Big Bully...Review & Giveaway!

Today I want to tell you about a children's CD that I feel very passionately about.  Big Bully, A Best Foot Forward CD from Recess Music is a CD that I would like to place in the hands of every child on the planet.  I think it is that good and I think it is that important.  All you have to do is read the paper or turn on the news and see what an epidemic the problem of bullying is.  I actually get sick to my stomach when I think about it.  As a mother my heart breaks to think of a child being bullied and I hope my children are never the victims of bullies or bullies themselves.  When I heard about Big Bully I was anxious to play it for my children.  As the title suggests, Big Bully, is full of songs handling the topic of bullying head on.  Here is a bit of background...


Recess Music, a company dedicated to helping kids value a world that is wise, fair, and generous hearted, has launched its “Best Foot Forward” series of CDs with Big Bully, an album featuring songs by such kids music luminaries as Milkshake, The Hipwaders and Renee & Jeremy.

The folks at Recess Music hope that Big Bully will help to encourage discussion among parents, children, and educators about harmony, understanding, social justice, and global peace, as well as the particular challenges caused by the unfortunate presence of intimidation and bullying behavior on our social landscape.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Big Bully opens with The Uncle Brothers’ wonderfully alliterative, two-beat country tune, ”Bully Bubba,” explaining why bullies do the things they do and providing solid, practical advice:  When you ignore them, they will go away!   In up-to-date folk style, Nancy Tucker’s “Most Valuable Player” pays tribute to doing the right thing, declaring, “No matter what the scoreboard said, that kid came out a winner.”  The Hipwaders encourage kids to develop a positive attitude to behavioral consequences with their upbeat song “Time In Time Out,” while Mary Kaye’s “Mean Ogre” features a really mean ogre singing about refusing to change. The country/rock “Me Last Attitude” by The Happy Crowd helps foster a gracious attitude that includes thinking of others first. Milkshake’s colorful, rocking “Enemies” portrays best friends who, unfortunately, sometimes act like enemies. “One and Only Me” by Janet’s Planet and “I Can Make a Difference” by J. P. Taylor & The Academics emphasize self-understanding and self-validation. The Hill Brothers have fun with “Vicious Vinnie,” a droll minor key song in praise of “talking it out” with teachers.  Susan Salidor’s lovely ukulele waltz “I’m Sorry” offers a variety of ideas for how to apologize.  More good advice for kids is given on Lyle Cogen’s rap, “No Put Downs,” and Lou Del Bianco’s “Bad Day Today.” In Leslie Bixler’s lyrical “Can You Imagine?” the focus is on empathy, with children being taken through situations where they “take a walk in someone else’s shoes.”  Glenn Colton shares more insights about bullies on “Don’t Bully Me,” singing “Bullies are like babies in disguise.”  Renee & Jeremy bring the album to a peaceful close with their mellow “Wishing Well,” a song conveying wishes of peace, love and well-being to all.


This whole entire CD is a masterpiece.  My kids LOVE the CD from start to finish.  The songs give sound advice.  For instance in "Bully Bubba" the line "telling is not tattling.  telling will protect you and me" about speaking up for yourself or others.  In Vicious Vinnie a boy is portrayed as the victim of bully and will do anything he can to avoid going to school until he tells his teacher who is able to help.  When I heard the song "I'm Sorry" I actually wept.  The line of "I am sorry I did the thing that I did that made you sad" helps children to understand the power of saying "I'm sorry".  I am actually tearing up over the beauty of it now.




I could really go on and on about this CD.  I think it is well done and enjoyable for the kids to hear and the message is SO IMPORTANT.  This CD should be in every single classroom and if I could I would hand deliver it to every teacher on the planet.  I told you....I am passionate about this one.  Please, please get this CD for the children in your life.  It is empowering and insightful and it is a step toward stopping bulling.  Pick one (or 2, or 100!) up today on the RECESS MUSIC WEBSITE.

I am thrilled to tell you that one lucky RBM reader will win a copy of Big Bully.  Thank you so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...

Fresh Wave....Review & Giveaway!

Something I really love is a fresh smelling house.  Living in Maine, once the temperatures start getting chilly (almost the entire year!) the windows stay shut and the air just feels stale.  Blech.  I don't like the heavy sprays of most products out there...too "fake" smelling and overpowering and with three little ones I have to be VERY careful with candles.  When I was approached by Fresh Wave to review I was thrilled.  Fresh Wave has an entire line of products whose purpose is to keep your life smelling good.  Perfect!  Here is a bit of background from the Fresh Wave website...
 
Tired of heavily perfumed deodorizers that merely mask foul smells? Fresh Wave is the cure for the common, chemical air freshener. Unscented Fresh Wave® was created to eliminate odors…naturally. Fresh Wave Sprays, Crystal Gels, Candles, Vacuum Pearls, Carpet Shake and Pearl Packs all use the power of nature for safe, non-toxic odor elimination without the use of perfumes or fragrances. Simple, natural, ingredients like Lime, Pine Needles, Aniseed Clove, Cedarwood and Water.
They’re great for the home, car, office, cabin, boat, locker, gym bag and every place else. Wherever you have an odor, we have a Fresh Wave solution.



I really love that the Fresh Wave products are made from natural ingredients and not some icky chemicals like most other products out there.  I want my home to smell good but I also do not want my family breathing in a bunch of scary chemicals.  Fresh Wave sent me a variety of products to try and I was so impressed.  Here is what I tried and what I thought of each...

Fresh Wash
This is lovely!  I add a capful to each load of laundry and it makes it smell fresh and so clean.  This even helps combat the gross "oops I left the laundry in the wash overnight" smell.  You know the one!! 

Home Candle

This all natural soy based candle is great at neutralizing odors.  I keep it in the kitchen where it easily and naturally covers up the smell of my burnt dinners!   Instead of burnt pizza my home smells faintly of fresh, crisp pine.  Much better!

Pearl Packs

These little packets are my favorite.  You can use them anywhere.  Closets, the car, shoes...even in the bagless vacuum!  Anywhere you have a tough odor or need a burst of fresh these little packets of fresh can go.  I use mine in the car and in the coat/shoe closet. 

Stinky Dorm Kit

Ok...I am well out of my dorm days and still far away from thinking about them with the kids but the two  products included in the kit are gems!  The Crystal Gel is amazing.  It literally sucks the smells from the air and replaces it with freshness.  Fabulous!  I use it in the basement and it really helps with the mustiness.  The kid also includes a room spray which adds a quick burst of freshness wherever you need it.  Our spray resides in the powder room.

This is only the beginning of the extensive variety of products Fresh Wave has to offer.  If you ever use room spray or deodorizer, I would highly recommend Fresh Wave.  I would be willing to bet once you give Fresh Wave products a try you will be a fan for life.  I know I am!  Find more information about Fresh Wave and purchase products on their website HERE.

I am so happy to tell you that the people at Fresh Wave are giving one lucky Reviewed by Mom reader a prize pack including ALL four of the products I received for this review....a more than $60 value!!  Thanks so much to Fresh Wave and here is how to enter...

Nachomamatees....Review & Giveaway!

You all already know how much my family lives in t-shirts.  When we are hanging around the house or running errands we are generally wearing t's.  When the t-shirts are funny, quirky or fun all the better! Nachomamatees has a slew of fun t-shirts for those family casual days.  I love t-shirts that can make me laugh and, let me tell you, Nachomama has a whole bunch of them!  I am particularly fond of 80's t-shirts and there are no shortage of those on Nachomama either.  Check out some of my favorite 80's t-shirts from the Nachomamatees site...

How fun are these??  I am definitely getting my husband the Griswald Family Christmas one for the holidays! Nacomamatees sent this Rusty Bucket t-shirt over to me...

I got it for husband and it  I had to have it because we are from Portland, Maine!  I am not sure there was an actual bar by this name but I love its' cool, vintage look and feel.  The quality is great and the color has stayed vibrant after many washes.  I would suggest ordering up in size because I found the fit to be a bit small. Visit Nachomamatees to check out their huge selection of fun t-shirts!

Guess what?  Nachomamatees is giving one Reviewed By Mom reader a $15 Gift Certificate to their site! In order to win you must not have won (or received for promotional purposes) a t-shirt from Nachomamatees or Crazy Dog T-shirts in the last 90 days.  Here is how to enter...

Barney: Big World Adventure....Review & Giveaway!

This week a brand new Barney MOVIE was released!  Barney:  Big World Adventure is sure to be a hit with your pre-schooler.  Here is the scoop...

It’s a super-dee-duper journey of dinosaur-ous proportions when Barney™ and his playground friends take a balloon ride around the world in the all-new Barney: Big World Adventure - The Movie coming to DVD, Digital Download and On Demand September 13, 2011 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment. This colossal adventure features preschoolers’ favorite loveable, huggable T-rex, Barney, on a trip to Spain, Kenya and China where he meets new friends and learns about various cultures.

Trusted by moms and adored by children, Barney displays sharing, caring, imagining, dancing and learning on television, online and through live events, home entertainment, toys and publishing. The Emmy® award-winning series, Barney & Friends™ is one of the top-rated preschool shows today, airing on PBS KIDS® and Sprout®.

SYNOPSIS

Climb aboard a big balloon with Barney, Ben and Emma as they embark on a super-dee-duper world adventure! The friends visit everywhere they can imagine in this all-new movie! Together they encounter princesses and kings, musicians and magicians, puppeteers and artists across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. As the trio experiences new cultures and languages from around the world, Barney demonstrates the importance of the most universal language of all: friendship.



A&W are growing out of the typical Barney episodes but they loved this movie.  It was interesting for them to see other cultures and hear the different languages and music.  It was a big hit with them.  It was also a hit with Baby R who thinks Barney is just terrific.  Barney:  Big World Adventure is educational and fun for pre-schoolers.  I really like how Barney helps children celebrate differences.  Thumbs up, Barney!  Pick up your copy today on Amazon.


Great news readers! One lucky RBM reader will win a copy of Barney: Big World Adventure. Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...

The Gruffalo....Review & Giveaway!

The kids and I just recently watched the sweetest film...The Gruffalo.  You may be familiar with the book and this is one of those rare times when the movie IS as good as the book.  Here is the scoop...
 
2011 Academy Award Nominee for Best Short Film! An animated film based on the classic children's picture book, The Gruffalo tells the magical tale of a mouse who takes a walk though the woods in search of a nut. Encountering three animals who all wish to eat him - a fox, an owl and a snake - the plucky mouse has to use his wits to survive. He announces that he is meeting a monster with terrible features, a 'Gruffalo', and the three animals are each panicked into running away. Mouse is now increasingly confident; there is nothing that can touch him..... or so he thinks. That is, until he rounds a corner and comes face-to-face with the terrible creature of his imagination: the Gruffalo himself! Beautifully animated and appropriate for children of all ages. Features the voices of Helena Bonham Carter, James Corden, John Hurt, Tom Wilkinson, Robbie Coltrane, Rob Brydon.



The story behind the movie is wonderful.  It is exciting but not too scary for all ages and all three of my children enjoyed the entire  movie.  The music and narration is very calming and it fits the story to a "T".  What is absolutely stellar about the movie is the animation.  It is absolutely, positively stunning.  The characters and scenery are lovely and you get the feeling that you could easily jump into the screen and be transported to the woods.  There is a scene with dandelions (we call them "wish flowers") that is take your breath away beautiful because it is so vivid.  My son "W" remarked..."Mama, that is beautiful".


The Gruffalo is a must have for any movie collection and is sure to be a hit with all ages.  Pick up your copy today on Amazon....


I am so pleased to tell you that my friends at NCircle Entertainment are giving one lucky RBM reader a copy of The Gruffalo!  Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...

Chick-E Limited...Review & Giveaway!

 You all know how I am always on the hunt for ways to be comfortable AND fashionable.  I am a stay-at-home mom but when I venture out in public I still want to look nice.  I have been recently been seen out and about in a new shirt that I LOVE courtesy of a site called Chick-E Limited.  I love this company not only because they have created a fashionable piece of clothing that is cute and comfy but because of who they are.  Check this out...

Times are tough, but we want to help make it better.  Our goal, here at Chick-E, is to brighten your day.  Everywhere you look, everything is negative.  Enough is enough.  There is still a lot of good left in the world.  Good people.  Good intentions.  Good deeds.  We want our clothing to help spread the message that it’s important to be you and it’s important to be positive.  

How can you read that mission statement and NOT smile??  I love, love, love it!  I also love their slogan which is "Be Fun.  Be Fabulous.  Be You."  Yes, please!  Chick-E Limited is fun AND they make great tops for women, t-shirts for men and some great pendants.  The t-shirt they sent me is SO pretty...

This is a longer fitted t-shirt and it looks great with jeans and with yoga pants when I am faking being a sporty gal!  The color is so vibrant and even after several washings it has not faded or shown any wear.  The site also features some great tanks, relaxed t-shirts and this other one I have my eye on...

The t-shirts they have for men are patriotic and would make an excellent gift (Christmas is coming!)....

I also love the pendants featured in the Craft Klatch section.  I think this one would be great in my fall wardrobe and it is only $10!!

Chick-E Limited is a site I feel good about.  The shirt I am wearing is bright, fun and flattering and it makes me feel fabulous.  I also love the attitude of the company....they have successfully brightened my day!  Thanks Chick-e!

Deal Alert:  Receive 20% off your entire order at www.chick-e.com by entering 500fans at checkout (in celebration of Chick-E reaching 500 Facebook fans...hooray!).

Giveaway:  One lucky Reviewed By Mom reader will win their shirt of their choice from Chick-E Limited!  Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...

Name Your Tune...Review & Giveaway!

I was recently sent a product that has been keeping the me and the kids entertained each and every day.  Name Your Tune CD's are an absolute must for the children in your lives.  Here is the scoop...

Name Your Tune is an exciting, fun and fresh music compilation that is made-to-order and personalized for each child. The child's name becomes the feature part of every song making it an instant sing-along, feel-good hit. The songs are familiar and much-loved tunes for children, parents and grandparents making Name Your Tune a great way to learn, play and have fun together.

How fun is this??  When I first popped in the first CD (we received Volumes 1 & 2), I did not tell the kids they would be hearing their own names on the CD.  The first song we heard was "Hello and How are You" and it is a familiar one.  We were listening away when suddenly "A's" name was sung within the song.  The look of sheer surprise and joy on his face was priceless!  As the CD went on all three of the kids got to hear their names within the songs....Old MacDonald Had a Farm became "Little R Had A Farm" and so on.  The kids were thrilled and eagerly waited for new songs to begin so they could hear "their" songs.  I love that Name Your Tune (NYT) was able to incorporate all three of the kids names into one CD (by the way....there are over 4000 names to choose from!)!   I was very impressed by the quality of the names....they really fit into the songs and sounded like they belonged there and not like they were added as an after thought.  The singers on the CD were really great too and this would have been a great CD even without the cool personalization piece.  The songs on the CD are familiar favorites (ABC's, Wheels on the Bus, Head and Shoulders, If Your Happy And  You Know It etc..) and make for great sing-a-longs.  My kids LOVE the Name Your Tune CD's and so do I!  Children love to hear their own names and my kiddos were delighted to hear theirs within favorite songs.  Thumbs up from the entire Reviewed By Mom household!  Order your copy HERE today.

I also want to mention that the Name Your Tune CD's are PTPA Award winners!  NYT also carries an extensive line of personalized items including gear, wall decals and blankets.  I have my eye on the water bottle for the boys!

DISCOUNT ALERT:  Reviewed by Mom readers will receive $5 off all orders at www.nameyourtune.com by entering NYTMOM at checkout!

GIVEAWAY:  One lucky RBM reader will win Name Your Tune Volumes 1 & 2!  Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...

Spooky Buddies...Giveaway!

The dog days of summer may be over but the Buddies are back! I am very excited to let you know about the newest “Buddies” DVD release Walt Disney’s Spooky Buddies hitting shelves September 20, 2011!

Disney's irresistible talking Buddies are back in an all-new movie that takes them for a spooky new adventure. With the help of some unexpected new friends -- Pip, Zelda, Rodney, and Skip, the buddies must stop Warwick the Warlock and save the world from his dastardly deeds.

I am so pleased to tell you that one lucky reader will win a copy of Spooky Buddies!  Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...

Rally for Recess: Danimals Giveaway!

In the past twenty years, children have lost an average of 8 hours of recess a week, and some schools no longer provide play time for students. According to the American Academy of Pediatricians, the lack of play time is a national crisis leading to a growing epidemic: childhood obesity.

Rally for Recess is a national initiative designed to create healthy competition, pitting school against school. Five schools have the opportunity to win new playground equipment and an all-day recess celebration!


Danimals is committed to childhood health and wellness, which starts with good nutrition and an active lifestyle. Through February 8, 2012, purchasers can find codes on Danimals packaging to enter and register. The top school in each of five categories with the most codes registered wins!


For more information, visit: RallyforRecess.com



When I think about recess going it away it makes me feel sick to my stomach.  I simply can't fathom the ramifications of taking away physical activity from our children's day.   Children NEED PLAY!  Let's work hard to make sure recess is not something of the past!


To celebrate Rally for Recess, one lucky RBM reader will receive a 6 pack of Danimals Yogurt! Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...

Costume Squad...Review & Giveaway!

As you are all well aware, we love Halloween here at Reviewed By Mom. The costumes, the decor, the candy....we love it all!  I have a great site to tell you about today that has some fun Halloween apparel and costumes.  Costume Squad has some super fun costumes as well as some of those funny t-shirts I so love!  Check out some of these hysterical costumes...

 

If costumes are not really your thing how about a Halloween T-shirt?

I was lucky enough to be able to choose one of Costume Squad's funny t-shirts and I chose this one for my husband...

This t features Oceanic Airlines, the ill fated flight of the people on Lost and it retails for just $9.  Oh, how I miss that show! The t-shirt is of a nice, soft cotton and is of excellent quality..,.this one will last a good long time!  I do want to mention that the shirt runs a wee bit small so I would order up a size.

Visit Costume Squad and check out all of their creative costumes and fun t-shirts today!

Good News!  Costume Squad is giving one Reviewed By Mom reader a $15 gift certificate!  Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post and I was provided with a t-shirt from Costume Squad for purpose of review.  The opinions in this post are entirely my own. Your experience may differ from mine. This post has not been reviewed or edited by anyone. I was not compensated in any other way for this review. The sponsor of this giveaway is responsible for prize fulfillment and shipping the winner(s) their prize.

Kidtoons September Feature: Sid the Science Kid! Giveaway!!

Happy September All!  It is a new month which means it is time for a new feature film from my friends at Kidtoons.  This month the feature is two picks from that adorable and curious kiddo, Sid the Science Kid.  We love this show at our house and I think it is a great choice for Kidtoons!  Here is what you will find at the theaters this month...

 Sid The Science Kid Sid The Science Kid: Get Up And Move!   Sid is super excited, because teacher Susie announced that today is full of surprises-healthy surprises!  First the class walks to a local park where they get to run around and play outside in the fresh air! Susie teaches the kids how to do yoga, and when it's snack time, the kids get another special surprise-they get to pick fresh vegetables from a community garden!  Yum!  Next, Susie teaches the kids her favorite childhood game-Red Light, Green Light!  It's a great way to move your body, and it's fun!  Back home, Sid tells his Mom about his amazing day, and Mom is inspired to plant a garden in the backyard.  Sid then comes up with a new family tradition-taking a walk every day together!  It's easy to do and it's a fun, healthy way to move your body!  

 
 Sid The Science Kid: Sleep? Who Needs It?! :  
Sid is ready to stay up all night so he and his stuffed animals can pretend to fly into space on a rocket ship!  When his Mom insists that he can't stay up, Sid ventures to school to investigate more.  He and friends explore how the body needs sleep to properly function, and most important, we need sleep to grow and stay healthy!   Understanding that sometimes we feel too excited to sleep (like before an adventure into space), Susie presents a special Super Fab Lab where the kids practice calming down, and preparing their bodies for sleep.  Susie lowers the lights, turns off all the sounds in the room, and teaches the kids how to breathe slowly to relax...and sleep!     

I am such a huge fan of Kidtoons and all they do.  In case you need a refresher about this program, here is the scoop...

Kidtoons is dedicated to helping parents connect with their kids by bringing family friendly animated movies to the big screen every weekend at participating theatres across the country.

Participating Kidtoons theaters  showcase a fun, affordable family friendly matinee movie and provide a family experience filled with entertaining, kid-friendly characters, as well as cartoon shorts, music videos and sing-alongs before each movie. We even have fun giveaways for the kids, such as stickers, temporary tattoos, activity books or toys after every film.



Something else Kidtoons has, which is great , is the Kidtoons Birthday Club.  When you sign up here (with your children's or your own birthday) you will receive a free Kidtoons movie pass.  What a fabulous deal!! You can find a Kidtoons theater near you here.  I think taking your child to the movies is a big deal and a real treat.  How exciting for them and fun for you too.  So, go ahead, round up the kiddos you love and kick back and enjoy the show!

I am super excited to tell you that my friends at Kidtoons are offering one RBM reader an amazing prize pack comprised of the following...

• 1 Sid The Science Kid DVD
• 1 Pocoyo DVD
• 1 Theatrical Movie Poster
• Assorted Sid The Science Kid, Word World & Pocoyo Stickers  

Fun right??  Thanks so much to my friends at Kidtoons and here is how to enter...

Goose Bumps: Attack of the Mutant & Ghost Beach out September 13th! Giveaway!

On September 13the two new Goosbumps DVD's will hit the shelves!  Here is the scoop...

Get goose bumps and keep the light on to ward off the ghosts, goblins, mutants and madness as Goosebumps®: Attack of the Mutant and Goosebumps®: Ghost Beach scare their way onto DVD September 13, 2011 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. 

With over 300 million books sold, R.L. Stine’s wildly successful children’s stories (www.scholastic.com/goosebumps ) come to life with two all-new terrifying tales.  First, Attack of the Mutant includes “Attack of the Mutant Parts 1 & 2” and follows Skipper Matthews and his awesome comic book collection.  Skipper’s favorite is The Masked Mutant, the story of an evil, power-mad super villain who is out to gain control of the universe.  One day, while lost in a strange part of town, Skipper discovers a building that mysteriously resembles the Mutant’s secret headquarters... a building that magically disappears.  Has Skipper read one too many comic books?  Or does The Masked Mutant really exist?  The DVD also features “Phantom of the Auditorium™,” a frightening story about a young actress who is thrilled after winning the lead in the school play... until the nightmares begin as there is talk of a real phantom who has haunted the auditorium for years.

Next, Ghost Beach includes “The Barking Ghost” and follows Cooper Holmes, a young man who is scared of just about everything.  His father says he’s the only kid to scare himself on Halloween!  But as he moves into a new house, this time Cooper is not just scared of his own shadow.  In “Be Careful What You Wish For,” class klutz Samantha Byrd is the laughingstock of the girls’ basketball team.  But now, Samantha has found someone who will grant her three wishes.  Too bad she wasn’t more careful as now Sam’s wishes are turning her life into a living nightmare!  Lastly, “Ghost Beach” focuses on Jerry, who is thrilled by the prospect of exploring the dark, eerie old cave he discovered down by the beach.  When he hears the story of a 300-year-old ghost living inside, Jerry must decide if he will believe the legend or dismiss it as a silly made-up tale.   

Watch these latest spooky Goosebumps® stories on September 13… if you dare!

Two lucky RBM readers will each win a copy of Ghost Beach and Attack of the Mutant!   Thanks to the sponsor and here is how to enter...

Ben Rudnick & Friends: Live in Lexington: Under the Copper Beech...Review & Giveaway!

Last week a fabulous new children's album was released...Ben Rudnick & Friends:  Live in Lexington:  Under the Copper Beech!  I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to review this one for the kiddos and it has quickly become a "go-to" for our car rides.  Here is the scoop...

Affectionately nicknamed “the Grateful Dead for kids,” Ben Rudnick & Friends create a jam band dynamic that transforms their concerts into events. The band’s stratospheric level of adventurous musicianship brilliantly beams across a spectrum of bluegrass, light folk, calypso, country, second-line New Orleans jazz, and the many flavors of rock. The result: kids and grownups dance together, older folks happily recognize many songs, and a sense of community fun dominates the scene.

On July 11, 2008, Ben Rudnick & Friends set up at one of their favorite venues, the Town Green in Lexington, Massachusetts, site of their very first gig, where they’d played every summer since 2001. Flying high from a string of summertime shows, poignantly saying goodbye to Mark Yacovone, the band’s accordion player who moved to Mississippi the next day, and joined by Rob “It’s Saturday Night” Lee on saxophone, the band turned in an unforgettable performance.  Happily, for music loving families everywhere, this musical slice of family apple pie was recorded. The result is Live in Lexington: Under the Copper Beech.
 Notes Ben Rudnick, “The Lexington Friday Night Concert Series has been going on for quite awhile, and we are by far the biggest draw. When we play, there are upwards of 2,000 people on the historic Green with chairs and blankets and food and kids and balloons, and it's just a great atmosphere. We like to say it’s ‘America at its best on a Friday night.’ If you can picture a sort of hip Norman Rockwell image with a little tie-dye thrown in for good measure, that's Lexington when we play. With 2,000 people out there and everyone in a good mood, it transports the band to another zone, and we feel great ourselves, which comes through in the music.”




This CD is just so much fun.  Our family loves outdoor concerts but, with three little ones, we rarely actually GO to live concerts.  Live in Lexington has easily transported us to a fun and funky concert from the comfort of our own home (or car!).  The lyrics and style is family friendly while being 100% parent friendly too (meaning you won't groan in dismay when the kiddos ask to put it in!).  I happily croon along to the tracks (so sorry Ben and company!) and I have to watch that I don't toe tap too hard while I am driving. This CD is a keeper for sure!  Our favorite is "Mama Don't Low" but the whole CD is really great.  Ahh....an outdoor concert without the bugs and hassle of packing up the gang....love it!  Pick up your copy today by clicking HERE.


I am so pleased to tell you that one lucky RBM reader will win a copy of Ben Rudnick & Friends:  Live in Lexington:  Under the Copper Beech.  Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...

Loopers Laces...Review & Giveaway!

I love shoes that slip on or are Velcro.  As a mom to three little ones I scope out shoes that are easy for them to put on by themselves.  When I was recently shoe shopping with A&W I realized the error of my lazy ways...they were eying shoes with laces and they had NO idea how to manage those.  In fact, I had them purchase their second choice shoes because they did not know how to tie their laces and I was too overwhelmed thinking I would be tying a bunch of laces over and over (and over and over!) again in the coming months.  Lucky for A&W, Loopers Training Laces arrived in the mail shortly after my lazy mommy moment.  What are Loopers?  Here is the scoop from their website...






The Loopers Laces were created by Dena who is an occupational therapist.   While witnessing countless children struggle over the concept of tying their shoes she created Loopers Laces.  Loopers Laces are cute little shoes which have standard laces....except for one important bit.  There is a Velcro at the point where the loop is formed.  I found with A&W the Velcro made a HUGE difference in how the approached lace tying.  Creating the loops is a big hurdle and having the Velcro there to guide is a huge confidence booster and allows the child to master the other steps while practicing forming the loops.  What a clever idea!  A&W think of this as a game and enjoy practicing tying the laces.  Baby R is obsessed with trying to jam them onto her feet (she is a gal who loves shoes!).

I think Loopers Laces are a great idea to help kiddos master this tough skill.  These are great for home use, daycares, pre-schools and classrooms.  They also have the coveted PTPA seal of approval which lets you know that I am not alone in my praise!  Pick up Loopers Laces today by clicking HERE.


I am so pleased to tell you that Loopers Laces is giving one lucky RBM reader a set of Loopers Laces. Thanks to the sponsor and here is how to enter...

A Cinderella Story: Once Upon a Song....Giveaway!

On September 6th there is DVD coming out that will be a must for teens and tweens....A Cinderella Story:  Once Upon a Song.  Here is the scoop...

This new music filled take on the classic Cinderella story, A Cinderella Story: Once Upon a Song tells the story of Katie and her ups and downs of finding true love and embracing her musical talent.  Lucy Hale (Pretty Little Liars, Scream 4) stars as downtrodden teen Katie, Freddie Stroma (Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows) as Luke, the new transfer student from Europe, Megan Park (TV’s The Secret Life of the American Teenager) as Katie’s wicked stepsister, Titus Makin, Jr. (TV’s Glee) as Mickey, Luke’s entrepreneurial front man, and Missi Pyle (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory) as Katie’s cruel stepmother and school headmaster. A Cinderella Story: Once Upon a Song is directed by Damon Santostefano (Another Cinderella Story, Bring it on Again, Three to Tango) from a script by Erik Patterson & Jessica Scott (Another Cinderella Story) and is produced by Dylan Sellers (A Cinderella Story, Another Cinderella Story, Agent Cody Banks).  Clifford Werber, Ilyssa Goodman and Michelle Johnston serve as executive producers. 

On September 6^th WaterTower Music will release the companion soundtrack to A Cinderella Story: Once Upon a Song, which features the film singing debut of Lucy Hale.  The soundtrack features 4 original songs from the film by Hale (including “Run This Town” and “Bless Myself”) and 2 songs performed by Freddie Stroma, along with music from Big Pain Ticket, Oral Majority who appear in the film, and more.  Additionally Hale's first song from the soundtrack and movie, “Run this Town,” is available now for download on iTunes.

A Cinderella Story: Once Upon a Song will be available on DVD for $28.98.    

This is a familiar tale but the fresh stars make it new again.  The singing is great and the story is heartwarming and totally watchable (even if you aren't a teen or tween!!).  Pick up your copy today on Amazon today for just $12.98 for pre-order...

I am so pleased to tell you that one lucky RBM reader will win a copy of A Cinderella Story: Once Upon a Song! Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...

Organa Kids DVD's...Review & Giveaway!

Two uniquely adorable children's DVD's were released today, August 30th.  Castle Farm and Happy Valley from Organa kids will be available for purchase and you won't want to miss it!  Here is the scoop...

Children’s animated stories are brought to life in the launch of two new, delightful animated DVDs series – Castle Farm and Happy Valley, which  reach out to preschool children to engage their imaginations, amuse and entertain and at the same time teach lessons to last a lifetime by relating to them on their own level.  The first volumes of each title settle onto DVD August 30, 2011 from Organa Kids, a company dedicated to bringing the very best in children’s animation and television from around the world to U.S. audiences on DVD and digital download. 


Like a child’s drawing brought to life, Castle Farm is a gentle series from England full of color and colorful characters.  Join Farm Girl, Piggy, Leonard, Farmer and all the barnyard animals as they solve mysteries, fix things, get chores done, play games and learn lessons about friendship, responsibility and having fun.  Each vignette is filled with its own tiny adventure that will engage youngsters again and again.

Castle Farm Volume 1 includes the episodes “Snails,” “The Carrot Thief,” “Ball Games,” “A Windy Day,” “Amber,” “The Prickly Flower,” “Bubbles,” “Trophy” and “Waiting for Winnie.”  Volume 2 includes “Muddy Farm,” “Little Bo Lost,” “Stinging Nettles,” “The Twirly Spinner,” “Talking Trouble,” “Woodlice,” “Pumpkin on the Loose,” “Blackberries” and “Eight Legs.”

Happy Valley, a charming series also from England, is set in a beautiful countryside by the sea.  Using traditional and contemporary nursery rhymes and songs, each episode tells a story about the children who live in the valley as they learn about the world around them.  Whether taking a school trip, visiting grandparents, or a simple walk in nature, the tales are endearing and captivating and appeal to even the youngest of viewers. Happy Valley Volume 1 contains the episodes “Rain is Tumbling,” “There You Are, Blackbird,” “Tree on the Hill,” “Where Are You Hiding?,” “Autumn Leaves,” Gee Up Little Horsie,” Wakey, Wakey!,” “Far, Far Away” and Little Donkey.”  Volume 2 contains the episodes “Cosy Little House,” “Have You Ever Been Sailing?,” “Robin Redbreast,” “Going to See the Doctor,” “Scarecrow,” “Cars,” “Shopping,” “Valley Farm” and “Sun Cream.”

Organa Kids was established in 1995 with the mission of introducing American families to stories, characters and cultures from around the world through multicultural stories with universal themes.  Inspiring kids to have an awareness of the world as a whole (while being delightfully entertained), Organa Kids is creating products that balance technology and real-world experiences.  The company most recently released “Scavenger Traveler” app for the iPhone whereby kids of any age can explore their environment traveling or on vacation.  Other DVD releases include “Stories From East of the Moon,” based on witty stories by Monty Python's Terry Jones; “Move With Me” series of Yoga DVDs for kids;  and “The Adventures of Mouse & Mole.”  On CD-ROM is the fascinating “Croatian Tales” based upon the book “Croatian Tales of Long Ago” animated by an international team of animators, illustrators, musicians, programmers, and actors.

Castle Farm and Happy Valley are recommended for children ages 2-5 and are available for $14.95 each.  For more information about these and other titles, visit www.organakids.com.
 
I was really interested in how the kids would react to these shows.  They are different from anything we have ever watched so I was very curious.  They seemed to really enjoy it...especially Toddler R. The music was wonderful as were the graphics.  If you are looking for something new and charming pick up Castle Farm and Happy Valley today.  This is feel good viewing for sure!  Visit www.organakids.com to order.

One lucky RBM reader will win Castle Farm Volume 1 & Happy Valley Volume 1.  Thanks so much to the sponsor and here is how to enter...

Papeflavor....Review & Giveaway!

I love stationary.  When I send something of I want it to be fun and funky and guaranteed to make someone smile.  I want something out of the ordinary!  When I came across the company Paperflavor I knew I had hit the jackpot.  Paperflavor features absolutely adorable designs for every one of your stationary needs.  They have thank you cards, invitations for all of your events (even wedding!) and the most adorable baby announcement cards.  Here are a few of my favorites...

Something I also like is that you can buy individual cards for lots of occasions.  I have not seen this a lot and I like that feature.  I do not need a set of 20 Wedding or Get Well cards on hand but I do like to have a few.  How cute is this one for the bride and groom??

Lots of the designs feature the "Flavor Kids" who are these adorable, impish figures costumed as your favorite foods and drinks....sushi, coffee, cupcakes etc....These little tykes are seriously adorable.

Paperflavor sent me a sampling of their stationary and the quality is dynamite.  The paper is nice and heavy and the designs are colorful, clear and completely original.  I am love!  They also sent me some goodies from their site that is not stationary like this awesome tote...

How fun is this??  I have been carting it to the local Farmer's Market and the grocery store.  I want one of the zippered totes next!  The company has lots of cute apparel as well from onesies to t-shirts as well as fun and funky pins....

I am also a fan of their adorable paper dolls which will be making an appearance for the little gals on my list this Christmas....

Can you tell I am a fan?   I am in good company too.  If you check out Papeflavors press area of their site you will see articles galore with praise as well as celebs who are fans as well.  You are sure to be a fan too....I promise!  Check out www.paperflavor.com and see for yourself what I am gushing over!  You can also find Paperflavor on Twitter and Facebook.

Paperflavor is giving one lucky RBM reader a $25 gift certificate to their site!  Thanks so much to Paper Flavor and here is how to enter...