Gulliver's Travels Coming April 19, a Guide to a Party & Giveaway

If you are a Jack Black fan or like the idea of watching old tales turned into movies, you might be interested in the upcoming release of Gulliver's Travels on April 19th.  There will be a 2-disc DVD with Gulliver's Fun Pack and a 3-disc Triple Play with Blu-Ray, DVD and digital copy.

If your kids are anxious or even yourself to learn more about Lilliput, you can download this really fun and cool Guidebook here.  There is even some fun Gulliver Fooseball to play here.  I'm definitely going to watch it and I know my kids are fans of Jack.

One of the fun things we added about a year and half ago was family fun night.  When a good movie is going to be released, we plan on tying it in with a fun night.  I'm going to have our family fun night using the Lilliputian Itsy Bitsy Party Guide.


Gulliver (Black) travels in the mystical land of Lilliput, where he is befriended by a host of Lilliputians and served up delicious treats and goodies as he helps the people defend their home. In honour of the Lilliputians generosity our step-by-step guide will assist you in creating your very own itsy bitsy-style tea party that is mini not only in food size, but budget wise as well!

First, we'll set the scene:

Gulliver is treated to a fantastic feast put on by the Lilliputians; however your party doesn’t have to be that extravagant!   Forget the large scale dining table and grab your picnic blanket, some throw pillows from the den and scatter them in the back yard for a fun and enjoyable alternative to formal dining.

Cut Catering Costs:



You don’t need to lay on a lavish spread with fine foods and top quality produce to ensure your guests have a good time. Save your coupons and have a mini purchasing spree on all the goodies that your family and friends will enjoy. Better yet, avoid shop bought and expensive treats and get back to baking. Try tempting your guests with some homemade delicious pecan pie mini muffins.

• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup all purpose flour shopping list
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 2/3 cup butter, melted (no substitutes)
• 2 eggs, beaten

• Grease and flour mini muffin pans, set aside
• In large bowl combine sugar, flour and pecan
• In separate bowl beat sugar and eggs until well blended
• Add sugar mixture to flour mixture, stir just until moistened
• Fill the treated mini pans about 2/3 full
• Bake at 350 for 20 minutes or until done
• Makes 2-1/2 doz

Theme Your Food:

Go all out with your mini theme and serve your guests some quirky finger food. Obvious choices that should be on the menu to entice kids and adults alike could include:

• Mini Burgers
• Mini Pizza’s
• Mini Popsicle’s
• Mini Babybells
• Baby quiches
• Apple Wedges
• Tangerine Segments
• Fun Sized candy Bars
• Juice box’s
• Mini Sosa Can’s
• Concorde Grapes
• Cherry Tomatoes
• Chocolate mini eggs

Party Games & Entertainment:

Gulliver clearly had a passion for the movies and even has his Lilliputian friends build him a state of the art media room so that he can sit back with his mini friends and enjoy performances of Titanic and Star Wars. Have your friends feel part of the screening by projecting Gulliver’s Travels DVD onto the biggest wall in the house. Allow your guests to feel like one of the Lilliputians by seeing Gulliver in all his gigantic glory on the big screen.

Many traditional party games can also be downsized, all you need is a ‘little’ imagination.

• Pass the parcel. Include mini candy within each layer and ensure the prize at the end is a mini surprise such as Micro Machines, Polly pocket or Lego.
• Giant Jenga: Put yourself in the Lilliputians shoes and feel teeny against the larger version of this fun for all the family game
• Operation: Dig out your favorite board game and have your guests tweez out the tiny items in this old school classic.

Party Favors:

Don’t forget to thank your guests for coming and as a further token present those with some special going home treats which still continue your itsy-bitsy theme till the end.

For the Kids:

Mini Board games: There’s a vast selection so choose from that don’t have to break the bank. Prices can range from $2-$6 and games can include:

Battleship Express, Domino’s To Go & Travel Scrabble.

Fun Size Candy:

M&M’s, Candy Sticks, Bite size Milky Bar, Reese’s Pieces & Nerds.

For the Adults:

• Mini Screwdriver Set
• Mini Pen Set
• Mini Soap Collection
• Mini Travel Kit

For more fun filled laughs and play, visit http://www.gulliversgames.com/

Don't forget to enter to win a copy here.  Giveaways ends 4/20!

Manhatten Toy PJ Tots Review & Giveaway 4/29 - Winner Closed

Congratulations to ...

tamiv said...

Email Subscriber!
geauxtami@yahoo.com

April 27, 2011 8:51 PM 

An e-mail has been sent and tamiv has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected via random.org  Thanks to all those who entered!

Easter is coming and probably if you are like me, many birthdays!  I love birthdays and trying to find the most special toys is always fun for gift giving.  I have children ranging from a young age to older as well as a grandchild.  I'm always excited in finding a new toy company for new smiles on my children's faces.  I had never heard of Manhatten Toy until I participated in this complimentary review and giveaway.   They were founded in 1979 by Francis Goldwyn who utilized non-traditional fabrics in toy designs.   The idea behind Manhatten Toy is not only playtime but also an opportunity to build cognitive, emotional and social development.

We were provided PJ Tot Bonnie Bunny and a sleeping bag for this review.  She has a soft body with a bean bag filler in the backside and a plastic face and hands.  Her head is a velvety material so you never have to worry about tangled or knotted hair.  She's the perfect size for little tot hands and the matching sleeping bag has a velcro enclosure to allow those little hands to put her to sleep or to bring her out when she wakes up.  Both the plush sleeping bag and Bonnie have cute bunny ears.  The little handle allows Bonnie to be carried but my daughter kept losing her Bonnie out of her sleeping bag because it needed to be just a bit longer.  Overall, my daughter liked her new baby doll and it's priced right at $12 for Bonnie and $8 for the matching sleeping bag.  This would make a perfect Easter present too!

There are other styles available:

 

 

I found an Easter gift for my older daughter who loves puppets and knights:

_________________________________

The Giveaway:

One reader will win their own PJ Tot and matching sleeping bag!

To Enter:

Follow my blog and visit Manhatten Toy and tell me which doll you like the most.

Extra Entries:

• Follow Manhatten Toy on Twitter
• Like Manhatten Toy on Facebook
• Subscribe to my blog
• Follow me on Twitter
• Like me on Facebook
• Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily - two entries per day) Health, Beauty, Children & Family: Manhatten Toy PJ Tots Review & Giveaway 4/29 http://bit.ly/egzNUD #win
• Blog about this giveaway - can be done once for five entries

Giveaway ends 4/29 at midnight (EST) - US only please

This is a MamaBuzz review. The product was provided by: Manhatten Toys for this review.

Lenox Beaded Tealights Review and Giveaway 4/25 - WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

Aileen said...

My favorite item is the Lenox Piggy Playtime figurines. I follow your blog on GFC. arobimom at gmail dot com

April 15, 2011 2:08 PM 

An e-mail has been sent and Aileen has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected via random.org.  Thanks to all those who entered!

There is something about quality and appearance that draws me to certain products.  Having a name brand that I trust also is appealing such as Lenox.  Lenox is a name that has history and a reputation for high quality products.  I have other Lenox products adorning my house so I was happy to participate in the Lenox project to receive a complimentary Lenox Beaded Tealight (set of 3) for review and to give one away to one of my readers!

The beautiful ivory beaded fine china comes alive once the tealights are lit softly bringing the gold-plated rims in a soft glow.   Each shape is unique and compliments just about any setting with a height of 3 1/8".  They are perfect size for a table centerpiece, a china cabinet, a bath, a fireplace mantle and so much more. They are gorgeous and also perfect for Mother's Day!

If you aren't familiar with Lenox, they have a vast array of products ranging from gifts, dining & entertainment, figurines, holiday, jewelry, home decor, wedding and a clearance section.  Look at how cute this Easter Eggcup is:

 

If you are going to order for Mother's Day, please note that the ordering deadline is approaching:

• Non-personalized items- 11pm Monday, April 25th
• Personalized Items- 11pm Monday, April 18th
• Overnight orders
• Non-personalized items- 11am Thursday, May 5th
• Personalized items- 11pm Monday, April 25th

Other benefits of Lenox includes a 100% satisfaction guarantee, breakage replacement and live help.  They are more than just fine china and really have some wonderful products to choose from.  I also really love these Kate Spade dishes:

 

One lucky reader will win their own set but if you don't win, you can still purchase it for only $19.95 here. 

To Enter:

Follow my blog and visit Lenox and tell me what your favorite item is.

Extra Entries:

• Like Lenox on Facebook
• Follow Lenox on Twitter
• Subscribe to my blog
• Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily for two entries) Health, Beauty, Children & Family: Lenox Beaded Tealights Review and Giveaway 4/25 http://bit.ly/dWXgy1 #win
• Blog about this giveaway (can be done once for five entries)
• Follow me on Twitter
• Like me on Facebook

Giveaway ends 4/25 at midnight (EST) - Open to US only please

Please note that only one win is allowed per household and Lenox reserves the right to substitute if the product is not available.



Disclosure:  I received a product for my review on behalf of BlogFriendlyPR and Lenox

Aloe Cadabra® All Natural Personal Lubricant Review

Aloe Cadabra® is the first personal lubricant that’s all natural and contains 95% organic aloe vera.  They don't contain parabins, glycerine, glycols and some of the other ingredients like other lubricants do.  The organic, all natural food grade gel provides the soothing properties for those with lubrication problems.   According to the site, you can use it on your hands or other body parts due to the moisturizing effects.  This product was reviewed by Mary who is in her 40's and was able to provide her experience. 

She liked the vitamin E properties to sooth and nourish and the aloe vera due to it's healing properties and its anti-inflammatory abilities.  It's not sticky and leaves no residue.  It's a great product especially due to the fact that it's safe and doesn't contain harsh ingredients.  She also liked the the sample of the scented French Lavender but preferred the natural aloe version.  She would recommend Aloe Cadabra®.

You can click here to read some real stories from others who have benefited from Aloe Cadabra®.

Other Pro's:

• Free shipping
• Money back guarantee
• Discreet packaging
• pH balanced for a woman's body
• Anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-fungal

Want to stay up to date, follow on Twitter or Facebook.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com created by WebBizIdeas a Minneapolis SEO and Web Design firm. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Hormel® Compleats® Kids Microwave Meals Review

I have picky kids which I know is not uncommon so many others know how hard it is trying to find something their kids will eat that is quick and easy.  Hormel® Compleats® Kids Microwave Meals provides that but is also food that I find my children will eat and enjoy without a hassle.  These great and tasty new meals by Hormel come in four varieties:

• Spaghetti and Meatballs
• Pasta and Chicken
• Beef Ravioli
• Macaroni and Beef

My kids just tried the Spaghetti and Meatballs and the Macaroni and Beef meals and ate every bite.  They loved them and all I heard was, "Mmmmmm!"  I'm happy to find a new meal choice for those times when we're short on time and need something quick and only takes 45~ seconds to cook in the microwave and they are ready to go.  The top cover also peeled away a lot easier than some microwave meals which I like as I don't want to have to shield my clothes from the splatter.  The box is even appealing to children and each box comes with a sticker.  There are even online games for the kids to play.  These would be perfect meals for the road as well since they are compact, microwavable and no mess as you heat, eat and pitch.  I wished I had these before we went on our road trip through multiple states.

Here's the proof:

I didn't get to try the Hormel® Compleats® Kids Macaroni and Beef as my seven year old must have inhaled it but I did get to try the Hormel® Compleats® Kids Spaghetti and Meatballs and it had an interesting taste.  Different from traditional easy to make spaghetti meals and it reminded me of a barbecue sauce taste.  I could be wrong but that's what I thought of when I tried it.  I liked it but I think my three old liked it more.

Disclosure:  The products reviewed in this post were provided by Hormel® Compleats® Kids Microwave Meals.  As a member of SheSpeaks, I was provided the opportunity to review.

See ‘African Cats’ & Help Save the Savanna

Just in time for Earth Day 2011, the third release under the Disneynature label, comes a program for the entire family called African Cats.  This real-life movie showing love, humor and determination from the kings of the African savanna starring Mara, a cute little lion cub, Sita, a fearless cheetah and a single mom to five and Fang who has to protect the brood from a rival lion.  My girls will love this and I can't wait to take them to something that is wholesome, entertaining and cute.  We love Disney so much and have already been there twice last year and take our next trip in May.

What's even nicer about this new release is during the film's opening week (April 22 - 28),  a portion of the proceeds from that week's ticket sales will be donated to the African Wildlife Foundation through Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund.  Well known actor, Samuel L. Jackson provides the narration.  You can also download this fun educational guide here.

AFRICAN CATS hits theaters everywhere on Earth Day, April 22nd!

Like AFRICAN CATS on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/Disneynature.

Gulliver's Travels Giveaway 4/20 - US/Canada WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

A new winner has been chosen as Jakiesmom kindly declined since she already won a copy.  Our new winner is:

agatewood1 said...

I follow you @shuggysmommy on twitter
agatewood1@ymail.com

April 11, 2011 4:01 PM 

An e-mail has been sent!

jakiesmom said...

entered lenox 3

April 14, 2011 8:17 PM 

An e-mail has been sent and she has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected via random.org.  Thanks to all those who entered!

Ready to set sail with Gulliver's Travels?  Jack Black (Kung Fu Panda) delivers another course of humor in this adventure-comedy based on the classic tale that some of us remember quite well while growing up.  Jack as Gulliver is a mailroom clerk destined to impress his pretty newspaper travel editor played by Amanda Peet.  When his mission to impress lands him on a trip to Bermuda which becomes derailed by a shipwreck, he ends up in Lilliput as a giant.  Gulliver's tall tales impresses his new friends at first until he puts himself over them and then he's forced to find a way to make it all right again.  Gulliver's Travels also has Emily Blunt who is one of my favorites from watching other movies she's been in.

To get some really cool facts, check out Frommer's Lilliput Travel Guide.  It's really an interesting and fun take on Frommer's other travel guides and will give your kids some fun for their imagination.

__________________________

The Giveaway:

One winner will receive their own copy of Gulliver's Travels

To Enter:

Follow my blog and and answer this question:

What is the name of the land that Gulliver finds himself shipwrecked on?

1. Lillipad
2. Lilliput
3. Lillipaw

Extra Entries:

• Follow Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment on Twitter
• Subscribe to my blog
• Follow me on Twitter
• Like me on Facebook
• Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily for two entries)
• Blog about this giveaway (can be done twice at least 7 days apart for five entries)
• Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries)

Giveaway ends 4/20 at midnight (EST) - Open to US and Canada

That Mama is a Grouch and That Baby Woke Me Up, AGAIN! Book Reviews

____________________________________

That Mama is a Grouch by Sherry Ellis is a delightful book that surprised me at first as I thought it was written by my children about me!  I suppose many moms can relate to this cute story but it has a great message for children to learn and it shows them that it's not just their mom that might appear to be grouchy from time to time.  I thoroughly enjoyed reading it to them and liked watching their reaction when they realized what they could do to help their mom more.  The situations that children could relate to are common enough in that it hits home with them.  They are able to understand that if they create the same situations such as making messes without cleaning up, their mom won't be too happy and for a good
reason.


The finale of having the discussion about feelings was brilliant in helping children understand where us moms (or dads) are coming from.  It might even be an eye opener to some that explaining feelings and emotions might just go further than yelling.  I loved the book and can't wait to see more from Ms. Ellis.  The illustrations by Don Berry were eye catching and "cutsy" to catch the little one's attention.  We're getting close to moving to a new state but I'm not packing this one away until the very end.

I would recommend this book to any family as it has a great lesson to learn.

___________________________________________

That Baby Woke Me Up, AGAIN! also written by Sherry Ellis and illustrated by Don Berry is another wonderful book introducing a chapter from life to our children.  Many children understand how a new addition can affect their lives but I think the most memorable one for me was being waken up through the night.  The story of interrupted dreams, frustrations and missed sleep is narrated by a big sister and how she tries to cope.  It's a great book to show that the sleepless nights are just temporary and that it's a normal situation when a child has a new brother or sister.

I also enjoyed how Ms. Ellis used rhyming versus as for me, it's catchy and my children tend to be more entertained.   We have a baby in our house but they are lucky in that they don't have their sleep interrupted.  If they had, this would have been the ideal book to show they aren't alone and that it's just a passing phase.

Great places to stay up to date with Ms. Ellis:

• Click here to learn more about Ms. Ellis.
• Click here for her blog.
• Click here for her Facebook page.
• Click here for her Facebook fan page.
• Click here for her Twitter page.

That Baby Woke Me Up, AGAIN and That Mama is a Grouch can be purchased at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Baker and Taylor, Ingram, Books a Million and Blue Manatee Bookstore (Cincinati).

I would recommend this book especially to parents with new babies and older siblings.


*Disclosure:  These reviews of Sherry Ellis' books are part of the Stories For Children World of Ink book tour.  I received complimentary copies for the purposes of this review.

bareMinerals Purely Nourishing Moisturizer & Deep Cleansing Foam (2 Product) Giveaway 3/30

My cross country road trip to locate a new home for our next Army move threw me off as I picked this winner from the hotel and neglected to pick the second winner.  An e-mail has been sent to Gina P. and she has 48 hours to respond.

 Gina P said...

Like you on FB
Gina P
@ ginasweepsit
Ginasweepsit at aol dot com

March 30, 2011 1:20 PM

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

CindyWindy2003 said...

http://twitter.com/#!/carafferty/status/52778239088791552
carawling(at)hotmail(Dot)com

March 29, 2011 1:06 PM 

An e-mail has been sent to Cindy and she has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected via random.org.  Thanks to all those who entered!

Looking for that one product or two that delivers?   I am always on the hunt to find a great cleanser and moisturizer that gives me what I need without breaking out my face or making my complexion look shiny or red.  Bare Escentuals is a company led by a brilliant woman who not only provides products to look better but I truly believe she has that special extra detail to her customers.  She's always looking out for us women in a manner that shows she listens to what we want and delivers.  Now Bare Escentuals introduces bareMinerals Skincare as a "transformative new way of caring for your skin that's simple, super-effective and incredibly easy to use."



The bareMinerals Purely Nourishing Moisturizer for Combination Skin comes in a 1.7 ounce bottle and hydrates skin with a lightweight moisturizer that is not sticky or greasy.  Since it is lightweight, it doesn't leave a heavy feel and has a really light fragrance.  It's formulated with their 100% pure RareMinerals ActiveSoil Complex that has a unique electrolyte delivery system.  The potent antioxidants helps to protect against the wind, sun and other environmental stressors.

They report 'extraordinary skin-renewing benefits including faster cell turnover and proven brighter, smoother, younger-looking skin.'

• 100% of users felt their skin texture was noticeably improved
• 98% saw an improvement in firmness and elasticity
• 90% saw a reduction in the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles

*Based on independent study

Use twice daily after cleansing both morning and evening for best results.  I have not used the product long enough to see results yet but I do like how it feels on my skin and that the fragrance is light and non-greasy.   Priced at $28 it's a reasonable price for the size of bottle.  To see a list of ingredients, click here and it has great reviews on the site.



bareMinerals Deep Cleansing Foam is also powered by their 100% pure RareMinerals ActiveSoil Complex and provides deep cleansing by lifting impurities and leaving skin feeling soft.  It comes in a 4.2 ounce bottle with a light fragrance and delivers a rich lather.  In an independent study, women said:

• 84% saw an overall improvement in the skin's appearance
• 90% thought their skin was softer and smoother
• 72% felt their pores looked smaller and more refined

It's easy to use with a small pearl size amount in the palm of your hands.  Massage in with luke warm water and work into a rich foam.  Using circular motions, it's non-abrasive and leaves your skin feeling clean.  To be used both morning and night.  I have not had the product long enough to experience all the benefits yet but I do feel my skin is softer, smoother and feels great after using both the Moisturizer and Cleanser.  My daughter has been using the Moisturizer and has enjoyed the effects.  She has sensitive skin and many products cause breakouts but the Moisturizer has not.  

You can see the ingredients and view additional reviews here.

_________________________________________________

The Giveaway:

Two readers will win a bottle of bareMinerals Purely Nourishing Moisturizer and bareMinerals Deep Cleansing Foam!

To Enter:

Follow my blog and tell me if you have tried and/or currently use bareMinerals or BareEscentuals.

Extra Entries:

• Like BareEscentuals on Facebook
• Follow BareEscentuals on Twitter
• Subscribe to my blog
• Follow me on Twitter
• Like me on Facebook
• Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily for two entries)
• Blog about this giveaway (can be done twice at least 7 days apart for five entries)
• Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries)

Giveaway ends 3/30 at midnight (EST) - Winners will have 24 hours to claim products via e-mail.  

US Only Please

I received complimentary bottles of bareMinerals Purely Nourishing Moisturizer and Deep Cleansing Foam for this review and giveaway.

Blogmania April 2011 - Sponsors Needed

Ready for Blogmania 2011?  It's running April 9 - 11th with many blogs participating and thousands of dollars of giveaways.  There is new management for Blogmania 2011 with a team of dedicated people ready to promote your product and/or business with the power of bloggers using not only their blogs but also social media such as Facebook and Twitter.

The past year was a success and I heard from many sponsors that the hits and sales to their sites went up with the exposure of Blogmania.

Want to participate?   Send me an e-mail at youthfultips@yahoo.com.

Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion Review and Giveaway 4/11 (US/Canada) - Winner Closed

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

Kristyn said...

Daily tweet

http://twitter.com/#!/KristynAnn77/status/53633841901998080

Kristyn_Ann(at)hotmail.com

March 31, 2011 9:45 PM 

An e-mail has been sent and Kristyn has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected via random.org. Thanks to all those who entered!

With all the news horror stories of the various products recalled due to hazardous materials within the product, I'm downright scared to buy products especially for my children.  I'm taking more of a stance of only purchasing those products that are deemed "natural."  This is why I'm a new fan of Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion.  It has a new proprietary blend of "super" humectants six times more effective than the industry standard of glycerin.  In case you were wondering, humectants is an ingredient that draws moisture from the air and allows moisture to be maintained within the body.


The ingredients in Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion are a blend of natural ingredients coupled with recent scientific advances to hydrate and heal without leaving a greasy residue, annoying fragrances or other toxic chemicals.  There is nothing worse than a lotion that leaves a lingering unpleasant odor.  I do like how it feels on application and it doesn't leave a residue like many other lotions do.  The fact there is nothing toxic is the most important when it comes to my children.  Skin MD Natural and Skin MD Natural + SPF 15 are manufactured in the US using 100% solar power, free of animal products and testing.  Not seeing the "made in China" statement assures me I'm getting a quality product that is manufactured by a company that cares about animals and the environment.

My three old who is has chronic allergies and asthma also has dry skin.  Skin MD treats her dry skins and knees and restored them to the natural smooth skin she was suppose to have.  She had no reactions to the lotion.  I also used it for my arms, hands and legs and said bye-bye to my alligator leg skin at last!  The lotion is wonderful and I do recommend it mostly because of the natural ingredients as for me, that is vital.

Other benefits:

• 100% money back guarantee
• Order online
• Multiple bottle discount
• Samples to purchase to try before you buy
• Treats multiple skin problems and conditions
• Lists all ingredients online so no guessing, MSDS sheet, testing and more

Overall, I would recommend Skin MD Natural as it's a great safe product and priced well.

__________________________________________

The Giveaway:

One full size, four ounce bottle of Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion.

To Enter:

Follow my blog and visit http://www.skinmdnatural.com and tell me something you learned about skin care, shielding lotions or natural ingredients.

Extra Entries:

• Like Skin MD Natural on Facebook
• Follow Skin MD Natural on Twitter
• Subscribe to my blog
• Follow me on Twitter
• Like me on Facebook
• Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily for two entries)
• Blog about this giveaway (can be done twice at least 7 days apart for five entries)
• Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries)

Giveaway ends 4/11 at midnight (EST) - Winner chosen via random.org

Open to US and Canada

*Disclosure:  I did receive a complimentary product.  I was not required to write a post but chose to do so.

Why Customer Service is Important

I buy a lot of stuff both inexpensive and expensive.  There are no limits to what I buy, within reason, for myself and family.  If I believe in a product, I will be loyal.  If I like a product, I will go out of my way to spread the word.  I not only have the ability to inform others via my offline circle but also my online circle by means of my blog, Facebook and Twitter.  When I am happy with a product, I let others know.  When I don't, unless it's a sponsored review, I don't say much.  However, when I do get bad service for a product that I paid for and try with good faith to get assistance, I will make noise.

Businesses should understand what they can get from being good customer service oriented partners with their consumers.  Not only do they have a chance to influence the consumer's own purchasing choices but those of others.  For those consumers who do go outside the realm of their offline circle, this can equate to free advertising and unsolicited product review endorsements.  For me, that means a lot when I research a product and see a person's opinion.  Take Huggies for example.  Before I became a Mom's Ambassador, I wrote and preached how much I loved Huggies products.  I went out of my way to endorse this product in an unsolicited manner.  I received no compensation or product for my posts because I am brand loyal and I don't mind spreading the word on a good product.  This holds true for Arnold Bread as I love that product too.

On the flip side are the bad customer service experiences I have received.  I just spent $150 (discounted price from a sample site) on an expensive trike for my grand daughter.  The company did not know that I purchased their product via a sample site and for all they knew, I paid full price which was over $200.  Upon receipt from The Foundary (great sample site by the way), we started to build the trike and immediately were hit with four missing KEY parts.  The four screw-type parts were missed in the QA/QC process of this particular company.  When I contacted the company for replacement parts, I was told they needed:

1. Digital picture of the problem
2. Digital picture of the receipt
3. Trike model number and color (fair enough)
4. Number stamped on the bottom of the box
5. Name and address

Fair enough on items 3 and 5 but a year ago, when I ordered from Little Tykes and received my package, the booth seating on the diner was identical to the left side so I needed a right side.  What did Little Tykes do when I phoned them?  They apologized and sent me the right piece immediately with no questions asked and no requirements.  

After repeat e-mails with the customer service agent, I still sit, two weeks later with an unusable expensive trike because she had to order the part and informed me she would notify me when it ships.  What???  This is the worse customer service I have experienced in some time and I was all ready to tell the "world" about this super cool new trike I bought for my grand daughter on my blog, on other mommy sites, on Facebook and Twitter.

What ashame that businesses don't realize the power of what good customer service can bring for free if they do the right thing.

The Millionaire Matchmaker Answers Your Questions on Love & Friendship

Have you heard of the movie Something Borrowed by Warner Brothers?  It stars Kate Hudson who I enjoy watching and Gennifer Goodwin along with others.  Rachel, played by Goodwin, in a single attorney at a top notch law office and is still single.  Her best friend, Darcy played by Kate Hudson, is engaged and reminds Rachel often of her single status.  Then one night while celebrating her 30th birthday, Rachel unexpectedly ends up in bed with her old law school crush who just happens to be Darcy's fiance.  You might be able to see the plot now with the thin line of friendship and love as the story continues.

Patti Stanger, The Millionaire Matchmaker, dishes out relationship advice to the characters in the movie.   She is also offering answers to your questions on love and relationships.  If you have questions, you can leave me a comment, send me a message on FB or on Twitter and if chosen, your question and answer will be part of a video from Patti.

Purple Day March 26: Wear Purple and Show Your Support

Tomorrow is Purple Day which is a day to raise awareness and support all the people with epilepsy both alive and passed on.  Purple Day is significant in that people are asked to wear purple .. isn't that easy?  There are many events going on throughout the world in celebration of this day.  Epilepsy is a disease that afflicts more people than you probably realize.  I never knew until my then five year old was diagnosed with it two, almost three year's ago.  It's a terrifying disease in that one has seizures which can be controlled and in many cases, not controlled.  Epilepsy even kills which is an even lesser known fact about it.  Seizures are the culprit but they really don't know why it happens but SUDEP is real and many children and adults have lost their lives to it.

This Saturday, please join in and wear purple and tell someone about why you are wearing purple.  My seven year old daughter, founder of Angels4Epilepsy.org, is delivering purple Pillow Pets to the local children's hospitals for any child currently hospitalized but mostly to support any child enduring testing or other procedure related to epilepsy.  We are also delivering small bags to drop off at the Ronald McDonald House for parents who are enduring a hospitalized child.

Check out the Anita Kaufman Foundation and learn more about epilepsy and Purple Day.

Tyndale's New Book Club eNewsletter & 30 Day Giveaway

Tyndale House Publishing is having 30 days of giveaway and it's easy to enter some really great books.  As part of Tyndale's new book club eNewsletter, you can click here and check out the latest giveaways and enter.  You can enter one, two or all that you want.

  

Today's books are:

1. Fireflies in December
2. The Boy Who Came Back from Heaven

It's a great way to learn about new books, win some great books and make some friends when you spread the word about the giveaway and newsletter.  

You can become a fan of Tyndale on Facebook here.

Smarty Had a Party Plastic Square Tumblers Review

When you spend time organizing and planning a party, you want every detail to be perfect.  Everything down to the napkins and plastic cups have to be part of the theme and sometimes, the cups can be difficult to match a theme.  I was having the same problem organizing my daughter's Taylor Swift theme until I received a complimentary set of Smarty Had a Party Plastic Tumblers and I think they are perfect!   Smarty Had a Party is an online store full of elegant disposable dinnerware.

As you can see by the picture above, they look elegant as they are but with a little imagination, they can serve another purpose by matching a hard to get theme such as a Taylor party.  I still have to work on my cutting a perfect oval but this is how it looks and keep in mind, it's my first attempt:

I love how great the sticker paper looks on the plastic tumbler.  The plastic tumbler has a nice etched design on two sides adding to the appeal and appearance.  They are a hard plastic and not flimsy or easy to crush.  They probably could be washed and reused at least for one more party if you like to stay frugal.  Overall, I think they are a great addition to a party or get together and I'll definitely be using them for all my future parties.

They come with 14 in a package for the Elegant Disposable 9 Ounce Square Rock Glasses and 12  for the Elegant Disposable 12 Ounce Square Tumblers.  I received both packages and can't wait to use them for our parties.  Smarty Had a Party has an array of products for your parties as well as recipes, an event gallery, worse dates and best marriage proposals.  

There are so many products to choose from.  Here is just a sample:

• Chair Covers
• Cocktail Glasses
• Dishes
• Napkin Rings
• Table Linens

Other great benefits to Smarty Had a Party include:

• Biodegradable products
• Search by color - makes themes so much easier
• Search by brand
• Free shipping on orders over $275 in 48 US states
• Blog to get new ideas and more information
• Return policy
• BBB Accreditation 

Overall, I would recommend Smarty Had a Party for your party needs.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure. I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

POST WITH A PURPOSE – Support Save The Children’s Effort In Japan

Feeling that desire or need to help out Japan but afraid of getting ripped off?  I know many are and I know that the people of Japan need our help more than ever.  Over at Party Blueprints, they have a new post where you can join Social Media Moms and Partyblueprints to raise awareness and money to support the work being done by "Save the Children" in Japan.

All it takes is a click and you can donate to help.  Click here to read all the details and help.

Facts taken from Partyblueprints site:

Japan Disaster Facts

• An estimated 100,000 children have been displaced from their homes
• Japan facing three disasters: earthquake, tsunami and nuclear radiation
• Japan is on high nuclear alert for two nuclear reactors in Fukushima
• Many tsunami-affected areas are still cut off from relief
• More than 465 roads, 43 bridges and seven railways washed away
• More than 380,000 people evacuated across the country

Due to the fact the quake and tsunami hit during the day, most children were in school or nurseries separated from their parents – fears are that many will be orphaned.

The triple horror of Japan’s earthquake, tsunami, and potential nuclear disaster has raised concerns over the long-term impact on children, some of whom are already displaying signs of trauma, from screaming nightmares to silent withdrawal.

The potential for lasting trauma is compounded by the unusual multiple nature of the event: a massive 9.0 earthquake, a devastating tsunami and a nationwide scare over a possible meltdown at a nuclear plant.

Experts say the scale of the loss and disruption for some children would have been almost inconceivable: homes destroyed, friends disappeared, one or both parents maybe killed, or siblings and other close family members missing.

Initial efforts to help them come to terms with the tragedy can only be made in extremely stressful circumstances, with families packed into ill-equipped evacuation shelters, suffering bitterly cold nights and frequent terrifying aftershocks.

“We found children in desperate conditions, huddling around kerosene lamps and wrapped in blankets,” said Save the Children spokesman Ian Woolverton, who visited a number of evacuation centres in the coastal regions of northeast Japan that bore the brunt of the March 11 tsunami.

“They told me about their anxieties, especially their fears about radiation,” Woolverton said, adding that several youngsters had mentioned the atomic attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which they know from school books.

Parents, many traumatised themselves, have struggled to keep their own fears in check as they try to soothe their children and provide them with some sense of normality and security.

Atsushi Takahashi, 36, said his two-year-old son Haruto has been terrified by the constant, sometimes powerful aftershocks.

“He’s been very scared, crying out ‘the house is shaking. I don’t like the house’,” Takahashi said, holding his son as he waited in a queue for a truck bringing fresh water to his neighbourhood.

“I always tell him that everything is okay and I hug him,” Takahashi said. “I think we just have to let time heal the wounds.”

Many children have had trouble sleeping, woken repeatedly in the night by bad dreams, while others have mentally shut down, shunning any company but their parents, whom they refuse to let out of their sight for even a moment.

Woolverton said the priority for Save The Children was to set up “child-friendly spaces” where children of a similar age could interact and start to play together again.

“I know from years of experience that if children play, it can ward off the chance of major long-term emotional trauma,” he said.

“The idea is also to relieve the stress on parents and to give them a break from childcare duties as they register for emergency assistance, try to find food, locate friends and family members and, in the longer term, jobs and housing.”