Five Monkies Gift Guide

Orient Automatic Watches

2010-11-23T23:23:00.001-05:00

Top of the line watches in a relatively affordable price bracket is hard to find. If you are looking for that one gift that will get an oh and ah out of your favorite person on your list, then check out the Orient Watch Company. You can find everything from Elegant watches to Diver watches. Just check out this Mako watch CEM65004M. Gorgeous watch.

Widely cherished in Asia, Europe, and South America, Japan’s largest producer of automatic watches

is finally available in the United States.

With more than 50 years of history and an annual production of over 2 million timepieces, Orient could quite possibly be the largest watch company you never knew existed.

With beautiful watches to choose from for both men and women, and with the added benefit of a 1 year warranty on your watch, you can shop through for an Orient and be happy with your decision. There are only certain places you can purchase an Orient brand watch and be sure that you are getting the real thing. You can find a list of all the stores that sell Orient automatic watches on the site.

One of the most classic watch styles on the site is the CEV09002W-Orient Classic.Price points on the Orient Automatic Watches are form $130 to well over $1,000. Orient has been highlighted in The New York Times, Men's Fitness, People, and more, and guess what...

shabby apple

2010-11-22T23:59:00.002-05:00

We all want to look pretty for the holiday parties we inevitably get invited to. Right? Well, how would you like to were a gorgeous dress made from Crepe de Chine Silk? With Shabby Apple you can find a gorgeous dress that will fit beautifully, and will not leave you feeling like you are falling out of your dress in any spot! I took a peek at the newest line they have, the Silk Road line, which is all made from Crepe de Chine silk, and let me tell you, these dresses are beautiful. I just wish they offered them in a plus size. Cuz until I lose this weight, I am stuck. Not to badly though since they off some gorgeous plus size dresses as well!

The Shabby Apple clothing is a very "boutiquey" feeling wardrobe, with a higher price than I normally spend. But they are definitely worth taking a look at. Especially for any upcoming special occasions you might have coming up. Whether it be a wedding, a party, or a date night with the spouse.

Shabby Apple also has offerings for kids and preteens, handbags and accessories, and oh yes, even shoes!

Follow Shabby Apple on Twitter to stay up to date on the sales, new styles, and contests they might have going on!

Check out the full line of Silk Road dresses:

Paul McCartney and Wings: Band on the Run

2010-11-22T23:33:00.002-05:00

Oh yes the legend is back. With Christmas right around the corner, we are looking for that perfect gift for our dads. I know mine would love love love this new re-release of the original Band on the Run. Featuring

1. Band on the Run

2. Jet

3. Bluebird

4. Mrs Vandebilt

5. Let Me Roll It

6. Mamunia

7. No Words

8. Picasso’s Last Words (Drink to Me)

9. Nineteen Hundred and Eighty Five

And Bonus Tracks:

1. Helen Wheels

2. Country Dreamer

3. Bluebird [from One Hand Clapping]

4. Jet [from One Hand Clapping]

5. Let Me Roll It [from One Hand Clapping]

6. Band on the Run [from One Hand Clapping]

7. Nineteen Hundred and Eighty Five [from One Hand Clapping]

8. Country Dreamer [from One Hand Clapping]

9. Zoo Gang

All the songs digitally re-mastered and brought to the best that they could possibly be. I am not a huge Paul McCartney fan, but even I can't help signing along with Band on the Run. LOL Seeing the kids faces as I am bebopping around the living room to the Band on the Run CD was priceless.

The musical achievement of Band on the Run is nearly matched by the amazing story behind its creation. Intrigued with recording abroad in the summer of 1973, McCartney searched for a list of studios around the world. Spotting one in the remote location of Lagos, Nigeria, he became enthralled with the idea of recording in Africa. Days before departure, lead guitarist Henry McCullough and drummer Denny Seiwell quit the band leaving the entire project to the three core members, Paul, his wife Linda McCartney and band-member Denny Laine (along with recording engineer Geoff Emerick). Recorded in August and September of 1973 (with further work done at AIR Studios in London in October 1973), they persevered through a tumultuous, yet creatively invigorating 2 month recording process battling difficult studio conditions, oppressive heat and a dangerous mugging at knife point. The thieves made off with the demo tapes (among other valuables), forcing the band to record the entire album from memory.

Band on the Run triumphed both critically and commercially. The album topped the US album chart 3 separate times, won a Grammy and went on to sell more than 7 million copies. Upon the release of Band on the Run, then Rolling Stone reviewer Jon Landau famously gushed, “The finest record yet released by any of the four musicians who were once called The Beatles.”

Paul is currently playing five songs from the album on his ‘Up and Coming Tour’. Live favorites over the last 8 years of touring have included “Jet”, “Band on the Run” and “Let Me Roll It”. In 2008 when Paul played a free outdoor show to over 500,000 people in Kiev, a Ukrainian poll listed “Mrs Vandebilt” as their all time favorite Paul McCartney song. It’s been included in the set ever since. At the start of this tour Paul added “Nineteen Hundred and Eighty Five” to the set.

Band on the Run marks the first release from the Paul McCartney Archive Collection, an ambitious reissue program that encompasses 40 years of cherished, classic material from the most successful songwriter and recording artist in music history. It’s also the initial physical release of the recently announced agreement between McCartney’s MPL and Concord Music Group to globally market and distribute McCartney’s venerated solo and Wings catalog.

Band on the Run can be purchased for as little as $8.99 (digital only) up to $89.99 (Deluxe Edition with 4 discs and digital).

Affordable Scarves

2010-11-21T23:02:00.001-05:00

You know before I moved to the North, I always thought scarves were pretty, but we didn't have a use for them in Florida. It never really got cold enough to warrant scarves. But since moving up here, I have indulged in my new found love of scarves. Well, I wouldn't say new found. When we lived in Alaska, I had like 25 scarves. LOL Now I only have like 6. But I am still finding new ones. It helps, maybe Donnie wouldn't agree, to have a site like Affordable Scarves to be able to find really pretty, useful scarves on.

One great thing about a scarf is that you can really show your personality with a great scarf. If you are wild at heart, take a peek at their animal print scarves. If you are a gardener, or shopping for one, then try the floral scarves. Me personally, I love the infinity scarves!

With rock bottom prices on amazingly sturdy products, you will be a repeat customer again and again. Kinda like me. There are a couple that I am eyeballing to wrap from Santa to myself. I did receive a gorgeous scarf to review from Affordable Scarves. It is a really long wrap style scarf called the Lyn Floral Wrap. I received it in black. The girls are trying to steal it from me constantly. The reason I choose a wrap instead of a regular scarf was because I wanted something that I could sit at the computer at, and be comfy and warm at the same time. It is so pretty that I have even worn it outside of the house. LOL It has a cute ruffled edge, and a barely noticeable rose pattern on it. The fabric is so soft that you will want to stay curled up in it. When I was sick last weekend, I did just that. I was running a fever so I wrapped up in my wrap, and then curled up in bed with more covers. The cost for this gorgeous wrap is only $42.46. If that is more than you want to spend, don't worry! Products at Affordable Scarves start at less than $20!

I can't close this without mentioning the Scarves.net site that is associated with Affordable Scarves. It is a site dedicated to showing you all the different ways to tie a scarf! So if you are a newbie or want to learn a new trick or two, then be sure to check out Scarves.net. You can follow Affordable Scarves on Twitter, or Like on Facebook, to keep up with sales, new styles, and contests for you to win. And for even more fun, check out the Affordable Scarves blog!

disclosure: I have a material connection because I received a gift or sample of a product for consideration in preparing to write this content. I was/am not expected to return this item or gift after my review period.

Build-A-Bear Workshop

2010-11-21T22:09:00.000-05:00

I think that the perfect gift no matter what holiday is a great stuffed animal. It has the ability to bring comfort. It has the ability to spark the imagination. And it is just so soft and cuddly. And when kids get a chance to be in the action, it makes the stuffed item so much more special. Being able to walk in, pick out your favorite, pick out his/her heart, be the one pushing the lever for the stuffing, bathing, dressing, and naming the stuffed animal makes it even better.

Build-A-Bear Workshop gives you all that, and more. When you are done bathing, dressing, and getting to know your little creation, you get to name it and adopt it. I will admit, I love watching the kids faces when they were taken into Build-A-Bear. It is a memory they still talk about today.

I was sent a $25 gift certificate to head over to Build-A-Bear Workshop and make my own furry little friend. The process is super easy. The animals range in price from $10 to $22. You pick your favorite. Then you decide if you want a voice box in it. After that, you stuff the bear, place it's heart in, bath, dress, and name. I have to say now, I was in a hurry, and did not do the adoption part. It was one of those days. But I do know from talking to one of the ladies working in there, that when you go through the adoption you get a code so that you can go on Build-A-Bear online and play with your friend virtually. Sounds pretty cool, right?!

You can find a Build-A-Bear workshop in most malls. If you do not have one near you, you can also order a furry friend online. You can also find lots of clothing and accessories on the website as well.

Follow along with Build-A-Bear on Twitter, or like on Facebook, to keep up with sales, new animals, and more!

Hasbro Easy-Bake Microwave and Style Set

2010-11-21T12:09:00.001-05:00

If you have a kiddo that loves the Easy-Bake oven, then you will want to add this new addition of the Easy-Bake line to your shopping list. The Easy-Bake Microwave and Style Set is a super easy to use and lets your future pastry chef make cute cakes and cookies.

We were sent the Easy-Bake Microwave and Style Deluxe Set to review. It just so happened to come on MacKenzie's birthday. So guess who got the toy? LOL She ripped into that box and started "baking" as soon as her party was over. The kit came with 1 rolling pin with 4 end caps, 1 measuring spoon, 1 fondant mold, 1 detail stamper, 1 cake pan (microwave safe), 4 cookie cutters, 1 letter stamper, 1 microwave container with lid (microwave safe), 1 pattern plate, 1 pink sugar cookie mix, 1 chocolate chip cookie mix, 1 chocolate cookie mix, 1 chocolate cake mix, 1 raspberry cake mix, 1 rainbow nonpareils packet, 1 vanilla frosting mix, 1 purple fondant mix, 1 pink fondant mix, 1 light pink fondant mix, 1 yellow fondant mix and instructions.

When it comes to creations, they have a slew of ideas within the instructions, but the possibilities are endless on what cakes or cookies your kidlet makes and decorates. And surprisingly the pieces come clean easily. They are dishwasher safe, but since my dishwasher is my own two hands I want stuff that I can easily wash and be done with. I have not had any trouble getting the cake crumbs out of the bottom of the trays.

When the initial mixes run out, you can easily purchase refills for the kit (we are purchasing a second kit for Savanna and more mixes for both for Christmas). The refills cost $5.99, and the Easy-Bake Microwave and Style Deluxe Set costs $29.99. You can also purchase an Easy-Bake Microwave and Style Trendy Cookie Set for $19.99. The age recommendation on this Easy-Bake product is 8+, but I think a mature 6 yr old would like it as well. Great mommy/daughter project as well if you are really into crafty stuff with your kids.

Eden Fantasy's

2010-11-21T11:53:00.000-05:00

If you are more on the adventurous side or want to just surprise your significant other with a really special gift, then you might want to check out Eden Fantasy's. They offer a wide range of products for the more intimate side of life. They offer everything from romantic mood setting items to sex toys.

If you are looking for something to wrap yourself up in, then check out their selection of negligee's. Maybe you are looking for something that has the promise of a deep tissue massage, then check out their selection of oils and massage creams.

Eden Fantasy's is a great alternative to the normal Christmas gifts, and is a great way to show the person you are spending your nights with that you still find them attractive. And if you have a more adventurous friend on your list, then grab a gift card. This is not the gift for everyone, but there are a few who would see the fun in a gift card from Eden Fantasy's.

CSN Stores

2010-11-21T11:17:00.000-05:00

If you are stuck between a rock and a hard place when it comes to what to get someone, try a CSN gift card. With a store for every taste and need. Do you have someone on your gift list that is remodeling their kitchen/dining room? Then have them check out the amazing dining room chairs at one of their stores. Shoe lovers will rejoice at the great prices. Kids will be able to find that perfect toy.

CSN really does have a store for everyone this Holiday season. When it comes to being able to get the most bang for your buck, then you will not be left feeling bad about your purchases. And with their rating system and review system, where buyers leave a review about the product, you can see ahead of time what other people thought about the product. To keep up with CSN and the happenings at all 200+ stores, follow them on Twitter and "Like" them on Facebook.

D23: Official Disney Fan Club

2010-11-19T21:06:00.000-05:00

We’ve got a great gift idea for the Disney aficionado in your life… and families will love it too. It’s a membership to D23, Disney's first official fan club. If you’re doing a Holiday gift guide soon, please consider including this suggestion.

D23 celebrates all the wonder and excitement that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his studio in Hollywood. It keeps you up on all of Disney’s films, television and the parks. Membership card gets you a ton of benefits including a beautiful quarterly magazine, member gifts, access to special events and more. Both Gold ($74.99) and Silver ($34.99) memberships are available.

See more details below. For more info and how to order: http://bit.ly/cCyw7X

A one-year D23 Silver Membership includes:

· Membership Card and Certificate: Your membership card and personalized, suitable-for-framing member certificate feature many of Disney's most beloved characters drawn by Disney Master Artist David Pacheco.

· Our 2010 member gift, Disney Undiscovered: A 23-Month Calendar (2010-2011) of Disney’s Unrealized Masterpieces from the Walt Disney Archives Collection. This vibrant piece offers rare and never-before-seen images from Disney parks, animation, and live-action films.

· Special Member Events: The opportunity to attend numerous D23 Member events throughout the year

· Exclusive Merchandise: D23 offers its members access to exclusive, limited-edition merchandise and collectibles.

· Subscription to bi-weekly D23 FanFare e-newsletter with breaking news and special offers. (You may opt out of receiving FanFare after your first e-newsletter arrives.)

· Special promotional offers and discounts throughout the year. More details available here.

A one-year D23 Gold Membership also entitles you to half price on:

· Disney twenty-three Quarterly Publication: A one-year subscription (four issues) to D23's exquisite collectible magazine, filled with stunning photography, dazzling illustrations and the ultimate Disney insider perspective. It's your all-access pass to discovering the magic of Disney's past, present and future! Sample it here http://bit.ly/9ZR9Qx

Playmobil Advent Calendar

2010-11-19T21:02:00.000-05:00

The PLAYMOBIL Advent Calendar is an innovative and inexpensive way to build excitement during the 24 days leading up to Christmas, and allows children ages four and up to continue playing with their new playsets long after the holiday season comes to an end (each day reveals a new toy and by Christmas the child has a complete playset).

New for 2010 are PLAYMOBIL Advent Calendars with Pony Ranch and Dragon’s Land themes. With a total of five different play worlds in all, each advent calendar is as unique as the imagination of the child who plays with it. Please click on the following link to see all of the 2010 themes: http://bit.ly/dbv7iP

Advent Calendars from PLAYMOBIL retail for $18.99 and are available at specialty retailers nationwide.

We were sent one of the Playmobil Advent Calendars to review, and I was really happy with the surprise package on my doorstep. I had seriously wanted to do an advent calendar this year, and this is a great way to introduce the kidlets to one. Unlike the traditional advent calendar, where you get a piece of candy or a little trinket from the opened window, you get a little Playmobil piece to go with the city scape. The one we were sent was the Advent Calendar "Police". Each spot contains a little person, pieces for the person, pieces for the city (like a toilet!), and when you have all your pieces are out, you can open up the cityscape and play! I foresee a lot of fun opening this advent calendar during the holidays.

Gourmet Gift Baskets

2010-11-18T22:58:00.000-05:00

If you are looking for a gift for a teacher, a neighbor, a friend, well, anyone, then one of the best things to get is a gift basket. You can get one that is sure to please even the pickiest person! One of the places I know of that has really great gift baskets is Gourmet Gift Baskets. They offer a wide selection of baskets for every occasion. And Christmas is no exception. Holiday gift baskets vary in taste, size, and price. You can go all out with an Executive Suite Christmas Gift Basket that costs $249, or you can go smaller with a Mini Christmas Gift Basket for $29. Either way you will receive quality products perfect for the situation needed.

Not only does Gourmet Gift Baskets offer Holiday baskets for Thanksgiving and Christmas, but they have the perfect basket for that new mom, graduation, Easter, or even just because. If your intended recipient isn't a chocolate lover, then you can go with a fruit and nut basket, or maybe a wine and cheese, or how bout a Around the World Beer Bucket.

Gourmet Gift Baskets has sales often on different baskets and you can keep up with all the happenings by following them on Facebook or Twitter. You can also keep up with them through the Blog Basket.

True Joy Acoustics

2010-11-18T22:14:00.000-05:00

UKULELE anyone? Lots of fun, even therapeutic! These kits feature a ready-to-play FLEA™ brand ukulele. They’re extra tough (kid proof!), easy to wipe down, and packed with essential gear to tune and strum it, learn basic techniques and tote it anywhere. No prior music experience required. Ukuleles are an easy alternative or stepping-stone to learning other instruments. In addition, Ukulele Musician Maker™ Kit sales help others in our community: (1) all kits are quality packed by a visually impaired workforce, and (2) for every nine kits sold, a 10th kit is donated to a pediatric hospital music therapy program. Learn music, help others ... that's True Joy!

Please check True Joy Acoustics for more information and pricing on the kits. If you have a music lover in your home, this would be a great unique gift. And a way to help give back this holiday season!

Wild Dill

2010-11-18T10:26:00.001-05:00

Have you ever come across one of those sites where you can find all kinds of goodies and you just want to sit there and oogle the site all day? Well that is exactly what happened when I came across Wild Dill. All thanks to Facebook for having their little ad up while I was on.

You will find clothing, toys, art supplies, and gifts all on the Wild Dill website. And making the products even better is the fact that they are organic, eco-friendly, and even fair trade. They use bamboo and soy for most of the products that are sold on the site. The art supplies are all made from soy, which means if your monkey eats the glue, it'll be okay.

We were sent some of the art supplies that are sold on Wild Dill made by Clementine Art. As soon as the box was opened, we had to unroll paper and get to painting. I don't know a kiddo alive who doesn't like art in some form or another. Many children who have sensory issues and can't take the feel of the paint on the fingers, still love to look at beautiful pictures painted by other kids. And many children who can't enjoy the visual beauty of a painting, still enjoy feeling their fingers in the wet paint. Art is just one of those things that can soothe a soul and help you find joy in your day!

The Clementine Art Natural Rock Crayons were a big hit as well in the monkie house. The kids all oohed and ahhed over the way cool crayon rocks. Which kinda looked like little nuts.

The Clementine Art Natural Glue surprised me quiet a bit. It actually works. I wasn't expecting it to work as good as my trusty Elmer's, but I got pleasantly surprised when we tried it out. It holds papers tight, and dries pretty quickly. The drying time did seem to be a little longer than with regular glue, but it wasn't so bad that I would say it was a negative to purchasing the natural glue.

You can also find markers and modeling clay from Clementine Art. Wouldn't this make a lovely gift basket idea for your art lover? Just add some sketch paper, paint paper, and other little art supplies and you have a creative minds best gift EVAH! Check out Wild Dill for all the great products that they offer. You can follow them on Facebook to keep up with sales, new products, and discount codes.

Speaking of discount codes...Use code 15off when you make a purchase at Wild Dill and receive 15% off your total purchase!

Check out the Flickr set for our Wild Dill paint fun!

Scandle: Shimmering Lotion Candle

2010-11-15T22:52:00.001-05:00

When you think of candles you don't usually think of lotion or moisturizer at the same time. With the Scandle you will think just that.

This unique candle burns at just 2 degrees above body temp to produce the shimmering moisturizing lotion to apply to your body. I was sent a Scandle to review and when I lit, I was a little apprehensive. I was expected the normal cake and peel off candle wax to be left on my skin. Boy was I pleasantly surprised to find that instead, I got a soft oil type mixture on my skin that easily rubbed in and left my hands really really soft. The light shimmer that you get is better than any body bronzer I have ever tried!

The scent that it leaves behind is almost like a warm sugar cookie. A hint of vanilla and spice. But that was just mine! There are a ton of different fragrances to choose from! This would be a perfect gift for that special someone in your life. Maybe she has a stressful job and you want to give her the best back rub she has ever had. Foot massage anyone? At $22.99 for a refillable cermanic canister, or $13.95 for a travel size, you will definitely not be breaking the bank or the budget for this gift idea!

Connect with Scandle on Twitter and Facebook to stay up to date on sales and promotions.

Super Sipperz!

2010-11-12T01:25:00.001-05:00

My daughter, Savanna, has an obsession with straws. She has yet to meet a straw she hasn't wanted to try. So when I was approached about reviewing the Super Sipperz! I jumped at it. Just for her. These are regular bendy straws in a variety of colors. But what makes them really nifty is the connectors that allow you make really wacky designs out of all of the straws.

The girls immediately went and started building stuff. MacKenzie the architect tried putting 5 drinks in a row and building a bridge that all of the kids could sit at and drink from. They figured out really quick that root beer, orange Fanta, and lemonade really don't mix that well. Because that is exactly what happened. The drinks all mixed together and they had some funky flavored stuff coming out of their straws.

If you have super imaginative kids, or well even not that imaginative kids, then you might want to add these to the stockings. They are reasonably priced at $9.99 for one 80 piece set and then just an additional $5 for a second set for a total of 160 pieces! Each set contains straws, connectors, a mesh storage bag, and a 60 day money back guarantee. Plus the fun you can't buy from watching your kids eyes light up while building. Oh, and the set also contains one set of tubes to make glasses out of the straws.

Check out this really cool video on the Super Sipperz! website. I love the little girl lounging by the pool with straws leading to her drink. LOL For straws you can build with, these are definitely pretty cool!

Lego Universe

2010-11-09T23:13:00.000-05:00

"Adventure awaits in endless worlds of creative LEGO® fun where you can safely build, play and connect online. Build your custom LEGO Universe minifigure and join the Nexus Force, an elite team of heroes united to defeat the Maelstrom, a dark menace trying to destroy imagination!

Battle dark creatures, chat with friends and build custom LEGO creations like pets, rockets and race cars! The best players gain leader board fame and collect the coolest LEGO loot.

Within LEGO Universe, players will safely create, build, quest and socialize together. This entirely new online world will be the place for LEGO enthusiasts of any age to form their own fun adventures!"

We were sent a copy of the new Lego Universe game and I have to tell you, it is a BLAST! Braden has been playing this nonstop now for a week. Once he figured it out, he was hooked. Kenzie (even though she is all girlie here lately) has a love for Lego's and she likes this game as well. While she still prefers her Sims 3, she is playing Lego Universe a couple of times a week.

This game is pretty cool. When you purchase the game disc you get one month of access to the online world. After that you have to purchase additional access. You can purchase it in 1, 6, and 12 months at a time. This is the only area with the game that I have issues. You can only play it online. We haven't been able to play it offline, so I am assuming and going off what the website says, that unless you have internet access add continue to purchase the subscriptions then you can't play. The initial cost of the game is $39.99. Subscription prices are $9.99 to $89.99. Which is kinda suckish.

Overall the game is quiet good. You have so much to do and creating the characters (you can do up to 4), and the imagination factor in getting to build the worlds is really cool. If you have a kidlet who likes to play MMO's and you are wanting to find something more along their age level, then this is the route to take.

Madeline's Christmas and Other Wintry Tales

2010-10-27T23:02:00.000-04:00

Madeline is a favorite in our home. I have never seen a child who can get into and out of more trouble than this kid. LOL But isn't it so much fun to watch as she figures out the lessons from her mistakes? With the newest Madeline movie just released by Shout Factory, Madeline's Christmas and Other Wintry Tales, you and your kids can sit back and enjoy some snow filled Parisian fun.

You get to travel all over from the Alps to the North Pole, you will get to experience the craziness of no Mrs. Clavel. Btw- I think that woman is a saint to take care of all those little girls and stay so calm all the time.

There are 5 episodes on this DVD:

Madeline's Winter Vacation (set in the Alps with Mrs. Clavel's Aunt)
Madeline at the North Pole
Madeline and Santa (our favorite from this DVD)
Madeline's Holiday with Mr. Grump (and yes he is aptly named)
Madeline and the Ice Skates

Run time on Madeline's Christmas and Other Wintry Tales is 110 minutes, and cost for this wonderful Christmas movie on Amazon is $11.49. You can also purchase it at your other favorite movie retailers.

Dragonart Evolution

2010-10-27T22:47:00.000-04:00

If you have a budding artist in your home then this is one book you will want to put under his tree!

This drawing book contains:

60+ step-by-step demonstrations covering a variety of dragons, including medieval, fairy and sea-dwelling wyrms
In-depth advice for drawing every part of the beast – eyes, ears, horns, wings, scale patterns, limbs and more
Extra tips and tricks provided by your dragon guide, Dolosus

With the rage being towards the mythical the past few years, Dragonart Evolution fits right into the genre and right into any artists heart that likes to try and draw knights and dragons. Braden was so excited to get this book and open it up. While he really isn't old enough to understand all the drawing concepts within the book, he definitely likes looking through the pictures and trying his hand at drawing the simpler dragons. MacKenzie is at a better age to sit down and draw the dragons. Her favorites are the more fairy tale dragons and she likes taking time with the wings. She does tend to get a bit "creative" while drawing the wings.

Did you know that Newsweek did an article called "The Creativity Crisis"? It talks about how kids aren't using their imaginations like they use to. I completely agree. I think kids today are so into video games and television shows that they just don't have the imaginations we had when I was little. I think that is why I prefer books to tv. I can actively engage my mind in what I am reading.

So to get your kids off the couch and having a different kind of fun, pop Dragonart Evolution under the tree this year. And when your artist is done creating, have them upload their designs onto DeviantArt.com and share with millions of other artists!

You can purchase Dragonart Evolution by J. "NeonDragon" Peffer at most of your favorite bookstores, including Amazon. Amazon has it for just under $16.

Canvas People

2010-10-24T10:01:00.000-04:00

Canvas People is offering a free 8x10 photo canvas (a $55 value) and all you have to do is pay shipping. This would be a SUPERB Christmas gift for grandparents who love having photos of their grands all around. Why not grab all the kids and grandkids, have a nice person snap a picture and waa-laa you have instant generation photo for the wonderful set of parents that keep nagging you for a family photo. This is offer is valid for US and Canada.

For an additional charge you can add a frame and add a creative effect. If you want a larger size than 8x10, you will get $55 credit towards any of the canvas photos. Largest size is 18x24 and it will cost you $43.99 after the $55 credit is applied.

EcoMom

2010-10-23T23:27:00.000-04:00

EcoMom is one of those sites that you can go to for EVERYTHING. Literally. They have organic food, toys, clothing, and even a forum to talk to other eco-conscience parents out there. They literally have everything. You might remember the review I held not to long ago for their organic snacks, in particular their Revolution Foods graham cracker snacks and fruit squeeze pouches. Both of which were a hit.

Well, like I said before...EcoMom has it all. So when I was thinking of a great site to include in this here Gift Guide, I knew I wanted to have them as a partner. If you are looking for something for mom, dad, or the kids you are sure to find something that they will love. And when it comes to little girls, well they have the perfect gift...

Every little girl at some point wants a dollhouse. Last Christmas I ended up driving two hours to find one (which is now being used as a book case). I paid way too much for it and the quality was not that great. Which is why it is a bookcase now. The girls really loved it, but when the pieces all started to break we just had to re-purpose it. Savanna has already added a new dollhouse her to her wish list this year! But I want to make sure that the dollhouse that she receives from old St. Nick is durable this go round. If you are short on space, you should really try the Melissa and Doug Fold and Go Mini Dollhouse. It measures 13.13"x10.63"x6.13", which makes it perfect for table top play. And the fold up design allows it to store easily and quickly. It comes with a total of 11 pieces of furniture and 2 little people. Cost for the Melissa and Doug dollhouse is $60 on EcoMom and you get free shipping with it as well.This particular dollhouse is for ages 3+.

I am a huge M&D fan and EcoMom has so many of their products for really good prices that I know I will be shopping there a lot. LOL

Another of my favorites from EcoMom, and one I am sure all little boys would want, it the Crafty Kids Shuttle. They also have a little cottage for the girlies.

You can keep up with all that is happening on EcoMom by following along on Twitter, or liking them on Facebook.

Goliath Games

2010-10-23T22:56:00.000-04:00

Board games are always a big hit with my kids. They absolutely love the different games that come out, and even the classics are a big hit. One of our favorite companies has quickly become Goliath Games. They have such a fun assortment of games that span all age levels that it is easy to find a new game to place under the tree. I have been on the hunt for games out of the box for the twins. We did Hungry Hungry Hippo, and while it is a big hit, it is stationary and they get bored. So when we were sent Mad Mouse to try out I was thrilled to see that the mouse moves! The cute little blue mouse darts around and the goal is to catch the mouse by the tail with little cat paws. When you catch the mouse you get cheese. Whoever gets the most cheese wins. Easy peasy! The twins actually screeched in delight over chasing this thing. Mad Mouse comes with 4 of the cat paws, the electronic mouse, 9 pieces of cheese, and requires 2 AA batteries. The cost for Mad Mouse is $30.99. You can purchase it on Goliath games website, Amazon, and several other sites. Check for all the places to purchase HERE.

We were also sent Pop the Pig to try out. This was definitely up Braden and Savanna's alley. This is a great game for learning to count and estimation. Why? Well because the players have to guess how many bites it will take the pig to eat the burger. With every time you push on piggies head, his tummy grows. Just don't push too many times, or the tummy pops. Think of the first time you saw a Jack in the Box. And the reaction to "POP! Goes the weasel" That would be Colton's reaction every.single.time that Braden made the stomach pop. Which was every.single.time it was his turn! Pop the Pig is for ages 4+ and it is great fun. It comes with 1 Pop the Pig and 16 burgers. The cost is $24.99 (it is on sale right now!).

Along with these two games there are many more games available through Goliath Games. Check them all out and see which is your favorite!

Santa Bread

2010-10-19T10:16:00.000-04:00

I came across this recipe on Taste of Home and thought it looked so cool. I know I would not be able to make it look this good, but hey it would be fun to try!

Directions:

Start with 2 loaves of purchased frozen bread dough and turn them onto a lightly floured surface. Take a small portion of one loaf and add it to the other loaf, making it slightly larger.
On a lightly floured surface, shape the larger portion of bread dough into an elongated triangle with rounded corners for Santa's head and hat.
Shape and flatten half of the smaller portion of dough into a beard. Using a scissors or pizza cutter, cut the beard into strips to within 1 in. of the top of the beard.
Carefully pick up the cut beard piece with both hands and position the beard on the bottom of Santa's face.
If desired, twist the cut strips in the beard and slightly curl up the ends of the strips to shape the beard.
Use the remaining dough for the mustache, nose, hat pom-pom and brim. Shape a portion of dough into a mustache; flatten and cut the ends into small strips with scissors. Place above beard. Place a small ball above mustache for nose. Fold tip of hat over and add another ball for pom-pom. Roll out a narrow piece of dough to create a hat brim; position under hat.
With a scissors, cut two slits for eyes; insert raisins into slits. In separate small bowls, beat egg each yolk. Add red food coloring to one yolk; carefully brush over hat, nose and cheeks. Brush plain yolk over remaining dough.
Add red food coloring to one beaten egg yolk and carefully brush the tinted red yolk over the hat, nose and cheeks.
Cover loosely with foil. Bake at 350° for 15 minutes. Uncover; bake 10-12 minutes longer or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack. Yield: 1 loaf.

VeggieTales: It's a meaningful life

2010-10-19T10:04:00.000-04:00

I am a huge VeggieTales fan. Have been for YEARS. I mean really, who doesn't like veggies talking to them?! I think my fandom stems from annoying the crap out of my friend Arin during a youth trip. I spent hours singing "Oh where is my hair brush". Which led to years later, her actually giving me a hair brush for Christmas. LOL. Good times.

Not only are the tunes catchy but the morals and the stories are something I have no issue with my kids watching and being exposed to over and over and over again. Which we have. Tons of times. Larry the Cucumber is a big hit my house. My favorite thing about this VeggieTales movie is that I can reiterate something I try really hard to teach the kids. That no matter what, you should always understand your own worth and importance to be content with what they do have rather than worrying about what others have. It is a hard lesson. Especially in this age of entitlement that we are living through. The old values of be thankful for the things we have is gone. Everyone wants bigger and better. Ugh that is so another post, one I actually have written and think I will post along with this review. Watch for it.

Back to the talking tomato.

It's a meaningful life has a brand new song set. It even has Steven Curtis Chapman on there. Some of the Bonus Features include:

Directors’ Audio Commentary
Art Gallery
Parents Guide presented by Family Life
“Goodnight Junior” Silly Songs Sing-Along
Visit a Train Museum with Larry
Behind The Music of It’s a Meaningful Life—An Interview with Steven Curtis Chapman
“Meant To Be” Music Video

The video run time on this particular movie is 48 minutes. You can purchase it at most major stores like Wal-Mart, Target, Amazon and even online at BigIdea.com. This would make a great stocking stuffer or if you are like me and have this thing about giving a new movie each holiday season, this is your next perfect pick!

Beauty and the Beast Diamond Edition

2010-10-12T23:01:00.003-04:00

I will readily admit that my FAVORITE movie is Beauty and the Beast. I always loved how Belle could look past the way Beast looked, and see his heart. I remember seeing the movie many many years ago and falling in love with Disney right then and there. While I loved all the princess movies when I was little, Beauty and the Beast resonated with me. And now at 30 years old I am still enchanted with the dancing tea pot and cups. I could listen to the clock and candlestick bicker all day. And I still gasp when the last petal of the rose falls. I am thrilled that now I have two daughters of my own that I can share the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast with. And with the new Diamond Anniversary addition, I can enjoy it with the girls in a few new ways.

Did you know that Beauty and the Beast is only one of two animated movies ever nominated for an Academy Award? Or how bout the fact that it was the first Disney movie to inspire a Broadway stage play by the same name?

Disney’s most requested film, Beauty and the Beast, arrives for the first time on Blu-ray Hi-Def as the second installment to the company’s new Diamond Collection. The Blu-ray transformation reveals the magic, music and majesty of the film as never before experienced with state-of-the-art picture restoration, pristine 7.1 Digital Surround Sound and hours of additional viewing experiences that include behind the scenes features, deleted scenes, enhanced music tracks, immersive games and more.

I know we will spend a lot of time munching popcorn and watching this movie. You can purchase Beauty and the Beast where ever you like to get your movies at.

This would make one little girl smile a bright smile if she pulled it out of her stocking or unwrapped it from under the tree. I know, cuz I'd be smiling just as wide!

SodaStream

2010-10-12T22:23:00.001-04:00

If you have a soda lover in your house, and you are tired of paying the prices to purchase all their favorite flavors, how about making it at home. Only want your kiddos to have soda on special occasions or as a special treat, make it at home. That's right. Make your own favorite flavors of soda at home. Thanks to SodaStream you can do just that.

SodaStream offers you a convenient alternative to purchasing the soda from the grocery store. Thanks to their small easy to store fountains, all you need extra is the flavor mixes and the carbonator bottle. Really simple to make. You just twist the CO2 canister onto the fountain, add water to the bottle, attach the bottle to the machine and then add your carbon. Then just add your flavors. We have been using a SodaStream Fountain Jet for a year now, and have just run out of carbonation in our bottle. Time for a refill. And that part is easy as well. You order your new CO2 canister and return the old one. Easy peasy.

At SodaStream you will find a variety of flavors for your sodas. From Grapefruit to Diet, Energy to flavored water. They have all your bases covered. Including the diet flavors. Our kids loved the Orange and the Root Beer flavors the best, and I personally think that the Diet tasted pretty darn close to the name brand ones I buy from the grocery store. Prices start at $99.95 for a Fountain Jet, which is your basic model and perfectly fine, and goes up to $299.95 for the Penguin Value Kit, which is really cool looking!

Not only are saving a bundle but you can feel good about being a little eco-conscience as well. You won't be throwing out those pesky plastic bottles or aluminum cans. You simply re-use the bottles you get with the Soda Stream. You can also purchase extra bottles for $14.99.

You can make all your SodaStream purchases directly from their website. Connect with SodaStream on Twitter and Facebook to keep up with the latest news. You can also check out their YouTube channel.

Webkinz Jr.

2010-10-09T11:34:00.000-04:00

If you didn't know by now, my kids are all big stuffed animal fans. One of our favorite stuffed animals is Webkinz. The girls were introduced to Webkinz thanks to a friend of mine named Terri. Her daughter was collecting them, and when my girlies found out about them it started a frenzy. They have collected the cards, the animals, the bracelet/necklaces/charms, and everything else that goes with Webkinz. Of course the boys wanted to get in on the action and be able to play online with their own Webkinz. So you can imagine how thrilled I was when we were introduced to Webkinz Jr.

Webkinz Jr. are a larger version of the small Webkinz. Each one is a cute cuddly bundle of fur and stuff. And like the original Webkinz, Webkinz Jr. has its own virtual world where your little one can take care of their pet. The differences in the websites isn't too big. While Webkinz has a website that is more geared towards kids who can read and can do more interactive stuff, Webkinz Jr. offers your little ones in the 3-6 age range the ability to play games, feed their pets, decorate their little homes, and many of the other things that the original site allows for the older kids, it is just easier for the littler ones to be understand. Braden loves playing on Webkinz Jr. Getting on daily to take care of his pet and play some games is one of his favorite demands.

Webkinz Jr are available in a variety of animals, 18 to be exact. The cost for one Webkinz Jr is around $20.00 at most retailers. You have your choice of everything from bunnies to giraffes. And of course there are a couple of monkeys as well! You can purchase them at most major toy outlets (Toys R' Us, Amazon, Babies R' Us). Be sure to get yours and put it back for Christmas!

Handmade Christmas Soap

2010-10-08T22:47:00.000-04:00

I came across this really easy really great craft for Christmas at Milk and Cuddles. The actual post was for Halloween, so we did both. I had never made soap before and thought it would super difficult, but it was so easy I think we may do more as gifts for neighbors and grandparents. Next time I might add some scent to it.

All you need for the soap is glycerin (bought mine at Michael's for $9.99, and can make 16 soaps with one block), Christmasy items to put in the soap, a muffin tin, and some clear wrap.

Melt the glycerin in the muffin tins. The site I came across that had the directions used silicone muffin pans and said microwave for 35 seconds until glycerin is melted. I didn't have any silicone muffin pans, so I used some regular ones from the Dollar Tree. I melted it in the oven at 200. It took about 10 minutes to fully melt the soap down.

Add the items to the soap, pushing it down with a popsicle stick or something like that so that it is covered completely in the soap.

Let stand for 20 minuted and then remove and wrap.

I had no trouble getting the soaps out of the muffin tins, although I am sure they would come out prettier with silicone pans. We added little bells for the Christmas look. If we make them for gifts this year, I will purchase some decorative stickers for the backs to cover the wrap and keep it secure.

The cost for making 16 soaps was $14.

Piggy Paint

2010-10-05T23:47:00.002-04:00

Sure to brighten any young girls heart to open up a gift basket full of nail polish. LOL Piggy Paint is one of those companies that you just love purchasing from. Not only are you going to get great products that do not contain any nasty chemicls (after all Piggy Paint is as natural as mud!), but you are going to find nail polish with names that make any girl, young or old, smile. Whether you have the more subdued color lover or the far out their bright as the sun color lover, then you will be covered. And even better, this polish is perfectly safe to place on the tiniest fingers without the fears of them sucking the paint off. While I am not saying the paint won't come off, what I am saying is that since the polish is completely natural and doesn't contain any harmful chemicals, then your little toe sucker (my girls preferred to bend themselves in half to suck on their toes instead of their thumbs!) won't have to be rushed to the emergency room.

Now with a whole new polish line called Project Earth designed for that tween in your life that might be a little eco-friendly, Piggy Paint is embarking on a new journey! With colors named things like "Drama" and "The Boyfriend Blues" your tween/teen is sure to love these colors. There is even a glow-in-the-dark color called "Radioactive". This is by far Kenzie's favorite and she has worn it every day since receiving it from Piggy Paint. It does take a couple of coats to really glow, but when it is glowing it is pretty cool.

Nail polish from Piggy Paint starts at $8.99 a bottle and goes up to higher prices for gift sets that include several bottles as well as polish remover.If you spend over $35 on items from the website you will receive free domestic shipping. You can connect with Piggy Paint via Twitter and Facebook to find out about secret sales and discount codes.

Piggy Paint makes great stocking stuffers or a tween/teen spa basket!

Use coupon code MONKIES10L to take 10% off your order from Piggy Paint.

My Pillow Pet

2010-10-05T23:16:00.001-04:00

Named one of Toys R' Us Fabulous 15 this is one hot toy this year. And what is awesome is it is not a toy at all. It is a pillow. It is a wonderful companion for some imaginary fun. It is a security item for when your little one is sleeping away on their first sleep over. It is so many things. We have two of the folding stuffed animals now and are waiting on number three to arrive. I can't tell you how much all of my children, and even mommy, loves these adorable stuffed animals.The kids all fuss over who gets to use them to sleep on. It is so funny to watch. Of course if it gets to bad I step in and decide that mom needs it in her bed.

Don't be fooled by those pesky mall people who have set up stands selling the "bed pets" that look from a distance just like the My Pillow Pet. One sure fire way of making sure you are buying the real deal is by looking for the pillow pet tag. I managed to do a recon mission at our local mall and asked a few questions. I was shocked that the lady there selling them wanted me to believe that they were the exact same thing as seen on tv. I picked one up and tried to get a feel for it. While the knock-offs are soft, they have a different feel to the "fur" and the fluffiness is not there like with the real Pillow Pets.

With the holiday season fast approaching, you might want to grab one for traveling if you are visiting family. The Pillow Pet would make a great car pillow. At a cost of $19.95 for the first one and $15.95 for up to 5 additional ones, you will be getting something your child will cherish for a long time to come. It will get lots of use out of it, and will most definitely have a special spot on the bed. With 20 different pets to choose from there is sure to be a winner for your home. Be sure to purchase your Pillow Pet early though. Last year they sold out of inventory before Christmas.

Okabashi

2010-10-04T22:55:00.000-04:00

If you have someone you know that really loves comfy easy to slide on shoes, then you will want to add Okabashi to your Christmas Shopping List! Okabashi is a company that makes 100% recyclable shoes. They offer spa quality sandals as well as great clogs. They also have a boutique brand for those who want an eco-friendly shoe with style written all over it.

I was sent a pair of the Okabashi clogs to review, and instantly fell in love. I have had the shoes for about two weeks now and I can honestly say that I wear them EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. Whether it is just around the house or running quick errands, these shoes stay right out in the living room. The only problem I have had with them is I tried to wear socks with them, but they were to tight on my feet for me with socks.

The Okabashi shoe line is endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association, and why you may ask. Well, because insole of every sandal is carefully crafted with arch support and massage beads. The placement is based on the study of reflexology, to encourage better circulation to the foot and vital organs. Your feet will thank you for wearing these shoes. I know mine do.

And unlike the other well known brand of clogs out there, these shoes won't cost you an arm and a leg. Okabashi costs just $14.99 and up! Yep, AHH-some! The Okabashi clogs would be a perfect gift for a nurse you know and love, a gardener that plants you beautiful flowers, or even for someone you know that just loves comfy shoes. They have men's as well as children's sizes available as well. Be sure to check out the sizing guide to make sure you order the right size for you.

You can connect with Okabashi via Facebook to keep up with sales, contests, and news concerning the brand.

EO Products

2010-10-04T20:19:00.000-04:00

I am loving this company. Really and truly loving. EO Products was a sponsor for Blogmania and gave one winner a Lavender Spa Gift Basket, and I was sent a few products to try out from their Holiday collection. I have said before how lavender is my absolutely favorite scent in the world. I could smell it all day long. So when I opened the box from EO Products and discovered lavender bath salts and lavender bubble bath, can I just say I was in my own version of heaven?! Needless to say the bubble bath is all gone and I am missing my lavender, and have added it to my own personal pretty please for Christmas list. Along with the Canon Rebel, iPad, Borders bookstore all expenses paid shopping excursion I have outlined for the honey. LOL

The reason I loved this lavender bubble bath was because it contained the perfect amount of scent. I do mean perfect amount. It envelopes you when you pour it under the hot water, and leaves your skin feeling wonderfully soothed. As well as the rest of you.

I was also sent two bottles of EO Products hand wash. One in Meyer Lemon & Sage, and the other in Mandarin Spice. I placed one in the kitchen and one in the bathroom. My fav is the Meyer Lemon & Sage. Reasons...well because it smells so yummy. It is in the kitchen and when you wash your hands with it, it leaves a light fragrance behind. And your hands smell good enough to lick. Even though I wouldn't advice it. It might smell heavenly, but it tastes like soap!

All of EO Products are natural products that enhance your skin and well being. Boy I sure agree with that mission statement! EO Products does not label their products as organic, even though they use certified organic materials to make them. I thought that was odd, but after reading a little further into it, I walked away knowing that I am dealing with a company that really cares about the image they put out there and do not want any confusion. You can read their story HERE and see what I mean.

EO Products offers a wide selection of personal care products that will fit every budget, and every need. From single products to gift baskets you are sure to be able to find the perfect gift for that spa lover on your Holiday Shopping list!

You can connect more with EO Products on Facebook and on Twitter. You will be privy to sales and discount codes when you follow on either site. You will also be able to stay on top of what new things they are up to!

Kameleon Jewelry

2010-10-04T10:36:00.000-04:00

When you think about a chameleon, you think of an animal that can blend in with whatever situation it comes across. It has the ability to change it's color, change it's look so to speak, and transform into whatever the occasion calls for. As women we could really use that ability with a lot of things. LOL. I know I wish some days that my stove was really a chef in disguise.

Wouldn't it be nice if our jewelry had the ability to change into something different, but be able to retain the same base? Well, guess what! I have found a company who offers just that option. Kameleon Jewelry specializes in interchangeable jewelry pieces.

You can purchase either a necklace, ring, sunglasses, bracelet, and much more as your base. Then you get individual "jewel pops" that pop in and out of the base piece. The JewelPops come in a huge variety of pieces. You can get ones that are more elegant looking all the way to the other end of the spectrum where you have fun pops.

Green Sparkle JewelPop $29

From the website:
JewelPops are available in a rainbow of colors and materials and being the same size, are able to migrate amongst the entire Kameleon Jewelry collection. Some are set with semi-precious stones, Swarovski Crystal, lab Opals or sparkling cubics and sport outrageous names like “Strawberry Shortcake” (Rhodochrosite) and “Midnight at the Oasis” (Blue Sunstone), adding a real element of fun to the Collection.

Kameleon Jewelry resonates with what today’s consumers are seeking – beautiful jewelry that is flexible, versatile and reflects a sense of individualism and style. Investing in Kameleon sterling silver comes with the added value of infinite possibilities tailored for every mood and wardrobe change.

CZ Swirl Pendant $99

Changing out your JewelPops are easy. You just push gently on the back of the pop to remove it, then gently push on the front to replace it. They have quite a snug fit and you will not have to worry about losing the pieces when you are out. I think that JewelPops would make a great gift for just about anyone. Especially teens who want that individuality most of all. With prices starting at $19.99 for a solid round pendant, and JewelPops costing from $24, you or your gift recipient will be able to have a lot of fun and a lot of "new" jewelry without the expensive price tag! With the simplicity in some of the designs and the ease of use, I would say that this would be a great gift for your tween to your your oldest recipient!

Connect now with Kameleon via Facebook or Twitter.

Taco Salad with a Twist

2010-10-02T22:34:00.000-04:00

Post courtesy of Debi from Who Say's 8 Is Enough? Debi was kind enough to share this recipe for Taco Salad made with natural ingredients. Make it and set it out for a quick yummy meal during your busy holiday season!

One of our favorite, favorite foods to eat at a party has always been Taco Salad.

So when we decided to switch to a natural diet, I was really depressed, thinking we wouldn't be able to eat it very often, as it contains lots and lots of "no-nos"...

Well, it got me thinking the other day when I was craving a little Taco Salad... surely I can find a way to make it healthy, can't I???

And, so I went to the market, shopped around and was thrilled to find that I can, in fact, make it healthy!

Best Ever Taco Salad! (trust me)

Normally, the recipe would call for a bag of Doritos, but that is a HUGE non-natural food and definitely not on our diet, so I found these super yummy and natural chips by Mission. These chips have a bit of a kick, as they have salsa in the flour, but boy are they yummy :)

Now, this might sound crazy, but you will need to take that lovely bag of chips, open it up, sample one or two chips and then crush the rest of them into bite-sized pieces.

Next, take a pound of ground beef or turkey and cook it through.

Add a 1/2 medium-sized onion and cook until translucent.

Drain the fat.

Add taco seasonings according to package for 1 pound of meat.

While meat is cooking, chop 1 medium green pepper, 1 pint of cherry or grape tomatoes, and one head of lettuce. (whatever type you prefer)

In a large bowl, add lettuce, green peppers and tomatoes.

Toss together.

Pour bag of chips on top of salad and toss together.

Add 6oz of shredded cheddar cheese and mix well.

Top with 8oz of Catalina dressing. This was almost the deal breaker for me as 99% of salad dressings contain high fructose corn syrup and we do not eat HFC. However, of all the dressings that Kraft makes, Catalina regular dressing contains none :)

So, I figured we could deal with a little food dye for one day....

If you want to avoid that as well, you can try any type of tangy french dressing, or make your own....

Mix all ingredients together until it resembles this.

Right before you are ready to serve, top with warm meat and toss together.

This is what it should look like :)

Serve and eat!

This makes a large quantity. Perfect for a side-dish for a party or a simple meal at home...

Debi Bouffard is mom to NINE kiddos and manages to come up with the greatest recipes. I am thrilled to have her contribute to the gift guide with some easy alternative recipes for those families with kids who need gluten free options. Debi writes over at Who Say's 8 Is Enough? Visit her and get to know more about her, her family, and her love of photography!

Nanna's Bread Pudding

2010-10-02T22:30:00.000-04:00

Post courtesy of Debi from Who Say's 8 Is Enough. This is her grandmother's recipe, and she is being awesome and sharing it with you guys. Seriously, I think this would be either great as a brunch item or awesome for breakfast. Who says "dessert" has to be just desserts?!

Start out with a large loaf of raisin bread. I made this one in my bread machine, but you can just buy one at your local bakery or grocery store if you don't want to make your own. (or, just use two loaves of whatever brand name loaves you can find)

Cut 4 to 5 thick slices and then cut those into 1 inch pieces.

Place into an ungreased baking dish.

I used a large oval Corning Ware piece. (not sure dimensions, but I would guess 10 inch )

Heat 2 1/2 c. milk in a saucepan over medium heat, but DO NOT bring to a boil.

Remove from heat.

Place 4 large eggs in a large bowl

Add 3/4 c. sugar and 1 tsp. vanilla and beat together.

Add milk to the beaten mixture, making sure it isn't hot enough to scramble the eggs.

Add a pinch of salt.

Mix together very well.

Pour over bread, making sure to saturate every piece.

Sprinkle with cinnamon, if desired.

Place into a pre-heated oven at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes or until set. (it should look like custard)

Serve warm or cold.

We like to serve ours warm with fresh seasonal berries.

ENJOY!

Super Easy Natural Chocolate Eclair Squares

2010-10-02T22:27:00.000-04:00

This recipe is courtesy of Debi from Who Say's 8 Is Enough? If you are looking for a great dessert that is gluten free and okay for a little one with Celiac's Disease, then this is right up your alley. Enjoy.

Today is my son David's birthday. He is turning 17!
I know!
I have a son that is SEVENTEEN!
So, for his birthday dinner, we will be making a delicious gluten-free, flour-free cake since David has Celiac's Disease.
However, last night was his party and we needed a dessert for celebrating then too, so I made this family favorite for everyone and made a small one for David using gluten-free graham crackers.
I had originally found this recipe many moons ago here, but having made the change over to a natural diet, I decided to make it naturally and it turned out just as fantastic as before.
YUMMY!
Super Easy...
Natural Chocolate Eclair Squares
Ingredients
2 cups cold milk, divided
1 pkg. (4-serving size) Dr. Oetker Organic Vanilla Pudding
1 pt Heavy Whipping Cream, 1/4 c sugar
22 New Morning Honey Graham crackers
4 squares BAKER'S Unsweetened Chocolate
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter or margarine
1-1/2 cups powdered sugar
Prepare pudding according to pie directions, adding 1 3/4 cup of milk to mix. Whisk together and chill in refrigerator for a few minutes.
Pour heavy whipping cream and sugar into a mixing bowl and beat on HIGH until very stiff peaks form.
Gently fold whipped cream into chilled pudding.
Line the bottom of 13x9 pan with graham crackers. Pour half of the pudding mixture on top and spread out evenly. Place another layer of graham crackers on top of pudding and repeat pudding layer.
Top with a layer of graham crackers.
Melt butter and chocolate in microwave safe bowl for 1 1/2 minutes. Stir until chocolate is completely melted. Add remaining milk and powdered sugar. Stir until well blended.
Pour immediately on top of graham crackers.
Refrigerate for 4 hours before serving.

ENJOY!
ps Although David isn't a fan of the gluten-free graham crackers normally, in this dessert he said they were delicious :)

Debi Bouffard is mom to NINE kiddos and manages to come up with the greatest recipes. I am thrilled to have her contribute to the gift guide with some easy alternative recipes for those families with kids who need gluten free options. Debi writes over at Who Say's 8 Is Enough? Visit her and get to know more about her, her family, and her love of photography!

Popsicle Puzzles

2010-09-29T22:34:00.000-04:00

This isn't just a Christmas Craft, but it we managed to make it into one. You can really do this for any time.

Popsicle Puzzles are super easy to make, and are really fun for your budding artists. I came across this craft in a magazine while sitting in the dentist office not to long ago. I thought it would be a great Friday Craft project for homeschooling, and since we are getting ready for Christmas around here in Monkey Land, I got Kenzie to do a Christmas themed one to show off here.

Supplies needed:

Popsicle sticks ($2 for a big pack of them at AC Moore)

Tape (any you have on hand will work)

Crayons

Markers

Take 10 (or more) popsicle sticks and tape them together in a flat square. Turn over and draw a design on the non-tapped side. Again, this can be ANYTHING! Take the tape off, and mix up the pieces. Your little ones can rearrange the pieces back into the original picture they drew.

This would be a great little gift from your kiddos to Grandparents (I Love You or something equally cute), to brothers and sisters, or a lucky friend.

K'Nex

2010-09-24T22:20:00.000-04:00

One of my boys favorite toys this year has definitely been K'Nex. With a wide range of licensed products like Sesame Street and and Nascar you will be sure to find one that will pique your little one's imagination. And isn't that really the best gift you can give your kids for Christmas? The ability to let their imagination run wild without the aid of a television?

With Braden getting older we have moved up into the smaller pieces that make even more intricate designs. Like the Pirate Adventure 20 Modeling Set. This set is pretty awesome. Even with the gazillion itty bitty pieces it contains. Please keep in mind that with this set, if you have really young kids in the house, you will want to keep this out of reach. If not only for your sanity in having to find all the pieces, but for the sake of not letting little bit choke on the pieces. This is a 5+ kit and I would venture to even say it is for MATURE 5 year olds. Braden has done remarkably well with the set, but I do have to stay on him about picking up all the pieces when he is done playing with it. The building set gives you pictures of 20 different models you can build with the pieces included. The cost for the Pirate Adventure set is $25.99.

We were also sent a couple of other sets to review and let you know whether they are something you might want to add to your Christmas shopping list. One of them was the K'Nex Big Building Tub. This was an instant HIT! Not just with the twins but with Braden as well. It contains 50 pieces that are perfect for little hands that are learning to build and put the pieces together. Complete with eyes, arms, and all the connectors you could need to make 11 different models. Plus whatever else your little monkey can dream up. This building set is geared for kids ages 3+. I would even go and say that with parent supervision and parent play help 18 months + could play and enjoy this set. Did I mention that the tub is totally durable? It has been stood upon, sat on, and tossed. Yet it still retains all its shape. Easily stackable so if you purchase other tub sets you can store them all together! The price for the Big Building Tub is $20.99.

Last, but definitely not least to Colton, was the Space Adventure Talking Elmo. I have to admit, I have not heard it talk. It is suppose to say two phrases, but when it is built Colton will not let anyone near it. I think we will have to build personal shelf for Elmo. LOL This building set contains 31 pieces and is very easy to assemble. It comes complete with Elmo and his moon rover. Your little monkey will spend hours exploring his room, er moon, with this set. The Space Adventure Talking Elmo building set costs $24.99.

Not only is K'Nex a brand you can trust to give you durable long lasting toys, it is a brand that truly believes in giving back. We were sent duplicates of all the above items to send to Toys For Tots this year! How awesome is that. While I know my readers would have loved a giveaway, I also know you can appreciate helping kids in need. While we all sit around our trees there are so many out there who don't get anything under theirs. Shoot they are lucky if they have a tree. Having been in their situation and wondering where the heck Christmas was coming I strive to even harder to make sure others have a little. So I am thrilled to let you know that K'Nex is a brand that gives back to the community. A brand that I can stand behind for all the RIGHT reasons! And you can as well.

Unique gifts from Novica

2010-09-20T10:05:00.000-04:00

Yes I am totally aware of the fact that awesomeness is probably not a word. But you know what, when there isn't a word that will work, you make one up! I am thrilled to be still talking about the sponsors I was fortunate to have for Blogmania. One of the big sponsors was Novica. They gave away a $100 gift certificate in the Enjoy and Indulge prize pack.

When I was approached about working with Novica on a promotion I had never heard of them. Have you? Well, now I am really glad I know about them. Novica is partnered up with National Geographic, and they work hard to give artisans from around the world a spot where they can get their art seen and sold. You will find everything from home goods to jewelry at Novica.

When it comes to decorating your home with one of a kind beautiful pieces, you will find it on the home decor side of Novica. You will also be pleasantly surprised to know that you will not have to break the bank to get a beautiful piece. Paintings, bowls, and even decorative dolls are found on the site. Prices start under $50 and do go up. You can find that one accent or find a splurge item to make a statement. I am telling you, Novica has it all! Talk about Christmas gift smorgasboard!

Not only does Novica offer some gorgeous home decor accessories but they also have some absolutely stunning jewelry! You can find everything from bridal jewelry to mens jewelry. All made by some pretty extraordinary artists. The jewelry offers you a wide price point to work with. From well under $50 to well over $100.

Novica offers you so many reasons to like them. I don't know if you recall, but last year I wrote a post about ways to lend money to help others. I talked about Microloans. Well Novica is involved with offering artists loans to help them get their passion out there and seen. It is a great way to give back and know EXACTLY who and where your money is going.

When it comes time to shop for some of your favorite people (or even just people you want to impress) be sure to check out Novica. Anyone lucky enough to receive a gift from Novica will be thinking that you are one generous individual and that you have exceptional taste. Of course shopping through Novica does make you both of those! LOL

Whiplash Scooter

2010-09-20T00:16:00.000-04:00

Have you seen the really scary skateboards? You know the ones that require actual concentration and actual body movement to keep the momentum going? Well, if you have seen those and thought they looked pretty cool, then you will love the Whiplash Scooter. It is for the more timid. At least a little less timid. As many wipe outs as Kenzie has a day on it, I think I will refrain from even trying. LOL Of course, put an uncoordinated child who is already accident prone on a scooter like the Whiplash and you expect a few wipe-outs. She keeps getting back on it though. Braden absolutely loves the scooter and can work it like a pro. The Whiplash is a self-propelled scooter that requires the rider to not have too do too much other than ride!

The Whiplash features a rear caster wheel, it folds for easy storage and transportation, has Wave Torsion Self propelling technology, an extra wide skate inspired flexing deck, and is really light weight. Oh, and did I mention it holds up to 200 pounds. So feel free to jump on after the kids if you are lighter than that and have the urge.

From the site:
The Whiplash™ is a self-propelling, revolutionary new ride. It is part scooter, part Wave board (caster board) and totally fun. The Whiplash Scooter’s flexing deck and handlebar fuse together to provide riders with a cool, side to side, whip-like ride. Riders can self-propel the scooter so that their feet never touch the ground or ride it like a a traditional scooter.

We got the Whiplash in not to long ago amid some shipping issues. It was so easy to put together and the kids were riding it within 10 minutes of the UPS man dropping it off. Of course it was raining out so they were riding in circles under the carport. But boy as soon as the rain stopped it was wide open. Every day since, it is a battle of who can get outside fastest to get on the Whiplash Scooter. I foresee another being purchased for Christmas. LOL

We are still working on the whole self propelling thing. But luckily you can visit the Whiplash website and learn how to ride it!

The Whiplash Scooter would make an excellent Christmas gift for any kiddo. I would give this to the 5+ age group. If they are tall enough to see over the bar, place their feet across the bar, and have a semi sense of balance then they will love this scooter. It costs $79.99, and can be purchased directly from Whiplash website. You can also find a store near you HERE.

Thirty-One gifts

2010-09-14T11:00:00.000-04:00

My name is Heather Bjorklund and I am a stay at home and home-school mom of three girls. I started selling Thirty-One because first of all I wanted everything. I went to a Thirty-One party that I had never heard of just to get out and that night I knew I just had to join the company. I get to go out and socialize and have fun helping reward women for their hard work. And my reward is new friends with the bonus of a paycheck. My husband lost his job and this is my way of helping my family as well as all the other moms....

Our products are a must have. Sure you can go to any big chain store or boutique and buy the stuff you need but this is so much more....You are helping moms help their families. You will hear stories and see lives change from Thirty-One. Our motto is Celebrate,Encourage, Reward

Thirty-One was started by Cindy Monroe who wanted more time with here family and boutique products without the price. And seven years later she has helped to change the lives of so many families. The name Thirty-One was derived from Proverbs 31 which describes a virtuous woman who exhibits hard work, wisdom and encouragement and care for others. Because of these qualities she is worthy of reward, honor and praise. This is all of us moms!Grandmas!Great Grandmas.

The products speak for themselves they have helped me to look stylish while organizing my life and home. What more could you ask for!!! Call me today to book a show and I will help you find products to organize your life for free. Check out the catalog online at my website.

I know you will love Thirty-One

Heather is a homeschooling mom like myself! If you can't book a party through her, you can still purchase products directly from the website, or find a consultant in your area by visiting HERE.

Melissa and Doug Puzzles, Puzzles, Puzzles!

2010-09-01T00:23:00.000-04:00

I am a HUGE Melissa & Doug fan. Their wooden toys are my favorites and they outlast my ~~terrors~~ sweet angles. Not only are the toys durable, but they offer such a great way to learn that I can never turn one down when I find it on sale. I have to admit though, that I hadn't been hooked on Melissa & Doug until after I had the twins. One of the girls from my owl twin moms group told me about the products and was raving about them so much that I had to check them out.

After being in business for 20 years and coming a long ways from their first wooden toy (The Fuzzy Farm Puzzle), Melissa & Doug now offers wooden puzzles, doll houses, room decor, art supplies, and everything in between!

My favorite puzzles are the Alphabet puzzles. We were sent the Alphabet Sound Puzzle, which I am using with the boys homeschooling work each day. It helps to add a little fun into the learning process. Each letter is set to say the letter and something that starts with that letter when you place the matching puzzle piece into the board. Another nifty fact with the Alphabet Sound Puzzle is that each piece is the same color as the picture in the puzzle board. Just another way to help your little one catch on to which one goes where. And since the puzzle pieces are chunky, it makes it easy for preschoolers to be able to handle the pieces easily.

I also love love love the floor puzzles that you can get from Melissa & Doug. There is a floor puzzle theme for all the kiddos tastes. Savanna is definitely a girly girl so I opted to go with the Fairy Tale Castle Floor Puzzle for them to review. This puzzle gets put together DAILY. The pieces are big so I don't have to worry about them being lost all over the house. It is easy and quick, which allows Savanna plenty of time to complete the puzzle before she is distracted, and it is just so darn pretty to look at. I keep thinking I may get one of those puzzle mats and glue the pieces down and frame it. It contains 48 pieces and measures a whooping 2'x3' when you have it put together.

And while we are on the topic of puzzles and incorporating them into homeschooling...If you are trying to help your little one learn to read, then be sure to check out the See and Spell wooden toy in the Melissa & Doug classic toys. This has been an AMAZING tool for Savanna as well as Braden and the twins. With Savanna's disabilty (specifically her working memory doesn't work right, so she has to be very visual with her learning style) this has made it much easier to work with her learning to read proficiently. It also is making it easier for the boys to learn as well. They can see exactly what they are spelling as they spell it. See the letters they are placing in each spot. I am loving this toy.

Each of these toys would make an excellent Christmas gift for your little ones. And they also would make a wonderful addition to any home classroom (or a gift for your preschoolers/kindergartners classroom!). Check out all the great quality eco-friendly toys available at Melissa & Doug.

Growing Tree Toys Alex Toys Friends 4 Ever Bracelet Kit

2010-08-31T23:52:00.000-04:00

My daughters are getting to that age when it is difficult to find things that they really will like and play with for awhile. Opposed to "Oh mom this cool" and then 5 minutes later it is forgotten. With my girls if it involves something artsy they are more likely to go hide with it and spend hours using it. Thankfully Growing Tree Toys has a good selection of educational toys that are perfect for them and their little creative minds. One of the products that we were able to try was the Alex Toys Friends 4 Ever Bracelet Kit. I don't know if you remember, but last year I reviewed the Butterfly Friendship Bracelet Maker thingy, and while it was easy to use, we LOVED the Alex Toys one a ton more.

The Friends 4 Ever Bracelet Kit from Alex Toys allows kids to show the world that they are so important to each other that they share and wear their imaginative bracelet masterpieces everywhere they go! A super-stocked craft kit for best friends, the Friends 4 Ever Bracelet Kit includes 4 color-coded foam looms, which allow kids to make 2 distinct bracelet styles in 8 funky patterns; 22 colors of floss; funky beads for adding special accents; and a beading needle, making it easy for kids to create unique friendship bracelets in no time. Plus, this fabulous Friends 4 Ever Bracelet Kit is the friendship kit that features a convenient, take-me-anywhere storage suitcase with handle for on-the-go fun that friends will love. The newest and trendiest way to make bracelets, the Friends 4 Ever Bracelet Kit from Alex Toys is the ultimate jewelry kit for kids that have already decided that they are "BFF's!" Instructions included.

Features

Bracelet kit in a great suitcase that includes 4 color-coded looms, 22 colors of floss, beads, and beading needle
Make 2 bracelet styles in 8 patterns
Instructions included

This kit is so easy to make a friendship bracelet with that even Braden got in on the fun and made one. It just involves moving a little disc around and around and around. Repetitive it is. The Alex Toys Friends 4 Ever Bracelet Kit costs $24.95 and is suggested for ages 8 and up. If one of the girlies on your list is into art and making stuff, then this will be a hit!

Learning Curve's Dinosaur Train

2010-08-31T23:38:00.000-04:00

I am a big believer in PBS and the shows that they put out for kids to watch. One of our favorites by far is Dinosaur Train. I don't know many little boys who don't love learning about dinosaurs, and most little girls are secretly enthralled by the big animals as well!

Learning Curve is bringing the Dinosaur Train fun right into your home with their new line of Dinosaur Train toys. Directly inspired by the familiar sights, sounds and iconic characters of the popular preschool series from The Jim Henson Company seen daily on PBS KIDS® (check local listings), the new Dinosaur Train product line brings dinosaur play to life like never before. With many of the items available for under $20, the innovative preschool product line includes interactive dinosaur action figures, collectible dinosaurs, plush, train sets, and electronic learning aids. To get a first hand look at the line, I also wanted to send you 3 really cute and funny videos Learning Curve created that feature children interacting with the new toys and the product designers talking about how the items were created.

What makes these toys great is the smart talk technology that has been integrated into each of the toys. The innovative preschool product line includes interactive dinosaur action figures, collectible dinosaurs, plush and train sets, and is available at major retailers across the country. With the Dinosaur Train InterAction Figures your little one will spend lots of time playing and learning about his favorite dinos from the show. In addition to being able to recognize and respond to other Dinosaur Train InterAction Figures, each character is fully articulated and is packed with one-of-a-kind dinosaur features, including a minimum of 40 dinosaur sounds, facts and character phrases. With multiple activation touch points that trigger a signature dinosaur feature, such as stomping or chomping, Dinosaur Train InterAction Figures provide hours of interactive and imaginative fun all by themselves or alongside the other dinosaur friends in Learning Curve’s line.

In addition to the Dinosaur Train InterAction Figures, key items in the Dinosaur Train line making their debut at retailers nationwide include Dinosaur Train Dinosaur and Train Car 2-packs, a detailed collectible dinosaur figure and a train car decorated to match the specific character; and Lights and Sounds Dinosaur Train, a colorful prehistoric train set that expands to fit additional dinosaur friends and their special train cars.

We were actually sent two of the Dinosaur Train InterAction Figures to play around with. Tiny is my favorite from the show and she is pterodactyl. She has over 40 phrases and sounds that she makes/says. The other one was Buddy. Buddy is the misplaced T-Rex being raised by a family of pterodactyl's (Tiny is his sister). Like Tiny he says over 40 phrases/sounds. It is really cool getting them together and letting them interactwith each other. This is alone will keep em enthralled for a good few bit! Talk about a lot of giggling going on in my living room when they started playing with. All most as much as when we went and checked them out online to see all the items in the line. Connor and Colton have taken over the ones we were sent, so I can definitely see having to get at least one more for Braden. My daughters actually pouted because they didn't get them!

Check out Learning Curve's complete Dinosaur Train line of toys on their website. You can locate a place to purchase the items, watch cool videos showing you more about how the InterAction line works, and get a giggle out of your little one by playing around with the Games and More section!

Learning Curve Thomas and Friends Wooden Railway

2010-08-14T23:27:00.000-04:00

Great products for little minds seem to be abundant in the toy industry. But finding a company that has toys that have been parent tested, parent approved, and that offers a range of toys from infant to preschooler is a harder job. Thankfully we have Learning Curve to turn to!

Learning Curve offers developmental toys that engage children, and provide parents with peace of mind, knowing their children are being inspired and enlightened by safe and quality playthings. And our care, safety, feeding and soothing products provide you with solutions to day-to-day needs at mealtime, bedtime, at home and on-the-go..

One of the newest additions is the new Thomas and Friends Wooden Railway. This wooden railway set is perfect for introducing your little one to the joys of trains. The age specified for the products are 18 months+. My boys being 3 and 5 are a bit older than that, but they still had a blast putting the pieces together and building the railroad. We were sent the Early Engineers Roundabout Station Set to review, and I will have to say that my first thought was that this was going to be super easy for the boys to put together and take apart on their own. It is.

The Early Engineers line offers young train lovers their first stop in wooden train play. Chunky vehicles, sturdy tracktiles, and simple destinations are just right for little hands. And, since Early Engineers is compatible with any Thomas Wooden Railway products, the journey continues as your toddler grows

The Roundabout Station Set includes Tracktile, Maithwaite Station, Thomas, crossing gate, spinning cargo and two track connectors. It can easily be added to with the other pieces in the Thomas and Friends Wooden Railway line. I do plan on purchasing more of these for Christmas for the boys. It makes a great item that they can all share and play with together. Especially when we get a couple of more train pieces and some more track to add! At a cost of $24.99 it isn't too bad a deal for the brand you are buying and the durability of the product. I can really see this toy lasting for a while around here.

You can purchase all your Learning Curve products from www.learningcurve.com or you can find a store located near you by visiting the Where to Buy page on the website.