EA SPORTS Active 2- Good Idea for Dad!

June 12, 2011 by 13 Comments
 Hey there and welcome to Daddy’s Corner!  For any of you new readers, that means that this post is by daddy- me!  But Mom says to mention that this is a GREAT idea for Father’s Day- and I concur! 
EA is one of the biggest most well known video game publishers out right now.  They make some great titles, including: Mass Effect, John Madden Football, and SSX ( I personally can’t wait for the newest installment of SSX, I love this game, go Kaori!!)  One of their newest franchise is EA Active.  Active is EA’s jump into the exercise/ self help genre.  It acts as both and exercise program as well as a life-style tool.  The exercises are varied and go from simple warm ups and stretches to running/biking/squats.  Also the graphics are very good, you can very clearly see exactly what should be done next, and your personal trainer (I picked Devon, seems like a cool cat) is quite good at showing you how to do each workout properly.  The backgrounds are also varied and gorgeous, from sprawling deserts to flowing waterfalls.  What I enjoyed about the workouts is they are varied.  Warm ups are just that, to stretch you out before burning those calories.  They also vary in intensity and length, from a quick 10 minutes cardio burn to longer 45 minute sessions.  You can pick a mountain to conquer on bike, pumping your feet and doing squats to do jumps and tricks or maybe off road skateboarding, with balancing and speed controlled by how deeply you squat and jump.
A great tool included in Active 2 is the calender, not only does this game help you workout but also helps you figure out when you should be working out and helps you fit exercise in your schedule.   
 
There are also tips on eating and life style changes.  An exercise routine isn’t the only portion of a healthy life as you all know.  Burgers for three meals a day and EA Active will still lead to problems down the line.  As you work out and progress through your routine, number one you feel better, and number two it actually rewards you with medals and trophies, Even PlayStation trophies so all your on-line buddies can see how well you are doing. 
There are lots of features included in Active 2.  One of the most prominent ones is the new body tracking feature and heart monitor.  (Both of which are included.)  These looks like arm bands with small mp3 player on them.  Very easy to put on and hardly noticeable once in place.  The sensors are very responsive and pick up your motion easily.  Even in the most cardio intensive workouts, where you are running in place, pumping your arms and hoping up and down doing squats. 
I know this is a minor feature but still one I really like, custom playlists.  You can rip your mp3s off your cd’s or copy them off your mp3 player, you can import a playlist into the game.  Don’t like the hip hop or electronic music included?  Change it up.  Get pumped with some classic Queen, or maybe some rocking Live, according to the wife.  The choice is yours.  I found myself building my next playslist as a cool down after my workout more often then not.   🙂
 
We have the PlayStation 3 version of EA Active 2 and I can definitely see myself using it regularly.  It looks like it could be a nice change of pace from blowing up alien space ships and saving the world.  Saving myself from an early demise sounds like a good idea as well.
Until next time- Daddy
Filed Under: family, fitness, health, technology

Re-Tweet Club!

June 12, 2011 by Leave a Comment

Want help sharing your posts, reviews, and giveaways? Want to increase your Klout? Then you’ve come to the right place!

Let’s help each other out with retweets!

Join the Retweet Club!

With your hosts:

@Syrana, @Marirene74, and @HaveSippy

The Rules:

1 – The first rule about the Retweet Club is to talk about the Retweet Club.

2 – Tweet the last entry on the spreadsheet (copy and paste!) – The first spot will always be about the RT Club post!

3 – Choose any post you want that’s family friendly!

4 – Add your tweet to be retweeted – typed AS you want it tweeted (refer to the first spot for an example).  Please make sure it is only 140 characters.

5 – Use bit.ly or tinyurl to shorten your post links.

6 – You can retweet more than one and post more than one request.  We ask that you retweet one for each that you post.  We will randomly tweet off the list too.

Optional – You can follow the hosts and send us a tweet telling us you are part of the #RTClub and we’ll follow you back!

If you’d like the code to post the listing on your blog, please contact me and I’ll send it to you.

**PLEASE NOTE** It takes about 5 minutes for the spreadsheet on this post to update with your submission.  To see the spreadsheet and confirm your information was recorded you may CLICK HERE.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Ikea

June 12, 2011 by 3 Comments

Our closet collapsed today- so lucky me- I got to spend 5 hours (nope- not a typo!) at Ikea today getting new shelves et all, now we have to go re-do the whole closet, and build the shelves, and put everything back into it.  Right now.  Oh yeah- after taking it all out, lol. 
And Little Man peed his pants while we were there, and my husband spent over an hour tying it all down to the roof- just to take it all back down again and put it INTO the car. 
Sigh.  I hate wasted days like this.
I’m going to try to get at least one post up for you guys, besides the Giveaway Gala and ReTweet Club posts as well.  If I don’t- forgive me, it was a long day!  LOL
Happy Sunday!
~Samantha

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Growums- Review and Giveaway! (gardeneing with your kids)

June 12, 2011 by 200 Comments
So we just set up our Growums garden.
Of course, we decided to get the kids involved in the gardening, as usual!  Both of them love veggies and we always have a least a few plants growing over the summer.  In the past we have tried many different plants, hot peppers, eggplant, green beans, corn, lettuce, tomatoes, herbs, etc.  We have found what works best and found a fun way to bring the whole family in on the fun this year.  Growums!  They not only give you starter packs and seeds, but also they give you  fun charactesr and something friendly with the gardening, while keeping it exciting and current, by including an online tracking mechanism. (So cute- you have to see it- and they send you little reminders via email to check your gardens, LOL.)
Growums are sold in gardens, there are quite a few, including the Salad Garden, Herb Garden, Taco Garden, Ratatouille Garden, Stir Fry Garden and Pizza Garden.  Each garden includes everything you need, except water and a nice hole in the ground.  They include seeds and coco pellets, ‘baby plant beds’ as Little Man put it.  You start out germinating the seeds in the coco pellets then as they grow you plant them and track your progress with their website: http://www.growums.com.  It’s a good idea and not only gives kids a better understanding of plants and growing, but also of how much work actually goes into dinner.  It even gives them a sense of accomplishment when they first see that seed sprout and I am assuming when take that first bite of a fresh vegetable they helped grow!  Last Earth day we planted a corn kernel for each, one corn made it- one, not so much.  But we did get one ear of corn and the kids would go nuts checking on its progress everyday, BEGGING to eat it everyday.  When we finally picked it they absolutely loved it, as if it was the best corn they had ever eaten according to them.  I am hoping for the same reaction this year but in a more pronounced manner and a more hands on approach.  Last year the kids planted the kernels and other fully developed plants, and we watered, weeded and fertilized the garden.  This year the kids are involved in all aspects, so they should also learn put in effort, get out fun. 🙂
Growums is a great idea because not only is it a gardening set but also a learning experience.  The kids learn about plant biology, farming (in a very very small scale), food and cooking, hand eye co-ordination and of course quality time maintaining the garden.
One of you can win from Growums!
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.  In  your comment, please.

 Extra Entries
Leave a separate comment for each entry.

– Tell me something fun about Growums that I didn’t mention- name a character, something adorable from the site- be creative!  🙂  

– “Like” Growums on Facebook

– Follow Growums on Twitter and tweet about this contest-
#Win Growums- Review and Giveaway!  (gardeneing with your kids.. http://t.co/hpToLNb @Growums @HaveSippy

-“Like” me on Facebook
+2 entries

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

– Follow me on Twitter ( or you can use my adorable button to the side!) and tweet about this contest
#Win Growums- Review and Giveaway!  (gardeneing with your kids.. http://t.co/hpToLNb @Growums @HaveSippy
*can be done daily

Please make sure you follow first!
+2 entries

– 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!)   *Can be done daily

– enter another one of my giveaways

– comment on a non-giveaway post

– Like this post on Facebook, Stumble it, or hit G+1 button  (each is worth one entry)

OOO, 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.  Open to US shipping addresses only.  Limited to US residents; 18 years old and above.  Sponsor is responsible for providing and mailing prize. Ends June 30, 2011.

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Filed Under: education, family, giveaway, kids, review

Max, the Leader Dog buddy- is at it again!

June 11, 2011 by 4 Comments

You guys remember the Leader Dog advocate, Max?  He is at it again, trying to raise awareness and get some help for his cause- Leader Dogs!


“Look At Me Now”, Max’s first song release, is inspired by the award winning childrens’ book “Dogs Work Too! From Max’s Point of View,” a story about Leader Dogs for the Blind. As you listen to the song you discover, like Max’s books, the vocals are sung from a dog’s prospective. “Look At Me Now,” shares that journey of a young puppy learning to become a leader for his owner.

Child Actor John Coleman Demers, age 10, from the multi award winning and three time Emmy® nominated The Rusty Bucket Kids television show was invited to perform the vocals for Max’s first song. “John Coleman’s vocals match as if he were that young puppy learning how to lead. Also, John Coleman’s vocals are very similar to what you may hear from members of the Vienna Boys’ Choir”, says co-author/publisher Anthony M.T. Majewski. “When you listen to the words of the song, hear the innocence in John Coleman’s voice, it is so heartfelt, and can often in a good way bring a tear to your eye,” says Majewski, “Especially if you have raised a pet, know someone who is blind, or just enjoy music.”

“Look At Me Now” is now available as a pre-release limited edition numbered CD set. It will be autographed by John Coleman Demers and Paw-o-graphed by Max. Also the set will include the sheet music with lyric’s autographed by composer Craig Brandwynne. Those that pre-order will also be the first to receive a digital copy of the song prior to it arriving in the mail. Official Release of “Look At Me Now” song is schedule for early July. The Rusty Bucket Band is a part of The Rusty Bucket Kids TV Show, and will also perform the song at the 32nd annual Festival for the Eno.

Authors, the record label, Center Sound Records, and the recording artist John Coleman Demers, have agreed that a portion of the proceeds from the sales of “Read With Max” original music as well the “Look At Me Now” song will be donated to Leader Dogs for the Blind.

To listen to song or for more information about licensing and/or distribution of “Look At Me Now” or Max’s original music you can contact Center Sound Records at http://www.centersoundrecords.com

For more information about Max, his books, or music visit http://www.readwithmax.com

For more information about The Rusty Bucket Kids, visit http://www.therustybucketkids.com

For more information about Leader Dogs for the Blind, or to make a donation, please visit http://www.firstgiving.com/leaderdogs. 

Filed Under: animals

Win Topricin- for all your aches and pains!

June 11, 2011 by 80 Comments
Today I have the pleasure of trying a great product that goes by the name of Topricin.  Topricin is a homeopathic pain relief cream.  This pain relief cream is all natural paraben and petroleum free. Safe for all kinds of skin types including our little ones’ sensitive skin.  There is also no odd smell to it, no heat or burning, and also no odd side effects or harsh chemicals.  When applying, just rub a small amount into the middle of your painful spot then around it about 3 inches.  Rub the cream in and there you have it.  This cream can be used for just about any minor or major pain you may be feeling from arthritis to fibromyalgia, to back pain  and carpal tunnel syndrome.  I have tried it on the small of my back after some long long days of lugging around the ‘mommy bag’ and the kids, ot the husband for that matter.  I liked how there really was very little smell, and the smell it did have was very plain, not like a medicine or perfume like other creams and lotions. 
Not only did we receive the original cream but also Topricin Junior and Topricin Foot Therapy Cream.  Junior has homeopathic ingredients just like the regular cream but is made specifically for our little ones.  Especially formulated for bumps, bruises, growing pains, minor burns and sprains.  This can be used for just about anything your little ones can get into.  Even for post surgery pain as a replacement for oral pain relievers (So says the site!). 
Topricin Foot Therapy is also a great product.  It is homeopathic of course no odd smells or anything that but still strong and effective.  This works with pain relief of nerve pain, gout, bunions an sport injuries like ankle sprains achilles tendonitis and plantat fascilitis.  All kinds of nasty stuff, but these problems to happen and at least now we have an alternative to try when most doctors just want to prescribe stronger and stronger pain relievers. 
I am impressed by the way Topricin works and suggest it to anyone who has a body. 🙂
In addition, Topical BioMedic’s is offering you a chance to try doctor-recommended Topricin Pain Relief and Healing Cream for free. You can go to http://www.topricin.com/product/trytopricin/topricin to receive free samples of safe, natural Topricin products and be automatically entered into a random drawing for a chance to win a Kindle through 6/30/11. Enter promo code ‘KINDLE’ at checkout at. (One entry per household).
Want to win some?  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.

– Follow Topricin on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway

#Win Topricin- for all your aches and pains! http://t.co/8kHVAHP @Topricin @HaveSippy  #health

– Like Topricin on FaceBook

-“Like” me on Facebook
+2 entries

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

– Follow me on Twitter ( or you can use my adorable button to the side!) and tweet about this contest
#Win Topricin- for all your aches and pains! http://t.co/8kHVAHP @Topricin @HaveSippy  #health

*can be done daily

Please make sure you follow first!
+2 entries

– 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!)   *Can be done daily

– enter another one of my giveaways

– comment on a non-giveaway post

– Like this post on Facebook, Stumble it, or hit G+1 button  (each is worth one entry)

OOO, 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.  Open to US shipping addresses only.  Limited to US residents; 18 years old and above.  Sponsor is responsible for providing and mailing prize. Ends June 29, 2011.  

Filed Under: giveaway, health, review

Looking for a desk?

June 11, 2011 by 8 Comments
Have you ever looked at that old computer desk and wondered, “What if?  What if I didnt have that chair that creaks too much and that desk all covered with post it notes and wire tangles?”  Why keep asking what if and start asking “Why not?”  Take a quick look at some of these nifty desks: computer desk with hutch , a shelf and desk space!  Enough room to fill out paperwork AND even keep it clutter free.  A few accordian files, a couple big filing folders- perfecto.  Let’ s say you want a more horizontal desk, not so much vertical, you like picture frames above your desk.  Check out these : L-shaped computer desk , a multitasker’s dream.  Write memos to the kids, “take out trash now!!” while balancing the checkbook and saving the planet by making your doantion to save the seals.  All in a days work, or a few horuse work with this work space.  And now for an old school feel, Roll top computer desk.  I can just see myself blowing a bubble pipe while sipping my sniffer of the finest cola money can buy.  (See?  Because I am a grown up- but I act like I’m 6?)  In all seriousness this desk is really nice,  and it can hide that computer moniter, printer, tower and quite a good amount of office supplies, so even with your work and home office you can “leave your work at work.”
Or for a blogger….hide your work at home  🙂 
Happy Inter-webbing!  (and goodnight, ya’ll!) 

Disclosure- this is a sponsored post- all opinions are my own

Filed Under: Uncategorized

FurReal Friends Luv Cub Bear- Win it!

June 11, 2011 by 318 Comments

Can’t you just eat this little guy right up???
Hasbro’s  FURREAL FRIENDS LUV CUBS Baby Brown Bear-he is too cute. 
So adorable!   My Little Man loved him, and the kids at the Pre-K went nuts, too.  Boys and girls alike wanted in on some playtime with this little fella!
Soft, cuddly, and a robot- who can ask for anything more???

The girls made it a “baby bear“- and took it around in the stroller, fed it in the high chair, and burped it.  The little kids boys did the same thing, and also the boys of all ages made it a bear that ate little people.  Since it drinks the bottle, it makes the “chewing” motion, and it was a hit with all ages and all the kids.

“Give your love to this cuddly baby brown bear figure he’ll give some right back! “Feed” this furry little friend from his bottle accessory so he’ll be happy and full, then listen to him “giggle” as he “plays” peek-a-boo with you. But his very favorite thing to do isn’t even eating or playing — it’s hugging! Give your little cub a hug and he’ll actually hug you in return, just to show you just how much he loves you.
Figure comes with bottle accessory. Includes 3 “AA” batteries. Ages 4 and up.”
Available for  $29.99 Here (great gift!)

 One of you will win the adorable bear! Want it to be you? 

Mandatory entry
You must be a public follower on Google Friend Connect.
Leave me your email so I can contact you if you win.  In  your comment, please.

 Extra Entries
Leave a separate comment for each entry.

-“Like” me on Facebook
+2 entries

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

– Follow me on Twitter ( or you can use my adorable button to the side!) and tweet about this contest
#Win FurReal Friends Luv Cub Bear- Win it! http://t.co/U3pqA9U @HaveSippy
*can be done daily

Please make sure you follow first!
+2 entries

– 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!)  Can be done daily

– enter another one of my giveaways

– comment on a non-giveaway post

– Like this post on Facebook, Stumble it, or hit G+1 button  (each is worth one entry)

OOO, 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.  Open to US shipping addresses only.  Limited to US residents; 18 years old and above.  Sponsor is responsible for providing and mailing prize. Ends June 29, 2011.

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Filed Under: giveaway, kids, review