Coupon

Dryel is offering a $3 off coupon via email, available at http://dryel.com/darkjeansdark/.

Happy New Year!!!

Happy New Year, Bloggy Buddies!
See ya, 2010! 

May 2011 bring you peace and happiness. 
Wishing you all the best for the year to come!
~Samantha 

Squinkies Winner

Melissa!  Congrats!

Purex Crystals- Review and Contest

Hi there, Bloggy Buddies! 
So.  How much laundry do you do a week?  (Or a day?  LOL)
OK, a lot?  If you are like me, you go through a LOT of laundry supplies, and have your favorites.  Ans this is one area that I'm an expensive date- I don't like junky laundry detergent.  Gross smell, bothers Little Man's skin, the clothes don't wash as cleanly....But guess what?  I'm one of the new Purex Insiders. Hooray for sippy spills!
Just kidding! 
But as one of many domestic divas (can I get an woot-woot, ladies?), I'm excited to try out new Purex Complete Crystals.  As an "Insider" I get sneak peaks at new products, and then I get to share them with you! And we are supposed to share with our frinds, right? Any of you who follow my Tweets knows that the newest release from Purex hit Wal-Mart shelves on Dec 28.

I never catch the cycle to add the fabric softener.  Um, sorry, little busy here!  (Hehehe)
But Purex COmplete Crystals has the softener built right in!  Yay!
Love the scent (I got to try "Fresh Spring Waters") and it lasts a while- which says something with Kamikaze, LOL.  That kid and her clothes....AHHHHH!!!!

A purer way to get laundry that smells clean & fresh for weeks. Purex^® Complete Crystals^TM Softener is a 92% natural softener that is entirely new way to freshen your laundry.
Simply add the crystals with detergent at the start of the wash, and the crystals infuse your fabrics throughout the wash.

What scents are offered, you ask?
Fresh Spring Waters, Lavender Blossom, and Tropical Splash!
Want a coupon for Purex Crystals?
Here are a few ways you can enter, do as many or as few as you want!
-Leave me a comment with your favorite scent 
-Follow me on Twitter @HaveSippy and Follow the conversation on Twitter using the hashtag  #purexcrystals
-Leave a comment on my FaceBook page telling me you want to win it.

DISCLOSURE: A product sample was provided for review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed in this post are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
No purchase necessary.  Void where prohibited by law.  Limited to US residents; 18 years old and above.  Sponsor is responsible for providing and sending prize.  Ends  Jan 14, 2011.

Sigh. Adulthood!

Cute post from "The Mommy Files"- posted with permission, of course!  
Oh, how true they are!  Hehe....

ADULT REALIZATIONS
1. I think part of a best friend’s job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.
2. Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you’re wrong.
3. I totally take back all those times I didn’t want to nap when I was younger.
4. There is a great need for a sarcasm font.
5. How the hell are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?
6. Was learning cursive really necessary?
7. Map Quest really needs to start their directions on #5. I’m pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.
8. Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.
9. I can’t remember the last time I wasn’t at least kind of tired.
10. Bad decisions make good stories.
11. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren’t going to do anything productive for the rest of the day.
12. Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after Blue Ray? I don’t want to have to restart my collection…again.
13. I’m always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my ten-page technical report that I swear I did not make any changes to.
14. I keep some people’s numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call.
15. I think the freezer deserves a light as well.
16. I disagree with Kay Jewelers. I would bet on any given Friday or Saturday night that more kisses begin with Miller Lite than Kay.
17. I wish Google Maps had an “Avoid Ghetto” routing option.
18. I sometimes have a hard time deciphering the fine line between boredom and hunger.
19. How many times is it appropriate to say “what?” before you just nod and smile because you still didn’t hear or understand a word they said?
20. I love the sense of camaraderie when an entire line of cars team up to prevent a jerk from cutting in at the front. Stay strong, brothers and sisters!
21. Shirts get dirty. Underwear gets dirty. Pants? Pants never get dirty, and you can wear them forever.
22. Sometimes I’ll look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and still not know what time it is.
23. Even under ideal conditions people have trouble locating their car keys in a pocket, finding their cell phone, and pinning the tail on the donkey – but I’d bet everyone can find and push the snooze button from 3 feet away, in about 1.7 seconds, eyes closed, first time, every time.
24. The first testicular guard, the “Cup,” was used in hockey in 1874 and the first helmet was used in 1974. That means it only took 100 years for men to realize that their brain is also important.

Vidazorb Coupon

Vidazorb® wishes you a prosperous and healthy new year.  As part of our commitment to you, we are offering 30% off at the
Vidazorb® online store to help you start 2011 in good health.

Just use coupon code CNY30 in our online store.

Neat-Oh!

COOL TOY ALERT!
Ok, I saw these awesome toys from NEAT-OH! at the Chicago Toy and Game Fair in November.  They were so much fun, I actually stopped to play with a few of them, LOL, and I am super excited to have the chance to tell you guys all about them.
These are called Zip Bin, and they are great playsets that you can take-along anywhere and everywhere. 
I think by now you know I love toys that are easy to take with you from place to place.  These toys do that and more!  They are not only fun and functional, but easy!  Check it out-

First it's a bag that keeps it's shape (structural integrity, imagine that!), then it unfolds into a play mat with toys that go with it's theme.  There are many themes to choose from- anything from cars to farms to castles.  Then you can really quickly and easily (THANK YOU, really, it's easy!) ZIP, and it's ready to go!  Truly- you just zip it.  I was sure it was going to be difficult, but it was just 4 zippers, one on each corner- and no more complicated then zipping up a lunchbox.  Less complicated then zipping up a coat, acctually.  I LOVE THIS TOY.  I love it.  This one is called "Small Town", and includes two die cast (like Matchbox) cars.  (Look how cute the lid is- it is for car storage, but looks like a parking lot.  See what I mean?  Fun and function!  There is even a Handicapped space, how thoughtful!) 
It is for sure Little Man approved, as well.


The kids at the Pre-K loved it- as you can see it was a hit! 

ZipBin® Small Town Toy Box & Playmat 
Description
This small village activity center works well for cars, trucks, planes, trains and construction equipment. A special feature is the "parking lot" (elasticized pockets) for storing lots of small cars under the lid. When play is done, the Playscape™ becomes a toy bin in a zip, capturing the toys inside for easy clean up! This Playset includes race cars.

Specs:

• Colorful, durable, wipe-clean surfaces
• Stackable, portable and collapses flat for storage
• Sturdy, heavy-duty zippers
• Lid fasteners
• Clear label holder for identifying contents
• Meets child safety standards
• Patent pending
  
  ZipBin™ Small Town Play Set (A1041XX)
• Size: Small
• Dimensions:
  Bin: 13 x 11 x 8 inches
  Mat: 27.5 x 24.5 inches

I can't say enough how much I love this.  It has come everywhere with us- to the Pre-k, to the Dr, to grandma's, to the grocery store, out to dinner....and I'm not making him take it!  It's fun for him, and it's easy to carry.  He loves it as much as I do, which is great.  You know how difficult it is to find something you and your child both like!
Oh, and when ketchup gets on it?  Wipe it off, it is easy to clean. 
Everyplace we have gone, someone has either told me how cool it was or asked me where we got it.  I have to tell you, every once in a while, there is a product that makes me wish I had it's company's business cards to hand out- this way when people ask, I can say- Why, NEAT-OH, of course!  Here's a card, have fun!
LOL.

 There are so many variates to choose from!
Here are two more that we get to try out- I'm going to be posting on those, later.  Stay tuned for pictures and updates on NEAT-OH Zip Bin Products! 

Check them out HERE! 
You can follow Neat-OH!  on Twitter HERE and on Facebook HERE

UGH!!!

OK, is anyone else having an issue getting stumble onto their site????  Grrr....

Winners Emailed!

WINNERS!!!
Think Geek- My biggest EVER!- Winner-Jennifer
Disney Princesses on Ice- Winner-Aileen
Funky Monkey Snacks- Winner-Dana

Congrats to you all!!!!   :)

Check this out! Crazy!

Crazy snow video- only 38 seconds- it's nuts! 

http://tv.gawker.com/5718915/the-best-blizzard-time+lapse-video-youll-see-today

Dana

Dana- I wish I had a WARM Christmas, LOL
I am SOOOO jealous of your FL Christmas! 
You are jealous of all my snow- I want your weather- lets trade!  HAHA....
:)
~Samantha

Extra Entries Opportunities!!

For 5 bonus entries into ANY of my current contests, please consider writing a review of HSWT on Alexa.

If you like my site, please consider giving me a review on Alexa.  (You can find a link to my site on Alexa right below the We're On the Fence! Button- it says "Do you like my site?  Please Rate it on Alexa" on a black button.  )
+5 Entries

On a side note, I would also really appreciate it.  :)
Thanks!
~Samantha

Winners!

Winners emailed!
Cool Kidz- Lisa
Charm Factory- Geri
Aunt Nellies- Aileen

will update as confirmed!  CONGRATS!!!

Twisted Scavenger

Snatched right off of Blessed Element's page, here is a post about Twisted Scavenger.  I have singed up, and I hope to see you guys there, as well!

Twisted Scavenger.Com- A fun Blog Hop that is so much more.

If you haven’t traveled over to Twisted Scavenger then let me give you some information and tell you how this is going to work for you and your blog. Twisted Scavenger is so much more than a normal blog hop. It has a members area where it works to promote your site. RSS feeds are blasted out so other members become aware of your site’s blog and facebook page to increase traffic to your site.
Think of the members area as a facebook for bloggers and you may come to understand how valuable of a tool this site can be for you. There is a forum and one of the topics is Free Give-Aways…A perfect place for you to announce your new give away.
It connects you to other bloggers and also games and free giveaways for just members in the members area.
We all blog about the same prompt on Twisted Thursday but don’t be mistaken in thought that this will handicap you in anyway if you are a photo blogger, recipe blogger, ect. Think of it as a challenge. How well can you convey the prompt in photos. Can you back up your prompt with a recipe? Fun, right?
If you were drawn to blogging from the desire to creative write then there is something at Twisted Scavenger for you. Another day will be devoted for Creative Writing Jams where one blogger starts a story line and then each one that follows continues to write and eventually end the story with a Scavenger Hunt taking place through out the story line.
Twisted Scavenger promises to be fun and a worthwhile site that will give your blog traffic.
Visit Twisted Scavenger for more information or go directly to the sign up page and become a member

Christmas Pics!

making cookies for Santa! 

Christmas Eve

hanging out Christmas morning

How was your Christmas?

So, how was your day?
We went to my mom's Christmas Eve's, and my dad's Christmas Day.  Had to see everyone, LOL.
The kids are nuts, and now it is snowing like crazy!  I'm actually hoping for a "snow day" tomorrow- come on, snow!  It's going crazy out there!  ALMOST a white Christmas.

Do you have super cute pics?
I'm going to have to upload mine, but in the meantime, if you have any you'd like to share, feel free to post them to HSWT's Facebook Page, or post a link to your post containing them or to your Holiday Post, and I will post them tomorrow.  If you don't blog and don't have a Facebook but still want to share, shoot me an email  :)
And I'm off to upload, LOL.....
Have a great day!
~Samantha

Acquaessentials.com Review and Contest

What is more relaxing then a spa treatment?  How nice would it be to have one?  If you are like me, that is just not in the cards very often, if at all.  Well, if the momma can't go to the spa, the spa must go to the momma!  Enter, AcquaEssentials.com!  Makers of all things ahhhh.......
AcquaEssentials.com brings unique and amazing beauty and skin care products from the most distinctive spas in Europe and Latin America exclusively online.  The Caviahue, Mondariz, and Excel Biocosmetics lines of skin care products helps skin feel smoother, softer, and younger.  The end result is healthier skin that feels rejuvenated and is beautiful to the touch. 
I got to review a product from the Caviahue line.  These products are based with the renowned thermal water from Caviahue, a pristine spa located in the heart of the Andes Mountain Range in Patagonia.  I reviewed the Thermal Mud.  (How fun is that?  I got to have a Mud Mask, how very I Love Lucy!) 
NO, I am not posting pictures, LOL. 
You will just have to imagine the beauty that was me!
(Hehehe.)
It felt really nice.  My skin was so soft, and so smooth.  And I felt special, getting to have a spa treatment, and taking a few minutes for me!  I waited until the kids were in bed, took a shower, put on the mask, and layed in bed and read a book for awhile.  Yeah yeah, look at me! 

Diminish the signs of aging now! Caviahue Thermal Mud is one of the most unique skin care products and deep cleansing facial masks in the world. One of its main ingredients is the thermal waters that flow from the inside of a volcano and are charged with the right minerals and oxygenated properties that purify the skin, leaving it smoother, softer and beautiful. You will feel a natural lifting of your facial and neck skin when you use the thermal mud regularly and as instructed.

Benefits

• Helps diminish the signs of aging
• Deeply cleans and purifies
• Unclogs pores and allows your skin to breathe
• Provides the balanced blend of minerals from Caviahue thermal water and Caviahue volcanic clay
• Leaves the skin smoother, softer and absolutely beautiful

How to use: This is a very special product, so if it is possible, start with a relaxed atmosphere, but do begin with a clean face free of any makeup or other lotions.

1. Take a generous amount into your hands and apply it directly to your face and front of your neck.
2. Avoid contact with your eyes, nostrils and mouth. Leave the mud on your face to dry for about 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Clear it with warm water and a wet sponge.
4. A final rinse will leave your skin feeling clean and vibrant. We recommend that you use our mud once or twice a week.

10.58 oz

Caviahue makes a whole line of great products-
      Deep Clean & Smooth Package

      Deluxe Nourishment Package

      Maximum Facial Package

      Caviahue Thermal Water

      Caviahue Anti Wrinkle Cream

      Caviahue Nourishing-Mosturizing Cream

      Caviahue Thermal Mud

      Caviahue Eye Contour Cream

They are on the pricey side, but I think a little splurge one in a while can be a good thing.  Reminds us we are worth it.  (We spend it on our kids, on our spouse, on our homes- why not on ourselves every once in a while?)
You can order it here


Want to win the same Thermal Mud from AcquaEsssentials.com that I reviewed?
Here is how to enter!

Mandatory entry

You must be a public follower on Google Friend Connect.
Leave me your email so I can contact you if you win.

 Extra Entries
Leave a separate comment for each entry.

- Sign up for Acquaessentials's newsletter

- Follow Acquaessentials on Twitter and tweet about this contest

- If you are a fan on Acquaessentials on Facebook, you get an extra entry.  

(I would also love it if you mentioned that Have Sippy Will Travel sent you- never required, of course, but always appreciated!)

-If you are a fan of Have Sippy Will Travel on Facebook you get two extra entries- feel free to leave some comment love! 
+2 entries

-Subscribe to Have Sippy Will Travel by email, and confirm subscription
+3 entries

- Follow me on Twitter ( you can use my adorable button to the side!) and tweet about this contest
Please make sure you follow first!
+2 entries
(you can tweet daily!)

- If you like my site, please consider giving me a review on Alexa.  (You can find a link to my site on Alexa right below the We're On the Fence! Button- it says "Do you like my site?  Please Rate it on Alexa" on a black button.  )
+5 Entries

- "like" this post on Facebook 

- Leave me a comment on Facebook about what contests you are entering on Have Sippy Will Travel or would like to see! 

- Email a friend about this contest, with a CC to me at  kangabunnie@gmail.com
(you get an extra entry if they enter, too!)

 -Add my button to your blog, and leave me the link so I can find it

- Follow me on "Networked Blogs"

- blog about this giveaway, and link back to this contest (leave me the URL in comment, please)

-Add me to your blogroll, with a link back to me

- Vote for me on "We're On The Fence!"  (Just Click the Button to the left that says "We're On the Fence" until it confirms you voted for your's truly!)

- enter another one of my giveaways (one entry per giveaway entered)

- comment on a recent non-giveaway post

Yay, so many ways to win! Good luck!

DISCLOSURE: A product sample was provided for review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed in this post are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
No purchase necessary.  Void where prohibited by law.  Limited to US residents; 18 years old and above.  Sponsor is responsible for providing and sending prize.  Ends Jan 15, 2011.

DISCLOSURE: A product sample was provided for review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed in this post are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Cute Coloring page

Cute page from Vidazorb- Little Man's Probiotic of Choice- that your kids can color.  That little "buzzy bee", as Little calls him is so cute!  I printed one out for him to color, and he was excited to color his "buzzy bee" in. 
Also- it's the last day to tweet in Vidazorb's 12 days of Christmas Contest!  Hope you are tweeting!!!  

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas!

Hope Santa was good to ya'll!
Have a great day with friends and family, with your church, and everywhere else that you celebrate today.
Love to you, and see you back in bloggy land really soon!!!!
~Samantha

Vidazorb- you know I love it, LOL

ONLY 1 DAY UNTIL CHRISTMAS!!!

This holiday Vidazorb® would like to thank those of
you who made this year extra special! We are running an
exclusive promotion for you, our valued customers.

For 12 days Vidazorb® will be giving out prizes including a
FREE bottle of Super C and 11 infectiously cute microbe plush toys!!!
Our 12 Days of Vidazorb song will hint the prize of the day.


To get one of your own, you must:
1) Use Twitter or Facebook to leave a tweet or
comment telling us your favorite reindeer.
Each day we'll announce a new prize and a new winner
on Twitter and Facebook!

Merry Christmas!

I hope you and yours have a wonderful Christmas.  If you are not celebrating this holiday, then I hope that you have a peaceful night  :)

Peace and love to you all, thanks for being a part of my life and letting me be a part of yours,  

 Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Wrapping!

Hey ya'll- I finally NEED to get to wrapping the Christmas gifts- we do most of the Celebrating tomorrow- we are Italian, and it's the whole "fishes" thing, LOL
Sorry, be back!
PEACE AND LOVE!
~Samantha

Have Yourself a Movie Little Christmas- a fun review!

Best gift for movie buffs ever!
I seem to be in the mood for books lately, LOL.  Well, anyone who knows me will tell you I am a big reader!  (And I know quite a few of you are my "Goodreads" Friends, and we all know what we read, LOL) 
I got to read this fun and festive book- Have Yourself a Movie Little Christmas, by Alonso Duralde.  I am not the world's biggest movie buff- that title goes to a friend of mine, LOL.  However, there are some HUGE movie fans in my circle- an uncle, my good friend, and my husband are all SUPER into movie facts and trivia.  (I don't even watch that many, LOL) 
Regardless, this was a "Good Read".  It was a really fun book, full of fun facts, interesting tidbits, and information on all your favorites, past and present.  I do love the "oldies", and I am very into the "Old Hollywood" actors and actresses and the whole bygone era- those are things I like to read about!  There were great parts of this book dedicated to actors of the 30's, of the classic "It's a Wonderful Life", and so many more. 
You can read about anything even remotely having to do with Christmas- the classics, the family themes, holiday horror and gore (ew), Crime, kitch, you name it, it's in here!
Do you have a movie buff on your list?  This is the gift for them- it will be their favorite gift this year! 

"It is my pleasure to introduce you to the hilarious and informative holiday film book, Have Yourself a Movie Little Christmas to be released by Limelight Editions on October 15, 2010. Don't waste another second of your valuable holiday time on another boring Christmas movie. Film critic Alonso Duralde highlights the best – and worst – movies of the Yuletide season with this fun and informative film guide. Whether you're looking for the classics, family favorites, holiday horror, Christmas-themed crime epics, or the most wonderfully awful cinematic lumps of coal, Have Yourself a Movie Little Christmas will point you and your rental queue in the right direction."

Intentional Conscious Parenting: Green Man Craft By Guest Author Grace From Blessed Elements

Intentional Conscious Parenting: Green Man Craft By Guest Author Grace From Blessed Elements

CSN Review!

Don't you just LOVE CSN?  CSN Stores have so many options to choose from, when you go shopping for one thing, it's hard not to go and pick something else up, too, LOL....
Case in point?
My husband wanted a Marinade Injector.  This one looked great!











He's been wanting one forever, and Christmas is a great time to give wonderful cooking presents (and CSN has some great cookware partners!) because I get to benefit from his cooking, LOL. 

We also picked up a Microwave Popcorn Popping Corn Bowl, because it looked like fun, and a good way to eat popcorn without all that unhealthy chemical flavoring those boxed brands can add. 

But then what happened?  I got sidetracked.  It's bad, very bad! LOL.....There were these great toy sets from Wild Republic, and well.....I got one.  Or, I guess, Santa did.  I wasn't going to, but, there it was, and then all the sudden it was in my cart, and I was checking out- I just don't know how it happened!  Honest!  (Hehe)
Wild Republic Eco Expedition Ocean Dive

All in all, a good shopping trip!  Hey, 2 of the items are useful!  One is just for fun.  I can't help it, when it comes to my little boogie, it's just too much fun sometimes, haha. 
Happy Shopping!

DISCLOSURE: A product sample was provided for review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed in this post are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Some Good News- from you!

 Thanks for telling me all about your good news!  Grace, your post was inspirational, and the timing was excellent, LOL.

Judy, isn't it funny how it is always the small things we don't notice?  Are you all feeling better now that you are sleeping all night?  Haha, that was a good one for the "mommy logs"!

And Happy Homemaker and Momma- wow, you had a lot of good news!  

Good for you on all counts!

and I am headed over to read all about it!  Have a great day, Bloggy Buddies!  And thanks again for your comments.  Love them! 

~Samantha

 

Grace said...

Here is my link to my other good news. http://www.blessedelements.com/goinggreen/?p=1388

December 21, 2010 7:03 PM 

Judy said...

My good news is that after 2 weeks of my children waking up multiple times a night, I finally figured out why. Their night light was too bright! I unplugged it and everyone is sleeping so much better :)

December 21, 2010 8:35 PM 

 

Happy Homemaker And Momma said...

It took me a month but I finished my scarf that I was crocheting and I finally got my other giveaway posted today-as well as I started going to the gym and feel great:) http://happyhomemakerandmomma.blogspot.com/2010/12/i-finished-my-scarf.html

Roman Town

We recently had the chance to host a party from MommyParties & MomSelect and Roman Town, from Dig It Games!  They make some great interactive educational games for kids.  This is a great archeological dig where you get to stay clean!
It was so much fun!
Ok, so you know I am a history Geek, yes?
So to me, this is super fab.  I LOVE it.  What is better then having fun while learning?
(And I also saw Roman Town at ChiTAG, before I knew I would be hosting this party!  How is that for fun!) 
I know we were supposed to host "a" party, but I used it in 3 places. 
What can I say, I got excited.
First I brought it to our girl scout troop meeting. The girls had so much fun with it!  I love to show the girls new things, and I also feel it is important to give them new ideas about future occupations.  As girl scouts, they are always working with thier hands and learning.  And as you know- knowledge is power! 
We got to use our computer skills, learn history, and learn about archaeology.

I gave it to the leader of another scout troop to try, a friend of mine's boy scout troop.  I went over everything with her, gave her the game, and viola! 
I attended the boy scout meeting as a guest, and the boys had as much fun as the girls did! 
Not only were some of the boys very into it just based on the "computer" or "game" aspect of it, but I saw a few of them truly interested.  It was nice to see kids paying attention to something that didn't involve a text message or some TV show or bathroom humor, LOL.

Of course, I brought it to the Pre-k.  Some of the kids are too young, but we have some 5 and 6 year olds who "got it" and had fun with some "one on one" time.  It's never too eary to instill a love of learning and a love of history, or to get them interested in the past. 

I also have intentions of brining it with me to a Youth Group activity at my church, but I am waiting on the "say so" of the "higher-ups" on that one, LOL.  I can't imagine they will say no, but I always like to be sure!
This is a really cool game, and I want to expose all the kids I can to it. 

(I also want to share an apology.  Bloggy Buddies, I have no photos and video to share with you for this party.  You know that I am a shutter-bug, so I am quite sorry about this!  As you know, in early December my computer crashed.  Because I back up every 15 days, I was able to recover most of my files and photos, but this happened right after we hosted the party.  I had not backed up yet, and as I could not re-host the same party, there was not much I could do about that.  These were among the things I lost when my computer crashed.  I also want to thank the sponsors for understanding. )

A bit about the game-
"Play Roman Town and discover the answers for yourself – like a professional archaeologist.

Roll up your sleeves, dig in, and excavate Fossura, a Roman town destroyed in 79 AD when Mount Vesuvius erupted.   Unearth buildings, find ancient artifacts, dig up priceless treasures and, just maybe, uncover the remains of Roman villagers.

Play Roman Town and learn about the important Roman contributions to art, architecture, language, and more.   Solve mysterious secrets about Roman life and discover how kids like you lived centuries ago.

Play Roman Town and explore real Roman life, experience their day-to-day activities and cultural richness, in realistic 3D graphics.  Excavate buildings, removing the dirt layer by layer, and reconstruct rare artifacts piece by piece.

Roman Town is the premier archaeology computer game – it’s fun, amazingly fun!
Buy Roman Town and dig in!"

Bonus?  Here is a COUPON OFFER:  20% off with coupon code BLOG20 valid through 1/31/11.  
Hooray for coupons!!!

DISCLOSURE: A product sample was provided for review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed in this post are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. I reviewed this as part of  MommyParties & MomSelect

Tell us your GOOD NEWS!

I had SUCH a day today, bloggy buddies! 
I'd love to hear some good news.
Did you kid look adorable in their Holiday Play?  Did you get a fab Holiday Bonus?  Did your baby let you sleep in today?  (Anything good, send the good news over!)

I'd love to hear some YAY!
If you have a blog wrote a post, or put up a cute photo,  leave the link and I will post them all tomorrow.  Spread the Holiday Cheer, haha...

Kathryn the Grape- Review and Contest

There is a "magical" children's book that recently came out, called "Kathryn the Grape".  If you have never heard of it, let me have the pleasure of making the introduction!  Kathryn is not just your ordinary girl- she is magical!  She carries a magical wand with her everywhere she goes, and her fairy friend, Magggie, comes along, too.  Kathryn knows that all she needs to do is wave her wand to make things go her way- but it only works for GOOD things (she was not able to turn her brothers into frogs, for example).  She can rid herself of nervous bubbles at a new school, and banish monsters from beneath her bed.  She also knows when someone needs her magic.  When she sees a boy all by himself, she knows he is lonely and that he needs a friend. 
This book is a great way to remind kids that they have the same "magic" inside them, they just need to believe in themselves and they will be able to accomplish thier goals and overcome thier fears (monsters or no!) 
Kathryn is a loveable character and the story is sweet.

"Kathryn the Grape…a world where magic is our muse. A world where wonder and whimsy cultivate courage and creativity. A world where stories inspire children to connect with others, with nature, and with the universe. A world that teaches us to live a purposeful life. A magical life.

Kathryn the Grape is a series of children’s books series that depicts a young girl’s journey into awakening, into embracing her inner muse—her inner magic. We invite you to explore our website and discover a world of information about Kathryn the Grape and her closest companions: Maggie, Jennie Dog and Lacigam.

Join us on Facebook and Twitter to receive frequent updates on new books, products, and all the magic Kathryn the Grape has at her fingertips!?


And they give back too!  Check this out!
$1.00 from every book sold on KathryntheGrape.com is donated to nonprofit agencies.  Find out more about how we give back through the Kathryn the Grape Foundation.

Want to win a copy?
Here's how to enter!

Mandatory entry

You must be a public follower on Google Friend Connect.
Leave me your email so I can contact you if you win.

 Extra Entries
Leave a separate comment for each entry.

- Follow Kathryn the Grape on Twitter and tweet about this contest

- If you are a fan on Kathryn the Grape on Facebook, you get an extra entry.  

(I would also love it if you mentioned that Have Sippy Will Travel sent you- never required, of course, but always appreciated!)

-If you are a fan of Have Sippy Will Travel on Facebook you get two extra entries- feel free to leave some comment love! 
+2 entries

-Subscribe to Have Sippy Will Travel by email, and confirm subscription
+3 entries

- Follow me on Twitter ( you can use my adorable button to the side!) and tweet about this contest
Please make sure you follow first!
+2 entries
(you can tweet daily!) 

- "like" this post on Facebook 

- Leave me a comment on Facebook about what contests you are entering on Have Sippy Will Travel or would like to see! 

- Email a friend about this contest, with a CC to me at  kangabunnie@gmail.com
(you get an extra entry if they enter, too!)

 -Add my button to your blog, and leave me the link so I can find it

- Follow me on "Networked Blogs"

- blog about this giveaway, and link back to this contest (leave me the URL in comment, please)

-Add me to your blogroll, with a link back to me

- Vote for me on "We're On The Fence!"  (Just Click the Button to the left that says "We're On the Fence" until it confirms you voted for your's truly!)

- enter another one of my giveaways (one entry per giveaway entered)

- comment on a recent non-giveaway post

Yay, so many ways to win! Good luck!

DISCLOSURE: A product sample was provided for review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed in this post are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
No purchase necessary.  Void where prohibited by law.  Limited to US residents; 18 years old and above.  Sponsor is responsible for providing and sending prize.  Ends Jan 5, 2011.

DISCLOSURE: A product sample was provided for review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed in this post are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Feel like Getting Twisted?

A new kind of Blog Hop is set to start in early Jan 2011- check it out and join up!
Twisted Scavenger!

Salt Dough Contest

Blessed Elements is hosting a Salt Dough Contest over on her site- How cute is that? 

http://www.blessedelements.com/goinggreen/?p=1283

Head on over and enter, good luck!

Worry Woos winner- still waiting on your confirmation!

Please check your inboxes, I have a winner at large!  LOL

THE WITCHY WORRIES OF ABBIE ADAMS- Upgraded to Contest!

Yay, now you can win a copy, too!
To win a copy of this adorable book, please go here-
http://havesippywilltravel.blogspot.com/2010/12/review-witchy-worries-of-abbie-adams.html

 Have Fun, and Good Luck!
~Samantha

Winners emailed!

Make sure you are checking your inbox!
Winners.....

Aroma Home- Dara
Immunet- Sherrie
Worry Woos-Laura! 
Life Without Plastic- Dana!  (that was fast!) 
Go! Go! Sports Dolls-Lisa

Congrats winners!  As usual, I will fill in the names as they confirm their wins  :)

More Salt Dough Fun....

Here are some more Salt Dough Ornaments- first Blessed Elements, now Life is a Sandcastle!  How cute!
Anyone else like to make these?

The Wonder Forge- A Great Site for Family Fun!

I was recently blessed to work with a really fun company, called The Wonder Forge.  (How fun is that name, LOL)  
The Wonder Forge has fabulous games, great for spending time together as a family.  With winter having set in and making many outdoor activities an impossibility for the next few months, now is a great time to find some great games to play and keep the little ones entertained during those long, cold winter nights!  (And a great gift idea, too!) 

The Wonder Forge has a wonderfully wide selection of games, as well.  I loved their variety- they had games that I had never seen before.  They have a fantastic selection of games they call "I Can Do That!" games for Preschoolers- what a great idea!  Nice way to break it down for parents.  And you know I love it when kids can learn while being entertained!  What's better then that?

Little Man and Kamikaze had a blast with them!  We were sent a few of these Award Winning Games- including "What's In the Cat's Hat?", an Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Best Toy Award Platinum winner.

 The way it works (in short) is that you put a "secret" object into the Cat's Hat, and the players take turns guessing what is inside by using their 5 senses (but not seeing the whole object) and by asking questions on the game cards.  When there are no cards left, the person who put the object into the hat is the winner.  If someone guesses before that, they are the winner. 
The kids really enjoyed it.  
We also got to try out Little Man's favorite, the "Chuggington Matching Game"!   C'mon, you know your little conductor would love it, LOL.

This one is simple- you flip the cards over so they all show the same red back.

Then you need to pay attention so that you can remember where the cards are, and make matches!  Remember to adjust the number of cards you play with for the age of your players.  Use less cards for younger players, to avoid frustration and increase concentration skills.  (I am SO taking this to the Pre-k!)
Last, but not least, comes Konexi- the gravity defying word game.  This one won the Oppenheim Gold Best Toy Award.  It was too advanced for Little Man, but Kamikaze is old enough where she can begin to grasp the concept. 

"Konexi is the 3D word-building game that will have you pushing your luck and on the edge of your seat! Take turns adding letters to a teetering tower of words. Go for longer words — upward, downward, or sideways — to score more points. But watch out...the next letter may cause gravity to kick in and a Konexi collapse! It’s thrilling fun for the whole family!"

Available now in specialty stores and at Barnes & Noble.

The games at The Wonder Forge have won a bevvy of awards- here are a few, just so you know I'm not kidding when I say they have only the very best for your child!

Impressive, no?
Take a wander on over- they have so many games to see, you will be sure to find something you love.  And you can follow them on Twitter and FaceBook to stay on top of all the best Wonder Forge news- I know I am, I don't want to miss out!
Happy Gaming, all!

DISCLOSURE: A product sample was provided for review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed in this post are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. 

A Question for You!

'Tis the season...we are all thinking about gifts- gifts to give, buy, make, send, etc.
This got me to thinking- what is the best gift you have ever gotten?
I know Ms. Grace over at Blessed Elements is a big fan of making Christmas gifts, and one year that is all she did- no store bought.  She was writing all about how her grandkids really looked forward to them, to see what she created.
I was wondering what some of your favorites were?
And what was your favorite gift giving experience?
I'd love a little feedback on this one.   
Have a Holly Jolly Monday, LOL!
~Samantha

Review- THE WITCHY WORRIES OF ABBIE ADAMS and new CONTEST!

 I was recently sent an adorable Middle Grades ("Tween") book to review, called "The Witchy Worries of Abbie Adams". 
It was such a sweet, good read.  Well written, with fun and conversational dialogue that makes for a pleasant and enjoyable read.  Your child will really like it! 
The book ranges on such familiar topics as family, siblings, school, fitting in, friends, and all sorts of situations that we can all relate to- even those of us who have never experienced preforming magic! 
"The Witchy Worries of Abbie Adams" is a great book for kids who love to read, but is "light" enough for those who struggle with reading to enjoy as well- and may encourage them to give reading another try.  I am a firm believer in giving kids a wide range of books to choose from- those that love to read will find so many books appealing.  Those that don't, may need to try a few to find out why reading is wonderful  Abbie Adams may just be able to cast her spell on your child- I know she enchanted me!

Here is a bit about the book-
"Abbie Adams is a regular eleven-year old girl with normal problems like a really strict-fifth grade teacher. (Meet Miss Linegar. Rhymes with vinegar.) She's chronically behind in homework, forced to keep a big secret from her very best friend and hoping like heck she can remember all her lines in the drama club play. But Abbie also happens to be a witch and in addition to everything else, she has to cope with stuff like her little brother morphing into a werewolf and trying to eat his first-grade teacher...not to mention figuring out what exactly is up with her very, very peculiar cat."

My opinion?  Fun read, great book.  If you have a tween, or an early reader and are working on chapter books with them, this is a good one to have.  This is author Rhonda Hayter's first book, but I am hoping we will hear more from her, and maybe even more from Abbie!   Ms. Hayter did a great job with the dialogue, the storyline, and in general creating a light and fun story that kids will love to read and re-read.  We have all been Abbie at some point, kids all go though these moments. Your child will appreciate this creative viewpoint of everyday life. 

 

 Would you like a chance to win a copy of this spellbinding book?

 Here is how to enter!  (USA and Canada only, please)

Mandatory entry

You must be a public follower on Google Friend Connect.
Leave me your email so I can contact you if you win.

 Extra Entries
Leave a separate comment for each entry.

- Go to The Witchy Worries website.  Tell me something you learned or liked.  (Not something I wrote, please- the author is looking for feedback  :)  )

-If you are a fan of Have Sippy Will Travel on Facebook you get two extra entries- feel free to leave some comment love! 
+2 entries

-Subscribe to Have Sippy Will Travel by email, and confirm subscription
+3 entries

- Follow me on Twitter ( you can use my adorable button to the side!) and tweet about this contest
Please make sure you follow first!
+2 entries
(you can tweet daily!) 

- "like" this post on Facebook 

- Leave me a comment on Facebook about what contests you are entering on Have Sippy Will Travel or would like to see! 

- Email a friend about this contest, with a CC to me at  kangabunnie@gmail.com
(you get an extra entry if they enter, too!)

 -Add my button to your blog, and leave me the link so I can find it

- Follow me on "Networked Blogs"

- blog about this giveaway, and link back to this contest (leave me the URL in comment, please)

-Add me to your blogroll, with a link back to me

- Vote for me on "We're On The Fence!"  (Just Click the Button to the left that says "We're On the Fence" until it confirms you voted for your's truly!)

- enter another one of my giveaways (one entry per giveaway entered)

- comment on a recent non-giveaway post

Yay, so many ways to win! Good luck!

DISCLOSURE: A product sample was provided for review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed in this post are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
No purchase necessary.  Void where prohibited by law.  Limited to US residents; 18 years old and above.  Sponsor is responsible for providing and sending prize.  Ends Jan 3, 2011.

Fa La La La La....

Watching Christmas Movies, eating dinner in the living room (because the Christmas Tree is here) and what's for dinner, you ask?  Why, Christmas Nachos, of course!  Why are they Christmas Nachos?  Because Daddy says they are.   Sooo....I guess nachos are Christmas food now. 

In case you are wondering.

Santa, wake up!

Little and Kamikaze's first trip to Santa this year.  No tears, Hooray!  Too bad Santa had his eyes closed, LOL.

The Time Machine- Live Show Review

Yesterday, we saw a "Radio Theater" performance of H. G. Well's classic "The Time Machine", directed by  Dan Bianchi.  Preformed at The Red Room (85 East 4^th Street), December 14-19, 21 & 22, and 28 & 29 at 8pm with matinee performances December 12 & 19 at 3pm. Tickets ($20/$15 students & seniors) are available by calling Smarttix at 212-868-4444 or online at www.horseTRADE.info.

This was an interesting piece, reminiscent of the days where one got their entertainment gathered around the family radio set, rather then the TV or computer.  In in intimate setting, we were treated to a reading of one of the most famous pieces of Science fiction ever written.  Called "Radio Theater" because of it's likening to the performances on the radio (complete with audio effects like walking across the leaves, etc) but without the visual of the actual person producing the effects.  Preformed by two actors, FRANK ZILINYI and KATE SIEPERT who acted as the genius gentlemen traveller and his wife.  The genius gentleman has created a machine in which he is able to transport himself through time- he goes to the far distant future.  He experiences a variety of situations which he relates to his wife in a single conversation between them
This was modified for the stage performance from the original "Time Machine", where the time traveler accounts his adventures to a group of weekly dinner guests.

HORSE TRADE THEATER GROUP

                                                                       PRESENTS

RADIOTHEATRE

                                                                              IN

   H.G. WELLS’ THE TIME MACHINE

WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY DAN BIANCHI

LIMITED ENGAGEMENT!

DECEMBER 12-29 @ THE RED ROOM

Blast off with the Drama Desk nominated Radiotheatre and their new live stage version of the most influential science fiction story of all time…H.G.Wells’ THE TIME MACHINE! Complete with a great cast of storytellers, an elaborate soundscape, and an original orchestral score!

“IN SHORT, IF YOU LOVE WELLS, SCI-FI and HORROR genres, this dramatization will prove enjoyable...so program your time machines and BLAST OFF for an evening!" Off Off Online

“STUNNING!” Sci Fi Channel

“Brings to mind Vincent Price and Victorian Era Full moons!” New York Times

“Spooky, Shocking, Horrific!” Time Out NY

“A Sound Extravaganza!” Variety

“Elegant and Vivid Storytelling” nytheatre.com

“A Ton of Fun!” The Villager

“Dan Bianchi’s sound design is Marvelous!” The Village Voice

“Ominous, Eerie, Monster Movie sound effects!” Backstage

“Radiotheatre is a vibrant force for NYC stage shows!” Hy Reviews

“Creepy!” American Theatre Magazine

“Horrific! Evocative! Rousing! Engaging! Chilling!” Off Off Online

“A Sound Spectacular! A real Gem!” NYC.Com

“An evening of spine chilling, goose bump rising, fun filled entertainment!” Retrovision Media

THE TIME MACHINE will feature Frank Zilinyi and Aleksandra Sczczepanowska with Original Music and Sound Design by Dan Bianchi and Sound Engineering by Wes Shippee. 

 

FRANK ZILINYI has appeared in Radiotheatre's The Haunting of 85 East 4th Street 2006/10, Frankenstein, Dracula, The War of the Worlds, The Invisible Man, King Kong 08, Dracula's Guest, The Black Cat, The Pit and the Pendulum, The Tell Tale Heart, The Oval Portrait, The Murders in the Rue Morgue, The Sphinx, William Wilson, The Case of M.Valdemar, The Oblong Box, Hop Frog, The Premature Burial, The Masque of the Red Death, The System of Dr.Tarr and Prof.Fether, The Cask of Amontillado. For Inwood Shakespeare Festival: Zorro, Dracula, The Arabian Nights, The Three Musketeers, The Merry Wives of Windsor, Treasure Island

KATE SIEPERT recently appeared as Joyce in RUFFIAN ON THE STAIR (Joe Orton Festival, The Secret Theatre). Other favorite productions include: SERVANT OF TWO MASTERS (The Secret Theatre, NY); JANE AUSTEN'S EMMA (Tobacco Factory, UK); BRÖNTE (BOVTS, UK); OTHELLO (BOVTS, UK); MERCHANT OF VENICE (McPherson Theatre, IL); SEVEN DEADLY SINS (Live Bait Theatre, IL). Kate also trained & performed for 5 years at Chicago’s ImprovOlympic. She holds a BFA from Illinois Wesleyan University and a Masters Certificate in Acting from the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School in the UK. www.katesiepert.com

The show was really cool, a cerebral experience, where  you could visualize the story in your mind.  I really liked the lack of "show" and the the story unfolding in front of us, where we could feel transported (like the time traveler himself!)  

Here is a short synapses of the book, and therefor the show! 

The book's protagonist is an English scientist and gentleman inventor living in Richmond, Surrey, identified by a narrator simply as the Time Traveller. The narrator recounts the Traveller's lecture to his weekly dinner guests that time is simply a fourth dimension, and his demonstration of a tabletop model machine for travelling through it. He reveals that he has built a machine capable of carrying a person, and returns at dinner the following week to recount a remarkable tale, becoming the new narrator:
The Time Traveller tests his device with a journey that takes him to the year 802,701 A.D., where he meets the Eloi, a society of small, elegant, androgynous, and childlike people. They live in small communities within large and futuristic yet slowly deteriorating buildings, doing no work and having a frugivorous diet. His efforts to communicate with them are hampered by their lack of curiosity or discipline, and he speculates that they are a peaceful communist society, the result of humanity conquering nature with technology, and subsequently evolving to adapt to an environment in which strength and intellect are no longer advantageous to survival.
Returning to the site where he arrived, the Time Traveller finds his time machine missing, and eventually works out that it has been dragged by some unknown party into a nearby structure with heavy doors, locked from the inside. Later in the dark, he is approached menacingly by the Morlocks, pale, apelike people who live in darkness underground, where he discovers the machinery and industry that makes the above-ground paradise possible. 
Overwhelmed, he returns to his laboratory, at just three hours after he originally left. Interrupting dinner, he relates his adventures to his disbelieving visitors, producing as evidence two strange flowers an Eloi had put in his pocket. The original narrator takes over and relates that he returned to the Time Traveller's house the next day, finding him in final preparations for another journey. The Traveler promises to return in half an hour, but three years later, the narrator despairs of ever learning what became of him, although just before he left the lab he saw a glimpse of him.

DISCLOSURE: A product sample was provided for review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed in this post are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.