This is an unsolicited review. I purchased this product, with no incentives or discounts, and want to share my opinions of this product with my readers.
My main reason for purchasing this particular microscope is the fact that it is digital. This enables the user to view the magnified object on their computer screen, as well as record a video, or just a snapshot. These features make it possible for the kids and I to view a magnified object as a group and also save the images for reviewing later. I teach my children at home.
Upon unpacking this microscope, I was instantly impressed with the quality. The stand is weighted which reduces the chance of toppling. Several accessories (Reflector Tube, Rubber Sleeve, Curette, and Plastic Sleeves) were included. The USB cable is extra long.
Installing the software from the included CD was a breeze and I had the microscope up and running in less than five minutes.The kids gathered by my desk and there were lots of "oohs" and "aahs" as they each gave it a try. I must admit, everyone's favorite feature, including myself, is the ability to look into their own ear. LOL I know we are going to be using this for microscope quite often.
Also, with its ease of use and portability, it will come in handy for other things around the farm. Since it can be used like a regular camera, it can be snaked down into vents and cracks in walls etc... to find lost screws, check for varmits, and read hart to reach part numbers.
At 119.00, it was a bit of an investment, but I feel certain that it is a good one. I purchased ours from Amazon.com.
Product Features
Sensor: 2.0M pixels CMOS sensor. Still Image Resolution:
1600X1200 pixels (Format: BMP). Video Resolution: 1600x1200 pixels
(Format: AVI, Frame Rate: 20FPS at VGA).
Focal Distance: 5mm - infinity (when Focal distance is infinity,
the microscope cannot magnify, but can be used as a webcam).
Magnification: 10X-200X (adjustable). Illumination: 6 white LED lights
built-in. PC Interface: USB 2.0. USB Cable Length: 165cm. Endoscope Tube
Diameter: 8.2mm. Endoscope Tube Length: 160mm. Reflector Tube
Illumination: 6 white LED lights built-in. PC Interface: USB
2.0. USB Cable Length: 165cm. Endoscope Tube Diameter: 8.2mm. Endoscope
Tube Length: 160mm. Reflector Tube Diameter: 9.7mm.
Set of Accessories (Reflector Tube, Rubber Sleeve, Curette, and
Plastic Sleeves): can be attached to the endoscope for different
inspection purposes.
Compatibility: Windows 7(32 or 64 bit)/Vista/XP. Manufacturer's Warranty: 1 year.
Recently, I was given a chance to review The Wild Thornberrys: Season One on DVD. The kids and I spent a rainy day, enjoying the entire 4-DVD set. What a life saver!
The kids that were watching range in age from 4 to 14. Despite the age difference, all of them absolutely loved it! Filled with loads of adventure and nonstop laughs, this set is perfect for almost any child.
The Wild Thornberrys: Season One, will arrive in stores on May 17, 2011. Produced by Klasky-Csupo for Nickelodeon, The Wild Thornberrys premiered in September 1998 and aired until 2004 with reruns airing on Nicktoons and CBS from 2002-2007. The Wild Thornberrys DVD release has long been anticipated by fans but has not been available instores until now.
The hit series follows the Thornberry family as they travel the world in their Communications Vehicle (or CommVee) looking for rare animals to film.After an encounter with an African shaman, their youngest child Eliza was given the power to speak to animals! Every episode in this adventure-packed DVD set follows Eliza as she comes face-to-face with an assortment of animals, continents and danger. Encounter wildlife in all its natural glory and eavesdrop on Eliza’s conversations with silverback gorillas, pythons, crested grebes, tapirs, capybaras, antelopes and opossums while the CommVee travels on!
Vibrant animation, exotic locations, charming storytelling plus an all-star voice cast, including Lacey Chabert (Party Of Five), Tim Curry (The Adventures Of Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius) and Flea (The Red Hot Chili Peppers) make season one of The Wild Thornberrys an epic family adventure. Featuring all 20 action-packed episodes, the collectible 4-DVD box set is priced to own at a suggested retail price of $29.93 and will no doubt attract a new audience of kids as well as young adults who grew up watching the television series.
According to research, 90% of kids don’t get the recommended about of fiber in their daily diets. In fact, did you know a four-year-old child should consume 25 grams of fiber daily, while an 11-year-old boy needs at least 31 grams? While food options are the best, Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies, a tasty, daily fiber supplement that helps kids ages 2-11 stay regular and maintain better digestive health*, are a great way to supplement the fiber found in fruits, vegetables and other fiber-rich foods. A recent recipient of the PTPA Seal of Approval, the dentist-approved, sugar, calorie and gluten-free fiber gummies are a great way to help bridge the gap between the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations and the actual amount of fiber a child consumes each day. One daily serving of three Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies provides 6 grams of fiber, the amount of fiber equivalent to 21 spears of asparagus!
And, because we know getting kids to eat foods high in fiber without complaint is a challenge faced by many moms the Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies website and Facebook page also offers helpful tips on how to incorporate a high-fiber diet into a busy family’s lifestyle with tips for meal planning and easy-to-make recipes, too.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies is made just for kids by Fleet®, a trusted brand for digestive health for more than 100 years. Suggested retail price is $7.99 for a bottle of 60 gummies; available at Walmart, CVS, Target and Walgreens, also online and other supermarkets and retailers nationwide. Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies is also on Facebook , and Twitter (@fibergummies), so be sure to find Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies to sample products, get coupons, and for a chance to win more fan prizes.
Exercise, along with a balanced diet, helps provide the foundation for a healthy, active lifestyle for every child. Now through March 27, 2011, you can visit www.fibergummies.com to enter the Pedia-Lax® Fiber Gummies “Keep Kids Moving” sweepstakes for a chance to win one of four prize packages, including a grand prize that includes the Endless Fun 11-in-1 Inflatable Bounce House and Waterslide and Xbox 360 Kinect Bundle or Playstation Move Bundle and a $100 Walmart gift card to buy age appropriate games. You can find more details and official rules at the Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies Web site.
My little ones, ages 3 and 7, took these each day with no problem. They loved the taste!
Comfort Mom Can Trust
Statistics show that preschool-aged children have around nine colds per year, kindergartners can have 12 colds per year and adolescents have about seven colds per year (cold season runs from September through March/April).
This could potentially mean a lot of days off from school or missed days from work for mom and dad! We can’t keep the kids home every time they have a runny or stuffy nose with an occasional cough but the question most of us are faced with is what products are safe and effective for our children; helping to keep them comfortable while they fight the cold.
Introducing, the PediaCare® line of products – with and without acetaminophen -- for children and infants – which address most sick-child situations: cough, cold, allergy, flu, congestion, fever and pain. Product offerings, in kid-pleasing flavors, match the formulations of the recent recall of children’s Tylenol products. In particular, PediaCare Infant and Children’s fever and pain reducers are a great solution for moms wanting a branded acetaminophen alternative.
Not a fan of going to the drug store to buy cold medicines? No problem…To guide parents in choosing the best over-the-counter medicine for their child, PediaCare® launched the PediaCare Shopper’s Guide, a free iPhone application that helps parents with children ages 1-11 to select the product which best addresses the symptoms their child is experiencing. It also helps parents to understand which products require a dosage recommendation from a pediatrician based on age restrictions. The PediaCare Shopper’s Guide also supplies you with complete product information, including a link to the PediaCare website for full product descriptions including dosage directions.
The iPhone application is not a diagnostic tool, but is designed for informational purposes only and does not constitute a medical diagnosis. The new iPhone application is available for free download at www.pediacare.com or on iTunes.
Availability: PediaCare products retail for approximately $6.99 for a 4 oz. bottle, and are available at drugstores, supermarkets and retailers nationwide. For more information about PediaCare products, visit www.pediacare.com
· PediaCare® Children's Fever Reducer Plus Multi-Symptom Cold (ages 6-11; okay for ages 4 & 5 with dosage directed by pediatrician)
· PediaCare® Children's Fever Reducer Plus Cough & Sore Throat (ages 6-11; okay for ages 4 & 5 with dosage directed by pediatrician)
· PediaCare® Children's Fever Reducer Plus Flu (ages 6-11; okay for ages 4 & 5 with dosage directed by pediatrician)
· PediaCare® Children's Fever Reducer Plus Cough & Runny Nose (ages 6-11; okay for ages 4 & 5 with dosage directed by pediatrician)
As luck would have it, I received my review package during a week when Tallen had a terrible cold. At the the time, I was having to give him two teaspoons of fever reducer and two teaspoons of cold medicine, every few hours. I switched to PediaCare® Children's Fever Reducer Plus Multi-Symptom Cold and loved the fact that I was only giving him half as much medication, with excellent results. He went from coughing all during the night to actually getting some rest, which I feel helped him get well faster.
Giveaway! Open to U.S. Residents only.
One lucky reader will win one bottle of Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies, one bottle of PediaCare® Children’s Fever Reducer/Pain Reliever and one bottle of PediaCare® Children’s Fever Reducer Plus Multi-Symptom Cold. For your first entry: Just comment on this post. You'll get one additional entry for completing the following...
Visit Fiber Gummies Facebook Page and Like them (1) entry
Follow Fiber Gummies on Twitter (1) entry
Follow A Kiss and A Peck with Google Friend Connect (1) entry
Like A Kiss and A Peck on Facebook (1) entry
Tweet about this giveaway (Tweet button is at the top left of this post) (1) entry
Be sure to comment after completing each of the above tasks, so it will count.
Winner will be chosen on March 8th via random drawing. If you do not have a valid email address on your profile, be sure to include one in your comment(s), If I cannot contact the winner for shipping info within 48 hours, I will choose another winner. Good Luck!
I was given no compensation, monetary or otherwise for this product review or for hosting this giveaway. I was given a sample of the products mentioned above, for the purpose of trying them, in order to write an honest review.
I was recently contacted by Silk, with an offer to try their new Silk Pure Almond and even better, the opportunity to host a giveaway for my readers. Silk provided me with two coupons, each good for one half-gallon of Silk Pure Almond.
After a few trips to my grocer, finding that it was not in stock yet, and repeatedly annoying the management for an ETA, I was finally able to obtain two containers of Silk Pure Almond last week. I chose both,the original and the vanilla flavors. I knew I was about to try a great product before it ever touched my lips. Why? Because the sweet lady that rang up my order that day was so thrilled when she picked up the package. It seems that she can have no dairy at all and was very happy to now have an alternative to soy milk. I could sort of relate. I drink soy milk and have learned to almost like it. But I have never totally enjoyed the taste of it. I've yet to grow accustomed to the aftertaste. In other words, I will be a good girl and replace cow's milk with soy milk for the health benefits, but the taste always reminds me that I am making a sacrifice.
I am happy to report that my trial of Silk Pure Almond was a completely pleasant experience. The Original flavor is delicious. The is no "offish" aftertaste or funky smell. It is just very, very, good milk. The Vanilla flavor is slightly sweeter and has a great flavor in it's own right. Most importantly, my kids really liked the taste. They drank the Vanilla as it was and tried the Original over cereal and also with chocolate syrup added. Each one of them gave Silk Pure Almond a thumbs up. I have been trying to get Tallen off dairy for years, in hopes of speeding up the improvement of his condition. Trying to switch him to soy milk always resulted in a huge blowout. Now, I have a wonderful new alternative.
Plus, Silk Pure Almond is very nutritious and all natural. Here are a few facts from their site...
Almonds are recognized by health professionals as a nutritious addition to a healthy diet. A serving of almonds provides an excellent source of vitamin E (a natural antioxidant), and a good source of protein and fiber. In fact, almonds are higher in protein and fiber than any other tree nut. Plus, they're naturally low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free.
It doesn’t take much to get from whole, natural almonds to Silk Pure Almond™ almondmilk. Each glass provides an excellent source of natural antioxidants* and as much calcium and vitamin D as dairy milk, with absolutely no cholesterol, saturated fat, dairy or soy. And, best of all, a serving of Silk Pure Almond Original almondmilk is only 60 calories, and a delicious glass of Vanilla is just 90.
Smooth, refreshing and indescribably yummy, our almondmilk goes everywhere milk goes – from cereal to coffee to straight up in a glass – but with fewer calories than 1% milk.* And just like dairy milk, Silk Pure Almond almondmilk is an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D. All that, with the subtle, satisfying flavor of real, natural almonds.
Almondmilk cooks and bakes to perfection, and can be substituted for milk in many recipes. Discover soups, cakes, muffins and more – with fewer calories than you’d think.
On the off chance that I haven't convinced you to give Silk Pure Almond a try, you can register at the site and print off a .75 coupon and try it for yourself. Here is the link.
Now the details about the awesome giveaway!
There will be three (3) winners in this contest. Each of the winning three will receive a coupon for a free Silk Pure Almond but one of these will also receive a Silk Pure Almond branded ChicoBag in addition to the coupon. To enter, simply leave a comment below telling me why you would like to try Silk Pure Almond or, if you have already tried it, comment and tell me what you think of it. Winners will be chosen on Sunday, June 20, 2010 at random. If your email address is not available on your profile, please include with your comment. If I cannot contact the winner(s), I will choose another after 24 hours. Good Luck!
* Silk provided me with the product written about in this article for testing and review purposes. I have received no other form of compensation. The opinions expressed are my own.
Recently, I was offered an opportunity to try a pair of eyeglasses of my choosing, from GlassesUSA. This couldn't have happened at a better time, as my son had destroyed my contacts literally hours before I received this invitation. So I jumped at this great opportunity!
I began wearing prescription glasses at age 9 so, after nearly thirty years, I pretty much have the process of purchasing eyeglasses down pat. After my exam, I am placed in a room with more mirrors than a 70's disco and am then bombarded with hundreds of pairs of glasses. The assistant proceeds to tell me that every single pair I try on brings out the green in my eyes or slims my face, blah, blah, BLAH! After what seems to be an eternity later and almost always with a pounding headache, I stumble out into the blinding sun and drive home to wait for their call, telling me that my glasses have arrived. My heart aflutter with anticipation, I hurry back to their office and pick up my "prize". Somehow, the glasses never seem to look as good as I had remembered. Heck, sometimes they're not even the same color. So, lets just say that I was a little less than convinced that I could order glasses online and ever be satisfied with them. Simply put, I WAS WRONG.
The whole process of ordering from GlassesUSA was so easy. I just called my eye doctor and asked them to fax me a copy of my glasses prescription. Even though my contact prescription had expired, I was relieved to learn that eyeglass prescriptions are valid for two years. I provided GlassesUSA with this information, along with my choice of frame. Within days, my new glasses arrived. I opened the box and the first thing I saw was an awesome, hard-shell, glasses case. I am sure that I probably held my breath as I opened it. I had to smile when I saw how absolutely beautiful my new glasses were. Then I started to pray, "Please, God, Please, let me be able to see through these." (Being pretty much blind and having gone days without proper glasses, I was honestly that desperate.) I closed my eyes and slipped them onto my face. I opened my eyes quickly and was rewarded with the vision of my kids' sharp, non-fuzzy, crystal clear, faces, waiting for my verdict. "I can see!", I announced. Ross was giggling and clapping. Honestly, I felt like doing the same.
The style of frame I chose is called Politix.and I get so many compliments on these glasses, even from complete strangers, most asking where I purchased them. All are amazed that I was able to get such nice glasses online.Several of them have borrowed a pen and written the web address right on their hands! I have never received such positive reactions to my eye wear before. Now, some information about GlassesUSA...
From the GlassesUSA site:
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
We offer our customers a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee because we have confidence that you will love our products! If for any reason, our eyeglasses did not meet your standards, you may return them for an eyeglasses exchange or a refund.
Save Money!
GlassesUSA.com is one of the leading online optical websites – with minimal operational costs so we can offer our customers a vast variety of complete eyeglasses started from $35 and savings up to 70%! How can we do this? It’s simple. We hardly have any overhead! There are no middle men. We own our optic laboratories and our frames are always in stock – guaranteeing our customers the most high-quality yet affordable prescription eyewear. We pay less. You pay less. It’s a win-win situation!
Top quality eyeglasses!
We never compromise on quality at GlassesUSA.com! With our own top-of-the-line laboratories and opticians, we supply our customers with lenses that exceed FDA requirements. Every pair of lenses is tested in our “5-stripe” process prior to shipment. If they do not meet OUR standards – they are not shipped. We use the best products and technologies to manufacture and process our lenses.
Here is my favorite part!
All of our returned eyeglasses are not restocked as they are with most optical stores. Ours are “recycled”! What does that mean? Well, we believe that everyone should have access to vision care. So, we donate all of our returned eyeglasses to various organizations around the US who then sanitize and redistribute the eyeglasses with the correct prescription to people all over the world who can’t afford vision care! Seeing properly shouldn’t be a luxury – it should be a necessity.
As someone who knows firsthand what it's like to be unable to see, knowing that GlassesUSA makes such an effort to bring the gift of sight to those less fortunate makes me feel even better about promoting their company. After my very positive experience with this company, I strongly suggest that you give them a try. I think you'll be happy that you did.
I was recently asked to try POM Wonderful 100% Pure Pomegranate Juice. I jumped at the chance! I'll begin by sharing some information about this wonderful product...
From the Pom Wonderful website: \ is a little bit sweet, a little bit tart and a whole lotta healthy. Bursting with superior levels of naturally occurring antioxidants and backed by $32 million in medical research, it’s also 100% authentic, 100% delicious and 100% pure, meaning there’s no added sugar, colorants or cheap filler juices. So raise a glass to life. And the pursuit of healthiness.
All of POM Wonderful Juices:
contain no added sugars, preservatives or colors
are a good source of potassium
are gluten-free
are flash pasteurized to retain both flavor and nutrients
are certified kosher
You can find POM Wonderful Juices in the refrigerated section of the produce department of your local supermarket.
Our POM Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice is available in convenient 8oz (limited distribution), 16oz, 24oz, 48oz, and 60oz bottles.
Our Health Story
For centuries, the pomegranate has been valued as a symbol of health and has been the centerpiece of many traditional folk medicine practices. Learn more about the History & Culture of the pomegranate.
In 1998, POM initiated modern medical research to understand the health benefits of the Wonderful variety of pomegranates. To date, we’ve invested $32 million. This research has involved a number of top scientists from leading universities around the world, including a Nobel Laureate.
So far, 47 total studies, including 14 clinical studies, have been published in peer-reviewed journals. Primary research areas have included prostate, cardiovascular, and erectile function as well as antioxidant composition and safety/bioavailability.
Preliminary results have been encouraging and many additional research studies are in progress. Learn more about POM's published studies.
I encourage all of my readers to follow the link above and read POM's published studies. The results are absolutely astounding. After reading the information provided, I was very eager to try this juice! Now, I will share my personal experience...
The first thing that caught my attention is the super-cute bottle! By the way, POM Wonderful manufactures their bottles right next to their filling plant, which means no wasteful transportation of air-filled bottles.
After refrigerating for a few hours, I took my first sip of the juice. I can best describe it by telling you that it has a full body taste, like that of concord grape juice, not the taste, just the richness. Not watered down at all. It has a slight afterbite, sort of like cranberry juice. The more I drank of it, the more my taste buds became accustomed to the unique flavor. The whole family tried it. Everyone, except for the smallest two, loved it! Ross and Tallen, did a little dance, while contorting their faces.lol I attribute this to the immaturity of their palates. I did find that, when I mixed it with other fruit juices, they liked it just fine. If you are looking for a nutritious and flavorful juice, from a health conscious, environmentally conscious, company, you should give POM Wonderful 100% Pure Pomegranate Juice a try.
Disclaimer: I was not compensated in any way for this review. I was, of course, supplied with a sample of the juice, for tasting purposes. The above is my honest opinion of the product.
We’re all on high alert on preventing ourselves and our family from getting the flu this season and the thought of being in tight quarters makes most cringe. That’s why I’m so excited to tell you about MyClyns, a new alcohol-free, germ protection spray that you can immediately use on your face when exposed to harmful pathogens. The non-toxic, non-burning spray contains a fast-acting solution that has shown to reduce more than 60 potentially dangerous germs, including MRSA, staph and E-coli.
Why It’s Unique: MyClyns is the only germ defense for use in the eyes, nose and mouth – offering protection where you need it most – common entry points for most germs. It is a compact, non-aerosol pump spray shaped like a pen and easy to slip into a pocket, baby bag, purse or carry-on (meets airline restrictions) for everyday use and when traveling. MyClyns is safe to spray directly onto the face and even onto open cuts and abrasions. It’s safe for people of all ages, even those who wear contact lenses. While many other germ sanitizers are good for prevention, MyClyns is designed to be used after the unexpected incident occurs –so if a person sitting in front of you or next to you coughs or sneezes, simply take out your MyClyns and spray 2-3 mists on your face and you’re good to go. Each vial has approximately 60 mists and can be thrown out when it’s empty.
MyClyns is trusted and used by hospitals and first responders (EMS, police, firemen, etc.) – whose contact with germs is often extreme – and is now being made available to consumers to be the perfect complement to hand sanitizers as part of a complete germ-fighting routine. MyClyns, is sold at CVS stores nationwide along with other chain stores for suggested retail price ranging from $7.99- $9.99.
To help moms and family caregivers keep their families healthy, MyClyns recently launched a newly designed Web site www.mygermspray.com where you can get a lot of tips and information about staying healthy this cold and flu season. The Web site even has a section devoted to germs called the Germ University. By the time you “graduate,” you'll be armed with all the information you need to protect you and your family from harmful germs, especially during cold and flu season.
Plus, check out this fun video (I’m sure you can relate to how this mom feels!). The MyClyns Mom (and her trusty spray sidekick) will stop at nothing to help protect her family. Even with the help of the family dog, germs don’t stand a chance.
Consumers can also keep up to date on the latest from MyClyns, including giveaway offers by fanning them on Facebook.
One lucky reader has a chance to win the new MyClyns. US Residents only.
*Independent laboratory tests have shown that the solution in MyClyns demonstrates a 99.99% reduction in more than 60 potentially dangerous pathogens.
My Findings-As I wasn't even aware that such a product existed, until the past week, I naturally thought it best to test this on myself, before trusting it on my children. I took a nervous deep breath and sprayed the MyClyns directly into my face, three times. I have very sensitive skin and even simple lotion has the potential to make my skin feel as though it is on fire! So, you can understand why I was more than a tad concerned. I am happy to report that , other than a, slightly moist, cooling sensation, I felt nothing. The MyClyns that I applied was dry in mere seconds. I haven't had a single bad reaction.
I am thrilled about MyClyns! As a mother of six, I cannot even begin to tell you the times that, in all the hustle, bustle, and confusion, of getting everyone out the door, loaded into the car, and driving to our destination, I have forgotten to apply hand sanitizer to everyone, before leading my tribe into a packed mall or restaurant. I only realized my mistake when I , in motherly horror, saw one of the kids touch, or God forbid, lick a door handle, shopping cart, or toy that anyone on this planet might have touched before them. To have MyClyns on hand, would have been a true blessing! I don't plan to be without this wonderful product ever again. I plan to keep one stashed in my purse, diaper bag, and each vehicle.
Softlips® Lip Conditioners
This winter don’t let the cold air damage your lips. Prepare your pucker for the mistletoe with the new limited editions flavors of Softlips® lip conditioners– new Sugar & Spice and Sugar Plum Berry as well as Winter Mint and Sugar Cookies.
Perfect as a stocking stuffer or gift to yourself, the seasonal flavors help protect lips from the sun with SPF 20 and have the same great moisturizing properties as Softlips’ other popular flavors. Each winter flavor comes paired with a complimentary Softlips® favorite lip balm:
New in 2009! Softlips® Sugar and Spice
New in 2009! Softlips® Sugar Plum Berry
Softlips® Winter Mint
Softlips® Sugar Cookie
For a suggested retail price of $2.99 to $3.99 for the dual-stick pack. Now through out the holiday/winter season, the limited addition flavors Sugar and Spice and Sugar Plum Berry will be available at Targetand Winter Mint and Sugar Cookie will be available at Walgreens.
One lucky reader has the chance to win a set of the new Softlips limited edition winter flavors. US residents only.
My Findings- Softlips Lip Conditioners are not new to me or my girls. Anyone with Teens and Tweens probably knows that girls love this product. The flavors are unique and yummy and it makes lips butter-soft in an instant. It's size is perfect for slipping into a pocket, on days they don't carry a purse. I love it myself, for all those same reasons. Even Tallen loves for me to apply this to his lips as he can't stand for them to get dried out while he's sleeping.
Anti Monkey Butt Powder
The perfect stocking stuffer for the active guy in your life…whether he takes part in physical hobbies or has a job that runs him around!Anti Monkey Butt Powder, invented by motocross riders, is designed to prevent and reduce friction and irritation that can result from excess sweat. As you know, excessive sweat can cause irritation of the buttocks and inner thighs, also known as "monkey butt". Unlike other powders, Anti Monkey Butt has calamine and talc which gives it a cooling sensation instead of the burning that you might get from other powder products (anybody who has used those other powders will know what “the burning” is I am referring to!). Find out more at www.antimonkeybutt.com.
It’s got the cutest label and it’s a real product that has a huge following. There are more than 13,000 Anti Monkey Butt fans on our Facebook page alone!
Anti Monkey Butt also has a new lady friend – newLady Anti Monkey Butt – which makes a great stocking stuffer for women, too. Lady Anti Monkey Butt Powder delivers the same great results, but is made with calamine and cornstarch for a more silky texture. Perfect for frictional discomfort that women often experience when using exercise equipment, running, driving, cycling, bra straps/cleavage perspiration or just walking for ENDLESS hours in the mall doing your holiday shopping!
Available in mass market retail nationwide, as well as via online retailers and at www.antimonkeybutt.com. Suggested retail price for Anti Monkey Butt® Powder is $5.95 for a 6-ounce bottle.
One lucky winner has a chance to win a bottle of each Anti Monkey Butt Powder. US resident’s only.
My Findings- If I currently do, or ever have, suffered from monkey butt, I sure won't be admitting it here!I will say that put the Lady Anti Monkey Butt powder into my shoesand it works wonderfully at staving off that super gross feeling I get, when wearing my ~Crocs knock-offs without socks. The smell is lovely. [whispers] This also works wonders when applied beneath "the twins", during those sticky summer months, when gardening and doing yard work, on hot humid days.
I have also had a revelation of sorts. It's no secret that my Hubs is a total grump most days. Writing up this review has got me to wondering if this might not be caused by a dreaded , man crack, monkey butt affliction. I think that I might just take Hubs for a walk on the beach and ask if he's been feeling "less than fresh". If this is the case, I will pass him that beautiful yellow bottle of Anti Monkey Butt powder, and we will stroll off into the sunset. Who knows? Hubs could be a whole new man by New Year's Day! It's worth a shot!
Da Rules!- To enter, just leave a comment to this post. One comment allowed per person In order to give everyone a fair chance to at winning one of these products, I am going to do things a bit differently. Everyone's entry stays in the pot for all three drawings. So, one person could well win more than one of these products. For example, if you are chosen as the winner of the MyClyns, I will put your name back in with all the others and then draw a winner for the Softlips Lip Conditioners, so there is a chance that you could win that as well. Winners will be chosen on Monday, January 4th, 2010.If your email address is not available on your profile,be certain to include it with your comment. Otherwise, I will be unable to contact you for shipping information, if you win. Then, I will have no choice but to choose a new winner. If you have not responded to me within 48 hours of being notified that you've one, I will also be forced to choose a new winner. Good Luck!
Disclaimer- Other than being provided with a sample of each product, for testing purposes, and the hysterical giggles from my kids,whenever I said Anti Monkey Butt, I have received no compensation for this review.
When I was contacted by Learning Link Technologies, about trying their program, sharing my review, and hosting a giveaway for my readers, I was thrilled. While I was unfamiliar with their program, upon visiting their site and watching the video and then later going over the resources offered there, I have high hopes that this program could be of great benefit to Tallen.
This review will be a bit different, as I plan to host the giveaway starting today, but I prefer to post my review in future posts, one every couple of weeks, so everyone can get a better idea of how well Tallen is helped as we proceed with the program.
First, I would like for any of my readers, who have children with learning disabilities or weaknesses, to take a few moments and watch this very insightful and informative video. You will also find an offer to view their free video series.
There are Millions of Students Suffering from Learning Disabilities!
Is your child one of them?
Have you desperately searched for help, only to be met with one dead end after another?
Have you exhausted all resources available, only to find that nothing works?
It’s No Wonder!
There is very little help available. And trying to figure out what works and what doesn’t usually leaves you standing alone in the rain!
Yet, We are Experiencing an Epidemic in Our Country!
* 1 in 5 has dyslexia
* 1 in 150 has autism
* There are over 1 million diagnosed with ADD/ADHD
* There are over 2.9 million students in Special Education
And the sad truth is that the school system is just not equipped to deal with these daunting numbers.
You Can’t Fix Poor Academics with More Academics!
The reason that schools aren’t able to help the struggling learner is because they are only equipped to deal with academics. Unfortunately, this does very little to help the learner who is already failing academically.
Think about it. If you were performing a sport, say gymnastics, incorrectly all day long, would holding you after class and allowing you to continue with the same set of instructions and the same activities fix the problem? Certainly not.
Yet that is how the school system is handling learning issues. Students are given modifications and accommodations, but overall are still given the same academics in the same manner that didn’t work all day long.
This is like flushing more water into an already leaking pipe!
The only way to fix the problem is to go to the root of the problem.
There’s More than One Way to Learn!
Students who are falling behind in school don’t learn with traditional methods. If they did, then they would be succeeding in school.
It’s possible to strengthen what is weak in the learning systems of students. It’s easy to do and students enjoy having activities that don’t involve another workbook or worksheet.
In essence, students can learn to learn!
If a student isn’t learning easily and is failing school, then something needs to be done. There is a glitch in the student’s learning system and if something isn’t done, then nothing is changed.
The student needs a new toolbox, to be given a new set of tools for academic success.
Did you know that the brain can be rewired for learning? Which in turn leads to academic success. And this is all done through simple, repetitive exercises that build new neural pathways in the brain.
The brain is not hard wired for all activities at birth. If a stage is interrupted along the way, then a glitch in the wiring can take place. This in turn affects learning and academic success. It’s possible to go back and rewire the brain correctly through simple exercises. Usually a student shows academic growth within six to eight weeks of brain retraining.
And did you know that a student’s memory can be strengthened through activities that slowly become more difficult. Memory “muscle” is increased just like leg muscles are built up as a runner trains for a marathon. The result? Math facts can be memorized. Words are spelled correctly. Reading comprehension occurs naturally.
And it is now available to you in an easy video format.
Step 1: Sign up for the Brain Training System. You will receive a new video and activity packet each month for 13 months. For a limited time you will receive the first month for FREE!
Step 2: Download the video and activity packet on your computer
Step 3: Watch the video with your child and simply have him/her perform the simple activities. This usually takes about an hour once a week.
Step 4: Three to five times a week have your child perform designated activities in the video. This usually takes about 15 minutes.
Step 5: Continue with this set of activities until your new video and activity packet arrives the following month.
Plus, Learning Link Technologies has been kind enough to allow one of my lucky readers the chance to win 3 full months of the program, at no cost. This is a $240 value!
Here's how to enter: Just leave a comment below. It's that simple. You may also earn extra entries by becoming a registered user at Learning-Aids.com ,Joining the Brain Training Facebook Group, or following Learning Link on Twitter. Be sure sure to leave another comment for each extra entry requirement that you complete, so I can keep track of them. A winner will be chosen, via random drawing, on December 31st, 2009. I will post the winner info here and also email the winner.
Disclosure: Other than free use of the program, for the purpose of trying the product to gather information to make an informed review, and the gift of three free months of program access to one reader of my blog, to be chosen in a random drawing, I have been given no other payment, monetary or otherwise, in exchange for this or any upcoming related content review(s). My review does and will consist solely of my own personal experience with and my own opinion of, the product. I strongly reccomend that you do your own research, before purchasing this, or any other product.
When I first heard about SmartKnitKIDS® Seamless Sensitivity Socks, I knew I had to let Tallen try them. Most of my readers are aware by now that Tallen has Asperger's and so he has a lot of sensitivity issues. Bright lights, loud noises, and ill fitting clothing, have always been very bothersome to him. I have noticed that, as he ages, these things are slowly but surely getting a little better. Tallen has never enjoyed wearing socks. Even when I succeeded in getting them on his feet, he soon caught me looking the other way and took them right off. The toe seams drove him to distraction. Even turning the socks inside out didn't help, as he could still feel the lump of the seam. Also, he cannot bear wearing things that bunch or get twisted. Therefore he feels more secure in clothing that has a snug fit.
As I said, I knew I had to get some of these socks for Tallen! So, I contacted the company directly and asked to be sent a few samples for Tallen that he could try, promising to follow up with a review after he had put them through the works. I am happy to report that he loves them! He actually asks to put these socks on, under the guise that his feet are cold. These socks fit him snugly, they do not ride down, bunch, or make his feet sweaty. He has not complained the fist time. As a matter of fact, he loves them so much, I drew designs on the bottoms of one pair with puffy fabric paint, to make them slip-proof, so he can wear them around the house with no shoes. SmartKnitKIDS® Seamless Sensitivity Socks may not do the trick for every child with sensitivity issues, but they have worked for my son. Like most parents that need to find solutions to a problem, I try many different things until I find something that works and then I stick with it. I am absolutely sticking with these!
Personally, I am touched that a company cares enough to tackle this problem. I have contacted many places before, asking for help to find or maybe even design special socks or shoes that my son could wear. I wasn't rejected, I was completely ignored. I am happy to report that I have been treated with nothing but the utmost respect and caring by Rose, my contact at SmartKnitKIDS®. As some members of my family actually owned a hosiery business at one point and I worked for them as a toe seamstress, I can attest to the fact that producing a sock with no toe seams had to be a huge undertaking and took a lot of thought.
Please take a few moments to visit their site and see for yourself, all the styles and sizes that they offer, Plus, you can read more information than I could ever manage to include in this short blog post.
*Other than the socks that I was sent for Tallen to try, I received no compensation for this review and the company did not try to influence my review in either direction. Tallen wore the socks, loved them, and I am passing that information along to my readers.
Aren't these cards adorable?! Gateway-Longview's Christmas card campaign "Gateway Greetings" is in full swing and the cards above are available for purchase with all the proceeds to benefit the at-risk children in their programs.
Gateway-Longview, in Buffalo, NY, is one of the largest not-for-profit, child and family service agencies in Western New York that provides care, counseling and support to over 850 at-risk children, youth and their families in our community. The agency was founded in 1890 and provides community support through programs such as foster care, adoption, therapeutic education services, residential programs and therapeutic visitation.
Won't you consider buying one or more packs to help them out? Why spend the money at the big stores when you can buy these cards knowing the money will help kids in need? You can place an order by following THIS LINK.
I recently has the chance to listen to a five Song CD, by the band N.E.D. I wanted to share with my readers, my thoughts impression of their music, as well as tell everyone what an awesome group of people the band N.E.D. is comprised of.
First, I'll share some information about the band...
Comprised of six musically talented gynecologic cancer surgeons, N.E.D.’s mission is to create awareness about gynecologic cancers, to save lives and bring hope to women currently undergoing treatment. No Evidence of Disease was released September 8th to coincide with Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month, and has been charting among Amazon’s best selling albums ever since, peaking at number 235.
Next up for N.E.D. is their involvement in the Inaugural Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Movement (GCAM) Weekend in Washington, DC. The weekend includes a 5K and half-marathon race to end women’s cancer on November 8th, as well as a 1-mile walk intended to promote awareness for the diseases and raise funds for they Gynecologic Cancer Foundation (GCF). The band will conclude the events with a live performance at the post-race party for the estimated 10,000 attendees, as a celebration of survivorship. To learn more about the race, please visit www.gcfrace.com.
The band and their EP have received support from MTV’s social change site, Think MTV where they were a featured topic and Lifetime Women’s Network, who throughout the month of September, featured their public service announcement pushing women to know the warning signs and get checked regularly for gynecologic cancers.
The band has also created a viral widget to promote the initiative, which provides data/statistics about gynecologic cancers, album/band updates, event info, music and a link to donate. The widget has garnered over 130,000 views since its launch in the beginning of September.
To say that I am impressed with what this band is doing, would be a vast understatement. When faced with life threatening illness, it is all to easy to get the impression that the physicians and surgeons in charge of your care are simply there to do a job and that, once they take off their white coat for the day, you do not even enter their mind again, until your next appointment. That you're almost more of a product than a person. That to them you are no more than some words on a chart. This project, this band, these wonderful people, prove that this is not always the case. Their concern and care for their patients continues long after the work day ends. My hat goes off to them.
If I were to say that I expected to enjoy their CD, I would be lying. I was truly expecting to hear classical music, with no words. I was so wrong! I honestly enjoyed listening to this CD. I was surprised that the music reminded me of Boston, Alice in Chains, and 10,000 Maniacs. Ross even danced around to the music and tried to sing along. I love songs that I can dance to and sing along with. But, I also love songs that are so good that I don't even notice the words so much, because the song takes my mind on a journey of deep thought and reflection of the heart. Hard to explain, but I am sure a lot of you know what I mean. I definitely experienced this while listening to N.E.D. I strongly suggest that you buy one for yourself. You'll be supporting a great cause and adding some great music to your collection to boot!
N.E.D. Website www.nedtheband.com
MySpace www.myspace.com/noevidenceofdisease
Facebook www.facebook.com/pages/NED/42697252281
Twitter www.twitter.com/nedtheband
The Gynecologic Cancer Foundation (GCF) www.TheGCF.org
Women's Cancer Network (WCN) www.wcn.org
GCF's National Cervical Cancer Public Education Campaign www.cervicalcancercampaign.org
The Inaugural Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month Half Marathon - www.gcfrace.com
CELEBRATE SURVIVORS AND SUPPORT GIRLFRIENDS EVERYWHERE WITH THE
KN PINK RIBBON SIGNATURE COLLECTION™ for 2009
In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness month, KN Karen Neuburger and Dillard’s department stores nationwide have teamed together to host Pink Parties. For each purchase of KN Karen Neuburger pajamas during the Pink Parties, KN will donate 30 minutes of research to Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The goal is to sponsor a month of breast cancer research to aid in the development of lifesaving treatments and an eventual cure for breast cancer. In addition, to help KN reach the goal of sponsoring a month of research, donations will also be accepted through their Time for Research page.
KN Karen Neuburger® lifestyle brand and The Breast Cancer Research Foundation® (BCRF) are partnering this fall and inviting shoppers to participate in the “Time for Research” program. During the month of October 2009, KN will host “Pink Parties” at over 300 Dillards store locations where guests will get the chance to shop for a cause. For each purchase of KN Karen Neuburger pajamas during the “Pink Parties,” KN will donate 30 minutes of research to BCRF. Shoppers will also receive a free gift with purchase of a pink ribbon key chain. The goal is to sponsor a month of breast cancer research to aid in the development of lifesaving treatments and an eventual cure for breast cancer.
To better understand the importance of each and every minute of research, consider the following; in one hour of research a breast cancer biopsy can be performed. In one day, a clinician can conduct genetic counseling for one woman. In one week, researchers can compare ten tumor samples.
“KN Karen Neuburger is thrilled to partner again this year with BCRF. KN is committed to help fund ground-breaking research by BCRF’s international team of doctors. We are passionate about finding a cure for breast cancer, and we are thrilled that shoppers will be able to participate in this life-affirming process,” says Jenna Lowe, Director of Marketing and PR for Russell Newman.
For more information and details, please visit the KN Shop for a Cause online at www.karenneuburger.com.
About The Breast Cancer Research Foundation®
The Breast Cancer Research Foundation® was founded in 1993 by Evelyn H. Lauder as an independent, not-for-profit 501(c) (3) organization dedicated to funding innovative clinical and translational research. The Foundation supports scientists at top universities and academic medical centers worldwide conducting the most advanced and promising breast cancer research that will lead to prevention and a cure in our lifetime. A minimum of 85 cents of each dollar donated to the Foundation goes directly to breast cancer research and awareness programs. In October 2008, $34.5 million was awarded to 166 scientists across the United States and in Australia, Canada, Latin America, the Middle East, and throughout Europe. And for the eighth consecutive year, BCRF received Charity Navigator’s highest rating, four stars, thus outperforming over 99% of the evaluated charities, while the American Institute of Philanthropy has awarded BCRF its highest possible rating of A+. BCRF is the only breast cancer organization in the U.S. to receive these accolades. For more information, visit www.bcrfcure.org or call 1.866.FIND.A.CURE.
About KN Karen Neuburger® (KN Ltd.)
The KN Karen Neuburger® lifestyle brand is synonymous with comfort-inspired fashion and home merchandise. The brand’s signature softness and quality can be experienced in heritage sleepwear and lounge wear for the whole family, paper goods, crafting and memory products, sportswear and accessories, home collection, furnishings and décor. KN™ and KN Luxury Home™ products can be found in department stores, specialty stores and online at www.karenneuburger.com.
I have been lucky enough to try a pair of these pajamas for myself and can tell you that they are baby soft and not binding at all. With our recent cold snap, wearing these has been like being wrapped in a little piece of Heaven! Also, they are absolutely beautiful!
I am thrilled to offer two of my readers the chance to own a pair of these lovely, snuggly, pajamas!
To enter, just leave a comment below.
Only one comment per person, please!
Two winners will be chosen at random on 10-31-2009.
The first winner drawn will receive:
(1) Set of Pink Ribbon Signature PJs - Size XL ( RV $78.00)
and (1) Pair of Pink Ribbon chenille socks ( RV $15.00)
The second winner drawn will receive :
(1) Set of Pink Ribbon Signature PJs - Size XL ( RV $78.00)
I will post the winners' names here and also contact them via email.
Please make sure that your email address is available on your profile or that you leave it with your comment. Winners have 48 hours to contact me with their shipping information or another winner will be chosen at random.
This contest is only open to those with U.S. shipping addresses.
All the ponies can’t wait for the Winter Wishes festival where the Wishing Star grants each pony one special wish. But when the Wishing Star disappears, they go on a journey to find it. But will they make it back in time for the festival? Join Pinkie Pie and all her pony friends on their journey as they discover that friendship can make wishes come true!
This is a beautifully animated feature that Ross just adores. Tallen enjoyed watching this as well. Even though she is 2 and he is almost 6, each them found this movie captivating. She, for the lovely animation and because she loves ponies. He really became absorbed in the storyline.
The My Little Pony: Twinkle Wish Adventure DVD also includes several special features...
Six Sing Along Songs
"My Little Pony" Theme Song "The Little Thing-A-Ma-Do Song" "Dreams Do Come True" "Somewhere Super New" "That's What Makes A Friend" "A Wonderful Winter"
"Waiting For The Winter Wishes Festival" : a prequel to this story
"Elfun And Friends" : a new animated short
Four Downloadable Activities
Coloring Sheet Pony Note To Santa How To Make A Snowman Cut-Out Pony Ornaments
Recently, Tallen and I were offered the exciting chance to test drive JumpStart Online and their new 3-D Virtual World. The target ages for this site are 3-10, but Ross (2) and Selly (12) also had a great time, when Tallen gave them a chance to play.
The virtual world provides your child with an exciting adventure and safe online play, while they learn at the same time. The key to learning is making it fun and JumpStart.com definitely fits the bill. Recently, the option for players to interact with one another has been added, but you can turn this option off, if you'd rather your child not have access to it.
I was also very impressed with the JumpStart blog ! I went there expecting to find post after post with updates about the 3-D world. That wasn't the case. I am very impressed with all the fun ideas and educational information that I found there. I will definitely be frequenting their blog.
Tallen took to the virtual world like a duck to water! He had a blast creating his own Jumpee! One thing I like about this process is that the kids are offered canned names to give their Jumpee, thus eliminating the chance of anyone accidentally using their own name or an inappropriate name.
He loved playing the games and earning points, then checking out where he stood in the Hall of Fame. He had a very easy time navigating from place to place. It was very similar to the Wii that he plays so often. He would have played for hours on end, had I not made him take a break!
If you would like a chance to win a Three (3) Month Membership at JumpStart.com, just follow these instructions...
Initial Entry - Just leave a comment below, stating why you would like to win. = (1) Entry
If your email is not available on your profile, you must include one in your first entry. Otherwise, I have no way of contacting you.
You can receive additional entries by doing the following :
Visit the JumpStart Blog and comment on any post there = (1) Additional Entry
Blog about this giveaway at your own blog and include a link back to my post =(1)Additional Entry
Become a follower of A Kiss and A Peck = (1) Additional Entry
Please leave a new comment for each of these entries, to be sure you get credit for them.
A winner will be chosen on August 12, 2009, via all the entries being placed in a bowl and Ross picking the lucky person (and probably her nose lol) I will Flip the process and post here for all to watch.
I recently had the chance to review the wonderful book Hot on the Range, by R.D. Jentsch. Hot on the Range centers around a horse named Chester who, in his quest to find a way to cool down, meets and talks with many other animals around the farm, and discovers how they keep cool, on such a hot day. Finally, his owner notices Chester's problem and helps him out.
This is a great children's book for many reasons. First, it sparks their imagination, by letting them envision that animals think just like us, and talk to each other. Most children love the idea of animals having a whole other side to them, other than what we can see and hear them do. Also, the book teaches them to problem solve. By trying different things and not giving up, Chester is finally able to find a solution to his problem. Finally, I liked the fact that, even though this book is for children, it uses some larger words than one usually doesn't find in such books. This helps to improve the child's vocabulary and builds their confidence about reading.
Ross (2), Tallen (5), and I, have read this book over and over since receiving it, about a month ago. Tallen took to it right away and, after the first couple of times of my reading it, he now reads it for himself. In the beginning, Ross mostly squealed and pointed at the animals, mimicking the sounds they make and asking lots of questions. But now, she basically knows the story by heart and tells it along with me, as I read.
I highly recommend that you add this book to your collection. My kids love the story and I love reading it to them. The only bad thing I can think of is that reading this book tends to make each of us very, very, thirsty! LOL
Recently, I had the opportunity to try a couple of products from the LustCosmetics line of sexual wellness and intimate health products.Along with my husband, I tried both the Lust For Double O Multiple Pleasure Potion and the Liquid Lust Arousal Mist.
Without going into great detail, I will tell you that both myself and my husband were pleasantly surprised by these products. These arrived in very discreet packaging. The products themselves had no scary, erotic, pictures on them. The artwork was very tastefully done (sorry, graphic designer wanna-be, showing a little LOL). Though I probably had a few doubts as to their ability to perform as they claimed, I can honestly say that the two products that we tried did indeed increase our sensation and made sex more enjoyable. They had a very pleasant scent that was not too loud. In other words, after all was said and done, the place didn't smell like we'd set fire to a fruit salad. The products can be used alone, but even if I had tried that, I wouldn't talk about it here. I can tell you that Hubs and I had a great time trying them out and will most likely be ordering more products from Lust Cosmetics. Their product aren't over-priced and are sure to add a spark to your love life and bring you and your partner out of a sexual rut. Visit the site, order a product, and give it a try. You won't regret it.
From the site: Lust Cosmetics is on a mission to provide the highest quality SEXUAL WELLNESS and intimate health products this industry has ever experienced. Lust Cosmetics is determined to bring elegance and whimsy to bedrooms in both North America and Europe.
Irecently had the chance to try Palm Leaf Plates from Marx Foods and I am so excited to tell you about them! I chose to try the rectangle shape, 6½" x 9½", with a depth of 1”. Until a few weeks ago, I had no idea that such a product even existed. Here are the details...
Unlike most traditional paper plates, no trees are harmed or destroyed in the production of Palm Leaf Plates.
Palm Leaf Plates are completely bio-degradable and can even be added to your compost pile.
Naturally discarded sheaths of the leaves of the Adaka palm tree, which in the course of its biological life cycle, dry, fall and regenerate, are collected.
The palm sheaths are then cleaned in fresh spring water and molded into bowls, plates, and other disposable dinnerware.
Palm leaf plates are leak proof and able to withstand hot and cold temperatures without getting soggy or flimsy.
Upon opening my package of plates, the first thing that struck me is how pretty they are. It was hard to make myself use such a pretty plate just as I would any other disposable plate. But, in the interest of a completely honest product review, I bit the bullet and put these plates to the test. I decided that the best way to test how these plates stood up to various foods would be to eat my dinner on one of these plates, while using our regular plates or paper plates, for the rest of the family. This allowed me to try these with several different types of food. I can now report that they passed with flying colors. I experienced no folding or leakage with the following meals: Pinto Beans, Potato Salad, Slaw, and Corn Bread; Lasagna, Tossed Salad w/ Dressing, and Garlic Bread, Hamburger and Fries; Tacos and Tossed Salad; Eggs, Bacon, Biscuits and Gravy. I suggest you try Palm Leaf Plates at your next cook out or other casual dinner party. You won't be disappointed.
Marx foods also offers many other great products, including various meats, seafood, and spices. Do yourself a favor and visit their site at http://www.marxfoods.com/
I recently had the chance to read the book Oscar the Pig: Mommy Goes to Work, to Tallen and Ross. The story centers around Oscar's separation anxiety and the unique way his babysitter helps him cope. I won't give away the story, but I will tell you that it includes magic, imaginary trips to lands far away, and meeting new friends who are dealing with the same fears as Oscar.
The opportunity to review this book came along at a great time, as Tallen, like Oscar, does suffer from separation anxiety. I could tell by his facial expressions as I read this story to him, the he totally connected to what Oscar was feeling. I also watched his face light up and heard him giggle with glee, as Oscar began a fun adventure, thus taking his mind off his working mother. Tallen, who is five years old, has read this book, on his own, several times since I read the story to him. In short, he loves the story, he loves the characters, and he loves the beautiful illustrations. He especially loves the travel aspect as he devotes many hours to Google Earth, pretending to visit far away places. His dream is to go to see The Great Wall of China. I think this book would be the perfect thing to read to any child with separation anxiety. But those children who do not have that problem would also really enjoy it. Plus, it gave me some great ideas as to things Tallen's sitter can do to comfort him, whenever I need to go away.
Ross, who is two years old, listened to the story intently and kept repeating each sentence that I read. She squealed with delight, when a new character was introduced. "A pig, MomMom! A Pig!" and " There's a bear, MomMom." While I am sure that she did not grasp the concept of the story. She did enjoy my reading it to her and loved the pictures.
I recommend this book to parents of preschoolers. Just be warned that you will be asked to read it many times over.
Oscar the Pig is the first book in a series being developed by Megan Calhoun. It's published by Silly StringMedia, which is a new media publishing company. Other successful ventures by Megan Calhoun include Twittermoms.com, a social networking and community site for moms. The gorgeous illustrations in the book were developed for Megan by an artist who lives in Thailand. The book is available at Amazon.com ($16-$18) or at OscarThePig.com.
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