Lionsgate Home Entertainment and top educational toy maker LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. have teamed up once again to release LeapFrog: The Amazing Alphabet Amusement Park and LeapFrog: Numbers Ahoy this January.
Parents can expect a great combination of education and fun for kids with these new LeapFrog DVDs. I like that they include beneficial bonus features that reinforce the kids' learning such as a parental curriculum, sing-along songs and more. The releases also introduce Scout, Tad and Lily's pet dog who communicates only through barking, yipping and using body signals. This animated character is wacky and mischievous and provides a chock-full of entertainment throughout each of the episodes.
I can be picky with what my kids watch on tv but I know I can never go wrong with LeapFrog DVDs. We owned a few of the earlier LeapFrog DVD titles and my kids have really enjoyed them. I love that LeapFrog really emphasizes on strong educational content in each of their episodes, the characters are all wholesome and lively and the songs are generally fun and catchy. Jaden, my three year old, is now really into the alphabets and really enjoys watching the LeapFrog: The Amazing Alphabet Amusement Park. On the other hand, my five year old Gabriel thoroughly enjoyed LeapFrog: Numbers Ahoy. Expect a lot of giggles, dance and sing alongs from your kids with these fun to watch, excellent educational DVDs from LeapFrog!
Synopses:
LeapFrog: The Amazing Alphabet Amusement Park
LeapFrog The Amazing Alphabet Amusement Park (Ages 3-6): When their firefly friend, Edison, takes Tad, Lily and Scout to the place of his childhood dreams, the gang is shocked to discover that Alistair Alphabelly's Amazing Amusement Park is... closed! To make matters worse, Edison has gotten himself stuck atop the Fantastical Ferris Wheel. The only way to save him is to turn on the rides in the park with the magic of the alphabet. Now the children must learn all of the letters, big and small, to save their friend, save the day and perhaps even meet the rhyme master himself, Alistair Alphabelly!
LeapFrog: Numbers Ahoy
LeapFrog: Numbers Ahoy (Ages 3-6): Tad and Lily need a little number sense to help them get through a complicated game. So their magical firefly friend, Edison, takes them on a fantastical journey under the sea! When a pirate mistakenly captures their cute puppy pal Scout, they must use their new understanding of counting, grouping and estimating to rescue him. Join them as they navigate the deep and face foes such as sharks, crab henchmen—even Pirate Pythagoras himself—and begin to see numbers in a whole new way!
Both LeapFrog: The Amazing Alphabet Amusement Park and LeapFrog: Numbers Ahoy are now available at Amazon and at leading book retailers for the suggested retail price of $14.98 each.
*WIN IT!
One of you, lucky Hip Mama's Place reader, will win both LeapFrog DVD titles: The Amazing Alphabet Amusement Park and Numbers Ahoy, courtesy of LeapFrog and Lionsgate Home Entertainment!
To enter the contest, leave me a comment by February 14th, 2011 at 12MN, EST. THIS IS YOUR MANDATORY CONTEST ENTRY.
This contest is open to U.S. ADDRESSES ONLY. Please leave your email address (if you don't have a blog). I will choose one (1) winner using Random.org and will be announced as a comment on this post. The winner will also be notified by email and/or through a comment on their blog (if available).
*IMPORTANT: PLEASE DO NOT CROSS-PROMOTE ANY OTHER GIVEAWAYS HAPPENING ON ANY OTHER BLOG OR WEBSITE. ANY SPAM COMMENTS WILL BE DELETED IMMEDIATELY.
*EXTRA ENTRIES for many chances to win!
Your comment is your one required/mandatory entry. To earn extra entries, just do the following:
1. Tweet this giveaway on Twitter however you like, but include this URL page and hash tags at the end of your comment: http://bit.ly/e4fmsR #Leapfrog #giveaways (5 EXTRA ENTRIES)
Example:
I want to win the LeapFrog DVD giveaways @hipmamasplace! http://bit.ly/e4fmsR #Leapfrog #giveaways
2. Like or Become a fan of LeapFrog on Facebook and post on their wall that Hip Mama's Place sent you (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
3. Follow LeapFrog on Twitter (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
4. Like or Become a fan of Hip Mama's Place on Facebook and post a comment on our wall and tell me why you like visiting Hip Mama's Place or reply to the latest post on our wall (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
5. Follow Hip Mama's Place on Twitter (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
6. Follow me or friend me on Google Friend Connect (link is under "Our Hip Followers" on the left side bar) (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
7. Join the Hip Mama's Place Community and EARN 2 EXTRA ENTRIES. You can earn 3 more extra entries by creating a new post or join in on the conversations on the "Forum" section of our mom community. (5 TOTAL EXTRA ENTRIES)
8. Grab one of Hip Mama's Place's buttons under the "Grab Our Fabulous Buttons" on the right hand side bar on our main page and paste it on an HTML page on your blog sidebar. (5 EXTRA ENTRIES)
Remember, the more entries you have, the greater chances of winning! Please make sure to leave a separate comment for each thing you do for your extra entries (i.e. your name on HMP Community name, Google Friend Connect, blog posts, Facebook name, Twitter name and post links, etcetera). Good luck!
*Hip Mama's Place Disclosure: “My reviews and opinions are 100% my own. LeapFrog provided me the LeapFrog DVD titles mentioned in this post to facilitate this review and giveaway".
About the Author: Jocelyn Cañasa-Brown is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Hip Mama's Place was nominated for Parents' Picks 2010 Best Parenting Blogs and named one of the Highest Rated Blogs and Sites on Nickelodeon ParentsConnect for the Washington, DC area. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
** ~~~~~~ CURRENT REVIEWS, DEALS, FREEBIES AND GIVEAWAYS ~~~~~~ **
Monday, January 31, 2011
LeapFrog: The Amazing Alphabet Amusement Park and LeapFrog: Numbers Ahoy DVD Review and Giveaway
Sunday, January 30, 2011
19 Reader-Approved Concealers
These concealers are the secret beauty weapon when it comes to having flawless-looking skin
This is a TotalBeauty.com face makeup article
To help you find your new best kept makeup secret "friend," we rounded up the highest rated concealers as reviewed by Total Beauty readers.
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8
"This concealer is amazing, smooth, creamy and will make you look absolutely flawless."
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.5
Despite having a thick texture, readers say, "it has the power of a concealer, with the 'spreadability' of a moisturizer."
No. 17: Bare Escentuals bareMinerals SPF 20 Multi-Tasking Concealer, $18
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.7
"Works great as a concealer for blemishes, redness and dark under eye circles" and it "won't clog pores or make blemishes worse."
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Nine Benefits of Music Education for Kids
*The following is a guest article contributed by Laura Yeh, performer and music educator for children
Kids who learn to play a musical instrument gain an outlet for their creativity that can bring them a joy for a lifetime. They also reap tangible benefits that can help them as students and throughout their lives.
Through musical instruction, children learn discipline, patience, problem-solving skills, confidence and responsibility, to name just a few benefits. Let’s take a closer look at some of the advantages your child can gain from learning to play an instrument:
Precision, discipline and focus: In addition to fostering the development of discipline, music enables children to learn precision and accuracy. I know of no other form of education that can help students learn this kind of focused precision at a young age. Students learn to pay close attention to exactly how a particular skill looks, sounds and feels. The brain learns to notice more detail.
Patience: Students gain the valuable quality of patience, especially with a more complex instrument like violin or piano. Each skill requires hundreds of repetitions to become easy. Students must have the confidence that they will get it if they just keep practicing.
Problem-solving and persistence: Practicing is always about problem-solving. Why do I make a mistake here or why does it sound squeaky? What solutions can I come up with to fix the mistake? Good practice techniques require creativity and patience to identify and solve the problem. From this, students learn persistence. No passage is impossible to play correctly. It’s
just a matter of finding the right way of practicing.
Fine motor skills: I have seen the development of fine motor skills in my violin students, particularly the ability to isolate certain muscles and joints as well as the independent use of each finger.
Healthy habits: Learning a musical instrument requires good posture and the ability to keep muscles relaxed even while doing something challenging. Students also strengthen muscles and gain flexibility, both of which contribute to overall health.
Memory: As music is memorized, the capabilities of memory are greatly enhanced. Education then becomes a matter of drawing conclusions and making connections between concepts rather than an exertion to merely memorize all the material. The younger a child can begin learning music, the greater the benefit for their short- and long-term memory.
Creativity: The wonderful thing about music is that, although it requires precision and accuracy in terms of rhythms, notes and playing technique, when it comes to interpretation, there is so much room for individuality. The skill of improvisation allows even greater creativity. Students learn to think for themselves and make their own artistic choices rather than being told how to do everything.
Cultural Understanding: Students are introduced to music of different cultures and from different times. This exposure is useful for kids to learn about and appreciate the differences and individuality of all people.
Confidence and work ethic: Students learn that if they apply themselves intelligently, efficiently, and persistently they achieve the desired result.
So what is the best way to introduce children to music? Many children with encouragement can learn challenging instruments such as the violin and piano. But not all families can invest the money and time required for instruments and lessons. A wonderful instrument that I have found to help spur children’s interest in music is the ocarina.
These ancient little wind instruments were played by the Mayans, Aztecs and Incas of South and Central America and in ancient India and China. The ocarina was well known in the United States in the early part of the last century after being issued to troops in the two World Wars.
In 2004, I bought several ocarinas while on a visit to Taiwan. I was impressed by how easy the ocarina was to pick up and play. So we began teaching it at the St. Louis School of Music. It turned out to be a perfect fit.
The ocarina is pocket-sized, fun and intriguing to play. It’s portable, economical and has a pleasant sound even in the hands of a beginner. It offers a great way to teach children the lifelong joys of music and introduce them to skills that will help them excel in everything they do.
About the Author: Laura Yeh is a performer and music educator trained in the Suzuki methods of instruction who teaches violin and ocarina at the St. Louis School of Music to children as young as 3 and adults. Laura and her husband Dennis have collaborated with ocarina makers around the world to produce new models of the ocarina. They have designed and produced many unique and innovative ocarinas sold by STL Ocarina at www.stlocarina.com
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Donsuemor: Delightful Bakery Treats, Plus a Delicious Giveaway!
I love baked goodies: cakes, cookies, pies- you name it. And then there are the irresistible madeleines- those soft, buttery little French cakes that just melt in your mouth... mmmm.. yummm!
Hmmm, now that we're talking about delicious baked goodies, I'm really excited to cover Donsuemor Cookies (if you haven't already heard of this brand before).
About Donsuemor
Founded and created by Don and Susie Morris (Don-Sue-Mor), Donsuemor started with a French recipe and introduced madeleines to the Berkeley, California "gourmet ghetto" community in 1976. Together, Don and Susie created a treat unlike any other—a moist little cake with a fresh, unforgettable taste. Today, Donsuemor continues their tradition of baking delicious bakery treats that bring delight to everyday life.
If you haven't been to the Donsuemor shop online yet, check out their madeleines, French almond cakes and cute cakes (petit fours) which all come in many different flavors!
I had the pleasure to try the heart-shaped madeleines from Donsuemor- chocolate and vanilla cookies that are hand-dipped in white chocolate and chocolate coating.
Wow, I can say that I'm truly impressed! Donsuemor madeleines are definitely more moist and tastier than any other madeleines I've had before. My husband had commented that he could tell from the very first bite that Donsuemor takes their baked goodies very seriously. I couldn't agree more! These are not your ordinary little madeleines. These are elegant, rich-tasting madeleines you will instantly love!
Looking to bring delight to your someone special this Valentine's Day? Hosting an upcoming party? Go shop Donsuemor online for their many varieties of tasty, elegantly baked treats available in variety packs and party trays. I'm definitely getting a few of the Valentine Special boxes for my special people. Wow! I love that they're so affordable too- starts at only $15 per box!
*GIVEAWAY!
Donsuemor is giving away one (1) Variety Heart-Shaped Sample Gift Box (valued @ $15), to one of you, lucky Hip Mama's Place reader!
To enter the contest, tweet this giveaway on Twitter with a direct link to this giveaway (http://bit.ly/fJOQxx) and @hipmamasplace then leave a comment to this post with a link to your tweet by February 3rd, 2011 at 12MN, EST. THIS IS YOUR MANDATORY CONTEST ENTRY.
Example of a tweet:
I want to win the Donsuemor heart shaped cookie giveaway @hipmamasplace! http://bit.ly/fJOQxx
How to find the link to your tweet:
Just click the time link right below your tweet post (i.e. "15 seconds ago") and it will take you to its own page link. That's the link you will need to include in your mandatory comment entry for this contest.
This contest is open to U.S. AND CANADA ADDRESSES ONLY. Please leave your email address (if you don't have a blog). I will choose one (1) winner using Random.org and will be announced as a comment on this post. The winner will also be notified by email and/or through a comment on their blog (if available).
*IMPORTANT: PLEASE DO NOT CROSS-PROMOTE ANY OTHER GIVEAWAYS HAPPENING ON ANY OTHER BLOG OR WEBSITE. ANY SPAM COMMENTS WILL BE DELETED IMMEDIATELY.
*EXTRA ENTRIES for many chances to win!
Your comment is your one required/mandatory entry. To earn extra entries, just do the following:
1. Like or Become a fan of Donsuemor on Facebook and post on their wall that Hip Mama's Place sent you (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
2. Follow Donsuemor on Twitter (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
3. Like or Become a fan of Hip Mama's Place on Facebook and post a comment on our wall and tell me why you like visiting Hip Mama's Place or reply to the latest post on our wall (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
4. Follow Hip Mama's Place on Twitter (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
5. Follow me or friend me on Google Friend Connect (link is under "Our Hip Followers" on the left side bar) (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
Remember, the more entries you have, the greater chances of winning! Please make sure to leave a separate comment for each thing you do for your extra entries (i.e. your name on HMP Community name, Google Friend Connect, blog posts, Facebook name, Twitter name and post links, etcetera). Good luck!
*Hip Mama's Place Disclosure: “My reviews and opinions are 100% my own. Donsuemor provided me the necessary products to facilitate this review and giveaway".
About the Author: Jocelyn Cañasa-Brown is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Hip Mama's Place was nominated for Parents' Picks 2010 Best Parenting Blogs and named one of the Highest Rated Blogs and Sites on Nickelodeon ParentsConnect for the Washington, DC area. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Soft Clothing Launches NEW Limited Edition Brooklyn Artists Tee Series
In an effort to support local Brooklyn-based artists' work, Soft Clothing is set to launch a Limited Edition Brooklyn Artists Tee Series on February 14, 2011. A portion of profits from the sale of these long sleeve printed tees will go toward supporting FREE ARTS NYC, a NY-based organization that provides under-served children and families with a unique combination of educational arts and mentoring programs.
Three well known local Brooklyn artists were commissioned by Soft Clothing to create a tee shirt design based on what inspires them.
"The process itself was very inspiring for us! For the tee design, we thought a lot about what kids love, how they make art, and how open and potent their imagination can be. Creativity is very important at Soft, and as a former educator, I am so happy to be able to support both local artists and art education through this creative project. "Free Arts NYC is thrilled to be a part of Soft Clothing's inaugural Artist Series collection and pleased to support the local artists involved", states Soft Clothing Founder, Jessica Ralli.
What's so special about Soft® Clothing is that each clothing is designed with the needs of all children in mind, including those with sensory sensitivity, a common symptom of Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder, ADHD and many Developmental Disabilities. Soft® provides extra comfort with their use of flat seaming, 100% of the softest combed cotton, wide collars, encased elastic waistbands, printed labels (tagless) and more.
My boys are both sensitive to the texture and feel of clothing. So I was glad to received two of Soft's shirts which are perfect for layering under itchy winter sweaters! The shirts from Soft Clothing are really the softest shirts my kids have ever worn!
About Soft Clothing
Soft Clothing is based in Brooklyn, New York and designed by Jessica Ralli, a Special Educator, and Suzy Kogen Friedman, a mom and caring family member to a child with Autism, both of whom share a common goal to design clothing that can enhance a child's social skills, sensory organization and concentration by addressing unique sensory needs but without sacrificing personal style and self expression. Soft® supports organizations that support Autism Research, Inclusive Education, and dis/Ability awareness such as the Autism Society Of America, SPD Foundation and Autism Speaks.
About FREE ARTS NYC
Free Arts NYC provides under-served children and families with a unique combination of educational arts and mentoring programs that help them to foster the self-confidence and resiliency needed to realize their fullest potential.
The Brooklyn Artists Tee Series are now available for purchase at Sprout Kidz in Park Slope, Brooklyn and at the Soft Clothing website at: www.softclothing.net
Also check out Soft Clothing's community at www.softsensoryworld.com or their blog at www.softclothingblog.net
*Hip Mama's Place Disclosure: “My reviews and opinions are 100% my own. Soft Clothing provided me the shirts necessary to facilitate this review".
About the Author: Jocelyn Cañasa-Brown is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Hip Mama's Place was nominated for Parents' Picks 2010 Best Parenting Blogs and named one of the Highest Rated Blogs and Sites on Nickelodeon ParentsConnect for the Washington, DC area. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
How Antioxidants Really Affect Your Skin
Learn what's true (and what's not) about these cutting edge ingredients
This is a TotalBeauty.com skin care article
We've enlisted nutritionists Paula Simpson and Joy Bauer to debunk some common myths of nutricosmetics (aka nutritional supplements that help support the structure of the skin) and reveal their true benefits to your health and skin.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Mama Mio Skin Tight Toning Serum - Review and Giveaway!
Every new mom's skin nightmare is having crepey skin- skin that looks and feels saggy and loose post-pregnancy.
There's a new product called Skin Tight Toning Serum that helps new moms tighten the skin that endured the nine month stretch. This retexturising serum is multi-purpose and works to ‘lift, tighten and tone’ boobs, tummy, backs of arms, tops of legs and droopy knees. Hey, we can all benefit from that, right?
Skin Tight Toning Serum works in three distinct ways – daily exfoliation, anti-aging moisturisation, skin firming and tightening. These key ingredients gives both a short and a long term benefit for a tighter, firmer, toned skin
Papaya Enzymes exfoliate to soften and gently dissolve the 'cement' that holds dead skin cells on the surface, revealing newer younger skin.
Hyaluronic Acid is the most powerful moisturiser known to man. By moisturising so intensely it helps plump up the skin, smoothing the surface from beneath.
Uniprosyn™ this is usually used in very expensive eye creams to combat crow’s feet; a blend of Oat Protein, ATP and Vitamin B3 proven in laboratory testing to decrease skin crepyness by reducing the depth of wrinkles and boosting protein production within skin.
Soy Protein Complex is used for tightening the surface of the skin, ‘ironing out’ crepeyness. An instant fix.
How to use: Use twice a day for 6-8 weeks for maximum results. Mama Mio recommends that if you are using Skin Tight Toning Serum with Mama Mio Goodbye Stretch Marks, Shrink To Fit Hip & Thigh Cellulite Cream or Get Waisted Body Shaper, apply the Skin Tight Toner first. Wait for about 45 seconds, then apply the other product.
I'm on my second bottle of Skin Tight Toning Serum and I can already see a clear difference in my skin. The stretch marks around my belly area are not as clearly visible as before. This product have definitely helped me in that area! I also love the Goodbye Stretch Marks, which I apply and massage right after the Skin Tight Toning Serum.
Buy it now at MamaMio.com for $56.00 (100ml 3.4 fl oz)
*WIN IT!
One of you lucky Hip Mama's Place reader will win a full size bottle of Mama Mio Skin Tight Toning Serum, valued @ $56!
To enter the contest, leave me a comment by February 2nd, 2011 at 12MN, EST. THIS IS YOUR MANDATORY CONTEST ENTRY.
This contest is open to U.S. ADDRESSES ONLY. Please leave your email address (if you don't have a blog). I will choose one (1) winner using Random.org and will be announced as a comment on this post. The winner will also be notified by email and/or through a comment on their blog (if available).
*IMPORTANT: PLEASE DO NOT CROSS-PROMOTE ANY OTHER GIVEAWAYS HAPPENING ON ANY OTHER BLOG OR WEBSITE. ANY SPAM COMMENTS WILL BE DELETED IMMEDIATELY.
*EXTRA ENTRIES for many chances to win!
Your comment is your one required/mandatory entry. To earn extra entries, just do the following:
1. Tweet this giveaway on Twitter however you like, but include this URL page and hash tags at the end of your comment: http://bit.ly/gicopM @mamamio #skincare #mom #giveaways (5 EXTRA ENTRIES)
Example:
I want to win the Mama Mio Skin Tight Toning Serum giveaway @hipmamasplace! http://bit.ly/gicopM @mamamio #skincare #mom #giveaways
2. Like or Become a fan of Mama Mio on Facebook and post on their wall that Hip Mama's Place sent you (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
3. Follow Mama Mio on Twitter (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
4. Like or Become a fan of Hip Mama's Place on Facebook and post a comment on our wall and tell me why you like visiting Hip Mama's Place or reply to the latest post on our wall (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
5. Follow Hip Mama's Place on Twitter (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
6. Follow me or friend me on Google Friend Connect (link is under "Our Hip Followers" on the left side bar) (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
7. Join the Hip Mama's Place Community and EARN 2 EXTRA ENTRIES. You can earn 3 more extra entries by creating a new post or join in on the conversations on the "Forum" section of our mom community. (5 TOTAL EXTRA ENTRIES)
8. Grab one of Hip Mama's Place's buttons under the "Grab Our Fabulous Buttons" on the right hand side bar on our main page and paste it on an HTML page on your blog sidebar. (5 EXTRA ENTRIES)
Remember, the more entries you have, the greater chances of winning! Please make sure to leave a separate comment for each thing you do for your extra entries (i.e. your name on HMP Community name, Google Friend Connect, blog posts, Facebook name, Twitter name and post links, etcetera). Good luck!
*Hip Mama's Place Disclosure: “My reviews and opinions are 100% my own. Mama Mio provided me the necessary products to facilitate this review and giveaway".
About the Author: Jocelyn Cañasa-Brown is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Hip Mama's Place was nominated for Parents' Picks 2010 Best Parenting Blogs and named one of the Highest Rated Blogs and Sites on Nickelodeon ParentsConnect for the Washington, DC area. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Dinosaur Train New 2011 Episodes + A Toddler PJ Giveaway!
Dinosaur Train® is roaring into 2011 with an all-new episode premiering this Monday, January 17 on PBS KIDS®.
In the all-new episode, “The Good Mom”, Mrs. Pteranodon meets fellow mom Millie Maiasaura, who is a little too over-protective of her kids. The two moms share some time comparing mothering methods in a play date at the Big Pond. And, Mr. and Mrs. Pteranodon decide to surprise each other with gifts on their anniversary.
Here's a sneek preview of the "The Good Mom":
About Dinosaur Train:
In DINOSAUR TRAIN, young viewers join Buddy and his adoptive family of Pteranodons on whimsical adventures through prehistoric jungles, swamps, volcanoes and oceans as they unearth basic concepts in natural science, natural history and paleontology. The Dinosaur Train is a colorful locomotive, customized to accommodate all kinds of dinosaurs, and it has the ability to visit the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous worlds, while the Train’s Conductor, a knowledgeable Troodon, provides passengers with fascinating facts along the way.
DINOSAUR TRAIN is a Parents’ Choice Recommended TV series, and the DINOSAUR TRAIN website received a Parents’ Choice Silver Award and was the recipient of a prestigious 2010 Prix Jeunesse Award.
DINOSAUR TRAIN, created by Craig Bartlett (Hey Arnold!), embraces and celebrates the fascination that preschoolers have with both dinosaurs and trains while encouraging basic scientific thinking and skills. Each episode includes animated segments with live-action sequences featuring a paleontologist who brings to life the show's natural science and natural history curriculum for preschoolers, giving specific facts about dinosaurs and comparing their features to animals of today.
In addition to the television series, there is also a DINOSAUR TRAIN interactive website at PBSKIDS.org/dinosaurtrain. Buddy, Tiny and Mr. Conductor guide children as they discover natural history and the science of paleontology through fun games and activities. For information on the DINOSAUR TRAIN geocache program—a fast growing adventure game that inspires families to get out and discover treasures together go to www.geocaching.com/dinosaurtrain
*PJ Giveaway!
As part of Dinosaur Train's January promotional opportunity, they have the super duper cute “Dinosaur Train™ Striped Footed Pajamas” now available at Kohl's! Just what a “good mom” dresses her toddlers in to keep them warm and cozy during the winter months! The dinosaur appliques and striped pattern on these footed pajamas offer timeless touches, and the footed design keep toes toasty. Get your toddler this adorable dinosaur footed pajamas for $26.00, available in sizes 2T-5T!
And one of you lucky Hip Mama's Place reader will win a “Dinosaur Train™ Striped Footed Pajamas” in size 3T (as pictured)!
To enter the contest, leave me a comment telling me your family's favorite winter activity. THIS IS YOUR MANDATORY CONTEST ENTRY.
This contest is open to U.S. ADDRESSES ONLY and will end on January 29th, 2011 at 12MN, EST. Please leave your email address (if you don't have a blog). I will choose one (1) winner using Random.org and will be announced as a comment on this post. The winner will also be notified by email and/or through a comment on their blog (if available).
*IMPORTANT: PLEASE DO NOT CROSS-PROMOTE ANY OTHER GIVEAWAYS HAPPENING ON ANY OTHER BLOG OR WEBSITE. ANY SPAM COMMENTS WILL BE DELETED IMMEDIATELY.
*EXTRA ENTRIES for many chances to win!
Your comment is your one required/mandatory entry. To earn extra entries, just do the following:
1. Tweet this giveaway on Twitter however you like, but include this URL page and hash tags at the end of your comment: http://bit.ly/fRNCrk #giveaways (5 EXTRA ENTRIES)
Example:
I want to win the Dinosaur Train pj giveaway @hipmamasplace! http://bit.ly/fRNCrk #giveaways
2. Like or Become a fan of Hip Mama's Place on Facebook and post a comment on our wall and tell me why you like visiting Hip Mama's Place or reply to the latest post on our wall (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
3. Follow Hip Mama's Place on Twitter (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
4. Follow me or friend me on Google Friend Connect (link is under "Our Hip Followers" on the left side bar) (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
5. Join the Hip Mama's Place Community and EARN 2 EXTRA ENTRIES. You can earn 3 more extra entries by creating a new post or join in on the conversations on the "Forum" section of our mom community. (5 TOTAL EXTRA ENTRIES)
6. Grab one of Hip Mama's Place's buttons under the "Grab Our Fabulous Buttons" on the right hand side bar on our main page and paste it on an HTML page on your blog sidebar. (5 EXTRA ENTRIES)
Remember, the more entries you have, the greater chances of winning! Please make sure to leave a separate comment for each thing you do for your extra entries (i.e. your name on HMP Community name, Google Friend Connect, blog posts, Facebook name, Twitter name and post links, etcetera). Good luck!
*Hip Mama's Place Disclosure: “My reviews and opinions are 100% my own. The Henson Company provided me the giveaway prize to facilitate this giveaway".
About the Author: Jocelyn Cañasa-Brown is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Hip Mama's Place was nominated for Parents' Picks 2010 Best Parenting Blogs and named one of the Highest Rated Blogs and Sites on Nickelodeon ParentsConnect for the Washington, DC area. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Celebrity Mom Spotted: Bethenny Frankel at New York's Citibabes
Bravo star Bethenny Frankel was spotted with daughter Bryn at the chic family membership club Citibabes in New York’s Soho neighborhood on Monday.
Sources report that Bethenny brought her Bravo camera crew along for the 11:30am “Baby Movers” class, a music and dance class specifically designed for moms and their babies. Bethenny is a member of Citibabes since August of 2010. Other celebrity moms Christy Turlington and Heidi Klum are also regulars at this chic family club.
Citibabes, located in SoHo, is the ultimate resource for parents and children as they provide their members with best-in-class education, amenities, convenience and fun. Offering a wonderful community for families, Citibabes provides everything from fitness, education, arts and crafts, daycare, and trunk shows for their members!
About the Author: Jocelyn Cañasa-Brown is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Hip Mama's Place was nominated for Parents' Picks 2010 Best Parenting Blogs and named one of the Highest Rated Blogs and Sites on Nickelodeon ParentsConnect for the Washington, DC area. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
What New Year's Resolution Should You Make?
Because a "delete" and "replay" button for life doesn't exist, we need New Year's resolutions to help us make a fresh start each year
This is a TotalBeauty.com health and beauty article
To help you pare down your long resolution list and get to the bottom of exactly which health and beauty changes you should and can make this year, we designed this quiz.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
American Cancer Society's 'New Year, Choose You!' Program Helps Women Stick to their New Year's Health Resolutions + A Fun Giveaway!
Most of us who have New Year's resolutions know that the hard part is not making the resolution, it's sticking to it. This year, I'm committed to changing my eating habits for the better and finding more time to exercise regularly and keeping fit. So far, I'm doing great and I even got my husband to do these with me. :)
Get this: According to the American Cancer Society, about 50 percent of cancer deaths could be prevented if women maintained a healthy weight through diet and regular exercise, avoided tobacco products and got recommended cancer screenings.
That's why I'm so excited to bring you all the news about the ‘New Year, Choose You!’ initiative created to help us women stay on track and meet our health goals throughout the year! The American Cancer Society’s Choose You program have been helping women put their health first and stick to their health commitments by offering social support and financial incentives that have been proven to create long-term behavior change.
"Despite the best intentions, we know that most women are not successful in achieving their New Year’s resolutions. By providing women with the necessary support system, incentives and online tools, Choose You helps women develop long-term healthy behavior changes in order to achieve success and reduce their cancer risk", said Colleen Doyle, MS, RD, director of nutrition and physical activity for the American Cancer Society.
Here's how you can get started with Choose You to help yourself stick to your health resolutions this year:
Just log on to ChooseYou.com and sign up to make a commitment.
At ChooseYou.com, women can choose from different health categories, including: Eat Right; Get Active; Get Recommended Health Screenings; Protect Your Skin; and Quit Smoking. As part of the Choose You Commitment process, participants also have the option to make a monetary pledge and ask friends and family for support in order to incentivize them to stay on track.
Here's actress Ellen Pompeo (from ABC's Grey's Anatomy) endorsing the Choose You Campaign:
At ChooseYou.com, women can also access a variety of valuable tools and resources to support overall personal health goals, including: a calorie calculator, virtual dietitian, nutrition and activity quiz, smoking cost calculator, prevention and early detection videos and a desktop helper with daily health tips. The site also provides great articles on healthy habits, meals and exercising, among other available resources.
‘New Year, Choose You!’ Sweepstakes
As an additional incentive for women to join ‘New Year, Choose You!’ in 2011, women who make a new Commitment via ChooseYou.com between December 27, 2010 and January 31, 2011 will be eligible to enter the ‘New Year, Choose You!’ sweepstakes for a chance to win a series of health-related prizes. One Grand Prize Winner and a guest will win a trip for two to fly to Los Angeles, CA to train with celebrity fitness trainer, Holly Perkins of Exercise TV. The Grand Prize package includes two nights in Los Angeles and two days of one-on-one fitness and nutrition training with Holly. Plus, the Grand Prize winner will receive a take-home workout plan and $300 in spending money! In addition to the Grand Prize package, five first prize winners will each receive a $250 gift certificate to SpaFinder.com, five second prize winners will each receive a $100 gift card to Walgreens, and 25 third prize winners will receive a Choose You water bottle.
Backed by Extensive Research
An extensive academic research conducted by Yale economists on these types of “commitment contracts” has shown that combining incentives and accountability can make you up to three times more likely to achieve your goal. This simply means that an initiative like Choose You can be very effective in helping you achieve your health resolutions and goals. Just make the commitment!
So what are you waiting on? This year, I'm eating healthier and exercising more regularly. I am Choosing Me! How about you? Are you Choosing You?
Join me today at ChooseYou.com and become a part of the 'New Year, Choose You!’ movement!
*Fun Giveaway!
Choose You is giving away one Choose You prize workout kit to one lucky Hip Mama's Place reader, which includes a pedometer and calorie counter, resistance band and jump rope, a Choose You t-shirt and flower pin- all valued @ $30! Just perfect to get you started to being the New You! :)
To enter the contest, leave me a comment telling me your own health resolution/s this year and what steps you are taking to keep them. THIS IS YOUR MANDATORY CONTEST ENTRY.
This contest is open to U.S. ADDRESSES ONLY and will end on January 22nd, 2011 at 12MN, EST. Please leave your email address (if you don't have a blog). I will choose one (1) winner using Random.org and will be announced as a comment on this post. The winner will also be notified by email and/or through a comment on their blog (if available).
*IMPORTANT: PLEASE DO NOT CROSS-PROMOTE ANY OTHER GIVEAWAYS HAPPENING ON ANY OTHER BLOG OR WEBSITE. ANY SPAM COMMENTS WILL BE DELETED IMMEDIATELY.
*EXTRA ENTRIES for many chances to win!
Your comment is your one required/mandatory entry. To earn extra entries, just do the following:
1. Tweet this giveaway on Twitter however you like, but include this URL page and hash tags at the end of your comment: http://bit.ly/fdoEZF @ACSChooseYou #health #giveaways (5 EXTRA ENTRIES)
Example:
I want to win the Choose You health prize pack @hipmamasplace! http://bit.ly/fdoEZF @ACSChooseYou #health #giveaways
2. Like or Become a Fan of Choose You on Facebook
3. Like or Become a fan of Hip Mama's Place on Facebook and post a comment on our wall and tell me why you like visiting Hip Mama's Place or reply to the latest post on our wall (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
4. Follow Hip Mama's Place on Twitter (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
5. Follow me or friend me on Google Friend Connect (link is under "Our Hip Followers" on the left side bar) (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
6. Join the Hip Mama's Place Community and EARN 2 EXTRA ENTRIES. You can earn 3 more extra entries by creating a new post or join in on the conversations on the "Forum" section of our mom community. (5 TOTAL EXTRA ENTRIES)
7. Grab one of Hip Mama's Place's buttons under the "Grab Our Fabulous Buttons" on the right hand side bar on our main page and paste it on an HTML page on your blog sidebar. (5 EXTRA ENTRIES)
Remember, the more entries you have, the greater chances of winning! Please make sure to leave a separate comment for each thing you do for your extra entries (i.e. your name on HMP Community name, Google Friend Connect, blog posts, Facebook name, Twitter name and post links, etcetera). Good luck!
*Hip Mama's Place Disclosure: “My reviews and opinions are 100% my own. Choose You provided me a health prize pack to facilitate this review and giveaway".
About the Author: Jocelyn Cañasa-Brown is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Hip Mama's Place was nominated for Parents' Picks 2010 Best Parenting Blogs and named one of the Highest Rated Blogs and Sites on Nickelodeon ParentsConnect for the Washington, DC area. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
The 13 Best Face Powders
Which powder grabbed the No. 1 spot? Was it Chanel? L'Oreal? Read on to find out
This is a TotalBeauty.com face makeup article
Before you set your makeup again, take a gander at the powders on this list and ask yourself: "Self, would you say such lovely things about the powder you just topped your foundation with?" If the answer is no, it's time to hit the drugstore aisle or beauty counter -- armed with this list.
No. 13: Physicians Formula Mineral Wear Talc-Free Mineral Loose Powder, $9
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.1
"This powder blends very well and doesn't require a lot for sheer coverage [or] evening."
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.1
This "manages to feel micro-fine, so it doesn't settle into pores and fine lines" and does a good job at "zapping shine."
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.3
One reader loves the formula, which is "100 percent fragrance-free (phthalates-free for my health-conscious girls) [and] non-acnegenic."
Monday, January 3, 2011
A Healthier You with Ziploc + A Yummy Hummus Recipe
There's no doubt that a healthier lifestyle is at the top of most everyone's New Year’s Resolution. This year, my husband and I have vowed to make eating healthy and being more active physically become a habit (instead of a chore). That means, we're going to add exercise, eat less fast food and discover more portion-controlled meal options into our daily routine. We've started this new routine already and so far, we've been good! :)
And, to help you and me bring in 2011 on a healthier note, Ziploc has recently partnered with Food Network contributor, cookbook author and nutritionist Robin Miller to provide us moms the time and money-saving solutions we all need to create healthy and enjoyable meals and snacks for the whole family!
Here are Robin Miller’s tips for the New Year:
Divide and Conquer - Send the children off to school with a nutritious snack each day by creating 100-calorie snack portions. Get creative and have fun by allowing the children to divide nuts, fruit, cereal and crackers into different sections before placing them into Ziploc® Brand Snack Bags. Also, keep a bounty of healthy snacks inside the home, office and car – having them on hand will help you avoid last-minute temptations at vending machines and convenience stores.
Save and Repurpose - Save leftovers in individual portions and enjoy them for lunch the next day. Store them in Ziploc® Brand Containers or Freezer Bags to keep them fresh and ready for on-the-go meals. And don’t let those leftover holiday cookies go to waste – freeze and bring them out for a yummy treat when guests come over.
Store and Snack - Enjoy nutritious foods throughout the day to prevent overeating at mealtime. Portion out individual servings of fat-free dressings, vinaigrettes, pesto sauces and bean dips and eat them with baby carrots and zucchini sticks for snacks.
Bake a Batch - Fight the temptation to order take-out by reheating leftovers for another nutritious meal. Just double the batch of your healthy cooking and freeze the leftovers for later in the week.
Prep Multiple Meals- Be resourceful and create two (or more) quick, easy and nutritious meals at once. Look for multiple recipes that have at least four of the same ingredients and use Sunday as a cooking day to prep all the ingredients needed for them. Then simply store everything so each night it’s easy and quick to whip up a delicious meal.
I am loving this recipe for Roasted Red Pepper Hummus.. so yummy and healthy!
Serving size:• Makes 2 1/4 cups (serving size: 1/4 cup)
Ingredients:• 1 can (16 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (16 ounces) white beans (Cannellini or Great Northern), rinsed and
drained
• 1 cup roasted red peppers, from water-packed jar, about 2 whole peppers
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Optional sides:• Whole wheat pita pockets, cut into triangles
• Pretzel twists
• Carrot, zucchini and celery sticks
Directions:1. In a blender or food processor, combine all ingredients but the optional sides.
2. Puree until hummus is smooth and thick.
3. Serve with pita triangles, pretzel twists or carrot, zucchini and celery sticks.
4. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight Ziploc® Brand Twist ’n Loc® Container
(hummus will keep up to one week in the refrigerator).
Tip: Divide servings of the recipe in Ziploc® Brand Extra Small Containers to grab for an easy on-the-go time and money-saving snack. Pair with pretzel twists and veggies in Ziploc® Brand Snack Bags for easy portion control and a healthy start to the New Year!
For more of Robin's tips on staying healthy year-round, visit Ziploc on Facebook today!
Hip Mama's Place Disclosure: "My reviews and opinions are 100% my own. I received Ziploc products mentioned in this post to facilitate my review. I was in no way influenced by Ziploc or any other party while writing this review".
About the Author: Jocelyn Cañasa-Brown is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Hip Mama's Place was nominated for Parents' Picks 2010 Best Parenting Blogs and named one of the Highest Rated Blogs and Sites on Nickelodeon ParentsConnect for the Washington, DC area. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Bye-Bye 2010.. Hello 2011!
The holidays are over. The Christmas tree is down. The year 2010 just ended. Out with the old, in with the new. However you want to put it, there is no denying that 2011 is here! :)
New beginnings are always exciting. For me, this rings so true! I'm a newly married gal. For my husband and I, 2010 was a very exciting year.
Not only we've tied the knot, we also got to explore one of the most beautiful countries in the world -- Italy.
To top it all off, our family business is growing, and Hip Mama's Place is still kicking! The past year couldn't be any better for our family! :)
This year, we vowed to work harder to make things even better for our family: keep the family biz up, get more serious with our personal fitness goals, getting new furniture pieces and appliances for our house, go vacation to at least one nice, new place with our kids this year.. and more.
So bye-bye 2010... we are so grateful for all the blessings.
Hello 2011... may we continue to be courageous and have more energy to do bigger, better things.. keep us and our children healthy and strong and have more resources to do what we want to do whenever.
From our family to yours, HAPPY NEW YEAR 2011! :)
About the Author: Jocelyn Cañasa-Brown is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Hip Mama's Place was nominated for Parents' Picks 2010 Best Parenting Blogs and named one of the Highest Rated Blogs and Sites on Nickelodeon ParentsConnect for the Washington, DC area. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
