Resourceful Mommy

LATCH Cross Country Blog Tour

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 17:44:00 +0000

The holiday season is solidly upon us, and if your family is like mine, you're currently getting ready to travel to see family for Christmas. Whether you’re driving across the country to visit family or across town to holiday shop, it is important that your child passengers are riding safely and that child safety seats are used correctly.

AAA estimated that 30 million people travelled this Thanksgiving holiday alone, and for many this is just the beginning of the holiday hustle and bustle. Now is the time to utilize the Child Car Safety tools provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Ad Council to learn more about proper car seat use and installation. You will find informative resources that include instructional videos.
Have child passenger safety questions that you need answered before you travel over the river and through the woods to Grandma’s? NHTSA is always available to answer your questions online through Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/childpassengersafety) and Twitter (http://twitter.com/childseatsafety).

The Global Influence Network has been driving home the importance of child passenger safety this holiday season and year round with a LATCH cross country blog tour. We're wrapping things up back on the east coast - here in Washington, DC! I hope that you'll take a moment in this busy time and learn more about how to keep your children safe while travelling in the car.

Happy Holidays and safe driving!

Book Review and Giveaway: Close Encounters of the Third Grade Kind

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 23:38:00 +0000

I originally intended on writing about Close Encounters of the Third Grade Kind: Thoughts on Teacherhood, as a holiday teacher gift idea, but the more I thought about it, the more I realized that this makes the perfect end of year gift. I hope you bought your child's teacher something food related for the holidays - that's what they really need this time of year. However, by the end of the year, teachers are able to see the light at the end of the tunnel (summer!) and reflect with a sense of humor on the year passed. When that time comes, please keep Close Encounters of the Third Grade Kind in mind for the perfect gift.

Author Phillip Done writes with a gentle sense of humor about the little nuances of teacherhood that ring true for any teacher who reads his words. As a former English teacher, I especially loved his commentary on "The Intercom." Spending your adult days inside a classroom with a gaggle of other people's children is bizarre to begin with, but those unique aspects of daily life - like the fact that your thoughts may be interrupted at any time by a bodiless voice coming from a box somewhere else in the building - make it all the more interesting. When a teacher hears that unmistakable click/beep before an announcement, they are never sure what monkey wrench will be thrown into their carefully planned class.

I also especially enjoyed the chapter titled "Gifts." When I moved from teaching private school to public, I knew that the gravy train was probably going to end, and I was okay with that. How many teacher mugs, after all, does a non-coffee drinking 23 year old really need? I was surprised, however, to learn how much more the rare gift meant to me. My personal favorite was the year that an 8th grader who I taught two years earlier in 6th grade stopped by a couple days before winter break. He came in with a 12 pack of Diet Dr. Pepper. "I was shopping with my mom and thought of you. You drank one every day during 1st period. I hope you still drink these. Merry Christmas." That one still makes me tear up just thinking about a student remembering me fondly. Who knew they did that?

If you'd like to learn more about Close Encounters of the Third-Grade Kind by Phillip Done, please check out the Center Street Publishing author page.

If you'd like to win a copy to give to a special teacher in your life, here's your chance! FOUR winners will each receive one copy of Close Encounters of the Third-Grade Kind. This contest is open to all legal U.S. residents and ends 11:59 p.m. EST January 1st, 2010.

To Enter:

-Leave a comment telling me what teacher most inspired you or changed your life in some way. Feel free to share as much as you'd like or as little as a name.

Good luck, raise your pencils, and you may begin......now!

#TheOnlineMom Twitter Party Tonight!

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 17:46:00 +0000

Join us tonight as we tweet with @TheOnlineMom during an important and informative Twitter event. We will be partying from 8:00 to 9:00 p.m. EST tonight! with the hashtag #TheOnlineMom.

Topic: How old does my child need to be...

1. Before he can play videogames

2. Before she gets a cell phone

3. For a Facebook Account

4. For Club Penguin and Webkinz

5. For educational sites

6. To get her own computer?

7. They need to be to have a Facebook account?

Join us to find the answers you're looking for!
Plus, recommendations on great tech gifts for the Holidays!!
And be sure you're signed up for a chance to win a brand new SONY E-READER!!
DOOR PRIZES include some popular video games.
(You must RSVP to participate and be entered in the prize drawing.)

To RSVP:
Email: RSVP@TheOnlineMom.com
Sign-up for The Online Mom Newsletter at http://theonlinemom.com/join.asp (optional)
Spread the word and RT this link on your Twitter feed: http://tinyurl.com/y9us5ru
Tweet anytime Thursday until 10pm EST and join us on Tweetchat or Tweetgrid #theonlinemom to participate in the discussion.
WINNERS will be announced at 8:59PM Tuesday, December 22th!
. . . . .
You can also send questions about how technology is affecting your kids in an e-mail to The Online Mom and they'll get back to you within 48 hours. All questions will be treated as confidential. Contact The Online Mom today monica_vila@theonlinemom.com

Tweet you tonight!

I Have a Crush on Sprig Toys

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 02:20:00 +0000

I first tweeted with Sprig Toys representatives in the weeks leading up to the Type-A Mom Conference last September. They were corporate sponsors, which right out of the gate made me like them. Any company - especially one on the smaller side - that invests in the mom blogging community deserves at least a second glance. Their company reps are also hilarious, nice, completely down-to-earth. For me, that was win number two. But still....I had to see their products to form a decision beyond "they hire nice people." After all, nice doesn't mean the kids will like it.

When I actually had a chance to try and see and touch Sprig Toys, I was blown away. I had the opportunity to test the Adventure Series because the speakers received a small sample product in their swag bags, and I won the drawing for the Dino Adventure Rig. My three year old went crazy over this toy to the point that he didn't seem to mind that I had just been away for the weekend or care that I had returned. Two other products that particularly impressed me were the Discover Rig, which is an non-battery powered electronic toy that runs on kid power, and the Story Builders, which bring children's stories to life in a very three-dimensional, tactile way.

I understand that I may have lost you at "non-battery powered electronic toy that runs on kid power," but if you're still with me, hang on because it gets better.

All of Sprig Toys products are kid-powered, even those with moving, electronic parts. They're also made of eco-friendly Sprigwood, which is actually comprised of reclaimed wood mixed with recycled plastic. The result is this really amazingly textured material that is super kid-friendly and kid-safe.

Have you heard enough and would like to know where to purchase Sprig Toys? I'm fortunate enough to live in a town with an independent toy store that has already figured out how great Sprig Toys are and now stocks them just a couple of miles from my home! You could either move in with me to be near a Sprig Toys dealer, or you could choose one of the following options:

purchase Sprig Toys online

search for a retailer near you

I'm sure that once you get to know Sprig Toys, you'll fall in love, too. But just remember - I saw 'em first.

Open Letter to Traditional Media

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 21:23:00 +0000

Dear Members of the Traditional Media,

There's something I've been meaning to talk to you about for some time. Lately when I pick up my favorite magazine, turn on the news, or check out the e-version of the newspaper - because let's face it, no one is buying the print copy - I've noticed that old media has begun to look quite a lot like new media. I'm not so sure I like this. Let me explain...

I am a blogger. I do not get paid for writing, but instead write because it is a release, a pleasure, a hobby, and yes, sometimes leads to paid opportunities. But it is not a job, per say. Should I continue to write, but not pursue other means of earning money, I would simply have no money. There's no editor or producer turning in my time sheet at the end of the week.

You, on the other hand, are an employee of an organization. You may even call yourself a journalist. Bravo. Good form. Nice title. But here's the thing...many of you are acting like bloggers.

Exhibit A: Sketchy Drawings

As you've clearly noticed around the blogosphere, those of us in new media enjoy avatars. You're likely to find what appears to be hand drawn butterflies or hearts in a blogger's header or more often than not, a cartoon version of a mom, frustrated by laundry, sipping coffee, or looking up from her laptop. As a community, the bloggiverse has begun to move away from these cartoon creations, which may explain why they're now cropping up in print media and news sites. I can be tolerant - really I can - but if I see an Al Roker Manga, I'm turning off the tv for good.

Exhibit B: Social Situation

You've joined Twitter, you have a Facebook page devoted to fans of your show, and you may even use Friend Feed. I guess once Oprah jumped in the pool, the tidal wave that followed was to be expected. Bloggers knew we couldn't have social media to ourselves forever. But might I suggest you actually be, well, social? As much as you enjoy tweeting, "Working on a piece for the 6 o'clock news," we don't so much enjoy reading those tweets. Spice it up a bit! Tell us that the weather guy stands on a crate to do his segments because he's really 5'2". Complain about that bi-atch who sits next to you at the news desk. Post a candid picture of yourself on Facebook instead of just your headshot. We understand you've got the "media" part down, so go ahead and mix in a little social please.

Exhibit C: Three Strikethroughs and You're Out

I went to my local news' website for a news update only to find a snarky piece about the snowstorm filled with amusing quips and clever little bloggy-isms like a strikethrough over the word snowstorm to replace the word with blizzard. Have you discovered Wordpress? I bet that's fun for you! We like it, too! But let us handle the guffaws, please. We've been doing it for much longer and it is far more appropriate. I really can't handle an emoticon in a piece about the five car pile-up on the interstate....

So you just can't walk away? I understand - we are a pretty fun group. Maybe the best thing to do is to try to emulate the blogging community in ways that will help your branch of the media.

Suggestion 1: Research and Investigate

A recent story about a mom and Twitter flew through the traditional media world faster than the Balloon Boy's UFO in the thin Colorado air. While heavy hitters like CNN used a single source as their "man on the scene," the blogging community looked on in horror. You know what we did next? We spent five whole minutes researching the source only to find a trail of questionable attention-seeking behaviors as well as the source's real name. Some of the most thorough investigative research, in fact, comes from the blogging community. Kelby Carr, for example, founded a group of investigative mom bloggers and sent us out into our communities to document shopping cart violations at major stores across the country. I understand that the media is currently undergoing a budget crisis, but if bloggers can get the job done right with a budget of zero, perhaps a bit more effort on your part is possible.

Suggestion 2: Regurgitation Nation - How 'Bout Some Original Content

I love a good editorial outreach. I've received countless e-mails from PR firms with "did you know that" messages that I truly believed were worth passing on to my readers. But sprinkled in heavily among those posts you'll find original content that I have conceptualized and written...originally...by myself. Returning to the example above of the recent story of the Twittering mom, the same story appeared from New York City to Australia because it was picked up off the wire and pushed out to mass media. Unfortunately, it was rife with inaccuracies. Is that really the content that you believe will bring you back from the brink of extinction? Perhaps you ought to rethink that.

In conclusion, I'm sure that we can happily co-exist. Yes, as a whole, you've been more than a bit dismissive of us, but we can see from this copy-cat behavior that really you've got a little media crush on us. Maybe just move away from this "punch her to show her you like her" third grade behavior?

And if you have a tough time assimilating the tips I've listed above, there is always a simple solution - you could hire a blogger.

Yours truly,

Amy

p.s. Please don't write something mean about me now. Thanks.

HP Photosmart Premium Touchsmart Web AiO Giveaway!

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 20:29:00 +0000

For the last several weeks my family has been enjoying the HP Touchsmart Web Printer. HP gave us the printer so that we could test it out and record our reactions. After some time enjoying the Wi-Fi access to print coupons, photos, and coloring pages from Nickelodeon, Disney, and more, a film crew came to our house to film what can only be described as a web commercial. While our film is still in the editing process, you can get an idea of the project based on Sugar Jones' awesome video:

While this lets you know a bit about what the HP Photosmart Printer can do, it just wasn't enough for me to tell you, or even to show you. I also wanted to give you the printer to test for yourself.

That's right - HP is giving one of you this very printer.

One winner will receive the HP Photosmart Premium with Touchsmart Web AiO (aka the HP Web Printer)! Excited? Wait until you hear what this baby can do....

- Touch the Web and print Web content, photos, and documents via a large touchscreen with the world's first Web-connected home printer
- Print Web content like movie tickets, coupons, maps, recipes, and puzzles right from the HP TouchSmart screen, no PC needed.
- Print checklists, fax cover pages, and notebook paper, and other forms and templates using Quick Forms

- Save time: directly access photos on Snapfish.com without turning on your PC
- Edit and print photos, send faxes, scan photos for reprinting, make copies, and print from the Web—without a PC—using the spacious screen

- Simplify photo printing with the automatic photo trays
- Print photos directly from mobile phones and other Bluetooth-enabled devices5, or an iPhone or iPod touch

- Print from virtually anywhere in your home—share the printer with other Wi-Fi-enabled PC

- Save energy with this ENERGY STAR® qualified printer, which is more than 10% more energy-efficient than a standard model

To enter to win, please leave a comment telling me what you will print if you win the HP TouchSmart Web Printer. Do your kids love Disney coloring pages, but you worry about letting them use the internet on your work computer? Do you think about coupons while you're in the kitchen, but never get around to printing them out when you are in the computer room? Let me know!

Want bonus entries?

- Follow @ResourcefulMom on Twitter and comment here

- Subscribe to Resourceful Mommy and comment here

- Become a fan of Resourceful Mommy on Facebook and comment here

This contest is open to all legal U.S. residents and ends at 11:59 p.m. EST on Christmas Day. Maximum four entries per entrant, please. For more rules, please read the fine print below.

Good luck and Happy Holidays!

HP Photosmart Premium Touchsmart Web AiO Sweepstakes. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY & PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE CHANCE OF WINNING. OPEN TO LEGAL RESIDENTS OF 50 UNITED STATES, & THE DC, 18 YEARS OLD. Void in Puerto Rico, U.S. territories, possessions and where prohibited by law. Employees of Sponsor, Prize Provider, its subsidiaries, affiliates, their immediate family and household members not eligible. Entry constitutes agreement to rules & Sponsor’s decisions. Participants enter to win by completing the steps listed in the post above. Winner chosen by random drawing on or after December 25th at 11:59 p.m. EST as determined by the organizers of the event. Prize: One (1) HP Photosmart Premium Touchsmart Web AiO (ARV $399.00) to be shipped to winner upon availabilit. No substitution, cash redemption or transfer of prizes, except in Sponsor’s discretion. Taxes are winner’s responsibility. Odds of winning depend on number of entries. Entrants release and hold harmless Sponsor, Prize Provider its subsidiaries, affiliates, and their officers, directors, employees, agents from any claim arising out of entry or prize receipt or use. Prize Provider Hewlett-Packard Company, 3000 Hanover Street, Palo Alto, CA 94304-1185.

Twitter Party Monday - Sponsored By Packetel

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 00:25:00 +0000

As a work at home mom, I work each day to balance job responsibilities and my time with my children. With only three mornings of child care each week, I have always used nap time to schedule calls. Recently I hosted a web conference for invited bloggers to connect with a government agency regarding an important cause. Thinking that a one hour chat during my child's two hour nap should be no problem, I expected a smooth call. With just minutes to go, my three year old toddled into my office, silently climbed into my lap, and then let out the biggest sigh I had ever heard....to the forty people on the call.

Packetel - home of Turbo Meeting Web Based Conferencing and Webinar platform - would like to hear your biggest conference call mishaps, phone bloopers, or even general work faux pas! Please share your funniest stories with us this Monday at the #Packetel Twitter Party:

When: Monday, December 21st from 8:00 to 9:00 p.m. EST

How: Follow hostess @ResourcefulMom - that's me! - and use the #Packetel hashtag

Prizes: TEN winners will each receive an e-gift card to Amazon.com, and two winners will receive an iPod Touch!

To Enter: Come share your funny stories and join in the conversation Monday night! Each tweet with the #Packetel hashtag is a contest entry. Want a bonus entry? RSVP below with your Twitter link (ex: http://twitter.com/ResourcefulMom) for an extra chance to win both prizes.

Tweet you soon!

RSVP Here:

Our Favorite Games - Last Minute Shopping Ideas!

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 21:20:00 +0000

As much as my kids love electronics - the apple doesn't fall far from the tree - what we love even more is sitting on the floor in front of the family room fireplace playing a game. We all love Candy Land and Chutes and Ladders, of course, but over the last year I've found some less well-known games that have made my favorites list.

If you're looking for some inexpensive and kid-pleasing gifts, you may want to consider some of those most loved in our home!

Magical Flower Garden Game This game by Ravensburger sends four of the Disney Fairies around a path collecting water droplets from a magical well. If your flower blooms first, your fairy wins! We love this game because the tiny water droplets and the blooming flowers make it a bit more interesting than a standard board game. For more information about games by Ravensburger, go to http://www.ravensburger.com/.

Kubit2Me What I love best about Kubit2Me is that it's not a board game at all - it's a soft, fuzzy cube that you toss from player to player! Our favorite version is Lil' Scholars because there are so many ways to sneak in learning and review while playing together as a family. For more information go to http://www.kubit2me.com/.

Tinkerbell Springtime in Pixie Hollow Game This game features each of the prominent Disney Fairies plus Queen Clarion. In order to win, you must collect the most fairies, and in order to collect a fairy, you must have a special three card combination. I love this game because it asks children to use strategy and critical thinking in order to decide how best to use the cards in their hand. For more information about Milton Bradley games, please visit http://www.hasbro.com/.

Curious George Super Helper! This game is fun for kids because it involves a 3-D apartment building, a ball, a die, and a plastic disc - far more exciting than just moving figures around a flat board. It's especially fun for parents because it teaches kids the value of being a helper by awarding bonus cards for completing a helper task during the game, including vowing to clean up the game at the end! We also love the Curious George Beach Game by the same company, and I have had my eye on both a Dr. Seuss and Richard Scarry game since I saw them at the Time to Play Holiday Showcase in October. To find Curious George and others, visit http://www.icandothatgames.com/.

Feed the Kitty I could write an entire post about Gamewright games, which are featured in our towns' family owned toy store, but lately this game has been our favorite. This simple game is easy enough for our three year old to play with no help, but enough fun to keep even the adults happy. After feeding the kitty, only one person will still have mice...and win! To find Feed the Kitty and other Gamewright games, go to http://www.gamewright.com/.

Perception Is The New Truth

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 00:13:00 +0000

This is a post that I have been writing and re-writing for weeks. In light of this week's events, it is time to finally hit "publish."

For those of us who work online, we've known for some time that while truth is a lovely ideal, perception is king. When we pick up "parenting" magazines in the grocery store line, we see the same DVD's "carefully chosen and recommended" that have been offered to us for review, and we can name the firm that suggested the copy and maybe even the intern. When we read "news" magazines we search the fine print to discover that informational pieces are really advertorials - stories suggested in return for ad revenue, most likely in the form of a number that would make my head spin. As bloggers we have the choice to participate in online editorial outreach - copy suggestions from these same agencies - or not. In my case, I welcome the stories that I truly find worthwhile and decline those I do not. And when I receive a product, I don't write a glowing report with glossy pictures unless it is well deserved and unless I fully disclose it on my site and in the individual post. In this way, many bloggers are already a head above traditional media when it comes to integrity, and the traditional media knows this. Perhaps this is why they continue in most cases to slam bloggers, particularly moms, at every turn.

What initially inspired this post? My first inspiration came when I walked away from a tense situation realizing that I was being asked to prove the non-existence of something that didn't exist. Sound strange? It was, and it is when I first realized that perception is the new truth, and unless I changed others perception to what I knew to be the truth, I would lose the fight. Fast forward to my recent vacation to Disney. I spent some time giving a brief interview over my Blackberry while running from our hotel room to the monorail. Why was this interview so important during what was meant to be my one week of the year away from the hustle and bustle? It was the interview when a major publication would announce to the advertising world that I invented what has become a popular marketing technique. As I slumped into my seat on the monorail and expressed my hope that the story would make it to press, my mom looked puzzled. "Doesn't everyone already know that you created that?" she asked innocently. "How could anyone else take credit for what you did?"

It's all about who is able to change their perception of the truth.. Because perception is the new truth.

Now a member of the blogging community has suffered an unimaginable and tragic loss. One person, for motives beyond what any logical person can surmise, has decided to make it her mission this holiday season to dirty the name of this grieving woman to an extent that I have never before seen. News stories as far away as Australia cry out with headlines filled with inaccuracies ranging from "Mom tweets son's death" (she did not) to "Twitter followers outraged" (we were not). Will any of these news outlets verify this information with these "outraged" Twitter followers? No. Because they all have one source and they are all simply recantations of one story.

Perception is the new truth. And it makes me sick.

Last Minute Holiday Recommendation! Timberland PRO Series

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 18:46:00 +0000

It's time I bear my sole to you. Yes, that pun was intended. You see, I have a shoe problem, and it's not what you think. Unlike many women who spend insane amounts of money on shoes, here are the three pairs that I wear 99.9% of my days.

The main issue is that I have had such bad experiences with shoes not meeting my expectations that I have just given up entirely. Another issue is that I hate, hate, hate (hate) to spend money on certain things, shoes included. Trips to Disney? You bet. An ice cream cone on a hot summer day? I'm in! Shoes that I'll hate in a couple of weeks? Meh.

Sure, I've got dress shoes that I wear to meetings, blog conferences, and speaking engagements, but they serve a very different purpose than an every day shoe. When it comes to my day to day of running to and from bus stops and pre-schools, parks and playdates, I need a shoe that can keep up with me and not kill my feet. This is why I somewhat begrudgingly said yes to reviewing the Timberland PRO Series for women - if a shoe was created for health care workers who are on their feet day in and day out, then it might be perfect for moms.

It turns out...it is perfect for moms. Timeberland sent me a red pair of the Renova Professional Series Slip On's shown here:

At $100 a pair, purchasing these shoes is an investment. In fact, the last time I spent $100 on one pair of shoes was when I purchased Doc Martens in college (I still wear them to do yard work, by the way. That's what happens when you buy good things...they last). So what do you receive for your investment? For starters, there's a 30 Day Comfort Guarantee. If you find in the first 30 days after purchasing your shoes that they do not meet your comfort needs, you can return them for a full refund. There's a reason why Timberland is confident enough to accept a pair of worn shoes and offer a full refund. Here's the secret - they really are incredibly comfortable shoes! I'm sure it has something to do with the trouble they've gone to to provide these features:

"The PRO Series is specifically designed to deliver anti-fatigue support and all-day comfort to those who make their living helping others. The Professional Series features Timberland PRO® Anti-Fatigue technology, a rocker profile, and an anatomically shaped oblique last for all-day comfort.

Features:
- Premium full-grain leathers and microsuede upper linings offer outstanding style and durability
- 3M Scotchguard™ protector provides stain resistance (yes, moms!)
- Heel-to-toe rocker sole reduces forefoot pressure and controls proper joint motion
- Anatomically shaped, oblique toe box allows forefoot to spread, reducing fatigue
Timberland PRO® Anti-Fatigue technology offers all-day standing support, foot and leg support and superior shock absorption
- SafeGrip™ slip-resistant outsole grips wet and dry surfaces
- Bi-Fit® Tridensity footbed combines cradled heel and arch support with a flexible forefoot
- Dryz® Intellitemp™ temperature-regulating footbed cover manages moisture next to the skin while killing odors and odor-causing bacteria"

Boy, that sure does beat those flip-flops I picked up at the discount store...

If you're interested in purchasing your own pair of Timberland PRO Series shoes (beginning at $45.99 on sale now) please visit the Timberland PRO site.

NoBetterDeal.com Party - Take Two!

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 03:18:00 +0000

We had so much fun Tuesday night at the #NoBetterDeal party with @Delightful_Toni and @Chaotic_Barb that we're going to do it all again this Friday during an @ResourcefulMom Friday night Sitewarming!

Join us this Friday the 18th for a Sitewarming for NoBetterDeal.com.

When: 9:00 to 10:00 p.m. EST

Where: #NoBetterDeal

How: To participate just follow me, @ResourcefulMom, and tweet with the hashtag #NoBetterDeal.

Prizes: Not only will we be giving away $500 in gift cards to NoBetterDeal.com again, but we're also giving away a discount code to every participant AND....drumroll....an iPod Touch! To enter to win just join the party Friday night.

Want a bonus entry to win the iPod Touch? RSVP below and automatically earn a second entry.

Tweet you soon!

RSVP:

Win an HP TouchSmart 600 Desktop!

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 03:02:00 +0000

The time has come. It is time to say goodbye to what I have come to affectionately call my dinosaur desktop. While it was not purchased in the Mesozoic Era, it has been several years which means our desktop is essentially obsolete.

After much research - much research - I decided that I needed an HP TouchSmart 600. I already love the HP TouchSmart series printer and thought the two would (look great!) work well together.

I began to talk about it, tweet about it, and obsess, and sure enough I received an e-mail offering me an HP TouchSmart 600 Desktop! To give to one of YOU! What?

That's right! You've got just four days to enter to win the HP TouchSmart 600. Microsoft and HP collaborated to create best-in-class touch technology that melds the power of Windows 7 with HP's revolutionary TouchSmart PC's. The HP TouchSmart 600 showcases this technology within its sleek design, HD widescreen, BluRay, adjustable webcam and more. The multi-touch PC features motions such as pinch, rotate, arc, flick allowing users to zip through applications, photos, and more. The integrated hardware and software technology, like HDMI, audio/video inputs, Window Media Center and more, give users a range of options for viewing video, playing game consoles among other uses.

Learn more about the HP TouchSmart 600 and the Windows 7 features.

Now, on to the real fun - how to enter to win!

- To enter to win, please leave a comment telling me why you want to win the HP TouchSmart 600 desktop. It's that easy! Do you need a new desktop? Do you want to use it for ease of shuffling through photos? Do you not have space on your desktop and need the sleek design? Tell me!

Want a bonus entry? Or two or three?

- Follow @ResourcefulMom on Twitter and comment here

- Subscribe to Resourceful Mommy and comment here

- Become a fan of Resourceful Mommy on Facebook and comment here

This contest is open to all legal U.S. residents and ends at 11:59 p.m. EST on Saturday, December 19th. Maximum four entries per entrant, please.

So when you win, can I come over and play with your new computer? :) Good luck!

#Logitech Party - This Thursday

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 02:52:00 +0000

Thank you so much to everyone for understanding the need to reschedule Monday's #Logitech event in light of the loss a beloved member of the blogging community experienced. We are happy to invite you to join us this Thursday at 8:00 p.m. EST for the re-scheduled event!

Mark your calendars for another awesome Twitter party with MomSelect! This holiday bash is brought to you by a company that aims to keep families connected across the globe - Logitech. Join us as we discuss holiday gift ideas, tactics for staying in touch with faraway friends and relatives, and give away some great prizes along the way!

Logitech Twitter Party

Date: Thursday, December 17, 2009

Time: 8 p.m. - 9 p.m. EST

Location: #Logitech

Host: @MomTalkRadio (Maria Bailey, Founder of MomSelect)

Don't miss this fun-filled hour of swapping stories and gift-giving! We'll be giving away Logitech webcams and headsets that will help you stay connected all year round. My family has been using Logitech cameras for a couple of years now that we gave to family as gifts. It's a fabulous way to stay in touch and allow grandparents across the miles to see their grandkids. You even have a chance to win an incredible prize before the party starts. One lucky winner will receive a Logitech Pro 9000 and a high-performance audio headset - everything you need for the optimum Logitech experience.

Enter to win by:

- Clicking HERE to RSVP

- Tweeting out the details of the #Logitech party between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. on the day of the party.

As always, make sure you follow me, @ResourcefulMom, and @MomSelectAmy throughout the evening for updates, prize information, and contest details. Tweet you soon!

Twitter Party Tuesday Night - Great Deals, Great Prizes

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 04:48:00 +0000

This time of year, especially this year, everyone is hoping to find a good deal for the holidays. One of the best ways to pay less for the top items on your loved ones list is to shop the secondary market.

NoBetterDeal.com stocks items well below retail price in limited inventory, so acting quickly on deals is important. What's even better is that all purchases made through Tuesday are guaranteed delivery by Christmas Eve!

Check out some of the top items available now at NoBetterDeal.com below market value!

- XBox 360 Elite - $179.99

- Apple iPod Touch - $189.99

- Sony Webbie High Definition MHS-PM1/D - $119.99

- Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-W180 Silver 10.1MP - $84.99

- Sharp AQUOS 32-inch LC32D47U 720p LCD HDTV - $349.99

Ready to go shopping? Let US pay the bill! TEN winners will each receive a $50 coupon for one time use on NoBetterDeal.com.

Join us Tuesday, December 15th from 8:00 to 9:00 p.m. EST with special guest hostesses @Chaotic_Barb and @Delightful_Toni. To be eligible to win just tweet with the hashtag #NoBetterDeal during the event!

Good luck and happy shopping!

Buzzed Driving IS Drunk Driving: Twitter Event Tuesday

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 02:22:00 +0000

In college, very few of us had cars. We lived in the city, rarely went home on the weekends, and couldn't afford a place to park off campus. However, my friend K had a car from freshman year on, and we all enjoyed not having to walk home in the cold from house parties. One night junior year she had a couple of beers and gave us a ride home. At the time I thought nothing of it - a beer or two would at best have caused a buzz - but in the morning I noticed her horrendous park job and wondered what could have happened had we not driven home slowly on empty streets? This was the first time I ever considered the dangers of Buzzed Driving.

Join us Tuesday, December 15th from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. EST for a sobering discussion about #BuzzedDriving on Twitter.

Did you know that 2,000 25 to 24 year olds were killed in alcohol-impaired car crashes in 2008 because of their decision to drive after drinking? Buzzed Driving IS Drunk Driving - Help us to spread that message this holiday season by joining our discussion, learning more, sharing your stories and asking questions of the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration experts.

To participate, follow @BuzzedDriving and your hostess, me!, @ResourcefulMom and include the hashtag #BuzzedDriving in your tweets.

Want to learn more now? Visit http://buzzeddriving.adcouncil.org/ or become a fan of the Buzzed Driving IS Drunk Driving campaign on Facebook at http://tinyurl.com/BuzzedDrivingFB.

RSVP:

Holiday Recommendation: Sid the Science Kid Talkin Sid by Hasbro

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 22:48:00 +0000

When my children fall in love with a show, one of the first things I do is check online for related merchandise. I know that shortly after watching their favorite episode for the one hundredth time, someone is going to request a stuffed animal/t-shirt/CD/plastic something related to the show's characters. There are many cases - especially when the show is educational - that the accompanying products are just as exciting to mom as they are to kiddo. And then there are the sad situations where both the kids and I latch on to a new show only to find that the fun ends there.

One of our new favorite shows this year is Sid the Science Kid. My daughter has several science kits, and we are often creating impromptu experiments of our own, including last winter's fun with the cold, and this "how long will it take to melt and fall off of the straw" experiment that Emma created on the flight to Disney. All of this adds up to make Sid a welcome addition to our day.

For this reason, I was excited to hear that Hasbro launched a line of Sid the Science Kid figures. My son especially loves Sid and now carries our review copy of Sid the Science Kid Talkin Sid around the house, pressing its belly and making it say, "I've just gotta' know" and "Scientist in the house!" Sid also comes with a DVD of the episode "The Sticker Chart."

To get your own Sid the Science Kid Talkin Kid, check him out at Hasbro.com or ToysRUs.com. Don't miss the chance to get Sid for $3 off using this Playskool coupon from Coupons.com!

#Community Event Prize Update

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 16:49:00 +0000

This evening we'll be sitewarming #community member sites from 9 to 10 p.m. EST in a fun event that is all about the connections we make on Twitter and the fun we have at Resourceful Mommy Sitewarmings.

And now there is even more fun to be had! Four prizes have been added!

RSVP and check out the entire list of prizes and great sites at The #Community Party Invitation.

Tweet you soon!

Twitter Party Monday with MomSelect!

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 15:36:00 +0000

This event was cancelled this evening due to a tragedy in the blogging/Twitter community. Thank you for your patience, and please join us for our rescheduled event.

Mark your calendars for another awesome Twitter party with MomSelect! This holiday bash is brought to you by a company that aims to keep families connected across the globe - Logitech. Join us as we discuss holiday gift ideas, tactics for staying in touch with faraway friends and relatives, and give away some great prizes along the way!

Logitech Twitter Party

Date: Monday, December 14, 2009

Time: 8 p.m. - 9 p.m. EST

Location: #Logitech

Host: @MomTalkRadio (Maria Bailey, Founder of MomSelect)

Don't miss this fun-filled hour of swapping stories and gift-giving! We'll be giving away Logitech webcams and headsets that will help you stay connected all year round. My family has been using Logitech cameras for a couple of years now that we gave to family as gifts. It's a fabulous way to stay in touch and allow grandparents across the miles to see their grandkids.

You even have a chance to win an incredible prize before the party starts. One lucky winner will receive a Logitech Pro 9000 and a high-performance audio headset - everything you need for the optimum Logitech experience. Enter to win by:

- Clicking HERE to RSVP

- Tweeting out the details of the #Logitech party between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. on the day of the party

As always, make sure you follow me, @ResourcefulMom, and @MomSelectAmy throughout the evening for updates, prize information, and contest details.

Tweet you soon!

Walt Disney World Accomodations - From Bedknobs to Broomsticks

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 01:03:00 +0000

(photos: The Grand Floridian dressed for the holidays, Emma and Noah dwarfed by Mowgli at Pop Century, and our living room at the Wilderness Lodge Villas)
Last week’s vacation marked our third family trip to the World in just over a year, and my fourth trip there this year. Add that on to the two times I stayed in a Disney Resort as a child and I’ve stayed in a total of six Walt Disney World Resorts. While I am far from an expert, I think it’s safe to say that at this point I can give an educated opinion of what it’s like to live at the World during your Disney vacation....and that I have a serious Disney addiction.

Value, Moderate, Deluxe – Learn the Lingo
Walt Disney World resorts fall into three basic categories. Value resorts offer the least amount of square footage for what I really believe to be a rock bottom price – truly a value. Beginning at $82 a night during the value season, you certainly cannot beat what you receive for your dollar. Moderate resorts have a bit more space, a little more pomp and circumstance, and a price that begins at $149 a night during the value season. I have stayed at both Value and Deluxe resorts, but have yet to stay at a Moderate, so everything that I know about this class of resort comes only from what I’ve read. I do know that for many people, Moderate resorts are a favorite offering some of the glitz and glam of a Deluxe resort without the sticker shock. Deluxe resorts truly offer top of the line hotel accommodations with room size at the flagship resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, rivaling many Manhattan apartments. Prices at Deluxe resorts begin at $240 a night during the value season and go as high as $649 a night during Christmas week.

Already confused? Let’s add the Villas into the mix now. Disney’s Deluxe Villas are part of the Disney Vacation Club accommodations, but they are also available for booking as a regular hotel room by non-vacation club members. The accommodations tend to have less fancy details then a regular Deluxe room, but what they miss in frills they make up for in space and utility. With Villa choices ranging from a studio at $325 a night to the two bedroom villa at $630 that includes a living room with sleeper sofa, full kitchen, and two private bedrooms each with their own full bath, the Villas provide a great choice for large families or multiple family vacations.

As if that wasn’t enough, there are also three unique resort properties: Shades of Green, The Dolphin, and the Swan. The Swan and Dolphin are on Disney property but are owned and run by Westin. While they are not technically Disney resorts, they do have access to some Disney Resort amenities such as transportation to and from the parks, use of Disney’s Magical Express from the Orlando airport, and even character meals. Shades of Green is a resort on Walt Disney World property that is owned and operated by the U.S. Department of Defense. It is only open to active and retired members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard. Reserves, National Guard, as well as currently employed DOD civilians and U.S. Public Health Officers. Thoroughly confused? Here’s one more option! Check out Fort Wilderness Campground for those who want to combine the camping experience with their Disney World vacation! With all of these choices and price points, there is bound to be a perfect fit for every Disney guest.

My Experiences
My three year old will tell you without reservation that his favorite place to “live” at Disney is Pop Century. One of the Value resort properties, Pop Century’s larger than life portrayals of pop culture favorites ranging from Play-Doh to Big Wheels to favorite characters such as Lady and the Tramp make it a little slice of heaven for kids from three to eighty-three. Staying at a Value resort? Request an in-room mini-fridge for just an extra $10 a night, grab a quart of milk at the resort store, and eat breakfasts in your room each morning to save money. Worried about the long walk to the bus stop? The spokes on a wheel set up of the buildings helps to prevent this from being a concern, but if you’re still worried, considering paying just a bit more a night for a preferred room. We did just that for our June trip and enjoyed not only an easy walk to the main building and bus stops, but also a great view of the central pool, the Hippy Dippy. Manager Greg Chase does an amazing job of keeping this expansive resort running like a well-oiled machine, and the transportation system also serves this property very well with waits for buses to the parks never lasting longer than ten minutes during our off-season trip.

We have also enjoyed the opposite end of the spectrum by staying at the Grand Floridian, which is on the monorail system across the lagoon from the Magic Kingdom. There is no way to put a price on the value of being able to take the two minute monorail ride from your hotel to the Magic Kingdom. While we enjoyed the efficiency of Disney transportation regardless of if we were riding buses, boats, or the monorail, there is nothing easier than pushing your toddler in a stroller from your room on to the monorail and directly into the park without the need to break down the stroller for the journey. The Grand Floridian is also an incredibly stunning, yet child-friendly hotel. Nobody but Disney could make adults feel as though they are in the lap of luxury while making children feel at home. My kids in particular enjoyed the zero-entry pool and the marble characters “hidden” in the floor. More to come about the Grand Floridian…

Last year our family also had the pleasure of experiencing the Disney Deluxe Villas during our family vacation with my parents. We ordered groceries online from Garden Grocer prior to our arrival and were able to make breakfast, lunches to take into the parks, and snacks in our full kitchen. At the end of each day the kiddos went to sleep in the privacy of our own bedroom while my mom and I sat in the living room planning the next day. When my dad needed a break, he had the grandparent bedroom to escape to, and with two bathrooms, there was never any fighting…which is a lot to say when travelling with two pre-schoolers!

My fondest memories of Disney Resorts are of staying at the Polynesian when I was a child. On our most recent visit we stopped at the Polynesian to see the holiday decorations and walk around the property. Even the smells in the lobby with the beautiful flowers and waterfall were identical to my memories. I look forward to staying there on our next trip in 2010.

For more information about these resorts and all that Walt Disney World has to offer, please visit http://www.waltdisneyworld.com/.

For detailed reviews, fact sheets, and images from every Disney property, visit my favorite Disney blog, All Ears.

Through a relationship with Disney public relations, some discounts were provided during my recent stay. My family has never visited Walt Disney World on a complimentary trip and all opinions expressed are my own.

#AdoptUsKids Twitter Event Friday

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 03:31:00 +0000

Join us this Friday at 2 p.m. EST for a Twitter Party with AdoptUsKids. Ask questions about the adoption process, how to get involved, and how to learn more about the children available for adoption. Experts will be on hand to answer your questions!

Throughout the year, Adopt Us Kids is helping recruit and connect foster and adoptive families with waiting children throughout the United States. With the holidays approaching, now is a time to remember those children still hoping to find their forever family. Funded by the Children's Bureau of the Administration for Children and Families, the national photo listing website at AdoptUsKids.org contains photos and information about children in foster care. To learn more about adoption from foster care and how to help spread the word about children in care waiting for a forever family, please visit Adopt Us Kids. To search for children in your area, visit the Adopt Us Kids Child Search.

To participate:
- Tweet Friday between 2:00 and 3:00 p.m. EST with the hashtag #AdoptUsKids. New to Twitter events? Try Tweetchat.com to easily follow the discussion.
- Follow @PerfectParent and @ResourcefulMom

Let us know you'll be joining us! You are not required to RSVP to participate, but feel free to sign up now for Friday's event.

RSVP Here:

This campaign is brought to you by the Global Influence Network

Join the #Community This Friday

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 03:09:00 +0000

Please join us this Friday night at 9:00 p.m. EST for a #Community Twitter party. With the holiday season now in full swing, we'd like to take an hour to give back to the blogging and tweeting community who comes out to support Sitewarmings and the wonderful sponsors each week. Get to know a little bit about each featured blog and site, and please be sure to visit and consider subscribing! Then join us Friday night by tweeting with the hashtag #Community between the hours of 9:00 and 10:00 p.m. EST.

New to Twitter parties? Try Tweetchat.com! The "chat room" forum is very user-friendly and the setting allow you to control the speed of the messages. As always, be sure to follow your hostess @ResourcefulMom for great prizes and also watch @slpowell for fun conversation starters!

Thanks to GO MOM! Inc. for donating the all new DIY GO MOM! Planner to five lucky party attendees. Celebrating 10 years in business in 2010, GO MOM! Inc. is proud to be every Mom's brand, offering truly useful scheduling and organizing solutions through innovative products and services. They promise to help Moms make positive mothering a daily reality through educating them not only about their offerings, but how to personalize solutions for their own family and actually make their products work to improve the chaos in their every day lives. Visit http://www.gomominc.com/ to learn more, and join us this Friday to enter to win the new DIY GO MOM! Planner.

Totally downloadable, the GO MOM! Planner is a PDF version of your favorite GO MOM! Planner previously sold at Target, Barnes & Noble, OfficeMax and more. Designed to bring out the Do It Yourself maven in us all, you'll have the trusted planner you need now ready to assemble in the binding you prefer later. Their DIY Planner includes Monthly and Weekly Calendars and 22 Resource pages designed to keep you on top of the details so you can stay focused on the fun! Created by Molly Gold, President & Founder of GO MOM! Inc. and nationally recognized family time management and home organization expert.

Prize Update! Thank you to MomSelect for donating a Logitech Webcam and a copy of Maria Bailey's Ultimate Mom book!

Meet the Bloggers

- Dr. Judy Masucci is a mom to one beautiful boy and a business owner. She has a Ph.D. in Genetics from her previous "life" as a Scientist. She lives in Pennsylvania just north of Pittsburgh where she operates a maternity and breastfeeding boutique (A Mother's Boutique) and writes about parenting and breastfeeding on her blog Mommy News and Views. In addition, Judy is also the exclusive North American distributor (wholesale and retail) for the Annee Matthew Maternity & Nursing Line. She is passionate about breastfeeding and helping new mothers to be successful with breastfeeding their children.

- Prizes Donated:
1. Pashmina Shawl - made from pashmina cashmere, these shawls are luxurious! They can be worn to complement any dress and can also be used as a fashionable nursing cover for breastfeeding moms. Winner will get to choose color - choices can be seen at Mother's Boutique.
2. Ribbon Rouche Nursing Top in winners choice of size and color - can be seen at Mother's Boutique.
3. A $25 gift certificate to Mother's Boutique.

- Andrea is a stay-at-home mom to two active little boys. She blogs at Moody Mama Says and likes to write about products that she finds and loves. She also likes to share tidbits about her family life and is a self-proclaimed internet addict! She especially loves social networking, entering giveaways, and playing along at our weekly Sitewarmings and other special Twitter events. Andrea enjoys meeting new people and has met many wonderful people online - and you're next!

- Prizes Donated:
1. Andrea has donated a scenteriffic Scentsy plug-in warmer and wax bar.

- Sandy from Organize with Sandy is a professional organizer and helping people to organize their homes along with running her site is her primary profession. She runs a blog called Organize with Sandy and also a review blog of mostly organizing products called Organize with Sandy Reviews. She sells an organizing product that she found and loves called the Pouchee Purse Organizer (editor's note: I love it, too!), so that is another of Sandy's blogs. Sandy, however, wears many hats! She is also a pediatric nurse, and mom and step mom to 8 children from ages 26 down to 8 year old triplets. Recently Sandy started a new blog that will incorporate all of the other aspects of her other than organizing called Chat with Sandy. It will be an interactive site. You can also interact with Sandy on Twitter at @organizersandy.

- Prizes Donated:
1. A Pouchee!

- SqueezeItIn.com is a new website that features online videos and photos of clever, practical, and effective exercises that help you learn how to "let life be your workout." From doing Hot Squats with a hair-dryer to Va-va-va Vacuuming your way to toned thighs, SqueezeItIn.com shows you how to make fitness fit into the busiest schedules. Because moms know their daily routine is a workout in itself, the moms behind Squeetitin.com wanted to help make fitness fit for everyone. Founders Jenny Hein and Brigette Polmar believe that by using the SqueezeItIn.com exercises throughout the day women can put themselves back on their to-do lists and make health and fitness a priority. To learn more about Squeezeitin.com visit their website at http://www.squeezeitin.com/. The site features new exercises every week.

- Prizes Donated:
1. Squeeze It In DVD

- Angela Marion of A Simple Kinda Life writes about her parenting joys and struggles as a single parent of three, including one child who has ADHD. On her blog she also does product reviews, book reviews, and giveaways. Angie also writes for the Baltimore Examiner as a Frugal Family Examiner, using the many things she has learned from various blogs. You can find Angie at http://angiemarion.blogspot.com/ and on Twitter at @pricousins

- Prizes Donated:
1. $20 Amazon Gift Card

- Mary Freeland's love of pottery and wrought iron have drawn her to Tuscan inspired decor. She is always looking for different pieces to compliment that look. There is something comforting about walking into a house that has a well worn, well used feel. It's a feeling of walking into a home, not a house. Mary's blog has tips, tricks, and ideas to help you achieve this - the Tuscan Home Blog. Mary is a firm believer that everyone deserves to love where they live so she launched Tuscan Home Decor & Design. Not everyone can afford Deruta pottery or imported tile and wrought iron tables from Italy. Her goal is to find Tuscan style accents so that old world feel is affordable to everyone. After all, shouldn't your home be a sanctuary?

-Prizes Donated:
1. Two wine/glass/candle holders (two winners)

- Robyn's Online World is the life of Robyn Wright. What you read on her blog is really the way she is in person. So many people say you need a "niche" for your blog, but Robyn's life isn't a niche, so neither is her blog! It is all about anything in her life - being a mom, a wife, a blogger, a geek, a foodie, and more. She loves doing reviews and giveaways - and yes, in real life she give her opinions of products, too. She's had other websites in the past, but started Robyn's Online World in June of 2008 and has loved it since it started. Robyn thinks that interacting with so many readers is the best part for her. She was thrilled to be included on Nielson's Top 50 Power Moms list (and shocked), to be included with such other great bloggers just blew her away. Along with blogging she is in love with Twitter - follow her at @RobynsWorld. It just is fun for Robyn to instantly be able to communicate, ask questions and get answers, tell a joke, or just hang out. Let's not forget about the fantastic @ResourcefulMom Twitter parties (editor's note: Robyn was not paid to say that) - Robyn's favorite as many of you know.

-Prizes Galore!!!!
- A gift package featuring the Crayola Timer Light toothbrush and other GUM brand products (Value $15 to $20)
- K'Nex 400 Piece Tub (2 winners)
- K'Nex Sesame Street Neighborhood Collection (2 winners)
- Red Stainless Steel Contigo AUTOSEAL travel mug
- Alex Beard Impossible Puzzles (3 winners)

To Enter to Win Any and All Prizes:
1. Visit one of the sites listed above and leave a comment here
2. Subscribe to one of the sites and leave a comment here
3. Follow one of the guests of honor on Twitter and leave a comment here
4. Tweet with the #Community hashtag any time Friday night up until the conclusion of the party at 10 p.m. EST
5. RSVP
Enter as often as you like - feel free to visit every site and subscribe then enter! One win per event, please.

RSVP Here:

None of the participants or prize sponsors paid to participate. Services for all #Community events are donated.

The End of Blog Conferences?

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 18:58:00 +0000

In the last year there have been so many blog conferences for moms, women, techies, foodies, non-bloggers...okay, that last one was a stretch...that it has become literally impossible to keep track of what is where and when and why...

But lately I've noticed that interest in these conferences has begun to slow down. Could this be the beginning of the end of blog conferences?

Before you hurl rotten tomatoes at the screen, let me explain. Someone a few years back invented the first blog conference and likewise the blog conference format, not realizing, of course, that the format would be repeated over and over and over... It runs a bit like this:

- Fly to a major city and check in at a large, expensive hotel

- Sign in to the conference and receive your bag of advertisements, um, valuable coupon codes

- Attend sessions that are somewhat disorganized, marginally informative, and either over-crowded or undersupported

- Find that the real value of the trip is in networking, spending time with friends, and checking out smaller break-out sessions

- Skip the keynote because you realized you haven't had time to actually see anyone because you've attended every session

Please understand that I am not discounting the value of either attending a conference or attending a session - if it's a good session. There is something so incredibly essential about spending time with like-minded people, especially for those of us at home with small children day in and day out. But the fact of the matter is that I have been hearing complaint after complaint about the sessions at some of the larger conferences for some time, and have heard absolutely nothing about changes that will be made to assure quality rather than quantity. At the end of the day, most attendees seem to spend their time and money at these events because it is essentially their only chance to get to know their co-workers. While the blogging community is massive, it remains an isolating past time. When I blog I am usually alone in my office hoping to connect through words on a screen. There's something to be said for breaking out and sharing a hug, a laugh, and a fun blue drink with blogging friends.

Do I think that blog conferences are going to end? No, but I think that the blog conference as we know it may be on the way out. I have received the most value from attending smaller conferences like BlissDom where I truly felt that there was ample time to learn in quality sessions, spend time with the girls, and actually enjoy the fact that I was away from home without the kids! I also love when there's a change in the format. The highlight of the Type-A Mom Conference for most attendees was the blogger Town Hall meeting. That alone made it worth the flight on a frightening puddle jumper over the North Carolina mountains! Early next year I will be working on and attending a Social Media Moms event at Walt Disney World. This conference will combine scheduled events, time in the parks, and inspirational, entertaining speakers into one jam-packed weekend of networking in a relatively small group of moms.

So for everyone thinking - hey, I'd like to plan a conference! - maybe the message is this. Plan a great event where folks can learn and meet-up. But why not toy with the format? Break the mold? In a blogosphere that continues to expand at a phenomenal pace, there's something to be said for standing out in a crowd...especially if you're trying to draw that crowd to your event.

Join Us Thursday for a Special Twitter Chat

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 04:06:00 +0000

You are invited to join us this Thursday at 2:00 p.m. EST for a very special online discussion about natural products sponsored by Seed.

What changes have you made in your life to bring more natural products into your home, into the way you care for your children, for yourself? Do you purchase organic foods and drinks? Have you made the switch to natural cleaning products? Maybe you've started by finding products with greener packaging.

Join us as we discuss how to make natural work in your life and give away some great prizes.

When: Thursday, December 10th from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. EST.

Where: Twitter

How: Tweet with the hashtag #SeedBodyCare and follow @SeedPower and @ResourcefulMom.

Prizes:
Winners will receive a beautiful re-usable basket filled with one each of all of Seed's natural body care products or a $25 gift card to Amazon, one of the online locations where Seed products can be purchased.

RSVP Here:

Read more about the Seed story at http://www.seedpowerbodycare.com/.

A Time to Play #ToyGiveaway - Twitter Party Thursday

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 04:43:00 +0000

It's Time to Play! Created by @JimSilver - father of three and renowned toy expert - and @TheToyGuy Chris Byrne, a leading expert on toys, play, and children's trends, TimetoPlayMag.com is a playful website where you can find the best information on all things "kid" - and have some fun yourself!

Join Jim and Time to Play writer Jeff McKinney (@JeffMMcKinney) this Thursday from 9:00 to 10:00 p.m. EST to celebrate the season with the #ToyGiveaway party. The parties I have hosted for Time to Play in the past have been some of our most fun, and this one is shaping up to be no different!

During the party Jim and Jeff will give away TWENTY of the hottest toys of the season - that's a toy every three minutes! To win, guests must answer toy trivia from me, your hostess for the night (@ResourcefulMom). Prizes include Bakugan, Liv dolls, Nerf, Transformers, Leapster 2, and many more toys and games that your kids will be excited to unwrap this season. And yes, the final prize of the night will be a Zhu Zhu pet hamster and wheel!

Bonus! There will also be five random winners during and immediately following the party, so be sure to join us from 9 to 10 p.m. EST this Thursday with the hashtag #ToyGiveaway.

Tweet you there!

RSVP:

#BrownieDay Twitter Party Tuesday!

amy@resourcefulmommy.com (ResourcefulMommy) — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 04:01:00 +0000

Cheryl & Co., most famous for supplying delicious desserts through 1-800-Flowers, is happy to announce the launch of their Brownie Store. To celebrate they are inviting everyone to join them for a Twitter Sitewarming on….when else? National Brownie Day!

Cheryl & Co. is the home of the famous buttercream frosted cookies – now they are also the home of the richest, freshest, finest buttercream frosted brownies! Their delicious brownies come in 3 wonderful new frosted flavors – hot fudge, peanut butter and classic vanilla buttercream. Each brownie is individually wrapped so perfect for gift-giving!

And speaking of gifts…how about some incredibly delicious prizes for YOU?

To Enter:

Complete any or all of the following steps and leave a comment to this post.
- Follow @CherylandCo on Twitter
- Become a fan of Cheryl&Co on Facebook
- Tweet with the #BrownieDay any time before 9 p.m. EST on Twitter
- Sign up to receive special offers from Cheryl&Co at http://www.cherylandco.com/ (bottom left hand side)
- RSVP and participate in the party
- Answer questions during the party

Prizes:
Every five minutes someone will win a prize pack of Cheryl&Co brownies – perfect to keep or give to someone you love this holiday season!

To participate, please be sure to follow our guest hostess @Delightful_Toni, our sponsor @CherylandCo, and use the hashtag #BrownieDay between 8:00 and 9:00 p.m. EST tomorrow, Tuesday, December 8th.

RSVP Here:

Good luck!