Monday, October 31, 2011

Puppies vs. Babies-The Ultimate Showdown

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Puppies vs. Babies for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

PvB-CuteDar-Green-300x250-Backup.jpg

Oh

Em

Gee

Puppies vs. Babies

Everyone knows they are both so stinkin cute!

How on earth can we decide which one is ultimately cuter?

Several years ago, we had just gotten a new puppy.  Her name was Daily and she was shepherd mix.  Such an adorable little furbaby.  We took her out with us often to show her off and also to prevent any destruction in the house, since we didn't have a crate.

On one of these outings, my husband brought her to have lunch with me at the bank that I was currently working at.  It just so happened that a coworker, let's call her Linda, who had recently had a real live baby baby, was also visiting with her newborn in tow.

Linda was already surrounded by a large crowd oohing and aahing over her baby girl so a few of my friends came over to play with Daily.  Being pressed for time and seeing that Linda was still surrounded by so many people wanting to see the baby, they left without saying hello to her.  I can still remember how upset Linda was over my friends making more of a fuss over my puppy than her human baby.

As a result I'm thinking that maybe puppies are just a smidge cuter than babies.  But don't take my word for it!  Head over to the Puppies vs. Babies online contest until November 23rd and vote for your choice.

The winner gets $5000!

Who would you vote for?

Visit Sponsor's Site
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CHITAG Giveaway #3

Chicago Toy and Game Fair hours are Saturday, November 19th, 10 am to 6 pm and  on Sunday November 20th, 10 am to 5 pm. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Children under three are admitted free.



Print the coupon above to save $2 off admission or for a chance to win a family admission pass, leave me a comment below telling me about your child's favorite toy or game.  I have one pass to give away each week until the Fair.  This giveaway ends on Friday November 4, 2011 and winner will be notified by email.

Disclaimer:  My family and are were given complimentary admission to the Fair.
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Saturday, October 29, 2011

The Rookie Bake-Off® Challenge

Grab your aprons and start your ovens! Pillsbury´s first-ever Rookie Bake-Off® Challenge has just begun!



The Rookie Bake-Off® Challenge consists of six weekly challenges, each providing you with a chance to win $500, 5 doable new recipes to vote on and use each week, and even inspiration from guest bloggers!

To enter for your chance to win each week, visit BakeOff.com to check out the weekly challenge and submit your entry! Just keep in mind...
  • The whole shebang! Submit a recipe, story, and photo.
  • A quick fix! Prep time in 30 minutes or less.
  • A lot for a little! Five ingredients, including at least one Pillsbury refrigerated dough product.
  • All that and more! Keep in mind creativity, consumer appeal, appearance, and include an inspiring story.

To find more information and contest rules, visit BakeOff.com

So roll up your sleeves and get cooking for your chance to win this week's $500 prize! Best of luck! 

Disclaimer: I received the details for this Bake Off from Pillsbury through MyBlogSpark.
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Window Box Planters




I know it's fall and winter is just around the corner, so to keep my mind off the snow and cold I'm already thinking about planting spring flowers.  Working in my garden was so relaxing, I'm looking forward to doing it again next year.  I already have a good idea of what I want and what worked and didn't work.

I was thinking of maybe adding some window boxes. Window boxes help improve curb appeal aand bring the front of your home to life. An outdoor windowbox allows you to bring color and pizzazz to any window.  But window flower boxes are much more versatile than the name suggests. You can use an outdoor window flower box to transform any dull or uninviting flat surface such as decks, fences, or bare walls.

If Durwood ever gets my shed constructed I might add a few flower boxes to the fence on either side of it.  I think that might be a lovely touch.

Disclaimer:  Links were provided, but opinions are my own.
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Friday, October 28, 2011

The Voyages of Young Doctor Dolittle

Coming to DVD on November 1, 2011 


Based on the classic  1920's children's book series and starring the voices of Jane Seymour, Jason Alexander, Tim Curry and Tom Kenny.
John Dolittle loves animals just like his uncle, Doctor Dolittle. When John is warned that animals are in danger, he jumps into his uncle s submarine to help. When he arrives at Dolittle Island, he learns that it has been taken over by Ramsey the Ram and his army of gorillas. With a little help from some new friends, John comes to the rescue and saves the island.



This movie is rated G and has a running time of 80 minutes.

The animation was vivid and lively and the characters were very likable.  The storyline was simple enough to hold 2 year old TC's interest and yet had just the right amount of adventure and  suspense to make this a great family night movie for all ages.  TOF, TC and I give it two thumbs up!

Disclaimer: I was sent a copy of the DVD for the purpose of review. No other compensation was received.
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Good Night Moon

Chicago Children's Theatre does it again!

They are bringing the classic bedtime story Good Night Moon by Margaret Wise Brown, to life at the Victory Biograph Theater.

I can hardly wait to take the boys and watch their little faces light up as Bunny's room comes alive.  They had such a good time at the performance of Dot and Ziggy in the spring, I just know they'll enjoy this familiar bedtime story as well.


We loved that the CCT was so very child friendly and the kids were encouraged to interact with the performers.  It certainly made us feel better about bringing an 18 mth old to the theater.

Additionally, CCT has partnered with Scholastic Books and The Pajama Program, a non-profit organization which provides new, warm pajamas and new books to children in need in Chicago and around the world. Throughout the run of Goodnight Moon The Musical, Chicago Children's Theatre will post a Pajama Drive donation bin in the Biograph lobby during every performance. For every pair of new pajamas donated during the run of Goodnight Moon, Scholastic Books will donate an equal number of early learning books for disadvantaged youth.

The show runs from October 27 through December 23, 2011.  For more information regarding show times and to purchase tickets visit Goodnight Moon-The Musical.

Disclaimer:  I was given complimentary tickets to a performance but all opinions are my own.
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Thursday, October 27, 2011

It's a New Season for the Chicago Wolves

In their 18th home opener, the Chicago Wolves began their 38-game home slate at the Allstate Arena on Saturday October 15th against the Milwaukee Admirals.

Earlier this year I attended my first ever Wolves game.  You can read all about it in my recap here.  The Chicago Wolves games are every bit as exciting as an NHL game for a fraction of the price. 

With affordable tickets starting at just $9 and Fan 4 Packs, presented by Orville Redenbacher’s Popcorn (which include four tickets, four hot dogs and four sodas for as low as $75), Wolves hockey provides a unique family activity at a great value.


From pregame festivities to opening fireworks to the final buzzer, fans will be sure to have a fun-filled night out.


Wolves games are played at the Allstate Arena located in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, near the O’Hare airport in the Village of Rosemont.

TO ORDER TICKETS AND FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL 1-800-THE-WOLVES 

Disclaimer:  I received complimentary tickets for my family and will attend a future blogger event hosted by the Chicago Wolves.  
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Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents FULLY CHARGED-More FREE Tickets

Did you get your circus tickets yet?

No?

Well what are you waiting for?

Get your tickets today!
Use code word MOM and get 4 tickets for $44 for weekday performances or save $4 on weekends.  Facility and handling fees may apply to ticket prices. Included in your ticket price is the all access pre-show.  It's your chance to interact with the clowns and performers.  Be sure to arrive early, you won't want to miss this!



Here's an idea...print out this coloring page for the kiddos and exchange it along with tickets to the circus for all that teeth rotting candy they'll get for Halloween.  I'm pretty sure a family night out at Fully Charged will be less than the cost of fillings.

You're very welcome!

Spare the dentist, spoil the family!



There's more!

This year Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Fully Charged is taking Halloween to a whole new level! You can Trick or Treat for a FREE Ticket to Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Fully Charged!

Simply visit one of the 5 Halloween Ringling Treat Houses during their Ringling Treat hour:

House 1 – Roseland, 11350 S. Calumet Avenue – 3pm – 4pm
House 2 – Oak Lawn, 9643 Melvina Avenue – 4pm – 5pm
House 3 – Barrington, 9149 Jasmine Way – 4pm – 5pm
House 4 – Oak Park, 300 Forest Avenue – 5pm – 6pm
House 5 – Naperville, 4711 Snapjack Circle – 5pm – 6pm

Parents who visit a Ringling Treat House with children between the ages of 2 and 12 will receive one voucher for a FREE Kid’s Ticket for each child present. Voucher is redeemable for a ticket to any Monday – Friday performance of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Fully Charged at Allstate Arena and United Center. Voucher must be redeemed for Kid’s Ticket at the arena box office. Additional tickets and adjoining seats may be purchased at that time. Trick or-Ringling Treating is available on Oct. 31 until the end of the hour noted or until 100 FREE Kids’ Vouchers are distributed at each house, whichever occurs first.  

Disclaimer:  My family received complimentary tickets in exchange for sharing this information with you.
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Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Big G and Super Hero Comic Books-Giveaway

Big G cereals and DC Comics have joined forces to create a powerful breakfast for you and some of your favorite little sidekicks. Available now, specially marked Big G cereal boxes will feature collectable DC Super Hero comic books starring members from the Justice League, from Batman to Wonder Woman to Green Lantern!



Each box will be packed with action, adventure, and delicious cereal, not to mention a cut-out DC Super Hero mask your child can use to help the Justice League fight crime at breakfast time!

Collect all four comics – there’s one in each specially-marked Big G cereal box - and you’ll instantly be the hero of your house.

Participating Big G cereals include:

Cinnamon Toast Crunch (17 oz.),
Lucky Charms (16 oz.),
Honey Nut Cheerios (17 oz.),
Trix (14.8 oz.),
Golden Grahams (16 oz.),
Reese’s Puffs(18 oz.) and
Cocoa Puffs (16.5 oz.)

Let Big G cereals and DC ENTERTAINMENT feed your family’s bodies and minds while also giving them a super start to their day! Visit www.BigGCerealHeroes.com for more information on Big G cereals and DC Comics.



Enter below to win a prize pack containing:

1 box of a participating Big G cereal
1 set of the collectable DC Super Hero comic books
1 Green Lantern action figure

Just tell me in a comment who your child's favorite super hero is! Contest ends on Wednesday November 9, 2011 and winner will be notified by email.

Disclosure: Product, information, and giveaway have been provided by General Mills and DC ENTERTAINMENT through MyBlogSpark.
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Bulletin Boards

TOF isn't always the best at communicating school happenings with us. I imagine this will get better as he gets a little older. I hope.

He shares some details with us. For example, Jaclyn has the same hair color as he does. A few of the kids mispronounce his teachers name. Nahgee is a bully on the after school bus. The important stuff.

The mundane things, the one we really want to hear, are shared in a newsletter at the end of the week. Thankfully, there is also an enclosed bulletin board outside his classroom for sharing this information.  The teacher makes sure to update it frequently during the week to include the books they've been reading, the letter of the week and a few pictures.

I've seen these enclosed bulletin boards scattered throughout the school.  Some are just basic enclosed cork bulletin boards, but I have seen the more elaborate enclosed fabric bulletin boards near the office.  These bulletin boards are very effective for displaying notes and announcements that you may have otherwise missed.

Disclaimer:  This was a sponsored post, links were provided but opinions are my own.
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Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Shutterfly Holiday Card Giveaway

Who's ready for some holiday cheer?

Too early you say.

This isn't Nordstroms, it's The Avenue.
 
Chestnuts roasting on an open fire...not likely. It was 71 degrees in Chicagoland this afternoon.  It's not going to be a Silent Night with all that thunder and lightening going on either.

So while I'm stuck inside Dreaming of a White Christmas and thinking of how I'm going to Deck the Halls I may as well be productive and head over to see the new designs Shutterfly has to offer.

Last year Augie Dawgs and I both ordered our Christmas cards from Shutterfly and we were very pleased with our choices.  This year I really want my card to stand out and I thought I had a good idea of what I wanted,  but Shutterfly isn't making this easy.  There are so many beautiful designs to choose from.

I really like the bubbles on this one.



Or maybe this one?





This is going to take longer than I thought and you're not having any fun yet are you?  Would you rather be choosing a design for your own holiday cards?  That's what I thought.  The people at Shutterfly want you to get into the holiday spirit, so they're going send three of my readers 25 personalized cards.  Just leave me a comment with your email address and I'll pick a winner on November 8, 2011.

Disclaimer:  I will receive a set of cards for sharing this information with you.  Opinions are my own.
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Monday, October 24, 2011

CHITAG Giveaway #2

Chicago Toy and Game Fair hours are Saturday, November 19th, 10 am to 6 pm and  on Sunday November 20th, 10 am to 5 pm. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Children under three are admitted free.



Print the coupon above to save $2 off admission or for a chance to win a family admission pass, leave me a comment below telling me about your child's favorite toy or game.  I have one pass to give away each week until the Fair.  This giveaway ends on Friday October 29, 2011 and winner will be notified by email.

Disclaimer:  My family and are were given complimentary admission to the Fair.
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Winnie The Pooh-DVD Giveaway

Return to the Hundred Acre Wood, for the latest adventure featuring the world’s beloved bear, Winnie The Pooh! Join Pooh, Tigger, Rabbit, Christopher Robin, Owl, Kanga, Piglet, Eeyore, and all of the classic characters you know and love when Walt Disney Pictures releases Winnie The Pooh on DVD and Blu-Ray October 25, 2011! 

Wow!  Another great item to trade for all that Halloween candy!  Look for it in stores beginning Tuesday, October 25th.


Before the movie is released, have some fun by checking out the widget above. Take The Pooh Personality Quiz! Included in the widget are two different quizzes one for you and one for your child! Now you can see which character best fits your personality and so can your children with a quiz just for them!

There is also an awesome assortment of games and activities so you and your family can have your own adventure! You'll find coloring sheets to download, exclusive “Pooh” cooking recipes, party ideas, crafts, games and much more!

Enter to win your very own “Winnie the Pooh” DVD/Blu-Ray Combo Pack!

Take the personality quiz and share in the comment section which Winnie The Pooh character you and your child most resemble.  I'll pick a winner on Friday October 28, 2011.

Disclaimer:  I was given the opportunity to offer my readers a giveaway and no other compensation.  
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Friday, October 21, 2011

Meet Slam

Slam is one of the TrashCanKidz.
 

TC is showing one of his more tender moments.  He's treating Slam the way we treat him.  Holding him on his lap, showering him with kisses and rocking him gently.  From Day 1, TC has experienced love.  He's never been cold or hungry.  All his basic needs have been provided for him.  He knows he's loved.

There are millions of orphans around the world that are forgotten and living in the streets.  Existing on what they can scavenge out of trash cans.  That's where TrashCanKidz comes in.  Their mission is to educate children about contributing towards a better world.

Every TrashCanKidz that is adopted helps make a difference in an orphaned child's world.  Through EarthKidz International, 20% of all revenue is allocated towards making a better life for the street kids.

If you'd like to help your child become a TrashCanKidz Ambassador go to the website and enter code 1319048928 it's the only way you can get TrashCanKidz.  While you're there, encourage them to play the online game as well.


Disclaimer:  I was sent a TrashCanKidz doll for the purpose of review.  All opinions are my own.
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Thursday, October 20, 2011

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents Fully Charged-Ticket Giveaway

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents FULLY CHARGED, the all-new ELECTRIFYING edition of The Greatest Show On Earth! This year the show features death defying superhuman stunts, clowns to tickle your funny bone and the ever amazing animal acts.


Experience the excitement at Ringling Bros. Fully Charged  at the Allstate Arena from November 3-13 or at the United Center from November 17-27.

Get your tickets for high-voltage fun today!
Use code word MOM and get 4 tickets for $44 for weekday performances or save $4 on weekends.  Facility and handling fees may apply to ticket prices. Included in your ticket price is the all access pre-show.  It's your chance to interact with the clowns and performers.  Be sure to arrive early, you won't want to miss this!

Leave a comment below telling me about your favorite circus act for a chance to win a family 4 pack of tickets to a performance on November 3, 9, or 10 at the Allstate Arena or November 16 or 17 at the UC.  Winner will be chosen via random.org and notified by email on Monday October 24th.

Disclaimer:  My family received complimentary tickets in exchange for sharing this information with you.
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Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Leap Frog-Learn, Create and Share

I fell in love with LeapFrog when TOF was about 3 months old.  I bought their amazing bouncy chair at a garage sale for $10 and I realized that I had to have more of these great products.  The Letter Factory VHS tape with Professor Quigley, plays nearly everyday while I prepare lunches.  Last Christmas I bought TOF the Leapster and some games.  So when I was given the chance to host a LeapFrog Party I nearly soi...well, let's just say I was very excited.

The hardest part was hiding the box from TOF before the party.  He knows that when FedEx delivers he gets to help Mema with her blog work LOL.


Our party guests were equally as thrilled with the chance to try out all the new toys.  The adults agreed that the best features of the LeapFrog LeadPad were:
  • The toys are sturdy and completely kid friendly.
  • The LeapPad screen is a whopping 5" Making it perfect for kids and this Mema too.
  • It's compatible with Leapster Explorer games
  • It has a built in still camera AND video camera
  • You can use the pictures you take in the Story Creator
  • It's not like your typical annoyingly noisy electronic toy.
  • We can finally get our Smart Phones back from the kiddos.
There was only one thing about the LeapPad that we thought could have been better..the stylus is not attached by a cord.  But the kids could easily use their finger if the stylus gets lost.

The Tag Reading System also got a thumbs up from our guests.  The two sided World Map is not only a helpful learning tool, it includes interactive learning games and fun characters. When used as a reading system, Tag brings books to life.  Tag Reader holds the audio for up to 10 book that you can easily download from your computer. There is also an online game and a site for parents to monitor their child's progress and skills.

Pictures TOF took

With TOF in kindergarten this year, he's beginning to learn to read but still has a long way to go.  The Tag Reading System will help him build the confidence he needs to become an independent reader.

Disclaimer:  I received free LeapFrog products in order to host a Learn, Create and Share Party.  LeapFrog did not influence my opinions expressed here as a result.

Connect with LeapFrog:

Twitter      @LeapFrog
YouTube   http://www.youtube.com/user/LeapFrogOfficialSite


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Monday, October 17, 2011

Come Out and Play at CHITAG-Giveaway #1

The Chicago Toy and Game Fair (CHITAG) is being held at Navy Pier on Nov 19-20. This is your chance to preview the hottest new toys.  But that's not all.  There will be lots of fun for the whole family including live stage entertainment, free tournaments and contests, and costumed characters roaming the Fair.



Chicago Toy & Game Fair - Chicago

CHITAG also hosts the Young Inventor Challenge.  Kids 6-18 are encouraged to create their own original toy or game invention to compete for great prizes. Deadline to register is October 31st. All participants receive free admission to the Fair for their immediate families.

Fair hours on Saturday, November 19th are 10 am to 6 pm and  on Sunday November 20th from 10 am to 5 pm. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Children under three are admitted free.



Print the coupon above to save $2 off admission or for a chance to win a family admission pass, leave me a comment below telling me about your child's favorite toy or game.  I have one pass to give away each week until the Fair.  This giveaway ends on Friday October 22, 2011 and winner will be notified by email.

Disclaimer:  My family and are were given complimentary admission to the Fair.
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Welcome to Chicagoland Ross Dress for Less

Being a big fan of bargain shopping I was excited when I learned at Bloggy Boot Camp that Ross Dress for Less was coming to Chicagoland.  I was even more thrilled when an invite to the exclusive insider event landed in my inbox.

I first shopped at Ross when my parents lived in Florida and I fell in love with the store.  I can remember buying some great items for the kids at a huge savings off of department store prices.

In case you are not familiar with Ross Dress for Less, it's the largest off-price apparel and home fashion retailer in the United States with 1,013 locations in 27 states. Ross offers first-quality, in-season, name brand and designer apparel, accessories, footwear and home fashions for the entire family at everyday savings of 20% to 60% off department and specialty store regular prices.

Augie Dawgs and I managed to fill a cart to the very top with our finds and we've made plans to head back soon.  Every time you shop at Ross you're likely to find new merchandise as they restock daily.

How would you like a $25 gift certificate to find some "Big Thrills" of your own?



To enter:

Leave me a comment telling me a) If you've ever shopped at Ross before or are you a newbie and b) which Ross store you'll be shopping at.  Be sure to leave your email so I can contact you in case you're the winner.

Giveaway ends on October 25, 2011 and the winner will be notified by email.

Visit Ross on facebook https://www.facebook.com/RossDressforLess

Disclaimer:  I was invited to the insider event and given a gift card to shop as well as a gift card to facilitate this giveaway.  I was not asked to post about my experience and all opinions are my own.
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Friday, October 14, 2011

The True Story of Puss 'N Boots

Now on DVD from Phase 4 Films, The True Story of Puss 'N Boots.  Starring Emmy and Golden Globe winner William Shatner as the voice of Puss, this animated movie is based on the famous Puss ‘N Boots character by Charles Perrault.

This version of the movie is a family film about a strange talking cat with magic boots, who uses his tricks to gain wealth and power.  It begins with the youngest son of a miller receiving his inheritance, Puss, the talking cat.  After Puss overhears his new master expressing his disappointment, the cat sets off determined to make his master a fortune.  After months of tricks and foolery, the cat charms a King into giving the miller's son his princess daughter in marriage.

Phase 4 films released the DVD on October 4, 2011.  Running time of this G rated film is 79 minutes and includes audio in French as well as English, and an exclusive interview with William Shatner.  Learn more about the movie at http://www.pussnboots-themovie.mk2.com/.
 
Disclaimer:  I was sent a copy of the DVD for the purpose of review.
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Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Garden Rain Chains

I may have gone a little overboard with my planting this past spring and summer.  It seemed every time I stepped foot in the gardening store I came home with more plants.  I couldn't help myself.  It was as if they were orphaned puppies that I had to rescue.  It was so relaxing, digging in the dirt and watching my flowers bloom.  Then sitting back in the evenings admiring my beautiful landscaping while being eaten alive by mosquitoes the size of hawks.

But oh my hell, the water bill came and my blood pressure went through the roof!

So now I am considering collecting water for my plants.  Rain chains are widely used in Japan to make a water feature by transporting water from the gutter into a storage container.  Copper rain chains are ideal because they do not rust like other metals.  Rust contaminates the water, making it useless for plant maintenance.

Garden rain chains are a beautiful and useful addition to the exterior of your home.

Disclaimer:  This was a paid post.  Links were provided but all opinions are my own.
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Thursday, October 6, 2011

Launch a New Career

I've heard it said that there are only two certainties in life...death and taxes.  There are many people who fear tax season more than death and therefore they seek the help of a professional Registered Tax Return Preparer.

If you're good with numbers, you may be interested in taking an online income tax course.  It's a great way to earn some extra money.  There are some new requirements going into effect this year for paid tax preparers, so you need to be sure you choose a reputable online tax class.

Once you've completed the class and passed the tax preparer exam you're ready to start applying for jobs.

Disclaimer:  This was a paid post.
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Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Shapeez

Oh the joys of just one more cookie. I don't know exactly when it happened, but I have back fat.  I noticed in the three way mirror in the Tarzhay dressing room yesterday.  I ran out of there as fast as I could, my face pale, as if I'd just seen a ghost.

I don't think I should go out in public again until I invest in the Best Body Shaper or maybe this super cute bra and cami with cleavage cover.

Shapeez seamless shape wear is designed to offer support, while still making you look and feel beautiful all day long. They are made from breathable moisture-wick microfiber that draws moisture away from the body to keep you dry and comfortable as well.  

Disclaimer: This was a paid post.
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Monday, October 3, 2011

Pass It Forward

I really, really like to see my bloggy friends in real life.  Seriously, for me, it's one of the highlights of blogging.  Unfortunately, due to my commitments here on The Avenue, I'm not always able to participate in the events.  When Melisa emailed me last week asking if I'd like to attend an event in a nearby suburb, I was so eager to reply that I misread her email and responded as quickly as I could wondering if there would still be room for me.


For the event we participated with ePIFany Now, a not-for-profit organization commited to creating positive change.  Our goal was to spread kindness throughout the community.  Although this wasn't a competitive event Melisa, Dawn, Amy and I dubbed ourselves Team 1 S.  There were about 80 volunteers present, including fellow bloggers Tracey and Farrah.  Each group was given some gift cards and a list of ideas on ways to make a difference and instructed to have fun.


As their way of spreading joy and kindness, Chevy provided our team with a smokin hot red Chevy Volt for our little adventure.  I don't normally get excited about cars.  I put in the key and drive.  If the car does that and looks pretty I'm happy.  But I have to admit this vehicle was sweet.  First off, there was a key, but you pressed a blue button to start the car.  It's electric!  The gas mileage was unbelievable, up to about 100 MPG.  You can drive 40 miles on a single 10 hour charge, switching over to gas when needed.  If you take short trips, you wouldn't use any gas at all.  It wasn't a sluggish putt putt of a car either.  It was so quiet you could barely hear the engine and being a tall girl, I was very impressed with the amount of leg room in the back seat.  The cost was a bit pricey, however there is a full tax credit of $7500 for qualifying buyers and there is also the fuel savings to take into consideration.  Plus it's really pretty.  You know, if that matters to you.


After we familiarized ourselves with the Chevy Volt, we headed out to spread joy and kindness.  Our first stop was at the local grocery store where we made a donation to the Boy Scout troop selling popcorn outside.  Then we headed to a gas station to buy some scratch off lottery tickets, because who doesn't dream of winning the lottery.  It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon and our team decided to walk along the river walk approaching people to tell them of our mission and hand them a bag of popcorn and a lottery ticket.

We were met with a gamut of reactions.  Most of the families we approached were happy to talk to us, the elderly couples were as well.  Some of the people walking alone brushed us off with a quick no thank you.  Which made me wonder how I would react, had I been on the other side of the conversation.  I'm often too rushed to stop and listen to someone's pitch and please don't ring my door bell selling something, because that really annoys me.  But we weren't selling, we weren't asking for donations, we just wanted to make people smile.  We were smiling.  I think we appeared non threatening, 4 middle aged (sorry Amy) women taking a walk.  And yet people didn't want to be bothered.

I kicked it up a notch by approaching vehicles stopped at the intersection.  The driver tried to wave me off, but I persisted.  Talking through a closed window and slowly, the window came down and I handed them a ticket and and told him to have a nice day.  I ran up to a motorcycle.  The guy just looked at me and as he started to comprehend what I was saying, a smile formed on his face.

It only takes a SMALL act of kindness to make someone's day.  I think we accomplished that on Saturday.  I know I came away feeling like I made a difference.  I just wish there was a way to find out if any of those tickets were winners.


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