Free Blogger opportunity

With so many babies born, it time to celebrate all the new mommies.   And we would love to have you participate.  If you haven’t heard about KinSights - Kinsights is an online Pediatric Personal Health Record Keeper for parents. Gone are the days where you’re being held responsible for keeping track of slips of paper or lugging files and folders containing your children’s health information.  And in the event of an emergency, you can even have the health records sent to the ER or out-of-town doctor in a snap.

Dates: July 14 – 31, 2014
Price: FREE! You will get ONE LINK for free! You have the option to buy more links for $3 each.
*You can post about the event sign up to be entered into a $10 USD Paypal or Amazon Giftcard Drawing, but this is completely optional! Everyone who posts, is entered into this drawing!
*The blogger that refers the most people to participate will receive $10 USD Paypal or Amazon Giftcard, so help spread the word!
Prize: $500.00 Amazon.com Giftcard
Your Part: We will send you HTML to post and have running during the event dates. It will include all the information about the prizes and the entry form. All you have to do is post!
To sign up:

Please fill out the form below

8 great travel products

Summer is here and a lot of families like to travel, but travel can be hard on families with kids. Here are some awesome products that will make traveling a little easier.

1. Cardiff Booster Seat Headrest-This revolutionary, new device provides support and comfort for a child asleep in a moving vehicle. Its thoughtful design can also accommodate users of all sizes. By attaching to your vehicle’s existing headrest with a simple, universal mount, the Booster Seat Headrest provides lateral support to keep a child’s head and body upright; comfortably aligned in the seat as they sleep. They are $49.99 atwww.cardiffproducts.com.

2. Family Travel Organizer by One Step Ahead- Not only does this jumbo car organizer offer a place for everything, unlike others, it stays put! Just anchor it to a seatbelt, and it won’t shift. The backseat organizer is rugged and roomy enough to share, with movable dividers to adjust as needed. It’s nicely insulated, with two drink holders, eight outside pockets, and a carry strap, so you can take it along with you. Plus, the lid is made so sturdy, it doubles as a play or snack tray. You can find it for $34.95 at www.onestepahead.com. 

3. Psi Bands- Do you or your kids suffer from motion sickness? Luckily there is a new invention that can help. Psi Bands (pronounced “Sigh Bands”) are drug-free wrist bands for the relief of nausea due to motion sickness/travel, morning sickness, chemotherapy, and anesthesia. With Psi Bands, those who suffer from the VERY common, yet debilitating condition of nausea can feel better — in style and comfort! Psi Bands are being praised for their unique combination of features and benefits. They are drug-free, adjustable–around the wrist like a watch AND at the acupressure point, comfortable, waterproof, reusable, affordable, and, of course, fashionable. Find them for $12.99 at www.psibands.com.

4. Tegu Wooden Blocks-The Pocket Pouch is the perfect introduction to the world of Tegu magnetic wooden blocks. It’s the perfect toy for the car, airplane, or desk. Tegu has reinvented the wooden block in a way that brings new life to a favored classic. Let the magical combination of magnets and beautiful Honduran hardwoods push and pull your imagination in ways never before possible. Available for $32.99 at www.tegu.com. 

5. Kids Love Play Activity Books- Kids Love Play offers, fun, high quality and many award winning toys for kids 3-12 years old. While traveling children can discover, explore, and express their creativity… which means they are kept busy! Sticker or other activity books are perfect for summer travel and educate your children on fun topics like cultures from around the world, dream jobs, and real life heroes. Each sticker book comes with hundreds of stickers and can be used as a picture book to look at once the stickers are completed. These engaging activity books will stimulate children’s intelligence and creativity during those hot summer months. They can be found for $8.00 – $13.00 at www.kidsloveplay.com. 

6. Parking Pal Magnet- Parking lots are dangerous and it only takes a few seconds for a tragedy to occur; keep your kids safe with the Parking Pal. The Parking Pal is designed to be placed on the side of your vehicle, where it will remain safely attached at all times. While in a parking lot, children place one hand on their Parking Pal creating a safe spot. It was specifically created with bright colors, playful illustrations, and a small palm children love to place their hands on. After a couple learning sessions, your child will discover that the Parking Pal is their safe spot, and they will know where to go the second they are outside the car. It also helps teach them that parking lots are no place to play. Get it for $8.99 at www.parkingpalmagnet.com.

7. Star Kids Snack & Play Travel Tray- This Star Kids Snack & Play Travel Tray entertainment center unfolds and is full of exciting and educational activities. Snack & Play Travel Tray provides a sturdy surface for travel treats and toys, firm enough to eat on, play upon, read, etc. Tray buckles around the child, and you can use with car seats, booster seats, strollers, on airplanes, in movie theaters, etc. Has 2″ padded rim to keep toys and snacks on tray along with two large mesh side pockets. It’s made of foam and nylon. Get this for
$19.99 at www.toysrus.com.

8. ZizzyBee Bags- ZizzyBee Bags are perfect for packing all of your travel essentials. Have everything in one spot, organized, and within reach. Separate and pack your toiletries, medicines/vitamins, and important travel documentation each in a ZizzyBee Bag. ZizzyBee Bags are see-through so you can easily know what is packed in each bag to access what you need quickly and with no fuss. They’re great for packing snacks, swim gear, an extra change of clothes, small toys, arts and crafts, and much more. Instead of digging through your packed bags, have what you need handy and accessible. With two eco-friendly sizes to choose from in a variety of cute colors and designs, ZizzyBee Bags are see-through, reusable and washable storage bags that will surely keep you organized and kids entertained by what’s in them! They can be found for $15.99 – $19.99 at www.zizzybeebags.com.

8 money saving tips for babies and kids

We all want to save money especially when it comes to our kids right? Here are some essential money saving tips:

1. Do a babysitting co-op:group child care is a lot cheaper than sending your child to a center. Also, if you choose a stay-at-home caretaker you could be available for a tax credit. A great option is to work together with local parents and create a co-op. Bargain and take turns watching the group of children, splitting time between all the parents. It is a great way to save money, and give your children the social interactions they need.

2. Online grocery shopping: You buy everything else online, why not your groceries? There are many websites available, such as Freshdirect.com, peapod.com, and even amazon.com/grocery. The items may not be cheaper, but in the long run it will save you money as you are less likely to impulse buy online than seeing the items in store.

3. Borrow/exchange: Baby items can be very expensive. You can save on this by getting second hand. amily and friends are one great option. Websites like thredup.com and swapmamas.com are great ways to make friends and get items for cheap. Craigslist is also great.

4. Save on socializing: "mommy and me' groups/classes can be fun, but they can also get expensive. Instead why don't you create your own local playgroups? websites like playgroupusa.com and playgroup.meetup.com can help you. when they get older, dont enroll them in a bunch of costly sports and classes. Limit them to one or 2, and look online to find free activities.

5. Saving for education: you should start saving for baby's education when they are born, or even while you are pregnant. Start by investing in a 529 savings plan. Open an account on UPromise, which allows friends and family to link their credit cards to your child's 529 plan. Every time they spend with one of Upromise's affiliates, you receive money. It won't cost them a thing but easily adds a few hundred dollars to the 529 account annually,

6. open a health savings account: You can open a health savings account only when you have a high deductible health insurance plan. Keep in mind that many health care plans provided by employers offers a well-baby program; it varies by employers but is designed to assist the mother before and right after pregnancy. These plans usually offer a generous return on investments, Haselton says, and many cover standard expenses associated with health care, including vaccinations.

7. Be resourceful: again, baby items can be quite expensive. Making your own baby food can be one way to save. Brestfeeding, if you can, is a great way to save money. Cloth diapering, though it can be a bit expensive to get started, can save you money on diapers in the long run. If you are crafty you can even make your own diapers and wipes.

8. Life Insurance: One thing parents sometimes don't think about is what will happen to their children financially if something happened to them, and so they don't purchase life insurance. Consider where the financial loss will be should something happen. If both parents are working, purchase for both. If one is a stay-at-home parent, consider whether child care will be affordable without them; if not, purchase for them as well. And don't give in to purchasing life insurance for your baby! He or she does not need it if you and/or your spouse is covered

Craftsy

We all love doing crafts right? Ever want to decorate a cake but didn't know how? Want to learn how to crochet? Then you will love Craftsy. You can access online classes that teach you cake decorating, quilting, crocheting, sewing, photography, cooking, and more. There are even a few free classes for you to access. You can even buy kits and supplies on the website. There is a projects section where users post cakes they have made while using the online classes. Here are some class options out of MANY:
  Topsy-Turvy Cake Construction - $39.99 from: Craftsy.com
  Cake-osaurus Rex - $39.99  from: Craftsy.com
  Clean & Simple Cake Design - $39.99 from: Craftsy.com
  Creative Photography: Capture Life Differently - $59.99 from: Craftsy.com
  Wedding Photography: The Romantic Portrait Session - $59.99 from: Craftsy.com
  Project Upcycle: Thrifty Sewing Projects - $19.99 from: Craftsy.com
  Sewing Studio: Fashion Fitting, Home Decor & More - $29.99 from: Craftsy.com

  save up to 50% off on ALL online classes at Craftsy's BIG Summer Sale!

 Visit Craftsy to see what else is offered and start a class today.

Kiwi Crate

Yes this is yet another monthly box subscription. These boxes have crafts and projects in them. They are great for fun in the summer, winter fun when your kids are stuck inside, to give as a birthday gift, or if you homeschool as a great art idea. The website also sells separate arts and crafts items, single crates, and party favors. You can choose a monthly subscription, 3 month, 6 month, or 12 month subscription. The boxes include all the materials and inspiration for 2-3 activities- art, science, games, imaginative play, and more. For only $9.95/month you can add materials to the crates, which is great when you have more than one child to keep them from fighting. Kiwi Crates are recommended for children ages 3-8.

  Growing Garden - $19.95 from: Kiwi Crate
  Space Hero - $19.95 from: Kiwi Crate
  Feathered Friends - $19.95 from: Kiwi Crate
  Fairy Fun - $19.95 from: Kiwi Crate
Family Game Night - $19.95 from: Kiwi Crate

 Get these items and more. Shop Kiwi Crate

Personalized books for your kids

Iseeme.com makes personalized books in a variety of themes. They also have items such as growth charts, placemats, lunch boxes and more all personalized.
  The World According To Me Personalized Book - $39.95
from: ISeeMe.com

  God Loves You! Personalized Book - $24.95
from: ISeeMe.com

  Who Loves Me? Personalized Book - $24.95
from: ISeeMe.com

  My Very Own Name Storybook & Personalized Puzzle Gift Set - $59.90
from: ISeeMe.com

My Very Own Fairy Tale Personalized Plate - $19.95
from: ISeeMe.com


Personalized Pirate Bandana - $16.00
from: ISeeMe.com
 See these items and more at iseeme.com
  Click here for high quality personalized children's books at ISeeMe.com!

Citrus Lane

Citrus Lane is another monthly box subscription service. Your child will get surprises every month based on age and gender. Babies get stuffed toys, teethers, oragnic snacks, noise maker toys, stacking toys and more. Toddlers receive things such as plates, backpacks, toys, organic snacks, organic bath items and more. Preschoolers receive water bottles, organic snacks, toys, organic bath items, games, craft items and more. These boxes are recommended for ages newborn-5 years old. You can order for your own children or as a gift for someone else. Citrus Lane

Try Bluum

Do you like receiving monthly boxes of surprises? Does your baby? Try Bluum. They have a 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months option. You will receive a custom box for mom and baby. The products in the box are based on baby's gender, age, and developmental stage and shipping is always free. There is Bluum pregnancy for expectant moms, Bluum baby for newborns up to 12 months, Bluum toddler for 13+ months and Bluum Preschool for kids up to 4. Products can include: skin care, food items, toys, books,apparel. Most, but not all, items are organic. Discover a monthly box of new goodies for you & baby. From pregnancy to preschool! Try bluum today!

On Sale this week at Zulily

I love shopping at Zulily. They have great deals. I can buy kids clothes, pet items, toys, home items, and clothes for myself all in one place. This is a sponsored post. Follow the links to see what is on sale this week. The Limited on sale at zulily RUUM on sale at zulily Ositos on sale at zulily Kate Spade on sale at zulily Hanna Andersson – up to 50% off at zulily Adidas men's and women's swimwear on sale at zulily LEGO on sale at zulily Mud Pie – up to 60% off at zulily Minecraft on sale at zulily Jelly the Pug on sale at zulily Gerber on sale at zulily KidKraft – up to 55% off at zulily

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a

Visa GC $100

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-2 Free links with announcement (Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest)
Get the promotional announcement here
The announcement is required or you can pay $5.00 waiver fee

-Giveaway Date:  June 16 to June 30

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Summer Snowslope Getaways

Many enjoy the snowslopes in the winter seasons, but these spots also make great summer getaways. Check some great locations out.

1. Vail Mountain: Vail, Colorado- Rent bikes by the hour from Vail Sports (vailsports.com) and pedal through the European-style villages along the Gore Creek greenway to Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. after touring the extensive botanic garden's waterfalls, pools, and bridges, hit the nearby playground in Ford Park. The Eagle Bahn Gondola will carry you to Adventure Ridge, a mountaintop fun zone with breathtaking views, a slack line park, and brand-new zip lines and ropes courses (separate fees for most activities). Visit vail.com for more details. 

2. Wisp Resort: McHenry Maryland- At Wisp, families can split time between the mountain and nearby 3,900-acre Deep Creek Lake. Wisp's Mountain Coaster (a cross between an alpine slide and a roller coaster) has 3,500 feet of downhill twists that you tackle in two-person carts ($19 for 2 riders). The mountain's extensive canopy tour program, including zip lines and agility challenges, has options for kids as young as 4 ($14-$49 per activity). If you prefer something mellower, Wisp's Deep Creek Lake Beach Hut rents stand-up paddleboards ($24/hour $14/half hour). Check out wispresort.com for more details.

3. Park City Mountain Resort: Park City, Utah- Park City has everything you'd expect of a world-class ski resort during the summer- including one of the longest alpine slides in the world and a tandem zip line that's perfect for families- and it's only a few minutes from Utah Olympic Park. Carve out time to watch U.S. Ski Team aerialists practice their jumps throughout the summer at the Aerials Pool (free; utaholympiclegacy.com) For more details visit parkcitymountain.com

4. Smugglers' Notch Resort: Jeffersonville, Vermont- Smuggs has one of the most impressive warm weather programs on the East Coast. Take a hike to Rum Runners' Hideaway, a tiny mountain lake where you can rent canoes, or challenge the kids on the new Treetop Obstacle Course, a high-ropes course with more than 60 features ($60 ahes 8+, $30 ages 4-7). Families also enjoy nightly camp-type activities, such as make-your-own-box-cart derbies and bonfire sing-alongs. Visit smuggs.com for more information.

5. Big Sky Resort: Big Sky, Montana- Adventures about at Big Sky's compact mountain village, a favorite home base for families exploring nearby Yellowstone National Park. Big kids will love the Giant Swing ($13), which carries riders as high as 30 feet. The whole family should experience the Lone peak Expedition, which takes you up a 11,166-foot mountain via chairlift, safari-style truck, and tram, with dramatic views of 2 national parks awaiting you at the summit ($83). Go to bigskyresort.com to get more information

6. Heavenly Mountain Resort: South Lake Tahoe, California- You won't find a better family photo op than the one available aboard the resort's gondola, which treats you to views of the impossibly blue Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. At Adventure Peak, you have access to zip lines, ropes courses, and hiking trails galore. You'll even find a summer tubing hill covered with snow (Fees vary; check website for up-to-date prices) Visit skiheavenly.com.

Protect your kids this summer from harmful rays

As summer is here, kids love being outdoors and heading to the pool. Don't forget the sunscreen. one thing you may not know is it isn't all about SPF. Sunlight contains both UVA and UVB rays, but even some sunscreens that boast a high SPF only protect from UVB as those are the rays that primarily cause sunburn. They forget the UVA rays that can still damage the skin and may initiate skin cancers. For the best protection it is recommended to use a broad spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or at least 3 percent avobenzone. Remember to apply it at least 20 minutes before heading outside and remember to reapply it every 2-3 hours. Some good picks are:

Coppertone Sensitive Sunscreen- hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, with ray-blocking zinc oxide. $8.99

Kiss My Face Kids Mineral Sunscreen- a mineral blend that includes zinc oxide and aloe. $14.99

Honest Sunscreen SPF 30- contains a hefty 20 percent zinc oxide, plus natural oils $13.95

Roll-it-up strawberry roulade recipe

for the cake:
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon orange zest
3/4 cup flour
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 eggs separated, plus one yolk
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

for the filling:
1 pound strawberries, washed, hulled, and sliced
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon orange zest
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon sour cream
3 tablespoons confectioners' sugar, plus more for dusting

1. Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Coat a rimmed baking sheet with butter, cover it with parchment paper, then coat the paper with butter.

2. Make the cake. In a small bowl whisk 2/3 cup of the sugar and the zest together. Add the dry ingredients and whisk until well blended. In a large bowl with a hand mixer set on high, beat together the 5 egg yolks, oil, milk, and vanilla. Combine the mixtures and beat until well blended.

3. In a large bowl with a hand mixer set on high, beat the 4 egg whites until soft peaks form, about 1 1/2 minutes. Add the remaining sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form, about 1 minute more. Fold the egg whites into the batter, then pour it onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Bake until the top of the cake is light brown, about 15 minutes. Let cool.

4. Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, toss the berries, sugar, and zest.

5. In a large bowl with a hand mixer set on high, beat the remaining ingredients until stiff peaks form, about 2 minutes.

6. Spread the filling onto the cake, leaving a 1-inch border. Scatter the berries on top. Beginning at the short end, roll the cake, letting the parchment fall away as you work. Place the cake seam side down on a platter and dust with confectioners' sugar.

Nutrition per serving: 293 calories, 5g protein, 15g fat (7g sat. fat), 37g carbs, 1g fiber, 26g sugar, 53mg calcium, 1mg iron, 125mg sodium

If your child likes to help they can, mix and pour the batter, prepare the filling, help roll up the cake

Fun Days in June and July

here are some cool days coming up this month and next:

June 6-National Yo-yo Day...learn some cool tricks at yoyotricks.com

June 28-Great American Backyard Campout...pitch a tent and have some smores on this awesome day...find tips, recipes, games, and more at backyardcampout.org. Try some fun smores such as the original or try peanut butter on them, or switch out your chocolate for maybe a reese cup or other candy bar.

July 12-13-World cup...learn all about soccer and the World Cup...mix up some Brazilian Lemonade: cut off the ends of 3 small limes and slice each one into 8 wedges. Place them in a blender with 1/3 cup sugar, 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk, 3 cups cold water, and 2 cups ice. Blend on high until smooth, about 1 minute then strain with a fine mesh sieve. Serve over ice.

July 24-27- Comic-Con International in San Diego. If you cannot attend check your local area to see if they are having one or just visit a local comic book store. Try making your own with books found on galison.com or your local art and craft store.