhimina Grimm, the great granddaughter of the brother's Grimm. She fights fairy tale creatures and survives her own, uniquely modern, version of fairy tales in a set of novels that follow a plot design all their own. Other novels borrow smaller fantasy elements, like the existence of mythical creatures only. Stories like Harry Potter, the Twilight Series, and the Torn trilogy all steal fantasy elements from tradition but create a story that is both unique and new.

Why Modern Fairy Tales are Popular

There are a variety of reasons people are turning to stories which include fairy tale and fantasy elements. First, there is something comforting and childlike in the familiarity of these stories. We like knowing that there is a happy ever after waiting for characters, we like the surprise that comes with magic. We are forever endeared to their basic traditional elements.

We like to spot the story. Like a mystery reader on the hunt for clues, readers of fiction based on fantasy and fairy tales, enjoy searching for borrowed elements. They identify monsters from Grimm, animals from Aesop, and heros from Anderson without skipping a beat. They are emotionally invested in characters and outcomes from the beginning because the reader aligns them with those characters who have gone before.

Finally, readers also love the twist. We are set up with certain expectations. When we realize that characters have been borrowed from a specific tale, we expect it to go a certain way. Authors use these expectations to make us anticipate the story, but then twist it so we are caught by surprise. It is this twist, the feeling of surprise when things don't go as planned, that keeps us returning again and again.

Author

Melissa Barton has a bachlors degree in English Education, and a Master's in composition and rhetoric. In her spare time, Melissa loves contributing to college resource sites, such as DegreeJungle.com. She has spent much of her career both as a student and as a writer studying the trends in young adult fiction, and modern writing styles.

Book Review: The Good Life for Less: Giving Your Family Great Meals, Good Times, and a Happy Home on a Budget

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     When Amy Clark and her husband found themselves in unexpected financial trouble right before the birth of their first child, they quickly learned the importance of smart budgeting and making a little money go a long way. In this book, Amy offers up a clever lifestyle plan that is long on creativity and short on cost to help you achieve a peaceful, thrifty home and a loving, happy family:

• Set a reasonable budget and stick to it
• Save half price or more on nearly everything
• Cook delicious, frugal meals for any size family, and save money by making your own easy salad dressing, barbecue sauce, and homemade mixes
• Manage an organized, clean house without spending valuable time and money
• Create traditions and family occasions kids will remember forever—without breaking the bank

You’ll be inspired by a wealth of smart and creative ideas for families living on a budget and a guide for everyone who finds themselves challenged to juggle all the roles that come with parenting. Amy gives you the tools, the guidance, and the inspiration you need to run your own household with wisdom, wit, love, and style.      Where to to Buy   Get Your Copy of the Good Life for Less on Amazon for only $10.98 for the paperback or $9.99 for the e-book.   Our Thoughts   The very first thing I liked about this book, was the look. Horribly, I do judge a book by it's cover, and this cover already had me sold and excited to read it. This book covers everything from budgets, to family time, crafts, meals, and holidays.
The budgeting and food budget areas weren't really applicable to my family, as I already do a budget and we eat differently, but the crafts, decorating and gifting ideas were very useful. I always struggle with finding new ways to celebrate the holidays in a fun manner. I'm used to big families and doing what I did growing up, but having moved, I have to create traditions just for my own two little girls and husband.
We're past Thanksgiving already, but I can't wait for next year to try out the Thanksgiving tree centerpiece. I'm also always changing up the decor in my home, so the interchangeable pictures on a focal frame is excellent for me! There are many more ideas I have bookmarked but I don't want to give away all of her secrets, you'll just have to read for yourself!
A great read, a lot of great ideas and it was very fun to read!   Reviewed by Jackie   ***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way.***

The Wiggles Celenbration Review & Giveaway

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The world’s premier children’s entertainers, The Wiggles, are launching a brand new DVD, “The Wiggles Celebration” through NCircle Entertainment on New Year’s Day 2013. This new live concert movie is going to be the final release with all the Original Wiggles, including Murray Cook, Jeff Fatt and Greg Page who will be retiring at the end of 2012 to take on behind the scenes roles in content development and songwriting. The three new Wiggles- Simon Pryce, Lachlan Gillespie, and the first ever female Wiggle, Emma Watkins, will join Blue Wiggle Anthony Field as they don the band’s signature Red, Purple and Yellow jerseys.
"The Wiggles Celebration" will bring all of the fun and excitement of a live Wiggles show into the homes of families across the country. The DVD will also introduce fans to the new Wiggles Simon, Lachlan and Emma as they celebrate the last 21 years that Anthony, Greg, Murray and Jeff entertained families across the globe.
Where to Buy
The Wiggles Celebration is available now in stores nationwide. You can also get a copy online at Amazon for only $11.38.

Our Thoughts

The Wiggles have been a staple of my household for twelve years now. I have watched them go from Wiggle World to the Wiggles Studio. I've watched Henry the Octopus and Dorothy the Dinosaur evolve. All four of my children have loved the Wiggles and we know all their songs by heart. The Wiggles Celebration is a wonderful culmination of their time on the stage and on the small screen. It has all the best songs and dances and all our favorite characters came back for one last hooray. It was a wonderful surprise to see Gregg back with the team for this fabulous farewell concert filled with music, laughter, and fun. There was even an introduction to the new Wiggles. I have to admit, I am sort of sad to see the original Wiggles go, but I'm glad my  kids have this DVD for one last look at the original cast who will always have a place in our hearts. 

One lucky winner is going to receive a box of grilled cheese sandwiches to try for themselvs. To enter, just fill in the Rafflecopter form below. This giveaway will end on 1/22/13. The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. Thanks again to NCircle Entertainment for offering this fantastic prize.

a Rafflecopter giveaway


***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way.  Please note that I  am not responsible for the delivery of this prize and can not be held accountable if, for any reason, is it not received. Furthermore, I am in no way liable for any injuries that may result from the use or misuse of this product. ***

Baby Spa - All Natural Skin Care for Babies and Kids

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      I  love finding new all natural products for my family. I recently came across a great little company called Baby Spa.  Their skin care products are made with only natural ingredients and are free from phthalates and parapens. They were nice enough to send me a few of their products to try out. One of them is a bottle of their moisturizing body lotion. I have really enjoyed using it for my children.  It  leaves her skin feeling rose-petal soft.  The lotion is designed for children four and older, and is great for even sensitive skin. It goes on smooth and has no greasy residue. It comes in a nice squeeze bottle for easy access. The light scent is perfect for boys or girls and it  works well enough that I could use it on my own skin. Plus its made with only all natural ingredients.       The second item we got to try out was the Soothing Face Cream. This item is a must have for the winter, especially if you spend a lot of time outside. My son has always had issues with his cheeks getting chaffed in the winter wind. I've spent years trying to find a product that soothed this chapping, but until now, nothing has worked. The Soothing Face Cream was a life saver. The irritation on his cheeks cleared up after just a few uses. Not only does it heal the chapping, it prevents it if you use it beforehand. It also leaves skin soft and smooth. I will definitely be using this product from now on.          These are only a few examples of the products you can find at Baby Spa. In addition to the products I reviewed, they also also offer body washes, diaper creams,  massage oils, gift sets and more. All of their products are paraben free, and of course they are not tested on animals.  If you are thinking about making a purchase, now would be a great time. They are currently offering 20% off and free shipping on all their gift sets. This is a great way to try out several products for one low price.  To keep up with future promotions, be sure to follow them on face book or twitter. We all want the best for our children. Give them clean and healthy skin with the all natural products available at Baby Spa.
  ***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way.***

How I Straighten My Hair

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I can't recall if I did a blog post going into detail on my straightening method...so here goes!
I start with freshly shampooed hair. You want to use a shampoo because the cleaner your hair, the better your results will be. Piling silicones on top of dirty hair will give you dull, lifeless straight hair.
After shampooing I always use a moisturizing deep conditioner. Your curls and kinks should be in tip top shaoe for the straightening process.
I let my hair air-dry until it's only slightly damp and then I apply my heat protectant. I use Aveda Smooth Infusion glossing straightener.



Basically you want to get your hair as straight as you can doing the blow drying process.
This reduces the need for a super high heat setting while flat ironing.
I believe it's best to use a flat iron with adjustable temperature settings.
I find that certain sections of my hair are fine and can't take the high heat needed for my thicker sections.
When you flat iron I recommend sections of 1 inch or less. I use the comb chase method where I run a comb down my hair as I flat iron. This ensures the sections get as straight as possible with heat being evenly distributed.
You should only need to do 1 or 2 passes down the hair with the iron. Nothing more.



Also if the hair is hot to the touch, the heat setting is too high for your heat protectant putting you at risk for heat damage.
Once I'm done straightening...I'm done.



I preserve my hair by wrapping it at night or pulling it back into a ponytail.
I have a tutorial on how I acheive a bouncy loose curl look.
Be sure to check it out!

Nickelodeon LET’S LEARN: 123s and LET’S LEARN: ABCs Coming to DVD January 15, 2013

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LEARN ABOUT NUMBERS AND LETTERS WITH EVERYONE’S NICKELODEON FAVORITES!
Get to know the educational values of Nickelodeon programming with two new DVDs packing two hours of edu-tainment each.  Part of an all-new Let’s Learn line of DVDs, Let’s Learn: 123s and Let’s Learn: ABCs feature episodes from Nickelodeon’s hit preschool series Team Umizoomi, Dora the Explorer, Blue’s Clues and more! Kids will have a great time while learning with their favorite Nickelodeon friends; and as an added bonus included inside each release, there’s a corresponding 123 or ABC worksheet to keep kids learning more about numbers and the alphabet!  Created by Nickelodeon Home Entertainment, and distributed by Paramount Home Media Distribution, Let’s Learn: 123s and Let’s Learn: ABCs are available on DVD on January 15, 2013, for the suggested retail price of $14.99 each. 
LET’S LEARN: 123s Kids can count on Nick Jr. friends to make learning math as easy as 1, 2, 3 in these five play dates! Count comets with Team Umizoomi, journey through school with Dora, figure out Blue’s favorite number, plus more!
Team Umizoomi: Counting Comet When a friendly comet crashes to Earth, the only thing that can bring him home is the Umi City Rocket Ship. Team Umizoomi must help their new friend reach the launch pad before the rocket blasts off. 
Team Umizoomi: Super Soap! While working on an art project, the Team's friend Silly Bear ends up covered in glue and everything he touches sticks to him! Team Umizoomi must deliver the one thing that can help Silly Bear out of this sticky situation - Super Soap. 
Dora the Explorer: Pepe’s School Day Adventure Dora and Pepe the Pig explore music class, story time and math class while at school. 
Blue’s Clues: Numbers Everywhere! We help out to find missing numbers by using counting to figure out where they're hiding. We also skiddoo into a book filled with numbers. There, we help out a couple of different numbers to tell a story and learn addition and subtraction in the process. 
Go, Diego, Go!: Three Little Condors Diego and Alicia have been nursing three baby condors, but now it is time for them to get their own home! The condors are thrilled that they are being adopted, and they get a new mommy and daddy. But there is a problem, condors cannot fly at night. So the condors and Diego must hurry and get them home before nightfall. 
Wonder Pets: Save the Old White Mouse (A/B) The wonder pets must save the old white mouse that is stuck in a cuckoo clock in Linny's grandmother nursing home. 
Let’s Learn: 123s Fast Facts: Street Date: January 15, 2013 Catalogue: 880444 DVD SRP: $14.99 Running Time: 138 Minutes

LET’S LEARN: ABCs A is for “awesome” in these five ABC play dates from Nick Jr.! Kids learn about letters and reading as they visit libraries with Team Umizoomi and Diego, help Dora save ABC animals, and jump into classic stories with Blue’s Clues and the Wonder Pets!
Team Umizoomi: To The Library A girl calls for Team Umizoomi to get a book from the library called "Good night Polka-Dot Pirate" as it is up to the team to check the book out and take it to the girl. 
Dora The Explorer: ABC Animals Dora and Boots are with the Giant ABC Book. When the book opened, the Armadillo came out asking for help. According to Armadillo, all of his animal friends inside the Giant ABC Book are missing and now he is all alone. Dora and Boots helps Armadillo find all of his animal friends by going through The Elevator at E, through The Slippery Slide at S and to Z. 
Blue’s Clues: Blue’s ABC’s  By reading off a grocery list, we help Mr. Salt and Mr. Pepper do their grocery shopping in order to feed a hungry Paprika. Later, we skidoo into a storybook and determine the correct order of words to make complete sentences through visual and contextual clues.  
Go, Diego, Go!: Linda the Librarian Alicia is opening a new library and it's up to Linda the Llama and Diego to bring her the new books.  
Ni Hao, Kai-Lan: Kai-Lan’s Big Play Kai-Lan and her friends are putting on a play based on the Chinese folktale about the Monkey King. When Rintoo gets the part that Hoho wanted, Hoho quits the play and it's up to the viewer to help Kai-Lan figure out what to do.
Wonder Pets: Save Humpty Dumpty The Wonder Pets save Humpty Dumpty in a pop-up book. 
Wonder Pets: Save the Itsy Bitsy Spider The Wonder Pets go under the ground to visit Ollie. Then the Wonder Pets help the distraught spider that keeps being flushed down the waterspout in a painting.  
Let’s Learn: ABCs Fast Facts: Street Date: January 15, 2013 Catalogue: 880454 DVD SRP: $14.99 Running Time: 137 Minutes      
***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way. ***

Book Spotlight - Mark of the Witch by Jessica Gibson

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Magic flows through Jillian Proctor's veins as surely as blood, but so far her life outside Boston has been peaceful. William Morgan blows into Jilly's life like a hurricane, unleashing her magic and sending her out of control. Unknowingly, William brings an enemy who only wants to posses the power of the witch. Jilly must learn to harness her magic before she loses it - and everything in her life is destroyed.


 Where to Buy
  You can  get your copy of Mark of the Witch on Amazon for only $.99.




About the Author

 First and foremost, I'm a wife to an amazing man, and mother to a 2 year old little boy. I love to read when I can find the time, my Kindle is my best friend. I've read tons and tons of books. One of my favorite authors is Diana Gabaldon, her Outlander series is absolutely amazing. I also really enjoy Charlaine Harris' True Blood series. I'll read anything supernatural, I've blown through most of the good YA series' that are out there. I think my love of reading really helped me branch out into writing.

Connect With Jessica


email: gibson.jessicaj@gmail.com Website: www.releasedaydiva.weebly.com Blog: www.thisauthorslife.blogspot.com Book Blog : www.bookonthebrightside.blogspot.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jessica-Gibson/120212814747940 Twiter: jessicajgibson
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/jessicajgibson

Book Review: Not Your Mother’s Book . . . On Dogs

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Watch out! The dogs are loose and in rare form in this very funny and endearing anthology about our canine friends. We are dog people. While some may think we’re a bit off our rockers—especially them cat people—we don’t give a hoot. Our fur kids are our babies, our children. They are our trusted companions. They ask for nothing in return. They shower us with their loyalty and love. Inside, you’ll read puppy-dog antics and silly-canine adventures, with a surprise or two thrown in, all of which will make you very happy the dogs are running free on the pages of this wonderful book. Not Your Mother’s Book (NYMB) is a new anthology for a new century. Series creators Dahlynn and Ken McKowen spent 10 years developing titles for the world’s bestselling anthology series prior to launching NYMB. But their series is very different; NYMB books are contemporary, fun and even daring! No sad, sappy or death and dying stories—EVER!


Let me start this with, “I’m a dog person.”  That’s right, my dogs are my kids. They live in my house, get comfy on my furniture, and take vacations with us.  My husband and I both grew up having dogs, and we have had dogs together for 16 years.  I can’t imagine life without having at least one.  While we usually have two dogs (our city’s limit for a single family dwelling), currently we have our sweet, goofy, and incredibly lazy 4 yr old Rottweiler, Lola.  My husband’s been eyeing rescues and breeders alike and dropping hints for a couple years now; I’m sure before too long we’ll have second dog again.  Earlier this year I thought we just might as we fostered a puppy for a few days.  From strays to family members’ dogs to our own dogs, somehow dogs find us when they need help.  I have a special relationship with dogs.  The dogs that normally dislike the majority of the human race befriend me.  And a very select few, can communicate with me on a level far beyond the norm.  As you can imagine, I have lots of dog stories.  LOTS.
Where to Buy
You can find  Not Your Mother’s Book . . . On Dogs in stores nationwide. Both ebook and print versions are also available online at Amazon.

Our Thoughts
So, I was excited about the opportunity to review “Not Your Mother’s Book . . . On Dogs, A Collection of Stories from People Like You”, created by Dahlynn McKowen, Ken McKowen, and Kathleene Baker.  It promises to be funny and endearing with silly canine adventures and puppy antics, with writers from all over the world submitting stories.  Fifty seven stories made the final cut.  I love dogs and dog stories, and was excited to get started.
After having read it, all I can say is, I REALLY wanted to love this book.  But I just  . . . don’t.  I ask the writers, with so many stories “from around the world” being submitted . . . these were the fifty seven that were selected for the final cut?  Really? Some of the contributors aren’t dog owners, and some of those particular stories are neither funny nor endearing.  The story that involved the military and the St. Bernard was downright offensive to me.  A lot of the stories are about the “spoiled rotten princess from hell” kind of dogs.  As a responsible dog owner, I do not find that type of dog behavior funny in the least.  But don’t get me wrong, there were plenty of wonderful stories in there as well, from the Grandma who was terrified of dogs to find one that protected her, to the stories of rescue dogs.
While I didn’t enjoy this book as much as I wanted to, you might
 Reviewed by Anne
 
***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way. ***

Thomas & Friends®: Muddy Matters DVD Giveaway

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PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

All aboard for action-packed messy adventures with preschool favorite Thomas the Tank Engine^® and his engine friends in Thomas & Friends^®: Muddy Matters arriving on DVD, Digital Download and On Demand January 15, 2013 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment.  Featuring five action-packed episodes plus three bonus features, the Thomas & Friends: Muddy Matters DVD will be available for the suggested retail price of $14.98. The engines get down and dirty – in a good way – as they accomplish their daily tasks around the Island of Sodor with cooperation, friendship and fun!
Now offering more adventures and value, Thomas & Friends DVDs include even more episodes than before for the same price!                                                                                                           

DVD SYNOPSIS

Through mud, garbage and muck, Thomas and his engine friends show that being Really Useful can be a dirty job! See James turn into the Really Muddy Engine and Thomas get showered with garbage. Watch Peter Sam make a big mess trying to keep things on track as Thomas creates chaos with the crows and much, much more. Join Thomas and the Steam Team as they make the best of the mess in these exciting muddy and mucky adventures!
Episodes include: ·         “Muddy Matters” ·         “Thomas and the Garbage Train” ·         “Don’t Bother Victor” ·         “Whiff’s Wish” ·         “Thomas Toots the Crows”
DVD BONUS FEATURES ·         Go Go Thomas! Karaoke Music Video ·         Guess Who? Puzzles ·         Muddy Sheep Roundup Game 
DIGITAL BONUS FEATURES ·         Bonus Episode “Buzzy Bees”

ABOUT THOMAS & FRIENDS^™

Thomas the Tank Engine™ was created by a father for his son over 65 years ago and today is enjoyed by families in more than 185 territories and in 30 languages.  The #1 blue engine and his friends invite children to enter a world of imagination through the tracks of a train and the words of a story. Children embark on adventures with their engine friends while experiencing timeless life lessons of discovery, friendship and cooperation. 
For the 11^th consecutive year, Thomas & Friends^® was the number one license in the preschool toys category in the United States, according to The NPD Group, Inc. Thomas & Friends also holds the number one spot for overall top preschool property in the US, and it was a top 10 property in the entire toy industry for 2011.  The unrivaled popularity of the global brand continues with Thomas ranking as the top toy property in the UK for the past 12 years and also holds the number one preschool toy license in the UK, Germany and Australia. 

PROGRAM INFORMATION

Title Copyright: © 2013 HIT Entertainment Limited. Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends^™ Based on The Railway Series by The Reverend W Awdry.  Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends and Thomas & Friends are trademarks of Gullane (Thomas) Limited.  Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends and Design is Reg. U.S. Pat. & Tm. Off. 
  

One lucky winner is going to receive aThomas & Friends^®: Muddy Matters DVD. To enter, just fill in the Rafflecopter form below. This giveaway will end on 1/20/13. If you have already won this title on another blog, you are not eligible to enter or win. Open to the US only. The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. Thanks again to Lion's Gate for offering this fantastic prize.

a Rafflecopter giveaway



***Please note that I received no form of monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sample of the product to try in order to write a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own and were not influenced in any way.  Please note that I  am not responsible for the delivery of this prize and can not be held accountable if, for any reason, is it not received. Furthermore, I am in no way liable for any injuries that may result from the use or misuse of this product. ***   

Tophatter $200 Giveaway

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A New Year, A New Way to Shop! Event

Giving you a chance to win $200 in TopHatter Credits via Paypal! Sponsored by TopHatter & Hosted by Mom Powered Media Tophatter is a fast paced, fun-filled virtual auction house. It also happens to be the world's most entertaining live marketplace. Buyers and sellers can connect on a live chat where questions can be answered immediately and bids can be watched in real-time. Tophatter conducts live online auctions everyday in a wide variety of categories. There is always something new and exciting happening 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at TopHatter. TopHatter is - iPads to Coach handbags - Craft Supplies to Jewelry - Sweet Treats to Handcrafted Goods - and so much more! What will you be bidding on today at TopHatter?

One winner will receive $200 {via Paypal}!

Giveaway ends January 30th at 11:59pm, open to worldwide, ages 18+. To enter please use the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck. Special thank you to our co-hosts: Bay Area Mommy, A Medic's World, Capri's Coupons, My Vegan Gluten-Free Life, Coupon Queen of Texas, One Proud Momma, Pinoy Recipe and Secret Southern Couture. a Rafflecopter giveaway
Disclosure: I received no compensation for this publication. My opinions are my own and may differ from those of your own. New Age Mama  is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment.