There are some lines of toys or television shows that my children enjoyed when they were younger and then promptly outgrew. That's for babies, Mom.
On the other hand, I love it when a company takes a well-known, much-loved brand and adapts it so that it is still just as fun, interesting and appropriate for kids as they get older. What better way to continue the imagination and creativity yet in a way that children will still deem it cool?
Case in point, Lalaloopsy, the #1 collector brand for girls, which have now debuted all grown up as the fashion dolls Lalaloopsy Girls!
More than just modern rag dolls, the background behind the original Lalaloopsy gang is simple: they magically come to life when their final stitches are sewn. Each of the ever-expanding line of characters has its own unique personality and characteristics that comes from the fabrics that were used to make them, showing girls everywhere that it's okay to be yourself.
But now, for the first time ever, Lalaloopsies are have become fashion dolls called Lalaloopsy Girls with the motto Stitched Together... Friends Forever! Just check out their music video to get a taste of the glitter, friendship and fun that Lalaloopsy Girls are bringing:
Pretty awesome, right?
But that's not all. To continue the Lalaloopsy-palooza as these dolls take front and center, they are also hitting the small screen with a one hour animated special premiering on Nickelodeon this Sunday, September 7th!
Be sure to tune in at 12pm for Lalaloopsy Girls: Welcome to L.A.L.A Prep School for another semester at the Lalaloopsy Academy for Learning Arts. Some new students have just enrolled and now Jewel Sparkles, Mittens Fluff ‘N’ Stuff, Pix E. Flutters, Bea Spells-A-Lot, Crumbs Sugar Cookie, Spot Splatter Splash, Tippy Tumblelina, Peanut Big Top and Cloud E. Sky must learn to navigate this very fun and quirky school.
You're not going to want to miss seeing the Lalaloopsy Girls attending unique classes, joining silly clubs and making new friends along the way. Here's a peek at the fun that is going to be airing on Nickelodeon on Sunday!
I have always loved that all Lalaloopsy dolls promote the idea that it's okay to be yourself and be different by being sewn from various fabrics, as this is always a quality all little girls need to hear... so I was just as excited as my girls to see one of the new Lalaloopsy Girls dolls in person to welcome her unique style and personality!
Bea Spells-a-Lot was sewn from a school girl's uniform and loves math, reading, studying and her pet owl — hooray for a doll that promotes the greatness of school!
Coming adorned with a bow and glasses, Bea also has a pair of pajamas, a comb, two hair clips, her pet owl and a hair clip for her new human pal. All that's left is playtime!
My girls have had a great time incorporating Bea Spells-a-Lot into all sorts of games, make believe and pretend play and I love hearing them talk about all of her knowledge and her love of learning as they play.
As a bonus, the pink streaks in Bea's long hair have the ability to change color (to a light purple) when dipped in ice water, so that unique twist adds to the excitement and fun of having this studious pal.
Retailing for $19.99, Lalaloopsy Girls are recommended for ages 5+ and can be purchased in stores near you or online from Amazon. You'll find much more information about the full line of these creative new dolls by visiting LalaloopsyGirls.com and connecting with them on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram.
And, thanks to their generosity, one person will get to bring the grown-up rag doll fun to their house as well, because...
One lucky person will win a Lalaloopsy Girls doll!
A big thank you to Lalaloopsy Girls for providing a doll for me as well as for one lucky giveaway winner. The opinions shared are my own and honest and if you really need to see more, click here to see how I roll.
While it is one thing to make note that February is Black History Month, it is another to really take the time to catch up with some of the struggles and beauty that are an integral part of the African-American experiences in our country's history.
Most recently, it has never been easier and more convenient to explore and share the inspirational, educational and entertaining Black History Month programming as part of cable's Diversity On Demand initiative.
Whether viewed on a small screen such as a laptop, tablet or smartphone or on a big screen in the comfort of the living room, opportunities to celebrate Black History Month are taking a decidedly 21st century turn. It's all available, instantly, to digital cable subscribers with a push of a button on the remote control or with a quick download.
Multiethnic shows and movies available On Demand in February and beyond include:
Milestones In Black History
There are several offerings that examine the history of the struggles and strife, the tragedies and the triumphs of African Americans in the U.S., from the time of Lincoln to the Civil Rights era, including Lincoln: American Mastermind.
For children and adults alike, there is The Tuskegee Airmen, which recounts the true story of how a group of African-American WWII pilots overcame racist opposition to become one of the finest U.S. fighter groups in history, and First to Fight: The Black Tankers of WWII.
Profiles In Courage
The biographies of influential African-Americans come to life in dramatic profiles and stories of individuals who may be less known but perhaps should be more so, such as legendary baseball great Curt Flood in the documentary The Curious Case of Curt Flood and the five wrongly imprisoned teens in The Central Park Five.
Drama movies like Flight starring Denzel Washington and The Help starring Viola Davis, and TV programs such as House of Lies starring Don Cheadle, showcase award-worthy performances from notable African-American A-list actors.
Viewers can also get a close look at what it's like living in the cross fire of America’s drug war in the Emmy Award–winning miniseries The Corner.
Pride, Passion and Pain
For sports buffs, there are important shows that exemplify the contributions and struggles of athletes, such as Joe Louis: America's Hero...Betrayed and Breaking the Huddle: The Integration of College Football.
That's Entertainment
Music aficionados can celebrate the true artistry of entertainer and civil rights activist Harry Belafonte in Sing Your Song then laugh along with Why We Laugh: Black Comedians on Black Comedy.
This month and beyond, be sure to explore and share the inspirational, educational and entertaining Black History Month programming On Demand on cable. Find out more from On Demand (as well as sharing your passion for Black History Month programming) by visiting Diversity On Demand and then find your cable provider to take part in viewing.
Plus, thanks to the generosity of Diversity On Demand, one person will be prepared to see all of their favorite movies and shows as well, because...
One lucky person will win (1) $25 Visa Gift Card AND (1) $10 Cable Cash to use towards Diversity On Demand!
A big thank you to On Demand for providing a Visa gift card for me as well as a gift card and cable cash for one lucky giveaway winner. The opinions shared are my own and honest and if you really need to see more, click here to see how I roll.
If you're visiting today after seeing my segment this morning on the WKOW-TV (ABC) news, then welcome! Thanks for joining me bright and early this morning and for coming by Thanks, Mail Carrier to visit.
If you're a regular visitor, then I know what you're thinking. And I have no clue why they thought it would be a good idea to put me on television either. But don't worry, as soon as I have a link to the clip, I'll be sure to share it (unless I messed up horribly, in which case I'll deny that the whole thing ever happened and we shall never speak of it again, mkay? Good).
Edited to add: here I am!
But really, I couldn't have been more excited to be able to take part in sharing my expertise on Unique Family Fitness Gifts, as each of the products included are truly ones that can help get anyone and everyone on the right track to adding or ramping up their exercise regimen just in time for New Year's resolutions.
The five items featured on the show include:
Aquajogger
The Aquajogger is an innovative in-water exercise system that comfortably suspends you at shoulder level in deep water allowing you to breathe normally and move freely while performing a wide variety of water exercise.
Each of the components of the Aquajogger allow the person working out to determine the level of resistance they want for their leg and arm motions, ranging everywhere from very low, approximating a walk, to very strenuous, similar to a full-body fitness machine workout only without the joint discomfort and machinery.
Overall, this great gear makes low-impact, in-water exercise much more enjoyable, effective and beneficial! $44.95 and up, aquajogger.com.
ePulse2
The ePulse2 is the world's first strapless, armband continuous heart rate monitor, pedometer and calorimeter in one. As the first device to make this technology practical and convenient, the ePulse2 is great for anyone who exercises or is interested in tracking calories burned or monitoring heart rate or step counting while conducting any type of activity — from running to walking or simply doing daily chores.
Included features are continuous heart rate and exercise calories burned tracking, target heart rate zones, exercise time, stop watch w/ split times, calculation of max/min/avg heart rate, calorie count down, day/night OLED display. Powered by rechargeable battery. $89.99, impactsports.com.
Nufoot
A revolution in indoor footwear, Nufoot is an inventive new product that is great for use in the gym. These soft, flexible foot coverings are made from sturdy neoprene, are waterproof, super stretchy and very comfortable.
The combination allows wearers to simultaneously enjoy the stability of walking barefoot, the comfort of walking in socks and the protection of walking in shoes all at the same time. Additional features include ergonomic designs and anti-skid soles. Comes in multiple sizes and colors for men and women. $9.99/pair, nufoot.com.
TRAINERmat
Designed by elite trainers, the TRAINERmat is the first exercise training mat designed to guide users through an entire body workout for the easiest and most effective at home workout possible. The TRAINERmat details 24 exercises in graphics right on its surface so you can maximize your workout without ever having to leave the house.
The practice exercises printed on the mat fall into four different categories — Pillar Preparation, Movement Preparation, Movement Skills, and Regeneration — to help improve muscle strength and elasticity for developing speed and agility, as well as aiding in recovery reducing the risk of injury. $29.99, sklz.com.
TRAINERroller
The TRAINERroller is the first exercise training roller designed to guide users through an entire body workout for the easiest and most effective at home workout possible. The high-density foam construction efficiently massages muscle and connective tissue, while the TRAINERroller details 12 exercises in graphics on its surface so you can maximize your strength and regeneration routine.
The result is relief from soreness, improved circulation and increased muscle elasticity simply by pulling out the TRAINERroller whenever and wherever it is convenient for you. $39.99, sklz.com.
Whether you're looking for a way to get yourself motivated and in shape for 2013 or you're shopping for a unique gift that will be perfect for any friend of family member, these products are sure to get the casual exercise enthusiast up and moving.
Other than the products detailed above that I was provided in order to display and discuss them during the news segment, I was not compensated or enticed to do the television spot or this post in any way. If Anderson Cooper happens to decide I'm a star and comes calling for help on his show, that'll just be a complete bonus.
While there are all sorts of new children's television and movie characters that have been introduced since my own childhood, I always get a big kick out of seeing the classics return.
After all, how can I not be excited to see the revival of the greats like Strawberry Shortcake, Rainbow Brite or Cabbage Patch Dolls? Not only were they instrumental in my memories (as well as those of countless other children of the 80's), but I also appreciate knowing that they are a wholesome entertainment option for my own kids.
Which is exactly why when I heard that the beloved Care Bears were making a comeback, that I couldn't wait to introduce my girls to their cute, fuzzy goodness.
After premiering on The Hub TV Network, a television network for kids and their families, on June 2nd, we were excited to continue the fun of Care Bears: Welcome to Care-a-Lot in our house. My kids love that Care-a-Lot is a whimsical world where the Care Bears help children
navigate their feelings through music, love, belly-badge powers and
great big Care Bear hugs... and I'm happy knowing that the adoration for these loving characters has continued for another generation!
When it came time to take my kids (and a few of their friends) on an adventure through the high-above-Earth home of the Care Bears, it was immediately clear that the girls thought these colorful bears were the coolest, most caring-est, magical friends around.
From the wise, grandfatherly Tenderheart Bear to the nurturing, generous Share Bear to the silly, sweet Wonderheart Bear, we had a great time bringing the magical world of the Care Bears alive right in our living room.
The kids couldn't get enough of the games, coloring sheets and crayons...
...and of course the snacks and drinks were a hit. Along with serving our Funshine Bear's Fun-Shaped Grilled Cheese Sandwiches and Harmony Bear's Fruit Sticks, the Cheer Bear's Rainbow Cheer Punch was a definite favorite. It's a winner with kids (and adults)!
Cheer Bear's Rainbow Cheer Punch
Ingredients
1 (2 liter) bottle 7-UP
4 cups white grape juice
2 cups white cranberry juice
2 cups club soda
Ice cube trays and water
Food coloring in red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple
Instructions
1. Add one drop of food coloring to a 2 up measuring pitcher filled with water and stir. Add more food coloring to achieve desired color. Pour colored water into ice cube tray and freeze.
2. Pour colored water into ice cube tray and freeze.
3. Repeat with each color of the rainbow.
4. In a punch bowl mix 7-UP, white grape juice, cranberry juice and club soda.
5. Serve immediately in clear cups filled with rainbow ice cubes.
Following in the fun of the food, we played a few games that brought laughter and smiles - especially a rousing game of Musical Clouds (played like musical chairs but with pillows). And while our Belly Badge Factory started out innocently enough, leave it to my kids to turn the creation of unique belly badges out of cardstock into a gigglegest when they put down the paper and went for the Gelarti stickers.
When it comes to celebrating the 30th anniversary of some of the world's most endearing characters, don't miss all of the Care Bears fun every Saturday morning at 8am on The Hub TV Network. The show has received a slightly modernized makeover, but is just as adorable as it was decades ago and the messages are just as important.
Whenever I find a show that receives Mom's seal of approval while also demanding my kids' undivided attention, I know it's a winner. If you have bear-loving children in your life, they're sure to be enamored with Care Bears: Welcome to Care-a-Lot as well. Find out more on The Hub and check your local listings for showtimes.
(Other than the Care Bears Party Kit
I was provided by The Hub TV Network and MomSelect, I was not compensated or
enticed to do this review in any way. This review is solely my
honest opinion of this show.)
{This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations, Frugal Tumbleweed Acres!}
What is it about reality television that draws us in? Do we just want to compare our own lives to those featured to see if we appear to be normal? Or, more likely, is it just that we want to shake our heads at those on the screen and wonder how in the world they ended up doing something quite so crazy?
The perfect example: Reed Timmer and his fearless team on Storm Chasers on the Discovery Channel.
I don't mind a nice rainstorm or even a little lightening now and again, but I strongly prefer to watch it from the warmth and safety of my couch (or possibly peeking out from under the covers in bed) rather than being out on the road driving in it. The darkness, the rain, the unknown... no, I'm not purposely heading out there in that.
Reed, on the other hand, is out there with his crew driving straight for the action. They not only want to track down the twisters, but their goal is to actually go inside them. I'm shivering just thinking about it.
Fortunately, the Chase Team isn't out driving around in my minivan, but rather in the "Dominator," a technologically-advanced vehicle that is built to acquire all of the data that they are gathering while also keep them from getting swept up and away and dropped down in Oz.
Check out what this mobile marvel can do!
Crazy, right?
One of the features that Reed talks about in the "Dominator" is the importance of a great set of windshield wipers, because what good is chasing a tornado if you can't see where you're going out the window? After doing research to find the most advanced wipers, the Bosch ICON wiper blades were determined to be the highest quality and best for heading directly into a storm.
These bracketless wipers are designed without metal or plastic brackets, joints or hinges, which means they're an improvement over conventional wiper blades. Not to mention that everything from high-tension springs to an aerodynamic design to the customized, precision fit to the curve of the windshield means that these wiper blades will be able to perform in all types of weather.
Although when I'm out driving it's not to get precisely in the path of a tornado, I still want to know that I won't have a problem clearing my window in anything from rain to sleet to a splatter of mud and the Bosch ICON wiper blades are just the thing to do that to keep my family safe.
Plus, with up to a 40% longer life, it is easy to see that the amount of engineering that went into these wiper blades has resulted in a long-lasting, high quality, must-have product — no matter if you are driving home from soccer practice or into the path of a tornado.
To celebrate the release of the Bosch ICON wiper blades, Bosch is currently holding a contest on Facebook for a prize pack of incredible prizes (e.g. iPad 2, Bosch ICON wipers, iTunes gift card and more). On top of that, one lucky fan will win an experience of a lifetime: an all-expenses-paid, five-night VIP Storm Chasing trip for themselves and a guest with Reed Timmer!
If you've ever wanted to experience storm chasing, this is the contest for you! Be sure to visit the Bosch Facebook page to enter as well as to see Reed documenting his experience with the Bosch ICON wiper blades in a series of great webisodes.
And, thanks to the generosity of Bosch, one person will be prepared to head out safely in their car in nearly any type of weather, because...
One lucky person will win a Bosch ICON Prize Pack (total ARV $195!)*!
*The prize pack includes:
• A set of Bosch ICON wiper blades ($50 value) • "Storm Chasers - Season 4" DVD ($55 value) • A signed copy of Reed Timmer’s book "Into The Storm" ($20 value) • A Bosch C3 6V/12V Fully Automatic 4-Mode Battery Charger ($70 value)
To enter to win: Leave a comment telling me your favorite or least favorite type of weather. (For instance, do you love thunderstorms? Hate hail? Thrive in the snow?)
Extra Entries (available after the mandatory entry above is completed; please leave a separate comment for each entry in order for them to be counted).
1 Extra Entry if you Like Bosch on Facebook. 1 Extra Entry (per giveaway entered) - Enter any (or all) of the giveaways running on Thanks, Mail Carrier for the duration of this giveaway. 1 Extra Entry if you follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway by copying and pasting the tweet below and leaving me the link. Tweet daily for an extra entry every day!
WIN a Bosch ICON Wiper Blades Prize Pack (ARV $195) for quality & safety on the road! http://bit.ly/AaIxd1 @thxmailcarrier #giveaway #win
1 Extra Entry (per follow method) if you follow me with Google Friend Connect, subscribe to my RSS feed, subscribe to Thanks, Mail Carrier by email, become a fan on Facebook or add Thanks, Mail Carrier to your blogroll. 2 Extra Entries if you put my cute button up on your blog. Please leave an address where it can be found. 3 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway linking back to this post. Please leave an address where it can be found.
Giveaway will end on February 16th at 11:59pm CST. By entering this sweepstakes, you are agreeing to these official rules. No purchase necessary, void where prohibited by law. Do me the favor of leaving an email address or making absolutely sure it is visible in your profile, I have to have a way to contact the winner. The winner will be chosen by random.org and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to contact me or respond to notification or a new winner will be chosen. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway is open to U.S. residents only and must be 18 years of age or older.
A big thank you to Bosch for providing a pair of Bosch ICON wiper blades for me as well as a prize pack for one lucky giveaway winner. The opinions shared are my own and honest and if you really need to see more, click here to see how I roll.
Although my kids are far from sitting planted in front of the television around here, there are definitely times that we turn it on. Whether for some added entertainment or a much-needed break, there's something calming about the occasional cartoon that just can't be beat.
Unfortunately, most of the kids' shows that we watch are only on at particular times during the day, so it isn't always as easy as it would seem to pull something up that they will enjoy and I will deem appropriate. Who designs the programming schedule? Don't they have children?
Well, apparently someone over at the Disney Junior channel does and they have listened to what moms want... launching early in 2012, a brand new standalone 24-hour Disney Junior channel is coming!
Since its start this past February, Disney Junior continues to grow and break all previous records for Disney Channel's preschool programming. By reflecting the emotion generations of consumers have to Disney and its unparalleled ability to make you feel something in your heart through its timeless storytelling and beloved characters, this is one multi-platform brand that does it all.
With everything from early math and language skills to healthy eating and lifestyles to social and emotional development, Disney Junior is a channel that we as parents can stand behind. And one of the hit shows featured? Jake and the Never Land Pirates, cable's #1 series for boys ages 2 to 5 since its launch... and on track to be Disney Channel's #1 preschool series ever!
Currently airing daily from 8:30-9 a.m. EST/PST, Jake and the Neverland Pirates is among one of the most co-viewed preschool series, with 45% of moms watching with their preschooler. Considering the cute characters, adventurous plots, and fun tunes, how can us moms resist?
A "pirate rock" music-filled interactive treasure hunt, Jake and the Never Land Pirates introduces a crew of kid pirates – leader Jake and pals Izzy and Cubby – and follows their Never Land adventures as they work to outwit two infamous characters, the one and only Captain Hook and Mr. Smee, from Disney's classic "Peter Pan."
Along the way, they model teamwork, problem-solving and physical activity (definitely qualities that I want my kids to see promoted!) while earning gold doubloons as they conquer a variety of tasks. If you haven't tuned in, you're missing out on an entertaining show... and, if you have, then you already know why we're fans!
Up next for Jake and the Never Land Pirates is a December holiday episode, to be followed in January by the debut of the first-ever 45-minute series special and season two of the series.
In the holiday episode, titled It's A Winter Never Land!/Hook On Ice, Jake, Izzy and Cubby awake to find that Peter Pan has left the crew some presents and a tree to celebrate Winter Treasure Day, and Captain Hook invites Jake and the crew on a winter treasure hunt. We had a chance to see a preview of this episode and both shows had the same positive message that we've come to appreciate and show off how working together always wins out in the end.
Premiering on Friday, December 2nd at 8:30-9:00am ET/PT on Disney Channel, be sure to tune in with any young pirate fans for a fun way to celebrate the season with Jake and the Neverland Pirates. For more information about this show and many well-known others, visit Disney Junior to learn more.
(Other than the information and Jake and the Neverland Pirates gift pack that I was sent in conjunction with my membership to Team Mom, I was not provided with anything or enticed to do this review in any way. This review is solely my opinion of this show.)
Around here, the beginning of September translates into three things for us: the start of school, celebrating Labor Day and the premiere of a new season of one of our very favorite shows: Curious George.
Based on the best-selling Curious George books by Margret and H.A. Rey, Curious George the television series on PBS Kids expands George's world to include a host of colorful characters and original locales. At the same time, the show works to maintain the charm of the beloved books while also inspiring kids to explore science, math, and engineering in the world around them in a fun and entertaining way.
Each half-hour episode includes two animated stories followed by short live-action pieces showing real kids who are investigating the ideas that George introduces in his stories. The series encourages inquiry and curiosity, promotes hands-on exploration, and shows parents and caregivers how to support children's science and math-related play.
So we couldn't be more excited that our favorite monkey is back with a new season of (mis)adventures beginning Labor Day, September 5, 2011 on PBS KIDS (check your local listings). In ten all-new episodes, follow George as he encourages preschoolers to find their own creativity and get curious about the arts.
Running Monday, September 5 through Wednesday, September 7, season 6 of Curious George kicks off with three brand-new episodes - Auctioneer George/Sock Monkey Opera, Hamster Cam/The Great Monkey Detective, andGeorge and the Giant Thumb/Shutter Monkey.
Children are sure to be excited to follow George's contagious enthusiasm as he explores painting, sculpting, music, dancing, and more than will encourage their creativity and curiosity about the arts! The fun continues all season long as George explores arts themed activities including helping Betsy enter a photography contest, creating a wind symphony, sand painting the desert, and even dancing the box step.
It all starts Monday, September 5, with Auctioneer George and Sock Monkey Opera. In Auctioneer George, George has one dollar to buy anything he wants at the Annual Corn Roast and Attic Auction, and he sets his sights on a pair of red elephant mittens.
When the Man with the Yellow Hat leaves George alone, he bids ...and bids...and wins! Only, he didn't realize how bidding works, and now he owes $100. While George tries to re-auction the mittens himself, Marco searches the city for the only person unique enough to pay $101 for red elephant mittens... Mr. Glass.
Then in Sock Monkey Opera, when Betsy gets the chicken pox and can't see her favorite opera, Hansel and Gretel, she sends George in her place. George loves the opera so much, he decides to cheer up Betsy by performing for his itchy friend. But how can one little monkey sing, dance, and act for an entire cast of characters?
The fun continues on Tuesday, September 6 when George learns that clues are key to solving mysteries in the new episodes Hamster Cam and The Great Monkey Detective. In Hamster Cam, Steve's pet hamster, Hogie, is on the loose in the city streets with nothing but a small video camera tied to his back. George helps Steve track his whereabouts using clues from the hamster cam and his best monkeyish map-reading skills. But can a monkey with a map keep up with a hamster on the run?
Then, in The Great Monkey Detective, it's a mystery movie night at Chef Pisghetti's restaurant. But the big mystery really begins when Chef Pisghetti's cookbook suddenly vanishes! A fan of Detective Basil Know-it-All, George understands that clues are the key to solving a mystery. Will George be able to crack the case of the missing cookbook or will this mystery remain unsolved?
On Wednesday, September 7, George explores sculpting and photography in George and the Giant Thumb and Shutter Monkey. In George and the Giant Thumb, a bored George and Allie decide to make a ginormous sculpture of Bill's sprained thumb. The duo quickly run out of clay and turn to less conventional art supplies. Peanut butter proves too sticky and shaving cream too drippy, so George and Allie use mud to finish their masterpiece. But will Bill give their art a thumbs up?
Then, in Shutter Monkey, Betsy's "Out of Sight Shapes" entry for the photo contest is sure to win first prize, that is until George and Steve accidentally ruin her pictures. With some help from Steve, George runs around town trying to re-shoot the photographs. But finding the hidden shapes in things is hard for a little monkey! Can George snap four pictures of four shapes by 4:00... or are Betsy's prize-winning photos out of sight for good?
"Now in our sixth season, we're excited to present an all-new set of eight (mis)adventures that highlight the arts," said Senior Vice President of Animation Production for Universal Studios Family Productions Ellen Cockrill. "And we hope that viewers will stay tuned later this season when we launch the 'Exercise Your Creativity Dance Contest,' giving children the opportunity to show us their unique creativity through dance."
Along with these great new episodes, the fun of Curious George will continue all season long this year with even more excitement:
Curious George Holiday Spectacular Love the Curious George movies? You're in for a treat on Wednesday, November 23, when PBS KIDS will feature a Curious George Holiday Spectacular, starting with the broadcast premiere of the original Curious George feature film, staring Will Ferrell and Drew Barrymore, followed by encore presentations of Curious George 2: Follow That Monkey and Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas. Going away for Thanksgiving Week and afraid you'll miss it? Don't worry because the movies will repeat throughout the weekend (check local listings).
Exercise Your Creativity Dance Contest 2012 Coming in February, be on the lookout for the Curious George Exercise Your Creativity Dance Contest! To celebrate the art of movement and dance, Curious George will be having his first ever dance contest! Parents will be invited to send in videos of their little monkeys dancing to the Curious George theme song. Videos will be posted on the Curious George website and one lucky dancer will receive a special Curious George prize. Stay tuned for more details.
Special Earth Day Episode In April, Curious George celebrates Earth Day with the special episode Junky Monkey. In this episode, Steve is appointed head of the Pretty City Committee Pod 7 on a mission to lead George, the Man with the Yellow Hat, Aunt Margaret, Betsy, and Charkie to clean up litter in their neighborhood.
But where others see trash, George sees treasures hidden in alleys, sidewalk, and recycling bins. He takes his findings up to his apartment and sorts them by shape and size, transforming his collection into a masterpiece worthy to be hung at City Hall. But will the mayor agree or call it junk? Tune in on PBS KIDS to find out.
New Curious George books and DVD sets from Houghton Mifflin Harcourt New Curious George items for Houghton Mifflin Harcourt this year include a fully packaged book and DVD set, Curious George Builds a Home(September 2011; $6.99; Ages 4-8). When Curious George meets a homing pigeon, he decides that his home, with improvements, would be perfect for his new friend.
This paperback picture book explores the concepts of planning and design and includes a DVD featuring the episodes Curious George's Home for Pigeons and Curious George and the Dam Builders, with an emphasis on simple engineering concepts. Children can enjoy the story and episodes wherever they go!
Also coming in January 2012, CuriousGeorge Colors Eggs ($12.99; Ages 4-8). CuriousGeorge explores the wonderful world of colors but can he do it without getting messy? This early reader includes two activities that explore primary and secondary colors.
Clearly this is the year of Curious George! Even though both of my daughters have liked a variety of characters and shows over the years, their love for Curious George has continually remained strong. I admit that even I have a fondness for this fuzzy brown monkey and can't help but want to see what mischief he gets himself in and out of each time.
I love the fact that the show is completely appropriate for children, always has a positive moral and even has a real-life science, math or engineering lesson or activity at the end, showing how kids can take away the educational aspects each time. Needless to say, we've watched most every episode that has aired and we can't wait to stay tuned for the fun that is in store for Curious George and his friends this season and beyond!
(Other than the information and advanced screening copy of Curious George that I was sent from WGBH, I was not provided with anything or enticed to do this review in any way. This review is solely my opinion of this show.)
Typically when my daughters are having a chance to watch television, I'm doing something else entirely. Whether that means making dinner, talking on the phone or just enjoying five minutes to myself, it gives us all the chance to have a short time to regroup.
However, another reason that I don't want to sit and watch their show is because... well, it's a kids' show. Being that I already know my colors or how to count to 10 or the letters of the alphabet, I appreciate that the show is teaching these skills to my children, but they don't manage to hold my attention.
And then there's Phineas and Ferb.
Disney's Emmy Award-winning hit series, Phineas and Ferb has been television's #1 animated show among tweens for the past three years... and I'd say that it ranks pretty high on our list as well.
Following stepbrothers Phineas Flynn and Ferb Fletcher as they happily set out to conquer boredom and make every day of their 104-day summer vacation count, Phineas and Ferb brings viewers on adventures that are a little out of the ordinary. Throughout the escapades, they're accompanied by Perry the Platypus, their seemingly mindless family pet who, unbeknownst to all, has a double life as a suave secret Agent P, deftly battling the evil Dr. Doofenshmirtz to save the world.
Meanwhile, the boys' older sister Candace is aghast at her brothers' bold antics and makes it her life's work to tattle on them to Mom and Dad, though somehow she can never seem to catch the boys red-handed. You really never know what's going to happen next on this hilarious show!
So what is this entertaining cast of characters up to now? All sorts of fun things!
Just this week, Disney launched "Perry the Platy-bus On Tour," a 27-foot long, customized, rounded aluminum Airstream trailer outfitted stem-to-stem as Phineas' and Ferb's teal-colored pet. The Perry the Platy-bus is heading off on a coast-to-coast journey from New York City to Los Angeles to bring the fun to fans across the country!
Kids and adults of all ages are invited to marvel at nearly 4,000 pounds of Perry (complete with a bill, tail and googly eyes), come aboard, play new video games, sing Perry-oke and more - free of charge! In answer to the common question on the show, "Where's Perry?" the route for the Perry the Platy-bus tour will be announced soon.
Along with Perry the Platy-bus, there is a long list of other great Phineas and Ferb activities and products available in the upcoming months to keep the excitement going well after the bus has passed through your hometown.
From a Phineas and Ferb soundtrack (available August 2) to a video game to books to an interactive live entertainment experience at Disney's California Adventure and Walt Disney World's Hollywood Studios to action figures, apparel, accessories, grocery products and much more, this is the summer of Phineas and Ferb!
And, from the moment I held up a Phineas and Ferb sling bag and Big Sister E and Little Sister B caught sight of the logo on the side, they were beyond thrilled to see many of these great items for themselves!
Both girls were amazed at the number of fun things that came out of this bag and immediately started claiming them as their own. When I finally was able to round most of them back up (the Phineas and Ferb mouse pad is still in hiding in Big Sister E's room), I have to admit that I was happy about them also!
Even though we had just had macaroni and cheese for lunch the day before, Big Sister E insisted that we have the Phineas and Ferb macaroni and cheese immediately... and then giggled through eating all of the character-shaped noodles.
All that is left for us now? To rock out to our Phineas and Ferb soundtrack while waiting for the premiere of the Disney Channel Original Movie, Phineas and Ferb: Across the 2nd Dimension!
Set to debut Friday, August 5th at 8 pm EST on the Disney Channel and on Saturday, August 13th at 10 am EST on Disney XD, Phineas and Ferb: Across the 2nd Dimension will take the brothers on their biggest journey yet... into another dimension.
When Perry the Platypus must reveal that he battles the forces of evil daily as Agent P in order to save Phineas and Ferb, they join him on a grand adventure that blasts them to another dimension where Dr. Doofenshmirtz has taken over an alternate Tri-state Area. When they uncover his ploy to travel back to their dimension to take over their Tri-state Area, the boys meet themselves in the 2nd dimension and must band together to stop him.
Featuring an all-star cast of voices including Vincent Martella (Role Models, Deuce Bigalow: European Gigilo) as Phineas, Thomas Brodie-Sangster (Love Actually, Nanny McPhee) as Ferb, Ashley Tisdale (Sharpay’s Fabulous Adventure, High School Musicals) as Candace, and many more, this movie is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Not to mention fun bonus features that include deleted scenes, a music video, an onscreen jukebox, a sing-along Perry-oke feature, and more! Find out much more about this upcoming film at Disney Channel 2D, as well as all of the other entertaining games and activities. But be warned that you might spend more time there turning yourself into a 2D character and playing around in Danville...
I'm pretty cute in 2D, if I do say so myself
Whether or not you currently have Phineas and Ferb fans in your household, you're not going to want to miss all of the great ways to keep up with this show this summer. I have no doubt that my kids will be tuning in on August 5th to see Phineas and Ferb: Across the 2nd Dimension while cheering on some of their favorite friends.
(Other than the information and Phineas and Ferb products that I was sent from the Disney Channel in conjunction with my membership to Team Mom, I was not provided with anything or enticed to do this review in any way. This review is solely my opinion of this show.)
{This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations, Jayne @ Mimi to Tee and Bee!}
When it comes to the television shows and characters that my daughters like, they have typically been pretty easy to please. In fact, even though Big Sister E has her favorites, she is also happy when we are introduced to something new once in a while for a bit of variety.
Little Sister B, on the other hand, isn't. She wants Caillou and quite often nothing else will do.
I'm not sure what it is about this curious and adventurous 4-year-old that can keep her so enthralled each and every time, but he does. Whether he's having fun at home with his toddler sister, Rosie, expressing his imagination at Play School with his friends, or helping out Mom and Dad around town, Little Sister B just can't seem to get enough.
Fortunately, with the recent release of The Best of Caillou: Caillou's Summer Vacation on DVD, now I can rest assured that we will be prepared to have this fan favorite with us at home or on the go whenever we need him.
Following along with Caillou as he teaches kids about imagination, animals and outdoor activities, The Best of Caillou: Caillou's Summer Vacation brings viewers with while he visits new and interesting places with his friends and family.
This DVD includes four episodes (that feature 13 fun-filled outdoor adventures), interactive games, coloring pages and parents' information... and when it arrived, the girls were clamoring to watch it right away.
I'm not sure it has been quite so silent in my house in a long time! Both kids were completely mesmerized by Caillou, even though we had seen a few of the episodes already. He just seems to have that effect on them!
We found that this collection has a great variety of Caillou, from racing remote control sailboats with Grandpa to listening to loud airplanes with Daddy to learning to say "Excuse me" when you need to get by someone. Throughout it all, Caillou manages to take ordinary activities and make them into extraordinary make-believe places just by using his imagination.
There are times when I personally think Caillou whines a little more than he should, however, the fact that my kids love him and that each episode passes along a positive lesson are things that I appreciate and this DVD covers many of them.
In the four episodes included (Summer Time, Captain Caillou, Caillou the Explorer, and All Wet!) Caillou covers topics such as trying again after failure, good manners, accidents happen, making friends, patience, dealing with disappointment, helping can be fun, and more. Those sure are all issues that I'm happy to have reinforced for my girls!
With a run time of 110 minutes, The Best of Caillou: Caillou's Summer Vacation is a wonderful compilation for any Caillou fan. Whether your child prefers taking a canoe trip with Caillou or searching for alligators, this DVD has it all. Children are easily inspired by the amazing exploits of this fun-loving character as he travels the world and finds adventure in simple things.
Retailing for around $12.99 - $14.99 (or only $8.99 on Amazon), we're thrilled to have this to bring out whenever we need a Caillou fix at home and it will especially come in handy for long car rides when Little Sister B's "Caillou on! Caillou on!" fill the air. And, just in time for summer vacations everywhere, one person will be able to enjoy this friendly character and his friends as well, because...
One lucky person will win The Best of Caillou: Caillou's Summer Vacation on DVD!
To enter to win: Tell me your plans for the upcoming summer vacation.
Extra Entries (available after the mandatory entry above is completed; please leave a separate comment for each entry in order for them to be counted).
1 Extra Entry (per giveaway entered) - Enter any (or all) of the giveaways running on Thanks, Mail Carrier for the duration of this giveaway. 1 Extra Entry if you follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway by copying and pasting the tweet below and leaving me the link. Tweet daily for an extra entry every day!
WIN a copy of The Best of Caillou: Caillou's Summer Vacation on DVD! Great for any fan! #thxmailcarrier http://bit.ly/ma7AdA #giveaway #win
2 Extra Entries (per follow method) if you follow me with Google Friend Connect, subscribe to my RSS feed, subscribe to Thanks, Mail Carrier by email, become a fan on Facebook or add Thanks, Mail Carrier to your blogroll. 3 Extra Entries if you put my cute button up on your blog. Please leave an address where it can be found. 3 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway linking back to this post. Please leave an address where it can be found. Giveaway will end on June 24th at 11:59pm CST. Do me the favor of leaving an email address or making absolutely sure it is visible in your profile, I have to have a way to contact the winner. The winner will be chosen by random.org and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to contact me or respond to notification or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is open to U.S. residents only.
A big thank you to Caillou's PR for providing a DVD for me for review as well as for one lucky giveaway winner. The opinions shared are my own and honest and if you really need to see more, click here to see how I roll.
