Thursday, March 31, 2016

Arriving on DVD, April 5th - WILDFLOWER -- A Powerful, Must-See Movie About Hope, Triumph and Healing - Review and #Giveaway #‎Wildflower‬

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.



PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER ‘WILDFLOWER’ OFFERS MESSAGE OF HOPE 



“Gripping and intense… This film needs to be seen!”– Dove Foundation

I have been blogging since 2008 and have reviewed many movies, including countless faith-based films.  Out of all the movies I have reviewed, I have to say that WILDFLOWER ranks up near the top of one of my favorites.  Why you ask?  Well, if you have seen faith-based films then you know that they are either hit or miss.  Some are cheesy or some really push God on you go.  But, then there are a few instances where a faith-based movie is made so well that you forget you are watching a faith-based movie.  The story line and plot really consume you in a good way and keep your eyes fixated on the television as you sit on the edge of the couch wondering what will happen next.


I have to admit after seeing the trailer for WILDFLOWER I wasn't really sure I would like it.  Yes, it was full of drama...but, I had never heard of the main characters in the film, which usually means the film is low budget or may not be that good.  I am so glad I gave this movie a chance as it really was good and I love the actors and actresses they chose to play these characters.  With all the complexities of the characters, it was nice to see how their story lines meshed together and worked off of one another.


WILDFLOWER follows a young girl who is carrying around baggage from a traumatic experience she keeps seeing in her head.  She has no idea what all this means and no one believes her...that is until she meets Josh, a young man who recently lost his girlfriend in an accident, which he blames himself for.  Together Chloe and Josh learn to trust each other and connect on a deeper level through their faith, that helps them both overcome their separate grief and finally move forward with their lives.


Every one of us has found ourselves in a low point of our lives.  We could be suffered from grief after the loss of a loved one, trying to come to terms over a failed relationship, our own personal struggles with faith and God, etc.  No matter our low points, our trust in God and knowing that he is always with us and loves us, helps us reconcile our past so that we can move forward and live our lives like God wants us to.  Yes, we all struggle with sorrow and past regrets, but we can't dwell on these things.  Instead we have to find strength in our relationships with others and God to move forward.  Chloe and Josh don't want their struggles to define them, and this movie is a remarkable and oh so moving story of on how these two characters confront their past traumas so that they can feel free and live life with purpose and meaning and without regret.


This story really pulled at my heartstrings as I felt a personal connection to the story and the underlying messages.  After finding out I had cancer and then having to undergo treatment,  I found myself questioning my faith and wondering why God dealt this set of cards to me.  I had family and friends telling me that God only gives you what He thinks you can handle, or that God is there for you, you just have to trust in your higher power that everything will be OK.  But, if you ever experienced cancer or another life threatening disease, you know you don't have a clear head and that you question "why?" many times.  I found myself going through a dark period near the end of treatment when I didn't think I could handle it anymore and found my strength dissipating. But, I found my way back to God and my faith helped me through it.  And, now I can say that my cancer doesn't define me.  It has, however, made me a stronger person.  And, if I could take on and beat cancer, I can take on anything life (not God) deals me.  


WILDFLOWER is a must see movie for those who like inspiring movies.  Get ready to be moved both emotionally and spiritually.  And, don't forget the tissues, as there will be scenes that will pull at your heartstrings and tear up.  I can't stop raving about this emotional raw and captivating movie and can't wait for you all to see it when it arrives on DVD on April 5th. 


Here is more about this upcoming release, including the official movie trailer...


Synopsis: 


Creatively gifted with a resilient spirit, college student Chloe Moray (Ramos) finds solace from a difficult childhood in her art. But when a terrifying dream begins to recur night after night, Chloe starts to believe that it might be a suppressed memory and that she may be connected to the strange disappearance of a teenage girl twelve years earlier. Her search to find the answers sends her on a journey that forces Chloe to confront her own past traumas, while at the same time, helps her unlock a mystery that may bring a killer






"With an underlying message of hope for victims of trauma, WILDFLOWER explores the mind of a young art student as she pieces together clues in the mystery of a missing girl. In the search for truth, her mind begins to unlock memories of her own painful past, which have been blocked for many years."

WILDFLOWER is a powerful reminder that hope can be found even in the darkest, loneliest moments. WILDFLOWER offers message of hope for those going through trials – "You’re not alone” Importance of staying connected and involved in the lives of your kids

Website: http://wildflowerthemovie.com/


Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wildflowerthemovie



--GIVEAWAY--


I am excited to offer one lucky Inspired by Savannah reader the opportunity to win a copy of WILDFLOWER on DVD to enjoy with your family and share with family and friends.  To enter my giveaway, just complete the entries on the Rafflecopter form below.  Good luck!


a Rafflecopter giveaway



"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

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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Santa Cruz Organic Peanut Powder -- A Must Have Pantry Staple + Recipes and #Giveaway

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


Santa Cruz Organic Blog Ambassador



Have you heard of peanut powders, or used them in your cooking?  I, for one, hadn't heard of them...that was until the kind folks at Santa Cruz Organic sent along two packages of their peanut powders for me to try out.  Thankfully, they included an easy to make Apple Peanut Granola recipe card, as I had no idea when I first saw the peanut powder what to do with it.


If you are unfamiliar with peanut powder like I was, here is some background on this new must have pantry staple...


Peanut Powder

Available Size(s) 6.5 OZ
Gluten Free
85% less fat than organic natural peanut butter
65% fewer calories than organic natural peanut butter
7g protein per serving
Nutritional Information
Serving Size 3 Tbsp (15g) 
Servings Per Container About 12

It’s time to shake off those winter blues and get ready for the warmer days ahead. In honor of the season, Santa Cruz Organic has created a new spin on a pantry staple with Santa Cruz Organic Peanut Powder. Peanut Powder gives you classic peanut flavor without the fat for a lighter version you’ll love.

Peanut Powder with Milled Chia Seeds

Available Size(s) 6.5 OZ
Gluten Free
80% less fat than natural organic peanut butter
65% fewer calories than natural organic peanut butter
2g fiber per serving
6g protein per serving
650mg ALA Omega-3 fatty acid per serving

Nutritional Information
Serving Size 3 Tbsp (15g) 
Servings Per Container About 12

Try these tips for a lighter, brighter spring:


·         "Don’t buy – DIY. This recipe for homemade Apple Peanut Granola provides a nourishing breakfast that doubles as an easy and portable snack. No mystery ingredients here!

·         Practice sustainability for a spring that’s good for you and for the planet. Try to incorporate one new habit each month, whether it’s recycling, conserving water or increasing your home’s efficiency.

·         Substitute Santa Cruz Organic Peanut Powder for traditional peanut butter in your smoothies and favorite recipes. With at least 80% less fat and 65% fewer calories than natural organic peanut butter, it’s a great way to lighten up your diet. Each serving of Peanut Powder also has 6g of protein."


Peanut Powders

In addition to whipping up a batch of Apple Peanut Granola, which I was surprised the two picky eaters in my house ate it right up and kept asking for more, I have tried hand at homemade smoothies, as a way to cut back on sugary drinks I consume in a day.  Now I would never be one for a peanut butter shake...I am more of a fruity girl...I have to say the tropical green smoothie with Chia (the recipe is included on the back of the Santa Cruz Organic Peanut Powder with milled chia seeds package) was my favorite, with the peanut banana smoothie (recipe found on the back of the Santa Cruz Organic Peanut Powder from roasted peanuts package) a close second.  


Peanut Banana Smoothie
Get the Peanut Banana Smoothie recipe


In addition to using this powder in recipes for smoothies and granola, I have found many other uses including muffins, hummus and sauces.

Here is the Apple Peanut Granola recipe I mentioned earlier I was sent and tried out.  If you get a chance to pick up Santa Cruz Organic Peanut Powder on your next shopping trip, this is one recipe you will want to try.  It is great for on-the-go snacking, breakfast, or a quick mid-day pick-me-up.

Apple Peanut Granola



Apple Peanut Granola

Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup pecan halves, broken
  • 1/4 cup brown cane sugar or brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 cup Santa Cruz Organic® Apple Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Santa Cruz Organic® Peanut Powder with Milled Chia Seeds
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions

  1. HEAT oven to 350°F. Combine oats, pecans, brown cane sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt in large bowl.
  2. MICROWAVE apple sauce, peanut powder, maple syrup, coconut oil and vanilla in small microwave-safe bowl on HIGH 30 seconds. Stir until combined. Pour over oat mixture. Stir until evenly coated. Spread evenly on 2 (15 x 10 x 1-inch) baking pans, breaking up any clumps.
  3. Bake 25 to 30 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to large bowl. Cool completely. Store in airtight container.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1/10 of recipe, abt 1/2 cup
Calories Per Serving: 250
Total Fat Grams: 11g
Calories From Fat Grams: 100
Saturated Fat Grams: 2g
Saturated Fat Grams Percent Daily Value: 10%
Sodium: 140mg
Sodium Percent Daily Value: 6%
Carbohydrates: 34g
Carbohydrates Percent Daily Value: 11%
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Dietary Fiber Percent Daily Value: 20%
Sugars: 13g
Protein: 5g
Calcium Percent Daily Value: 2%
Vitiman C Percent Daily Value: 6%
Iron Percent Daily Value: 10%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
My husband loves chia seeds, so I knew the Peanut Powder with milled chia seeds would be the first one he reached for.  Like me, he had never heard of peanut powder before.  He opened the bag and took a sniff.  "Wow," he says, "This smells great."  And, that night, he surprised me by whipping together the Peanut Butter Hummus with Chia that he served up with pita chips and tortilla chips.  Amazed that he was making something in the kitchen, I gave it a try.  This recipe made me a fan of Chia.  I couldn't get over the rich nutty flavor you get with this powder.  But, the best part of the whole experience next to seeing my husband in the kitchen was reading the nutritional label and finding out that this organic peanut powder has less fat than other natural organic peanut butter.  

When I decided to get in better shape this year, I took a look at my diet and tried to eliminate foods that were high in fat. Peanut butter, although a favorite of mine, had to be cut out...well, at each I cut down on my consumption, as I wanted to steer clear of the fat.  But, now that I know about peanut powders and know how great they taste and their many uses, I am making a point to stock up on Santa Cruz Organic peanut powders to have on hand in the pantry.  You never know when you crave a peanut banana smoothie or want to a nutty flavor to your muffins.

To learn more about these two peanut powders from Santa Cruz Organic and see their nutritional facts for yourself, visit http://www.santacruzorganic.com/products/peanut-powders.

If you have trouble locating Santa Cruz Organic Peanut Powder or their other product offerings including apple sauce, use their handy store locator available on their website.  This will help you locate in your area that carries Santa Cruz Organic. Locate a store now -- http://www.santacruzorganic.com/locator.

--GIVEAWAY--

Peanut Powder with Milled Chia Seeds

Thanks to the kind folks at Santa Cruz Organic, one lucky Inspired by Savannah reader will have a chance to try out this new peanut powder, while also scoring some neat swag from the vendor.  To enter, please complete the entries on the Rafflecopter form.  One winner will be randomly selected to win a  package of Santa Cruz Organic Peanut Powder, along with some cool blogger swag.  Good luck!
---


About Santa Cruz Organic: As a pioneer organic brand, Santa Cruz Organic® was the first to have a wide range of organic, 100 percent juices and blends and the first juice processor to use all organic fruit sourced from growers certified by an independent, third-party certification organization.  With a history of developing innovative products, Santa Cruz Organic currently offers more than 60 organic items ranging from organic fruit juices and lemonades to organic fruit sauces, chocolate syrups, peanut butters and fruit spreads. Visit www.santacruzorganic.com for more information.

All Santa Cruz Organic products are Certified USDA Organic Non-GMO Project® Verified.

Disclosure:  I was sent a sample from the vendor in order to write up an honest review. All views shared are mine and mine alone.
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Wednesday, March 30, 2016

The Hills Are Alive in THE VON TRAPP FAMILY: A LIFE OF MUSIC - Available April 5th on DVD, Digital HD and On Demand - Review and #Giveaway

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.



THE VON TRAPP FAMILY: 
A LIFE OF MUSIC


Ever since I was little, I have been a fan of The Sound of Music and the von Trapp family.  And, when I was in high school I did a whole research product on the family.  So, when they recently had the Sound of Music live on television, I like so many other von Trapp family fans was excited.  And, then it that wasn't enough, I found out about this upcoming DVD release.  Thanks to advance copy sent to me for review I didn't have to wait until April 5th when it releases to watch it.  I got in the mail this afternoon and just finished watching it.  What an amazing movie.  Based on a true story about the von Trapp family this inspirational movie shares Agathe von Trapp's triumphs all while pursuing her musical dreams.  Audiences of all ages will enjoy this movie.  And, because I am a homeschooling parent I can definitely see this movie coming in handy for family's wanting to cover the Sound of Music or do a music appreciation class focusing on Agathe von Trapp.  

Having done a research paper about the von Trapp family back in high school and being a fan, I thought I knew everything about Agathe's story.  But, this movie shared things I didn't know and was truly an inspirational story that is not to be missed.  If you love based on real life movies or are just looking for a great family-friendly movie to watch, then I highly recommend picking up a copy of this film, when it arrives on DVD, Digital HD and On Demand April 5 from Lionsgate.

Here is more about this upcoming release...

"The hills come alive when The von Trapp Family: A Life of Music arrives on DVD (plus Digital), Digital HD and On Demand April 5 from Lionsgate. Follow Agathe von Trapp’s incredible real life journey to develop her own voice and pursue her musical dreams despite tremendous hardship. The von Trapp Family: A Life of Music DVD will be available for the suggested retail price of $19.98.

Based on the autobiography Memories Before and After the Sound of Music by Agathe von Trapp, this unforgettable movie follows the von Trapp family’s incredible journey from the perspective of Agathe, the eldest daughter. As war encroached upon her family and friends, Agathe embarked on an adventure filled with remarkable twists and turns, joys and disappointments. But despite the struggles through the dark times, there was always the saving grace of music."

CAST
Matthew Macfadyen - Anna Karenina, Frost/Nixon
Eliza Bennett - Inkheart, The Prince & Me
Yvonne Catterfeld - Beauty and the Beast
Cornelius Obonya - TV’s “White Beauty”
Johannes Nussbaum - TV’s “Tatort”
Annette Dasch - TV’s “The Metropolitan Opera HD Live”
and Rosemary Harris - Spider-man, This Means War

--GIVEAWAY--



Thanks to the kind folks at Lionsgate, three (3) lucky Inspired by Savannah readers will win a copy of this upcoming DVD release to enjoy with their family.  To enter, please complete the entries on the Rafflecopter form below.  Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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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Buy a Specially Marked Tommee Tippee Product and Get a FREE Personalized Coffee Mug from Snapfish @TommeeTippee_NA @SnapfishUS




If you have little ones then you probably have a space on your counter designated for all their sippy cups and bottles and other feeding supplies.  With two little ones I found myself running out of space on the shelf and resorted to filling a corner of my kitchen counter with all their bottles and then cups as they got older.  I could never part with their bottles and cups as they each had their own favorites and at any given point would ask for one and I needed to have it within arms reach.  While my girls are no longer babies, we still rely on Tommee Tippee for their insulated cups with straws as well as their mealtime products for my girls.  The girls still have favorite cups -- Savannah's is blue and purple and Bella's is pink and green.  So, you can imagine what my kitchen counter looks like...a rainbow of sorts. :-)

I love when brands I trust and recommend to family and friends offer fun deals and promotions for their loyal customers.  And, right now Tommee Tippee is offers customers the opportunity to purchase specially marked cups and mealtime products and get a FREE 11 oz. photo mug from Snapfish.  How cool is that!?  I for one love personalized gifts like this and have so many mugs in the cabinet from Snapfish that I created with the girls' photos.  I love having family and friends over for coffee and talking about how the girls have grown based on the cup they are drinking out of. We admire the photos...well, I usually get teary eyed knowing that they are no longer babies, but, then smile as I love the girls they are becoming.  I guess I will be making more room on my coffee cup shelve for another personalized photo mug from Snapfish thanks to this amazing Buy 1 Get 1 One Free (of sorts) offer.  

Want to take advantage of this Tommee Tippee and Snapfish offer?  You will have to act fast as the promotion ends on June 30th.  When visiting your local Target, Walmart or Babies R Us store be on the lookout for Tommee Tippee products with a yellow sticker noting the Snapfish Free mug offer.  This is what you will be looking for...


The offer is currently stickered on cups (excluding single valve) and mealtime (plates, bowls, etc) products. Cups can be purchased at Babies R Us, Target, or Walmart, and mealtime products can be purchased at Babies R Us. To celebrate the partnership, we have a special March activity for you!

You know you can never have enough cups or plates for your kids, right?  So, why not take advantage of this offer and get a gift for you or to give to someone special in your life.  Like kids and their bottles and sippy cups, parents (and grandparents) also can't have enough coffee mugs.  Just take a look in my kitchen...I have a whole 3-shelf cabinet filled with them. :-)

I can't wait to see what photo mug you create when you take advantage of this special Tommee Tippee and Snapfish FREE mug offer.  So, be sure to share your photos once you receive your cup.  Now, to decide on what pictures of the girls to add to my new coffee cup from Snapfish. :-) Cheers!


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NICKELODEON LAUNCHES BRAND-NEW PAW PATROL PUPS TAKE FLIGHT APP (Review)

Disclosure:  I was provided a promotional code to download and review this app from the vendor.  However, all views shared are mine and mine alone.


NICKELODEON LAUNCHES BRAND-NEW
PAW PATROL PUPS TAKE FLIGHT APP


 
 
"Preschoolers can go on all-new aerial adventures with their favorite PAW Patrol pups with Nickelodeon’s brand-new PAW Patrol Pups Take Flight app, based on the hit television series. Nickelodeon’s latest curriculum-driven preschool app helps prepare preschoolers for kindergarten by fostering important math skills through shape recognition, number recognition and counting/enumeration. The app is available now on the App Store for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch.

iPad Screenshot 1

 
In PAW Patrol Pups Take Flight, users and their pups--Chase, Marshall, Skye, Rubble, Rocky and Zuma--will take to the skies in the brand-new Air Patroller vehicle to earn treats and badges, while avoiding obstacles and locating special objects. The app features three exciting locations: Snowy Mountain, The Rocky Canyon and Volcano Island.
 

iPad Screenshot 2


PAW Patrol Pups Take Flight is the third PAW Patrol app, following the popular PAW Patrol Pups to the Rescue, featured as one of the Best New Apps on the App Store homepage, and PAW Patrol Rescue Run, ranked #1 in Kids and Education category. To date, Nickelodeon has launched more than 30 preschool apps including top-performing titles like PAW Patrol Rescue Run (problem-solving and social skills), Blaze and the Monster Machines (STEM), Team Umizoomi (math), Bubble Guppies Animal School Day (science), and the award-winning Nick Jr. Draw and Play (creativity and imagination). 

iPad Screenshot 3

PAW Patrol is a hit CG-animated series starring a pack of heroic rescue pups–Chase, Marshall, Rocky, Rubble, Zuma, Everest and Skye–who are led by a tech-savvy 10-year-old boy named Ryder. Together they work hard to show the people of Adventure Bay that “no job is too big, no pup is too small!” In partnership with Spin Master Entertainment, the series features a curriculum that focuses on citizenship, social skills and problem-solving. PAW Patrol is the number-one preschool series on Nickelodeon and airs weekdays at 12 p.m. (ET/PT)."

---

My Thoughts:

Savannah is a huge Paw Patrol fan.  You have probably noticed her wearing a Paw Patrol shirt in most, if not all the posts I have shared a photo of her in.  I don't even have to ask what she wants to wear in the AM as I know I will get the same answer...Paw Patrol.  In addition to dressing from head to foot literary (hat to shoes), Savannah also has countless toys, movies, books, etc. featuring her favorite Paw Patrol pups. And, if that wasn't enough she also has our iPads filled with Paw Patrol videos and games.  So, I knew just the right person to ask when recently approached to review the new Paw Patrol Pups Take Flight app.  

What I love most about these types of apps is that they are made with little ones in mind.  The game concept and controls are made just for kids, so parents don't have to sit down and teach them how to play the game or what do.  As soon as the app was loaded on our iPad, Savannah was off and flying with it. :-)  The app itself is geared towards preschool and Kindergarten aged children, even though I know some Paw Patrol a little older who would love this game.  Through a fun flying game that takes place in 3 different locations, fans of Paw Patrol can choose their favorite pup to take to the sky, as they use and build upon their math skills to complete mini missions.  Completing these mini games will not only advance your child through the 30 different levels, each which increases by difficulty as the game goes on, but your child will also earn badges and collect pup treats, thus unlocking new moves and levels.

iPad Screenshot 4

iPad Screenshot 5

Savannah hasn't been able to put this game down since I added it to our iPad the other day.  She is already on level 20.  As a parent I love seeing her have fun, while also learning.  This game has her working on shape and number recognition, as well as coutning and enumeration.

I highly recommend this new app for families with preschoolers, and are looking a fun, yet educational game that will help prepare your little ones for kindergarten.  And, if they are a Paw Patrol fan, they will love it even more, seeing their favorite pups take to the sky, like my Savannah was.


 Disclosure:  I was provided a promotional code to download and review this app from the vendor.  However, all views shared are mine and mine alone.
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TWINKLE TOES LIGHTS UP NEW YORK Dancing Its Way to DVD on 4/5 + Fun SKETCHERS Twinkle Toes Sneakers (2 Pairs) and DVD #Giveaway


NEW ANIMATED FEATURE FROM SKECHERS

GRANTED “FAMILY APPROVED” SEAL BY DOVE FOUNDATION

Twinkle Toes® Lights Up New York Set Arrives to

Digital HD on March 22 and DVD on April 5
Twinkle Toes Lights Up New York


Fans of Twinkle Toes will be excited to hear that "Twinkle Toes Lights Up New York" which was in theaters this month is hitting store shelves on April 5th.  My oldest daughter saw the movie with her cousin when she had a sleepover at my parents and loved it.  We had to go out right after that and pick her up a pair of Twinkle Toes shoes from Sketchers, and her cousin bought a matching pair.  My daughter has been asking about this movie and when it was coming to DVD so that she could share with her sister and watch again.  I haven't told her yet of this upcoming release as I want it to be a surprise. :-)

Here is more about this upcoming DVD release, and be sure to enter my giveaway following the movie trailer for a chance to win two pairs of Sketchers Twinkle Toes Sneakers and this new Twinkle Toes DVD. 

Synopsis



"Inspired by the incredibly popular bright and colorful Skechers Girls’ footwear collection and a follow up to TWINKLE TOES: THE MOVIE, the new film is the second feature-length animated adventure for 14-year old Twinkle Toes—also known as the title character Twinkle Toes. The esteemed Dove Foundation has given the film its “Family Approved” seal of approval and declares that TWINKLE TOES LIGHTS UP NEW YORK is an electrifying tale to motivate the entire family.



It’s the last day of school and 14 year-old Grace (aka “Twinkle Toes”) has been dreaming of the ultimate summer vacation with her best friends, Sporty Shorty and Jordan.  But when Twinkle Toes’ Dad gets a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to direct a Broadway musical, Twinkle Toes is swept from her small-pond suburban life and thrown in the hustle and bustle of New York City for the summer.  As Twinkle Toes learns the ins-and-outs of the Big Apple and Broadway, she impresses the show’s choreographer and is invited to be a part of the show’s cast alongside the teenage starlet, Olivia Conners.  



But when Twinkle Toes gets a taste of the Broadway limelight, the chance for stardom overwhelms Twinkle Toes and the show is ruined!  To make things right, Twinkle Toes must use all her creativity, smarts, and dancing skills to help her new friends and save the show! 

“We’re excited that Twinkle Toes fans around the world will soon experience a new story starring their favorite Skechers character,” said Michael Greenberg, president of SKECHERS. “She may have started as a face for our top selling fun footwear collection for girls, but Twinkle Toes has evolved into a dynamic character who is more than just an animated ambassador for our brand. From shoes to toys to the movies, girls can’t get enough of Twinkle Toes and we know this adventure will be one that kids will want to watch again and again.”




Twinkle Toes footwear has been an integral component to the SKECHERS KIDS’ business since 2008. The girls’ collection has since expanded to include light-up features and styles with music called Twinkle Wishes. The line continues to be supported by an ongoing impactful marketing campaign starring the animated Twinkle Toes character with two spots currently airing on television."

--Twinkle Toes SKETCHERS Shoes (2 Pairs) and DVD Giveaway--



In honor of the film's upcoming DVD release, the kind folks at Cinedigm and SKETCHERS wanted to give one lucky Inspired by Savannah reader a chance to win two (2) pairs of Sketchers Twinkle Toes Sneakers, along with the upcoming TWINKLE TOES LIGHTS UP NEW YORK DVD release to enjoy.  To enter this extraordinary sweepstakes opportunity, please complete the entries on the Rafflecopter form below.  Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Tuesday, March 29, 2016

New Children's Book from Award-Winning Author, Carole Roman - Can a Princess Be a Firefighter? -- Includes Author Q&A and #Giveaway




Back in February I participated in a fun book blog tour for Carole P. Roman’s "If You Were Me and Live In … Italy".  In my post I shared my personal thoughts on this book and how I have been a fan of the author's since first stumbling upon her books and sharing them with my girls.  So, when I heard she was releasing a new book called Can a Princess Be a Firefighter?, I had to reach out and see about sharing not only an author Q&A, but see if she would be willing to offer on lucky Inspired by Savannah reader the chance to win a copy of this new children's book.  Not only did Carole say "yes" to the interview, but she was excited and more than willing to offer a copy of her new release for giveaway. :-)  


Before I share the Author Q&A and giveaway (scroll down to learn more and enter today), please enjoy a brief synopsis of this sure to be hit with your little girl(s) from one of my favorite children's authors, Carole P. Roman...



Synopsis: 
Two little girls pepper their father with questions about whether or not they can be a profession and still be a princess. Motivated by her granddaughter's fascination with all things 'princess,' Carole P. Roman penned this adorable poem celebrating all the wonderful possibilities waiting ahead for them.
About the book: 
Can a Princess Be a Firefighter? by Carole Roman
ISBN: 978-1530361847
Publisher: CreateSpace
Date of publish: March 2016
Pages: 32
S.R.P.: $12.99
About the Author: 
Carole P. Roman
Award winning author Carole P. Roman is a former teacher turned businesswoman. She has successfully run a family business with her husband. Her most favorite job is being grandmother to her many grandchildren. She currently lives on Long Island with her husband.
Her first book, “Captain No Beard - An Imaginary Tale of a Pirate's Life” has been named to Kirkus Reviews' Best of 2012 as well garnered the star of remarkable merit. Three more Captain No Beard books are in the works. Also available, “I Want To Do Yoga Too,” a children’s introduction to yoga.
I recently had the opportunity to ask Carole some questions about this book, including how the story idea came about, as well as what is next for her.  Please enjoy with author interview with author of Can a Princess Be a Firefighter? (available now in print), Carole P. Roman.  And, be sure to read on after the interview for a chance to enter and win a copy of this cute book for kids.  Good luck!
Author Q&A with Carole P. Roman...



o   Tell me about your book. How did you come up with that (story, angle, idea)?

I wrote a little bedtime book for my grandsons who are interested in the night sky. I wanted to write something for my granddaughters and decided I wanted to celebrate the vast opportunities available to them as they grow up. When I was a little girl I was basically given three choices, bookkeeper, nurse, or teacher. I became a teacher but ended up helping my husband build our business. It was then I saw all the different fields open for woman, and realized that a woman could be anything she chooses.

o   How did you get interested in writing this particular genre?  

My sons dared me to write a book and I wrote my first story, Captain No Beard An Imaginary Tale of a Pirate's Life. It won numerous awards and I followed it with nine more in the series. I used my teaching background to write an introduction to culture of elementary school children called If You Were Me and Lived in...  I have 17 countries covered and now have another series by the same name that does time periods for older children.

o   Do you have any favorite authors or favorite books? 

I love Tracey Chevalier, Bernard Cornwall, Phillippa Gregory. Right now I am reading Elizabeth I  by Margaret George. and Hanging Mary by Susan Higginbotham. Nightly I am doing the Harry Potter series with my grandson and loving it. We read for about a half hour over the phone together.

o   What's a typical working day like for you? When and where do you write? Do you set a daily writing goal?  

No goals, I write for pleasure. I work in a family business. I get up at 530 in the morning.Check emails, go to the office. I work my day job but have an assistant who worked for me there regarding all my books. We have a staff meeting, I speak with my managers, then move on to book business. I have over 31 titles now. I also manage my son who is author Michael Phillip Cash. He has written fourteen books and is also an award-winning author and screen-writer.  I coordinate what publicity we are doing. I am home by two, twice a week is yoga, twice a week, lunch with my daughters-in-laws, then dinner with the hubby. A little television, read with my grandchildren, then I write until one in the morning. I write on a lap-top in bed. Sometimes, I will work where ever there is a computer, my study, the office. Noise, interruptions, people talking doesn't bother me. I can work through everything.

o   What is the hardest part of writing for you? 

It is a labor of love, but I find checking for mistakes the hardest part. I never see them, no matter how many times I read it.

o   What’s the best thing about being an author? 

The best thing that happened was just the other day. My grandson, the one who inspired my first book, Captain No Beard, decided to read it to me. Hearing it through his interpretation, reading the words I wrote for him was the most thrilling thing. Also, hearing the any of my books brought pleasure or enjoyment to a parent or child means the world to me. I think each one of them has important themes and information. I love hearing that people enjoyed my messages, or even had a different interpretation.

o   What are you working on now?  

Just finished If You Were Me and Lived in...Elizabethan England. Working with my artist director to format Renaissance Italy and Colonial America. Working with four illustrators on American West, Mayan America, and Viking Europe, as well as If You Were Me and Lived in...Brazil.

o   What advice would you give aspiring writers?  

Don't give up. Write and make sure you pay for good editing service. If you are serious and want this to work, set up a lot of social media to make sure people hear about you. Enter your books in as many contests as you can and give it out to as many bloggers and reviewers as possible.

o   What question have you always wanted to be asked in an interview? How would you answer that question? 

Is it a job or fun? It is pure enjoyment! I love my job! 

And, now for the giveaway..

--GIVEAWAY--


One lucky Inspired by Savannah reader will win a copy of Carole's new release, Can a Princess Be a Firefighter?.  To enter, please complete the entries on the Raffleocopter form below.  Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


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