Shannons View from Here

Monsters University - It All Began Here ~ New Clip To Share

2013-05-24T10:49:00.002-07:00

Anyone excited as we are about this movie?? The girls and I are anxiously awaiting the release of Monsters University - It All Began Here. I can hardly wait for June 21st! I really hope it comes to our local drive-in so that the kids can enjoy their movie (oh I will enjoy it too!) then they will sleep for the second show. That could totally happen!

Synopsis of Monsters University - It All Began Here

Ever since college-bound Mike Wazowski (voice of Billy Crystal) was a little monster, he has dreamed of becoming a Scarer—and he knows better than anyone that the best Scarers come from Monsters University (MU). But during his first semester at MU, Mike’s plans are derailed when he crosses paths with hotshot James P. Sullivan, “Sulley” (voice of John Goodman), a natural-born Scarer. The pair’s out-of-control competitive spirit gets them both kicked out of the University’s elite Scare Program. To make matters worse, they realize they will have to work together, along with an odd bunch of misfit monsters, if they ever hope to make things right.

K9 Advantix ~ End Worries With One Drop ~ Giveaway

2013-05-24T06:14:00.000-07:00

Bayer Animal Health Infographic

I was lucky enough to have a chat with Jarod Miller celebrity pet expert earlier this month. We discussed ways to keep your dog safe from ticks and Lyme disease this summer. I am sharing this infographic with you in hopes it will help you know more about ticks and Lyme disease. Last year our dog Bella tested negative for Lyme. After being tested we discovered a tick on her and quickly removed it. Well this years test for Lyme came back positive. We are now on an aggressive antibiotic regimen in hopes of getting it before it spreads to her kidneys. I am hopeful.

BAYER K9 ADVANTIX® – END WORRIES WITH ONE DROP

Bayer innovation has developed one product specifically for dogs to protect against all external parasites, including ticks. Bayer K9 Advantix provides dog owners with:
o Waterproof topical protection against ticks and fleas through a combination of two active
ingredients, imidacloprid and permethrin
o Attacks parasites’ nerve cells, paralyzing and killing themon contact
o A solution that kills ticks, including Deer ticks (vector of Lyme disease), American dog ticks (vector of Rocky Mountain spotted fever), Brown dog ticks (vector of Ehrlichiosis) and Lone Star ticks (vector of Ehrlichiosis) for up to four weeks with each application
o A solution that kills fleas on dogs within 24 hours and continues to protect for a month

Fast, convenient, and effective, K9 Advantix allows dogs to enjoy worry-free outdoor fun.

Enter to win K9 Advantix to keep your pet safe this summer. Open to Canada only.

Entry -Form

Renting a Car in Florida

2013-05-23T10:33:00.000-07:00

There are many reasons as to why a person may choose to rent a car. From family vacations to business trips, no matter the reason, there are definitely advantages gained when renting a car.

Some people live in large metropolitan areas, meaning they do not necessarily need a vehicle to travel to and from local places, including restaurants, to visit friends and family and places of employment. So, what does a person do when they need to go on a long trip and are in need of a vehicle? Or, what is a person to do when his or her car breaks down? Well, it can be of the utmost benefit to rent a car.

Renting a car allows a person to avoid putting wear and tear on their own car. Also, since most cars rented through Car Rental FLL agencies are new models, they tend to get very good gas mileage, which is very beneficial when taking long trips.

Another great reason to rent a car is because if it breaks down, a person won't have to worry about paying for the repair expenses. Instead, a new vehicle can be rented. For more info relating to Car Rental FLL, click here.

Review & Giveaway Parker Urban Premium Ebony Finish Pen Perfect for Father's Day Gift

2013-05-23T06:49:00.000-07:00

PARKER has been creating pens that redefine writing for 125 years. When the PARKER Urban pen arrived for us to review, my husband quickly claimed it as his own and I barely was able to get a picture of it. I have not seen it since. When I asked him what he thought of the pen, he related this story to me.

Hubs works on a busy construction site as the lead Superintendent. While showing his visiting boss around the site hubs assistant, who is an engineering student, needed a pen and made a grab for hubs new PARKER Urban pen. Hubs instinctively slapped the assistants hand and said "Not that pen!". The assistant looked stunned as well as the visiting boss. Hubs' boss took the pen and told the assistant, "When you graduate from Engineering and get your first big job, you too can have a beauty of a pen like this. THEN you will understand." True story.

Parker Urban Pen makes the perfect gift.

Needless to say my husband loves this pen. The mix of style and ergonomics is a perfect balance. With Father's Day just around the corner this pen would make a prefect gift. This pen would also make a great gift for any upcoming graduates. Where image is everything and quality is key, the Urban is an outstanding gift for men leading a modern life.

"The Parker Urban, along with many other models of Parker pens, is available at fine writing specialty stores throughout Canada and at Reids, Basics, Wallacks, Novexco, Boutique Du Stylo, Le Parchemin, and Duly Noted. Prices range from $32 to $100, depending on the model of choice."

For more information, visit www.parkerpen.com.

Great news! I have a PARKER Urban pen for one of you to WIN! Open to Canada only.

Good luck!

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Iams SO GOOD! Doggie Jam Giveaway and Video! #IAMSSoGood

2013-05-22T07:24:00.000-07:00

Have you heard about the Iams SO GOOD! Doggie Jam happening at Echo Beach in Toronto? It is an outdoor concert that is doggie friendly. You and your pooch can come out and enjoy some great classical music performed by a 42 piece orchestra. The orchestra will be performing music created specifically for canine hearing. The Iams SO GOOD! Doggie Jam is a one of a kind event that is guaranteed fun for everyone in your family!

Event details:
When:
Saturday, June 8, 2013
4:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Where:
Echo Beach
999 Lakeshore Blvd. West
Toronto, Ontario, M6K 3L3

Tickets for the Iams SO GOOD! Doggie Jam are available through Ticketmaster.

Social Media Links:
Visit Iams on Facebook: www.facebook.com/iams
Follow Iams on Twitter: @Iams

Great news. I have a prize pack to give away to one lucky winner!

All you have to do is comment below letting me know what you thought of the video. One winner will be chosen June 3rd and emailed (so make sure I get your email address!). Open to Canadian residents.

The winner will recieve the following prize pack valued at over $60!

Family pack of four tickets to the Iams SO GOOD! Doggie Jam in Toronto
Two product vouchers to try the new Iams SO GOOD! dog food

Good luck!

Artsy Play Wednesday 05/22 Garden Marker Kid Friendly Craft

2013-05-22T03:00:00.001-07:00

Hosted by:

Capri + 3

Multi-Testing Mommy

Shannon’s View From Here

Baby Giveaways Galore

Welcome to this new weekly feature on Shannon's View from Here! This is going to be co-hosted by myself and three great new blogger friends of mine. Every Wednesday we will highlight all of your lovely crafts that you have been doing with your children. Each Wednesday one of use four bloggers will highlight one of our own artsy play craft that you can enjoy with your kiddos. I look forward to seeing what you are all up to!

This weeks project is by yours truly! The featured Artsy Play Wednesday craft is a DIY Garden Marker!

Enjoy the time spent at play with your children and art. Don't forget to link up!

"

"

If you are linking up today, we would love it if you could copy the following code below onto your linked up post:

Check out our Pinterest Board where we will be listing all of your amazing ideas.

DIY Garden Marker Kid Friendly Craft

2013-05-22T03:00:00.000-07:00

I love this craft for two reasons. The first reason is because it uses items I already have around the house and the second reason is because it teaches the kids how to reuse an item.

Garden Marker Made from Pop Bottles

You will need:

Pop Bottles
Skewers
Corrugated cardboard
Paint
Glue

First cut off the bottom of the pop bottle.

Paint the inside of the cut off bottom.

Cut a small circle out of the corrugated cardboard.

Push the skewer into to cardboard.

Glue the cardboard to the bottom of the cut off pop bottle.

Place in your garden and enjoy.

I found this craft in my kids favorite book called "Outdoor Crafts". It has kept my kids busy for hours. The book suggests reusing a pizza base for outdoor use as it is waterproof. I am using mine indoors so I opted for what I already had.

Disney Juniors Doc McStuffins: Time For Your Checkup DVD Review & Giveaway

2013-05-21T10:38:00.001-07:00

2012's #1 cable TV series in Kids 2-5, "Doc McStuffins" tells the story of a nurturing six-year-old girl who heals stuffed animals and broken toys out of her backyard playhouse clinic. Assisting Doc at the clinic are her trusty team of lovable stuffed animals including: Stuffy, an overly proud dragon; Lambie, her cuddly best friend lamb; Hallie, a jolly and caring hippo nurse; and Chilly, a snowman who spends a lot of time getting check-ups at the clinic. Whether it's a case of loose stitching, low batteries or a blow-up toy who has sprung a leak, Doc and her pals are always there to lend a helping hand, while imparting to young viewers the importance of taking care of oneself and others.

My kindergartner LOVES Doc McStuffins. I can now recite this whole DVD... by heart... for real. That is okay though. I like Doc McStuffins too. When my daughter first watched this DVD she did not move or say a word. This is proof that this is her new favorite DVD. There were a few giggles too. My daughter has watched this DVD numerous times and loves it more and more.

Here are some fun activities to share with your little one. Help Doc diagnose her patients with a matching game, see what's hidden in the stars by connecting the dots, build your own playhouse then kick back with some coloring sheets featuring Doc and her friends!

Enter to win a copy of Disney Juniors Doc McStuffins: Time For Your Checkup DVD of your very own! Good luck!

Entry -Form

Lady Speed Stick Don't Sweat it! Handle it! #DontSweatIt Coupon & Giveaway

2013-05-20T06:14:00.004-07:00

Lady Speed Stick Power boasts "24-hour non-stop wetness and odour protection" and I was happy to test that claim. I was sent some Lady Speed Stick to try out for myself. Luckily, I did not encounter any commercial worthy sweat inducing awkward moments but I was surprised at how much I liked the Lady Speed Stick Power Fresh Fusion Gel. It has been a long time since I have bought any type of gel antipersperant. I remember that I was not a fan of gel antipersperant from the last time I bought it. I *think* the last time I bought gel antipersperant was close to 20 years ago and I am happy to say that this gel is nothing like that gel! I can say that Lady Speed Stick PowerTM Fresh Fusion Gel did not let me down and lasts for the full 24 hours. I am happy to report that I did stay dry throughout my trial.

This is the first of the two samples I tried. It is closest to my regular Speed Stick that I normally use. The Lady Speed Stick Power comes in four great scents including Cool Breeze, Powder Burst, Satin Pear and Fresh Fusion Gel. I really liked the Cool Breeze scent. Another great thing about both of these antipersperants is that it went on, and remained, invisible. It is the time of year for cute little tops and I do not want to have any white lines on my tank tops.

Limited time Lady Speed Stick Coupon Available

You will want to print off this great Lady Speed Stick coupon before you go shopping. The coupon will save you $2.00 OFF when you purchase ANY TWO (2) Lady Speed Stick* or Speed Stick* Power™ antiperspirants 45 g - 85 g. Hurry the coupon will expire on May 25,2013.

Have you had a moment that has tested your antipersperant? How about a job interview, first date or a big exam? There are some great commercials from Lady Speed Stick that focus on just that and are quite funny and cute. Here is a fun commercial showing an example of how Lady Speed Stick helped one woman stay cool in an awkward situation.

There is a also great giveaway that you can enter to win 1 of 6 Lady Speed Stick gift basket!

The Don't Sweat it! Handle It! basket includes the following:

Lady Speed Stick Fruity Melon 45g
Lady Speed Stick Stainguard Daringly Fresh 65g
Lady Speed Stick Power Cool Breeze 45g
Men Speed Stick Power Fresh 14g
Men Speed Stick Irish Spring Original Deodarant 92g

Contest is open to Canadian residents only.

Good luck!

Tell me... what makes you sweat?
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post by Colgate. As always, all opinions are my own.

Chocolate Philly Perfect for Breakfast in Bed #PhillyChocolate

2013-05-17T06:09:00.000-07:00

I love chocolate. I love cream cheese. When I first saw the new Philadelphia Chocolate, I stopped in my tracks, and the ideas started flowing. Of course my first thought was how this will make chocolate cheesecake making SO much easier, but then my mind started thinking of other chocolate Philly filled ideas. My youngest daughters loves the strawberry Philly on her bagels so the chocolate Philly would be considered a divine treat! She will not know that there is the same dairy goodness as original Philly. Then I thought about one of our favorite quick snack and breakfast ideas. Rolled french toast! So off I went to the kitchen.

Scroll down for recipe

Have you noticed Chocolate Philly’s facebook Breakfast in Bed “Likes” Challenge? You can find out more about this fun challenge on Philadelphia Cream Cheese's facebook page . Make sure you like Philly on facebook because that is where you will find out all about a limited time coupon that will be available starting May 21,2013. You will want to keep your eye out for that one.

This will be my request for breakfast in bed.

Roll Up French Bread with Lots of Flavours

Cream Cheese
Sun-Maid Raisin Cinnamon Swirl Bread Slices
Sliced Fruit (optional)

Melted Butter
Sugar and Cinnamon

First you will want to roll out the slices of Sun-Maid Raisin Cinnamon Swirl Bread and cut off the crusts.

Next you will spread cream cheese over the entire piece of bread. I had 3 kinds of cream cheese including regular, strawberry and chocolate flavoured. You can prepare them with just the cream cheese or add some fruit that is sliced thinly on the edge only. Another variation is to use some jam, I really liked it with strawberry jam. Great for those mornings that you do not have fresh fruit on hand.

Yummy with strawberries rolled in too!

Roll the bread up starting with the edge that has the fruit or jam on it.

Spread some of the melted butter on the rolled french bread. Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon. I just eyeballed this part because some family members like more cinnamon than others.

Bake at 400' for 10 minutes. Enjoy!

Disney Junior Mickey Mouse Clubhouse ~ Quest for the Crystal Mickey Review and Giveaway

2013-05-15T16:35:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to receive a copy of Disney Junior's latest release Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: Quest for the Crystal Mickey to review. The DVD is set to be released on May 21st, 2013 and this is one you will want to pick up!

Synopsis of Disney Junior Mickey Mouse Clubhouse ~ Quest for the Crystal Mickey:

Grab your hat, buckle your seat belt, and get ready to embark on a thrilling "Quest For The Crystal Mickey"! There's no time to lose after greedy Plunderin' Pete snatches the legendary Crystal Mickey statue from the Clubhouse. Without this sparkly statue's magic, the Clubhouse will disappear forever! Can the world's most extraordinary hero, Mickey, get the magical statue back in time? Only with your help... and the right Mouseketools can Mickey journey across the Sandy Desert, brave the Rushing River and make his way through the Hidden Jungle. But watch out for Pete's trickiest traps! Packed with over two hours of laughter and surprises - including four additional episodes - this exciting, high-stakes-adventure is your ticket to nonstop fun.

If your kids are anything like mine, they play the same movies over and over and over again. Right? Well this is one I secretly hope they pick to take with us on road trips. I do not mind listening in on these episodes. Boasting over two hours of laughter and surprises the DVD definitely delivers that and more. So keep and eye out for it in stores later this month. My kids give it two very enthusiastic thumbs up!

To get you ready for the great adventures, here are some fun printables that include Spring Bingo, make your way through the Crystal Maze to find treasure, color in your favorite clubhouse characters then create your very own Crystal Mickey with a special folding craft.

Enjoy the activities and good luck in the giveaway!

Entry -Form

Win 4 Tickets to the #Ottawa International Children's Festival @OttawaKidsFest

2013-05-15T15:38:00.001-07:00

Welcome to the

Ottawa International Children's Festival

Giveaway!

The Ottawa Mommy Club is please to host the Ottawa International Children's Festival Giveaway with the help of our co-hosts: Canadian Blog House, Shannon's View from Here, Journeys of the Zoo and Tales of Mommyhood!

Enter to win 4 tickets to

The Ottawa International Children's Festival

"Where The Wild Things Are"

on Thursday, May 30 @ 7:00 p.m

This is one event that I love taking my school age kids to. Yes we play hookey to attend but that is okay once in a while. I love exposing the kids to new and exciting things and the Ottawa International Children's Festival fits the bill perfectly!

The Ottawa International Children’s Festival (OICF), the largest children’s festival in Ontario, is gearing up to celebrate its 28th year in the Capital, May 28-June 2, 2013 at Lebreton Flats Park and Canadian War Museum sites.

Each year the OICF proudly presents some of the finest visual and performance arts programming for young audiences. Thousands of area children, families and businesses come together to celebrate and take part in live performing arts that serves to surround young people with excellence in the arts community and to promote creativity, boundless imaginations and individual expression in children of all ages.

This year, the Festival proudly presents the finest visual and performance arts programming for young audiences. Counties Shaped Like Stars, by Ottawa’s Mi Casa Theatre, is making its debut at The Ottawa Children’s Festival with a whimsical theatrical productionfeaturing characters Gwendolyn Magnificent and Bartholomew Spectacular, as told through a tin-can telephone. The show has received race reviews and five-star designations from audience members and critics alike, performing across Canada and as far south as New Mexico.

The programming schedule for this show is as follows :

* Wednesday, May 29 @ 9 :30 am – Atelier C&D Canadian War Museum (English)
* Thursday, May 30 @ 10 :00 am – Atelier C&D Canadian War Museum (English)
* Friday, May 31 @ 9 :30 am and 12 :30 pm – Atelier C&D Canadian War Museum (English)
* Saturday, June 1 @ 1 :00 pm – Atelier C&D Canadian War Museum (English)
* Sunday, June 2 @ 10 :00 am – Atelier C&D Canadian War Museum (English)

The high-energy, Quebec-based Evolution of BBoying by Ottawa’s Mi Casa Theatre, featuring local choreographer/dancer Yvon ‘Crazy Smooth’ Soglo, explores street dance tradition in a modern performance setting. This show brings together 10 of Canada’s most talented dancers and performersin a piece that evokes the essential nature of street dance.

The programming schedule for this show is as follows :

* Wednesday, May 29 @ 1 :00 pm - Tent 2 LeBreton Flats Park (Bilingual)
* Thursday, May 30 @ 9 :15 am and 11 :00 am - Tent 2 LeBreton Flats Park (Bilingual)
* Friday, May 31 @ 1 :00 pm and 7 :00 pm - Tent 2 LeBreton Flats Park (Bilingual)
* Saturday, June 1 @ 9 :30 am and 12 :00 pm – Tent 2 LeBreton Flats Park (Bilingual)
* Sunday, June 2 @ 12 :30 pm and 3 :30 pm - Tent 2 LeBreton Flats Park (Bilingual)

Denmark’s A Sonatina, by Gruppe 38 Europe’s oldest artistic creative, is a hysterical theatrical version of Little Red Riding Hood, featuring an un-cooperative live chicken and a newly laid egg. Highly original and tremendously imaginative, this performance is sure to be an audience favourite.

The programming schedule for this show is as follows :

* Wednesday, May 29 @ 9 :30 am and 12 :00 pm - Barney Danson Theatre – War Museum (English)
* Friday, May 31 @ 10 :00 am, 12 :30 pm and 7 :00 pm - Barney Danson Theatre – War Museum (English)
* Saturday, June 1 @ 10 :00 am and 12 :00 pm - Barney Danson Theatre – War Museum (English)
* Sunday, June 2 @ 10 :00 am - Barney Danson Theatre – War Museum (English)

The award-winning adaptation of Maurice Sendak’s Where The Wild Things Are is back by popular demand. It is a whimsical, joyful piece of participatory theatre that will delight one and all. Kim Selody brings our favourite characters to life in this Dora-nominated production. Get your tickets soon, this one sells out fast!

The programming schedule for this show is as follows :
* Thursday, May 30 @ 9 :30 am, 12 :30 pm and 7 :00 pm – Barney Danson Theatre – War Museum (English)
* Saturday, June 1 @ 2 :30 pm - Barney Danson Theatre – War Museum (English)
* Sunday, June 2 @ 12 :30 pm and 3 :00 pm - Barney Danson Theatre – War Museum (English)

Ghosts and Ladders, featuring acrobats and musicians combining music, movement and poetry. This show originating from Quebec, has audience members transported to an imaginative, engrossing world that won’t soon be forgotten.

The programming schedule for this show is as follows :

* Saturday, June 1 @ 1 :00 pm – Tent 1 LeBreton Flats Park (English)
* Sunday, June 2 @ 11 :00 am and 2 :15 pm - Tent 1 LeBreton Flats Park (English)

Please refer to the Festival’s activities schedule for more activities.

Tickets for the Festival are $12.50 per person, or you can choose your three favourite shows by purchasing a 3-Show Package (any 3 shows) for $30.00 per person. Tickets can be purchased through the festival office by calling 613-241-0999 , by visiting the office at 294 Albert Street, Suite 602, Ottawa (Mon-Fri, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm), through the Festival website or on-site at Lebreton Flats Park, between May 28 and June 2. These shows usually sell out, so please call early to avoid disappointment! For more information about the schedule or ticket information please visit the website at www.ottawachildrensfestival.ca or call (613) 241-0999 .

You can follow them on Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest!

Contest is open to 18 + Canadian Residents only. You have 48 hours to reply by email once you are notified as the winner. If you don't, we will draw another entry. Prize may not be substitute. Contest ends May 26th at 11:59pm.

Win 4 tickets to

The Ottawa International Children's Festival

Win 4 tickets to

The Ottawa International Children's Festival

Artsy Play Wednesday 05/15 DIY Paint Chip Boomarks

2013-05-15T08:38:00.001-07:00

Hosted by:

Capri + 3

Multi-Testing Mommy

Shannon’s View From Here

Baby Giveaways Galore

Welcome to this new weekly feature on Shannon's View from Here! This is going to be co-hosted by myself and three great new blogger friends of mine. Every Wednesday we will highlight all of your lovely crafts that you have been doing with your children. Each Wednesday one of use four bloggers will highlight one of our own artsy play craft that you can enjoy with your kiddos. I look forward to seeing what you are all up to!

This weeks project is by Amanda from Multi Testing Mommy! The featured Artsy Play Wednesday craft is a Paint Chip Bookmark!

Enjoy the time spent at play with your children and art. Don't forget to link up!

If you are linking up today, we would love it if you could copy the following code below onto your linked up post:

Check out our Pinterest Board where we will be listing all of your amazing ideas.

Apple Raisin Charlotte #SunMaidRecipe

2013-05-15T07:30:00.001-07:00

Feeling like it is fall weather I was inspired to keep the apple theme going. I am very ready for summer weather to arrive here in the Ottawa Valley. In the meantime I will continue to enjoy baking and creating with apples and Sun-Maid Raisin Cinnamon Swirl Bread!

This is a submission for the "Sun-Maid Raisin Canadian Family Recipe Contest". I am hoping to win a Sun-Maid catered brunch for 10 just in time for Father's Day OR a years supply of Sun-Maid Raisin Cinnamon Swirl Bread! Yum!

Apple Charlotte

4 Apples peeled cored and sliced thinly
1/2 Lemon Juiced and
1/2 Lemon Zest
1 tsp Cinnamon
1 tsp Vanilla

6 TBSP Butter
6 Sun-Maid Raisin Cinnamon Swirl Bread Slices

1 Egg white
1/8 Cup Sugar

Preheat oven to 375'

Peel and core the four apples. Slice thinly so they will cook evenly. Zest and juice the 1/2 lemon. Add apples, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla and cinnamon in a bowl and mix well so that the apples are well coated.

Cook on medium heat in skillet until apples break down, can take up to 15 minutes. Once the apples are broken down add 1/8 Cup of Sugar (adjust to taste depending on tartness of apples) and 2 Tablespoons of butter. Cook until mixture thickens and sugar is Incorporated, about 20 minutes.

Melt 4 Tablespoons of butter. Cut the 6 Sun-Maid Raisin Cinnamon Swirl Bread Slices in half and roll out with a rolling pin. Melt the remainder of the butter, coat each slice of bread with the melted butter. Starting at the bottom of a 1 Litre baking dish (6x6) place 4 of the 1/2 slices of bread to cover the bottom, sprinkle with sugar , spread 1/2 of the apple mixture on top of the bread and repeat until top is the last of the bread.

Whisk together the sugar an egg white and pour over the top of the dish. Bake until browned, about 25 minutes. Best served warm and with whip cream or ice cream.

(variation)

I did the same but in a ramekin. I paced the bread slices in the ramekin and let it overhang. After the layers were made I pulled the remaining bread over the filling. I also put some Sun-Maid raisins in the apple mix.

I was able to place the ramekin upside down on a plate and with little effort the Charlotte came out. Very cute for individual servings.

Enjoy!

Stuffed Acorn Squash Side Dish #SunmaidRecipe

2013-05-14T13:23:00.000-07:00

The weather here in the Ottawa Valley has turned back to feeling like fall. My cooking has followed the trend as well.

I am participating in a challenge put out by SUN-MAID and it is called the "Canadian Family Recipe Contest". The challenge is to create a dish using delicious Sun-Maid Raisin Cinnamon Swirl Bread. My main challenge was getting the yummy bread in the house and keeping it a secret from my family. I mean it is the perfect after school or late night snack toasted with a little butter. Not to worry family, I do have a little left over for you to feast on.

I love this recipe idea! I used an idea from my grandmother and mixed it up with a recent Internet search. I think this is a great side for pork chops or ham. I love that it is a showy side dish with minimal effort. I hope you enjoy it. It also has the added bonus of making your house smell extra yummy.

This is my entry for this challenge!

Shannon's Stuffed Acorn Squash
2 servings

1 Acorn Squash
2 Granny Smith Apples peeled, cored and cubed
4 Sun-Maid Raisin Cinnamon Swirl Bread pieces, cubed
(note: I was going to suggest dry or stale Sun-Maid Raisin Cinnamon Swirl Bread but that never happens in my house)
3 TBSP Brown Sugar (Depending on sweetness of apples)
3 TBSP Melted Butter
1/2 tsp Cinnamon

Preheat oven to 375'

Slice acorn squash in half lengthwise and clean out the seeds. Fill a casserole dish with boiling water and add squash cut side down. Bake for 25 minutes.

Cube the apples and bread about the same size and place in a bowl. Add melted butter, brown sugar and cinnamon making sure to coat everything evenly.

When the acorn squash has baked for 25 minutes remove from oven and flip them over in the casserole dish (leaving the remaining water in the dish). Stuff with apple and bread mixture. Return to oven and bake an additional 25 minutes.

Allow to cool and serve with ham, pork chops or pork roast.

A showy side dish with little effort. My favorite!

Win a Free Week of Summer Camp & iPad Mini

2013-05-14T11:43:00.001-07:00

Don't miss out on this great contest that Inter-Varsity Camp is hosting! You could win a week of camp for your child FREE! The contest is open to Canadians (excluding Quebec) and runs until June 28, 2013.

BONUS 15% OFF coupon is yours to use towards the summer of 2013 camping season once you have entered and shared the contest. Make sure to read the rules about when and how you can use the coupon.

ENTER TO WIN A FREE WEEK AT CAMP NOW!

About Inter-Varsity Camps:

The Inter-Varsity camps have been in Canada for more than 80 years. You can be confident that your child will learn and grow while at camp. With dozens of fun and exciting activities like sailing, swimming, horseback riding, and rock climbing, and a daily schedule purposefully designed to provide your child with new skills, opportunities, and experiences, you can be confident that your child will learn, grow, and develop through their time at Inter-Varsity camps.

There are camps in British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Alberta and Ontario. There is truly something for everyone! Activities range from Canoeing/Kyacking to Ropes course/climbing wall to Beach combing/Trail blazing. Swimming, campfires and new and old friendships. What is there not to love about attending summer camp?

Good luck!

I See Me "My Very Own Fairy Tale Storybook" Book Review and Giveaway

2013-05-10T12:02:00.001-07:00

The names my husband and I picked out for our daughters are quite unique. We did not name them Apple or Moon Unit (real names celebrities used!) but their names are hard to find on personalized items. No key chains, water bottles or necklaces will have their names. We have to rely of ordering personalized items and I See Me is the perfect solution.

I See Me has books, placemats, puzzles, coloring books and Tshirts that can be personalized with any name including Apple and Moon Unit. The good people at I See Me sent me a `My Very Own Fairytale Storybook` and a `My Very Own Fairytale Personalized Placemat` with my youngest daughters name. They shipped very fast! It is always exciting when there is a package in the mail and it causes the inevitable "Is it for me mom?". When I said "Yes it is for you!" the cheers broke out.

I See Me Personalized "My Very Own Fairy Tale Storybook"

I was quite pleased with the quality of this book. We are very picky about what books we consider 'forever books' in our house. I am happy to say that "My Very Own Fairy Tale Storybook" has passed the test. The story itself is a perfect tale for my 6 year old. I love the fact that my 10 year old is able to read it to her. I have caught them numerous time cuddled up together reading the story.

The story is about the fairies choosing their new princess. All the fairies gather and describe the kind of princess they want to find. All the fairies descriptions spell out your child's name. For the letter A the fairie says "I have a good friend who is really Awesome". All the descriptions spell out the new princesses first and last name. My daughter was quite pleased to find out that SHE had been chosen as the new princess of the fairies. I See Me tops it off with a dedication on the inside title page. Your name and greeting will be printed on the book to forever mark any special occasion.

I See Me "My Very Own Fairy Tale Personalized Placemat"

Printed in the U.S.A this sturdy placemat has all the fairies that my daughter now reigns over as their princess. Colorful and eye catching this is the perfect accompaniment to the book or a stand alone gift. Easy to clean with a damp cloth.

I am delighted with both of these items. I would love to give these as a gift for birthdays, Christmas, baptisms etc. Perfect for the babies that live far away but I still want to spoil. I would recommend I See Me with no problem!

I have a promo code to share! Use the FAIRY for 15% off My Very Own Fairy Tale book, coloring book and placemat. Expires 5/31.

Conect with I See Me Books
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ISeeMeBooks
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/ISeeMe_Maia
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/iseemebooks/
Instagram: ISeeMe_Maia
To Buy: Website My Very Own Fairytale

Make sure you check out the contest "Pin Around The World" that I See Me is running HERE. You could win a $250 American Express Gift Card and 10 winners will receive a free personalized copy of the new I See Me! MY VERY OWN WORLD ADVENTURE storybook!

The people at I See M is graciously going to set one of my readers up with a personalized copy of My Very Own Fairy Tale Storybook. Good luck!

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ABC Friday Photo ~ R is for

2013-05-10T06:40:00.000-07:00

Randy's Donut Los Angeles

Took this picture out of the window of our rental car. We were headed back to LAX to catch our flight.

Come link up your "R" pictures over at Mom vs the Boys and Maple Leaf Mommy.

Artsy Play Wednesday 05/08 Paper Flowers for Mother's Day

2013-05-08T07:33:00.003-07:00

Hosted by:

Capri + 3

Multi-Testing Mommy

Shannon’s View From Here

Baby Giveaways Galore

Welcome to this new weekly feature on Shannon's View from Here! This is going to be co-hosted by myself and three great new blogger friends of mine. Every Wednesday we will highlight all of your lovely crafts that you have been doing with your children. Each Wednesday one of use four bloggers will highlight one of our own artsy play craft that you can enjoy with your kiddos. I look forward to seeing what you are all up to!

This weeks project is by Theresa from Capri + 3! The featured Artsy Play Wednesday craft is Paper Flowers for Mother's Day!

Enjoy the time spent at play with your children and art. Don't forget to link up!

If you are linking up today, we would love it if you could copy the following code below onto your linked up post:

Check out our Pinterest Board where we will be listing all of your amazing ideas.

{WW} Finally a True Sign Of Spring!

2013-05-08T06:15:00.001-07:00

Celebrity Pet Expert Jarod Miller on Lyme Disease

2013-05-07T16:50:00.000-07:00

Bella (on the right) visiting her friend Jolene

Last week we found out that our family pet Bella has Lyme disease. Last year Bella tested negative so we were shocked. Lyme disease was not even on the radar for us. Lyme disease should have been though, as we live in an "endemic region: most dogs at risk and the threat is near-constant and pervasive". The Lyme disease was caught early enough to treat with antibiotics and hopefully it has not reached her kidneys. There is so much that I have learned in the last week that I wish I had known a long time ago.

Jarod Miller

I had a chat today with celebrity pet expert Jarod Miller who has been on Rachel Ray, Jay Leno, Conan O'Brien among many other shows. May is Lyme disease awareness month and Jarod wants to spread awareness about ticks and Lyme disease. May is a perfect time of year to remind pet owners on how to keep their pets safe. The warmer weather means that our dogs are coming in to contact with ticks more often. Ticks inhabit unmaintained land such as fields with long grass and forests. Ticks spread a bacteria that causes Lyme disease to humans and dogs through a bite. "Lyme disease is easier to prevent than treat." says Jarod.

Ways to reduce the risk to your dog from ticks and Lyme disease:

Preventative systems such as K9 Advantix (please consult your veterinarian)
When your dog comes in from outdoors do a quick pat down checking for ticks (don't forget to check yourself!)
Keep your lawn maintained as ticks love long grass

The Bayer national survey found the following on dogs, ticks and Lyme disease:

7/10 people were more concerned about their pets health than their own
1/5 people have found a tick on their pet
1/4 people have heard little or nothing about Lyme disease
1/10 people are not aware that ticks spread Lyme disease
1/4 people are not aware that they can get Lyme disease just like their pets

More summer pet care advice:

Asked what was the number one mistake that people make with their pets in the summer heat Jarod said, "Do not leave your dogs in your car. If you are in the situation to have to leave your dog in the car, it's not worth bringing your dog. Do not bring your dogs to the grocery store!"

Keep your dog well hydrated. If you are out for a walk make sure you have water for your pet. How do you know if your dog is overheated or dehydrated? The more he is panting the more overheated he is and that is the sign that your pet needs water. Placing a cold compress on the pads of your dogs feet will also cool them down quickly.

Enjoy your summer and keep yourself and your canine companion safe.

More About Jarod Miller

Jarod is the host of Greatest American Dog, a reality show in search of the most talented dog in the country. The winner will be awarded $250,000.

Jarod Miller is an zoologist, naturalist, pet expert, television host and regular guest lecturer for zoos, universities and promotional events on captive management and wildlife conservations. He grew up in suburban Western New York where he spent most of his childhood outdoors, exploring the nature and visiting zoos around the area. He obtained his degree in Zoology from Oswego State University in New York, where he has published and presented a study on primate behavior and ecology within the scientific community. Jarod Miller is also a professional fellow on the American Zoo Association, an associate member of Sigma Xi Scientific Research Society, and a member of the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists.

Bani Bands Headbands ~ Review, Giveaway and Promo Code ~

2013-05-07T05:31:00.000-07:00

When our package of Bani Bands Adjustable Headbands arrived at our door the girls went nuts. My girls are always using headbands and I was hoping that these would be the ones that fit them both perfectly and stay put on their heads. They each chose a sparkly one and a designer one and quickly adjusted them to fit their little heads. My girls are 6 and 10 and were able to adjust the bands themselves. That makes me happy. When the girls are at school I sneak a Bani Band to wear. Not only do they look fabulous they also DO stay PUT! The Bani Bands are perfect for running, playing soccer, yoga or even to spruce up a bad hair day. My daughter lives in the green sparkly one and she gets comments on it every day. The different widths, color and styles mean there is truly a headband for everyone.

The quality is evident as soon as you pick up a Bani Band. The ribbon itself is sturdy and well made. The inside is a non-slip felt making the headband stay put. The adjustable clasp does not loosen, like some other bands I have, yet is easy to adjust. I am really impressed with the quality.

About Bani Bands

Bani Bands are handmade by home sewers living in the U.S. and China. You can "meet the maker" of most bands (newer stock only) by scanning the QR code on the headbands hangtag.
They do custom orders and will work with you to get the color, style and logo you want.
Fundraising program available. The perfect product to help you raise funds for your team. Get all the information HERE.
Excellent price point!
Makes a great gift! I have a few picked out for the Birthday parties that my daughters are invited to.
FREE SHIPPING for the whole month of May

Connect with Bani Bands

Buy online with Paypal, Visa & MasterCard

Find Bani Bands on facebook

Follow on twitter

PROMO CODE SHANNONSVIEW will get you 20% OFF Bani Bands (until July 15,2013) exclusively for Shannon's View from Here readers. Use the promocode with the free shipping offer to save even more! (Note that the promocode will only work on Bani Bands Canada Site)

The generous people at Bani Bands has supplied a Mom and Daughter pack of bands to be given away to one of my readers! Mom and Daughter package will include 4 headbands: One wide, one sequin, one soccer and one glitter. Good luck.

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National We Day Inspires Young in Ottawa to "Be the Change"

2013-05-06T16:22:00.002-07:00

My 10 year old daughter and I were invited by Telus to attend National We Day in Ottawa. We Day celebrates the youth movement for local and global change by bringing together thousands of youth, political figures, celebrities, musician and heroes. We Day is produced by Free the Children which was founded by brothers Marc and Craig Kielburger. Every person that took the stage had stories of great feats, inspiration or important causes. The day was filled with emotions and excitement that I still feel today.

My daughter had the chance to interview Free the Children co founder Craig Kielberger. Craig told her that he does not have a favorite We Day but that he does especially enjoy the new host city We Days. This was the first We Day in the Ottawa/Gatineau area. Craig said he is honored whenever one of HIS heroes speaks at We Day. They included Desmond Tutu and the Dalai Lama. My daughter surprised him by saying that she had learned about him in grade 2 and was honored to meet him.

Craig chatted easily with my DD who relayed all the information she gathered to her classmates. My daughter has already met with her principal to ask that her school participate by collecting pennies for We Create Change. Every bag of 2,500 pennies collected will supply safe water to a person for LIFE. I will keep you updated on their progress. I knew my daughter would feel the call to action but love that she is doing it immediately and on her own terms.

We Day was filled with inspirational, sometimes sad, high energy and memorable acts. I want to tell you about Molly Burke. Molly tells the story of when she was 14 and bullied by the cool girls in her class. Molly talks about feeling alone and lost, literally, in the woods where the cool girls left her to find her own way. Her story of being bullied resonated with many kids in the arena, the fact that she is blind shocked most of the crowd. You could literally hear the gasp when she called for her guide dog Gypsy.

Spencer West was welcomed on stage by a standing ovation. Spencer conquered Kilimanjaro with some of his friends despite having his legs amputated at the pelvis when he was five years old due to a genetic disorder. Spencer shared how he relied on his friends to help him to the top of the mountain. The big surprise to Spencer was that he ended up carrying his friends on the last part of the climb. His friends were affected by altitude sickness and Spencer was luckily unaffected by the sickness. He encouraged and pushed his friends to finish the climb. When asked if he would conquer Kilimanjaro again he answered with a resounding "NO!". Spencer said he would not change anything of those 7 days on the mountain but will not want to repeat it. Spencer sends the message to find opportunity in every challenge. On May 6, Spencer West faces another challenge, as he begins an epic 300-km water walk from Edmonton to Calgary to raise money for Free The Children’s Water Initiative, a year-long campaign to provide 100,000 people around the world with permanent sources of clean water. Redefining possible.

Martin Sheen passionately called on the young attendees to action for a better world. Martin's words “One heart with courage is a majority” has stayed with my daughter and I. Martin said the kids give him energy to continue and "While acting is what I do for a living, activism is what I do to stay alive.". His passion was evident and contagious.

Thank you to Liz at Telus for making us all comfortable and taking good care of us. A big thank you to our We Day volunteer, Allie, for making sure we were where we needed to be and on time. Here are some pictures I took at We Day with a BlackBerry Z10 (more on that later).

I Need a New Home Office #FamilyBiz

2013-05-06T06:28:00.003-07:00

: Jeremy Levine Design / Foter.com / CC BY

I love sharing! Here is my home office, where I can write in a relaxed state of mind while I get distracted by the wildlife at my window.....

KIDDING!

I can not believe I am going to share my ~~disaster zone~~ home office with you. I can explain... really. We moved last minute into a new rental home in the dead of winter. My office space quickly became over run with stuff. All of the stuff ends up in the office and on my desk. Mostly right now, in this picture anyway, all the items on my lil desk are mine. Except those fishing poles.

I tend to work at the dinning room table lately. It can be dangerous in my office... those fishing poles can take my eye out! I bet you can guess what room I am tackling first with spring cleaning. In my house, the one I own (another story for another time), I have a dedicated office space. Especially since I work from home. For now though, I am in a holding pattern until we settle back in to our home.

Do you have a home office? Are you brave enough to take a picture and link it up on Shasher's Life blog tour? If I can do it so can you!! I can't wait to see your space. Write a post about your home office, share some pictures then come link it up. Shasher's Life is giving away a $50 Paypal Cash Gift to one world wide participant! You have until May 18, 2013 to clean up your space and submit a picture.... but that wouldn't be any fun.

Chicken Soup for the Soul Parenthood

2013-05-06T04:24:00.002-07:00

Chicken Soup for the Soul has a new book out focusing on the joys of raising children of all ages. Chicken Soup for the Soul: Parenthood is the perfect book to include in a gift basket for Mothers Day, a baby shower or just because. As with all our Chicken Soup for the Soul books this copy will have a prominent spot in the cottage library. We love having these books close by when we are certain to have a quiet moment or two to enjoy them.

The stories in this edition cover everything from words kids say to treasured moments. Everyone will find stories that sound all too familiar. I found myself smiling and nodding as I read many of these stories. A great read to warm the heart and to sneak a couple of moments to yourself with your coffee.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Parenthood: 101 Heartwarming and Humorous Stories about the Joys of Raising Children

Purchase via Chicken Soup website
Release Date: Mar 12 2013 | Series: Chicken Soup for the Soul
Publisher: Simon and Schuster; Original edition (Mar 12 2013)
Language: English | ISBN-10: 1611599075 | ISBN-13: 978-1611599077
The 101 stories in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Parenthood will touch your heart, make you laugh, and remind you why there is no better job than being a parent! Parenting - it's a tough job, but also the best. Filled with anecdotes and advice from parents raising children of all ages, this book will uplift, inspire, and encourage you. Other parents, just like you, share their personal stories about all the joys, and the trials, of raising children