Friday, May 30, 2014

Book Review: "Smart Money Smart Kid: Raising the Next Generation to Win with Money" by Dave Ramsey and His Daughter, Rachel Cruze

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”





  • Hardcover: 256 pages
  • Publisher: Lampo Press (April 22, 2014)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1937077632
  • ISBN-13: 978-1937077631
  • Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 6.2 x 1.1 inches

Synopsis:

"Dave Ramsey and Rachel Cruze teach parents how to raise money-smart kids in a debt-filled world.

In Smart Money Smart Kids, financial expert and best-selling author Dave Ramsey and his daughter Rachel Cruze equip parents to teach their children how to win with money. Starting with the basics like working, spending, saving, and giving, and moving into more challenging issues like avoiding debt for life, paying cash for college, and battling discontentment, Dave and Rachel present a no-nonsense, common-sense approach for changing your family tree."
My Thoughts:
My husband first turned me onto Dave Ramsey a few years back after reading one of his financial books. And, since then, I have shared a handful of book reviews on my blog, that are geared towards both adults and children.  But, this is the first time that I am sharing a review on a book Dave Ramsey has co-wrote with his daughter, Rachel Cruze.
Having read a handful of his other books, I have to say that I really like this new release, not just because of the useful information offered up, but because I like seeing  parents and children team up to write books.  In addition to sharing tips and great information that both tweens/teens and even adults can start implementing with their young children about being financially savvy, the chapters are filled with personal stories of Rachel's childhood, growing up with a financial guru like Dave Ramsey.
Fans of the tell-it-like-it-is author will enjoy this read, which I have to say moved along well.  I oftentimes wondered about Dave's children after hearing him talk about how to prepare for your future and retirement as an adult, and what not to pay for when it comes to your children.  It was nice to hear Rachel talk highly of her father and about what she has learned over the years, to help better herself for a more successful future financially, including how to go to college debt free.
The following chapters make up this new release, that parents and their children should read and talk about.  Growing up in a middle class family, we had enough money to live within our means, but also had to learn how to budget, pay off loans including car and school loans, and how to better prepare for the future. 
  • Work
  • Spend
  • Save
  • Give
  • Budgeting
  • Debt
  • College
  • Contentment
  • Family
  • Generational Handoff

 I walked away with some great financial tips that my husband and I can use now, to help better our girls financially for the future.  And, once they get older, I will definitely be sharing this book with them, as a way to help them learn to handle money and be smart when it comes to spending their hard earned money.
If you are a fan of Dave Ramsey and have children of your own, this is one book worth picking up, and sharing.  Even if your kids don't take the time to read it, it is a great conversation starter to talk to your tweens/teens about being money smart.  I highly recommend it, and have since passed it along to friends with children to read and learn from.
About Dave Ramsey:
Dave Ramsey is the author of the New York Times bestselling books Financial Peace and The Total Money Makeover. His radio program, The Dave Ramsey Show, is heard on more than 450 radio stations throughout the U.S. and transmits Ramsey's inimitable financial advice to more than 4 million listeners each week. Dave also hosts his TV show, The Dave Ramsey show primetime on the Fox Business Network. Many national corporations as well as more than 1 millioin families have benefited from Ramsey's Financial Peace University program and his many LIVE events. www.daveramsey.com"
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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PBS KIDS’ popular WILD KRATTS Series Releasing New DVD on June 10th, "Tiny Trouble" (Review)

Disclosure:  I was sent a review copy from the vendor in order to write up an honest review.  All views shared are mine and mine alone.


THE NEW WILD KRATTS DVD “TINY TROUBLE” OFFERS BIG FUN

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PBS KIDS Series WILD KRATTS Combines Science Education with Fun and Adventure

"PBS Distribution recently announced that it will be releasing two episodes of PBS KIDS’ popular WILD KRATTS series on the new DVD “TINY TROUBLE.” Join brothers and wildlife explorers Martin and Chris Kratt (creators of the award-winning WILD KRATTS, KRATTS’ CREATURES and Emmy-winning ZOBOOMAFOO) as they explore nature, meet up with cool creatures from around the world, and witness never-before-seen wildlife moments. The two episodes featured on this DVD – “Termites vs. Tongues” and “Bugs or Monkeys” – are filled with humor, excitement, and science!

WILD KRATTS transforms Martin and Chris Kratt into animated versions of themselves, allowing the real-life zoologists to visit wild animals in their little-seen habitats and to showcase key science concepts along the way. Geared toward kids ages 6 to 8, each episode of WILD KRATTS presents developmentally-appropriate science inspired by the natural abilities of the animals that the Kratt brothers – and young viewers – meet. The series premiered on PBS KIDS in January 2011 and is part of PBS KIDS’ ongoing commitment to STEM – science, technology, engineering, and math – education for kids. WILD KRATTS airs weekdays on PBS KIDS (check local listings).


“Termites vs. Tongues” -- When a miniaturized Aviva and Koki are carried away by termites, Martin and Chris must infiltrate the termite ranks – as both termite and termite predator – to get them back.

Learning GoalPredators and prey develop specific attacks and defenses to counter each other.

“Bugs or Monkeys” -- While arguing over their next adventure, Chris and Martin meet a group of spider monkeys! But when a miniaturized Martin is carried away by a baby monkey, the rest of the Tortuga crew must work to find him.

Learning GoalCertain animals have unique anatomical features adapted to maneuver in particular environments.


“TINY TROUBLE” will be available on June 10, 2014. The DVD run time is approximately 50 minutes and its SRP is $9.99. In addition to featuring two fun-filled, laugh-out-loud adventures, the DVD also includes special features – coloring pages and activities."

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My Thoughts:

I can't help but sing the catchy theme song every time I think of show.  Out of all the shows on PBS Kids, this is by far our youngest, Bella's, favorite show.  She can't go a day without seeing the Kratt brothers transform into animated characters and go on wild adventures on land in and the ocean.  Another great show that gets girls especially excited about science, Wild Kratts will not only entertain but teach preschooler so much.  Like WordGirl teaching Savannah new words, Wild Kratts teaches Bella about different wild animals, which in turn she loves to talk about, or pretend to be.

These two adventure-filled episodes, which have already aired on television, will delight Wild Kratts fans, as they watch them over and over again.  Even though we received this DVD yesterday, Bella has already watched the two episodes a few times already.  And, I expect her to ask to watch the DVD again tomorrow and for some time to come.  

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About PBS KIDS


PBS KIDS, the number one educational media brand for kids, offers all children the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television, online, mobile and community-based programs.  Kidscreen- and Webby-award winning pbskids.org provides engaging interactive content, including the PBS KIDS video player, now offering free streaming video accessible on computer- and mobile-device-based browsers.  For more information on specific PBS KIDS content supporting literacy, science, math and more, visit pbs.org/, or follow PBS KIDS on Twitter and Facebook.

About Kratt Brothers Company 

Kratt Brothers Company, founded in 1993, has created and produced over 225 episodes of television, including award-winning series: Kratts’ Creatures, Zoboomafoo, Kratt Brothers: Be The Creature and Wild Kratts. Through its full service animation studio, Kratt Brothers Company is currently in production on its fourth season of the twice Emmy-nominated hit, Wild Kratts. www.krattbrothers.com

About PBS Distribution

PBS Distribution is the leading media distributor for the public television community, both domestically and internationally, extending the reach of these programs beyond broadcast while generating revenue for the public television system and our production partners.

PBS Distribution offers a diverse range of programming to our customers, including Ken Burns’s films, documentaries from award-winning series such as NOVA, FRONTLINE, AMERICAN MASTERS, NATURE, and AMERICAN EXPERIENCE, dramas from MASTERPIECE, as well as films from independent producers and popular children’s programming. As a multi-channel distributor, PBS Distribution pursues wholesale/retail sales, consumer and educational sales through PBS-branded catalogs and online shops, and international broadcast and video sales. PBS Distribution is also a leader in offering programming through digital platforms including internet and mobile devices.

WILD KRATTS: TINY TROUBLE
Street Date: June 10, 2014
Genre: Children’s
Run Time: Approximately 50 Minutes
SRP: $9.99
Format: DVD


Disclosure:  I was sent a review copy from the vendor in order to write up an honest review.  All views shared are mine and mine alone.
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EXPLORE THE GREAT OUTDOORS WITH YOUR FAVORITE DINOSAUR TRAIN FRIENDS IN PBS KIDS’ “ADVENTURE CAMP” DVD (Review)

Disclosure:  I was sent a screener copy from the vendor in order to write up an honest review.  All views shared are mine and mine alone.



Courtesy: PBS/PBS Kids

Features the New Interactive Game “River Run!”

"PBS Distribution announced the other day that it will be releasing four stories from PBS KIDS’ popular DINOSAUR TRAIN series produced by The Jim Henson Company, on the new DVD “ADVENTURE CAMP.” Kids will follow Buddy, Shiny, Tiny and Don in four exciting stories as they travel to different ecosystems and learn about erosion, tree lines, rain forests, and canyons.  These are the same stories that premiered in January in the hit one-hour “DINOSAUR TRAIN: Nature Trackers Adventure Camp” special on PBS KIDS, which reached three million total viewers during the week it aired.*

Mr. Conductor and his nephew Gilbert lead Buddy, Tiny, Shiny, Don and friends on an action-packed journey. Throughout their adventures at camp, the group finds courage as they race down rivers, have a snowball fight, climb a tall mountain, ride a zipline over the rainforest and hike down a canyon to dig for fossils! Viewers won’t be able to resist tapping their feet and singing along as the whole gang makes discoveries about the world around them.

DINOSAUR TRAIN embraces and celebrates the fascination that preschoolers have with both dinosaurs and trains, while encouraging basic scientific thinking skills. Buddy and his adoptive family of Pteranodons go on whimsical adventures through prehistoric jungles, swamps, volcanoes, and oceans as they unearth basic concepts in natural science, natural history, and paleontology. The Dinosaur Train is a colorful locomotive, customized to accommodate all kinds of dinosaurs and has the ability to visit the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous worlds. The Train’s Conductor, a knowledgeable Troodon, provides passengers with fascinating facts along the way. DINOSAUR TRAIN airs weekdays on PBS KIDS (check local listings).

Episodes that make up this upcoming Dinosaur Train DVD include...

“Adventure Camp: Rafting” -- Buddy, Tiny, Shiny and Don go river rafting for the first time. Their old pal Jess Hesperornis meets up with them, and they all learn about erosion and the importance of rivers before finishing up their adventure by cruising through some rapids!

Educational Objective: Rivers and streams are ribbons of water that start at a high point and flow downhill – often with streams gathering into rivers. Animals and plants living on land depend on rivers and streams to provide fresh water and nutrients.

“Adventure Camp: Mountain Climbing” -- For their second outing, Buddy, Tiny, Shiny, Don and other friends learn about the tree line as they set out to hike up a mountain. Shiny is determined to get to the top of mountain forest. Buddy wonders if they’ll be able to see anything from the mountaintop, through the tall trees. The kids are amazed that the higher they hike, the shorter the trees and bushes become! Then they reach the tree line – a certain point on the mountain where trees are really small because they don’t have enough air to breathe and the temperature is too cold. In the end, Shiny and all the kids use teamwork to all reach the mountaintop together!

Educational Objective: The timberline, or tree line, is a certain elevation on a mountain where the temperatures are colder, the air is thin and the soil is less moist, making it hard for most plants and trees to grow. Trees may grow as small shrubs. There is less oxygen, so it’s harder for animals to breathe at the tree line and above.

“Adventure Camp: Ziplining” -- The campers are back for another adventure – and this time they’ll be travelling to a rain forest! Once they arrive in the dense rainforest, the campers explore different levels of the ecosystem, including the forest floor and the canopy of leaves at the top of the forest. After a hike through the rainforest, the campers’ adventure culminates as each kid takes a ride on a zipline, where they all get a bird’s eye view of the entire rainforest!

Educational Objective: Rain forests are very dense, warm, wet, forests that are home to a vast array of different life forms. Rain forests get a lot of rain, at least 70 inches per year. Rain forests, often called the “lungs of the Earth,” generate much of the oxygen we breathe.

“Adventure Camp: Canyon Hiking” -- The campers are led by Mr. Conductor and Gilbert on a hike down a canyon, where they can see the different layers of the Mesozoic Era! At first, Lily Lambeosaurus is reluctant to go, thinking that a new adventure sounds hard, but Don convinces her that a new adventure can be worth the effort. At the bottom of the canyon, the kids dig for fossils. Each camper goes home with a “new” Ammonite fossil, and Lily is so glad she tried something new!

Educational Objective: Canyons are deep cuts in the earth’s surface. They are formed by erosion. Erosion is mainly caused by the flow of rivers. It takes millions of years for canyons to become the grandiose natural landmarks they are today. The bottom rocks in canyons can date back billions of years, beyond the Mesozoic. Canyons can also be formed by a shift of the earth’s tectonic plates.

“ADVENTURE CAMP” will be available on June 10, 2014. The DVD has a run time of approximately 50 minutes and an SRP of $7.99. In addition to featuring the above four fun-filled learning adventures, this DVD also includes special features – coloring pages, activities, information for parents, and the new interactive game “River Run!” In this racing game, Buddy and Don paddle through the river collecting insects for Don’s ever-growing collection. Players will learn about river currents and insects as they race to the finish line."

*Source: Nielsen NPower. 12/30/2013 - 1/26/2014. Live+7 AA ratings for PBS and select competitive cable networks. To qualify for the ranker, on-going series must have a minimum 4 telecasts/ month, and a 15 min duration.
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My Thoughts:

This DVD sure did come in handy today as the girls have been sick with a head cold they picked up over the weekend at the science center.  They had spent the day on the couch, and were growing restless after having me read a selection of books to them or playing with the iPads.  Shortly after lunch, the mail came and they saw this and the two other DVDs which will be releasing from PBS Distribution.  Savannah was first to ask to watch the DVD, which Bella seconding the request.

Like other releases to DVD, the episodes included on these DVDs have already aired on television some time ago.  But, that doesn't stop my girls, and fans of the show from enjoying them all over again.  If you didn't know the kids had already seen the episodes, you would think it was the first time based upon their excitement as they watched each one.

We have been watching this show for a couple of years now, and the girls have developed a love for life science and natural history thanks to the Pteranodon family and Dr. Scott.  I love hearing them try to pronounce the different dinosaurs being featured in a given episode, or share their dinosaur knowledge when we visit a local museum where dinosaurs are on exhibit.

With summer fast approaching and long car rides planned, this and other recent PBS Kids shows released to DVD from PBS Distribution will surely come in handy to keep kids entertained, while also teaching them new things.  So, why not make a point to check out this upcoming Dinosaur Train DVD release as well as other hit shows airing on PBS Kids, which are available to own on DVD, to share this summer with your kids? :-)

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About PBS KIDS

PBS KIDS, the number one educational media brand for kids, offers all children the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television, online, mobile and community-based programs.  Kidscreen- and Webby-award winning pbskids.org provides engaging interactive content, including the PBS KIDS video player, now offering free streaming video accessible on computer-and mobile-device-based browsers.  For more information on specific PBS KIDS content supporting literacy, science, math and more, visit pbs.org/, or follow PBS KIDS on Twitter and Facebook.

About the Jim Henson Company

The Jim Henson Company has remained an established leader in family entertainment for over 50 years and is recognized worldwide as an innovator in puppetry, animatronics and digital animation. Best known as creators of the world famous Muppets, Henson has received over 50 Emmy Awards and nine Grammy Awards. Recent credits include the Emmy® nominated Sid the Science Kid, Dinosaur Train, and Pajanimals as well as the new series Doozers, a CG animated preschool series. Features include The Dark Crystal, Labyrinth, MirrorMask, and the upcoming Alexander and the Terrible Horrible No Good Very Bad Day and television productions include Fraggle Rock the sci-fi cult series Farscape, and the new reality competition Jim Henson’s Creature Shop Challenge.

With additional locations in New York and London, The Jim Henson Company is headquartered in Los Angeles on the historic Charlie Chaplin lot, complete with soundstage and postproduction facilities, the Company is also home to Jim Henson’s Creature Shop™, a pre-eminent character-building and visual effects group with international film, television, theme park and advertising clients, as well as Henson Recording Studios, one of the music industry’s top recording facilities known for its world-class blend of state-of-the-art and vintage equipment. The Company’s Henson Alternative brand is currently touring “Puppet-Up! - Uncensored,” a live puppet improvisational show. 

About PBS Distribution

PBS Distribution is the leading media distributor for the public television community, both domestically and internationally, extending the reach of these programs beyond broadcast while generating revenue for the public television system and our production partners.

PBS Distribution offers a diverse range of programming to our customers, including Ken Burns’s films, documentaries from award-winning series such as NOVA, FRONTLINE, AMERICAN MASTERS, NATURE, and AMERICAN EXPERIENCE, dramas from MASTERPIECE, as well as films from independent producers and popular children’s programming. As a multi-channel distributor, PBS Distribution pursues wholesale/retail sales, consumer and educational sales through PBS-branded catalogs and online shops, and international broadcast and video sales. PBS Distribution is also a leader in offering programming through digital platforms including Internet and mobile devices.

DINOSAUR TRAIN: ADVENTURE CAMP
Street Date: June 10, 2014
Genre: Children’s
Run Time: Approximately 50 Minutes
SRP: $7.99
Format: DVD

Disclosure:  I was sent a screener copy from the vendor in order to write up an honest review.  All views shared are mine and mine alone.
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“WORDGIRL: MONKEY BUSINESS” FROM SCHOLASTIC MEDIA AND PBS KIDS ARRIVES ON DVD JUNE 10 (Review)

Disclosure:  I was sent a screener copy from the vendor in order to write up an honest review. All views shared are mine and mine alone.


GO BANANAS!!!
 “WORDGIRL: MONKEY BUSINESS”
FROM SCHOLASTIC MEDIA AND PBS KIDS
ARRIVES ON DVD JUNE 10

Courtesy:  PBS Kids/PBS/Scholastic

The Fifth DVD Released From the Emmy
Award
®-Winning Animated Children’s Program

"PBS Distribution recently announced it will be releasing four stories from PBS KIDS’ popular WORDGIRL series on the new DVD “WORDGIRL: MONKEY BUSINESS.” WORDGIRL® is the critically-acclaimed and award-winning animated series from Scholastic Media, a division of Scholastic, the global children’s publishing, education and media company.  The show follows the life and superhero adventures of WordGirl as she fights crime and enriches vocabulary usage.

In this new DVD, WordGirl and her sidekick Captain Huggy Face fight the good fight against dastardly villains and bad vocabulary! The super duo faces everything from a meat portal to a peanut butter gun, saving the day and instilling a love of language in children all at the same time.  Get ready to be filled with zeal (n., great energy and enthusiasm) when you catch a glimpse (n., a momentary view) of this new DVD!

Don't Mess With the Best/Peanut Butter Battles

WORDGIRL: MONKEY BUSINESS” will be available on DVD June 10, 2014. The DVD run time is approximately 50 minutes and its SRP is $9.99. DVD special features include interactive games, video shorts, and coloring pages. Details about the adventures featured on this DVD are below.

Monkey Business
After a battle, WordGirl accidentally leaves Captain Huggy Face behind (again). So he spends the day doing all of his favorite things. When an overzealous Chuck strikes, it’s up to Captain Huggy Face to single-handedly save the day.

The Meaty Dimension
The Butcher discovers the portal where all of his meat is stored and concocts a plan to trap Huggy and WordGirl so that he can take over the city. Will WordGirl and Huggy be able to outsmart the butcher and get rid of his meat portal for good?

Whammer Anniversary
Mr. and Mrs. Botsford leave Becky to babysit TJ so they can celebrate their anniversary at a local ice cream parlor. When the Whammer can’t get the sundae he orders he starts whamming. Becky has to find a way to save her parents, babysit TJ, and keep her secret identity intact.

Peanut Butter Battles
Chuck adds a new condiment to his arsenal – peanut butter!  The highly sticky substance envelops its victims into a giant ball.  When WordGirl gets hit with a peanut-buttery blast and Huggy has to roll her around town, will she still be able to save the day?

WORDGIRL airs weekdays on PBS KIDS (check local listings)."

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My Thoughts:

Even though this show has been airing on PBS Kids since 2006, it was only recently that Savannah has started to get into the show.  She was first drawn to the show because of WordGirl's monkey sidekick, Huggy, as she thought he was cute.  But, then as she started to watch each episode and add new words to her vocabulary, she was hooked, like so many other children from preschool age through 12 yrs. old.  Both my 7 yr.old nephew and 9 yr. old niece are also fans of this popular animated series, and will visit and catch up on missed episodes, or simply watch repeats with Savannah.  Just hearing them talk about Becky (AKA WordGirl) and how she and Huggy fight crime, while trying not to give away her identity to family and friends.

As a parent, I love how this show is set up.  At the beginning of each short animated episode, young viewers are told to look out for a few new words that will turn up throughout the episode.  A definition as well as short explanation of the words are given both at the beginning and end of this show, making it a perfect educational show that kids can learn with, while being entertained with engaging story lines.

Savannah had already seen the four episodes that make up this upcoming release, but didnt' mind watching them again for the umpteenth time.  There were a few scenes that she was telling Bella what was going to happen, as she remembered them.  Just watching her eyes get wider and her smile, as she repeated the key words was great.  Big words that i would not expect to her know, she is using in her day to day conversations, thanks to WordGirl and this fun educational show which airs daily on PBS Kids.  I can't wait to pick up more WordGirl DVDs to add to Savannah's DVD collection, as I know she and her cousins will be watching them for years to come. :-)


About PBS KIDS
PBS KIDS, the number one educational media brand for kids, offers all children the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television, online, mobile and community-based programs.  Kidscreen- and Webby-award winning pbskids.org provides engaging interactive content, including the PBS KIDS video player, now offering free streaming video accessible on computer- and mobile-device-based browsers.  For more information on specific PBS KIDS content supporting literacy, science, math and more, visit pbs.org, or follow PBS KIDS on Twitter and Facebook.

About Scholastic
Scholastic Corporation (NASDAQ: SCHL) is the world’s largest publisher and distributor of children’s books and a leader in educational technology and related services and children’s media. Scholastic creates quality books and ebooks, print and technology-based learning materials and programs, magazines, multi-media and other products that help children learn both at school and at home.  The Company distributes its products and services worldwide through a variety of channels, including school-based book clubs and book fairs, retail stores, schools, libraries, on-air, and online at www.scholastic.com.

About PBS Distribution
PBS Distribution is the leading media distributor for the public television community, both domestically and internationally, extending the reach of these programs beyond broadcast while generating revenue for the public television system and our production partners.

PBS Distribution offers a diverse range of programming to our customers, including
Ken Burns’s films, documentaries from award-winning series such as NOVA, FRONTLINE, AMERICAN MASTERS, NATURE, and AMERICAN EXPERIENCE, dramas from MASTERPIECE, as well as films from independent producers and popular children’s programming. As a multi-channel distributor, PBS Distribution pursues wholesale/retail sales, consumer and educational sales through PBS-branded catalogs and online shops, and international broadcast and video sales. PBS Distribution is also a leader in offering programming through digital platforms including internet and mobile devices.

WORDGIRL: MONKEY BUSINESS
Street Date: June 10, 2014
Genre: Children’s
Run Time: Approximately 50 Minutes
SRP: $9.99
Format: DVD

Disclosure:  I was sent a screener copy from the vendor in order to write up an honest review. All views shared are mine and mine alone.
Read more »

Summer Fun with Thomas the Tank Engine #DOWT #Giveaway


If the news that Thomas is making a stop in North Conway in July wasn't enough to get the girls excited, I shared with them yesterday that he will also be visiting museums starting in June.


This June Thomas is kicking off his first ever museum tour starting at the Minnesota Children’s Museum, where it will stay for 6 months. The 10-year traveling tour features a  1,500 square foot interactive version of the Island of Sodor will allow children to climb aboard a full-size model of Thomas the Tank Engine.  Children will become real-life conductors and engineers as they build their own trains and race them along a giant track, work together to sort cargo, tend to engines, and more! "

While only the Minnesota Children’s Museum has been names as the initial top of the 10-year museum tour, more dates/locations are expected to be announced soon.  I am hoping that this fun interactive tour will be making a stop near us in either Boston or Hartford.  

As we wait to hear about future museum dates/locations, the girls are getting ready to celebrate Savannah's 4th birthday with a weekend filled with fun in NH.  We will kick off her birthday weekend with a fun afternoon with Thomas and unlimited carnival games, face painting, magic shows and show much more.  Day Out with Thomas has become a tradition in our family since 2011, and we look forward to the event each year.  It has been a couple of years since we have been to the North Conway stop, so this year's visit is one we are looking forward to, as we spend a fun-filled birthday weekend with the girls in NH with the grandparents.


The Day Out With Thomas 2014 Tour is hitting cities all across the country from now through November where Thomas fans can meet and ride on the friendly blue engine while enjoying story time, movie viewings, and more. This year for the first time the life-size Thomas train will be able to talk to his fans!  For tour dates and more information on Day Out With Thomas 2014 please visit www.dayoutwiththomas.com.


For information on Thomas & Friends, visit www.thomasandfriends.com

Follow Thomas & Friends on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thomasandfriends and Twitter @TrueBlueEngine.

--GIVEAWAY--

Thanks to the kind folks at HIT Entertainment, one lucky reader win win a special “Thomas Travel Prize Pack”.  Included in the price pack will be homas book, DVD, Take-n-Play engine, and fun summer travel item, perfect for keeping kids entertained on car rides and flights! 

To enter, please complete the entries on the Rafflecopter form below.  Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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About Thomas & Friends™
Thomas the Tank Engine was created by a father for his son nearly 70 years ago and today is enjoyed by families in more than 185 territories and in 30 languages.  The #1 blue engine and his friends invite children to enter a world of imagination through the tracks of a train and the words of a story. Children embark on adventures with their engine friends while experiencing timeless life lessons of discovery, friendship and cooperation.  Thomas & Friends makes tracks to great destinations on PBS KIDS®, Sprout® and with downloadable episodes available through iTunes. For more information about the world of Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends, please visit www.thomasandfriends.com. Follow Thomas on Facebook at facebook.com/thomasandfriends and Twitter @TrueBlueEngine.

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About HIT Entertainment
HIT Entertainment is one of the world's leading preschool entertainment companies, specializing in building powerful brands based on engaging stories.  HIT Entertainment’s world-class portfolio includes  Thomas & Friends®, Mike the Knight™, Fireman Sam®, Bob the Builder, Barney®, Angelina Ballerina®, Pingu® and Rainbow Magic®.

HIT Entertainment excels at creating and building globally successful brands which capture the hearts and imaginations of preschoolers and their families.  This is achieved through exceptional storytelling in multiple formats, enhanced by creating high quality character-based products and experiences with best-in-class partners. HIT Entertainment’s lines of business span television and home entertainment production, content distribution, digital media, publishing, consumer products and live events and attractions.  HIT Entertainment, a subsidiary of Mattel, Inc., has operations in the UK, US, Canada, Hong Kong and Japan. For more information visit www.hitentertainment.com
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Attention New England Residents: Get Your Tickets Now for "Day Out with Thomas," Making a Stop in North Conway, NH July 11-13 & 18-20 #dayoutwiththomas

Disclosure:  In exchange for  promoting the Day Out with Thomas event through my blog and social media channels, including pre- and post-show coverage, my family will be given complimentary tickets from the show's promoter.  All views shared are mine and mine alone.


JOIN THE TOUR’S MOST EXCITING YEAR EVER AS HIT ENTERTAINMENT DEBUTS TALKING THOMAS THE TANK ENGINE™


The Day Out With Thomas 2014 Tour  has been visiting hitting cities all across the country since April, and now through November.  On each stop of the tour, Thomas fans can meet and ride on the friendly blue engine while enjoying story time, movie viewings, and more. This year for the first time the life-size Thomas train will be able to talk to his fans!


Preschoolers will get the thrill of their lives when Thomas the Tank Engine™ steams across the country this year.  When Thomas arrives at North Conway, NH for the Day Out with Thomas™: The Thrill of the Ride Tour 2014, he will not only take his fans for a ride, but also talk to them for the very first time on the tour!  The event, which takes place July 11-13 & 18-20, will be hosted by the Conway Scenic Railroad in NH, and presented by HIT Entertainment and sponsored by MEGA Brands, a leading toy company, and all inclusive Hard Rock Hotels.


Day Out with Thomas: The Thrill of the Ride Tour 2014 is a fun-filled event that provides children of all ages the opportunity to climb aboard and take a ride with Thomas as well as participate in Thomas & Friends themed activities.  The tour, now in its 19th year, will make stops in 42 U.S. cities and is expected to welcome nearly one million passengers in 2014.  For two back-to-back weekends, little engineers and their families are invited to take a 25 minute ride on their favorite engine, meet Sir Topham Hatt®, Controller of the Railway and enjoy a day of Thomas & Friends themed activities including arts & crafts, storytelling and more, when it makes a stop at the Conway Scenic Railroad in North Conway, NH this summer.


Thomas the Tank Engine rides depart every 45 minutes, rain or shine. Departure times begin at 9:15 am through 3:15 pm each day of the event (July 11-13 & 18-20).  Tickets for the Day Out With Thomas: The Thrill of the Ride Tour 2014 are $19 for ages two and up.


For tour dates and more information on Day Out With Thomas 2014 please visitwww.dayoutwiththomas.com.

Thomas the Tank Engine is star of Thomas & Friends® making tracks to great destinations on PBS KIDS® and Sprout®.  Along with his engine friends, Thomas captivates children in more than 145 countries and 30 languages. The #1 blue engine and his friends invite children to enter a world of imagination through the tracks of a train and the words of a story. To date, 200 million Thomas & Friends books and e-books have been sold and the CGI-animated Thomas & Friends series is more popular than ever, rating as one of the top programs for children ages 2 to 5.  

For general information about the tour or to find a Day Out With Thomas: The Thrill of the Ride Tour 2014 event near you, visit www.ticketweb.com/dowt.

For information on Thomas & Friends, visit www.thomasandfriends.com

Follow Thomas & Friends on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thomasandfriends and Twitter @TrueBlueEngine.

--GET YOUR TICKETS NOW--

Each ticket purchase includes:


**A 25-minute (approximate) ride with Thomas the Tank Engine and hear Thomas greet his fans!
**Meet Sir Topham Hatt, Controller of the Railway
**A Thomas & Friends Imagination Station; featuring stamps, temporary tattoos, hands-on arts & crafts, train tables, and coloring sheets.
**Storytelling, video viewing, live music, and  unlimited carnival rides with tickets.

Tickets are available online through TicketWeb for only $19 person, or by calling 866-468-7630 (service fees apply). They also can be purchased directly from Conway Scenic Railroad and picked up on the day of the event with no fees involved.

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About Thomas & Friends™
Thomas the Tank Engine was created by a father for his son nearly 70 years ago and today is enjoyed by families in more than 185 territories and in 30 languages.  The #1 blue engine and his friends invite children to enter a world of imagination through the tracks of a train and the words of a story. Children embark on adventures with their engine friends while experiencing timeless life lessons of discovery, friendship and cooperation.  Thomas & Friends makes tracks to great destinations on PBS KIDS®, Sprout® and with downloadable episodes available through iTunes. For more information about the world of Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends, please visit www.thomasandfriends.com. Follow Thomas on Facebook at facebook.com/thomasandfriends and Twitter @TrueBlueEngine.

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About HIT Entertainment
HIT Entertainment is one of the world's leading preschool entertainment companies, specializing in building powerful brands based on engaging stories.  HIT Entertainment’s world-class portfolio includes  Thomas & Friends®, Mike the Knight™, Fireman Sam®, Bob the Builder, Barney®, Angelina Ballerina®, Pingu® and Rainbow Magic®.

HIT Entertainment excels at creating and building globally successful brands which capture the hearts and imaginations of preschoolers and their families.  This is achieved through exceptional storytelling in multiple formats, enhanced by creating high quality character-based products and experiences with best-in-class partners. HIT Entertainment’s lines of business span television and home entertainment production, content distribution, digital media, publishing, consumer products and live events and attractions.  HIT Entertainment, a subsidiary of Mattel, Inc., has operations in the UK, US, Canada, Hong Kong and Japan. For more information visit www.hitentertainment.com

Disclosure:  In exchange for  promoting the Day Out with Thomas event through my blog and social media channels, including pre- and post-show coverage, my family will be given complimentary tickets from the show's promoter.  All views shared are mine and mine alone.
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Award-Winning Family Music Artist, Eric Herman Releases 'Party Animal' on June 3rd -- Check It Out! (Review)

Disclosure:  I was sent a review copy from the vendor in order to write up an honest review.  All views shared are mine and mine alone.


Eric Herman, the YouTube star (50 million views), dad and nationally touring artist, is back with a new album of original songs. Eric's music crosses genres and age levels. 


Available June 3rd


"Eric Herman, a nationally touring, award-winning family music artist and YouTube music video star, has created a new album of songs ranging from funky dance tunes to soft and sweet celebrations of life. Five years in the making, Party Animal features guest artists DidiPop, members of Recess Monkey and Chris Ballew (The Presidents of the USA/Caspar Babypants). The energetic “jump, jump, jump and jump and jump” song “November First,” was co-written with Children’s Poet Laureate Kenn Nesbitt, a frequent creative collaborator.  Although this one-man band often performs solo with his "Invisible Band," he now also leads a fully visible live band called Eric Herman and the Thunder Puppies."

Want a taste of what to expect with Eric's new CD?  Check out this fun new video of "November First," which will you find on the "Party Animal" CD...




"I'm shakin' like the bacon daddy's makin' with his eggs."

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My Thoughts:

It has been five years since Eric Herman released his last CD.  But, the wait is finally over, and I have to say that Eric has a winner with his 6th CD.  Filled with funny songs both kids and adults will enjoy listening and singing along to, Eric's new CD will definitely become a staple during summer road trips this year. 

Even though we have only had Eric's new CD, Party Animal, for about a week now, the girls already have a handful of his songs memorized, thanks to a recent car ride during this past Memorial Day weekend to visit family, as well as listening to the CD at home, while dancing around to the funky beats.  The CD has 10 tracks in total, and each will entertain and put a smile on your face as you listen to it.  Our personal favorites include "Can We Buy a New Car (So I Can Have a Balloon)?", which has a fun county feel to it, as well as the Beatle-esque "The Best Parts," and the powerful rock anthem, "Alive."

As each song plays, you can help but listen to Eric's lyrics, as they are fun and tap into your child's imagination.  My girls have been fans of Eric's popular song, "Elephant Song," and love pretending to be an elephant with a long trunk swaying from side to side, as they listen to this cute song. :-)


Eric, a father himself, knows how to entertain children of all ages, and this can be seen with his hit albums that he has released over the years.  I personally love how he uses different musical styles with his songs, letting children experience different beats and sounds.  And, with silly lyrics and catchy chorus lines, kids and adults can't help but want to get up and move around while listening to Eric's music.  

If you are looking for some great kid-friendly music to pick up for upcoming road trips, or just to get kids active and off the couch this summer, you will definitely want to check out Eric Herman's new CD release, hitting store shelves on June 4th, "Party Animal."  And, get ready to move and groove and laugh out loud, as you fall in love with the 10 new songs from Eric.  We can't get enough of this new CD, and am happy that we have another CD to add to our growing Eric Herman collection.


-- See Eric Herman on Tour -- 

Eric's traveling to many cities this summer, bringing his new tunes to you. He's in Texas, Louisiana, Oregon and Washington in June, and California, Utah and Washington in July. Details about Eric's extremely packed summer concert tour are available on Eric's schedule page.

Disclosure:  I was sent a review copy from the vendor in order to write up an honest review.  All views shared are mine and mine alone.

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