Pajama Mommy - A Women and Mothers Blogger Community A Women and Mothers Magazine

The Minnesota Children’s Museum Summertime Exhibit

Sandy — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 10:00:10 +0000

Please see information on our newest exhibit Run! Jump! Fly! Adventures in Action(tm) a new, extremely hands-on exhibit that lets kids try out activities they’ve never before encountered and helps develop balance, strength, coordination, and cardiovascular endurance while they pretend to be action heroes in training. It is designed to help combat childhood obesity and inactivity by showcasing the fun and other benefits of fitness activities they can pursue alone, with their families, or in teams. Open from JUNE 6 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 6.

The exhibit is bilingual, with information presented in English and Spanish, and the activities are accessible to children with varying physical abilities and developmental needs.

In the Snowboarding and Surfing adventure gallery, children try on Hawaiian shirts or down-style vests, step onto a balance boards and see how long they can stay on for the ride. A motion sensor triggers a two-minute video sequence that takes them through pine trees and past lakes as they snowboard down a mountain. Then the video takes the riders off the edge of a cliff and sailing into the clouds before landing as surfers in the ocean. (Once you’ve mastered the basic board, be sure to step up to the advanced ride!)

The Kung Fu Forest is a setting for a martial-arts session, focusing on physical coordination. Discover the art’s principles-strength, peace and respect-in positions inspired by the rooster, the snake, and the tiger. When you’ve mastered these, try stringing them together and follow a master’s graceful, fluid, and strong moves.

Another action gallery, the Climbing Canyon, features four different trails that highlight the role of strength training in physical fitness: the Toddler Trail, Beginners’ Bend, Rugged Ridge, and the Extreme Expanse. No matter your ability level, you can successfully traverse a trail and then explore a cave holding hidden treasure. Try using handholds and footholds to cross horizontal walls, and discover how lifting and holding up your own body weight can make you stronger.

At the Flycycle Sky gallery, exercise your imagination and build your endurance by strapping on a bike helmet, climbing onto one of the special bikes outfitted s with wings and propellers, and soaring up, up, and away! Pedal fast enough and long enough and you can make a star light up before you. Then another, and another, until you’ve lit up the sky. The flycycles vary in form: one is a tandem bike with a recumbent seat in front, an upright in back and two pairs of wings above; another is a hand-pedaled chariot with an overhead propeller.

In the Action Star Training Center you can combine your balance, strength, coordination, and endurance skills in activities easily done at home after your Museum visit. Learn to do some yoga stretches and poses, try fun playground strength devises like monkey bars, and choose dance moves and music that will get your heart pumping! Be sure to pick up your own 3-Day Mission Action Tracker, an activity logs where you can record your exercise and training routines, and aim for a healthy goal of 60 minutes or movement a day.

Don’t miss the Museum’s special sports-related and exercise-oriented programs this summer:

The new Sportacular Weekend family festival Saturday and Sunday, July 11 and 12, 10am-5pm (All ages)

Play Lab Workshop Series: Let’s Get Healthy!, Saturday and Sunday, July 18 and 19, 11:30am-12:30pm (Ages 2 1/2-5) Pre-registration required; call (718) 735-4400 x106

Chase Wonder Why Workshop Series: Breakfast of Champions, Saturday and Sunday, July 25 and 26, 11:30am-12:30pm and 3-4pm (Ages 5+)

Run! Jump! Fly! Adventures in Action was created by Minnesota Children’s Museum as part of the Youth Museum Exhibit Collaborative (YMEC), a consortium of nine leading North American youth museums.

Book Review: The Chris Farley Show: A Biography in Three Acts ~ Jr., Tom Farley

Sandy — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 10:00:04 +0000

Chris Farley was bigger than life. A very funny comedian that most people thought would go far. He was a religious person, something I didn’t know until I read the book. It was written with love remembering good and bad memories from his older brother, who like most of the people close to Chris, tried very hard to help him through his addictions, and life spinning out of control. Written in a way that goes through three different periods leading up to and including his tragic death, is told in different small memories from all those close to him, family and friends, and associates he worked with. I really liked this book, as it told all sides from different views, and from different people. I learned a lot about the guy behind the laughter, that I never saw when I watched him on Saturday Night Live or in his movies. It was candid and blunt at times, but was told how it should have been told. The side of Chris that his brother wanted everyone to know about, and remember. I have a new respect for Chris Farley after reading this and know that had it not been for the addictions in his life he would have gone on for a long time in the “industry”, as he had the love of a tight knit family and friends in his corner routing him on.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Kurgo(r) to Donate Proceeds to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation

Jessica — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 10:00:49 +0000

Kurgo(r) Products is proud to announce a new Pink version of its Tru-Fit Smart Harness and Wander Leash. This is a simple to use walking and car safety harness that provides a comfortable, secure way to travel. Kurgo(r) would like consumers to know that they will be donating 5% of profits from each Pink Tru-Fit Smart Harness sold, to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

“We enjoy helping in any way that we can. Given the research showing exercise may help reduce the likelihood of breast cancer, it only seemed right to contribute a portion of our proceeds towards the fight against this disease,” said Kurgo co-founder and Tru-Fit Smart Harness designer Kitter Spater. “Breast Cancer Research Foundation is an amazing organization raising essential funds needed for research and awareness studies in leading medical centers worldwide.”

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation is a (501) (C) (3) not-for-profit organization. Established officially in 1993, the BCRF has increased its annual funding level more than 200 times over. The organization holds many different fundraiser events every year including breast cancer walks and runs. The American Cancer Society attributes improved breast cancer survival rates to a healthy lifestyle, and studies prove that exercise may help prevent the disease at all ages. Here at Kurgo we believe in the power of fitness and feel that dogs positively impact this in our everyday lives. Not only do they inspire one to get up-and-out, but studies show they help build an overall better quality of life.

Kurgo is happy to have the new Pink Tru-Fit Smart Harness join the long list of Breast Cancer Research Foundation contributors, and believes this program will be a great success.

Book Review: Rick and Bubba’s Guide to the Almost Perfect Marriage by Rich Burgess and Bill “Bubba” Bussey

Sandy — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 10:00:03 +0000

Well, they are at it again! The two sexiest fat men in the world have written another guide, and it’s about the loving institution of marriage. With their special kind of wit and humor, they deliver a book that is worthy of these two oh so funny men. It covers subjects that are honest and real (we have all seen or been in these scenarios) the way they take into consideration “both” sides of an argument and situation are spot on. Their chapters include: First Impressions, Catching your mate, Ball and Chain? Rick and bubba Unravel the Mystery of the :Marriage vows”, and so many more. I laughed and couldn’t put it down. These two are famous for their Talk Radio Show, and it’s like you’re sitting and listening to them on the show, they write as they talk, funny and full of information! This book also comes with a Cd attached to the back cover, and it is just great they talk about their wives, and it is actually parts from their shows and I was rolling on the floor. It is their usual good ole boys talk and it’s so real and just so truthful! I loved this and have shared it with EVERYONE! It’s definitely a buy for yourself and everyone you know!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Snapily, “A Living Print” Do more this summer with your photos

Sandy — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 10:00:52 +0000

Whether Father’s Day, Birthdays, Weddings, Graduations or Time for Back to School…

Snapily offers a variety of alternative products that are unique, on the cheap and keepsake chic:
* “Blow dad a kiss” from a far

* Create the first family scrapbook. Upload photos of your precious newborn and the family “first” photo

* Wave “hi” to grandparents all the way across the country

* Morph an old photo of your child to a photo of them at graduation

* All newlyweds treasure keepsake items from their wedding day – so why not give ‘em something that will create a blockbuster “motion” picture that will definitely still be around on their 25th Anniversary! Get creative… hunt down those “vintage photos” of the newlyweds when they first started dating and then snap some shots at the wedding – whether it’s their “first kiss” at the altar, to the first dance, or even that priceless and risqué shot of the groom grabbin’ for her garter!

* Give your children braggin’ rights so it’ll be cool to be back in school. Let them design their own personalized notebooks (large or small) that will allow them to morph and mix their favorite action hero, Star Trek character or Hannah Montana images!

With summer in the air there are many festive occasions and I thought you would be interested in “inexpensive ways to put a smile on people’s face and how Snapily is ‘the biggest little thing you can give’ that expresses emotion with sentimental value and say ‘Thank You’, ‘I Love You’, ‘I’m Sorry’, ‘We’re Engaged!’, ‘Happy Father’s Day!’, ‘Let’s BBQ!’, or baby announcement, Snapily lets you do more with your photos and anyone who is about to reach for a greeting card, send invitations or begin a scrapbook should know about this new technology for gift shoppers. I would love to set you up with an account so you can create your own! There isn’t anything we can’t bring to life on the face of a card – it makes a great visual for any story and shoppers would love to know about a cheap and unique keepsake gift that’ll last as long as the Energizer Bunny turning any Hallmark holiday into a unique, cheap and keepsake chic gift (cards are only $3!). Over 7 billion greeting cards end up in the trash every year and that’s not even including how many business cards or invitations get tossed- something tells me, you’re less likely to throw out “living print” cards that are mementos for life.rds, bachelorette invitations, etc.

Book Review: Dance Me, Daddy ~ Cindy Morgan

Sandy — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 10:00:34 +0000

A beautiful book. It was beautifully written and the illustrations were so vibrant and done so well, that my granddaughter Chloe just love to look and flip through the pages. The best part is it comes with a Cd with a song, and Cindy Morgan reading the book, which is Chloe’s favorite part as she loves to follow along. It is a book worthy of gifting, keeping, and sharing. Point of Grace sings the song “King of the world” and it is a beautiful song, and done very well. This book is one that little girls can keep from toddlers’ right up to their wedding day.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Book review: If Your Kid Eats This Book, Everything Will Still Be Okay: How to Know if Your Child’s Injury or Illness Is Really an Emergency ~ Lara Zibners

Sandy — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 10:00:54 +0000

As young or first time Mothers, we have all had an episode where we just did not know what to do. Whether it was a fall, or something stuck in the nose, we did what all young inexperienced moms do. We panicked. Rushed to the phone to either call our Mothers or try to get through to the Pediatrician’s office. God forbid it’s a weekend or after hours. Well, this book can take the guess work out of a lot of everyday mishaps and injuries. It covers everything from the noggin and the nervous system to vomiting diarrhea and dehydration. The chapters were great and covered a lot! With titles like: Ten fingers…eleven toes? A guide to the Newborn’s Body, Behaviors, and symptoms, and the ABC’s: Airway, Breathing and circulation, Seeing and hearing: the Eyes and Ears, and so on. This book does not cover basic childcare. It covers what to do when your child has an injury or you just don’t know what to do. The author Dr. Zibners has a few rules to help us out: A crying child has an airway and is conscious, When “everything hurts” probably nothing is really broken, Babies and toddlers don’t fake pain, Never trust a toddler (who knows what they ate/stuck in their nose/fed the baby?), and always trust your gut. Ah, words to live by. The main thing is to stay calm (famous last words) I was always very good in childhood emergencies, except for choking. I would always yell out are you ok? If one of my three kids coughed! It got to the point where they would go in the other room so they wouldn’t spaz me out!! This book would have saved me a lot of panic attacks and sleepless nights if I had this on my night stand. I suggest everyone buy this if they have little ones or buy it for someone you know with little ones. At least let them get a good night sleep! A very good book.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

timi & leslie Fashionable Diaper Bags

Sandy — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 10:00:38 +0000

This has to be the best looking diaper bag I have ever seen! When I opened the package, my jaw dropped. The bag was huge, and a beautiful salmon like color (never have I seen a bag this luxurious color before). It was soft and had everything a Mom on the go could ask for in a diaper bag. Now the thing I loved most was, (now I am not a new mother, my kids are in their thirties, and the grand kids are ages two to sixteen), it was not only for diapers and baby bottles, this was a bag I was not going to give up to anyone! Now there are places for everything, and you can tell that women who had a baby designed this because she thought of it all. It has ROOM, insulated bottle carrier (now, it can be a baby bottle , a bottle of water, a bottle of soda…you get where I am going with this) it comes with a washable changing pad, an accessories bag , a removable strap, and all kinds of compartments inside and a few outside. It is a bag that can easily go from diaper bag to gym bag to overnight bag to MY bag. I love this and like I said I am not sharing this with anyone, Moms , girlfriends, you can go get your own! Great gift idea for any mom or single woman! You can see the whole line at www.timiandleslie.com.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Summertime fun with www.howstuffworks.com

Sandy — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:58:26 +0000

Learn the History behind Independence Day … Then Plan the Party

Where did the Declaration of Independence come from? Did Jefferson
really write a precursor? Learn about the founding of our country and
more with How Independence Day Works:

Celebrate with family and friends through Independence Day-themed
crafts, patriotic recipes and fireworks as permitted locally.

*Fourth of July Activities:
*Family Vacations – Fourth of July Festivities:
*Patriotic Recipes:
*How Fireworks Work:

Explore the Science behind the Suntan… and the Dreaded Sunburn

Ever wonder how suntans and sunburns work? What makes you turn red?
Why does sunscreen work? Learn where your rosy summer color comes from

What happens when you get too much sun? Learn the quickest ways to
remedy that burn, or better yet, how to prevent it from happening again

No matter what activity you have planned this summer, HowStuffWorks.com
can help. From firework safety to ice cream, HowStuffWorks.com is the
first step to building a fun – and safe – summer.

Host the Perfect Summer Barbeque with Expert Grilling Tips and Recipes

Let HowStuffWorks.com be your barbeque and ice-cream social planner with
helpful tips and mouthwatering recipes.

*Grilling Tips:
*How Grills Work:
*BBQ recipes:
*How Ice Cream Works:
*Ice Cream and Sorbet recipes:
Find all this and so much more at www.howstuffworks.com

Sunkist Naturals Drink- Fruit, not sugar.

Sandy — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 10:00:09 +0000

I have finally found a natural drink that my whole family can drink and actually enjoy! My kids and Grand kids LOVED these smoothies and juices. My personal favorite is the Blueberry/Blackberry smoothie, it was so full of flavor, and rich and yummy, that the kids were finishing the bottles and I feel so good knowing that they are getting vitamins and minerals that they wont get from the drinks they usually consume on a daily basis , and they can have these any time of the day, and even as an afternoon snack or pick me up. They come in such a wide variety of flavors, that its impossible not to find one that everyone loves! I have stocked up on these and the family goes through them and I don’t mind when I have to restock, as I feel great knowing that they are good for them! Great product!

The juiciest Marion berries from Oregon and Michigan. Delectable strawberries from coastal California. Legendary Alphonso mangoes from India. In every fruit smoothie bottle of Sunkist Naturals, consumers find 100 percent fresh tasting juices sourced from small regional farms. Its flavors feature no added sugar, preservatives or any artificial ingredients for an off-the-vine taste that is packed with antioxidants, vitamins and nutrients.

Whether it’s to start your morning off right or for an afternoon pick-me-up, Sunkist Naturals line of smoothies and juices are healthy treats that taste as good as they are for you. The conveniently sized 15.2 oz and 1 liter bottles are ideal for grab-and-go snacks and for busy families. Sunkist Naturals may be the closest thing to making fresh smoothies and juices in your own kitchen, only without having to dust off the blender.

Sunkist Naturals’ line of premium, all-natural smoothies and juices is available in the refrigerated produce sections of supermarkets across the country. For more information and store locations, please visit www.sunkistnaturals.com.

Sunkist Naturals retails for $2.79 for 15.2 oz and $3.99 for 1 liter. Varieties follow:

Strawberry DreamTM
• Real strawberry flavor
• Made with vine-ripened strawberries grown on California coastal farms
• Rich in vitamin C
• Good source of potassium
• Natural omega 3 & dietary fiber

Berry Blue Bountiful®
• Mouthwatering berry taste
• Made with Marion blackberries and blueberries from Oregon and Michigan farms
• Rich in B vitamins: thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, biotin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and pantothenic acid. High in vitamin C.
Golden MangoTM
• Velvety golden mango smoothie that delivers ambrosia like flavor
• Made from renowned Alphonso mangoes from Maharastra Western India
• High in antioxidant vitamins
A & C
• Good source of potassium
• Natural omega 3 & dietary fiber

Pomegranate SunshineTM
• Superantioxidant smoothie
• High in vitamins A & C
• Super B vitamins
• 4 grams of fiber per bottle
• Fat free

100% Valencia Orange
• Healthy, fresh tasting Valencia orange juice
• Squeezed from super-sweet Valencia oranges
• Rich in vitamin C
• Good source of potassium

Berry Cherry Bountiful®
• Juicy, fresh berry taste
• Made with mahogany Bing cherries, Marion blackberries and red raspberries from Oregon and Michigan farms
• High in antioxidant vitamins
A,C & E
• Contains omega 3
• Good source of B vitamins

Glorious GreensTM
• Nutrient-rich smoothie
• Made with apples, kiwis and 14 healthy greens including wheat grass, flax seed, spirulina and green tea
• Rich in heart-healthy omega 3
• Excellent source of vitamin C
• Good source of vitamin B complex & vitamin K

Orange CreamTM*
• Whipped creamy orange vanilla protein smoothie
• Made with California orange, whey protein and real vanilla
• Over 11g protein per serving
• Rich in iron
• Excellent source of vitamin C
• Low in fat

NEW! Sunkist Light
80 Calorie Smoothies
“Drink Fruit, Not Sugar”
• 40 percent less calories and carbohydrates than traditional smoothies
• Less sugar
• Low in fat
• Features crushed, squeezed and blended fruits
• Flavors include: Strawberry Banana, which is high in vitamin C and rich in calcium; Blackberry Blueberry, which is bursting with B vitamins and high in vitamin C; and Pomegranate Cherry, which is packed with antioxidants and high in vitamins A, B & C

Mindful Mama

Sandy — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 13:00:05 +0000

Becoming a parent is an incredible, transformational experience. It is also
a time where you’re looking for information, guidance, and community—and you can find that community at Mindful Mama.

Starting on Mother’s Day thru August 1st, Mindful Mama will be debuting the Rites of Passage online video series and interactive community contest, inviting parents across the US to share their experiences of pregnancy, birth and adoption, thru art, photo and essay. The Rites of Passage video series, featuring 22 renowned doctors, midwives, authors, movie producers and advocates of safe and empowered childbirth, includes such inspirational leaders as Ina May Gaskin, Penny Simkin, Ricki Lake, and Michel Odent. To see a short promotional video for rites of passage, visit http://www.mindful-mama.com/ritesofpassage

Mindful Mama encourages mothers and fathers everywhere to share their
experience of transformation thru art, poetry, sculpture, and essay. Winners
will be based on public opinion and bravery. The grand prize will be a luxurious—and of course—mindful, travel getaway. Other prizes include a
Green Nursery and eco gear for the whole family. We encourage you to share
this information, and these inspiring videos with your readers- make sure
they hear about it from you!

Rites of Passage Contest Facts
Share with us: How has becoming a parent transformed you?
Deadline for contest submissions: August 10, 2009
How: Art, photo, essay, and discussion

Elastomer Stretch Ring (Mature Content)

Mrs. X — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 11:10:08 +0000

A lot of couples look for new ways to bring spice to the bedroom without going to an extreme, and without breaking the bank. The Elastomer String Ring for the man is a great way to start. This ring stretches to fit over the penis and the testicles to help prolong the erection.

All this done for only $8 USD. Can you believe it?

The ring itself stretches up to 5 inches. So for most couples it will be an easy fit. If you’re nervous about the girth of your man zone then give Babeland a call (800) 658-9119 They are more than happy to help you figure out an alternative if you believe this may not be the perfect fit for you!

But remember these rings are suppose to be on the snug side, its to help prolong the erection and keep the blood thats flowed to your penis..in your penis. (This my dear folks is what creates the erection )

So check out the Elastomer Stretch Ring today!

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Book Review: When Darkness Comes by Alexandra Ivy

Head Mommy — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:29:08 +0000

Who doesn’t love paranormal romance that deals with vampires? I sure as heck know I do. In this new series by Alexandra Ivy you get a new take on demons, witches, goddesses, vampires and werewolves. This story is about the chalice which is a female that houses the Phoenix which is a goddess. The goddess is protected by the “beast” in this case it is the delectable pirate styled vampire named Dante.

The main character Abby starts off as a little weak character wise but the author really does later do justice to her character developing her better and you become more endearing to her once you find out about her background and the trials thrown her way. You also get the new take on vampires which is amazing and truly an interesting idea.

Dante has been attracted to Abby since she came to work as an assistant for the Phoenix (she didn’t know she was working for her) and Abby who finds Dante delicious is still intent on rejecting him. Until something happens and she witnesses the death of the Phoenix. She and Dante are forced to go on the run, and during their crazy ordeals they of course run from the bad guys and into their passion for one another. Rrawr. It is truly delicious with a good amount of romance, as well as true character creation.

Abby has to deal with a lot and she truly does get support from Dante and even though at some points you want to kick him in the shin you can see his point of view and does his best to work within Abby’s skill set or lack there-of.

The book is good read and I can’t wait to check out the second in the series!

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Gerber Graduate Smart Sips

Jessica — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 16:39:06 +0000

Did you know…

Almost 100% of toddlers don’t get enough of an essential nutrient in a given day (FITS, 2002)
75% of toddlers get too much saturated fat (FITS, 2002)
25% of toddlers are not eating any fruit or vegetable in a given day (FITS, 2002)
More than 50% of toddlers do not get enough essential omega 3 fat (alpha linolenic acid) in a given day (FITS, 2002)

It is true that children do not always get their essential nutrients in a given day and as a parent, it can be difficult to make sure that your children are meeting their nutritional needs. Gerber has recognized the importance of filling important nutrient gaps in your toddler’s diet by creating Gerber Graduate Smart Sip s. Smart Sips are an all-new nutritious beverage made with non-fat milk. Gerber Graduate Smart Sips have no added sugars and contain 15 essential vitamins, minerals and Omega-3 fat to support your toddler’s healthy growth and development. Research shows that many toddlers don’t get enough iron, calcium, or vitamins D & E. In fact, 100% of toddlers have vitamins E intakes below the recommended level. Also, many toddlers eat too much saturated fat and not enough essential omega-3 fats (FITS, 2002).

Parents can feel great knowing they are giving their children something they will not only love, but that will help ensure their child’s health!

Kenneth Brown Nursery Collections

Jessica — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 16:31:28 +0000

On January 26th, the infamous Kenneth Brown announced the launch of his first ever collection of baby bedding and accessories for sale exclusively at Babies”R”Us. Kenneth Brown’s collection consists of 3 lines: Monkey Vine, Lady Bug Paisley and Handsome Puppy. Each line features a bedding set that includes a bumper, crib sheet, duvet with filler and dust ruffle along with complementary accessories such as a window valance, mobile,lamp, wall art, wall decals, diaper stacker, baby blanket and changing pad cover.

I recently was able to get my hands on the Monkey Vine collection and seriously, it is one of the most adorable nursery sets I have laid my eyes on. Having had two nurseries to decorate in my lifetime, I have browsed over a hundred collections for the “perfect” set. Something simple, yet elegant with vibrant colors. The Monkey Vine collection is just that. You will find a combination of stripes, polka dots and beautiful, calming colors. The bumper and duvet are probably the cutest part of the bedding with the monkey design on each item.

So if you are in the market for affordable chic nursery bedding and accessories, I recommend looking into the Kenneth Brown collection. You will not be disappointed.

Tracey Singer’s Sweets N’ Treats Debut CD for kids

Sandy — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 16:18:59 +0000

I have written and reviewed books and such with my grandson Jordon in mind as he was diagnosed with Autism. We try to give him a wide range of things to stimulate his imagination, and motor skills as well as his social skills. His new “thing” is a listening to music on his Cd player. He loves to listen to music and sing his little heart out! Well, I gave him Tracey Singer’s new Cd to listen and he just went over the moon!! He sings right along and plays the whole Cd and then hits repeat after every song and it has become his new favorite! The songs are toe tapping and fun. All kids will just love this and some adults too!

San Diego based Tracey Singer (yes that is his real name) is a new voice on the kids¹ music scene, and his debut CD comes with impressive credentials. Set for a July 7 release, Sweets n¹ Treats, was produced by two-time GRAMMY nominee, children¹s musician Buck Howdy.

A consummate professional trained in the ³Great American Songbook
tradition, Tracey Singer has, for many years, enjoyed a very successful solo career as vocalist/pianist, performing pop and jazz standards in an array of settings ranging from restaurants, clubs, and performing arts centers to corporate and private events.

While maintaining quite an active performing schedule, Tracey is also an at-home dad to four children under age nine. He explains, After one child turned into two, three, and four, the overwhelming influence that those kids had on every second of my life convinced me to turn, musically, to writing and performing music for the one audience I have come to know best, children.

Introducing such memorable characters as Foxy Joe, Hard-Hearted Haley, and the remarkable Mall Mom, with song styles ranging from old time rock n’ roll (featuring Marc Intravaia¹s blazing electric lead guitar solo) to close harmony vocals reminiscent of late 40s Andrews Sisters (backed by the sweet and soulful sounds of the album¹s resident soprano saxophonist, Tripp Sprague), Sweets n¹ Treats is much more than a simple, happy, pop music romp. Tracey¹s wit and style shine through this album filled with sophisticated harmonies and intelligently crafted compositions. Tremendous attention to detail has resulted in such special touches as the inspiring contributions of multi-instrumentalist Dennis Caplinger, who offers brilliant work on acoustic guitar, electric guitar, banjo, mandolin, Dobro, fiddle, and jaw harp.
Great as a gift for any little one who loves to listen and sing along to music and songs!

Book Review: The Darkest Pleasure by Gena Showalter

Head Mommy — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 15:38:52 +0000

Book 3 in the Lords of the Underworld series is just as amazing as the first two. I have to say the personal sorrow that the main warrior in this book, Rhys, goes through is just heart wrenching. Rhys houses the demon pain. which means he cannot feel romantically inclined without pain. Whether he is causing or receiving.

Rhys learned that instead of causing pain to quiet the demon, he can receiving pain and it would suffice. He is constantly inflicting pain, throwing himself out windows etc. Until he meets the one woman who quiets the demon and allows him to feel something other than pain. This is truly an unique love story. You learn the main female character has more than what meets the eye with her personality. Her constant struggle to carry her own weight, and not be forced to become a victim any longer definitely reaches the girl power points for some readers.

But the constant struggle hate love/relationship between she and the warrior is amazing. Many of us have been in those types of relationships where it truly is a thin line between love and hate. The poor woman can only think she has Stockholm Syndrome. Heck, if I went through what she did and surrounded by nothing but gorgeous male warriors…I don’t know if I wouldn’t end up with Stockholm Syndrome myself.

You learn more about the warriors background in here and more about the legends behind them. You also get more information on the pantheons they have to deal with.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Animoto Updates

Sandy — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 16:13:47 +0000

1. NEW VIDEO PLAYER
Watch your old videos or create some new ones–and check out the beautiful new player they sit in! With fat, sleek buttons, better scrubbing, and hugely improved responsiveness, we hope you find it much more usable. Let us know what you think.

2. VIDEO COMMENTS
Now your family and friends can make comments on any of your video creations. You’ll be notified each time they do, so it’s time to get sharing.

3. FASTER UPLOADS
Our server bandwidth DSL bit T1 speed 1200 baud configuration settings have been realigned with Stargate Enterprise and the result is that you now have faster uploads. Give it a try! [Ed. note: this may not be exactly how it happened.]

4. TWEET YOUR VIDEOS
Are you an avid Twitter user? Or are you just a follower?? Ha-ha. Ok seriously, you can now click one button and post your video links straight to Twitter. (Follow us @animoto!)

That’s it. Time to make a video to try all of these out: http://animoto.com/create.

Book Review: The Darkest Kiss by Gena Showalter

Head Mommy — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:12:17 +0000

This is the second series in the Lords of the Underworld series. Now if you aren’t familiar I would say read my previous review on book one to get a little bit of insight. MAKE SURE YOU READ THAT BOOK FIRST OR YOU WILL BE LOST.

Book two is about the character who houses the demon Death. (Book one’s main character housed the demon Violence) Death is ordered to kill the demi-Goddess of chaos. Long story short, the Goddess and the warrior have the hots for each other.

The spark between the two characters and the self torture the warrior puts himself through is moving. I personally found that no matter what character the author was writing about I could personally identify with some quality the character has. As well as no matter how bad the characters can get and how dark their past is they each have a redeeming quality that you can’t help but grasp onto in the hopes they find their one true mate of which whom they can bond, and whom their demon quiets for.

The author is amazing where she picks up almost where the other book left off but yet weaves the story where so many pieces come together beautifully. I’ve read some series which will have giant time gaps between the books (story line time games that is.) I have always found that to be annoying where as Showalter picks up immediately after the book almost. You can flow with the book seamlessly and you can’t truly put these books down. Once you put the book down its only truly to get the next book in the series.

Each character you fall in love with, no matter how crazy they are. Female wise I have to say Anya is my favorite leading character because of how she doesn’t let anyone get to her, as well as gives the warriors much needed flack to help tame in their arrogance.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Joyce Meyer Joins Pahappahooey Island Cast in Special Episode

Sandy — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 16:12:31 +0000

This August, audiences can join New York Times bestselling author and acclaimed Christian speaker Joyce Meyer on an exciting puppet adventure as she takes on the role of Miss Ruby in the newest installment of the popular and award winning children’s series Pahappahooey Island.

Pahappahooey Island: What About Me!?, presented by Anchor Bay Entertainment, will arrive in stores Aug. 25 (pre-booking available July 23). The title, “What About Me!?” is based on one of Joyce Meyer’s most popular teaching messages.

What About Me!? follows a group of furry friends as they navigate a mysterious, faraway land in search of treasure. Along the way, they encounter secret worlds and new friends to be rescued. With the help of Meyer’s Miss Ruby, the lovable characters learn valuable lessons about working together…all while singing their way into the hearts and minds of children.

The 67-minute DVD features an additional episode, Hide it in Your Heart, which also focuses on the important values of friendship, cooperation and unity.

Both episodes combine memorable music and powerful messages to create the fun, engaging content viewers have come to expect from Pahappahooey Island. The suggested retail price for the DVD is $14.98.

In What About Me?!, Ali, Millard, Captain Hobbs and Hacksaw set off on a special treasure hunt, but evil Ichabone Slink has made them think only of themselves. Can Miss Ruby (voiced by Joyce Meyer) help the friends rediscover the importance of working together?

As for the second episode, Hide it in Your Heart, when very important stuff begins to mysteriously disappear, Fernando and Guiseppe join their friends on a mission to find the culprits. But will they discover a safer place than Millard’s fanny pack to keep their most precious possessions?

Vermont Nut Free Chocolates: Gourmet Chocolates without Nuts, safe for those with nut or peanut allergies

Sandy — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 15:43:10 +0000

I was really surprised at how many people and especially kids who have food allergies. I have never had a problem with allergies, except maybe pollen, and I can’t imagine being a parent of a child who has a food allergy! The Vermont Nut Free chocolates Company has taken the fear out of eating delicious chocolate so that parents and kids can eat chocolate again!

I was so happy to see the wide variety of flavors and assortments of both candy and granolas bars that are available. The chocolate at first I thought was going to taste different like the sugar free or any food that has an ingredient “missing”, but was surprised that it was just as good as any gourmet chocolate I have tasted! And I LOVE chocolate!

So I am very specific at what kind I will eat, and I can honestly say, if I had not already known it was a nut free chocolate, I would not have had a clue! It’s creamy and sweet and really very good. So if you have someone in your life that has had to give up on chocolate because of a nut allergy, or other food allergy, try Vermont Nut Free Chocolates, you will be as happy as I was at how great they are! You can check them out at www.vermontnutfree.com they also have cook books for families with food allergies and also at your request will send you ingredient information on what is put into their chocolates.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Book Review: The Darkest Night by Gena Showalter

Head Mommy — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 15:12:00 +0000

Gena Showalter does have a way with words. You are almost in the middle of action when you start this book. I’m now addicted to paranormal romance and I have to say that this does fill my needs. This story is about immortal warriors who are cursed to house demons. This is book one in a series. So when you start falling in love with the characters to makes it even better since she writes so many more books and introduces so many more characters.

His powers — Inhuman
His passion — Beyond immortal . . .

All her life, Ashlyn Darrow has been tormented by voices from the past. To end the nightmare, she has come to Budapest seeking help from men rumored to have supernatural abilities, not knowing she’ll be swept into the arms of Maddox, their most dangerous member — a man trapped in a hell of his own.

Neither can resist the instant hunger than calms their torments . . . and ignites an irresistible passion. But every heated touch and burning kiss will edge them closer to destruction — and a soul-shattering test of love…

When you read the description of the book let me tell you it doesn’t even give you a hint at how powerful this series is. A lot of readers may compare this to J.R. Ward’s brotherhood series. However, listen to me when I say don’t compare them. You won’t do either of them justice. They are completely amazing individual series. You fall in love with the characters and their vast intelligence yet their ignorance of something as simple as aspirin. It gives the characters an endearing like quality to their fierce warrior persona.

Now some of you who aren’t comfortable with reading romance novels do not worry this isn’t 100% sex. Granted there are sex scenes but it isn’t like every other scene is a sex scene. Its discussed throughout the book but not enough to make me personally uncomfortable. I like a plot and an actual story not pure erotica. I have to say I cannot wait to read the next book in this series. I’m rushing through this review just to get my hands on it!

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Your Baby Can Read Giveaway!

Jessica — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 09:00:31 +0000

Education has become increasingly more important throughout the years. There is a “natural window of opportunity” for learning language where it is easier for children to learn to understand and speak our language at a high level. During this window of opportunity, between the ages of 3 months and 5 years, they can also learn the written word naturally and easily.

Dr. Titzer, creator of Your Baby Can Read, has developed a method of teaching reading that could change how/when our children begin to read. Children usually do not start learning how to read until age 5 or 6, but is that really a good age to be teaching them? Dr. Titzer suggests that the current practice of teaching children reading skills in school is too late and children benefit greatly from getting a much earlier start (e.g. birth to around age four). During the “natural window of opportunity” period- it is easier for a child to learn any type of language including spoken, receptive, foreign and written language. The earlier the the child is taught to read, the most likely it is that they will enjoy it.

Studies have shown that the earlier a child learns to read, the better they perform in school and later on in life. Early readers are said to have more self-esteem and more likely to stay in school. A national penal of reading specialists and educators determined that many of of the nation’s reading problems could be eliminated if children began reading earlier.

To help children excel, Dr. Titzer invented the Your Baby Can Read Early Language Development System. My husband and I have had the pleasure of working with this system and have found it to be a great success in our household. My son, who is two years of age and already had a rather large vocabulary, has learned to recognize words like “hello, cat, dog, ball and bye” when they are written on paper. It is a truly amazing product line to use with your child and will definitely help them soar to great heights.

Education is extremely important to all of us at Pj Mommy, which is why we are excited to announce that we will be giving away the “Your Baby Can Read” deluxe kit (valued at $199)! Parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles- be sure to jump on the opportunity for a chance to win this awesome prize.

Rules

1. Contest is open to U.S. residents only.

2. You must leave a comment.
Additional Entries:

1. You may join our RSS feed preferably through the email subscription having the same email address on the comment that you have in the RSS feed.

2. You may write about our contest on your blog!

3. Tweet about this contest and comment here to tell us!

CONTEST ENDS: JULY 4th, 2009 MIDNIGHT EST.

YoBaby Yogurt Giveaway!

Jessica — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 09:00:02 +0000

Parents can feed their children any ‘ol food that they wish, but how do they know that what they are giving their children to eat is good for them? Well, you really don’t. Unless of course you trace the foods back to the animal they came from or the fields/gardens/tree in which they were grown.

For me, eating organically is top priority when it comes to my children. In fact, one of my children’s favorite snacks is Stonyfield’s YoBaby line of organic yogurts. This year, Stonyfield’s YoBaby organic yogurt line celebrates it’s 10th birthday. To celebrate their 10th birthday, they have reformulated their YoBaby line to include Vitamin D and Zinc- both of which are known to boost immunity and promote the development of strong bones and teeth. Despite being reformulated, YoBaby is still all natural and certified organic, as it is still made with milk from cows fed organic feed and not treated with antibiotics.

To help Stonyfield celebrate YoBaby’s 10th birthday, PJ Mommy is giving away a YoBaby bowl with lid, an organic YoBaby bib, and a bundle of 5 Free YoBaby coupons.
Rules

1. Contest is open to U.S. residents only.

2. You must leave a comment.
Additional Entries:

1. You may join our RSS feed preferably through the email subscription having the same email address on the comment that you have in the RSS feed.

2. You may write about our contest on your blog!

3. Tweet about this contest and comment here to tell us!

CONTEST ENDS: JULY 4th, 2009 MIDNIGHT EST.

Kidlandia Kid’s Fantasylands Family Trees

Sandy — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:00:41 +0000

Kidlandia today announced the launch of a new web destination where parents and kids can spend time online together creating personalized fantasy lands named for the people and places that tell a family’s personal story, and populated by fanciful characters.

At Kidlandia, every child is the King or Queen of their own eponymous fantasy kingdom such as Jacobia, Tuckertopia or Lucyland. With whimsical characters as companions, from horned Uniquills and scowling Grumps to long-trunked Yuhoos cavorting in Peppermint Meadows, kids have fun learning about their family, and creating their own stories about their kingdom.

The child’s unique fantasy land online becomes home décor as a wall art map that displays islands, cities, mountains, and other features named after family and friends. The map is a legacy gift that can be presented as a family heirloom to decorate a child’s room, or ordered as a canvas scroll for sharing on a play date or at family reunions.

Kidlandia is the inspiration of Brian Backus, who started drawing the fascinating, illustrated characters that populate Kidlandia when he was just 4 years old, after being inspired by the stories of family neighbor Dr. Seuss. Backus also attended USC film school and worked as a producer at Disney Interactive. The father of twin preschool-age boys, he decided to create Kidlandia as an online place that would empower and inspire the imaginations of his own children.

“Every child is enthusiastic about being the king or queen of their very own kingdom, with places named after a parent, brother, or best friend, said Backus, Kidlandia CEO and Founder.”Kidlandia provides a personalized and safe way for parents and children to spend quality time online together, learning about and recording their own family stories in a kid-friendly way that then becomes a legacy. I wish my grandmother had one!

Kidlandia maps offer museum quality art at value pricing. They are fine art giclées on thick, high-quality canvas, and are also light-fast to ensure they last for decades. They can be personalized in three simple steps and ordered in a variety of sizes as either a scroll or gallery wrapped. The canvas scroll, ideal as a play item, becomes a portable and easy to clean map that a child can take to school for sharing, or to grandma’s house. Families can also order the gallery wrapped canvas, with the canvas already stretched over a solid pine frame and ready for hanging. Gallery wrap is perfect as décor for a child’s room, or as a legacy heirloom gift for newborns, baby showers and milestone birthdays.

OLYMPUS UNVEILS A NEW ERA WITH THE E-P1

Jessica — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 10:00:55 +0000

A new era of digital imaging begins today with the launch of the Olympus E-P1. The world’s smallest 12.3-megapixel interchangeable lens system camera blends the high-quality still images of a digital single lens reflex (DSLR) with High Definition (HD) video, stereo Linear PCM audio recording and In-Camera Creativity within an ultra-portable body. The easy-to-use E-P1 expands your creative horizons and its diverse multimedia features offer something for everyone. Built for today’s visual generation who lead active lives online and offline, the E-P1 will make you rethink what you can do with a camera.

Capture More of the Life You Live
Shooting spontaneous images of your daily life usually means snapping small, grainy images with your cell phone or using a point-and-shoot if it’s handy. A DSLR delivers incredible image quality, but most aren’t compact enough to roam with you. Now, the E-P1 changes the game with a compact body that delivers the professional quality images of a DSLR without the bulk. Moreover, its sharp HD video capture and stereo audio helps you live a better-documented life because you’re carrying one portable camera rather than a DSLR, an HD camcorder and a high-end audio device.

You can share more of your life with the world when the E-P1 travels with you. Make your Facebook, MySpace, Flickr, YouTube, Twitter and personal blog postings unique by capturing and sharing more videos and photos. You can chronicle more of the life you actually lead, rather than just special occasions you prepare for, like weddings, holidays and birthday parties. Since it’s the only camera to offer in-camera art filters for both still photography and videos with high-end audio, even your everyday activities will look and sound amazing!

“The E-P1 is designed for the mobile, visual generation that lives active lives online and off, and its portability ensures that it will go with you wherever life takes you,” said John Knaur, senior marketing manager, Digital SLR, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “As someone who has shot with an SLR most of my life, I’m excited that SLR-quality images can be captured with a camera this compact and portable. The E-P1 truly allows you to capture it all with the highest still photo image quality blended with HD video, high-end audio, multiple exposure and creative art filters in one small, stylish camera.”

Innovation since 1959: The Olympus PEN
They say that the pen is mightier than the sword, and now the E-P1 takes self-expression to a whole new, powerful level. Olympus has a long history of miniaturizing camera technology. The first-generation Olympus PEN appeared in 1959 and led the way to high-quality images in a small package, matching SLR cameras’ performance of the era.

Today, Olympus utilized its miniaturizing and engineering expertise to create a slimmer body, removing the optical viewfinder and mirror box found inside a traditional DSLR, to create a small but high-quality interchangeable lens camera. By reducing its lens mount diameter, Olympus also enabled the production of smaller and lighter lenses to match the
E-P1’s body size.

Beautifully Designed Stainless-Steel Body
The new camera’s high-end, stainless-steel body is easy to handle and carry, and has the styling and refinement of a precision watch. Its retro-chic look turns heads, from tech aficionados and camera buffs to the fashion-conscious and everyday point-and-shooter. Built to be solid, it fits comfortably in a jacket pocket or a handbag for a night on the town, or to take on any spontaneous adventure. The E-P1 lets you do more and go more places while capturing your life, thanks to its compact size – 4.75″(W) x 2.75″ (H) x 1.43″ (D) – and light 11.8-ounce body. Attention to detail is visible in every aspect of the camera’s retro-style metal body design, available in either silver or white with accompanying new small and lightweight Olympus M. ZUIKO Micro Four Thirds lenses: 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 (28-84mm equivalent) and 17mm f2.8 (34mm equivalent).

The new E-P1 offers many great features derived from the E-System, as well

as many breakthrough innovations, including:

Superior DSLR Image Quality

In-body Image Stabilization

Amazing 3-inch LCD

Proven Dust Reduction System

12 megapixels with next-generation TruePic(tm) V

HD video with high-quality stereo audio

In-camera creative features (for still images and video)

Multiple exposures

Multi-aspect shooting

Multimedia slideshows

Digital leveler

Magnified focus assist

18×18 metering modes

Small accessories for small camera

Ultra-Compact Body Delivers Superior DSLR Image Quality

The E-P1 erases all doubts about whether a compact camera can take images that are equal to those taken by a DSLR, because it has everything you need to produce vibrant DSLR-quality images: a large 12.3-megapixel imager, In-body Image Stabilization, fast Imager Autofocus, the proven Olympus Dust Reduction System and the new TruePic(tm) V Image Processor.

As the first Micro Four Thirds camera from Olympus, the E-P1 provides the same image quality as current Four Thirds format E-System cameras because it has the same image sensor size as the E-30 and E-620 DSLR models, but in a much smaller body. This high-performance 12.3-megapixel Live MOS image sensor delivers excellent dynamic range, accurate color fidelity, and a state-of-the-art amplifier circuit to reduce noise and capture fine image details in both highlight and shadow areas.

Be a Mover, Not a Shaker

Any lens attached to the E-P1 will deliver blur-free images thanks to three modes of In-body Image Stabilization that compensate for up to four steps EV (exposure value). Mechanical Image Stabilization works to automatically compensate for camera shake in low light or when using a telephoto lens. And because the E-P1 is the world’s smallest interchangeable lens camera with built-in Image Stabilization, you’ll feel comfortable taking it on the road with you to capture the action.

Small Real Estate with an Amazing 3-Inch LCD View

What you see on the new camera’s 100 percent accurate, 3-inch full color HyperCrystal LCD is what you get. Consumers accustomed to composing and focusing using a point-and-shoot camera’s LCD will appreciate that the E-P1 offers the same easy, seamless experience when shooting still images or videos. With the new Live Control function, icons appear on the LCD, making it easy to compose, edit and shoot pictures or videos without stopping to access various menus. The E-P1’s fast Imager Autofocus in Live View also enables you to compose, focus and capture the shot quickly and easily without ever taking your eyes off the large LCD.

The LCD displays 230,000 pixels in vivid color and includes HyperCrystal technology, which offers many times the contrast of conventional LCD monitors for easier viewing in both preview and playback. It also provides a wide viewing angle of 176 degrees, which ensures that images can be composed from even the most obscure angles.

This Camera Leaves Others in the Dust

You don’t have to waste precious time worrying about dust ruining the perfect image; instead, spend more of that time shooting with the E-P1. The proven Olympus Dust Reduction System produces spot-free photos with the exclusive Supersonic Wave Filter(tm), a patented ultrasonic technology that vibrates to remove dust and other particles from the front of the image sensor, capturing it on a special adhesive membrane every time the camera is turned on.

Unleash 12 Million Pixels on Your Canvas

The E-P1’s Live MOS image sensor is complemented by Olympus’ next-generation TruePic(tm) V Image Processor, which produces clear and colorful photos using all the pixel information for each image to provide the best digital images possible. The new image processor is noted for accurate natural color, true-to-life flesh tones, brilliant blue skies and precise tonal expression; it also lowers image noise in photos shot at higher ISO settings (ISO 100 to an incredible ISO 6400), enabling great results in low-light situations.

What Will You Create with In-Camera Creativity in HD?

Olympus pioneered easy-to-use Art Filters for still images captured inside its E-System DSLRs, and now those same In-Camera Creative Features are built into the E-P1 with a fresh twist – they can also be applied to High Definition video recordings to take your videos to a new level of creative expression and put you in the director’s chair.

Your movies and YouTube videos will have the incredible clarity of HD whether Art Filters are applied or not. Just imagine how dramatic and unique your videos will appear with any one of the six in-camera Art Filters applied as effects: Pop Art, Soft Focus, Pale & Light Color, Light Tone, Grainy Film or Pin Hole. Whether you’re a videographer, documentarian or established director – or just want to shoot like one – Art Filters set your images and videos apart from the pack. Since they’re built into the camera, you can achieve dramatic results on the go without needing a computer or editing software.

Because the E-P1 is an interchangable lens system camera you have more creative options in composition for video capture, to add to your visual palette. You can attach any one of the new super-compact Micro Four Thirds lenses or, because the camera can accept many of the other Four Thirds Format lenses with an available MMF-1 Four Thirds System Lens Adapter, you can add anything from an extreme wide-angle fisheye lens to a super telephoto lens for a wide range of expressive options. All the while you will have more DSLR-like control over depth of field, focus, white balance and ISO.

What You See Is What You Get

When viewing the LCD in Live View, Art Filter effects and settings like white balance and exposure are viewable right on the LCD, and their impact is seen instantly on the display. This real-time monitoring offers amazing versatility and creative control, and users who apply a setting have
instant gratification because what they see on the camera’s LCD is what they’ve captured. For musicians used to applying audio effects like reverb to their instruments before recording them, the concept of setting the E-P1 to capture precisely the kind of image they want before they press the shutter makes perfect sense. For imaging purists who want to shoot without filters, and apply them to unfiltered images inside the camera later, or just edit images back at their computers, the E-P1 provides these options and opens more in-the-field creative possibilities.

Mix It Up with Multiple Exposures

With the E-P1’s Multiple Exposure function available for still image capture you are free to tell a visual story your way, whether in a portrait, a landscape or a combination of both. The image capture options allow you to shoot one shot, then another and combine them in real time, or capture both shots separately and combine them in the camera later. Overlay your face on top of your pet’s face. Create an “identical twin” of yourself. Put the moon in the sky at noon. Your ability to manipulate space and time makes this new creative multimedia device a veritable time machine.

Frame Your Works of Art Inside the E-P1

You can often achieve greater photographic expression by framing a scene in a unique way. The E-P1 provides four aspect ratios that serve as masks to frame your image to the desired proportions, including: the standard 4:3 aspect ratio that is perfectly suited to an 8 x 10-inch enlargement; the 16:9 aspect ratio that will display your images beautifully on a widescreen television; and other popular aspect ratios such as 3:2 and 6:6. The Multi-Aspect Shooting further expresses your creative vision when combined with Art Filters and multiple exposures.

Stereo Audio Sounds As Good As the E-P1 Images Look

Like the innovative Olympus LS-10 portable audio recording device that puts the power of a recording studio in your pocket, the E-P1 features uncompressed 16 bit/44.1kHz Linear PCM recording capability to capture the rich sound quality of your scene. When you shoot with the E-P1, it’s like having a sound technician built into your camera to capture the nuances of the audio happening all around you. It has the versatility to record and play back in the WAV format and can record with its built-in stereo microphone. Whether recording audio while shooting a video or adding audio by recording a narration to your still images, the E-P1’s audio sounds as great as its images look.

Create Your Own Multimedia Slideshows with Stills, Video and Audio Inside E-P1

Content is king, and with the E-P1 you have your own portable kingdom of still images, HD video, and audio to remix at your command. In playback mode you can seamlessly mix stills and movies inside the camera to create a multimedia slideshow and dub in one of five built-in dramatic background music options to provide a soundtrack for your cinematic creation. Plug the E-P1 into any HD television with an HDMI cable and show off your masterpieces to your audience before the DVD arrives in stores.

As Easy to Use As a Point-and-Shoot with SLR-Quality Technologies

The E-P1 is equipped with 19 automatic scene modes for effortless picture taking. Standard scene modes like Night-Scene, Portrait and Landscape are easy-to-use solutions for everyday shooting. Capturing beautiful portraits is easy with the new ePortrait Mode. It enables you to smooth your subject’s face – all in the camera and before capture! Additionally, edits can be made post-capture using the ePortrait Fix mode.

Shooting scenes with both highlights and shadows can often be dicey because of the extreme contrast between dark and bright areas. The E-P1 addresses this challenge with Shadow Adjustment Technology that adjusts for extreme light variations and maintains visible detail in both the shadow and highlight areas of the scene. Now users can see and preview the gradation on the Live View LCD and capture images showing the shadow detail they saw. This feature is also accessible in the Edit menu after the shot has been taken.

The E-P1’s Face Detection reduces the chance of blurred subjects in images by recognizing up to eight people’s faces and the background, tracking the faces within the image area, even if people are moving, and automatically focusing and optimizing exposure for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures (ideal for large family or party group photos).

If you don’t want to change camera settings every time you’re shooting something different, then the E-P1’s Intelligent Auto Mode is for you. It automatically identifies what you are shooting (Portrait, Landscape, Night + Portrait, Macro, Sports) and adjusts settings to capture the best result depending on the situation. First-time users will enjoy this quick and hassle-free feature, which does the thinking for them and produces incredible images like a pro.

The New Super Control Panel with Live Control technology, along with the camera’s intuitive button layout, enables you to see both the image and the controls on the 3-inch HyperCrystal LCD, making the camera simple to use. The E-P1 records to SDHC media cards to accommodate large files including videos with In-Camera Creative Features and uncompressed audio.

Digital Leveler

The E-P1 is equipped with an internal Digital Level Sensor that detects the camera’s pitch and roll and indicates it on the control panel. This Digital Leveler is a tremendous benefit when capturing landscapes. Level the perfect coastline shot on your next tropical vacation without being tethered to a computer and editing software.

Magnified Focus Assist

To enable accurate manual focusing the E-P1 provides MF Assist Function and Magnification Display. In S-AF + MF or MF, the MF assist enables you to zoom up the central part of the image by up to 5 times by turning the focus ring. The Magnification Display lets you magnify the image on the LCD by up to 7X at the touch of a button. Additionally, if you use the dial, you can boost magnification all the way up to 10X for more precise manual focusing.

18×18 Metering Modes

This mode divides the image area into an 18 x 18 grid, metering each of the 324 separate cells to obtain optimum exposure. In addition to 324-division ESP metering, center-weighted metering and spot metering modes are also available.

Smaller Accessories for Small Camera

In addition to the new Micro Four Thirds lenses, Olympus also offers an optional Clip-on Optical Viewfinder for use with the Micro Four Thirds 17mm f2.8 (34mm equivalent) lens. The MMF-1 Four Thirds System Lens Adapter enables all Olympus ZUIKO Digital lenses as well as Four Thirds System lenses from Sigma, Panasonic and Leica lenses to attach to the E-P1. If you have Olympus OM lenses and want to attach them to the E-P1, that is possible with the MF-2 OM Lens Adapter. Additionally, an optional FL-14 flash unit, suitably small for the camera, adds more lighting versatility to your shots.

OLYMPUS Master 2 Software

Use the included Olympus Master 2 software (Mac and PC) to easily download images from the camera or other external device, such as a USB drive, and automatically organize them into albums and groups and by date. Develop high-quality RAW images, apply Art Filter effects, edit and print images. Update camera and lens firmware through the software and download additional menu languages. A direct link makes uploading your images and videos to YouTube(tm) easier than ever.

OLYMPUS Studio 2 (Trial Edition Included)

Extend the capability of Olympus Master 2 with Olympus Studio 2. In addition to the functions of OLYMPUS Master 2, this software includes a lightbox mode and selection marks for comparing and sorting multiple images. RAW processing is enhanced with additional controls for finer adjustments. The trial edition can be used for 30 days after installation. After the trial period has expired, a license key is required for further use.

Availability

The Olympus E-P1 will be available in July 2009. It includes E-P1 Body, USB Cable, Video Cable, Li-Ion Battery Pack (BLS-1), Li-Ion Battery Charger (BCS-1), Shoulder Strap, OLYMPUS Master 2 Software CD-ROM, Manuals and Registration card.

U.S. Pricing / Product Configurations

E-P1 Body Estimated Street Price: $749.99

E-P1 Body with ED 14-42mm f3.5/5.6 Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens Estimated Street
Price: $799.99

E-P1 Body with ED 17mm f2.8 with optical viewfinder Estimated Street Price:
$899.99

Spring Cleaning: How to get Fit in All Areas in the Next 60 Days

Sandy — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 16:06:43 +0000

One of the things I love about the work that I do is that it’s all encompassing. Fitness isn’t just about being physically fit. It’s about your mind, body, and soul. If even one of those areas is off balance, your life will feel out of sync, because you are one being, and it’s important not to neglect any part of you.

Does your inside, match your outside?
As a fitness expert for decades, I’ve coached men and women to get themselves in the ultimate shape, from the inside out. Exercise is an important part of life, and how you fuel your body, affects your mind, the way you operate and function, and how well you can perform in all areas of your life. Your body is your temple, a machine, and how well you energize it and fuel it determines how well it works! It sounds simple, but if it were, the diet and fitness industry wouldn’t be as massive as it is today!

When someone wants to improve their physical fitness, there are often other areas that need improvement as well. Whether it’s an everyday person with a normal job or a television personality — we’re all human. We all have the same core issues and needs.
When I worked with one of The Real Housewives of Orange County cast members Jeanna Keough, I focused on the inside, as well as the outside. She’d been in the throes of a divorce, and the resulting feelings and trauma from that would naturally take a toll.
It’s important not to overlook what is going on inside someone, when you’re coaching them on external changes. It’s all integrated, and who we are inside, affects who we are outside. Exercise is an important part of life, yet one of the hallmarks of depression is an inactive lifestyle. Psychologists will tell you that it’s hard for someone who is depressed to think about moving. But moving is exactly what’s needed to lift your mood, and create the physical changes you desire. Even in the darkest valley of your life, it’s important to see the light, and reach for it. Often that’s the first step in mental and physical wellness.

One important and still relevant life lesson stems from the old term no pain, no gain. Throughout the peaks and valleys in your life you’ll discover that true strength comes from the ashes of struggle. This is the same way with physical fitness and it’s a big focus in my training and coaching programs, because a lot of people are trying to understand how to get from where they are, to where they want to be. How do you get out of debt, shed 50 pounds, and achieve the life of your dreams? It seems impossible when you’re in the pit of depression, when you’re in debt, when you’re overweight, or struggling. But it’s all possible, and I coach people how to take one day, and one step at a time to transform.

How?
Step 1: Take action in your life today.
You must be willing to let go of the life that you have (or some things within it) in order to grasp the life ahead of you, the life you are destined for! This lesson is about letting go, and moving on. It’s about taking action in order to live the life of your dreams!

Are there people, places, or even things you need to let go of? Make a list today and you’ll be amazed at how this one simple act ignites transformation. Once you do you are free to take action towards your dreams because you’re moving in the right direction, without any anchors or unnecessary baggage.

Step 2: Keep moving.
Movement is about creating inertia, in your body, mind and soul. When you move mentally, you create change. When you move physically, your external body transforms!

There is power, in movement.

Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and body. That increases the amount of oxygen and removes cellular waste products. Physical exercise causes the lungs to draw in extra oxygen to bathe the tissues and help power the heart. Exhalation removes carbon dioxide, and waste products from biochemical reactions. It’s the same when you exercise your mind and take steps towards your dreams. When you take action, instead of waiting to attract something, your life unfolds and things start to happen!

Step 3: Take a holistic approach.
Don’t allow yourself to focus too much on one area, only. Give yourself a brief assessment. Are you in the best mental, and physical shape you could be in? If not, what can you do to change? Taking a moment to pause, and think about the condition of your body mind and soul, will help you stay balanced and healthy in all areas. Taking a holistic approach means understanding what’s out of balance in your life.

Step 4: Get into a routine.
Successful people who live healthy lives have learned to incorporate some sort of routine in their day. That’s because consistent healthy patterns on a daily basis, create the foundation for real growth and success. Add physical and mental fitness to your schedule. Focus on your physical routine (exercise) as well as your mental routine (reading a positive book, affirmations, or studying something that will expand your mind).

Step 5: Re-wire your mind.
Program your brain for healthy thoughts! Listen to positive music, ipod downloads, and CD’s in the car. Your thoughts drive your future, and if you tend to process things negatively, be self-aware enough to turn that around. Top athletes like Tiger Woods, are masters of their minds, focusing on positive thoughts, concentration, and mental management. Having a healthy and positive outlook is essential for your best life.

Getting Mentally Fit and Physically Fit
In life, your mental and physical routines should be intertwined. One thing affects the other, and even if you’re physically fit on the outside, it’s important to be just as physically fit on the inside. Ask yourself today, does your inside, match your outside?The benefits of a regular fitness program are increased muscle mass, toned legs, buttocks, arms, abs, and healthier looking skin. But the benefits of paying attention to your emotional and intellectual state of mind are a healthier outlook on life, and more positive relationships in life, and also in business. When I coach someone in fitness, I always emphasize the power of routines, and a holistic mind, body approach.
Are you satisfied with your progress in all quadrants of your life — physical, spiritual, emotional and financial? If not, what’s holding you back? Find your compass, and get in sync. Take steps that will lead you to live the life of your dreams.

Rosie’s Five Tips for catching Up to Your Internet Savvy Kids

Sandy — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 16:20:52 +0000

Feeling a little “behind” when it comes to the Internet? Is your sixth grade daughter also doubling as your personal tech support? Your kids may be of the Facebook generation but not to worry, you can still catch the train. Get on board now because the train is a fast moving one! Here are five tips to help you get started…

1. Get on Facebook even if your child is too young (less than 13 years old) to be on it. It is a communication site unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Besides reconnecting or “friending” others, it is a way to share pictures, communicate and have fun. Once reserved for college aged students, it is now expanding across generations. If you have a teenager, it is likely that they have a Facebook or some other type of social networking account. After you’ve established yourself:

Learn the lingo. A friend of mine couldn’t understand why his teenage daughter was so upset after she had been “tagged” on Facebook. Did someone catch her he wondered? He didn’t know what being “tagged” meant and it was only days later that he learned an unflattering picture of her had been identified and was seen by many.

Know the privacy settings. While nothing on Facebook is truly private, it is important to understand how the settings work. I keep my privacy settings high meaning only my friends (people I’ve approved) can view my information.

2. Know how to do a good Internet search. If your child is interested in learning about something or needs to do research for a school project, the Internet is often the first (and sometimes the only) stop. Learning how to do a good search can help get to the right sites quickly. Hint: using quotation marks and symbols are a must.

3. The movie screen has shrunk – to less than 3 inches on a web enabled device like an iphone or blackberry. YouTube has allowed anyone to be a movie maker. Movies of all kinds are constantly uploaded to YouTube. Easy to use recording devices have made uploading to YouTube fairly simple and straightforward. Take a spin on YouTube and see what your kids may be watching. Then, once you figure it out ask if they have a favorite channel or what they like to watch.

4. Communication has gone high tech. Sure, the best communication is still done face to face but other communication techniques are widely used. Standard phone calls and even email are being replaced by Internet video calling and text messaging. Many people use a tiny keypad to send text messages but if I’m at my computer, I’ll use that instead since it is free and not as tedious.

5. Find your music online. The days of buying a CD are winding down and chances are pretty high that your child doesn’t even consider buying a CD when they want to listen to music. Pandora is a hit with young and old – essentially a internet radio station you customize. iTunes is a favorite for many wishing to download music and makes a great gift for someone of the Facebook generation.

RESEARCH PROVES SUPER WHY! HELPS CHILDREN LEARN TO READ

Sandy — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 13:00:38 +0000

Two new studies on the highly rated, award-winning PBS KIDS series Super WHY! prove that children, especially those from low-income families, are learning core early literacy skills from the TV series and its educational support materials. The studies were funded by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) through a cooperative agreement from the U.S. Department of Education’s Ready to Learn Grant. The first study conducted by the Annenberg School for Communication, at the University of Pennsylvania, assessed the TV series’ abilities to help boost preschoolers’ early literacy skills ranging from knowledge of the alphabet to letter sounds and reading comprehension. The second study evaluated how children learn from the series content via Super WHY! five day reading camps where children were invited to take a hands-on approach to applying the Super Readers reading lessons into their daily lives.

The results suggest that viewing Super WHY! can indeed play a major role in the acquisition of early literacy abilities that lead to the development of reading success. “An impressive indicator of the power of Super WHY! is that meaningful changes in preschoolers’ early literacy skills were found with exposure to as few as two or three episodes,” said Dr. Linebarger.

Other findings include:

• Improved overall performance – The most prominent finding in this project was that preschool children who watched Super WHY! across an 8 week period performed significantly better on nearly all program specific measures and most of the standardized measures of early reading achievement when compared with those preschool children who watched an alternate program.
• High levels of engagement – Nearly all of the children (97 percent) who rated the show and its characters gave Super WHY! high marks, so not only are young viewers learning, but they also find the content entertaining and engaging. The series has ranked in the top five television programs among children ages 2-to-5 and has been number one among moms with young children.*

• Growth on targeted literacy skills – Over time, kids who watched Super WHY! showed significant gains on alphabet knowledge, phonological and phonemic awareness, symbolic and linguistic awareness, and comprehension. For example, Super WHY! viewers’ pre-test to post-test gain on tasks that measured phonological and phonemic awareness averaged 29 percent compared with an average gain of 13 percent for children in the control group.

• Improved pre-reading skills — Watching Super WHY! dramatically improved preschoolers’ letter and sound naming speeds, skills that are directly linked to conventional reading achievement. Children participating in the Super WHY! group were 24 percent faster at naming letters and 44 percent faster at naming sounds when compared to children in the control group.

For more information regarding Super Why! please visit: pbskids.org/superwhy.

BUGS BEGONE!

Jessica — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:00:20 +0000

BUGS! You don’t have to let these pests ruin your fun summer days and long warm nights. Simply stock up on Sunfeather Soap Company’s Bug Off!™ Collection…

Each Bug Off! product offers a safe, effective and DEET-free alternative to repelling insects. Using a special blend of all natural essential oils including Rosemary, Citronella, Geranium and Lemongrass, Bug Off! is safe to use on adults and children – and is safe for the environment. Each product is ideal for use during fishing, hunting, camping or any outdoor excursion.

The Bug Off! Collection includes:

• Bug Off! Wipes – these handy, refreshing herbal wipes effectively discourage biting insects from feasting on you and your little ones. Contains essential oils of Rosemary, Citronella, Geranium and Lemongrass. Apply to skin, avoiding eyes and other sensitive areas. SRP: $15.99.

• Bug Off! Soap & Shampoo Bar – this pleasant smelling soap and shampoo bar deters insects naturally. Leaves skin and hair not only soft and beautiful, but displeasing to feisty insects. SRP: $6.50.

• Bug Off! Spritzer – using an all natural essential oil formula, this spritzer offers lasting protection from mosquitoes, black flies and other biting insects. Shake well before using. SRP: $15.

• Bug Off! Organic Bug Rub – With moisturizing Shea Butter and a 100% essential oil blend of Citronella, Lemongrass, Rosemary and Geranium, Bug Rub fits perfectly in your pocket for whenever you want to combat bugs on the go. SRP: $10.

• Bug Off! Soy Candle – keep the nighttime fun going by simply lighting this 100% natural vegetable wax candle that contains an essential oil blend of Rosemary, Citronella and Geranium. SRP: $12.

• Bug Off! Bug Bite Soother – ouch! Soothe itch and irritation with the cooling relief and antiseptic properties of camphor, tea tree and peppermint. SRP: $6.

For more information or to make a purchase, please visit www.sunfeather.com.