7 Şubat 2013 Perşembe

Flexibility and Usefulness Abound with the Magic Whiteboard!

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Magic Whiteboard Product Review: 

Full Review by Rebecca @ Love2EncourageYouIt has been fun getting the opportunity to test out a new and creative product for the first time using a thin, flexible roll sheet from the Magic Whiteboard. This sheet was 8.5x11 and came with a free dry erase marker. My kids were absolutely tickled to give it a try. We were all fascinated with the fact that it was so thin and easy to use just about anywhere as it clings to the surface top of wherever you set it. It's also completely perfect for family car rides in need of some entertainment or homework practice using a book or clipboard to set it on. The Magic Whiteboard is very flexible and lightweight. You could literally roll it up and put it in your purse or bookbag and take it with you wherever you go.

Magic Whiteboard products have a variety of different styles to choose from. Here's a neat video clip on Youtube to watch the Magic Whiteboard in action!


The Magic Whiteboard can have so many great uses in many locations. We ended up using it in our kitchen on the refrigerator, on the kid's playroom desk, on my desktop, at the kitchen table, and even out on the patio table by the pool! It can be attached to a clip board and brought in the car, to the park, over a friend's house and most importantly to our homeschool co-op where I teach a writing/reading class to the early elementary aged kids in the group. We took turns practicing our letters and writing their names with the Magic Whiteboard and dry erase marker that was included. Thanks Magic Whiteboard for allowing me to give this unique and handy tool a try! We will continue to find more great ways to use this flexible and travel handy product for writing/drawing practice and leaving messages to loved ones. The Magic Whiteboard is very helpful for homeschool families. Parents and kids on the go will benefit from having this unique and lightweight Magic Whiteboard available as well. Use it on your clipboard when helping or coaching at the soccer field, at dance practice, little league games, and more! We even had fun putting it on the door to draw pictures during art class. :) It really is amazing how the static cling effect just makes it stick to any flat surface! Very impressive!



I give this product a 5/5 stars for usefulness, flexibility, and being travel friendly!Want to learn more about the fun product sizes and uses the Magic Whiteboard has to offer? Follow them on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date and read more about this great product.
*Disclosure: I received a free sheet of Magic Whiteboard and a dry erase pen to go with it in exchange for a review.  Regardless, I only share my honest viewpoint on products that I feel would be of interest to my readers. My opinions are my own and may differ from your own.
I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Many blessings,
Rebecca

*Some links in this post or on this website may contain affiliate links.

Noxicare: Natural Pain Relief Cream Review

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Noxicare Natural Pain Relief Cream Product Review:

Do you suffer from muscle aches and pains or soreness and stiffness associated with arthritis? I deal with this on a daily basis, so when I heard I was getting to review a free tube of Noxicare™ Natural Pain Relief cream, I was very excited. I had already heard very good things about Noxicare natural pain reliever and was hopeful that it might be a helpful addition to my daily routine to get me through my day. I suffer from regular pain and stiffness in my back due to severe Scholiosis and arthritis conditions that have creeped in too.

Here is Noxicare's official product description:  "Noxicare™ Natural Pain Relief is a breakthrough natural, patented pain relief formula that is a proprietary combination of 7 of the world’s most potent natural pain relievers that quickly and effectively alleviate inflammation, muscle aches and nerve pain (burning feet)—with NO known side effects and without a prescription."

 I've tried the product for a few days now, trying to use it mostly when my lower back pain and stiffness occurs. I also use it on the back of my neck and shoulders when I get aches and pains from sitting at the computer too long. :) I found that I gained some relief in a reasonable amount of time after applying the product. I also felt significantly less soreness after using Noxicare Natural Pain Relief Cream which helped alleviate much of my back stiffness. The cream actually has a very pleasant scent as well so I don't mind using it as needed. I am thankful for the opportunity to try this natural pain relief product from Noxicare. I feel better knowing I am using a product that has ingredients that work towards natural pain relief instead of using harsh ingredients that might cause side effects. I give this product a 5/5 for convenience (tube fits easily into my purse for on the go pain relief needs) and a 4/5 for decreasing pain to a tolerable level so I can get through my day.

I recommend following Noxicare on Facebook and Twitter. You can also subscribe to their Youtube channel.
Noxicare™ Natural Pain Relief

GIVEAWAY TIME!
Prize: 2 Winners will each receive one tube of Noxicare Natural Pain Relief Cream
Date: 1/30/2013 to 2/09/2013 at 12:01am
Location: Must be a resident of the USA
Age:  Must be 18 years or older to enter this giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway



*Disclosure: I received a free tube of Noxicare Natural Pain Relief Cream in exchange for a review. Regardless, I only share my honest opinions and try to bring product review posts to my readers that will be of interest to them. My opinions are my own and may differ from yours. Love2EncourageYou is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment.
I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Many blessings,
Rebecca

*Some links in this post or on this website may contain affiliate links.

Watch Author, Kim Moore of Now That's Romantic! on TV Feb 4th! Plus Free Shipping Offer

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Time to shine some much deserved attention on a fantastic lady who is not only a successful author, but also a passionate advocate for romancing your spouse and keeping the love in marriage alive. May I kindly introduce you to Kim Moore, author of Now That's Romantic!


It is my great honor to announce this exciting news on behalf of Kim Moore:

Kim Moore has been invited to make a TV appearance sharing about her book, Now That's Romantic! and will be featured on Charley's World, Good Day Tampa Bay on Fox Channel 13 during the Week of Romance! We want to invite each of you to enjoy watching the show on Monday, February 4 and come back here and tell us what your thoughts are on the broadcast. Don't forget to set your DVR for 7:30am - 9:30am if you won't be able to watch the segment during the scheduled air time.

"For those of you who didn’t get to see it on TV, here is a link to the four segments I did with Charley Belcher.  Thanks,  Kim"
http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/story/20956059/2013/02/04/revamping-your-romance

We are having a special giveaway for our readers here at Love2EncourageYou blog so stop back daily to gain additional entries for a chance to win an autographed copy of Kim Moore's book, Now That's Romantic!

VALENTINE'S SPECIAL:
In honor of Charley's World, Week of Romance Monday, February 4 through Friday, February 8th:
Kim Moore will be offering free shipping on her book at www.nowthatsromantic.com!
*Remember to join us in supporting author, Kim Moore during her TV appearance on Monday, February 4, 2013 from 7:30am to 9:30am on Charley's World, Good Day Tampa Bay on Fox 13.

Don't miss a moment of the excitement! Follow Kim Moore and Now That's Romantic! on Facebook and Twitter. Visit her website for Now That's Romantic! and learn more about this amazing book and the author behind it.

Disclosure: I received monetary compensation for sharing this press release/post.

Many blessings,
Rebecca


*Some links in this post or on this website may contain affiliate links.

Valentine Gift Idea: Now That's Romantic! Hardcover Book Giveaway

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Here's a wonderful Valentine's Day Gift Idea your spouse is sure to appreciate! Put together a creative themed dinner for two for your Valentine using the tips and hints and step by step instructions inside Kim Moore's beautifully illustrated book, Now That's Romantic! and surprise your love with a romantic evening they'll treasure for years to come. "Each roomscape comes complete with a Things You’ll Need list, Let’s Put It Together instructions, Sounds & Scents suggestions and What to Wear clothing ideas for both men and women. There’s also a Time Line to pull it all together so nothing falls through the cracks." -per the www.nowthatsromantic.com website.

Cover Price: $29.95
8½ x 11 Hard Cover
Color illustrations
120 pages
For a Limited Time Only: Free Shipping with every book purchase!
Offer valid: Feb 4th-Feb 8th, 2013 when purchased through their website at www.nowthatsromantic.com.


 Don't forget to catch author, Kim Moore on TV on Fox channel 13 on Feb 4th on the Charley's World Good Day Tampa Bay Morning Show! This special Valentine episode for Romance Monday airs from 7:30am to 9:30am. Eastern Time.


 Giveaway Time! 
Prize: One winner will receive a hardcover book, Now That's Romantic! signed by author, Kim Moore. $30 value

Location: Must be a resident of the lower 48 states.

Date: 1/31/2013 - 2/10/2013 at 12:01 am

Age: Must be 18 years of age or older to enter this giveaway.

*Please allow the Rafflecopter form to load and then enter the two mandatory entries in order to unlock the rest of the optional additional entries. The more entries you submit, the higher your chances of winning.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Don't have time to wait for the giveaway to end? Why not purchase a copy of Kim Moore's book Now That's Romantic! today? If you make a purchase between Feb 4-Feb 8, you'll receive FREE SHIPPING with any book purchased.

Disclosure: I received monetary compensation for posting and promoting this giveaway. Regardless, I only share information that I feel is beneficial to my readers.

Many blessings,
Rebecca


*Some links in this post or on this website may contain affiliate links. (Photos courtesy of Kim Moore and NowThat'sRomantic!)

HUGE List of NEW Coupons for February!

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 Greetings my friends! Happy Friday!
I hope you are having a terrific start to your weekend and a great kick-off to the month of February! I was tickled pink to receive my bouquet of flowers to review today on February 1st. I absolutely adore roses! :)
I also was taking time to make my grocery list this evening when I noticed a brand new month of coupons came out! Here are some of the best available. Enjoy!

Coupons are so helpful in shaving a few dollars off the grocery bill and extending your budget a little farther. Whether you need baby items, breakfast foods, snacks or laundry detergent...there is a something here for everyone in this huge coupon list! Hope you save a few bucks with this post. :)

 Baby Stuff
    $1.50 off ONE Pampers Baby Dry Diapers
  • $2.00 off ONE Pampers Easy Ups Diapers
  • $1.50 off ONE Pampers Swaddlers Diapers
  • $1.50 off ONE Pampers Cruisers Diapers
  • $0.50 off ONE Pampers Wipes 60 ct. or larger

Breakfast Stuff (Are you hungry?)
  • $1.00 off any (1) Silk Iced Latte half gallon
  • $0.40 off any 2 Pillsbury Grands! or Sweet Rolls
  • $0.40 off SIX Yoplait Yogurt
  • $0.75 off any TWO Yoplait Kid products
  • $0.50 off 2 Yoplait Greek yogurt
  • $0.50 off Yoplait Fruplait™ Yogurt Multipacks
  • $0.50 off Yoplait Pro-Force Multipack or twisted
  • $0.75 off one Cascadian Farm product
  • $1.00 off any 3 Kellogg's Cereals listed
  • $0.75 off any ONE BOX Total cereal
  • $0.50 off ONE BOX Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal
  • $0.75 off 1 BOX Peanut Butter Toast Crunch™ cereal
  • $0.50 off ONE BOX Chex cereal
  • $0.50 off ONE BOX Original Cheerios cereal
  • $0.75 off Honey Nut Cheerios Medley Crunch cereal
  • $0.75 off Fiber One 80 Calories Chocolate cereal
  • $0.50 off ONE Bisquick Baking Mix
  • $1.00 off 3 Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Cereal Bars

 Snack Stuff
  • $0.55 off Mott's Snack & Go Applesauce Pouches
  • $0.50 off 2 Nature Valley Granola Bars or thins
  • $0.50 off 2 boxes Fruit Flavored Snacks
  • $0.50 off Green Giant™ Veggie Snack Chips
  • $0.50 off 1 Fiber One Protein Chewy Bars
  • $0.40 off Fiber One Chewy Bars
  • $1.00 off TWO Pillsbury Refrigerated Cookie Dough
  • $0.75 off 2 SUGAR-FREE JELL-O refrigerated snacks
  • $1.00 off 5 Totino's Crisp Crust Party Pizza
  • $2.00 off Ball Park Flame Grilled Patties
 
Misc Stuff
  • $3.00 off Citracal and Bayer Aspirin Product
  • $6.00 off two (2) Prevacid24HR 28ct or 42ct
  • $2.00 off Prevacid24HR Product
  • $2.00 off any (2) all detergent products
  • $1.00 off Bayer Aspirin product 24 ct or larger
  • $2.00 off any TWO Pantene Expert Collection
  • $2.00 off 1 GARNIER NUTRISSE Color Foam Haircolor
  • $2.00 off L'Oreal Healthy Look Creme Hair Color

 Wow! What a great list of coupons! My favorites are the ones for All detergent products, hair color, Pillsbury cookie dough, Bisquick, and Bayer Aspirin. What are your favorites?

Many blessings,
Rebecca

*Some links in this post or on this website may contain affiliate links.

6 Şubat 2013 Çarşamba

File Your Taxes Free Online With This Special Offer!

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I don't know about you, but I've been researching all the various ways to get my taxes filed in an organized fashion and trying to find the cheapest but most reliable method possible. H & R Block have been doing tax preparation for many of my friends over the years, so when I was given the opportunity to share this great offer from H&R Block to my readers, I figured it would be helpful to a lot of you. I hope it will be a blessing! Just click on the picture below when you are ready to get started.



H&R Block ® is your single source for tax preparation and online tax services. You can file income taxes online or using their great tax preparation software to e-file taxes. AND, now, with this special offer, you can complete your federal tax return using H&R Block's online product for free. (State returns are an additional fee.)
  • Don't file until you're satisfied
  • H&R Block ® offers free expert advice
  • Max refund--guaranteed
  • Free audit support and representation (only from H&R Block)

 *More great deals and freebies coming your way in February! Check back often for lots of awesome giveaways to enter to win too! Want to enter a few giveaways right now? Check out the current list available on my Giveaways/Linkys Page. Good luck to all!

Many blessings,
Rebecca

 *Some links in this post or on this website may contain affiliate links.

 If you like this blog, please vote for us by clicking on the picture below. You can do this daily! Just one click and you're done. That's it! :) We appreciate your support!


Get Your Valentine Free Admission to Dinosaur World!

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Who would love to enjoy a special Valentine's treat with over 150 of the sweetest prehistoric dinos on the planet? Well here's the way to get your chance! Dinosaur World has a great Valentine offer

Bring your sweetheart with you to Dinosaur World and they get in free with your paid admission! Valid from Thursday, February 14, 2013 through Sunday, February 17th, 2013.  

Not valid with other offer. (Please note: This offer only applies to adult admissions. One free sweetie per paid adult admission.)

For ease of reference, I've included the info for all three Dinosaur World parks. Have a super time with your sweetie at Dinosaur World this Valentine's Day Weekend!

DINOSAUR WORLD -
PLANT CITY, FL
5145 Harvey Tew Road
Plant City, Florida 33565
(813) 717-9865

DINOSAUR WORLD -
CAVE CITY, KY
711Mammoth Cave Road
Cave City, KY 42127
(270) 773-4345

DINOSAUR WORLD -
GLEN ROSE, TX
1058 Park Road 59
Glen Rose, TX 76043
(254) 898-1526


*We will be holding a giveaway for 4 free single day tickets to Dinosaur World starting Feb 11. Check back for a link to the entry form soon. :) Thanks so much for your support of Love2EncourageYou blog and Dinosaur World!

Check our Giveaways/Linkys Page for other fun giveaways to enter and win!

Many blessings,
Rebecca

*Some links in this post or on this website may contain affiliate links.

Orangutan Diaries by PBS Dvd Product Review

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The Orangutan Diaries: Saving Our Closest Relatives (two disc dvd set) Product Review 

Full Review by Rebecca of Love2EncourageYou


ORANGUTAN DIARIES features stories of hope as this dedicated team attempts to save these fragile animals. During the course of the film, the team introduces the newest and smallest orangutan, baby Arnold, and races through miles and miles of muddy roads hoping to save a young orangutan held illegally in a tiny crate. Sumanto takes a terrifying fall at the centre and fights for his life, while massive male Hercules, the hairiest orangutan you will ever meet, heads off for his annual leave on a river island. 
Lone Droscher Nielson, the centre’s director, is always looking for places where rescued orangutans can be released back into the wild and finally finds a refuge in the heart of Borneo. After months of planning, a handful of rescued orangutans are able to fly away to freedom, including Mama Abut and her baby, found starving on an oil palm plantation but nursed back to health at the centre. Later, the confiscation team sets off on the most demanding rescue yet, with one of the technicians risking his life in a death-defying climb to get Bonny back where she belongs. “ORANGUTAN DIARIES is an emotional roller coaster ride into the heart of the rainforest that presents an inside look at the lives of these animals on the edge. - per PBS Distribution Press Release.
For this unique opportunity to review an educational science and geography related dvd which is great for homeschooling, I decided to observe and listen to the comments and responses from my fifteen year old son and my six year old daughter during the viewing. It was so much fun to not only enjoy this wonderful family friendly documentary on the care and rescue of orangutans, but seeing the minds of my children working and sharing their input on what was happening in each episode was very cool! I highly recommend the Orangutan Diaries dvd from PBS Distribution to families with children/adults of any age. 5/5 Stars for this film!

My 15 year old's viewpoint on the Orangutan Diaries episodes:

"The Orangutan Rescue Team from the Borneo rainforest really care about these orangutans. They are willing to put their own lives in danger just to rescue a single animal. The effort they put into making an Orangutan nursery was cool. They were teaching them to groom themselves, cling to a parent/caregiver, and even had diapers and bottles to take care of them just like babies. It is a very informative video full of tons of great detailed information on the Orangutans and the many dangers they face. I enjoyed watching and learning from the Orangutan Diaries dvd.
I think they should make the Orangutan Diaries into a video game. I feel it would be cool if you have to go through the action and the adventure of locating and confiscating the orangutans in the wild or in the care of an illegal owner. Also, the game could incooperate using the strategy and idea of negotiating with angry villagers who would rather have it killed than hunting down angry poachers. Then finally an Orangutan Diaries video game would simply have the fun and entertainment of building and running the Orangutan Rescue Team's school and nursery so that you can enjoy training and caring for the orangutans and feeding them."

My 6 year old daughter's viewpoint on dvd:

"Awe...the babies are so cute! Look! They even have diapers on! Hehehe. Awe, they are drinking milk out of bottles. That is so sweet those people are taking care of them like mommies."

My daughter also asked questions constantly throughout the video of Orangutan Diaries. She was curious to know more about the orangutans and why they needed to be rescued. It was a wonderful way to have discussions about rain forest animals, especially orangutans, and why it is important to care for the animals that get caught too close to the path of human developments and contruction. She has a stuffed animal orangutan and ran to get it to hold during the video. She loves learning more about them and this video made it so interesting and family friendly that even a 6 year old desired to watch all the episodes. 

As a mom of three and a homeschool teacher, I highly recommend this video series. The Orangutan Diaries: Saving Our Closest Relatives has approximately 250 minutes of video footage on 2 discs. This means you are getting tons of meaningful and educational viewing time for your children to become really acquainted with the orangutan species. Great for homeschool science and geography learning about orangutans and rainforest living. Released on Oct 2, 2012. SRP: $29.99


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Many blessings,

 *Some links in this post or on this website may contain affiliate links.

Balance Bar Valentine Giveaway for your Health-Minded Sweetheart!

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balance bar logo

Valentine BB

Hello my friends! Time for another fun Valentine's Day themed giveaway to enter and win for your sweetheart! This one is for the fitness/health-conscious in mind. :) Isn't it adorable? Can't wait to see who the lucky winner will be! Enjoy this great review from So Cal Coupon Mommy about the Balance Bars.- Rebecca @ Love2EncourageYou

I have always loved working with Balance Bar and received a wonderful "Valentine" from them. Its an awesome Balance Bar tin that had two different kinds of Balance Bars inside. The Balance Bar Gold - Chocolate Mint Cookie Crunch and the Balance Bar - Chocolate Raspberry Bar. They are both beyond amazing and a wonderful pair to fill a tin for that healthy person in your life.

Here is a little about Balance Bar from their website: “Founded in 1992, Balance Bar, one of America’s original nutrition/energy bars, inspires consumers to lead active, well-rounded and balanced lives by providing great-tasting, healthy and convenient nutrition for lasting energy. Balance Bars are available in six unique product lines (Original, Gold, Bare, Café, CarbWell, nimble) and all 23 flavors are based on the 40/30/30 nutrition model (40% of calories come from healthy carbohydrates, 30% from quality protein and 30% from dietary fat).”

Now for a little about the two AMAZING bars that I received:

bar_gold_chocolate_mint_cookie_crunch_large-Balance Bar Gold - Chocolate Mink Cookie Crunch:

Here is the Nutrition at a Glance:
  • 14g Protein
  • 200 Calories
  • Balanced 40-30-30 Nutrition
  • Excellent Source of Antioxidants & Vitamin D
  • 23 Vitamins & Minerals
This is an awesome bar that gives you a yummy cookie crunch with some AWESOME mint flavor! "We've added a crunchier cookie base and more mint flavor to this delicious chocolate cookie bar. The chocolate and cool mint come together in a satisfyingly crunchy delight for a perfect chocolate mint Balance Bar." This is my FAVORITE!

bar_original_chocolate_raspberry_large

-Balance Bar - Chocolate Raspberry:

Here is the Nutrition at a Glance:
  • Gluten Free
  • 4g Fiber
  • 13g Protein
  • 180 Calories
  • Balanced 40-30-30 Nutrition
  • Excellent Source of Antioxidants & Vitamin D
  • 23 Vitamins & Minerals
"These scrumptious 180-calorie bars combine rich, decadent chocolate with just the right hint of sweet raspberry flavor for a taste that's beyond delicious. Plus, they're gluten free and packed with long-lasting energy and balanced nutrition. Talk about a dessert worth indulging in!" My husband really loved this one and says that the flavor is awesome. He really enjoyed the fruit flavor and the chocolate mix.
Click HERE to order yours now! Also, For more information, visit www.Balance.com. Follow Balance Bar for tips and nutritional information on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Balancebar) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/Balancebar).
GIVEAWAY TIME!  Prize:Now for the BEST part. One LUCKY winner will receive a Balance Bar "Valentine"!
Location: This giveaway is open to US residents Age: Must be 18 years and over. 
Enter using the rafflecopter form below. Complete the mandatory entries and it will unlock the additional optional entries following. Please note that if you have won this prize on another blog you are not eligible to win this one.
a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclosure: I did not receive any monetary compensation for this post. Love2EncourageYou is not responsible for shipment of prize.

*It is always fun to have guest posts on the blog. Special thanks to So Cal Coupon Mommy for sharing this great givaway with our readers today!

Many blessings,
Rebecca

*Some links in this post or on this website may contain affiliate links.

Dinosaur Train by PBS KIDS: Talking Dinosaurs and Underwater Adventures Bring Big Smiles!

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Dinosaur Train: Submarine Adventure by PBS KIDS

Get ready for a voyage to the bottom of the sea in the Monday, February 18th premiere of Dinosaur Train "Submarine Adventure" on PBS Kids (check local listings)! 

Here's a preview of the new special:




Full Review by Rebecca @ Love2EncourageYou

My kids were so excited today to see the UPS guy hand us a package containing the newest video from Dinosaur Train called: Dinosaur Train: Submarine Adventure!  What fantastic timing too as we were planning an evening indoors as a family. The kids LOVED helping mom review this fun new Dinosaur Train video on dvd!

My 6 year old daughter thought the show was totally cute. She gets a kick out of the theme song with the dinosaur hatching out of the egg in the Pteronadon nest, but he isn't really a Pteronadon at all - yet momma Pteronadon takes him in as her own just the same. In this dvd, my daughter liked learning about fish in the ocean that lived long ago. She was sad when the dvd was over. She said she really wanted to see more of it! Both my kids insisted I start the dvd all over again once it was over - they enjoyed it that much! They were fascinated with the submarine scenes as an underwater Dinosaur Train. :) The fact that all the dinosaurs talk is always a hit with younger kids ages 2-7.


My 2 year old son had a great time watching this serious of episodes on dvd. He particularly likes the conductor dinosaur. He kept saying, "bubbles" whenever they were underwater too. Fun age to observe watching shows and playing with all their vocabulary popping out. He would get excited about certain parts of the show and repeat certain words the characters said - like an echo or a parrot. Too cute! I think he really likes Dinosaur Train!

Both my kids stayed very engaged and glued to the TV while Dinosaur Train: Submarine Adventure was playing. It is light-hearted and fun-loving in its approach during the shows, and makes for a colorful and pleasant learning experience. I'm a big fan of educational dvds, and during this show the kids learn about many different things. Here is a list of just a few: submarines, dinosaurs that lived in the ocean, sea turtles, the differences in various species in how they handle raising their young, and of course some childhood friendship skills. My children really enjoyed it. Giggles bursting out at times too! I give Dinosaur Train: Submarine Adventure dvd 5/5 stars!

Follow PBS Kids on Facebook!


*Disclosure: Love2EncourageYou received a copy of the Dinosaur Train dvd in exchange for a review. My opinions are my own and may differ from your own. I only share product reviews on items I feel are a good fit for my readers.

Many blessings,
Rebecca

*Some links in this post or on this website may contain affiliate links.

5 Şubat 2013 Salı

Parenting Pointers: Moving to the USA

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Removal to the land of the unlimited possibilities hasbecome a universal dream for people from all over the world. Even the mostdeveloped and advanced European countries register almost one hundred peoplethat immigrate to USA annually. Naturally, this is not an accident, because thelegend about the prosperity you may achieve in the United States in no time hasbeen spreading for the past decades as the strongest truth. Though, we shouldadmit that the removal to USA is not a golden ticket that may provide younumerous of chances to grow in your carrier or earn money for doing nothing.The prosperity and the settlement in USA is a long and difficult process thatactually starts with the removal, which is also not that easy to be managed andexecuted. The removal to USA is a serious thing to do – starting from thecommon packing and mentioning the immigration issues, the administrative dutiesand the expensive fly tickets. 
If a removal to USA is already planned and decided asa firm resolved by you and your family members, get ready for a long and trulyexciting journey. Speaking of excitement, unfortunately, does not mean thatthere will be only some positive emotions and experiences. They say, the worstpart of the removal to USA plan, is getting the green card, if you are animmigrant and apply for a regular and legal VISA. This is the real truthactually, however, as soon as you finish these administrative procedures thatwill take some sums of money every day and in every institutions and the momentthe annoying interviews end, you may say that the worst part is gone and thegreat days are about to begin. So, if you would like all of theseadministrative, law, and VISA things to end normally and quickly, we stronglyrecommend you to work with a special agent in a team. Most of the agencies thatspecialize in the sphere of immigration and living abroad can offer you somegreat opportunities to deal with all of these things in no time and atbudget-friendly cost. Going abroad, especially to USA, where the immigrationservices are truly strict and disciplined (we have all seen their work inpopular American movies as warning to the immigrants) is a serious thing, so donot hesitate to spend some extra money and manage your things with a professionalagent. These companies offer you to write an online application with all ofyour needs, demands, dreams, and possibilities. The results of this applicationwill be the basic information that the agents will use in order to manage yourremoval to USA legally, quickly, and pleasantly. Removal to USA, though,involves a long journey, as well. It is up to you whether you will catch theplain or get on a ship. Sea removal or air removal are the best ways totransport your baggage, too. On the other side, most of the professionalremoval services offer removal packs to USA, so you will be really eased tofind the best opportunity to move to the land of the unlimited possibilitiestogether with your personal belongings. Finally, we suggest you not to be verygenerous, when you have to pay the agent and the removal company. Detach somemoney for the fly tickets – because they are really expensive, if the directionis USA – and save some cash for the first months in The States.
Gina is an author keen on architecture and homeorganizing. Enjoy her tips on Primrosehill house moving , interior design and green living.

Caring Causes: Hurricane Sandy Valentine's Day Initiative

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The Postal Service wants to surprise 650 students at the John C. Thompson School (PS-52) of Staten Island and you can help.  Following Hurricane Sandy, the school was closed from Oct. 31 to Nov. 19. Many children and their families lost everything. Today, the children (grades pre-K to 5) are working hard. Things are getting back to normal but will never be the same.  Operation Bear Hug hopes to February 14th extra special by providing Valentines to every child in the school. Send your Valentine wishes to:  Operation Bear HugPO Box 10213Staten Island NY 10301  Cards will be delivered to each child by the Postal Service’s “I Love You” Bear mascot on Valentine’s Day along with as many hugs as they can bear.  The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations. 

Mealtime Magic: Shrimp and Scallop Fajitas

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 If you made a resolution to eat healthier, consider adding more shrimp to your menu. One three-ounce serving contains just 83 calories and two grams of fat, while delivering healthy omega-3s, essential nutrients and nearly 20 grams of protein.  “Shrimp deserves a place at the table.  It is quick and easy to prepare and it’s the perfect protein addition to scores of everyday meals, from a delicious, down-home shrimp salad to tantalizing Thai and mouth-watering Mexican dishes,” said Judy Dashiell, Senior Vice President, National Fisheries Institute.
Here's a recipe from The Shrimp Council for you to enjoy.
Shrimp and Scallop Fajitas For Grilling
Serves:  Four  Ingredients Fajitas12 large (16 to 20 count) shrimp, peeled and deveined, about 3/4 lb1 large red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded and cut into 20 squares1 large sweet onion, quartered and each quarter cut into half pieces, separated12 sea scallops, about 3/4 lb1 large green bell pepper, stemmed, seeded and cut into 20 squares1/2 teaspoon lime peel, grated1/4 cup fresh lime juice2 Tbsp vegetable oil2 tsp honey1 clove garlic, minced1/4 tsp pepper1/8 tsp salt8 (7- to 9-inch) flour tortillas, warmed  Red and Green Salsa2 firm-ripe avocados, peeled, seeded and chopped into small squares2 tsp lime juice1-1/2 C prepared salsa
Instructions
Thread the shrimp, red pepper and half the onion onto four 12-inch skewers, running the skewer through each shrimp twice.  Thread the scallops, green pepper and remaining onion onto four more skewers.  Place skewers on a large, shallow platter.  Combine the lime peel, lime juice, oil, honey, garlic, pepper and salt and pour the combination over the skewers and marinate, turning occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes.

To make the salsa, toss the avocado with the lime juice and gently stir it into the prepared salsa.  Let stand 20 minutes or refrigerate up to 24 hours.Coat grill rack with vegetable cooking spray.  Place skewers on grill rack 4 to 6 inches above medium-hot coals.  Grill, turning once, about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, just until the seafood is opaque.  Wrap tortillas in aluminum foil and heat them on the grill.To make the fajitas, slide portions of the seafood and vegetables off each skewer into a warm tortilla.  Add "red and green salsa" to taste.  Roll up tortilla to enclose the filling.  Eat fajitas by hand.  Serve with refried beans or Mexican rice, if desired.Nutrition Information492 Calories
48 g Carbohydrates
203 mg Cholesterol
43 g Protein
16 g Fat
634 mg Sodium

 

Consumer Critique: Shick Hydro Silk

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I had a chance to try out the new Shick Hydro Silk as part of bzzagent.com. I loved the handle - it was probably one of the most comfortable razor handles I've ever used. It also gave me a close, comfortable shave, and kept my legs soft. I didn't nick myself at all (usually a problem when I shave) - even in sensitive areas.




Disclosure: I received a complimentary razor as a thank-you for this post.

Thrifty Thinking: Jump-Start Your Retirement Plan

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Kiplinger’s Personal Finance and the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA), in association with the NAPFA Consumer Education Foundation, are teaming up to sponsor Jump-Start Your Retirement Plan Days—two opportunities to make sure Americans are well-equipped for their golden years. NAPFA financial advisors will answer retirement questions for free on February 7 and February 12, 2013, from 9am-5pm EST.
 
There will be four separate chat rooms—each hosted by expert financial advisors—to provide more specific answers to questions across an array of topics:
  • Taxes and Retirement— including gift taxes, estate taxes and wills.
  • Saving for Retirement— IRAs, Roth IRAs and 401(k)s for those building a retirement nest egg.
  • Income in Retirement— Social Security and income investing strategies for those in retirement and about to retire.
  • Other financial challenges— from investing to saving for college to paying down debt.  
 
You can visit http://kiplinger.com/links/jumpstart13 to submit questions and/or read about real retirement-planning challenges. You can also view questions and answers, as well as ask for financial advice, by utilizing the #JumpStartRetire hashtag on Twitter.
 About KiplingerFor nine decades, the Kiplinger organization has led the way in personal finance and business forecasting. Founded in 1920 by W.M. Kiplinger, the company developed one of the nation's first successful newsletters in modern times. The Kiplinger Letter, launched in 1923, remains the longest continuously published newsletter in the United States. In 1947, Kiplinger created the nation's first personal finance magazine. Kiplinger.com is the fastest growing Web site in the personal finance space. Located in the heart of our nation's capital, the Kiplinger editors remain dedicated to delivering sound, unbiased advice for your family and your business in clear, concise language. Become a fan of Kiplinger on Facebook or Kiplinger.com and follow Kiplinger on Tumblr and Twitter.  About NAPFASince 1983, The National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA) has provided Fee-Only financial planners across the country with some of the strictest guidelines possible for professional competency, comprehensive financial planning, and Fee-Only compensation. With more than 2,400 members across the country, NAPFA has become the leading professional association in the United States dedicated to the advancement of Fee-Only financial planning.  About The NAPFA Consumer Education FoundationThe NAPFA Consumer Education Foundation is built upon the expertise of the National Association of Personal Financial Advisor’s 2,500 members and its high standing within the industry. The Foundation makes grants to organizations that demonstrate the ability to educate consumers about basic personal financial issues. The Foundation will partner with recognized educational organizations to expand the breadth, depth, and distribution of consumer financial education programming, including materials developed by NAPFA.

3 Ocak 2013 Perşembe

Parenting Pointers: Six Steps to Cope With Your Spouse's Scary Driving

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Riding with a driver who exhibits road rage can be a helpless and frightening experience. More often than not we have a choice of who we ride in the car with, but when a spouse is the driver with road rage, escape can seem impossible. The good news is that driving habits can be changed, and a concerned spouse is one of the most effective ways to alleviate rage on the road. By using the following steps as a guide, you can show your spouse how road rage isn't the right way to handle upsetting or dangerous road conditions.

1. Lead by Example
If your spouse is exhibiting road rage, one of the most important things you can do is not show rage on the road yourself. React to situations the same way you would want your spouse to react. Make your spouse aware that you are purposefully reacting to conditions on the road with a calm and patient mind. This behavior will help normalize a more calm and considerate presence on the road when you are together.

2. Communicate Your Anxiety
Most issues in a marriage revolve around a lack of effective communication. Make sure that your spouse knows that you are not comfortable with the way he handles himself on the road. Try not to bottle up your emotions until they explode, which is exactly the behavior you want him to avoid. When your spouse shows signs of road rage, immediately let him know it's bothering you and ask him to stop, but do so in a calm and loving way.

3. Avoid Blame and Empathize
When you are talking to your spouse about road rage issues, it's a good idea not to assign blame or become accusatory. Many people exhibit rage as a defensive mechanism on the road, and therefore may respond the same way if her driving skills come under attack from you. Tell your spouse that you know why she gets angry on the road, but explain there are better ways to deal with other drivers.

4. Evaluate the Situation Together
When an incident is likely to induce road rage in your spouse, try to calmly explain why getting angry does nothing to solve the problem. For example, if another driver cuts off your vehicle, explain why yelling and making obscene hand gestures makes no difference. It won’t change the other driver’s behavior, but it will surely upset the children riding with you. The realization that road rage scares the children is one of the strongest deterrents for angry drivers. 

5. Emphasize Safety and Defense
Make sure your spouse knows that safety is the number one priority for your family on the highway. As a married couple, your goal together in life is to grow old and happy. Explain how road rage tendencies like tailgating and aggressive driving lead to more accidents than they prevent. It's easy enough to find stories in the news about accidents caused by road rage and aggressive driving.

6. Drive More Often
If none of these approaches help, it might be time to become the primary driver in the family. This probably won’t be necessary for most couples, but it remains an option if things get bad enough. Most spouses will be open to changing driving habits when they know the safety and comfort of the family is at stake.

Jessica Bosari writes about road rage and other driving dangers at Kanetics. 

Fun Freetime: Greg Banks' Pinocchio at CTC

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From the moment Geppetto creates him from a stick of wood, Pinocchio dreams of being a real boy. But will the all-too-tempting delights of puppet shows and Playland be too much for Pinocchio? When Geppetto is swallowed by a whale, it is up to this little puppet to show his courage and prove his love for his Papa is real. Greg Banks’ fast-pace reimagining will feature the four actors as painters that have shown up to paint the walls of the empty theatre, only to find an audience eagerly anticipating a production of Pinocchio.  The four playfully scramble with the tools of their trade (paint brushes, ladders, mops, scaffolding, etc.) to tell the story ofPinocchio, eagerly asking for help from the audience to propel the story forward.   Director Greg Banks is eager to look at the classic through a new lens. According to Banks, “Although this is a children’s story, it’s not a fairy tale.Pinocchio is a great story about growing up. It’s about discovering the world and being excited by what you find. It explores that fabulous time of innocence when everything is new from discovering your legs and finding out that they work, that they run and jump and do whatever you want, to figuring out that sometimes being alive is not just about you. It’s a fantastic reminder of what it’s like to see with fresh eyes, to be curious about your surroundings and at the same time it’s a lesson in what to look out for, what to be wary of.”   Ivey Award-winning actor Bradley Greenwald is involved in multiple projects throughout the Twin Cities year-round.  When asked what he is most anticipating with this production, Greenwald answered, “I'm looking forward to working with Greg Banks for the first time. I've enjoyed his previous projects at CTC.  His setting of PINOCCHIO lights a fire under me. It's what all theater began as - story-telling, and children understand without any question a storyteller and a story.”   Banks believes that the real story is about being true and avoiding deception and tricks. Banks concludes, “In the end it isn’t magic that saves Pinocchio and his papa. It is Pinocchio himself who saves the day.” Pinocchio runs January 15 – February 24, 2013 on the UnitedHealth Group Stage. As part of CTC’s commitment to programming for ages two through eighteen,Pinocchio is recommended for grades K+. Tickets are on sale now starting at $10.  Affordable ticket packages are also still available. For more information visit childrenstheatre.org or call the Ticket Office at 612.874.0400.
Children’s Theatre Company (CTC) is the first theatre for young people to win the coveted Tony® Award for Outstanding Regional Theater (2003). Founded in 1965, CTC serves more than 300,000 people annually and is one of the 20 largest theater companies in the nation. The company is noted for defining worldwide standards for youth theatre with an innovative mix of classic tales, celebrated international productions and challenging new work. 

Contest: Buick Achievers Scholarship

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The 2013Buick Achievers Scholarship Program will begin accepting applications next Monday, Jan. 7 through Thursday, Feb. 28 (5 p.m. EST).
 Each year, 1,100 Buick Achiever Scholarships are awarded to students who excel both in the classroom and in the community, and are pursuing degrees in such areas as engineering, design, information technology and business-related majors in the auto industry. One hundred students will receive a scholarship up to $25,000 a year, renewable for up to five years.  Additionally, 1,000 students will receive a one-time $2,000 award.   Interested applicants can visit www.buickachievers.com for more information.

Healthy Habits: High BP and OTC Drugs

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According to the American Heart Association, 76.4 million Americans have high blood pressure.* If you are one of them, there are some important facts to consider before reaching for an over-the-counter remedy this cold and flu season.  Best practice is to always check with a physician before using a new medication, even if it’s available over the counter, as some treatments may contain ingredients that could interact with other medications. Nasal decongestants may fall into this category.
A non-medicated nasal spray alternative such as Ocean Saline Nasal Spray ($4.99 MSRP. Available at drugstores nationwide) might help. This #1 pharmacist-recommended nasal spray helps to loosen nasal mucus and flush out nasal passages without interacting with other medications.
* American Heart Association (2012); on behalf of the American Heart Association Statistics Committee and Stroke Statistics Subcommittee. Heart disease and stroke statistics—2012 update.

Sweepstakes: The Lodge at Vail

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The Lodge at Vail, a RockResort, has launched a sweepstakes in honor of its 50th Anniversary! Each week one contestant will have the chance to win a prize a week until the week of February 13th, with the final drawing for a grand prize winter vacation for four on February 21st. The grand prize (valued at approx. $20,000) includes:  ·        Four night stay for up to four people in the luxury suites at The Lodge at Vail·        Air travel for up to four people via American Airlines (for travel within the continental United States)·        Round-trip shuttle service transportation for up to six people to/from the Denver International Airport or Eagle-Vail Airport to Vail  via the Colorado Mountain Express (CME)·        Three full-day adult ski lift passes at Vail Mountain for each person in the party of  four (total of 12 tickets)·        One full day with a private ski/snowboard instructor for the group·        Epic racing·        $500 gift card to Vail Sports·        Dinner for four to Elway’sTo enter the sweepstakes, visit Vail’s Facebook page, click “Like” and fill out the entry form for your chance to win. The sweepstakes runs through February 21st.

2 Ocak 2013 Çarşamba

Parenting Pointers: Six Steps to Cope With Your Spouse's Scary Driving

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Riding with a driver who exhibits road rage can be a helpless and frightening experience. More often than not we have a choice of who we ride in the car with, but when a spouse is the driver with road rage, escape can seem impossible. The good news is that driving habits can be changed, and a concerned spouse is one of the most effective ways to alleviate rage on the road. By using the following steps as a guide, you can show your spouse how road rage isn't the right way to handle upsetting or dangerous road conditions.

1. Lead by Example
If your spouse is exhibiting road rage, one of the most important things you can do is not show rage on the road yourself. React to situations the same way you would want your spouse to react. Make your spouse aware that you are purposefully reacting to conditions on the road with a calm and patient mind. This behavior will help normalize a more calm and considerate presence on the road when you are together.

2. Communicate Your Anxiety
Most issues in a marriage revolve around a lack of effective communication. Make sure that your spouse knows that you are not comfortable with the way he handles himself on the road. Try not to bottle up your emotions until they explode, which is exactly the behavior you want him to avoid. When your spouse shows signs of road rage, immediately let him know it's bothering you and ask him to stop, but do so in a calm and loving way.

3. Avoid Blame and Empathize
When you are talking to your spouse about road rage issues, it's a good idea not to assign blame or become accusatory. Many people exhibit rage as a defensive mechanism on the road, and therefore may respond the same way if her driving skills come under attack from you. Tell your spouse that you know why she gets angry on the road, but explain there are better ways to deal with other drivers.

4. Evaluate the Situation Together
When an incident is likely to induce road rage in your spouse, try to calmly explain why getting angry does nothing to solve the problem. For example, if another driver cuts off your vehicle, explain why yelling and making obscene hand gestures makes no difference. It won’t change the other driver’s behavior, but it will surely upset the children riding with you. The realization that road rage scares the children is one of the strongest deterrents for angry drivers. 

5. Emphasize Safety and Defense
Make sure your spouse knows that safety is the number one priority for your family on the highway. As a married couple, your goal together in life is to grow old and happy. Explain how road rage tendencies like tailgating and aggressive driving lead to more accidents than they prevent. It's easy enough to find stories in the news about accidents caused by road rage and aggressive driving.

6. Drive More Often
If none of these approaches help, it might be time to become the primary driver in the family. This probably won’t be necessary for most couples, but it remains an option if things get bad enough. Most spouses will be open to changing driving habits when they know the safety and comfort of the family is at stake.

Jessica Bosari writes about road rage and other driving dangers at Kanetics. 

Credit History and Divorce

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Do you have a history of bad credit or have a tendency to lie to your spouse or significant other about purchases you've made? Research now indicates that these tendencies can all provide important clues about how your relationship is working out. If you didn't think bad credit could hurt more than your ability to qualify for loans, think again. This infographic shows how experts believe credit usage can actually predict divorce.How Credit History Can Predict Divorce

Thrifty Thinking: What Every College Grad Needs to Know About Credit

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When it comes to credit score, there's no such thing as throwing out the lowest test grade or offering a chance for extra credit. That's why college students need do their homework early on so they can pass the credit test during those vital first few years in the "real world."
The first rule of credit: Use it or lose it.In other words, in order to create a strong credit profile (and qualify for future auto or home loans), you have to demonstrate that you're able to use credit responsibly. You'll likely have to start out slow, like opening your first credit card account, making small but manageable purchases with it, and paying your bill on time every month. From there, whether you have an auto loan or a cell phone bill, the key is to make on-time payments.
You'll have to pay your dues.As is the case with breaking into a new field right out of college, sometimes your youth goes against you and you have to prove yourself. In other words, you won't get the best credit card rates in the early years of your credit history because you haven't earned them. But you can and should still shop around for a card that has terms you can live with for a while (for starters, look for cards with no annual fee). The reason being you want to keep your first major accounts active for a few years to establish a strong history. Opening and closing new accounts all the time will negatively affect your credit score.
Don't screw up your parents' credit.If your parents put you on as an authorized user on any of their accounts or co-sign to help you open a credit account or car loan, that's an additional reason to be responsible with payments. If you don't, it will ding their credit scores as well as yours.
Late payments arenot “no big deal.”As soon as you are late -- even one day -- on a credit card payment, your lateness is reported to one or all of the credit bureaus (Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian). The longer it takes you to pay, the worse it is (being 90 days overdue is worse than 30 days, for instance). To avoid being late, be sure you don't spend beyond your means, and set an email, text, or calendar alert so you have a reminder to make your payments on time.
Minimum payments will keep you in debt for decades.Paying your bills on time is the easy part; paying your balance in full is the challenge. If you run up your accounts and begin carrying large balances, paying just the minimum won't do much to bring down your debt thanks to interest that keeps accumulating. And when it comes to credit scores, how much debt you have as compared to how much credit you have available is a big part of the equation. So if you have a $1,000 credit limit and a $700 balance, you have a 70 percent debt utilization (not good!). Experts say to keep it under 30 percent, or even better, pay your balance in full each month.A healthy credit start takes discipline, especially for college grads who are just beginning to deal with financial independence. But it's a much easier road than trying to dig out from under a credit score that tanks.
Todd Hills is the CEO of Pawngo , the first full-service online pawn shop in the United States. After more than 25 years owning and operating brick and mortar pawn shops, Hills decided to bring this 3,000 year-old industry online. In 2009, he launched a successor to “Internet Pawn” called Pawngo based in Denver, Colorado. Hills got his first job at a pawn shop in 1985 before opening his own shop in 1990. Seven years later Pawn Onewas established. Pawn One was able to expand to 18 different locations by the year 2004 before he sold 15 of them to a public trading company. Hills goal was to take the pawn shop business to the next level, which was accomplished in 2009 when he launched Internet Pawn, the first online pawn shop in the US. Hills continued to grow the business and re-launched the company in 2011 as Pawngo withLighthouse Bank as its main investor.