Mommy Blog Expert

Taking a Break for Quality Time With Family

2012-01-24T20:48:00.000-08:00

MBE is on Hiatus This Week

I'm taking time off to enjoy my family and kids after an extremely busy month that included a hectic but productive week away from home covering the Consumer Electronics Show CES.

Lots of new content is coming that you won't want to miss. So, wanted you to know that posts will resume on Monday after I'm able to return to my normal writing work schedule.

Thanks for continuing to read Mommy Blog Expert. This blog appreciates your readership!

Women & Moms Don't Miss All the FUN Twitter Parties Next Week w/ Prizes Jan 22 - 28

2012-01-20T13:05:00.000-08:00

Twitter Parties

January 22-28

To help you start planning for next week, here's a list of Twitter parties that are family friendly coming up. This list will be updated as more Tweet ups are identified so check back frequently as additional events with links to RSVP are added.
Year of the Dragon - Chinese New Year at The Venetian, Las Vegas
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Sunday, January 22, 3 pm EST
If you're a dog lover you won't want to miss the #SuperDogPics Twitter party hosted by Dog Tipper and sponsored by LifeandDog. Details on prizes soon.
RSVP

Monday, January 23, 9 pm EST
Electronics on Vacation #TMom #DreamVacay Twitter Party. Hosted by Traveling Mom, Prize info to come.
RSVP

Wednesday, January 25, 3 pm EST

You're invited to Share the Love at the #GodivaCoffee Twitter party, hosted by Clever Girls Collective and sponsored by Godiva Coffee - because Nothing Says Love Like Godiva. Lots of prizes. Bonus for everyone: Visit GodivaCoffee.com for a $2 coupon off any of the brand's coffees.

RSVP

Thursday, January 26, 9 pm EST
Come to the #Cravebox Twitter Party hosted by SheSpeaksUp and sponsored by Cravebox Prizes include Craveboxes and more.
RSVP

Upcoming...

Monday, January 30, 8-10 pm EST
Mamavation Boot Camp Twitter Party Launch #1, hosted by Mamavation and BookieBoo. Prizes include 2 #Mamavation 7-week Virtual Boot Camp sessions plus prizes organized by Resourceful Mom.
RSVP

If you have an online event to add to this list, please email janis at janiselspas dot com with "Twitter Party" in subject line.

FTC Disclosure: MommyBlogExpert did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

Justin Bieber, Other Mega Celebrities in Music, Film, TV & Sports Converge With Technology at CES

2012-01-19T23:51:00.000-08:00

Technology

Las Vegas experienced a huge influx of world-class pop culture and entertainment talent last week for the 2012 International Consumer Electronics Show. That's because dozens of recognizable celebrities were in town for appearances at various consumer tech company press conferences, show booths, parties and events held in conjunction with CES over the course of a handful of days.
Justin Bieber at 2012 CES Showing New mRobo Ultra Bass
Photo courtesy of MWW Group on Behalf of TOSY

Most well-known -- at least among tween and teen fans -- was 17 year-old sensation Justin Bieber, the Grammy-nominated platinum pop star singer who was invited to the TOSY Robotics booth at Las Vegas Convention Center to help the Vietnamese firm introduce the mRobo Ultra Bass, a pint-sized Bieber-inspired concept that transforms from an audio speaker into an 18" tall dancing robot capable of holding up to 500 songs. According to the company the futuristic product is expected to launch in Fall 2012 and retail for about $199.
Will Smith Joins Sony on Stage to View Clips from the Upcoming MIB3
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Another big name descending into Fabulous Las Vegas was actor Will Smith, who appeared during a press conference led by Phil Molyneoux, COO of Sony Electronics. Here, a mind-boggling number of news announcements were delivered in rapid fire fashion about a slew of new Sony connected consumer products across a wide range of categories. Among them were Bloggie Live, the world’s first MP4 full HD pocket camera capable of live video streaming with built-in Wi-Fi and the wedge-shaped Sony Tablet S. Watch for individual MBE reviews on these innovative products soon. Smith, for his part, was on hand for a sneak preview of Men in Black MIB 3 from Sony and Columbia Pictures to be released in theaters May 25, 2012.

Live streaming by Ustream
Not to be outdone by someone who has been in the public eye a few more years longer than she has was American Idol - Season 1 winner and multi-platinum singer and songwriter Kelly Clarkson who performed her hit song Mr. Know It All from the new album Stronger. It's amazing to think that this super talented vocalist has only been in the public eye for about 10 years, yet she has sold 20 million albums worldwide to date. Watch the press conference with Smith's CES appearance on stage and the performance of Clarkson by clicking on the Sony UStream Window above.

Nicole Polizzi on the Red Carpet, iHip Fete at Gallery at Planet Hollywood Las Vegas

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Also there was Nicole Nicole Polizzi best known as Snooki on the hit reality TV show Jersey Shore on hand at the iHip booth to launch her dazzling brand of headphones as well as headlining an exclusive party held by the brand at The Gallery Night Club at Planet Hollywood Las Vegas. Carl Banks of New York Giants fame; Jose "Hyde" Cotto, urban music pioneer; and DJ Luny Tunes all made appearances during CES to promote new personal branded iHip headphones, too.

Monster Announces Partnership With Earth, Wind & Fire at The Venetian

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Verdine White bassist of the iconic group Earth, Wind & Fire -- an inductee in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and an 8-time Grammy Award winning ensemble -- shared the podium at the Monster press conference with Head Monster Noel Lee at The Venetian Hotel. White was there to celebrate the group's partnership with Monster and to roll-out a new line of advanced consumer electronic products inspired by his classic band starting with the high performance and elegant Gratitude headphones. Monster, BTW, also announced at CES it has dropped the word Cable from its name.
Two Bond Girls Present James Bond on Blu-Ray at Panasonic Booth
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Meanwhile over at the Panasonic booth celebrating the 50th anniversary of the James Bond entity and announcing a commemorative boxed set of all 22 films on Blu-Ray from Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment were Bond Girls and actresses Olga Kurylenko (Quantum of Solace) and Caterina Murino (Casino Royale). This was followed by an all-star panel chat with three directors from the legendary series: John Glen (five Bond films), Martin Campbell (2 Bond films), and Michael Apted (The World is Not Enough).

Justin Bieber has a blast at mRobo Press Conference
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Other CES Star Sightings...

Tom Hanks at a private CES event launching Electric City on Yahoo! Larry Johnson, New York Knicks and Ron Duguay, New York Rangers in uniform at Duracell Powermat booth. Also rapper/actor LL Cool J who demo-ed the Boomdizzle Virtual Studio with live recording of his new song, No More at the CNET stage while his engineer was in New York. Additional notables: Jillian Michaels, TV personality and fitness guru; rapper 50 Cent; Dennis Rodman, NBA Hall of Fame; Teresa Scanlan, Miss America 2011; NBA legends Robert Horry and John Salley; and an eclectic collection of others.
Ice Sculpture at 2012 CES Unveiled Event
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Who are your favorite stars? If you could attend just one of these CES events which one would you choose and why? Please leave a comment and share.

FTC Disclosure: I was invited to attend these events as a member of the press covering the news for MBE. This blog did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this particular post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

Hard Working Mom Tech Bloggers Take a Brief Break from Covering the 2012 International CES

2012-01-17T21:30:00.000-08:00

Technology

What an awesome, exciting, and exhausting week CES was. Here's a photo of a lighter moment during a special tour for an elite group of tech bloggers, including me. It was great seeing so many of my old blogging friends as well as meeting a few new ones too as the show and conference -- I especially was thrilled to finally meet The Online Mom in person who I've known for years and who organized the Verizon event for us to meet with the brand's PR and management people.

This set of pictures was taken at the Verizon Photo Booth of the Future in one of those cavernous Consumer Electronics Show exhibit halls at Las Vegas Convention Center. That's me in the second row on right in black shirt with my reading glasses on top of my head. Feel free to tag yourself in this photo which I've also posted on MBE's Facebook page.

Learned about lots of really cool and practical cutting edge technologies last week, so watch for many more tech posts about the show as soon as I can unpack and write about them all!

FTC Disclosure: I was an invited guest of Verizon for a special tour of their CES booth as well as the event that followed; I also received a gift bag from the brand. However, the opinions expressed here are my own and MommyBlogExpert did not receive any payment associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

10 Twitter Parties This Week With Major Consumer Brand Giveaways Moms & Women Will Love

2012-01-16T18:19:00.000-08:00

Twitter Parties

Updated 1/17/12

Both moms who blog and moms and women in general that just want to win some great prizes and interact with like-minded others will want to check into participating in your choice of this week's upcoming Twitter parties. Be sure to revisit this post throughout the week as I'll be updating it and adding more fun online events for you to attend this week as they are discovered.
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Monday, January 16
9 pm EST
Share Your Packing Tips #TMom Twitter Party, hosted by @ TravelingMoms. Prize at end of party.
RSVP

Tuesday, January 17

7-8 pm EST
Fancy Food Show #MomsandBrands Twitter Party sponsored by Winter Fancy Food Show, San Francisco and hosted by @KemiIngram
Prizes from the upcoming #WFF12 Show such as GoGo Squeez and ACTIVATE Drinks
RSVP

8-9 pm EST
2nd Bloggy Conference 2012 Twitter Party #Bloggycon hosted by @BloggyMoms. Prize provided by Plum District.
RSVP

9-11 pm EST
Bushs Beans Twitter Party on Winter chili, soups, and stews, hosted by @MomItForward and sponsored by #BushsBeans #Gno. Prizes: $250 of Bushs Beans & cooking equipment. RSVP

Wednesday, January 18

8-9 pm EST
The #Handwriting Twitter Party hosted by @TheGraciousGirl and sponsored by @CraneandCo, @Sheaffer_Page and @StationeryTrend. Prizes from Crane & Co. and Sheaffer.
RSVP

8-9 pm EST
Movies on Demand #MODAwards Twitter Party hosted by @MomSpark. Prizes include $200 Visa Giftcard plus GCs from Sephora, American Express, Best Buy & more.
RSVP

Thursday, January 19

9-10 pm EST
Friends & Family Twitter Party hosted by @busymommymedia and sponsored by Hasbro. Follow them @familygamenight to join the fun and conversation about tips and game ideas for your next party with hash tag #GameNight. Prizes: Hasbro's favorite party games (1 Grand Prize Package and 15 individual game winners).
RSVP

9-10 pm EST

Tide Cold Water Twitter Party #Washcold, sponsored by Tide and P&G Future Friendly and hosted by SheSpeaks.com

Prizes include Grand Prize: Whirlpool High Efficiency Washing Machine plus $700 worth of prizes including a Honey-Can-Do Triple Laundry Sorter, a Suncast Recycle Bin and more.

RSVP

9-10 pm EST

Get Back in Shape Fitness Twitter Party #GetItGuide w/ @YahooShine and @Bookieboo. Prizes: Fitness DVDs & Amazon GC

RSVP

Sunday, January 22

During Downton Abbey Broadcast EST

The @MasterpiecePBS Downton Abbey Season 2 Twitter Party #DowntonPBS , event repeats weekly all season.

RSVP

FTC Disclosure: MommyBlogExpert did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

Toyota Unveils New Prius Family Member at Detroit Auto Show - Highest City MPG of Any Car in U.S.

2012-01-16T06:00:00.000-08:00

Automotive

America got its first look at the newest addition to the Prius family from Toyota last week. Known as the Prius c, this new hybrid car was unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 10. Having just finished a test drive and been impressed by the fuel efficiency and handling of another Toyota model -- the 2012 Prius v that will be reviewed separately on this blog shortly -- I'm looking forward to getting behind the wheel of the latest Prius vehicle soon to experience it first-hand.

The 2012 Toyota Prius v, big sister to the brand new Prius c
iPhone photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

The smaller and shorter Prius c -- the c stands for "city" -- will be available in March 2012. At 53 mpg in town and 46 mpg on the highway with a combined rating of 50 mpg, this urban-friendly model has the highest in-city fuel efficiency of any car without a plug in America according to Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc.

Designed as a five-door hatchback with a starting MSRP below $19,000, this all-new vehicle will usher in Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive to the subcompact market when it goes on sale. This car will be offered in three new uber cool colors: Habanero, Moonglow, and Summer Rain Metallic, in addition to existing hues such as Blue Streak Metallic, Absolutely Red, Black Sand Pearl, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Classic Silver Metallic, and Super White.

Debut of the Prius c at the Detroit Auto Show, January 10, 2012

The Prius c joins siblings that include the third generation Prius Liftback and the new Prius v, both already on the market, and the Prius Plug-in Hybrid which will debut early this year. Since the first generation of the Prius was introduced to consumers 14 years ago, more than two million of the brand's units have been sold around the world. With Prius c, Toyota's most proven hybrid technology will finally be available to subcompact car shoppers, in addition to having access to options such as the car manufacturer's sophisticated Entunes system which was first announced last summer.

Based on what I've learned so far about this car and my own current experience with the Toyota brand -- because of its hip styling and pricing -- I wouldn't be surprised if the Prius c sells particularly well to first-time and youthful drivers as well as to older consumers who are young at heart but also budget conscious.

Have you test driven any hybrid cars? If yes, what did you think of the experience?

FTC Disclosure: I was selected for participation in the Toyota Women Influencers Network TWIN community through a program with Clever Girls Collective. I did not receive any compensation for writing this post or payment in exchange for participating. The opinions expressed herein are mine, and do not reflect the views of Toyota or any of its brands. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

15 Free Educational Craft Ideas & Printable Kids Activities for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

2012-01-15T23:58:00.000-08:00

History

Monday, January 16 is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in the U.S. This day -- which always occurs on a Monday as a legal holiday -- marks the anniversary of this great civil rights leader's birth on January 15, 1929. Like many other Baby Boomers, I remember King's marches, learning about racial equality in elementary school, and his gravely unfortunate murder in 1968. To keep his memory alive for the generations born since his passing it is important to educate children about who King was and how he impacted the course of history in America. Here are a variety of educational and craft projects for kids so they can better understand what Martin Luther King, Jr. was all about.

Craft Ideas, Educational Projects & Printables

From Crayola

Freedom Hands Cut-Outs

I Have a Dream Craft

Famous Leader Pop-Ups

Diorama - Historic Speech at Lincoln Memorial

MLK Day Crossword Puzzle

From TLC.com

Colorful Peace Medal Dough Bake Craft

From Activity Village

I Have a Dream Bookmarks Printables

From DLTK

Handprint & Dove Unity Paper Wreath Craft

From KinderArt

A Box of Crayons Craft - A Lesson about Diversity

From Education.com

Design a Postage Stamp to Honor Dr. King

From The Holiday Zone

Black & White Collage

Milk Carton Buses

From Education World

Martin Luther King Kid's Quiz

From Teacher Vision

Martin Luther King Printable Coloring Page

From About.com/Homeschooling

Dr. King Printable Word Search

FTC Disclosure: This blog did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this particular post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

Navigating CES & Las Vegas - Google Comes to Rescue With Free Online Suite of Maps

2012-01-10T11:12:00.000-08:00

TECHNOLOGYGetting around CES is crazier than ever this year. Whether you've been here before or this is your first event it's forever a challenge to get to all the places you want to go. So before you send out the SOS crying to go home check the complimentary comprehensive maps hosted by Google.There's so much to see, demo and learn about so get out there and a have a fun, productive and stress free experience at the 2012 International Consumer Electronics Show.Access CES maps for all the places you want to go HEREhttp://google-latlong.blogspot.com/2012/01/get-indoor-maps-of-las-vegas-casinos.htmlFTC Disclosure: Mommy Blog Expert is in Las Vegas all week covering CES exhibitors and events. I did not receive any payments or other compensation associated with this post.

International CES Unveiled Pre Show Event for Press Full of Tech Delights for Family

2012-01-08T23:52:00.000-08:00

As a media member I had access tonight to an event called CES Unveiled. Watch for a story on my picks for families tomorrow as soon as I can get to the press room so I won't have to write this whole post on my iPhone and I can upload the pics I took.

Free Inflight Wi-Fi for Those Flying to & from Las Vegas for Consumer Electronic Show - CES Travel Tips

2012-01-07T20:12:00.000-08:00

2012 International CES

Though I'll be traveling myself by car from California for the biggest consumer tech conference of the year, I'd like to share some helpful travel information for savvy business travelers who have flights into McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas between now and the end of the show. Just received word about some very good news for companies, publicists, your boss and significant others affected by your CES trip.

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

If you are flying through the clouds and dreading the deluge of emails that will no doubt await you upon landing, there's a bonus for those attending CES that you ought to know about. To help minimize the stress upon arrival at the show, Ford and Gogo are teaming up to give convention attendees 30 minutes of free Wi-Fi access on all Gogo-equipped flights in and out of Las Vegas from January 7 to January 13, 2012.

How-to access free Gogo Wi-Fi

Wait till your flight crew has approved electronic device usage
Then, connect to Gogo on your flight using your Wi-Fi enabled device (laptop, tablet or smartphone in "Airplane Mode" with mobile network off)
Open your browser and enter your email address in the special Ford/CES promotion on the Gogo home page
On your flight home, you can write wrapup reports, file CES stories and post to Facebook or Twitter

This complimentary Gogo Wi-Fi is intended to help pave the way to a productive start for your CES adventure trip. Don't forget to 'like' Gogo on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.

Have a safe and productive trip and I hope to see you in Las Vegas!

Hate Doing Laundry? Here's a New Laundry Product to Make The Job a Little More Pleasant for Moms

2012-01-06T11:45:00.000-08:00

Homekeeping

When my 4 kids -- a singleton plus triplets all born within a year -- were in diapers at the same time, I remember how much laundry I had to do every day. I loved dressing my kids in cutesy matching outfits and they always got them dirty since they loved being outside making my job all the more difficult. In fact, newly laundered clothes were constantly piling up on the couch and spilling onto the floor in our living room where I used to fold and sort because I could never keep up with it all. How I hated doing laundry then, especially when I had to fold it and put it away when I was half asleep, LOL.
4 kids born w/in a year always got dirty so I had lots of laundry
Vintage Family Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Now those sweet little babies are teens and guess what? Those mere hills of laundry have turned into mountains of clothes, especially my two girls who always seem to have multiple costume changes daily creating a lot more washing and drying for me to do. Besides, how many teens do you know that either pick up their own clothes or help mom with the laundry?

Admittedly I still don't enjoy going around the house picking up their clothes or even loading the washer and dryer, then putting everything away. But I do have to say that I like the smell of my freshly washed laundry a whole lot more now after trying the new Snuggle Exhilarations White Lilac and Spring Flowers concentrated fabric softener.

Note the famous laundry pile spilling off our couch at left
The triplets w/ Daddy spin Hannukah dreidels on my laundry basket
Vintage Family Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Over the years I've used various brand name and bargain brand softeners. Like other products my laundry comes out soft with this, but it is also the first one I've washed clothes with that has the fresh smell of lilacs and other flowers that remind me of spring. Some other brands I've used are too strongly scented and some have no smell at all, but this new Snuggles formulation made by The Sun Products Corporation is a nice compromise between the two.

The label indicates that this new product is safe for all HE (high efficiency) washing machines like the one I own. A 32 ounce bottle goes a long way to scent and soften up to 32 loads of laundry since you use only about an ounce of the concentrate per wash. An added plus for me -- since I try to incorporate green living into our family life -- is that the bottle packaging contains 25% or more post-consumer recycled plastic.

Something important from the back of the bottle to note: Do not use this product on children's sleepwear or other garments labeled as flame resistant as it may reduce flame resistance.

Snuggle Exhilarations White Lilac & Spring Flowers
Reminiscent of the sweet smelling flowers in my garden
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

To learn more about Snuggle Exhilarations White Lilac and Spring Flowers visit the Snuggle site. You can also like them on Facebook so you'll be in the loop on future news, coupon availability and promotions about this brand.

Have you tried this new Snuggle fabric softener product yet? What do you think about it? If not, tell about the experience you have had with the brand are you using now? You are encouraged to leave a comment and share.

FTC Disclosure: I received the product from the brand Snuggle to facilitate this test and review as a blogger and member of the Smiley360 network. Opinions are my own and MommyBlogExpert did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

2012-01-05T23:33:00.000-08:00

Review Coming Tomorrow...

New Snuggle Exhilarations

White Lilac & Spring Flowers

The Coffee Bean $1 Deal - Full Size Select Hot & Cold Specialty Drinks - Jan 4th Only

2012-01-04T13:34:00.000-08:00

Frugal Events

It seems like The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is having deals just about every time my kids or I have a craving for one of their delicious hot or cold coffee or decaf ice blended drinks. And regular readers know what a huge coffee fan I am, especially at my neighborhood Coffee Bean where I often take the whole family. Last time I shared this brand's special with you was in this Winter Holiday November post when it was your choice of full-size Red Velvet Hot Chocolate, English Toffee Latte, or Winter Dream Tea Latte for only $1. That's not even to mention all the other specialty drink event stories about this favorite coffee shop that have appeared on this blog over the years. Today they're introducing some new drink flavor combinations with another $1 sale that's running for just one day. See details below.
My girls enjoying Coffee Bean about a year ago
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

That's right. The Coffee Bean is inviting you to take advantage of their latest special offer. As announced on CBTL's Facebook page they'd love for you to drop by any of their participating The Coffee Bean Tea Leaf locations on January 4th between 4-7 pm for your choice of one of their new seasonal drinks which include 12 ounce sizes of Caramel Cream Tea Latte, Caramel Latte or Iced Caramel Latte only.

Offer valid only at participatingThe Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf retail locations. Not valid in Ralphs, airport andHawaii locations. Offer good only on January 4, 2012 from 4 pm to 7 pm. Cannot be combined with other offers; available whilesupplies last. Also note there are no substitutions or rainchecks for this one-day special store event.
The Coffee Bean Invitation as it appears on the company's Facebook page

I know I'll be grabbing six of their certified kosher dairy drinks at my local CBTL late this afternoon for hubbie and our four teens on my way home from picking the kids up at school. How about you will you be taking advantage of this great deal today? If so please feel free to leave a comment and share what you think after you've tasted this coffee house's newest products.

FTC Disclosure: I disclose that I'm a lover of great coffee and a Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf fan and long-time customer of the brand. This blog did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

Must-Know Tips for Bloggers & Media Covering International CES 2012 - Jan 10-13 in Las Vegas

2012-01-03T13:15:00.000-08:00

Technology

When I started writing this piece I'd assumed my audience would just be my fellow mom bloggers both those I already know personally as well as the new ones I'll meet for the first time at CES next week. However, shortly after beginning to draft this post, I realized that all the tips and advice shared here will no doubt be helpful to moms who blog, but also to all the men and women bloggers and general media who will be descending into Las Vegas for the world's premiere technology event.

Sand Sculpture in progress at Intel's BlogHer '11 Booth last August

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

The Intel Booth at BlogHer '11 featured these fanciful sand sculptures that were crafted by a single artisan over the course of the multi-day expo and conference in San Diego in August. So you can imagine how excited I am to see what the Intel CES 2012 exhibit will be like as well as to check out the multitude of other vendors who will be pulling out all the creative and person-to-person engagement stops to generate booth traffic.

Close-up detail of Intel sand carving when nearly completed after 2 days

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Personally, I can't even count how many CES shows I've attended as a hi tech corporate or agency PR professional since I worked on that side of the fence for several decades. For sure there's always been lots of new and really cool things to see. This is my first CES covering as a mommy blogger, though, where I'll be on a mission to find fresh inspiration for MommyBlogExpert.com as well as for the weekly tech column I write for SocialMoms. After stumbling upon a variety of resources I've uncovered to date as I prepare for my trip, I've realized the details here are just too good to keep to myself.

Whether you've attended before or are a newbie blogger or media person covering this event for the first time, I hope you'll find some pearls here that will make your trip more productive.

Just in case you didn't already know, you must be registered to get a Press Pass to access press conferences, the International CES 2012 designated expo halls, key notes and other show events. Also, remember that there are several major press events happening before the official show actually opens on Tuesday including CES Unveiled: The Official Press Event on Sunday, January 8 from 4-7 p.m. and CES Press Day all day on January 9. Both of these not to miss pre-show press events take place at The Venetian.

It's less than a week till the show but if you are not registered yet but want to go the good news is you can still apply for media credentials on-site in Las Vegas. However, definitely reserve your flights and hotels first, because this city is going to be jam packed. BTW, you might want to know that you won't get a CES Press Bag or any press luncheon tickets at the in-person registration which pre-registered media will get. Check the main CES site for details on where to register and what is required as well as schedules of events, show hours, and all kinds of helpful advice on parking, getting around the city, etc.

Once you're registered as press, make sure you update your account that will automatically be set up after you are granted Press Credentials at Virtual Press Office. Here, you'll want to add up to 10 keywords to your profile so you will receive relevant press releases from this year's exhibitors.

Also, after registering you can look at the maps of the CES show floor and where all the official events are at the Las Vegas Convention Center and next door at the Las Vegas Hotel & Casino (formerly known as the Las Vegas Hilton) and at The Venetian. Additionally parking is limited so you might want to commute between the two venues using the complimentary CES shuttle services that will be running in town which can take you to and from the airport too. Download the shuttle schedule here. Fee for service public transportation options to get around the city also include the Las Vegas Monorail and taxis.

You'll also want consider uploading Follow Me the official CES mobile app free from the Apple iTunes Store. I've been using this great ap to organize my own schedule and must say this is easy enough even for the technologically-challenged to navigate and has proven to be a life and time saver for me. I've found it to be very helpful in planning out how to make the best use of my time at the show, to make appointments with vendors and also to input all the invitation only events I'll be attending.

There's so much going on at the official CES you may be too tired to take advantage of everything else that will be happening in town. But if you've got the energy you can find out about additional events and parties checking out the free Karennet List of CES 2012 Parties published by Karen Thomas of Thomas PR, Melville, NY.

In addition to following specific tech companies you'll be focusing on and relevant pundits, analysts, media, and fellow bloggers, don't forget to follow CES on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Flickr, and LinkedIn too.

Lastly, because I'll be sharing additional advice, great finds and tips live from Las Vegas next week, don't forget to subscribe to MommyBlogExpert's feed as well as follow my Tweets and Facebook posts. I look forward to making new connections as well as saying hello face to face to all my old online friends and business partners.

It's going to be a great conference so best wishes for traveling safety to Las Vegas!

Meanwhile, in addition to benefiting from this post, I hope readers will feel free to add to these CES blogger coverage suggestions and ideas by leaving a comment with links to other relevant resources I may have overlooked.

FTC Disclosure: I am a registered member of the media covering CES 2012 for this blog and SocialMoms. However, I did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this particular post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

Stunning Floral Floats Still Belles of New Year Celebration at California Rose Bowl Parade Today

2012-01-02T20:58:00.000-08:00

Entertainment

Photos Courtesy of Kit-Cat.com except where indicated otherwise

Blue skies prevailed over a beautiful day here in Southern California for the world famous Rose Parade today organized by the Pasadena Tournament of Roses. The parade -- so popular adults, parents, and kids routinely camp out on the sidewalks annually the night before -- is the precursor to another well-known New Year event: the Rose Bowl Game. As always, the parade pageantry was truly amazing including the giant Kit-Cat Clock float that I'll be telling you all about later in this post.

Kit-Cat Float at 2012 Rose Parade

The 2012 parade -- themed Just Imagine -- was led by Grand Marshall J.R. Martinez, an Iraq War Veteran who sustained war injuries but nevertheless went on to become the champion of Dancing With the Stars - Season 13 anyway. I can't imagine a better choice to represent this year's official sentiment. Imagining success just like Martinez has modeled for us truly helps inspire dreamers to reach for the stars. The retired soldier's representation not only inspired the crowd along the parade route, it also honored all injured U.S. military service personnel in a big way too.
Retro Kit-Cat Clock from the Kit-Cat.com

As readers I often write about old-fashioned and classic vintage things like LEGO and Curious George. So for this post here's a closeup look at one of my favorite entries in this year's parade: The Kit-Cat Clock float sponsored by California Clock Company marking the firm's 80th anniversary.

Who doesn't remember seeing one of those charming black and white Kit-Cat Clocks hanging in someone's kitchen with eyes rolling and tail swinging back and forth? I know I've seen plenty of these classic ticking cat clocks in my time and you likely have too.

Kit-Cat Float decorating in progress

This is the first time any of us, though, has had the chance to see that iconic wall time piece translated into a parade float 55 feet long and standing 24 feet high. It's fascinating to point out, BTW, that Kit-Cat’s float was decorated completely with fresh locally grown floralmaterials – something no other commercial entry had ever tried. In fact, the majority of the flowers used in theRose Parade were imported from South America.

A yellow rose blooming in my Los Angeles garden
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Some natural materials incorporated into the Kit-Cat Float project

Glossy Black Seaweed
Velvety Onion Seed
White Coconut Chips
Yellow Button Mums
White Sweet Rice
Orange Lentils
Green Split Peas
Yellow Roses

That's not even to mention the decidedly modern twist of this giant Kit-Kat version which incorporated skateboarderszipping on and off the float via specially-designed ramps, a tween couple dancing beside an over sized jukebox andeight riders from eight to 80 years old representing every generation. These faces, of course, represent all the children, parents,grandparents and great grandparents who have admired Kit-Cat Clocksduring the past eight decades since the company's founding in1932.

Dancers in action aboard the Kit-Cat float

Did you watch the Rose Parade? What did you think of the floats in general and the Kit-Cat entry in particular? Please leave a comment and share.

Year in Review - Most Popular 2011 High Technology Blog Posts on MommyBlogExpert

2012-01-01T16:15:00.000-08:00

Technology

Editor's Note: Stay tuned for more breaking tech news coverage as Mommy Blog Expert will be covering International CES 2012

In 2011 two very popular destinations for readers were the stand-alone pages Giveaways & Contests where you can link to and enter all MBE current giveaways and the 2011-12 Women & Mom Blog Conference Master Calendar, a Mommy Blog Expert exclusive. An analysis of blog traffic from last year also indicates readers were often drawn to the daily posts, too -- many covering the varied ways technology is impacting and enhancing family living. Following are links to just a handful of the year's most popular posts covering tech on this blog. To find additional technology stories on MBE, scroll down the side bar to the right and use the Google search window.
My Mac Desktop Upon Hearing the News of a Legend Lost
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Top Tech Story of the Year

Steve Jobs Goes to iHeaven Leaving Us All Behind

Trends
Technology Now Surpasses Flowers, Perfume on Mom and Women Gift Wish Lists

Product Innovations

A New Tech Gadget Category Keeps U Fit While Saving Rainforests

Nancy Drew Classic Books Now a Hit as Interactive Solve the Mystery DVDs

Old Fashioned DIY Gift Crafting Goes Hi Tech

Cool Apps

Do Good Facebook Games Trending for Kids & Adults
Spring Cleaning Goes Hi Tech – Apps for iPhone & Android to Help With Chores
A Free App to Help Parents Make Decisions When Kids Are Sick

Internet Safety, Saving Money & Productivity

Shopping Online Safety Never More Important

Bing First to Aggregate 200,000 Deals in One Place

Best, Least Expensive Sources for Buying Student Text Books via the Internet
Extreme Couponing – 6 Ways to Saving Big on Family Grocery Bill

Kids, Parenting & Education

Ideas for Plugging the Toddler Summer Brain Drain

Supreme Court Overturns Law Against Selling Violent Video Games to Kids
New Ways for Mommy & Daddy to Use Social Media to Find Employment
Strategies that Work for Parents to Fight Cyber Bullying of Kids
Mommy is Going Away on a Business Trip – Connecting With Kids Back Home
Dove at First Sight Cruise Party San Diego Harbor
The high point of BlogHer '11 for me and an intimate group of other women bloggers
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Just for Women & Moms Who Blog and the Brands Targeting Us
Social Moms Network Gets a Complete Makeover

How 2 Get into Invitation-Only Events & Parties @BlogHer & Other Conferences

Most Coveted Party & Event Tickets @BlogHer 11

An Accident Changes My Perspective: Attending BlogHer w/ Special Needs

Does Google Page Rank Matter to Mom Bloggers & Brands?

Motivating Procrastinating Women Bloggers to Publish Quality Content Often

Mom Blogger Conference Brand Sponsorship 101

5 Mom Blogger Secrets to Posting Quality Content Daily

Happy New Year Readers!
Fireworks and the Moon over San Diego Bay
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Looking forward to bringing you lots more informative family enhancing posts in 2012.

What do you think the biggest tech news stories of the year were? Feel free to comment as well as leave a link to your fave 2011 hi technology stories.

Dino Dan - Mighty Machines Children's DVD Movie Kidtoons Review & Giveaway - 5 Winners, Ends 2/2/12

2011-12-31T20:25:00.000-08:00

Movies

Giveaway details below

Weekends in January Kidtoons Family Matinees presents the children's movie Dino Dan featuring Mighty Machines at select local theaters nationwide. The kid-friendly feature from NCircle Entertainment -- which includes four exciting episodes -- is the story of boy paleontologist-in-training Dan Henderson. Using scientific method to study dinosaurs, this curious and adventurous young man gathers clues to solve mysteries. Also includes Mighty Machines: Ride the Mountain Rails! This is the tale of Work Trail who has the job of keeping the train tracks maintained for the powerful engines and rugged mountain rails.

All images in this post provided by Kidtoon Films

To celebrate the month's quality family entertainment theater program Kidtoon Films is providing Dino Dan Prize Packages for MommyBlogExpert to give away to FIVE lucky readers.

First, enter to win one of these fun gift packs for kids right here on MBE. For a chance to grab one, all you need to do is leave a comment and your contact info below this post; full contest details below. Then, after you've entered the contest, be sure to see the movie trailer plus download the free Dino Dan coloring page.

Dino Dan - Mighty Machines

DVD & Movie Poster

Giveaway

ENDS 2/2/12

Kidtoons Dino Dan Giveaway includes

One Dino Dan: Dino Trackers DVD
One Dino Dan theatrical poster

HOW TO ENTER

Just leave a comment(s) below this post, Contest ends January 2, 2012 at 12 midnite PST and is open to legal residents of the U.S. only. Winners will be selected at random from all entries and will be notified via email.

Required (Mandatory) Entry

Simply leave a comment below this blogpost saying why you want to win this prize. Don't forget to include your email address, Facebook and/or Twitter contact info in the comment section so the winner can be contacted.

Optional Extra Entries Earn extra entries to win for doing one or more of the easy options listed below. Just be sure to return to MommyBlogExpert (MBE) to leave an additional comment after each individual extra action you do to confirm so we can record all your additional chances to win.

1. Follow MBE on Twitter

2. Like MBE on Facebook

3. Subscribe to MommyBlogExpert

4. Follow Kidtoons on Twitter

5. Like Kidtoons on Facebook

***Bonus Entries***

You can earn even MORE chances to win each time you TWEET the message below, up to 3 times each day. Don't forget to return to leave a comment on this post with the direct link right after every Tweet you do so you'll receive an entry for each of your RTs.

Tweet:

Dino Dan Mighty Machines @KidtoonFilms Family Movie GIVEAWAY, Ends 2/2/12 http://tinyurl.com/6q3cc6n #kids #movies RT 2 #WIN

Mommy Blog Expert is excited to be one of the few blogs to hosting Kidtoons family friendly monthly movie giveaways in connection with screenings for children in theaters nationwide.

Past Kidtoons movie giveaways on MBE include: Spookley Square Pumpkin Care Bears: Share Bear Shines Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas Barbie A Fairy Secret Little Engine That Could Strawberry Shortcake: Sky's the Limit Olivia and the Great Outdoors Thomas & Friends: Hero of the Rails Babar and the Adventures of Badou: Swing Into Summer Candy Land The Great Lollipop Adventure, Sid the Science Kid Spookley Square Pumpkin 2011, Thomas & Friends Day of Diesels and Olivia Wintertime Cheer.

Each Kidtoons giveaway is unique, based on the monthly movie offering. But, they're always family friendly and wholesome for children, so don't miss out on entering the current giveaway as well as subscribing to MommyBlogExpert, so you'll be the first to know when next month's giveaway is announced.

LOTS More

Family-Friendly Giveaways!

Currently Being Hosted by Mommy Blog Expert

ENTER Them All HERE

Thanks to Online-Sweepstakes.com for including this contest in your directory of current giveaways.

FTC Disclosure: Kidtoon Films is providing the prizes and shipping for this giveaway. However, MommyBlogExpert did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

Dino Dan Kid Movie Opens in Select Theaters Nationwide Weekends in January

2011-12-30T16:38:00.000-08:00

Stay Tuned...

NEW Dino Dan Children's Movie

Kidtoons GIVEAWAY

Details To Be Posted Saturday

Ben 10 Ultimate Alien The Wild Truth Cartoon Networks DVD Review & Giveaway, Ends 1/31/12

2011-12-29T19:09:00.000-08:00

Movies
Giveaway details below review

Back in August this blog reviewed and gave away Ben 10 Ultimate Alien - The Return of Heatblast. Now MBE is pleased to be reviewing and giving away Ben 10 Ultimate Alien - The Wild Truth Volume 4 the latest Cartoon Network Ben 10 Ultimate Alien DVD release from Warner Home Video. Carrying a suggested retail price of $19.97, the new double disc set just released December 6 includes 12 episodes in color plus extra feature with a total run time of approximately 276 minutes.

In this installment, hero boy Ben is on another non-stop action animated mission and will be hanging out with some bad and good aliens -- both familiar characters and some new. Ben's foes now include another enemy: a roaring giant alien known as Ultimate Wildmutt that looks like a cross between a saber tooth tiger and some kind of fierce dinosaur. To counter the red beast's advances, Ben 10 pulls out all the stops to race to the rescue with Fasttrack, his newest alien comrade.

Ben 10 Ultimate Alien - The Wild Truth

Double DVD Set GIVEAWAY

Ends 1/31/12

HOW TO ENTER

Just leave a comment(s) below this post! Contest ends January 31, 2012 at 12 midnite PST and is open to legal residents of the U.S. only. Winner will be selected at random from all entries and will be notified via email.

Required (Mandatory) Entry

Optional Extra Entries

Earn extra entries to win for doing one or more of the easy options listed below. Just be sure to return to MommyBlogExpert (MBE) to leave an additional comment after each individual extra action you do to confirm so we can record all your additional chances to win.

1. Follow MBE on Twitter

2. Like MBE on Facebook

3. Subscribe to MommyBlogExpert

4. Follow Cartoon Network on Twitter

5. Like Cartoon Network on Facebook

Super ***Bonus Entries***
You can earn even MORE chances to win each time you TWEET the message below, up to 3 times each day. Don't forget to return to leave a comment on this post with the direct link right after every Tweet you do so you'll receive an entry for each of your RTs.

Tweet:
Ben 10 Ultimate Alien The Wild Truth Vol 4 @cartoonnetwork #DVD Review & GIVEAWAY http://tinyurl.com/6ozpvc4 #kids RT 2 #WIN

LOTS More Family-Friendly Giveaways!
Currently Being Hosted by Mommy Blog Expert

ENTER Them All HERE

Thanks to Online-Sweepstakes.com for including this contest in your directory of current giveaways.

FTC Disclosure: MommyBlogExpert received this DVD from Cartoon Networks (CN) to facilitate the review. Additionally CN is providing the prize and shipping to winner for this giveaway. I did not receive any other payment or compensation associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

What to Do With All Those Unused Gift Cards - How to Donate These Unwanted Holiday Gifts to Charity

2011-12-28T14:23:00.000-08:00

Community

Who didn't give and/or receive at least one gift card this holiday season in this day and age where giftcards have never been more popular, politically correct and widely used? Whether via the internet with online codes as well as those physical pieces of plastic that work like debit cards when you take them to a traditional store -- chances are that you are a member of that card-carrying club. And you are not alone because the National Federation of Retailers estimates that 8 in 10 consumers bought at least one gift card in 2011.
'C' stands for Consumer Cards to Charity
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Consumer and money-saving expert Andrea Woroch 's wisdom is no stranger to this blog. She points out the season of giving isn't over yet, especially here in the U.S. where Americans are still looking to make tax deductible contributions to legitimate non-profits before the federal fiscal year officially ends just before midnight on January 1, 2012. With unwanted gift cards being so prevalent right now and people still in generous frame of mind, it makes sense to introduce a concept many consumers may have not considered before. That is, the possibility of contributing those cards to a worthy charity rather than allowing them to waste away in a drawer for years.

Woroch suggests some questions to ask prior to donating gift cards

How Much Are You Actually Donating?

What percentage of the card will be directed towards the charity's mission and how much towards administrative and overhead? Carefully research the non-profit you are thinking of giving to and feel free to contact them directly if you have questions.

What is the Minimum Balance You Can Donate?

Some charities are grateful to accept any balance, while others won't accept a card that's worth less than $10 or $20 because of handling of the gift outweighs its benefits.

How Will the Charity Use Your Donation?

Gift cards sometimes end up being given directly to the charities clientele, while other non-profits resell the card for a percentage of the face value so they can take advantage of the cash.

Should You Simply Resell the Card Yourself?

Remember donating gift cards for charity is still relatively new, so there are still many non-profits that don't accept gift card contributions for a variety of reasons. If the group you want to give your gift card to doesn't take that type of contribution, you can always convert your gift card into cash yourself on websites like GiftCardGranny and then donate all or part of the money received directly to the organization of your choice.

Would the Charity Prefer You Donate Purchased Items?

Another good idea is to check with the non-profit to see if they would rather you purchase groceries, clothing, etc. and donate these items, instead of the cards or cash. If your gift card comes from a merchant selling products the charity doesn't need,some stores will let you exchange these for another store.

Can You Donate the Gift Card to a Silent Auction or Raffle?

One way to make sure cash goes directly to the intended non-profit is to contribute your card as a biddable item for a fundraising auction.

Please leave a comment. Have you contributed a gift card to charity before? Why or why not. If yes, I should you'll share your particular experience as well as additional thoughts on this topic.

Happy Holidays!

FTC Disclosure: This blog did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog,including this one.

Kwanzaa December 16 - January 1 - 7-Day African American Cultural Festival With Roots in History

2011-12-27T16:54:00.000-08:00

Celebrations

Yesterday, African Americans held events across the U.S. to officially kick off the beginning of the seven day celebration of Kwanzaa. I'm not of African American descent and don't celebrate this relatively modern holiday. Still, I have studied about African culture before and am particularly interested in their folk and fine arts. This background prompted me to look into how this special season is celebrated. Knowing my readers, I thought you might enjoy learning more about this too.

Hand-Embroidered 40,000 Stitch Traditional African Folk Art Tapestry

Purchased from North American Conference on Ethiopian Jewry's Embroidery Program

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Here in metro Los Angeles the holiday's customs and traditions -- which like the holiday, have little to do with any particular religion -- were celebrated by thousands. Both in private homes and also on Crenshaw Boulevard and in Leimert Park as well as elsewhere across Southern California, African Americans joined in marking this colorful festival by holding customary candle lighting ceremonies, getting together with friends and families and enjoying foods, music and cultural activities that connect them to history and origins of the motherland.

Festivities will be going on in virtually every community with an African American population in America over the course of the festival which began on December 26 and runs through January 1. Kwanzaa is Swahili, a language spoken in various parts of the African continent and literally means first. This originates from the phrase Matunda ya kwanza which translates to mean first fruits in English.

The holiday, first celebrated in 1966, was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga, formerly executive director of the Institute of Pan-African Studies in Los Angeles and now chairman Department of Africana Studies at California State University Long Beach. His premise was simple: To inspire his people to remain connected to the African way of life of their ancestors.

Each of the 7 days is associated with a different concept

December 26 - Umoja or Unity - Cooperation as family, community, nation and race
December 27 - Kujichagulia or Self-Determination - Knowing self, speaking out and preparing for one's personal journey in life
December 28 - Ujima or Collective Work/Responsibility - Building community, sharing with others and being part of the solution not the problem
December 29 - Ujamaa or Cooperative Economics - Creating and maintaining an infra structure of business and sharing profits
December 30 - Nia or Purpose - Building communities and reawakening traditional morality: respect for others, especially parents and elders; also responsibility for self and others
December 31 - Kuumba or Creativity - Using intellect, physical skills and natural gifts to preserve the culture's history
January 1 - Imani or Faith - Heart felt belief as a people in righteousness and ultimate victory in the struggle for equality

Kwanzaa yenu iwe heri!

Happy Kwanzaa!

Native Art Handmade by African Craftsmen

Grass basket, gourd shaker, clay frogs

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

I encourage everyone, whether you celebrate or not, to leave your thoughts about this annual commemoration. If you do celebrate Kwanzaa or know someone else who does, definitely feel free to tell about your/their favorite annual traditions associated with it.

8 Nights of Hanukkah Candle #7 - Lunch with Hubbie at Kosher So Cal Winery & Restaurant

2011-12-26T23:56:00.000-08:00

Celebrations

Seven candles are burning in our menorahs as I finish up this post. Just one more night till we reach the cusp of 8 lights tomorrow at sundown. But, before that last candle lighting ceremony of this holiday season, there's still so much more to celebrate.

Decorative wine cork menorah made by Chef Aarons' creative kids

Tierra Sur Restaurant at Herzog Wine Cellars, Oxnard California

iPhone photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Hanukkah day was extraordinary this year as my hubbie and I spent a good part of it in Oxnard, California sans the children, a world away from the hub bub of the city of Los Angeles. The sky was blue and the weather warm as we arrived at one of our favorite places: Herzog Wine Cellars.

As wine club members of this kosher winery, we started in the wine tasting cellar and tried some truly sensational wines. We progressed through the flights, trying some reds, whites, and sweeter varietals, finally selecting about $200 worth to enjoy at home together as well as to serve our frequent guests.

My top choice today: the Herzog Late Harvest White Riesling 2010, a rich and deep golden wine with hints of pineapple, dried apricot, and baked apple. Described in a word: scrumptious. There's also a self-tour of the winery that you can take upstairs that's interesting to see.

Barrels of Kosher Wine Aging at Herzog, Oxnard, California

iPhone photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

With our reserved table for two beckoning, we stepped into Herzog's highly rated Tierra Sur, the exclusive restaurant in Ventura County, California that's overseen by Chef Todd Aarons. We've eaten here before and have tried various elegant dishes all so good I only wish this restaurant wasn't over an hour's drive from where we live.

The winery grounds are set in small business park that is surrounded almost entirely by farms growing everything from strawberries to lettuce and other fruits and vegetables nearly year-round thanks to California's mild winters.

The main courses -- many incorporating the gorgeous local produce -- we've had before have been adventurous and superb. Even today, when both of us wanted to try something cooked over the outdoor open flame and we ordered succulent hamburgers with avocados and sweet potato fries, we weren't disappointed. At $15 for the burger on top of the extras ($2 for avocado and $3 for fries), these are pricey hamburgers, but definitely beautiful and delicious too.

Local Organic Farmstand Produce, Oxnard, California

iPhone photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

After a lovely meal together -- which BTW included seeing quite a few random people we knew -- friends, teachers, and their families, we stopped at a roadside farm stand where Tierra Sur gets some of its locally grown produce. Then, hubbie braved the freeway and we headed back to the City. Once home tonight we enjoyed an evening with our teens that was exponentially brighter than last.

All in all, it was the perfect blend of just us time and quality family togetherness, all rolled into another memorable day and night of Hanukkah.

Two menorahs, 7 lights each magnify the reflection on our marble tabletop

iPhone photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

New post each night of Hanukkah!

Meanwhile, check out these other 2011 Chanukah posts

Hanukkah Candle #1

Hanukkah Candle #2

Hanukkah Candle #3
Hanukkah Candle #4
Hanukkah Candle #5
Hanukkah Candle #6

Make your own Hanukkah Gingerbread House

Paper Hanukkah Menorah Centerpiece Decoration

Read additional MBE posts from past years for lots of ideas to enhance your holiday: crafts, cooking, baking, activities, and gift ideas. Just enter the word Hanukkah in the search window in right hand column of this blog for lots more content.

What is the most unusual thing you've done to celebrate Chanukah this year or in the past? Please comment and share.

8 Nights of Hanukkah December 20-27 - Candle #6

2011-12-25T23:46:00.000-08:00

Celebrations

Chanukah always goes so fast, I can't believe that the kids all lit the 6th candle already on their menorahs this evening. Since they're all teens they've done this each holiday for a number of years now and really look forward to it. However, this is the first Festival of Lights holiday for little Dexter, our miniature pinscher, so up until he moved in with us, he had never seen one menorah lit, never mind a whole bunch of them all at once. Understandably, he has been quite afraid of all the brightness that's intensified each night we light and usually goes in the other room while we kindle the candles.

Dexter decides NOT to Lick the Candles Tonight

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

A surprising thing happened tonight, though. The little guy thought he had finally overcome his fears and came right up out of the blue to one of the burning candlelabras on the table and got a little too close to the flames for comfort. Luckily, he wasn't near enough to be hurt in any way, burned, or catch fire, mind you. It's a good thing this pup was smart enough when he felt the heat to back safely away rather than to lick the flickering candles which is what he was getting ready to do when he quickly (and wisely) changed his mind.

After the excitement calmed down, I made some hot spiced apple cider for us and then we watched some videos together while the candles burned in our family room. When the last candle burned out and I was sure it was safe to leave the dog unattended, I went to the kitchen and made my mom's famous sugar cookie recipe. I made the dough as well as rolled and cut it in festive shapes, then one of my daughters and I decorated Hanukkah cookies together till we were both too tired to keep our eyes open.

In the end, it was another holiday night well spent with my family.

Hope Your Chanukah is Just as Sweet...

Decorated Hanukkah Sugar Cookies ready to eat

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

New post each night of Hanukkah!

Meanwhile, check out these other 2011 Chanukah posts

Hanukkah Candle #1

Hanukkah Candle #2

Hanukkah Candle #3
Hanukkah Candle #4
Hanukkah Candle #5

Make your own Hanukkah Gingerbread House

Paper Hanukkah Menorah Centerpiece Decoration

How are you and your kids celebrating Hanukkah as a family this year? What traditions do you have from your childhood that you've passed on to your children? Please share in a comment.

Merry Christmas Readers - The Classic Legend of Santa Claus - From the 3rd Century to Today

2011-12-25T15:25:00.000-08:00

Celebrations

As readers know, I enjoy researching other cultures as well as sharing interesting customs with you that both involve kids and adults from a family perspective. I don't celebrate Christmas myself; nevertheless, I've covered a huge range of topics on today's holiday observance before. Just a few weeks ago, an Arthur Christmas movie giveaway ran on MBE and then there was the post about how to easily create heirloom quality ornaments with personal photos. In past years I've also written about everything from the movie Curious George - A Very Monkey Christmas and the origins of the 12 Days of Christmas to a gift showcase of ideas for kids that enhance family living to Christmas iPhone and iPad apps for kids and moms to free and frugal DIY Christmas crafts the whole family will enjoy. This year, for something different, I decided to look into the legend of Santa Claus which is probably the number one thing that children the world over who celebrate this day associate with it.
Santa Sighting in the sky above Beverly Hills
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

The big fat jolly guy in the red and white flocked suit, it turns out, didn't start out looking the way he does today in the eyes of children who sit on his lap to tell him what they want for Christmas. As a matter of fact this holiday symbol wasn't even known as Santa originally.

The person that historians regard as the original source of this tradition is St. Nicholas who was born in the 3rd century in a town on the southern coast of Turkey and was known throughout his life for giving gifts to the poor, children, and mariners. He even was persecuted by the Roman Empire for his religious beliefs and did time in prison during his life.

Then in 1822, many centuries after the original St. Nick had died on the other half of the globe, Clement Clarke Moore, a New York native, wrote the poem An Account of a Visit from St. Nicholas for his three daughters. This came to be known as the popular classic story 'Twas the Night Before Christmas. With the continued rise of commercialism and advertising of the holiday in the mid 1800s, especially in the U.S., the popular image of Santa Claus as he is portrayed in modern times emerged. Today that old-fashioned depictions seems to have changed little over the past 75 years.
Santa, Sleigh & 8 Reindeer Seem Oblivious to L.A. Traffic
At the busiest intersection in Beverly Hills
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

If you celebrate Christmas what are some of the traditions you have that are rooted in your own childhood? What new customs have you created for your own children to enjoy?

Merry Christmas to those celebrating today

8 Nights of Hanukkah December 20-27 - Candle #5

2011-12-24T19:53:00.000-08:00

Celebrations

It's the fifth night of Chanukah. Just got back from taking the dog for a walk and enjoyed walking through a Jewish Winter Wonderland Southern California style. No we didn't get snow and I seriously doubt it has ever snowed where we live, not even flurries, since on a clear day you can practically smell the ocean air down at the beach not too far away. What I did revel in was on my block the windows were aglow this evening with menorahs each with 5 candles lit to, "Remind us of days long ago," as the Hanukkah song says.

Our menorah now has 5 lights & 1 helper candle
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

As I walked, I saw over a dozen individual menorah window displays including a few family homes with one menorah and some with many menorahs, one for each child in the household. There's even a neighbor having a child's Hanukkah party for about 15 tonight and each kid is lighting their own menorah. That means that after the little ones each have their 5 candles lighted, it's going to be burning brightly over the whole neighborhood.

Happy Chanukah wherever you are

New post each night of Hanukkah!

Meanwhile, check out these other 2011 Chanukah posts

Hanukkah Candle #1

Hanukkah Candle #2

Hanukkah Candle #3

Make your own Hanukkah Gingerbread House

Paper Hanukkah Menorah Centerpiece Decoration

Do you think Hanukkah is for kids or adults or both? Relate your answer and tell what you are doing tonight to celebrate?

Purina Dog Chow Vote on Facebook & They Donate to Service Dog Groups - Hanukkah Candle #4

2011-12-23T16:33:00.000-08:00

Community

During the holidays it's great to see so many companies leveraging Facebook to raise funds for worthy organizations. Recently I told you about Toyota Prius and their Toys for Tots Facebook campaign where the company will donate toys to that charity for the holidays filling up Toyota Prius cars one by one with toys selected by Facebook participants.

Dexter, our miniature pinscher, wishes you a Happy Hanukkah!
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Since I'm an animal lover, a pet dog owner, and also an advocate of non-profit Service Dog Organizations I could not pass up sharing another corporate charitable program where, at no cost to you, they'll donate $1 for each person who Likes Purina Dog Chow on Facebook.

FTC Disclosure: This blog did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog,including this one.

8 Nights of Hanukkah December 20-27 - Candle #2

2011-12-21T23:14:00.000-08:00

Celebrations

Attended our high school triplet's Hanukkah Choir Recital today. Tonight, I made more homemade traditional Potato Latkes by hand grating potatoes and chopping some onions and fresh garlic, then adding a small amount of flour and salt and pepper to taste. Fried in hot olive oil till golden brown and served with applesauce and sour cream, everyone loved these and they're already asking me to make more for the rest of the holiday. It's the second night of Chanukah now and the candles on the menorah are now 50 percent brighter. That's what I like about this celebration, daily for eight nights and days the beauty of the candles only intensifies.

Happy Chanukah!

New post each night of Hanukkah!

Meanwhile, check out these other 2011 Chanukah posts
Hanukkah Candle #1
Make your own Hanukkah Gingerbread House
Paper Hanukkah Menorah Centerpiece Decoration

Read additional MBE posts from past years for lots of ideas to enhance your holiday: crafts, cooking, baking, activities, and gift ideas. Just enter the word Hanukkah in the search window in right hand column of this blog for lots more content.

If Hanukkah is your holiday, what are you doing tonight to celebrate?

8 Nights of Hanukkah December 20-27 - Candle #1

2011-12-20T15:02:00.000-08:00

Celebrations

Chanukah, the 8 day and night Jewish Festival of Lights, begins tonight at sundown. After dark Jews living in Israel and in countries around the world will use a service candle called the shamesh to kindle the first candle furthest to the right on the branched candelabra known as a menorah. Blessings will be said in Hebrew before this special nightly candle lighting ceremony over the next eight evenings of the holiday.

Our oldest son on the first night of Hanukkah a few years back

Vintage family photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Then families and friends -- children and adults -- will gather to sing songs, play with the dreidel, a toy top that you spin, and eat customary foods fried in oil such as latkes potato pancakes and sufganiot jelly donuts. Kids especially enjoy receiving Hanukkah gelt money which depending on the age of the recipient means gold foil covered chocolate coins for little ones and cash, checks or gift cards for teens. Traditionally, to publicize this historical event, Hanukkah candles are lit in the front window of one's home or by a doorway.

Gold Hanukkah menorah & coins

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Watch for a new post on each of the subsequent nights of Hanukkah.

Meanwhile, check out these other 2011 Chanukah posts
Make your own Hanukkah Gingerbread House
Paper Hanukkah Menorah Centerpiece Decoration

To read additional MBE posts from past years use the search window and enter the word Hanukkah in the right hand column of this blog.

How will you be spending Hanukkah this year? Please leave a comment and share your thoughts.

Innovative Tech Gadget Promotes Family Fitness & Fun While Saving Rainforests - Striiv Product Review

2011-12-18T16:16:00.000-08:00

Technology

My family and I have tested lots of tech products for this blog. I have to admit, though, that a new product called Striiv has got to be one of the most cool and novel the kids and I have had the opportunity to try so far. At first glance it might appear to be just a glorified pedometer or a mere hand-held fitness device. What we found out -- and you will too when you take a closer look -- is that Striiv is those things and a whole lot more. Like a personal trainer this gadget will motivate you to move, walk or run more, but by inspiring you to be more active it is not only motivating you to improve fitness. This pedometer -- replete with innovative apps available in no other similar product -- expands its functionality, paving the way for you to positively impact causes around the world. For example, you can aid rain forests with every step you take, since Striiv and its corporate partners donate on your behalf.

Son with compact Striiv in palm of hand prior to uploading his latest exercise data
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

According to the company's site, "30 minutes of physical movement throughout the day is transformative to your health. In addition to benefits of weight loss, leading studies show that walking 30 minutes a day can dramatically reduce risks of heart attacks, stroke, and diabetes."

Just by exercising holding this in your hand, wearing it using the included belt clip or key chain or carrying it in your pocket or bag, Striiv detects each step when you walk, run or climb stairs. You can use this alone without a computer to motivate you to increase physical activity.

The product with the USB cable & adaptor it comes with

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

However, if you plug this into your PC or Mac with the USB cable that comes with it you can upload your progress data to the company's site and do a whole lot more than maximize your health prospects. That's because based on the number of steps recorded, Striiv ensures that funds are transferred to the cause you choose from one of their three charitable options: clean water for families in South America, polio vaccines, and rain forest protection. For example, after just 18,000 steps you'll earn the equivalent of a parking spot size rainforest for one year in Tanzania. Talk about making a difference both at home and in the world at large.

The device motivates fitness while tracking your fundraising progress

Image provided by Striiv

This is a product the whole family will likely benefit from: kids, moms, and dads. As a matter of fact you don't even have to be a parent or have children at home to have fun with this. Likely it would be an original gift to give a senior citizen you know that is in good health but needs some motivation to get out for a daily walk around the neighborhood.

At our house the kids got really competitive about racking up their steps using the single boxed device set we received from Striiv. So based on that experience let me warn: this gadget is addictive -- even though you could share one device for your entire household, you may want to buy several of these to keep everyone happy.

Striiv Package Box With Detachable Keychain
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

The product works right out of the box after you charge it using the included USB adaptor and cable, without the need of a computer. However, if you want to participate in fund raising walkathons and get Striiv to donate money for all the exercise you do, you'll need either to connect this with a Mac or PC. What a great idea for a holiday gift or to give yourself or someone you care about to start the new year by exercising more.

Striiv, which will be exhibiting at CES 2012 in January in Las Vegas, is the flagship product manufactured by Striiv, Inc. Priced at $99, this is affordable and available now. Not only is this really easy to learn and use, it is also very cool, sleek and compact, weighing just 1.5 ounces and measuring 2.75" high by 1.7" wide, a fraction of the size of an iPhone. See the Striiv website for exact technical requirements, more product details and to purchase this clever piece of technology.

What kind of new year resolutions are you making about getting more exercise? Do you think the Striiv can help you make a difference in your own health and the world? Please leave a comment with your thoughts.

FTC Disclosure: I received the Striiv to facilitate this review. MommyBlogExpert did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

Coming Sunday: A New Category of Tech Gadget

2011-12-17T21:22:00.000-08:00

Stay Tuned...

Tomorrow (Sunday) MommyBlogExpert's Striiv Product Review goes live.

You'll learn why this is different than any other technology device currently on the market.

Easy Personalized DIY Photo Craft Gift Perfect for Friends & Family for the Holidays & All Year Long

2011-12-16T12:17:00.000-08:00

Unique Gifts

All images in this post are iPhone photos by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

When I took on this Photo Christmas Ornament product review assignment working with the product I received in the mail from Photo Jewelry Making (PJM), the original plan was to use some family photos to make some ornaments for Christmas or Chanukah to decorate the tree or home for the holidays. As you can see from the photos I took of the DIY process and the end results, not only was this photo project quick and easy to make, it was also a lot of fun to dream up lots of other uses for these beautiful heirloom quality gifts for kids, adults, and parents to enjoy and treasure all year round.
PJM Ornaments are not just for trees, your pet will love this too

Creating these beautiful presents for my teen triplet girls, with the help of my teen son, turned out to be unbelievably fast, from start to finish in about an hour. Ironically, picking the photos out to use ended up taking a lot longer than actually making and assembling these.

Big brother easily designs a personal gift for his sisters with the included CD

To make them, the first step is to choose photos -- definitely the hardest part at our house. Next, my son loaded up the EZ Photo Resizer Software provided by PJM onto his PC computer, imported the JPG photos we chose into the program, cropped them and with the click of a button sized each of them to precisely 30mm x 20mm to fit the photo frame squares the brand sent us. After we saved the project as a PDF, I printed them out on a sheet of regular white paper on our Epson Artisan 800 All-in-One Printer.

After that, it was simply a matter of cutting out the images which are a tiny 3/4" wide so definitely use sharp scissors as I did to make as clean a cut around each photo as possible. The printout you get, BTW, includes very light gray grid dotted lines so if you take your time the guidelines should help you cut each perfectly straight.
The resulting images for this project are a petite 3/4" wide

At last, it's time to carefully slide out the plastic cover piece of each ornament and then insert the photos you cut out into the frames facing outwards, then just gently slide the plastic piece with photos back into the frame. Attach the decorative hooks to each photo frame and you're done.

Silverplated parts that came with the PJM Ornament Kit reviewied

As you can see from the photo at the top of this post and more images below, there are so many uses for these pretty home accents making it possible to enjoy these not only during the holiday season, but all year long. I can't wait to see my girls' reactions when my son gives these to them for Hanukkah which starts at sundown December 23rd as well as what other ways they might think of to enjoy these personalized gifts.

The next two pics show one of the original photos and what it looks like once it's resized and transformed into an ornament. Also shown are just a few other creative ideas to use these.

Make these into an ornament, necklace (add your own chain), decor for a kid room dresser, wine glass charm, or anything else you think of. You are limited only by your imagination.

The DIY Photo Jewelry Double-Sided Christmas Ornament Kit set makes personalized gifts for up to six of your family and friends. It comes with 6 silver plated rectangle photo frames, 6 swirled ornament hangers, and the EZ Resizer Software CD to resize your photos. Regularly retail priced at $24.99 for the set of six, these are on special as this post goes live for just $14.99 (a savings of $10) plus shipping. They sell wholesale, too. Check out the company's website as they have a wide variety of similar products also available.

You are encouraged to leave your thoughts about this personalized gift as a comment. Also, if you've already made these please tell us about your experience making them.

FTC Disclosure: This review was made possible by Mom Spark Media. I received the product mentioned to facilitate this test and product review and thoughts in this post are my own. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

The Cult of LEGO Coffee Table Book on Kids and Adults Holiday Wish List - Review & Giveaway, Ends 1/17

2011-12-15T19:56:00.000-08:00

Books

Giveaway entry details below

Chances are if you or one of your children isn't a lover of all things LEGO, then you at least know a youngster or adult that is passionate about building with these familiar plastic interlocking bricks now found in more than 75% of homes in the Western World. I know our household is included in those statistics because my kids played with LEGOs as toddlers and as teens now, they still love them. With such popularity among all age groups -- whether serious or just for fun -- I'm surprised that it took this look to introduce a book as good as The Cult of Lego a collaboration between authors John Baichtal (Make Magazine Contributor and Wired's GeekDad Blog) and Jose Meno (Founder of Brick Journal, a LEGO fan magazine). After my whole family -- mom, dad, and four kids -- took a look at the sensational illustrations, photos and the text inside that awaits you, we all agree that it certainly was worth the wait for this particular book.

The Cult of LEGO Book
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Equal parts coffee table art book, history lesson, and creative inspiration for builders of all ages, this is a comprehensive title that is the first to capture all the excitement about LEGO into a single book. It has as equal appeal to the serious adult LEGO professional or hobbyist as it does to kids in a variety of age groups with various abilities. In hard cover with over 304 interlocking pages readers will learn about the fascinating 50+ year history of LEGO and how the product was first brought to market and how it has evolved over time up until the company's present foray into technology.

This piece of non-fiction also delves into the intriguing world of men and women that fell back in love with the product as adults. Known as AFOLs (Adult Fans of LEGO) these are the enthusiastic bunch who build fantastical sculptures, attending conventions and competitions to congregate with like-minded souls.

My 4 kids at Legoland California w/ Old Man LEGO

Vintage family photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

In fact, this A to Z book covers just about everything related imaginable from the Minifig Mania craze, LEGO Art, and the use of LEGOs as autism therapy and bricks used in marketing, to what goes on at LEGO users groups and conventions, and even a Guinness Book of World Records-type section where you'll learn about cool stats such as the biggest LEGO statue ever created -- the Sitting Bull sculpture at LEGOLAND Billund, Denmark that was built with 1.5 million bricks.

The Cult of LEGO, Hardback $39.95 and eBook $31.95, is published by No Starch Press and is widely available in-store and online where books are sold. Note: As the dustcover indicates, this unofficial book is not endorsed or authorized by the LEGO Group.

To WIN a copy of The Cult of Lego for yourself or to give as a gift to someone you know, scroll down for details about MommyBlogExpert's giveaway of this title.

The Cult of LEGO

Hard Cover Book
Giveaway

ENDS 1/17/12

WIN IT!

HOW TO ENTER

Just leave a comment(s) below this post, Contest ends January 17, 2012 at 12 midnite PST and is open to legal residents of the U.S. only. Winner will be selected at random from all entries and will be notified via email.

Required (Mandatory) Entry

Optional Extra Entries

Earn extra entries to win for doing one or more of the easy options listed below. Just be sure to return to MommyBlogExpert (MBE) to leave an additional comment after each individual extra action you do to confirm so we can record all your additional chances to win.

1. Follow MBE on Twitter

2. Like MBE on Facebook

3. Subscribe to MommyBlogExpert

4. Follow WiredGeekDad on Twitter

5. Follow John Baichtal on Twitter

Super ***Bonus Entries***

Tweet:

The Cult of LEGO book that's on kids & adults Holiday Gift List - Review & Giveaway http://tinyurl.com/6mhn2td #LEGO RT 2 #WIN

Thanks to Online-Sweepstakes.com forincluding this contest in their directory of current giveaways.

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Family-Friendly Giveaways!

Currently Being Hosted by Mommy Blog Expert

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FTC Disclosure: The publisher provided the book to me to facilitate this review and also is providing the prize for this giveaway. MommyBlogExpert did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

The Cult of Lego Book Review & Giveaway

2011-12-14T21:28:00.000-08:00

Coming Up Next...

Stay tuned. Tomorrow, Thursday, December 15th I'll be posting Mommy Blog Expert's review of the hit book The Cult of Lego $39.95 by John Baichtal and Joe Meno. Published by No Starch Press, Inc.

Included will be giveaway details on how you can WIN a hard copy of this awesome coffee table quality title that's geared toward Lego enthusiasts at all levels -- beginning, intermediate and advanced.

The Smurfs Embed Handprints at Historic Hollywood Grauman's Chinese Theater Today

2011-12-13T23:56:00.000-08:00

Culture

Story & all images in this post by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Living in L.A. for more than three decades in the shadow of the land of show business, I never imagined I'd experience a Hollywood moment like this. Yet, against a natural California sky blue backdrop that nearly matched the color of the guests of honor, they were there in person: The Smurfs an animated creation beloved by kids (including me) for 50 years. Yes, Papa, Clumsy and Smurfette were all present today to participate in the legendary cement hand imprint ceremony at the historical Grauman's Chinese Theater on Hollywood Boulevard.

Papa, Clumsy & Smurfette dip their hands in the cement
iPhone Image, Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

What a perfect tribute to honor Sony Pictures Animation. To recognize all the talent that worked in front of and behind the cameras and microphones to bring us the hybrid live-action animated family friendly hit feature film The Smurfs first on the big screen and -- as of early December -- now on DVD as well as pushing new boundaries on Blu-Ray 3D with the Smurf-O-Vision second screen interactive experience.

The sky over landmark Grauman's Chinese Theater was blue as The Smurfs today
iPhone Image, Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Sitting in the Studio's roped off VIP section at the event this morning I had a front row seat to all that goes into this tradition that dates back to the year the magnificent Grauman's Chinese originally opened in 1927. More than 75 years after the first imprint was made reportedly by silent screen star Norma Talmadge who accidentally stepped into wet concrete at the then-new theater, it was an amazing experience to be there as history was made once again in real-time.

Media fill the press box at this event, opposite the VIP section
iPhone Image, Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

No doubt if you've read this far you are likely as curious as I was about what actually goes on at one of these Chinese Theater rituals. I mean this is really an unusual occurrence. To give you some idea: only 10 other imprint events like it took place here in 2011. So, without further adieu, here is the short story and some of my photos of the event today.

Blank cement canvas before The Smurfs grand entrance
iPhone Image, Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Upon arrival at this red carpet outdoor event in front of the theater, three wet concrete squares in wood frames on slightly elevated platforms had already been set out, each blank except for "The Smurfs" at the top. Like at movie premieres held here throughout the year, event attendance was by invitation only, so the sidewalk was closed and barricaded in front of the theater.

View across the red carpet from the VIP seats to the kids area
iPhone Image, Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

The brief ceremony was rather intimate with under 100 people attending altogether. The press box was filled with somewhere between 30-40 media covering the event, armed with all kinds of video and still cameras. Two other audience sections flanked the press, also with a birds-eye-view of all the action. On one side, there was a small group of very lucky and well-behaved 3rd and 5th grade students -- clasping brand new Smurf DVDs they received from Sony -- as they observed the historic moment. Then, there was a VIP area of invitees where about a dozen or so sat directly opposite the kids including some Sony people, friends of the Studio and another mommy blogger and I.

Following the usual ceremonial introductions, music from the movie's score accompanied the entrance of the Smurf trio, who were actually characters in costume. They brought along with them some special real people to assist them including Sony Pictures Animation President Bob Osher, Cast Member Anton Yelchin and Sony Pictures Animation Production President Michelle Raimo Kouyate.

Papa Smurf, Clumsy Smurf & Smurfette look on as

Bob Osher, Anton Yelchin, Michelle Raimo Kouyate sign for them

iPhone Image by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

At the designated moment, The Smurfs embedded their handprints in the wet concrete slabs in front of each of them and then -- as is the custom -- posed with their handiwork giving the audience the famous palms up salute. Then, Osher, Yelchin (the voice of Clumsy in the film), and Raimo Kouyate stepped in to create the signatures of Papa Smurf, Clumsy Smurf and Smurfette, respectively. After that The Smurfs and their honorary helpers posed for a variety of photos much like you or I would at a special family occasion.

That in a nutshell is my perspective on December 13, 2011 in Hollywood History. My hope, through telling this story, is to share the thrill of this experience with readers.

The Smurfs handiwork is finally complete, making history
iPhone Image by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

About Grauman's Chinese Theater

Today there are more than 200 sets of footprints, hand prints, other impressions (Groucho Marx's cigar and Harry Potter's magic wand, for example), and autographs in the concrete in the outdoor court of Grauman's Chinese Theater. With sidewalk space on the premises getting scarcer each year, imprint ceremonies don't happen very often and are reserved for memorializing Hollywood's most influential entertainment stars. On a typical day when no special event is going on, it's fun and free to wander around in front of the Chinese Theater and look at all the show biz luminaries who have left their marks here over the decades. You can even get a free map showing the stars and celebrities who have left their impressions for posterity at this landmark tourist attraction.

The ornate front doors of Grauman's Theater look virtually the same today as they did in 1927

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Win a The Smurfs DVD
Hurry, Offer Ends 12/22/11

Anton Yelchin, Voice of Clumsy in The Smurfs movie

iPhone Image by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Have you seen The Smurfs? If so, who is your favorite character and why? Please leave a comment and share your thoughts.

FTC Disclosure: Sony Pictures invited me to attend this event as a VIP. MommyBlogExpert did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this particular post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

Arthur Christmas Giftbag Giveaway Holiday Family Animated Comedy Movie Fun, Ends 12/23

2011-12-12T16:27:00.000-08:00

Movie Review & Giveaway

Entry details below

Since Thanksgiving weekend Arthur Christmas -- the 3D CG-animated family comedy presented by Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures Animation in theaters nationwide and produced by Aardman -- has been spreading holiday cheer to kids, parents, and even adults without children. That's because in this version of the legend of Santa Claus you'll see the semi-retired fat jolly guy in red like never before: Going high tech, no longer delivering presents via the old-fashioned chimneys of Christmases past. I don't want to spoil the movie for those who haven't seen it yet, so suffice it to say that Santa is more of a figurehead nowadays with a huge family of other Santas that actually get the job done, including Arthur who is Santa's youngest son.

Leave a Comment on Post to Enter, Contest details below
iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

This is the first Sony film collaboration with Aardman, the award-winning animation company previously only known for stop-motion films like Chicken Run and Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit. Voices in Arthur Christmas are performed by James McAvoy, Hugh Laurie, Bill Nighy, Jim Broadbent, Imelda Staunton, and Ashley Jensen and the movie was directed by Sarah Smith. Rated PG, the soundtrack features the song Santa Claus is Comin' to Town by teen heart throb singer Justin Bieber from his new album Under the Mistletoe.

With such a hilarious release in theaters right now, it's hard to believe that this is not the only holiday themed entertainment being offered by Sony Pictures Animation this season. Earlier this month Sony released its The Smurfs Limited Edition 3-disc Holiday Blu-Ray & DVD set that includes The Smurfs: A Christmas Carol, a special mini yuletide movie, as well a first-ever two screen interactive option called Smurf-O-Vision that allows viewers to watch the Blu-Ray version and interact with The Smurfs simultaneously on a second device such as an iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch.

Thanks to the motion picture brand, I am excited to be hosting another Mommy Blog Expert - Sony Pictures Animation holiday giveaway. This time you have a chance at winning of some official Arthur Christmas movie merchandise direct from the studio. Read on for details and enter to win now by leaving a comment below as Christmas is just around the corner. No doubt, lots of Arthur Christmas fans would love to win this fun, festive holiday package so please share this with your friends and family too.

Arthur Christmas
Gift Bag
Holiday GIVEAWAY

Ends 12/23/11

One winner receives all Arthur Christmas logo merchandise

Tall 15" Felt Embroidered Hat
10-Page Activity Book
Sticker Sheet from the Movie
Colorful Bookmark
Christmas Button
Candy Cane Pen
Gift Bag

HOW TO ENTER

Just leave a comment(s) below this post! Contest ends December 23, 2011 at 12 midnite PST and is open to legal residents of the U.S. only. Winner will be selected at random from all entries and will be notified via email.

Required (Mandatory) Entry

Optional Extra Entries

1. Follow MBE on Twitter

2. Like MBE on Facebook

3. Subscribe to MommyBlogExpert

4. Follow Arthur Christmas on Twitter

5. Like Arthur Christmas on Facebook

Tweet:

Festive Christmas Holiday @ArthurChristmas Giftbag GIVEAWAY http://tinyurl.com/c4cvgv6 @SonyPictures #xmas #movie #kids Pls RT

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FTC Disclosure: Sony Pictures Animation and Arthur Christmas have provided the prizes for this giveaway. MommyBlogExpert did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post. Sony Pictures is providing the prize and shipping for this giveaway. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

5 Ways How to Teach A Child To Shop for Holiday Gifts for Family & Friends

2011-12-11T20:39:00.000-08:00

Parenting

As moms and dads it's natural for many of us to want to give gifts to our children at the holidays and we derive great joy from doing so. But, as frugal parenting expert Ashley Grimaldo wisely points out, there's an even bigger thrill that comes when our children are on the giving end, getting that same excitement and sense of fulfillment watching others open gifts that they chose or gave. For sure, learning how to select and give gifts isn't something most of are born with and there's a high likelihood that just about any child would benefit from a parent's help and guidance to learn the ropes.

Store Shelves Overwhelm us all, especially kids

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Here's some of Grimaldo's tips for helping children with holiday gift shopping

1. Prepare your child for the experience.
Dragging a kid through Toys 'R Us without buying him something is like parading a starving man through the buffet line and telling him not to eat. So, the first step is to talk to your child before you go to the store, then when you actually go shopping together, remind your the child of the reason for going to the store for this particular trip.

2. Shop sales and use coupons.
Children learn frugal shopping by example both in-store and online. Start now -- even within the context of gift shopping -- by giving your child the opportunity to help you find and take advantage of deals and coupons. Don't forget to visit sites like CouponSherpa for coupon codes for Target and other stores where you will be shopping together. And, by all means, teach kids about shopping securely and safely, especially online.

3. Brainstorm ways to personalize the gift.
This can be a simple as drawing a picture inside a blank holiday card and have you write down what they'd like to say in the card. You might also suggest that older kids make handmade wrapping paper with a paper bag, magazine cutouts, stickers and stamps. Also talk about matching gifts to people like not giving sugar cookies to Grandma because she's a diabetic. The lesson being taught here is gift giving is a great time to really think about what others would appreciate rather than what you'd like to give the recipient.

4. Consider homemade presents.
Working together with your child, come up with some DIY present ideas they can craft mostly without your help using whatever fine motor skills they've developed. Once you gather the materials necessary for them to make these independently, encourage them to work alone but also let them know that if they need your help they can always ask for it.

5. Take advantage of Free Shipping Day on Friday, December 16.
Many companies will be offering free shipping for those who buy online on December 16. Here's where you can turn online shopping into a math lesson, comparing prices in newspaper inserts to those online.

What did you learn about gift giving from your own parents when you were a child? And if you have children of your own what have you taught about the art of shopping for presents for family and friends? Do you have any advice you can share as a comment below this post?

Professor Wormbog Kids Classic Picture Book by Mercer Mayer Review & Giveaway, Ends 1/10/12

2011-12-10T20:27:00.000-08:00

Book Review & Giveaway

Since 1966, award-winning author Mercer Mayer has been writing and illustrating fantastical children’s picture books and has personally penned more than 300 titles to date. For 2011 his book Professor Wormbog in Search for the Zipperump-a-Zoo -- which was originally published in 1976 -- was reintroduced and is currently available in hard cover as well as e-Book formats. This particular title is the same original classic story that launched Mayer's renowned Little Monster Series that has sold millions of copies.

Like his other titles, Professor Wormbog was born out of the author's personal experiences growing up in Arkansas. As always, Mayer's animal characters in this book are as monster ugly as they are approachable and charming. In fact with his illustrative style, it's no surprise that this story and many others he's written -- such as the Little Critter series -- are widely regarded as classics for three generations and counting. Not only are Mayer's books lots of fun to read, each has valuable life lessons that help children who read them to develop socialization and language skills within a creative story-telling context.

Mercer Mayer, Artist of the Year, 2007 National Book Festival

Image from LittleCritter.com

If you are not already familiar with this author's work, you can exprience the writer/illustrator's true wit first hand in the YouTube below. Running approximately 9 minutes, Mercer Mayer reads Professor Wormbog in Search for the Zipperump-a-Zoo -- in the character of the Professor's brother Reginald Wormbog. Come to think of it, this is so cute and lively, you'll likely want your child to watch this with you.

Professor Wormbog in Search for the Zipperump-a-Zoo, Copyright 1976 and 2011 by Mercer Mayer, is published by Fast Pencil Premiere. Available on Amazon for $16.95 in color illustrated 8x10" hard cover; also $4.99 as a PDF or EPUB download.

Mercer Mayer's

Professor Wormbog in Search for the Zipperump-a-Zoo
Book Giveaway

ENDS 1/10/12

WIN A Hard Copy

HOW TO ENTER

Just leave a comment(s) below this post, Contest ends January 10, 2012 at 12 midnite PST and is open to legal residents of the U.S. only. Winner will be selected at random from all entries and will be notified via email.

Required (Mandatory) Entry

Optional Extra Entries

1. Follow MBE on Twitter

2. Like MBE on Facebook

3. Subscribe to MommyBlogExpert

4. Follow author Mercer Mayer on Twitter

5. Follow publisher FastPencil on Twitter

Super ***Bonus Entries***

Tweet:

Professor Wormbog Zipperump-a-Zoo by Mercer Mayer Review & Classic Book #Giveaway http://tinyurl.com/7agr62c #kids #books RT 2 #WIN

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Family-Friendly Giveaways!

Currently Being Hosted by Mommy Blog Expert

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Thanks to Online-Sweepstakes.com for listing this contest in their directory of current giveaways.

FTC Disclosure: The publisher provided the book to me to facilitate this review and also is providing the prize and shipping for this giveaway. MommyBlogExpert did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

Holiday Gift Idea Toy for Kids 5+ Educates & Stimulates Creativity Thru Building Blocks

2011-12-09T13:09:00.000-08:00

Toys Review

Since ancient times simple toys like miniature building blocks have been adored by children in a variety of cultures worldwide. In fact, I recall one of my own fondest memories as a Baby Boomer growing up in the 60s: Spending hours on end building and, of course knocking down, structures constructed with colorful wooden blocks. Today some younger children still play with wood blocks like I did and other generations before. However, more often than not -- just like my own family did when they were little -- modern kindergartners and early elementary age students probably are more likely to be seen playing with plastic creative building playsets like the Blok Squad Construction Site that Mega Bloks recently introduced.
Mega Brands Blok Squad Construction Site Playset

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

My own kids are already teens, so I gave this Mega Brands toy to a good friend who just had a new baby last week but also has two older boys that will soon enter grade school. The very next day she told me that her sons, especially the five year-old, was already having a great time building various construction vehicles with the 395 pieces this Mega Bloks playset comes with.
My son with his first Mega Bloks in the late 1990s

Vintage family photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

The little boy I gave the Blok Squad Construction Site toy to this week will soon be moving into a new home that his family is building right now. For sure, he really had a blast opening his present and playing with all the construction workers and equipment -- including a 4x4, Track Loader, and Road Roller that he made with this set. I have no doubt that this young fellow and his brother will be occupied with this interactive non-electronic toy for hours creating and learning while building his motor skills while mom nurses and diapers the new baby. Come to think of it, for all those reasons and more that explains why this was so well received.

Talk about a toy or game that moms, dads and kids will all be excited about receiving!

A Bobcat Tractor at a real construction site in my neighborhood

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

The creative and educational toy featured in this review is part of the company's new Every Day Heroes Collection that introduces kids to essential community people such as construction workers, fire personnel, and the police. Each set can be enjoyed alone, but with two or three of these special sets your child can build an entire Bloktropolis.

Blok Squad Construction is designed for ages 5 and up. Made by Mega Brands, it is priced at a very affordable $19.99 and is available at Toys "R" Us, Walmart, and Amazon in-store and online in the U.S. Plus in Canada, you can buy this at Walmart CDN, Toys "R" Us (online and in-store), and Zellers.

I hope you'll share your own or your child's experience with playing with Mega Bloks and link to photos of your own with this fun toy. Happy Holidays!

FTC Disclosure: Mega Brands provided the Mega Bloks product reviewed to facilitate this post. However, MommyBlogExpert did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

Olivia Kidtoon Films Wintertime December Family Movie in Theaters & Giveaway, Ends 1/2/12

2011-12-08T20:24:00.000-08:00

Movie Review & Giveaway

Note: All images in this post provided by Kidtoon Films

Every weekend in December Kidtoons Family Matinees is proud to present a foursome of fave Olivia movies at select local theaters nationwide

Olivia Talks Turkey
Olivia's Snow Day
Olivia Builds a Snow Lady
Princess for a Day

So guess what? To celebrate this month's family friendly movie theater program Kidtoon Films is providing an awesome Olivia Grand Prize Pack featuring books, DVD, toys and poster for MommyBlogExpert to giveaway to one lucky reader.

First, enter to win a really fun gift basket loaded with great stuff for children right here on Mommy Blog Expert. All you have to do is leave a comment and your contact info below this post; full contest details below. After you've entered the contest, be sure to see the movie trailer plus download the free Olivia coloring page.

Kidtoon Films

Olivia Wintertime Cheer
Holiday Grand Giveaway

ENDS 1/2/12

Olivia 8-Prize Package includes everything pictured

Olivia: Princess for a Day DVD
Big - Olivia Plush
Mini - Olivia Plush
Olivia Kaladeiscope
Olivia Builds a Snowlady Book
Olivia Princess for a Day Book
Olivia Puzzle
Olivia theatrical poster

HOW TO ENTER

Just leave a comment(s) below this post, Contest ends January 2, 2012 at 12 midnite PST and is open to legal residents of the U.S. only. Winner will be selected at random from all entries and will be notified via email.

Required (Mandatory) Entry

Optional Extra Entries

1. Follow MBE on Twitter

2. Like MBE on Facebook

3. Subscribe to MommyBlogExpert

4. Follow Kidtoons on Twitter

5. Like Kidtoons on Facebook

Super ***Bonus Entries***

Tweet:
Olivia Wintertime Cheer Grand Holiday Family GIVEAWAY @KidtoonFilms Movie #toys #DVD #kids http://tinyurl.com/867mpko RT 2 #WIN

Mommy Blog Expert is excited to be one of the few blogs to hosting Kidtoons family friendly monthly movie giveaways in connection with screenings for children in theaters nationwide. Past Kidtoons movie giveaways on MBE include: Spookley Square Pumpkin Care Bears: Share Bear Shines Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas Barbie A Fairy Secret Little Engine That Could Strawberry Shortcake: Sky's the Limit Olivia and the Great Outdoors Thomas & Friends: Hero of the Rails Babar and the Adventures of Badou: Swing Into Summer Candy Land The Great Lollipop Adventure, Sid the Science Kid Spookley Square Pumpkin 2011 and Thomas & Friends Day of Diesels.

LOTS More

Family-Friendly Giveaways!

Currently Being Hosted by Mommy Blog Expert

ENTER Them All HERE

Thanks to Online-Sweepstakes.com for including this contest in your directory of current giveaways.

FTC Disclosure: Kidtoon Films is providing the prizes and shipping for this giveaway. However, MommyBlogExpert did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

Wordless Wednesday: Life is Not a Through Street - Stop, Smell & Enjoy The Images of Fall

2011-12-07T21:25:00.000-08:00

Nature
Beauty in my neighborhood

All iPhone Images in this Wordless Essay
by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Life is...

What kinds of beautiful natural things have you seen today where you live? Please leave a comment and share.

Movies on Demand New Holiday Video Releases & Visa Giftcard GIVEAWAY, Enter Daily, Ends 12/20

2011-12-06T09:33:00.000-08:00

Movies & Giveaway

Details below, Ends 12/20

Eventhough my own children have worked professionally in feature films and television with Academy Award winning actors and actresses like Nicolas Cage, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jessica Lange, Sissy Spacek, Catherine Keener, and many others, I never get tired of Hollywood and movies. I still love watching both on the big screen and at home. So, when I learned that Movies on Demand (MOD) makes it possible to access the films you want to see at the push of a button -- many available the same day as when they are released on DVD and some reportedly 28 days ahead of competing rental options like Netflix and Redbox -- I had to share the deets in a post for my readers. MOD is also providing this blog's readers to win a nice prize package that includes a $25 Visa Giftcard plus other prizes.

Actress Sissy Spacek with me & one of my triplets
On set for filming the feature Blast from the Past
Vintage Polaroid Photo

The convenience of Movies on Demand is obvious. For more on the advantages to MOD, visit this Facebook app. Definitely check out another of the company's apps called Click Your Flick, too.

Movies on Demand's Holiday Season lineup of new releases includes some really good movies that I know I'm going to want to see since I missed them in theaters. You can stay up to date on the brand's new releases on the brand's constantly updated YouTube Channel.

Feature films released on MOD this week

Cowboys & Aliens, 12/6
The Hangover 2, 12/6
The Help, 12/6
Kung Fu Panda: The Kaboom of Doom, 12/9

Leonard Maltin tells you more

So, what are you waiting for? Go grab some new releases today. But, before you do, be sure to enter the Movies on Demand giveaway Mommy Blog Expert is hosting. Scroll down for details on how easy it is for you to win.

Movies on Demand

Holiday GIVEAWAY

Ends 12/20/11

The Movies on Demand prize package includes

$25 Visa Giftcard
Fast Five T-shirt
Movies on Demand tote bag

HOW TO ENTER

Just leave a comment(s) below this post! Contest ends December 20, 2011 at 12 midnite PST and is open to legal residents of the U.S. only. Winner will be selected at random from all entries and will be notified via email.

Required (Mandatory) Entry

Optional Extra Entries

1. Follow MBE on Twitter

2. Like MBE on Facebook

3. Subscribe to MommyBlogExpert

4. Follow Movies on Demand on Twitter

5. Like Movies on Demand on Facebook

Super ***Bonus Entries***
You can earn even MORE chances to win each time you TWEET the message below, up to 3 times each day. Don't forget to return to leave a comment on this post with the direct link right after every Tweet you do so you'll receive an entry for each of your RTs.

Tweet:
Visa Giftcard @MoviesonDemand #Giveaway ~ Easy entry, just Comment & UR entered to #WIN http://tinyurl.com/7wmb9p6 @momspark #movies RT

LOTS More Family-Friendly Giveaways!
Currently Being Hosted by Mommy Blog Expert

ENTER Them All HERE

FTC Disclosure: This review was made possible by Mom Spark Media. I was compensated for my time investment and work on this campaign. Thoughts are my own. All prizing for MSM giveaways is handled by a thirdparty unless otherwise noted. For this reason prize fulfillment can take upto 90 days after the winners information is received. See additional details on MommyBlogExpert's disclosure policy at the bottom of this and every page on this blog.

GIVEAWAY ~ Say Anything ~ Family Board Game That Makes Kids & Adults Think, Ends 1/2/12

2011-12-05T16:41:00.000-08:00

Giveaway

Details below, Ends 1/2/12

WIN Say Anything, the award-winning family friendly board game featured in a recent Mommy Blog Expert review that gets everyone to think. This game is non-electronic, making it perfect entertainment and fun for kids and adults getting together at any holiday party and all year round at occasions when family or friends gather.

Say Anything from NorthStar Games

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

NorthStar Games

Say Anything GIVEAWAY

Ends 1/2/12

HOW TO ENTER

Just leave a comment(s) below this post! Contest ends January 2, 2012 at 12 midnite PST and is open to legal residents of the U.S. only. Winner will be selected at random from all entries and will be notified via email.

Required (Mandatory) Entry

Optional Extra Entries

1. Follow MBE on Twitter

2. Like MBE on Facebook

3. Subscribe to MommyBlogExpert

4. Follow NorthStar Games on Twitter

5. Like NorthStar Games on Facebook

Super ***Bonus Entries***
You can earn even MORE chances to win each time you TWEET the message below, up to 3 times each day. Don't forget to return to leave a comment on this post with the direct link right after every Tweet you do so you'll receive an entry for each of your RTs.

Tweet:
GIVEAWAY Say Anything @NorthStarGames Family Friendly Board Game http://tinyurl.com/7oarjst #holidays #kids RT 2 #WIN

LOTS More Family-Friendly Giveaways!
Currently Being Hosted by Mommy Blog Expert

ENTER Them All HERE

Thanks to Online-Sweepstakes.com for including this contest in your directory of current giveaways.

FTC Disclosure: MommyBlogExpert received this game for review on a separate MBE post. NorthStar Games is providing the prize and shipping for this giveaway. I did not receive any other payment or compensation associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.