"Animal Planet" Emergency Vets DS game

UPDATED on 5-26: random.org pulled out #3 out of 21 comments. Congrats to: Managed Chaos!!!

The first thing my son said about this game, five minutes into playing it, was "This is sooooo stupid!"

He isn't really into gaming; however, he is really into animals so I was shocked at his statement. I immediately grabbed his DS away from him and started to play my very first Nintendo DS game. As I effortlessly passed each "task" I explained to him that the player needed to complete 15 "tasks" to move up a level.


"Oh. I was getting bored with only 5 games." He admitted.

As I hogged the DS and continued through each level.... picking fleas off of animals, brushing teeth, washing dogs, memorisizing medicines for each pet, and conducting xrays I showed him how one advances to the next level and in the end is able to interact with each animal.

Once I was done He was in love. He, my six year old son, was movtivated to complete the tasks in order to move forward. Which, I thought, was a pretty good lesson in the long run. A much better choice of a DS game then so many others on the market.

"Based on the popular Animal Planet series “Emergency Vets,” kids can play as an up-and-coming veterinarian that helps the other vets at the Alameda East Hospital perform veterinary procedures on a variety of different animals, like teeth cleaning, medicating and operating with the Nintendo DS stylus. After performing successful procedures, players will have the opportunity to interact with each animal and see their reactions."

I have ONE to giveaway. Leave me one comment. Tweet this giveaway (leave me the tweet in your comments) for your chance for a second comment entry. Giveaway ends May 20th, 2009.

Salon Goregous Sans Salon Prices...

This glamorous giveaway includes a shampoo, conditioner, and styling aide from Suave.

I have a couple of sets to giveaway to you all. One comment per person. Tweet about the giveaway for your second chance. Contest ends on Mother's Day 2009. Good luck!!!

Get Salon Gorgeous this Mother’s Day Sans the Salon Price Tag

If you’re planning a fun day or night out to celebrate Mother’s Day, Suave Celebrity Hairstylist Luke O'Connor has some simple tips to help anyone recreate some hot lock-looks. While we may not all have Hollywood budgets, you can still look like you do! Suave® Professionals® offers salon-quality products that help you create your desired ‘dos at affordable prices.

The Look: Stunning and Simple Side Bun

Take your regular bun from blah to WOW with a chic side bun, a popular red carpet look. It's easy to achieve this classy, modern take on the Hollywood tradition that will have your style turning heads wherever you go.

To re-create at home:

• For smooth and frizz-free locks, prep hair with Suave Professionals Sleek Shampoo and Conditioner.
• Next, give hair body and control by applying Suave Professionals Extra Hold Styling Foam to damp hair.
• Gather the top layer of hair and pin up at the crown. Blow-dry the rest of hair in sections using a medium round brush to lock in volume. Unpin hair at the crown and blow dry in 1 inch sections using the round brush.
• Blow dry bangs by rolling the hair around the brush away from the face and directed to the side for swooping bangs. Keep side-swept bangs locked in place with Suave Professionals Extra Hold Gel.
• Next, take a 1.5 inch curling iron to curl the large sections of hair.
• Finally, gather hair into a pony tail and loosely twist down to create a low chignon off to the side. Secure with pins and let loose pieces fall naturally for a look that's effortlessly chic.

The Look: Glamour Curls on Cue

Everyone loves the look of loose, gorgeous curls. Structured curls with a middle part gives the look a modern edge – and you can make it happen in the comfort of your own home.

To re-create at home:

• Stock your shower with Suave Humectant Shampoo and Conditioner so curls will have added shine and brightness.
• Next, apply Suave Professionals Extra Hold Styling Foam to damp hair to give body and control. Be sure to blow dry hair upside down to achieve maximum volume.
• Once hair is completely dry, flip back up and create a center part. Take 1 to 1.5 inch sections of hair and spiral wrap around a 1 to 1.25 inch curling iron to create neat curls.
• For superior style and control, lock in the look with Suave Professionals Freeze Hold Hairspray.

The Look: The Half-Up for 100% Style

A fun look that gives the best of both worlds, try wearing your hair half-up. This method is a sophisticated update to the traditional look, giving hair a gorgeous volume.

To re-create at home:

• Use Suave Damage Care Shampoo and Conditioner in the shower to condition, revitalize and protect hair from over-processing.
• Take the top section of hair and blow dry back with a medium round brush.
• Then, pull bangs forward with the round brush and point blow-dryer at hair from underneath, curling bangs up with the brush. Part hair on the side. Blow dry the rest of hair until dry and then curl with a one-inch curling iron (for looser curls, use a larger curling iron).
• Next, tease the crown of the hair with a comb, using a downward motion to create beautiful volume on top. Smooth teased crown with a comb and secure this section of hair in the back with bobby pins or sparkly barrette for a little extra glam. Use Suave Professionals Freeze Hold Hairspray to keep hair in place all night.

Just in time for Mother's Day....

UPDATED: Since I am nearly blind and unable to see I am picking the 1st two Mother & Daughters commenters and the first two Mothers & Sons commenters. Jessica and Jessica won the daughter books and Stephanie and Tara won the Sons books. CONGRATS!!!!


Chicken Soup for the Soul: Like Mother, Like Daughter and Chicken Soup for the Soul: Moms & Sons

Two great books for your mother/mother-in-law/sister/yourself of stories about the special bond between mothers and their sons and or daughters. I am giving away TWO COPIES of EACH BOOK. That means there will be FOUR WINNERS. Just leave me one comment per person and included the title you would like to have.

Want another chance to win? Tweet about the giveaway for another chance to win (leave me tweet in comments) and/or leave this link on your FaceBook page (copy and paste and leave it in the comments). Contest ends May 6th.

Turning into your mother? You’re not alone

Mothers and daughters dish their uncanny connections in Chicken Soup for the Soul

COS COB, Conn. – From borrowed outfits to goofy mannerisms, there is a time when most women must sheepishly admit, “I’m turning into my mother.” But while mother-daughter duos like Kate Hudson and Goldie Hawn, Gwyneth Paltrow and Blythe Danner, or Jamie Lee Curtis and Janet Leigh are all notable examples of passed-down female genes, you don’t have to look to Hollywood for special mother-daughter bonds. The magical similarities that mothers and daughters share are among the most heart-warming – and often amusing – features of any family.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Like Mother, Like Daughter (Chicken Soup for the Soul, September 30, 2008, 978-1935096-07-8, $14.95) is a collection of stories written by moms and daughters on their mutual admiration for one another. It is part of the “101 Best Stories” series by the new publisher of Chicken Soup for the Soul books. With refreshed cover designs and interior layouts, books in the “101 Best Stories” series offer the Editor’s favorite tales and poems submitted in the 15-year history of Chicken Soup for the Soul, reflecting the brand’s excitement and new energy on this memorable anniversary.

Divided into sections ranging from “Learning from Each Other” to “Saying Goodbye,” Chicken Soup for the Soul: Like Mother, Like Daughter offers stories on maternal wisdom, raising teenage girls, becoming friends with Mom, grandmothers, granddaughters, and more.

“My mother and I have always had a very special relationship, a bond that few people can comprehend,” writes Chicken Soup for the Soul: Like Mother, Like Daughter contributor Nicole Plyler Fisk. “Ever since I was a little girl, I remember her teaching me about a mother’s love: constant and unconditional. She would remind me of an old Polish proverb: The greater love is a mother’s, then comes a dog’s, then a sweetheart’s.”

Inside Chicken Soup for the Soul: Like Mother, Like Daughter, you’ll also read about:

• How contributor Lizanne Southgate was reunited with her daughter after nearly 20 years

• How cyclist Peggy Newland recreated her mother’s cross-country bicycle ride

• How contributor Shana Helmholdt battled – and survived – leukemia, with her mother by her side

• Why contributor Sylvia Rosa-Casanova describes the period that her mother moved in with her as a time of “the most grief and the most joy”

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Like Mother, Like Daughter (Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, and Amy Newmark) releases September 2008. Chicken Soup for the Soul Publishing, LLC, publishes all the latest titles in the famous Chicken Soup for the Soul book series which are distributed through Simon and Schuster, Inc. Since 1993, books in the Chicken Soup for the Soul series have sold over 112 million copies, with titles translated into over 40 languages. Chicken Soup for the Soul Publishing also licenses the right to use its famous trademark to high quality licensees through IMG, the world's premier licensing agent. The company is currently implementing a plan to expand into all media, is working with TV networks on several TV shows and is developing a major Internet presence dedicated to life improvement, emotional support and inspiration. In 2007, USA Today named Chicken Soup for the Soul one of the five most memorable and impactful books in the last quarter century. For more information visit: www.chickensoup.com.

Mama’s boys – and the mothers who love them

New Chicken Soup for the Soul collection celebrates eternal bond between mothers and sons

COS COB, Conn. – As numerous mothers know, raising boys can be an adventure. From baby blue blankets to first wedding dances, sons provide their mothers immeasurable amounts of joy – not to mention bruised knees to clean, rambunctious friends, and good-natured teasing. And while many men might bristle at the term “mama’s boy,” most mothers consider it high praise for their beloved sons.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Moms and Sons (Chicken Soup for the Soul Publishing, LLC., 978-1-935096-16-0, September 2008, $14.95) is a collection of stories from mothers, grandmothers, and sons about their special relationship. It is part of the new “101 Best Stories” series by the new publisher of Chicken Soup for the Soul books. With refreshed cover designs and interior layouts, books in the “101 Best Stories” series offer the Editor’s favorite tales and poems submitted in the 15-year history of Chicken Soup for the Soul, reflecting the brand’s excitement and new energy on this memorable anniversary.

With topics ranging from “Being a Sport” to “Raising Wonderful Men,” Chicken Soup for the Soul: Moms and Sons offers glimpses into the touching – and often funny – interactions between mothers and their boys. Grateful sons, single moms, and loving grandmothers all chime in to add their voices to this new collection.

“What more could a son ask from his mother than her continued support and love?” writes Chicken Soup for the Soul: Moms and Sons contributor Johnny N. Ortez. “Nothing can compare to a mother’s love, and being a mama’s boy is a good thing. My mom has been the rock of my life.”

“Unity, love family – these are the things that saved my sons and will save many more sons to come,” writes Falaka Fattah, who adopted the members of a Philadelphia gang and became their surrogate mother. “There is no limit to this love. My own name, Falaka, means “new day.” Every day for me is another opportunity to be a mother to these boys who, more than anything, simply need love.”

Inside Chicken Soup for the Soul: Moms and Sons, you’ll also read about:

• How Connie Hill’s son honored her for being a working mom

• The meaning behind Cheryl Costello-Forshey’s “no hug” rule – and how a son decided to break it

• Why Kirk Hill took his mom out on a date

• Why dinnertime is the favorite time of day for Lynn Fredericks, single mom of two sons

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Moms and Sons (Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, and Amy Newmark) releases September 2008. Chicken Soup for the Soul Publishing, LLC, publishes all the latest titles in the famous Chicken Soup for the Soul book series which are distributed through Simon and Schuster, Inc. Since 1993, books in the Chicken Soup for the Soul series have sold over 112 million copies, with titles translated into over 40 languages. Chicken Soup for the Soul Publishing also licenses the right to use its famous trademark to high quality licensees through IMG, the world's premier licensing agent. The company is currently implementing a plan to expand into all media, is working with TV networks on several TV shows and is developing a major Internet presence dedicated to life improvement, emotional support and inspiration. In 2007, USA Today named Chicken Soup for the Soul one of the five most memorable and impactful books in the last quarter century. For more information visit: www.chickensoup.com.

Family baseball fun. Cheaper then a ticket to a movie.

I have a hard time avoiding the back aisles of Target where the shelves are packed with mis-matched clearance items. I slow down and access the merchandise, none of which we really need and all of which is on sale. It's like putting candy in front of a baby.

On my latest Target run, I noticed a "Pop A Pitch" baseball setup that was marked down 50% to just a little over $8.00. Cheaper then a ticket to a movie. And so the setup found refugee in my cart since baseball season did just start and who couldn't use another summer backyard fun activity? Upon arriving home, my SKYPE was ringing on my computer and my father (on his webcam) witnessed me unpacking my latest clearance item.
"What a piece of plastic junk."

"Okay. Dad... "

"In my days we tied a ball to a string and hung it up on a tree." He sighed out loud through the computer screen.

Today. We had the chance to try out our new "piece of plastic junk" for $8.00. And... it was a huge HIT! Pun intended, teehee. It is easy to set up, requires no batteries, and works perfectly. The ball shoots up at the same location every time and is great practice.

It was a nice ego booster for a boy that just started playing baseball on a real league.

And equally as nice of an ego booster for a father that hasn't played real baseball since his college days.

It kept our entire family busy on a lazy Saturday and was well worth the $8.00.

(Not being compensated for this post. Might be adding a lot more of my Target run finds here. If Target is reading.... call me, mkay?)

Everyone is a winner!

UPDATED ON 4-28-09
So many awesome videos! Here is a list of the three winners:
1. Natalie Jane said...Sweet! I am waiting to actually post this to my blog since I did a little anniversary tribute to my hubby, but you can see it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dNNRopXBh4
2. Managed Chaos said... http://mymanagedchaos.blogspot.com/2009/04/love-you-forever.html A spin off of my favorite children's book "Love You Forever"...dedicated to my children.
3. Jeannie said... Ok...I hope I posted this right? Here you go... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EqZahBwhgso

Once in a while, I stumble across something SO great I just can't wait to share it with all of you. If you are a regular you know I take a gazillion photos. The last time I put a collage of photos together was for Lola's 5th birthday I stayed up past 2am, I cried in defeat, I swore at my computer, I yelled at youtube, I poured my sweat and tears into that video and never realized that there was a much easier way of putting together a slideshow of photos.

I am head over stilettos in crazy love with Animoto.com . A website that makes completely professional music videos to your photo collages. And. The best part is.... it's so incredibly easy. You upload your pictures, pick a song, and it creates the video for you in mere minutes. Seriously it took me no more then 30 minutes to upload, edit, and post on youtube.

Where were you Animoto? When I needed you the most?

Have no fear my classy readers. Animoto is here for you. Just in time for Mother's Day too. The people over at Animoto are offering each and EVERYONE of you a FULL ALL-ACCESS week long subscription to their site. Just follow this link that has been specially designed just for Classy Chaos readers, like you. Every other random person online can only access the 30 second trial. With that link you can create full length video collages all week long for one week. The FREE all access pass ends on April 24th so go ahead and start working on your full length feature today! You can save your video to your hard drive, to a DVD, to youtube or FaceBook, or email it to anyone. I can not even describe to you how easy the process really is. Use your free week long membership now. Do it.

More good news....

I am very certain you will love your week long trial and so are the people at Animoto. I am giving away THREE full-year full-access memberships to their site. What do you need to do to win this awesome giveaway?

1. Make a video with your free week long trial. Use this link: http://animoto.com/sign_up?promo=ClassyChaos09
2. Upload it to youtube or your website.
3. Leave me the url to the video you created, in the comments below.
4. I will hand pick the three best videos and post them on my blog on April 25th.
5. Twitter/Blog about your video and also my giveaway, leave me that URL in the comments below to further your chances of winning.

Recap:
Make video with your free week long access. Pimp your video out online for everyone to see. Leave me the URL (once on youtube, once on your blog, once on twitter.... three chances of furthering your winning in total.... leave me all urls in comments below)

I am so excited to share this with you and can't wait to see what you create. Now... go on... create. You have only until April 24th to use the FREE full-feature trial designed just for Classy Chaos readers.


Here is my video:

Easy-Bake Contest & Giveaway

UPDATE: The winner of the easy bake oven is #22 Kari!!! Congrats.





This past school year, while the baby is asleep in the afternoon, Lola and I have spent a lot of afternoons in our kitchen. She loves to cook and bake so much that I think I have put on an extra five pounds from our afternoons together. Heh. But I digress. She, like so many little girls, really enjoys cooking.

Easy-Bake oven is having a contest. Each month, one winner will win a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida in May 2009 to compete for the Grand Prize and Title of "Baker of the Year". See website for details.



I have ONE EASY-BAKE Oven to giveaway. Contest open until Wednesday April 15, 2009. One comment per person. Tweet/blog about the giveaway and you can leave me your second comment (please include your url).


EASY-BAKE Oven & Snack Center

(Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $24.99/Available: Spring 09)

The beloved EASY-BAKE Oven & Snack Center is back in its original aqua color. The classic side-loading oven that bakes with a light bulb returns to let bakers-in-the-making whip up tasty snacks for friends and family, including cakes, brownies, cookies, and much more. The oven comes with three different mixes, two baking pans, two utensils, a pan pusher, two warming cups and recipes/instructions. One 100-watt standard light bulb is required but not included. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

Classy Baby blankets...

UPDATED: The winner of the blanket giveaway is #9.... SweetLily. Please email me.




"Aden + Anais was formed by Australian mothers who moved to the United States and found that the swaddling cloths made of the muslin fabric they wanted were too small for their babies, Aden and Anais. Further, every swaddling blanket that was large enough was made with fabric other than the muslin cloth that is so readily available for swaddling a baby in Australia. So they began making their own, adding baby hooded towel designs and baby washcloths to their soft muslin creations. Before long, they were being asked, "where did you get that great swaddling cloth?" by doctors, friends and mothers out and about who all wanted these muslin swaddling baby items for their own babies. Hence, the company "Aden + Anais" was born."


One l lucky reader will win a Australian muslin baby wraps from Aden & Anais. Please leave me one comment. Tweet about the giveaway and leave me your tweet as a second comment. GOOD LUCK!!! You have until April 10th, 2009.

Winter Warmth Swaddles on sale for $29.95 - normally $49.95
Dream Blankets on sale for $39.95 - normally $59.95
Visit adenandanais.com and enter promo code "wintersale” to receive the discount.