The Bluebird Patch (Happiness Blog)

Apps We Love: Tornado Warning & Alert App by American Red Cross

2013-05-23T18:10:00.003-07:00

Get your family and home ready for a tornado with the official Tornado App from the American Red Cross. The tornado warning app puts everything you need to know to prepare for a tornado – and all that comes with it – in the palm of your hand. With interactive quizzes and simple step-by-step advice it’s never been easier to be ready.

From your mobile phone, call "**REDCROSS" (**73327677) and we will send you a link to download the app to your phone or you can download them directly from the iTunes orGoogle Play app stores.

Features:

Simple step-by-step instructions to help you know what-to-do even if the cell towers and TVs are down. Prioritized actions for before, during, and after requires no mobile connectivity.
Audible siren that automatically goes off even if app is closed when NOAA issues a TORNADO WARNING helping to reduce the chance of sleeping through an actual warning.
Push notification sent when a WARNING expires – especially important if power goes out while you or your family are in your safe room.
Help distant friends and family in tornado alley with ability to receive tornado watch and warning alerts based on their location from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Red Cross location-based open shelters map for when you need it most.
Be ready should a tornado hit by learning how to assemble an emergency kit for your family in the event of power outage or evacuation.
Reduce your household’s stress and anxiety should a tornado hit by learning to make and practice an emergency plan.
Preloaded content means you have instant access to all safety information at anytime, even without reception or an Internet connection.
Interactive quizzes allow you to earn badges that you can share with your friends and show off your tornado knowledge.
Know how many tornadoes have occurred in your area.
Know the difference between a tornado warning and a tornado alert.
Learn how to deal with food and water impacted by floods and power outages.
Simply let friends/family know you’re safe with customizable “I’m Safe” notification sharable thru social media, text and email.
Let others know where you are with the Toolkit’s stobe light, flashlight and audible alert functions.

Boy Scouts Vote To Allow Openly Gay Youth

2013-05-23T15:29:00.001-07:00

Today, the Boy Scouts of America voted to end its ban on gay Scouts, which is a huge victory for gay youth. But gay Scout leaders – like former den leader Jennifer Tyrrell – are still banned from Scouting. It's time to keep up the pressure! GLAAD needs your help to make sure gay parents and adults are also able to participate.

The New York Times has published a comprehensive story about today's vote in the Boy Scouts, outlining the work that GLAAD has done, as well as hearing from leaders like Jennifer Tyrrell and Zach Wahls.

Glaad and other rights groups took up the cuse, enlisting celebrities like Madonna, who wore a Boy Scout uniform to an awards ceremony, and publicizing calls for change by corporate executives whose companies embrace gay and lesbian employees. Nearly two million people signed online petitions on Change.Org, calling on the Boy Scouts to end discrimination.

Speak out now!

Other Ways to Take Action

Sign the petition: Boy Scouts of America: Vote to end your ban on both gay youth and adult leaders

Jennifer Tyrrell, together with GLAAD and Scouts For Equality, is launching a new petition to urge the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) to completely lift its anti-gay ban on both youth members and adult employees and volunteers.

Sign the petition now.
Stand up for inclusive scouting on Facebook and Twitter

Tell your Facebook friends that you support an end to the ban on gay scouts and leaders:

I support equality in the Boy Scouts. End the ban on gay Scouts and leaders! http://glaad.org/scouts

Downtown Atlanta Attractions Deals We Love: World Of Coca-Cola Sixth Anniversary $6 General Admission Ticket Offer

2013-05-23T15:05:00.001-07:00

On Friday, May 24th only, the first 600 guests at our walk-up ticket windows will enjoy $6.00 General Admission tickets to the World of Coca-Cola for entry on May 24th.Friday, May 24th marks the Sixth Anniversary of the World of Coca-Cola at Pemberton Place. You’re invited to celebrate and commemorate this milestone with us and take advantage of a special anniversary celebration ticket offer!$6 Special Ticket Offer for First 600 Guests*

*Special Ticket Offer Details:

A special $6.00 General Admission ticket to the World of Coca-Cola is available for the first 600 guests for purchase at walk-up ticket windows beginning at 9 am on May 24, 2013 only.
Regular General Admission ticket prices will apply following the 600th guest.
The $6.00 ticket offer is limited to the first 600 guests who purchase tickets
Limit of five (5) special $6 tickets per guest.
$6.00 ticket is valid for one entry only.
$6.00 tickets are not available for purchase online.
Gates to Pemberton Place will open at 8:00 am on May 24th.
Special $6.00 tickets are not valid for entry on any other date or time.
This offer is not valid with any other offers. This offer is not valid for any other special/joint ticket offers.

Southern Living 2013 Summer In The South Atlanta Guide

2013-05-23T13:36:00.001-07:00

The Countdown to Summer has officially begun! Where to go & What to do! Download your local guide for Summer events at:

http://www.southernliving.com/static/pdf/summer-events-calendars/atlanta-summer-events-guide.pdf

Time To Vote! Help Georgia SPCA Win a RAM ProMaster Van!

2013-05-23T09:29:00.000-07:00

Georgia SPCA been selected as one of 25 semi-finalists in the Chrysler contest to win a brand new Chrysler Ram ProMaster commercial van! The RAM ProMaster Van will transport hundreds of dogs and cats to low cost spay and neuter clinics which will help reduce thousands of unwanted puppies and kittens from being euthanized. It will transport hundreds of animals from Georgia's high kill shelters to the safety of the Georgia SPCA adoption facility. We will proudly use our Ram ProMaster Van to transport hundreds of animals to adoption events to find a forever home for each and every animal. The Ram ProMaster Van will be a sign that The Georgia SPCA as arrived and thousands of animals will be saved.

Just click this link: http://bit.ly/13lhXYN and click VOTE. That's all - no registration or facebook application is required. You can vote once daily per IP address (laptop, phone, etc.) Please share with everyone you know - we would REALLY love to win this van to transport our rescues. Thank You!

http://www.georgiaspca.org/

Constantly-Updating List On How To Help Oklahoma Tornado Victims (and Pets) #OKMissing #OpOK #Moore #OKShelters #OKPets

2013-05-20T23:06:00.000-07:00

A man and two children walk through debris after a huge tornado struck Moore, OKla., near Oklahoma City, May 20. (Reuters/Richard Rowe)

The Salvation Army: The Salvation Army says it is activating disaster response teams and mobile feeding units to help residents and rescuers in Moore. To donate for the Salvation Army's tornado relief in Oklahoma please visit: https://donate.salvationarmyusa.org/uss/eds/aok

Kim Schwab looks over her destroyed home in south Oklahoma City, Monday, May 20, 2013. Paul Hellstern, The Oklahoman via AP

Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief: This organization says donations will "go straight to help those in need providing tree removal services, laundry services and meals to victims of disasters." It is requesting monetary donations (It says clothing is NOT needed). For more information, and to donate, visit Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief's website.

Earlene Langley, left, hugs from her friend Jerry Dirks after a tornado hit Dirks' home on May 19 near Carney, Okla. Dirks was in the cellar when the tornado struck. Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman, via AP

United Way of Central Oklahoma: A disaster relief fund is being activated as of May 21 so that individuals can specifically donated to tornado relief-and-recovery efforts, the organization says on its site. "Financial contributions are the best way to help unless otherwise requested." Donations can be made online at United Way of Central Oklahoma’s Disaster Relief Fund is open. Donations may be made online here. Checks, with a notation of "May Tornado Relief" can also be sent to the United Way of Central Oklahoma, P.O. Box 837, Oklahoma City, OK , 73101

Leah Hill, of Shawnee, Okla., is hugged by friend Sidney Sizemore, as they look through Hill's scattered belongings from her home which was destroyed by a tornado, west of Shawnee, on May 19. Photo via NBC News

The Red Cross: The link to donate to the Red Cross' tornado relief in Oklahoma http://www.redcross.org/ok/oklahoma-city. Or use your cell phone to donate: Support #OKwx efforts - give online @SalvationArmyUSA.org or text "STORM" to 80888 2 make $10 donation #tornado

Kay James holds her cat as she sits in her driveway after her home was destroyed by the tornado in Oklahoma City, Okla. Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman via AP

Let others know you're okay! Very critical in search & rescue efforts: The Red Cross is sending similar assistance. It is also working to link loved ones in Moore who are OK connect through a website called Safe and Well. The site is: www.safeandwell.org. People can enter their information on the site or use a search feature to see if their loved ones are listed.

Moore Tornado Lost and Found: Connect with loved ones on this Facebook page in the wake of the May 20, 2013 Moore tornado. Let them know you're OK or ask for assistance from others in locating someone https://www.facebook.com/MooreTornadoLostAndFound

OK Tornado Doc & Picture Recovery Group Reunites Oklahoma Victims With Belongings:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/MAY192013OKTORNADODOCSPICS/

Twitter Hashtags: Twitter is also being used as a tool to help find loved ones and aid in the immediate recovery. The hashtag #OKMissing is being used to communicate information about missing people, while #OpOK is being used to tell people about where to find shelter and how to volunteer assistance, as well as other information people want to communicate. Several activist groups, including various factions of Anonymous and Occupy, have been instrumental in getting relief and recovery information through Twitter.

Other hashtags urging people to keep tornado victims in their thoughts trended throughout the day Monday, including #Oklahoma #okc #moore and #PrayForOklahoma.

If any professionals are willing to volunteer post trauma crisis counselling or safe spaces use #OKListen #OpOK.

Photo by mikejenkinstv via Instagram

Lost Animals:

The Animal Resource Center is taking in pets misplaced by the tornado. They are located just north of Moore at the I-240/I-35 intersection. Their address is 7949 S. I-35 Service Road. Phone number is 405-604-2892

Oklahoma Humane are taking displaced animals. Donate to support their disaster relief fund: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=okhumane&id=1

Moore Oklahoma Tornado Lost and Found Anim als facebook page. Volunteers help residents who post photos of their lost animals. The volunteers will compare the pictures with photos they have seen elsewhere of found animals.

There are other established pages that are helping out such as Moore OK S OKC Lost and Found Pets , a lost and found animal page created in February.

Animal Aid: The Pet Food Pantry of OKC is offering dog food, cat food, leashes, collars, food bowls, etc to those in need. (405) 664-2858 www.petfoodpantryokc.org

Maeghan Hadley, of One Day Ranch pet rescue, checks over a kitten pulled from under the rubble of a mobile home destroyed by Sunday's tornado in the Steelman Estates Mobile Home Park, near Shawnee, Okla., Monday, May 20, 2013. (AP Photo Sue Ogrocki)

/ SUE OGROCKI/AP

OU Sooners @UofOklahoma: The University of Oklahoma is opening up spaces in Housing for the displaced families! Call 405-325-2511

Seven-year-old Katrina Ash, right, holds a doll as she waits in the back of a truck with her grandfather, Michael Bowen, left, after a tornado ripped through their neighborhood near Dale, Okla., on May 19. Residents are not being allowed back into the neighborhood as search and rescue efforts take place. Photo by Sue Ogrocki / AP

Google Crisis Map: Google publishes crisis map to identify traffic, shelters, tornado track in wake of Oklahoma twister: http://google.org/crisismap/2013-oklahoma-tornado

Feeding America: Through its network of more than 200 food banks, Feeding America, whose mission is to "feed America's hungry through a nationwide network of member food banks," says it will deliver truckloads of food, water and supplies to communities in need, in Oklahoma, and will also "set up additional emergency food and supply distribution sites as they are needed." You can donate online here. Phone: 1-800-910-5524.

Emergency Shelters:

Text SHELTER & your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area.

Other facilities open to tornado victims:

St. Andrews United Methodist
2727 SW 119th St
OKC

Moore Community Center
201 S Howard
Moore OK

Newcastle Storm Shelter
851 N Carr
Newscastle

Absentee Shawnee Tribe Little Axe Resource Center
Carney Senior Center
301 E Maple
Carney

Shawnee Athletic Center
(Shawnee High School)
1001 North Kennedy
Shawnee, OK

The following shelters have been set up for the victims of the May 20 tornado:

University of Oklahoma – student housing (Norman)

Oklahoma Baptist University – student housing (Shawnee)

Graceway Baptist Church – located at 1100 S.W. 104th in Oklahoma City.

Oakcrest Church of Christ – at 1111 S.W. 89th Street in Moore.

Victory Church located 4300 North MacArthur in Oklahoma City.

Journey Church in Norman I-35 and Tecumseh Road is open as a shelter.

Fifth Street Missionary Baptist Church, located at 801 N.E. 5th St. Oklahoma City.

Trinity Church of the Nazarene is open as an emergency shelter. It is located at 7301 S. Walker, just on the north side of I-240.

Our friends at 11 Alive news are reporting the following:

Habitat for Humanity is working to help those affected in Oklahoma as well as in neighboring Texas, where 60 Habitat homes were damaged by a tornado there.

AmeriCares is helping to provide emergency aid and resources in areas affected by storms at a moment's notice. AmeriCares provides health care resources, first aid and emergency clean-up kits in areas like Moore.

Crews from the North Carolina headquarters of Christian relief organization Samaritan's Purse are already on their way to Oklahoma to help provide relief in Moore and other communities affected by the tornadoes.

The Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma's (BGCO) Disaster Relief Fund is helping to provide tree removal services, laundry services and meals to those affected in the area.

Free Tarps! Just call or go to the address!!

Verizon Wireless Support Units

Mobile Support From the Verizon Wireless News Page:

Verizon Wireless Mobile Support Unit
A 53-foot mobile support unit to for residents of Moore and surrounding areas will be located at the Red Cross Shelter located at 201 S Howard in Moore, OK. This unit is equipped with emergency phones, charging stations and internet capability.
Verizon Wireless Mobile Command Center
A mobile command center will be available to support public safety officials co-located with the FEMA command center in Moore, OK.
Verizon Wireless Charging Stations
Verizon Wireless is deploying multiple charging stations to central Oklahoma. Charging stations are equipped with emergency phones, Internet access, laptop computers and charging capability. Locations for these charging stations are:

Red Cross Shelter located at 201 S Howard in Moore, OK
Home Depot parking lot in Moore, OK – SW 19th and Telephone Road
Shawnee High School – 1001 North Kennedy in Shawnee, OK

Donation drop off locations

Please be a smart donor - call ahead and see what the biggest needs are. Do not bring clothing unless asked.
Feed the Children donation center (donations) – Feed The Children is preparing emergency disaster relief supplies to aid victims of the Moore tornadoes and will be accepting donations from the public on Tuesday, May 21, from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. at the McCormick Distribution Center (29 N. McCormick). Items that will be accepted are diapers, canned goods, non-perishable food and snack items, water and sports drinks.
Salvation Army at KFOR-TV studios (supply drop-off) – Items needed: Bottled water, Gatorade, Wipes, Diapers, Baby formula, Hand towels, Individually wrapped snacks, Work gloves. Please do not bring gloves. Financial donations can also be made to the Salvation Army. Text “storm” to 80888 to make a $10 donation.
All Edmond High Schools have drop offs. Edmond Memorial: Clothing — Edmond North: Bottled Water — Edmond Santa Fe: Canned Food Crawford Family Funeral Service in Edmond is taking donations. Please call 340-2333

OU Equipment at 180 West Brooks in Norman – accepting supplies Memorial Road Church of Christ at 2221 East Memorial Road in Edmond (405-478-0166)

Net Church of Oklahoma City – donations at our location until 12 noon. Location: 2200 N Bryant, Oklahoma City (405-427-5600) New Direction Ministries – 10109 N. Western Avenue (405-242-4692 )

Choctaw Road Baptist Church – collecting water, diapers, toiletries, snack foods, work gloves, gatorade, sunscreen, baby wipes, hand sanitizer, ibuprofen. PLEASE NO CLOTHING. Between 8:15 am and 4:15 pm Tuesday and Wednesday. 14971 East Reno, Choctaw (405-390-9002)

Mustang Brewing Company Headquarters – Open 5/21 at 7:00 a.m. Several thousand square feet of warehouse space opened up. Will get it to those who need it. 520 North Meridian Avenue, Oklahoma City Lucky Star Casino, Event Tent — a trailer is set up for donations from 7:00am till 3:00pm Tuesday and Wednesday (Event Tent on the West Side of the Casino). A cashier will be available for monetary donations. Necessary items, water, gatorade, non perishable foods, diapers, formula and wipes, hand sanitizer, gloves, trash bags, rakes, shovels, flashlight and batteries, suntan lotion, pre packed snacks. No clothes, bedding or household items at this time, as Red Cross has no storage or distribution center set up for these items at this time. Will be needed in the very near future though. EL Reno, Oklahoma (405-422-6500)

First Baptist Church Nicoma Park - donation and drop-off location Juice Blendz at 1200 West Covell Road in Edmond (405-285-0133) The Gate Church is accepting: Water,Sunscreen,Baby Items,Toiletries,Gloves, etc. 7700 North Council Road in Oklahoma City (405-728-7700)

Journey Church in Norman I-35 & Tecumseh in Norman Culver Electric: filling trailers with water, diapers, wipes, formula, gloves, hand tools, sunscreen, Gatorade, and all needed items on the salvation army and red cross list. 1823 West 20th in Elk City.

Zimmer Radio Group: will have a truck/trailer located in their parking lot accepting donations. When one truck fills up, it will be sent and bring in another one to fill. Location: 2702 East 32nd Street in Joplin, Missouri (417-624-1025)

50 Penn Place: Clear Channel station in 50 Penn Place will accept donations at the west entrance.
Location: Street(s), City and Phone (if known): N.W. 50th and Penn West entrance. 405-228-9500.

Salvation Army at KFOR-TV studios (supply drop-off) – Items needed: Bottled water, Gatorade, Wipes, Diapers, Baby formula, Hand towels, Individually wrapped snacks, Work gloves. Financial donations can also be made to the Salvation Army. Text “storm” to 80888 to make a $10 donation.
Feed the Children donation center (donations) – Feed The Children is preparing emergency disaster relief supplies to aid victims of the Moore tornadoes and will be accepting donations from the public on Tuesday, May 21, from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. at the McCormick Distribution Center (29 N. McCormick). Items that will be accepted are diapers, canned goods, non-perishable food and snack items, water and sports drinks.

You can also drop off goods at the following locations:

News 9, 7401 N Kelley Ave, OK City, (405) 843-6641
Crossroads Mall, 7000 Crossroads Blvd, OK City, 405) 631-4421
Fowler Honda, 955 N Interstate Dr, Norman, OK, (405) 329-1077

Missing Persons

The Oklahoma City Police Department has been receiving numerous phone calls from persons wanting to report a family member missing. We ask anyone who needs to make a report for a loved one who resides in Moore to contact the Moore Police Department.

Reports for missing persons out of Oklahoma City can be made one of two ways:
• Walk-in reports can be made at St. Andrews Church 2727 SW 119th Street
• Phone reports can be made by calling 405-297-1129

Volunteer Opportunities:

Volunteer Opportunity on May 22nd at 9am CST

City of Moore sent this bulletin at 05/21/2013 04:26 PM CDT

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

The City of Moore is looking for volunteers for a cemetery clean-up on May 22nd at 9:00 am. Volunteers will be picking up debris from the May 20th Tornado. If you would like to volunteer your time, please meet at the Moore Community Center, 301 S. Howard.

The group will be escorted to the Southgate Baptist Church, where they will walk to the cemetery on foot. Please bring gloves, rakes, etc., and be sure to wear heavy-soled shoes. This is the only volunteer opportunity at this time.
For more information, please contact the Moore Parks Department at 793-5090.

Volunteer opportunity - Journey Church

posted about 11 hours ago by caitria | 3 comments
Tags: volunteering

Journey Church needs volunteers now! They stated: We are getting pretty low on volunteers right now! If you can, come on out!!!"
Phone=405.217.8700

Funeral Arrangement donation

posted about 11 hours ago by caitria | No comments yet
Tags: needs

We have been notified that Primrose Funeral Home of Norman will handle the arrangements of any of those lost in the tornado at no charge to the families.
http://www.dignitymemorial.com/primrose-funeral-service/en-us/index.page

More info: https://moore.recovers.org/

I Dig It! Tunes from the Tombs: A Festival of Music and Spirits Benefiting the Historic Oakland Foundation {GIVEAWAY}

2013-05-20T12:07:00.000-07:00

The annual one-day event features musicians performing in and among Oakland's extraordinary monuments, mausoleums and renowned gardens. Several picturesque main stages host amplified artists, while buskers perform on vignette stages throughout the cemetery park. TUNES FROM THE TOMBS features musicians from Atlanta and beyond. 100% of proceeds go toward operations of the Historic Oakland Foundation. Call 404.688.2107 for more info. Map to Oakland Cemetery.

This year's line-up includes performances by Blair Crimmins and the Hookers, Old 4th Ward Afro-Klezmer Orchestra, Bird City Revolutionaries, The Bonaventure Quartet (featuring Amy Pike), Caroline and the Ramblers, Slim Chance and the Convicts, Rolling Nowhere, Little Country Giants, Wasted Potential Brass Band, and more!

To soothe your spirits, TUNES FROM THE TOMBS will have plenty of beer and wine. Local Atlanta food trucks will be serving a variety of tasty festival fare.

Festival attendees can also take a complimentary guided mini-tour, or have their fortunes read by Atlanta’s own, Robyn Avalon.

Bring a blanket or a lawn chair. No coolers or outside food allowed. Dogs are not allowed due to Atlanta City ordinance.

Parking is $5 at the Grady Health Systems Parking Lot located behind the King Memorial MARTA station on Grant Street, and in the Oakland Cemetery Parking Lot . In keeping with Historic Oakland Foundation’s green initiative, festival attendees are encouraged to ride MARTA to the King Memorial Station.

All proceeds benefit Historic Oakland Foundation. The work of the Foundation is supported by grants from charitable foundations, individuals and events like TUNES FROM THE TOMBS.

Oakland Cemetery has given us two tickets to give away to one of our readers. To win tickets for Tunes From the Tombs all you have to do is leave us a message and register your entry using our Rafflecopter widget.

Tickets may be purchased in advance for $10, or at the gates for $15. Children under 3 are free: http://www.ticketalternative.com/Events/23013.aspx

http://www.oaklandcemetery.com/

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Work In Progress: Refinishing Our Kitchen Table and Light Fixture Re-do

2013-05-20T08:39:00.003-07:00

Hi everybody, I wanted to share just a quick update on my latest DIY project. I'm working on re-doing my kitchen nook and I found this amazing country table set on my neighborhood Goodwill. It was brown and really damaged. I still need to do the chair cushions and get some accessories for the wall. If you know me, you know I will probably get them at a local yard sale, or Goodwill. I never pay full price for things like these. The Chandelier, I bought it two years ago, also at Goodwill and I finally decided to put in use. Is painted in warm yellow and distressed for a more rustic look. It looks so pretty, and it makes the space so happy and cheerful. I spent no more than 50 dollars in the table, chairs and chandelier. Sometimes being patient is worth the wait :)

The Bottom Line on Happiness (VIDEO)

2013-05-20T05:39:00.002-07:00

Andrew Oswald, professor of economics at the University of Warwick, tells Della Bradshaw that research shows happy employees add more to the bottom line. The man dubbed "professor of happiness" says trials have shown a 12 per cent increase in productivity if test subjects were made happier.

Products We Love: Moms Love Mombo™ Nursing Pillow

2013-05-20T02:00:00.001-07:00

This post brought to you by Comfort and Harmony. All opinions are 100% mine.

When you are gearing up to have your baby there are certain essentials you must have. One of my must haves is hands down a nursing pillow. If you are breastfeeding your newborn you want your baby (and yourself) to be as comfortable as possible. Breast milk is widely acknowledged as the most complete form of nutrition for infants, with a range of benefits for infants' health, growth, immunity and development. Breastfeeding is the best way to improve your baby's health.

Mombo has created a fantastic product, Moms love Mombo™ nursing pillow that has a unique shape and a two-sided design called Firm2Soft™, with each side offering a different experience. The firm side gives essential support for mommy and her nursing baby. The soft side is extra cozy—an inviting place for lounging or tummy time. And mombo is the only nursing pillow with a vibration feature, to give baby the ultimate soothing experience while lounging. Look for mombo’s assortment of pillow styles and slipcover fashions. Select your style from Standard, Deluxe or Nude™. Then choose multiple slipcover fashions so you'll always have a spare!

Pillows are available in Standard, Deluxe or Nude. The Deluxe style features exclusive designs and premium fabrics. The covers are removable for easy care and available separately so you'll always have a spare. The Moms Love Mombo nursing pillow starts at around $30 with covers starting around $13 each. They are available at Toys R Us and Babies R Us. Also be sure to check out all of the other mombo products that are available!

Stay up-to-date by "liking" Comfort & Harmony on Facebook and following Comfort & Harmony on Twitter.

Girl Rising Atlanta Screening Changing The World, One Girl At A Time

2013-05-18T20:52:00.001-07:00

On May 13 CARE, the leading humanitarian organization fighting global poverty, hosted a VIP screening of Girl Rising at the Midtown Art Cinema. With the help of 10x10, CARE is investing in adolescent girls in the developing world; helping to create a ripple effect of change that transforms families, communities and entire countries for generations.

Girl Rising is a groundbreaking film, directed by Academy Award nominee Richard Robbins, which tells the stories of 9 extraordinary girls from 9 countries who who face arranged marriages, child slavery, rape, and other social injustices as they bravely battle to get educations.

Each girl is paired with a renowned writer from her native country: Marie Arana (Peru), Edwidge Danticat (Haiti), Mona Eltahawy (Egypt), Aminatta Forna (Sierre Leone), Zarghuna Kargar (Afghanistan), Maaza Mengiste (Ethiopia), Sooni Taraporevala (India), Manjushree Thapa (Nepal), and Loung Ung (Cambodia).

These stories are narrated by celebrated actresses: Cate Blanchett (Haiti), Priyanka Chopra (India), Selena Gomez (Sierra Leone), Anne Hathaway (Afghanistan), Salma Hayek (Peru), Alicia Keys (Cambodia), Chloë Moretz (Egypt), Freida Pinto, Meryl Streep (Ethiopia), and Kerry Washington (Nepal).

Girl Rising also features Freida Pinto and Liam Neeson, with original music
from Academy Award-winner Rachel Portman and Lorne Balfe.

The girls act out stories adapted from their own lives by writers from their own countries, including Edwidge Danticat, AminaGta Forna and Manjushree Thapa and narrated by 9 renowned actresses. Despite these obstacles, the brave girls offer hope and inspiration. By getting an education, they're able to break barriers and create change. Girl Rising showcases the strength of the human spirit and the power of education to change the world and breaking the cycle of poverty.

10x10 is a social action organization seeking educational equality for underprivileged girls across the globe. Director Richard Robbins tells the moving stories of several of these girls, with help from some of the most recognizable female voices of today.

10x10 has partnered with Theatrical On DemandSM film distribution service, Gathr Films, to distribute Girl Rising to movie theaters around the country by request. That means Girl Rising will come to any community that “demands” it, as long as enough people reserve enough tickets online in advance to guarantee a screening.

This innovative, crowd-sourced distribution model ensures that more people in more places will have the opportunity to see the film and get involved as agents of change. Hosting a screening of Girl Rising is one way that grassroots activists, campus organizations, corporate leaders, and committed individuals around the world can raise awareness about why educating girls matters to all of us.

To donate and learn how you can bring Girl Rising to your community, please visit our the how to Gathr a screening page. Please watch the trailer and explore the film in detail at girlrising.com

Change Your Mind Change Your World: The Dalai Lama And Other Leaders Discuss Ways To Make The World a Healthier, Happier Place

2013-05-18T16:39:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, May 15, several of the world's foremost thinkers join the Dalai Lama in Madison to discuss how neuroscience, environments, economics, and healthcare can combine to make the world a healthier, happier place.

Panelists include; Dr. Richard J. Davidson, Dr. Jonathan Patz and Matthieu Ricard. Moderated by Arianna Huffington.

Wisconsin Public Television recorded two panel discussions featuring the Dalai Lama.

Watch full-length video of both discussions below.

For more information on the panelists visit the Change Your Mind Change the World website.

Watch Change Your Mind Change the World, Part 1 on PBS. See more from WPT Presents.

Apps We Love: Scholly Lets You Find Scholarships For College

2013-05-17T11:54:00.000-07:00

Need a scholarship?

I have great news for you! Chris and Bryson, two Coca-Cola Scholars, launched Scholly, a mobile app that helps high school students, current undergraduates, *and* graduate students find scholarships for college!

The Scholly App is designed to ease the scholarship search process, Scholly aims to fix the outdated search methods that require filling out long, tiresome forms and then fail to deliver relevant results.

Scholly’s adaptive matching engine promises to deliver smarter, targeted lists of scholarships. Find scholarships you qualify for in minutes. No sign ups or long forms asking for your personal information and you can even see samples of scholarship winning essays right in the app!

To download Scholly please visit: http://www.myscholly.com/

Word on the street is that the app is already getting fantastic reviews!

Southern Hospitality at Its Best! Marchex Data Reveals Georgia as Top 5 “Most Courteous” State

2013-05-17T09:38:00.000-07:00

SHOW ME YOUR MANNERS!

In a recent study, The Marchex Institute, the research arm of Marchex, used Call Mining technology to aggregate data from more than 600,000 phone calls placed from consumers to businesses across 30 industries. After scanning for curse words and linking the frequency of those words with all 50 states, they found people in Georgia are more likely to say please and thank you than any other state. Read more at: http://blog.marchex.com/2013/05/15/marchex-data-reveals-ohioans-curse-the-most-in-the-country-washingtonians-the-least/

#HabitatRebuilds: Rising Like a Phoenix From the Ashes Habitat For Humanity Gears Up To Rebuild Texas Homes Destroyed by Tornadoes

2013-05-17T07:54:00.000-07:00

Habitat is assessing damage to homes from last Wednesday’s tornado. Several tornadoes ripped through the Granbury, Texas, area destroying at least 120 homes in a neighborhood that includes 61 Habitat for Humanity houses. Habitat For Humanity plans to help affected families and communities rebuild from this disaster. You can help us by donating today. They have mounted a response to help families rebuild.

Habitat for Humanity will assist with clean up, repairs and new construction efforts as need and available resources become clearer. Your gift today to the Disaster Response Fund can help people affected by these storms and disasters like it. To donate please visit:

https://www.habitat.org/cd/giving/one/donate.aspx?link=486

Currently Obsessed With: Oprah's Maui Farm

2013-05-17T05:03:00.001-07:00

Is Oprah Winfrey the happiest farmer in Maui?

After more than 20 years of friendship, Oprah and her favorite health expert, Bob Greene, are taking their love of nourishing foods back to its roots -- by rolling up their sleeves, tilling the soil, and sharing one heck of a beautiful bounty.

The media mogul has opened the doors to her Maui, Hawaii farm in the June 2013 issue of O Magazine, showing off her 780 acres of lush terrain in the gorgeous editorial spread.

It felt like we were not using the land to its ultimate potential and purpose and giving back to the people of the land, so right now, we're growing all these vegetables," Winfrey, 59, says of the produce her farm grows.

"We tested our soil and enriched our soil and we have some of the richest... I mean our soil is like chocolate around here."

Oprah's farm is situated at almost 4,000 feet elevation on the side of Haleakala, a dormant volcano, where it gets consistent rainfall and plenty of sun.

Despite Hawaii's lush farming conditions, roughly 90 percent of its food is imported from the mainland. Oprah and Bob hope to help change that. Here: freshly picked carrots.

"Rich, fertile soil helps the plants give you the nutrients you need to thrive." -- Bob Greene

"Whatever our dreams, ideas, or projects, we plant a seed, nurture it -- and then reap the fruits of our labors." -- Oprah

Hat: Anne Moore, $245; AnneMoore.com

Oprah Magazine is offering one reader and a guest the chance to win the prize of a lifetime. Enter the "Grow Your Life—with Oprah and Bob Greene" Contest and win an all-expenses-paid, four-night trip to Maui to meet Oprah and wellness expert Bob Greene for a hike and lunch at Oprah’s farm!

*Photos courtesy Oprah Magazine

Win the CB2 and Novogratz Brasil Getaway! #CB2NovogratzBrasilSweepstakes

2013-05-17T03:00:00.001-07:00

This post brought to you by CB2. All opinions are 100% mine.

The CB2 family is excited to partner on their latest collection with husband-and-wife design duo Robert and Cortney Novogratz.

I'm a big fan of their bold, colorful style as seen on their popular TV home design shows. Their eye is playful, their mix of modern with vintage is fresh and unpredictable.

CB2 and Novogratz Collection debuted on May 2nd, and was inspired by their vacation home in Brazil.

It features pops of hot color mixed into warm wood, as well as range of items and price points, from the whimsical Luli Table Lamp at $129, to the sophisticated, modern Dupla Credenza at $499.

Robert and Cortney Novogratz, and their seven children, called "the coolest family in the world" by The Times of London, are known to millions worldwide through their unique lifestyle, design aesthetic, and TV programs. Their first show, 9 by Design, aired on Bravo and their show, Home by Novogratz on HGTV, is one of the network's most popular programs.

They have twice been profiled in The New York Times, and have been featured in such publications as Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, Travel + Leisure, American Way, Oprah Home Magazine, and Star, among many others.

CB2 is doing a sweepstakes to celebrate the new Novogratz Brasil collection. I encourage you to try your luck. You and 3 friends could win the trip of a lifetime! Win a one week stay at the vacation home of CB2 collaborators Bob and Courtney Novogratz in beautiful Transcoso, Brasil. There are 10 other lucky winners that will receive a CB2 giftcard worth $100 along with personally signed copy of the book “Home by Novogratz”. No purchased is necessary to enter.

Enter CB2 and Novogratz Brasil Sweepstakes via cb2.com/sweeps. Sweepstakes to run from May 2nd through June 3rd. Follow CB2 on their social media channels for more updates on the Brasil trip of a lifetime:

Twitter: @CB2Tweets
Pinterest: CB2
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cb2

8 Idioms About Happiness That Make You Happy as a Clam [Illustration]

2013-05-16T17:56:00.000-07:00

Check out this fun cartoon! Learn different ways to say “I’m happy” with these fun English idioms.

Family Friendly Events We Love: The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs by A. Wolf at Center for Puppetry Arts (May 28-June 9)

2013-05-16T16:01:00.001-07:00

Based on the book by Jon Scieszka (Used by permission)

By Paul Mesner Puppets of Kansas City, MO

2013-14 Family Series

May 28 - June 9, 2013
Downstairs Theater
Recommended for ages 4 & up

Showtimes
•Tues-Fri: 10am & 12pm
•Sat: 11am, 1pm & 3pm
•Sun: 1pm & 3pm

Think you know the real story behind the huffing and puffing? Think again! In this revealing, no-squealing adaptation of Jon Scieszka’s popular book, Alexander T. Wolf finally has a chance to tell his side of the story. He only wanted a cup of sugar and he had a cold. For years we have only known this story from the pigs’ point of view. Now, Mr. A. Wolf explains what really happened to those houses made of straw, sticks, and bricks and the three little pigs that lived in them.

To learn more about Paul Mesner Puppets, click here!

Puppetry Style:
Rod, Body, Shadow

Create-A-Puppet Workshop:
Make your own A. Wolf Hand Puppet !

Tickets for patrons ages two and older are $9.25 (Members) and $16.50 (Nonmembers) and include the performance, museum admission, and the Create-A-Puppet Workshop (or To-Go Kit). BUY TICKETS AT WWW.PUPPET.ORG OR CALL 404-873-3391. For more information, call 404-873-3391 or visit www.puppet.org/perform/truestorypigs.shtml.

*Photos by Pail Mesner

Children's Books We Love: Pumpkinheads Books for Young Children

2013-05-15T11:37:00.000-07:00

At Pumpkinheads™, children's books help teach an awareness and love of self, kindness and tolerance toward others, and an appreciation of the amazing and wondrous world that we live in. It is never too early for children to hear and learn these concepts, especially from fun and engaging books!

Carmin Cares, is the first in a series of toddler and preschool books from Pumpkinheads, this environmental book for children sends a subtle yet important message about appreciating our world. When a day at the park doesn't go as planned, find out how Carmin takes a stand!

Ready to play, Carmin and her pup, Peanut, find themselves in a sticky situation! When Carmin gets gum stuck on her shoe, she decides something has to be done about the mess on the playground. Through lovable characters and easy to follow rhymes, this charming and beautifully illustrated children's book teaches young children to take responsibility for their world, proving that even small hands can make a big difference! This charming picture book for children teaches kids to take responsibility for their world, proving that even small hands can make a big difference! Mom's Choice Award Gold Honoree Purchase on Kindle.

Check out our Pumpkinheads worksheets for the classroom and at home! Danza loves her kind heart (this is on the inside!). Danza loves her big twinkly eyes (this is on the outside!) Write what you love about yourself on the inside and the outside. Download the full PDF by clicking on this link.

http://pumpkinheads.com

What's Happy This Week: Little League® vs. Sandy: A Comeback Story

2013-05-15T08:43:00.001-07:00

Staten Island little league Inc. is a recognized 501c3 organization founded in 1953, with the mission to provide the boys and girls with a safe environment to play baseball and softball, to create an environment that young men and women can learn the important lessons of loyalty, teamwork, respect and sportsmanship to eventually become productive citizens in their community and beyond.

Staten Island little league offers Baseball and Softball programs for boys and girls aged 4-12 in addition they offer a “Challenger Division”. This is a sanctioned little league program for mentally and physically challenged youth, helping them enjoy the full benefits of little league participation in an athletic environment structured to their abilities. Staten Island little currently have over five hundred children enrolled in each of their programs.

The Staten Island Little League complex was badly damaged by Hurricane Sandy. Estimates place the damage to their complex in excess of 1.5 million dollars with no insurance coverage available. The baseball equipment room was also flooded, ruining all equipment, baseballs and uniforms.

Honda, the official vehicle sponsor of Little League®, donated $50,000 to the Staten Island Little League to help rebuild their baseball facilities. With Honda's donation, storm ravaged fields, bleachers and dugouts will be repaired in time for the league's 32-team opening day on April 20th.

Honda Donation Helps Preserve Baseball and Softball Season for Staten Island Little League

On opening day, Honda gifted the Staten Island Little League with a ceremonial check and hosted several fundraising events in an effort to increase community awareness. The additional money raised through these events will help replace damaged scoreboards and field lighting plus fund other needs throughout the season.

Rebuilding is a huge undertaking and they still need help. Please donate directly to Staten Island Little League at http://rebuildSILL.com

Thought of the Day: How would You Like to be Remembered?

2013-05-15T07:41:00.001-07:00

About a hundred years ago, a man looked at the morning newspaper and to his surprise and horror, read his name in the obituary column. The news papers had reported the death of the wrong person by mistake.

His first response was shock. Am I here or there? When he regained his composure, his second thought was to find out what people had said about him. The obituary read, “Dynamite King Dies.” And also “He was the merchant of death.”

This man was the inventor of dynamite and when he read the words “merchant of death,” he asked himself a question, “Is this how I am going to be remembered?”

He got in touch with his feelings and decided that this was not the way he wanted to be remembered. From that day on, he started working toward peace. His name was Alfred Nobel and he is remembered today by the great Nobel Prize.

Just as Alfred Nobel got in touch with his feelings and redefined his values,
We should step back and do the same.

What is your legacy?
How would you like to be remembered?
Will you be spoken well of?
Will you be remembered with love and respect?
Will you be missed?

Behind Every Great Kid is a Mom Who's Pretty Sure She's Screwing it Up

2013-05-12T05:09:00.001-07:00

Moms be sure to give yourselves a break and stop beating yourself up up for every little thing. Stop second guessing yourselves and have confidence in your decisions. You don't become a better mother by being perfect. You become a better mother by practicing self compassion, opening yourself to new ideas, and knowing and accepting your limits. Is time to leave insecurities behind and give yourself permission to be imperfect. No more perfect moms!

Fall In Love Over and Over Again With Atlanta Ballet Love Stories - Review

2013-05-11T10:12:00.001-07:00

Atlanta Ballet Love Stories opening night at the Cobb Energy Performance Art Center was an evening of passion-filled dance, breathtaking techniques, incredible music and fiery, exotic and sexy characters. Audience was swept off their feet with this sumptuous program that explores the theme of love through classic and innovative choreography.

Love Stories features a selection of passion-filled dance works that highlight the athleticism and energy of Atlanta Ballet's dancers.

The evening includes the White Swan Pas de Deux from Matthew Bourne's avant-garde interpretation of Swan Lake, the Wedding Night Pas de Deux from Puccini's Madame Butterfly, Prayer of Touch by Atlanta Ballet's new resident choreographer Helen Pickett and Requiem for a Rose, a passionate piece from Netherlands-based choreographer Annabelle Lopez Ochoa that blends contemporary staging with classical dance. Atlanta Ballet Love Stories will please everyone, very strong non-verbal dancing and lots of drama! Highly recommended!

Atlanta Ballet’s Love Stories runs for four performances Mother’s Day weekend, Friday, May 10 through Sunday, May 12, at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre - 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30339.

Tickets start as low as $20 and are on sale now. To purchase tickets, visit www.atlantaballet.com or call 404-892-3303.

Mother's Day Gifts That Give Back

2013-05-11T08:33:00.003-07:00

Covenant House E-Cards: Celebrate a holiday, anniversary, birthday, or any special day by giving a gift with meaning...one that can actually help save a life. Covenant House was founded in 1972 with the simple, profound mission to help homeless kids escape the streets. Today we are the largest privately funded charity in the Americas providing loving care and vital services to homeless, abandoned, abused, trafficked, and exploited youth.

Bert's Big Adventure Origami Owl custom lockets:When you shop at Origami Owl and choose Bert's Big Adventure at checkout and 25% of the proceeds goes to Bert's Big Adventure.

Established in 2002, Bert’s Big Adventure is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides a magical, all-expenses-paid, five-day journey to Walt Disney World® for children with chronic and terminal illnesses and their families. To qualify for Bert’s Big Adventure, children must be between the ages of 5 and 12, live in “The Bert Show” radio listening area, prove financial need and have never been to Walt Disney World®.

Following the annual trip, Bert’s Big Adventure provides year-round support through initiatives such as the Reunion Adventures, the Fairy Godparent volunteer program and additional charitable services. The trip and programs create a community of families that establish lasting friendships with others facing similar challenges.

CARE.org e-cards! Honor your mother and empower another. Donate today in honor of your Mom and let her know with an e-card! Help save lives and empower women around the world by making a donation this Mother’s day in honor of your mother or another special woman in your life. Your gift can help mothers safeguard their health so they can make sure their children grow up strong, go to school and become self-sufficient. We can’t think of a better gift for Mom than helping poor mothers and children get the care they need to survive and thrive!

CARE is a leading humanitarian organization fighting global poverty. We place special focus on working alongside poor women because, equipped with the proper resources, women have the power to help whole families and entire communities escape poverty. Women are at the heart of CARE's community-based efforts to improve basic education, prevent the spread of disease, increase access to clean water and sanitation, expand economic opportunity and protect natural resources. CARE also delivers emergency aid to survivors of war and natural disasters, and helps people rebuild their lives.