Toys In The Dryer--Events and Reviews

Despicable Me 2 Advanced Screening Ticket #Giveaway!!

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 18:49:00 +0000

Despicable Me 2 comes to theaters on July 3rd

and my family can't wait!! We loved the first one and it looks like the second one might be just as good if not better.

Here's the synopsis from the press release:

Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment’s worldwide blockbuster Despicable Me entertained audiences around the globe in 2010, grossing more than $540 million and becoming the 10th-biggest animated motion picture in U.S. history. In summer 2013, get ready for more Minion madness in Despicable Me 2.

Chris Meledandri and his acclaimed film making team create an all-new comedy adventure featuring the return of (former?) super-villain Gru (Steve Carell), his adorable girls, the unpredictably hilarious Minions...and a host of new and outrageously funny characters.

Check out the official trailer below and tell me that you won't laugh ton during this movie!

Can't get enough? Visit http://despicableme.com for more clips, behind the scenes info, and fan fun.

Fortunately, my family doesn't have to wait till July 3rd to see Despicable Me 2. We've got advanced screening tickets!!

If you live in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area you can enter to win tickets too! You must be 18 years of age or older to enter and you must be able to see the movie on Thursday June 27 at 7:00 pm at the Southdale Theaters.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Big Time Rush at the Mall of America

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 20:40:00 +0000

Big Time Rush to sign copies of new album, “24/seven,” at Mall of America^®

WHAT: Nickelodeon and Columbia Records international music sensation and TV superstars, Big Time Rush (BTR), will sign copies of their new album, “24/seven,” at Mall of America® on Thursday, June 13.

Beginning at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, June 11, guests can purchase a copy of “24/seven” from Best Buy Mall of America and will receive a wristband that grants them access to the autograph line. This will be the only opportunity for guests to acquire a wristband, which are limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

The album signing will kick off the MOA Sound Lounge, a daily hub for teens, featuring celebrities, deejays and live music throughout the summer. Powered by Pepsi, the MOA Sound Lounge will be located in the Patio (southwest corner of Nickelodeon Universe).

For more information about the Big Time Rush album signing at Mall of America, click here.

WHEN: Thursday, June 13 4:00 p.m.

WHERE: Mall of America – The Patio (MOA Sound Lounge, powered by Pepsi)

9th Annual Alex's Lemonade Stand at the Mall of America®

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Fri, 31 May 2013 20:50:00 +0000

WHAT: An estimated 263,000 new cases of childhood cancer are found every year. Alex’s Lemonade Stand aims to raise $25,000 for childhood cancer research at Mall of America® on Sunday, June 2 hosted once again by the Hollway family.

Sunday’s event will feature ice-cold lemonade for purchase, a silent auction with items donated by the Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Twins and performances by Cache and Victoria Dance Productions.

Alex’s Lemonade Stand was originally created by Alexandra Scott of Pennsylvania in 2000. She held her first lemonade stand at the age of four to help find a cure for childhood cancer, raising $1 million for the cause. On Aug. 1, 2004, Scott lost her battle with cancer, but her legacy is carried on nationwide by families like the Hollway family.

Molly Hollway was diagnosed with cancer at 13 months old. Ten years later her family planned their first Alex’s Lemonade Stand event at Mall of America. Molly just finished her sophomore year at the University of Minnesota and is a driving force behind raising money and awareness of childhood cancer.

For more information visit www.mallofamerica.com/events.

WHEN: Sunday, June 2 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

WHERE: Mall of America – Rotunda

Kemps® Hometown Favorites Ice Cream Contest

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Thu, 30 May 2013 18:26:00 +0000

Did you know that Kemps® is a local brand? I didn't. I totally thought it was a national brand. Kemps® products are made right here in Minnesota and are sold in Minnesota and parts of Wisconsin, Iowa and the Dakotas. Their frozen yogurt, however, is also sold throughout the Southeast. In 2011, Kemps® started the Hometown Favorites Ice Cream Contest as a way to remind people that they are hometown produced.

This contest allows you to dream up your own ice cream flavor with the chance to see it on store shelves in the future! It doesn't hurt that you could also win $2500! Last year the contest generated more than 250 submissions with even more expected this year. Here's how it works:

Now through June 7: Submit your dream flavor (You only have a week left!)--Submit your dream flavor, inspired by your family traditions. What flavors remind you of your family traditions? Think outside the box people...make it unique!

**Hundreds of submissions will be narrowed down by Kemps® and their marketing agency over the next 7 days. They will choose 10 semi-finalists based on uniqueness, flavor combinations, how closely the flavor fits the family traditions theme, back story of the flavor, how feasible it is to actually make the flavor (hint: real pickle pieces won't work with ice cream because of the acidity), and other factors.

June 14-June 30: Vote for the finalists--The top 10 flavors will be posted online on June 14 where you can vote to help determine the top two flavors. The third finalist will be chosen by Joe and Teresa Mauer.

August 1: Vote for the winner--Vote online for the flavor you think is most interesting.

**From August 1-August 21, Logan Julstrom (Kemps® Senior Food Technologist) will be working closely with the three finalists to perfect their recipes then Kemps® will actually make the ice creams so that...

August 22-September 2: Sample the flavors at the Minnesota State Fair--Yup, you can actually try these flavors and vote on them at the 2013 MN State Fair!

**The winner will be selected by a combination of online votes, State Fair votes, and scores from a celebrity judging panel including Teresa Mauer.

August 28--2013 Hometown Favorites winner announced. The winning flavor hits the market the following summer.

The 2011 winner was Land of 10,000 Licks. This ice cream combines sweet cream ice cream with caramel, sea salt, and toffee pieces for the perfect sweet and salty treat. I kid you not, I could not stop eating this flavor once I started. The first bite is a bit salty but then the sweetness takes over and you are hooked

Last year's 2012 winner was Mini-sota Donut. I was able to pre-sample this flavor when I got a tour of the Kemps® factory (another post to come). Yum is all I can say! Cinnamon and nutmeg combined with real donut pieces!

What are you waiting for? Submit your dream flavor today! You might just find it on the store shelves next year!!

I was given a tour of the Kemps® factory and swag as compensation for helping to promote the Hometown Favorites Contest. All opinions are 100% my own.

The Microsoft Store at the Mall of America

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Tue, 14 May 2013 02:47:00 +0000

Last week I had the privilege of attending a mini class at the Microsoft Store at the Mall of America. A few bloggers (including myself) got a look at Windows 8 and the new Microsoft Surface tablet. It was very informative and a ton of fun.

I'll start off by saying that the commercials for the Surface do NOT do it justice! To be honest, I was a bit confused by the Surface at first and Windows 8 didn't make it any better. After a bit of hands-on playing with the tablet and a tutorial on how Windows 8 works, I am in love!

In my opinion, the Surface blows the competition out of the water as far as functionality goes. It's got a mini HDMI port for HD output, a USB port, and a microSD™ card slot to expand memory. It's biggest competitor doesn't have all three of those and neither does my current tablet. The Surface tablet itself is super durable and the keyboard accessory (once clicked onto it) completes a perfect "case" for it. Being completely set up for windows makes this a computer in a tablet size. Pay a little more for the Pro and you can upload 3rd party software such as Quicken! The only disadvantage I see to the Surface is that there are not currently as many apps for Microsoft as their are for Andriod or Apple.

As far as the Microsoft store at the Mall of America goes, this place is awesome! In fact, we're hoping to have a gathering their for our readers and their kids in the near future! In the first photo is their theater area in the back of the store. They host all kinds of gatherings back there.

Did you know they will host birthday parties for FREE!? Gather all you child's friends and play Xbox or Kinect on their HUGE 103 in touch screen! They also hold FREE camps for kids! Check out MicrosoftStore.com/Bloomington for more details. Hurry! Programs start in June!!

The other really cool thing about the Microsoft Store in the MOA is that they can print Skinit right in the store! Yes, they have their own Skinit printer. No waiting for shipping, just wait 15 minutes for printing! See how cute mine turned out?! I think I'll make another one to advertise Toys In The Dryer when I'm at the coffee shop or at a conference.

What are you waiting for? Go head on over to the Microsoft Store at the MOA, check it out, and check out the Surface while you're at it! What about trying out a FREE camp or birthday party??

I was NOT asked to blog about the Surface or the Microsoft Store. I am simply doing it because I was impressed. I received my Skinit for free as well as a swag bag at the event however these did not affect my opinion. The opinions expressed are 100% my own.

Silhouettes by Clay Rice

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 20:59:00 +0000

Back by popular demand…Silhouettes by Clay Rice! Clay is hitting Creative Kidstuff Twin Cities stores 5/2 –5/5 just in time for Mother's Day! Silhouettes are available by appointment only so follow the link below and sign up your child today.

Clay Rice will create a silhouette of your child in just five minutes!

He will be at the the following stores:
Galleria, Thursday May 2, 10am - 5pm
St. Paul, Friday May 3, 10am - 5pm
Maple Grove, Saturday May 4, 10am - 5pm
Minneapolis, Sunday May 5, 11am - 2pm

Link to Register: http://www.creativekidstuff.com/clayrice.html

Pricing:

$42.00 per person

$10.00 for additional copies

$24.00 5x7 Frame and Mat

$38.00 8 X 10 Frame and Mat

$58.00 8 x 20 Frame and Mat

$75.00 Package choose between:

Lonely Shadow Book with 1 silhouette
Mama Let's Make a Moon with 1 silhouette
2 silhouettes of one child

Give Your Teacher a "High Five"!

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 15:55:00 +0000

Did you know May is Teacher Appreciation Month?

My sister is an elementary school teacher and I know all too well how much she goes unnoticed and unappreciated. Without teachers most of us would not be where we are today. I am a successful nurse because of the teachers I had growing up.

To celebrate Teacher Appreciation Month, and educators all across the country, Emmy Award-Winning Educational Program Green Screen Adventures has invited your elementary school student to Give Your Teacher A High-Five!

How to Give Your Teacher A High-Five!:

Who: Students from 2^nd to 8^th grade
What: In 40 words or less, students write an explanation of why their teacher deserves a “High-Five,” including the teacher’s name, location, and school. Optionally, students can submit photos and drawings.
When: Tuesday, April 16 through Tuesday, May 14
Where: Submissions can be made online at http://greenscreenadventures.tv/give-your-teacher-a-high-five/

Five student submissions will be read on-air by one of the actors on Green Screen Adventures on the Saturday, May 25 and Sunday, May 26 shows on Me-TV. Plus, an honor roll of an additional 50 “High-Fives” will be featured on the show!

For more information and guidelines, visit the brand new Green Screen Adventures website at www.greenscreenadventures.tv or check them out on twitter and facebook for upcoming episodes, national coverage on student writers, and other news.

This information in this post was provided to us by Green Screen Adventures. We received no compensation for this post.

Nickelodeon Universe® VIP Orange Party at Mall of America®

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:41:00 +0000

WHAT: Nickelodeon Universe® Facebook fans are invited to an exclusive event with free rides for two whole hours, music and prizes. Guests must either wear orange or present a VIP pass to receive the Orange Party ride wristband. VIP pass available on www.facebook.com/nickuniverse.

Guests can purchase an additional three hours of unlimited rides for $10.

WHEN: Sunday, April 14
9 - 11 a.m. VIP Orange Party – Free rides
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Additional three hours of unlimited rides for $10

WHERE: Mall of America – Nickelodeon Universe

RUUM American Kid's Wear Opens at the MOA

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 01:29:00 +0000

Source

HAVE YOU HEARD THE RUMMOUR?

It's true! There's a new kid's fashion brand on the block--

RUUM American Kid's Wear!

What: Come celebrate RUUM's Grand Opening at the Mall of America! From the founders of The Children's Place, Ruum (pronounced "room") offers head to toe kids outfitting, exceptional quality, and great value. They have clothes for infants 0 through kids size 14. Ruum collections are designed to coordinate easily and to cover all of a child's lifestyle needs.

At their Grand Opening enjoy surprise promotions, fun activities for kids, and free giveaways all weekend long including great deals for online and in-store purchases, Instant Win savings cards and bonus points on Ruum’s new loyalty program. During the Grand Opening, Ruum will also kick off The Grand Ruum Sweepstakes, a month-long sweepstakes with daily winners and the grand prize of a $2000 Ruum gift card.

When: Friday, March 22 - Sunday, March 24, 2013
During regular Mall hours
(Jamie will be there Saturday around 4ish--watch for her tweets)

Where: RUUM's new store located at the Mall of America space S-214 (south side, second floor).

I will be receiving a swag bag at the Grand Opening event in exchange for promoting it via my social media channels. I received no further compensation for this post.

Demand the Change for Children at Mall of America®

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 23:56:00 +0000

Source

WHAT: Hundreds of Minnesotans will join advocates at Mall of America^® to rally against sexual abuse and the exploitation of children at Demand the Change for Children on Saturday, March 23. Organized by the Minnesota Coalition Against Sexual Assault (MNCASA), Demand the Change for Children is a call to action to raise awareness and strengthen prevention efforts of child sex abuse. This family-friendly celebration gives a voice to those affected by abuse and focuses on the community’s ability to prevent abuse and exploitation.

The day will be packed with exciting and interactive activities including the opportunity to join the Women’s Drum Heart performance and zumba. There will be performances by the MacPhail Youth Choir, Rochester International Dance Studio, Heather Lyn with youthrive:LIVE! as well as soccer demonstrations by Tony Sanneh and the Tony Sanneh Foundation. Kids will get hands on with crafts including origami, quilt square and hero cape making. The Smooch! Project will also have a booth set up to snap photos of loved ones puckering up. This year for the first time, the event has added a new HOPE section where people can share their experiences and find out how to get involved in prevention efforts.

Sexual abuse of children happens at alarming rates. Demand the Change for Children is a grassroots collaboration of individuals and organizations working together to end the abuse and exploitation of children and advance prevention efforts by promoting healthy, respectful relationships and safe and supportive environments for all children. For more information visit www.demandthechangeforchildren.org

WHEN: Saturday, March 23
11:45 a.m. – 5 p.m.

WHERE: Mall of America - Rotunda

The Mother Baby Center

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 02:51:00 +0000

The Mother Baby Center at Children’s Hospital in Minneapolis has been open for a little over a month. In that month they’ve delivered 310 babies (11 on the first day!), 12 sets of twins, and 1 set of triplets. What makes them so special? Allina Hospitals and Clinics and Children’s Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota (two of the best hospitals in the area for high risk delivery and infant care) formally partnered to integrate their mother and baby services.

image source

Previously, critically ill and premature babies born at Abbot Northwestern were whisked through a ¼ mile tunnel to Children’s Hospital’s level 3 NICU. Though the partnership boasted some of the best outcomes in the country when it came to caring for premature and critically ill infants, the separation between mother and baby at two hospitals created stress on both the babies and their families. Now, Abbot and Children’s host their Mother Baby Center under one roof to provide the only birth center of its kind in Minnesota (and one of only a few in the country).
Having an average of 12 labor and delivery patients per day in its first month, The Mother Baby Center has the capacity for 5,000 potential births each year. The design makes a seamless transition from delivery room or operating room to the NICU just steps through a skyway. A neonatal team can be at a high-risk delivery in only 90 seconds (vs. up to 4 minutes with the hospitals separated). All post-partum areas (including the NICU) are designed to keep the mothers and babies together as much as possible with areas for families to sleep at the bedside.
I had the privilege of touring the Mother Baby Center just before it opened. As both a pediatric nurse and a mother I must say I was impressed! I kept walking around saying, “I wish I had this when I delivered my daughters,” and “I wish my unit had this/looked like this.” The center is state-of-the-art as far as medical things, yet warm and inviting for families.
They've thought of everything from spacious bathrooms to safes in the rooms for personal belongings, to sleep rooms for adoptive parents, to a party area for expectant mothers who can't leave the hospital to have a baby shower or birthday party. For the staff, they've provided some of the latest technology to provide the best and most up to date care possible. I just might want to have another baby so I can give birth at the Mother Baby Center! Or maybe not...two kids is enough. If you, however, are expecting or are planning on expecting in the future, you'll definitely want to consider giving birth there. To find out more about the Mother Baby Center please visit their website at http://themotherbabycenter.org/.

Full disclosure: I am a nurse in the PICU at Children’s Hospital. All opinions are 100% my own. Being an employee of Children’s does not affect my opinion as I do not work in any areas connected with the Mother Baby Center. I received no compensation for this post.

American Girl Fashion Show® This Weekend!!

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 21:10:00 +0000

The Junior League of Minneapolis proudly presents the 12th annual American Girl Fashion Show®!

The American Girl Fashion Show® is a fun-filled event for girls and their families, friends, and favorite dolls! Celebrate the experience of being a girl, whether yesterday or today, through a colorful presentation of historical and contemporary fashions. Enjoy refreshments, enter to win door prizes, and learn how clothing has changed over the years to reflect history, culture, and girls’ individual style.

When: Friday, March 8, 2013, at 6 p.m. (Special Show)**
Saturday, March 9, 2013, at 1:30 p.m
Saturday, March 9, 2013, at 6 p.m. (VIP)
Sunday, March 10, 2013, at 1:30 p.m.

**Come see Nutty model in the Friday show!!

Where: The Capri Theater
2027 W. Broadway Ave
Minneapolis MN 55411

Each show will last approximately 2 hours, with time before, during, and after intermission to purchase souvenirs, raffle tickets and snacks/refreshments.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their dolls and wear their favorite American Girl® clothing. A doll hair salon will be open for business before, during and after the show. The doll hair salon is complimentary during the Special Show and VIP show.

All fashion show ticket holders will have the chance to win wonderful door prizes. Raffle tickets will also be available for purchase. Raffle prizes will include an assortment of American Girl® dolls and accessories, as well as fabulous prizes from local retailers.

To purchase tickets please visit the Junior League of Minneapolis website. The tickets are selling out fast so get yours ASAP!

The American Girl Fashion Show® benefits the mission of the Junior League of Minneapolis and its projects that serve the Minneapolis community. Past projects include the Greater Minneapolis Crisis Nursery, Free Arts MN and the Jeremiah Program. Current projects address the achievement gap. The Junior League of Minneapolis reaches out to women of all races, religions and national origins who demonstrate an interest in, and commitment to, voluntarism.

I received tickets to the American Girl Fashion Show and Nutty's model fee was covered in exchange for helping to promote the event. All opinions are 100% my own. American Girl Fashion Show is licensed from American Girl Programs. All American Girl trademarks, names, and characters are trademarks of American Girl, used under license. All rights reserved.

Disney On Ice Worlds of Fantasy--Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 18:56:00 +0000

This past December my family had the opportunity to attend Disney On Ice Celebrates 100 Years of Magic. We had so much fun!

This month, for the first time ever, Disney On Ice presents Worlds of Fantasy skates into the Twin Cities!

Rev up for non-stop fun with four of your favorite Disney stories:

Thrill to high-speed stunts as Lightning McQueen, Mater and the crew of Disney•Pixar's Cars race across the ice.
Dive into The Little Mermaid's enchanting undersea kingdom.
Enter the mystical world of Pixie Hollow with Tinker Bell and the Disney Fairies as they reveal the magic that lies within!
The toys are back in town with heroic action when Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Jessie, and the Toy Story gang escape from the rambunctious tots of Sunnyside Daycare and race for home, in their most daring adventure ever!

Disney On Ice Worlds of Fantasy will be at the Target Center February 28-March 3, 2013. Tickets are $15/22/$42/$65 with opening night tickets just $10!

Tickets are available at the Target Center Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by calling 800-745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com. To charge by phone using Ticketmaster TDD/TTY, call 800-359-2525. Certain fees may apply.

All of our Toys In The Dryer readers may download this FREE activity book!

One lucky reader will win tickets to Disney On Ice Worlds of Fantasy opening night at the Target Center!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

We received tickets to the show in exchange for promoting it on our blog. We received no further compensation. All opinions are 100% our own.

Casting call! Be an EXTRA in a Nickelodeon Universe TV commerical at MOA

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Sat, 02 Feb 2013 04:03:00 +0000

Mall of America^® to award one lucky contestant a cameo appearance in new Nickelodeon Universe^® television commercial

WHAT: On Feb. 8, Mall of America^® will select one talented contestant from a pool of video entries to become the first-ever fan to make a cameo appearance in a Nickelodeon Universe^® television commercial.

Beginning Jan. 31, Nickelodeon fans across the nation have the opportunity to submit a 30 second video showcasing why they would make the best Scream Collector extra in a commercial. Fans who are eligible to enter the contest will submit their video online by visiting www.NickelodeonUniverse.com.

Each video submission will be judged on the following five criteria:

creativity
how well the submission reflects the theme and meets other specified requirements
video reflects a clear and positive message
personality
originality

and will be judged by qualified Mall marketing and advertising experts. To enter the contest and for more information visit www.NickelodeonUniverse.com.

WHEN: Contest start date: Thursday, Jan. 31
Contest end date: Thursday, Feb. 7

WHERE: www.NickelodeonUniverse.com – video submissions
Mall of America – commercial filming

What are you waiting for? Go submit your video!

Minneapolis Boat Show--Ticket Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Sat, 12 Jan 2013 21:47:00 +0000

Nautical Fun for the Whole Family at the

2013 Progressive Insurance Minneapolis Boat Show

Kids of all ages can mingle with MTV stars, scuba dive, paddleboard indoors, plus peruse and build boating LEGOS®

The 2013 Progressive Insurance Minneapolis Boat Show cruises into the Minneapolis Convention Center, January 31-February 3, with summer fun for the entire family featuring new exhibits and attractions for the little skippers, experienced captains, and everyone in between. Escape the winter chill and dive into summer with fun for the entire family. Special features sure to thrill the kids include:

Hop in the water and try SCUBA diving!

Try SCUBA diving indoors at the ‘Be a Diver’ pool. Discover the fun and exciting sport of SCUBA diving with certified instructors in the comfort of a tropically warm pool and test the latest diving equipment (ages 10 and older).

Visit LEGO’S® new Brickmania boating display.

Kids of all ages can check out boats made from LEGO® brand parts at the show and build some of their own to Take home. Also, don’t miss the chance to purchase a limited edition boat show Brickmania Custom Boat LEGO® kit (Lobby E).

Get on the water at PaddleFest.

Kids ages 10 and older can try out kayaks and Stand Up Paddleboards (SUP) in a huge pool on the show floor with knowledgeable staff on-hand to offer instruction.

Meet professional wake boarders Phil and Bob Soven from MTV’s reality show, WakeBrothers.
Phil has been well known in the wakeboard circuit since he went pro at the age of eleven and is labeled as one of the best in the world. Bob, the younger brother, had five National wake boarding titles and six World titles by the age of 15. Visit the show website for appearance times.

Meet SpongeBob SquarePants.

Straight from Bikini Bottom, SpongeBob SquarePants will visit the show on Saturday, February 2nd and Sunday, February 3rd from Noon–4pm to meet with his fans and take pictures.

Tickets are $11.00 for adults, children 15 and under get in FREE when accompanied by an adult.

Active Military get in FREE with a valid military ID.

Purchase a ticket online; e-ticket includes a one-year subscription to Yachting Magazine, Motor Boating, Field & Stream, Boating or Cruising World (a $7 value).

For more information and updated seminar and event schedules, visit MinneapolisBoatShow.com, or follow the show on Twitter and Facebook.

One lucky local Toys In The Dryer reader will win up to 4 tickets to the Minneapolis Boat Show!

Enter via the Rafflecopter form below. Number of tickets depends on number of children over 15 years of age.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
We received tickets to the Minneapolis Boat Show in exchange for promoting it.

IMAX Family Night--Wild Safari 3D

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Sat, 12 Jan 2013 19:43:00 +0000

The Great Clips IMAX Theatre Hosts

Family Night on Monday, January 21

$5 Admission to See Wild Safari 3D and Free Sandwiches from SUBWAY® Restaurants

WHAT: The Great Clips IMAX Theatre at the Minnesota Zoo has teamed up with SUBWAY® Restaurants for Family Night on Monday, January 21. Tickets are just $5 for both adult and children which includes admission to Wild Safari 3D and complementary SUBWAY® sandwiches and beverages from Pepsi & Sam’s Club of Apple Valley (while supplies last) before the show.

WHEN: Monday, January 21
5:30 PM: SUBWAY® sandwiches, beverages from Pepsi & Sam’s Club of Apple Valley will be in the lobby (while supplies last).
6:30 PM: Wild Safari 3D, begins on Minnesota’s largest screen

COST: $5 adults and children

WHERE: The Great Clips IMAX Theatre at the Minnesota Zoo
12000 Zoo Blvd
Apple Valley, MN
imax.com/minnesota

MORE: In the ultimate real-life adventure takes place on the giant screen with Wild Safari 3D: A South African Adventure, Africa’s most exciting animals, the elephant, the Cape buffalo, the rhino, the leopard and the lion, known as the “Big Five” have long been considered the continent’s most dangerous animals. Smashing the boundaries for the giant screen, nWave Pictures creates a new cinematic experience for viewers in putting them in the passenger seat for a South African safari using state-of-the art live-action 3D cinematography. The 550-seat Great Clips IMAX Theatre is the finest movie theatre in the Midwest. The theatre shows films created in the world's most advanced film formats, IMAX, IMAX 3D and IMAX DMR. IMAX with each film frame ten times larger than 35mm film and triple the size of standard 70mm. The Great Clips IMAX Theatre at the Minnesota Zoo features the largest screen in the Upper Midwest, measuring 63 by 86 feet, equivalent to over six stories high.

New Year's Eve at the Mall of America®

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Thu, 27 Dec 2012 17:49:00 +0000

Mall of America^® will rock in the New Year with Rock the Universe: New Year’s Eve Celebration

WHAT: Guests are going to party like it’s 2013 at Mall of America^® on New Year’s Eve with a family friendly party, Rock the Universe: New Year’s Eve Celebration in Nickelodeon Universe^®.

Mall guests are invited to ring in the New Year with the School of Rock Road Crew for a family New Year’s Eve celebration complete with live music, dancing, party favors and a family ball drop at 10 p.m.

Other activities include:

Rockin’ Red Carpet with free photo, rock hair and airbrush tattoos, make your own music video and Nickelodeon character meet and greets.
A New Year’s Eve Unlimited Ride Wristband is $29.99.
Purchase any ride ticket after 6 p.m. and receive free 2013 glasses – perfect for rocking in the New Year.

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 31, 2012
6pm-Midnight

WHERE: Mall of America – Nickelodeon Universe

For official event guidelines, visit www.mallofamerica.com/events

Hallmark Recordable Storybook Review and Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 16:39:00 +0000

How often do you read to your children? How often do your relatives read to your children? Do you ever wish you (or someone else) could read to them even when you are not around? You can with Hallmark's Recordable Storybooks!

I wish I would have recorded a book for my girls when I worked the evening shift. It would have been nice to "read them a bedtime story" even though I wasn't there to put them to bed. These books are perfect for those times when you can't be there in person!

This year Hallmark introduces two new Disney books to their awesome collection of recordable storybooks! Lindsi and I were given the opportunity to review them...

Jamie--I reviewed "The Wish My Heart Makes For You". I have to admit, I thought it was going to be the story of Cinderella because it had Cinderella's name and picture on the front of the book. I was surprised to see that it was a completely different story line with Cinderella's photos. My girls didn't seem to notice though. They just had fun listening to the book and looking at the photos. Here's their very first look at the book recorded by my Husband for them.
Though it was a bit annoying to listen to the directions every time you record a new page, we understand why they do it that way. My Husband got nervous recording the book (I don't know why) and had to do a few pages over again!
Overall, my entire family was impressed with the book and it will be a keepsake for years to come. Now to find some for the Grandparents to record for the girls...!

Lindsi reviewed "You're a Hero! All the Ways You Save the Day!". My boys thought this was a GREAT book. I am pretty sure we've listened to the story a few dozen times already. What I personally liked about this was that I was in control of how the story was read. I really got into it and added some sound effects while I recorded the story for them. I did a quick Google search for sounds related to Batman, Superman and Aquaman (and let me tell you that I didn't even know Aquaman existed). This made the book really fun for my boys and they really got a kick out of it. We've purchased a few Christmas books in the past from Hallmark and done the same thing. My favorite feature of this book was the "lock" button being safely guarded. I always feared that the kids might push the "record" button and mess up the whole thing, but the book comes with a little latch that hides the lock and unlock button behind it and it is secured with a little screw. SMART THINKING!!!

My boys really liked the story line of this book. They loved that they were encouraged to be hero's in their everyday life. What an encouraging and positive thing to share with them! I'd really encourage you to consider gifting one of these books this year. It's worth the time and effort to make a memory like this.

P.S. On a special note- we had my grandma record one of these books for each one of my children a few months before she passed away and it is something we truly treasure! The kids love being able to hear Grandma Glory's voice whenever they want.

One lucky Toys In The Dryer reader will win a Hallmark Recordable Storybook!

You choose between either "The Wish My Heart Makes for You" or "You're A Hero!"

a Rafflecopter giveaway Both Lindsi and I received a book for our review. We received no other compensation. The thoughts and opinions in this post are 100% our own.

Macy's Holiday Makeover Event Recap

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Thu, 06 Dec 2012 18:15:00 +0000

A few weeks ago we had the fabulous opportunity to co-host a Macy's Holiday Makeover Event with Macy's Southdale and Stacie Sayz So. We had an awesome turn-out and fun was had by all! Unfortunately, Lindsi's son fell and hit his head right before the event so she spent the evening in the ER with him getting stitches. He was ok, but she was totally bummed (and so were Stacie and I) that she missed the event!

Attendees of the Macy's Holiday Makeover Event were treated to 5 minute makeovers where they learned quick ways to do their makeup during the busy Holiday season. In addition, Blvgari Fragrances provided a mini workshop on finding your perfect fragrance. Mine happened to be the Jasmin Noir (which my husband also liked when I got home).
Here I am getting my make up done at the Estee Lauder counter. It was so fun to be treated like a queen and to learn what I'm doing right (and wrong) with my make up.
While attendees waited for their makeovers, they snacked on mini deserts (those little pie things were YUMMY!), socialized, and listened to music provided by a DJ. It was perfect for a girls night out! After their 5 minute makeovers, guests were given the opportunity to get a professional head shot. Above is me, Stacie, and the two winners of our walking model contest, Beth and Pam. Aren't they all beautiful?! I must say, this event was just as much fun to host as it was to attend! I can't wait till we can host another one! Thanks so much to Hannah, the cosmetics manager at Macy's Southdale, for giving us the opportunity to co-host the Macy's Holiday Makeover Event!
On a related note, I wanted to do something a little extra special for the hosts and winners to make them stand out from the crowd. I sent out a tweet asking if any flower shops in the Cities would be willing to make 6 corsages in exchange for social media shout-outs. Sweet Peas Floral in Woodbury jumped at the opportunity as they are just starting to branch out into the social media world. They made these beautiful corsages for us to wear (see mine on my shirt and Hannah's on her wrist in the top photo). Thanks so much Sweet Peas!
Please check them out on their website, Facebook, and Pinterest!

Photos With Santa at the Mall of America®

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Tue, 27 Nov 2012 18:07:00 +0000

A few weeks ago we announced Santa's arrival a the Mall of America®. Have you been there to see him yet?

The opening ceremony was a ton of fun! Unfortunately my camera ran out of batteries so I had to use my cell phone for photos. At lease I had my cell phone for back up!

Now it's time to get your annual photos with Santa!

Photos with Santa presented by Columbia

Mall of America has the perfect place to pose for photos with Santa and share a holiday wish list. Mall guests have more ways to visit Santa this year:

1) Schedule an appointment: For busy families, you can schedule an appointment to visit Santa at The Santa Experience! Appointments will be available daily through Dec. 24 and will be located on Level 1, South next to Macy’s. To book an appointment, guests can visit www.professorbellows.com. Presented by Professor Bellows Specialty Photography

Through Dec. 24

Level 1, West (next to Macy’s)

2) Visit Santa at your convenience: Guests can stop by to visit Santa in the West Entrance to Nickelodeon Universe, through December 24, no appointment necessary. Share your holiday wishes with Santa and purchase great photo packages and other holiday merchandise. Visit http://www.mallofamerica.com/upload/event/pdf/Santa_Hours.pdf for the daily schedule, including breaks. Presented by Columbia, Country Inn & Suites and Kodak

Through Dec. 24

Level 1, West entrance to Nickelodeon Universe®

Pet Photos with Santa

Guests can bring their pets to Mall of America to have their photo taken with Santa. Pets of all kinds are welcome to take part in this photo opportunity with their loving owners and Santa.

Sunday, December 2 7 – 9:30 p.m.

The Santa Experience (Level 1, Next to Macy’s)

Minnesota Vikings players to host pop-up ticket giveaway at Mall of America®

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Tue, 27 Nov 2012 17:26:00 +0000

Have you taken your family to a Minnesota Vikings game yet? If not, here's a fun way to get FREE tickets!!

WHAT: The Minnesota Vikings and Mall of America® have teamed up to bring Mall guests and Vikings buffs the ultimate fan experience though social media. On Nov. 28 Minnesota Vikings players Chris Kluwe, Blair Walsh and Cullen Loeffler will be at MOA™ to give away 500 Vikings football game tickets to the first 250 fans who find them. Leading up to the event, Kluwe and Walsh will use their Twitter accounts to give clues to a secret location where they will greet and give away the tickets to lucky fans and followers.

After three successful pop-up giveaways with the Minnesota Vikings this season, Kluwe, Walsh and Loeffler will conclude the promotion with the fourth and final surprise ticket giveaway at MOA. Guests interested in attending can follow Chris Kluwe (@ChrisWarcraft), Blair Walsh (@BlairWalsh3), Minnesota Vikings (@VikingsFootball) and Mall of America (@mallofamerica) on Twitter for up-to-date information on the pop-up event.

WHEN: Wednesday, Nov. 28
5:30 – 7 p.m.

WHERE: Mall of America – Various locations

Walk to End Hunger at the Mall of America

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Tue, 20 Nov 2012 16:11:00 +0000

Give back before giving thanks: Walk to End Hunger at Mall of America^® on Thanksgiving morning

WHAT: Looking for a guilt-free way to enjoy that second helping of cheesy potato casserole? Get your walking shoes on and head out to Mall of America^® on Thanksgiving morning to the fifth annual Walk to End Hunger. One in five families in the Twin Cities with children is struggling to put food on the table. Give back before you give thanks this year!

Thousands of walkers are expected at Walk to End Hunger, a fun, family-friendly 5K walk presented by Greater Twin Cities United Way and The Mosaic Company. The event’s goal is to raise awareness of hunger issues facing thousands of Twin Cities residents, while raising funds (goal is $325,000) to help support the 12 partner hunger relief organizations that work together to eliminate hunger in the Twin Cities metro area. Since its inception in 2008, the Walk to End Hunger has raised nearly $900,000.

The Walk to End Hunger is a fun non-profit event that has become a Twin Cities Thanksgiving tradition. Register to walk, donate or sponsor a team at www.walktoendhunger.org.

For official event guidelines, visit www.mallofamerica.com/events.

WHEN: Thursday, Nov. 22, 2012

7:00 a.m. – Registration

7:15 a.m. – Walk Program, remarks by Senator Klobuchar and sponsor representatives

7:30 – 10:00 a.m. The Walk: Courtyard activities, musical entertainment, Santa visits in West Market Square and free Swings and Carousel rides

WHERE: Mall of America – Level 1

Disney On Ice Celebrates 100 Years of Magic--Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Tue, 20 Nov 2012 02:27:00 +0000

I don't know about your kids, but mine LOVE Disney movies!! We went to a Disney on Ice show a few years ago and they thought it was so much fun to see their favorite characters come to life.

This year, Disney On Ice Celebrates 100 Years of Magic comes to the Excel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota.

My girls can't wait to go! They get to see 65 of their favorite Disney characters from 18 ~~repeatedly seen~~ movies skate around on the ice. Though they are excited to see Mickey and Minnie, Nemo, The Lion King characters, and Pinocchio, they are most thrilled that they will get to see all the princesses live!

Disney On Ice Celebrates 100 Years of Magic will be at the Excel Energy Center on December 6-9, 2012.

Tickets are $18 / $24 / $46 / $69 – With Opening Night Tickets Just $11!

Tickets are available at the Xcel Energy Center Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by calling 800-745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com. To charge by phone using Ticketmaster TDD/TTY, call 800-359-2525. Certain fees may apply. (Groups 12+ call 651-312-3486)

One lucky Toys In The Dryer reader will win a family 4-pack of tickets to opening night!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway We each received a family 4-pack of tickets to this event in exchange for it's promotion. All opinions are our own.

The Voice of SongeBob SquarePants at the Mall of America

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Fri, 16 Nov 2012 17:41:00 +0000

The voice of Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants,

Tom Kenny,

to perform at Mall of America® with live band The Hi-Seas

WHAT: Tom Kenny, the voice of the iconic and beloved Nickelodeon SpongeBob SquarePants character, will be at Mall of America® Saturday, Nov. 24 at 1:00 p.m. with his band, The Hi-Seas, for a special holiday performance and advance screening of “It’s a SpongeBob Christmas!” on the Patio.

SpongeBob and The Hi-Seas band is a high energy full-piece band bringing music from Bikini Bottom to life and delighting audiences with tunes from the Nickelodeon hit animated series “SpongeBob SquarePants” and “It’s a SpongeBob Christmas!” holiday album, featuring 11 new songs.

In addition to the musical performance, there will be an advance screening of the new stop-motion animated Christmas special, “It’s a SpongeBob Christmas!” premiering on Nickelodeon Dec. 9.

In addition to voicing the lead role of SpongeBob in “SpongeBob SquarePants,” Tom Kenny is also familiar to Nick viewers as the voices of Dog on “CatDog” and Heffer on “Rocko’s Modern Life.”

For official event guidelines, visit www.mallofamerica.com/events.

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 24, 2012
1 – 2:00 p.m. SpongeBob and Patrick photo opportunity
2 – 2:30 p.m. Performance by SpongeBob and The Hi-Seas
2:30 – 3:00 “It’s a SpongeBob Christmas!” screening

WHERE: Mall of America – The Patio

IMAX Family Night--Under The Sea in 3D

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie H) — Fri, 16 Nov 2012 17:25:00 +0000

FREE CHILD ADMISSION TO UNDER THE SEA IN 3D

IMAX Family Night - Monday, November 19th – Great Clips IMAX Theatre

WHAT: The Great Clips IMAX Theatre has teamed up with Las Tortillas in Rosemount, Sam’s Club and Pepsi for Family Night. Guests that purchase one adult admission to the 6:30 p.m. showing of Under the Sea in 3D will receive one free child’s admission to the movie and complimentary snack and beverage (while supplies last) before the show.

WHEN: Monday, November 19th Las Tortillas tacos and beverages provided by Sam’s Club and Pepsi will be served starting at 5:30 p.m. in the lobby (while supplies last).
Under the Sea in 3D begins at 6:30 p.m. on Minnesota’s largest screen.

COST: $9.75 for Adults
Free admission for kids with paid adult

WHERE: The Great Clips IMAX Theatre at the Minnesota Zoo – Minnesota’s largest screen
12000 Zoo Boulevard in Apple Valley, Minn.

ABOUT: Under The Sea in 3D will transport you to some of the most exotic and isolated undersea locations on Earth including Southern Australia, New Guinea and others in the Indo-Pacific region, allowing you to experience face-to-face encounters with some of the most mysterious and stunning creatures of the sea. It offers a uniquely inspirational and entertaining way to explore the impact global climate change has had on ocean wilderness. Be immersed in the underwater world with the Australian Sea Lion, Crocodilefish, Leafy Sea Dragon, the Lionfish and more.