EReaders Have Taken Over!

I just heard that Amazon is currently selling more eBooks than print books (105 eBooks to 100 print editions). As someone who uses eReaders, I am not surprised at the market penetration. I was surprised that the eBooks number does not include Free eBooks, so with that inclusion they are "selling" even more eBooks. With Father's Day and Graduations around the corner, an eReader would make a great gift. But which one to choose. (The information below is based on my own experiences and the thought process that I went through prior to asking for a Nook Color.)

Why Do I love eBooks?
I love eBooks for the convenience. No heavy books to tote around especially while traveling. Plus, I don't have to find storage for all of these books. An eBook reader also saves my place so no need to use a bookmark. I can change the type size or background color allowing me to read while doing other tasks - folding laundry, washing dishes, since I can make the font larger. I began using my iPod Touch as an eReader over a year ago. I started with the Kindle App and added the Nook app when it was released. When I upgraded from a regular cell phone to an Android phone, I also used the apps on my phone. For Christmas I received a Nook Color. We have also recently purchased an iPad which can be used as an eReader. So I have some familiarity with different eReaders.

Which eReader is Best?
This decision will be highly personal. It will depend on what features are important to you. The features I considered were: free reading resources, device flexibility, screen type, and size.

Reading Material Sources
I want flexibility is where I obtain my reading material. Amazon Kindle only supports a proprietary book format which needs to be obtained from them. The Nook, Sony eReader, and some others will read ePubs including those with Adobe Digital Editions DRM. My local library lends eBooks for free as part of my library card. The eBooks are lent through Overdrive Media. In the fall, these books were only available for Sony Reader and Barnes and Noble Nook/Nook Color. They have since launched apps for iPhone, iPad, and Android smart phones. Overdrive and Amazon are implementing a system to be launched later this year.

Device Flexibility
Some eReaders are just that, eReaders and nothing else. Others, like the iPad are full feature tablet devices. The Nook Color is in between an iPad and an eReader. The iPad has a full range of applications available to it including a web browser, email, calendar, contacts, games, social networking, office systems, and more. The Nook and Nook Color both have a web browser. The Nook Color is built on the Android operating system and has started rolling out applications.

Screen Type
One of the important choices for an eReader is the screen type. Traditional eReaders all sport an eInk screen which is supposed to be the easiest on the eyes. It is much like a book in that you can read it in bright sunlight, but will need a light at night. eInk screens use little power so the devices tend to have a long battery life. eInk screens are monochrome black and white and cannot support color books or magazines. The Nook Color and iPad have a full color backlit LCD screen. The color screen allows for full color web browsing, children's picture books, and magazines. Some people have reported eye strain or headaches with these screens. They have also been linked to difficulty falling asleep after reading on one at night. I do not get eye strain with the backlit LCD. I frequently read at night after my husband is asleep and have not experienced trouble sleeping, often falling asleep while reading. For me, the backlit was an advantage.

Another consideration is a touchscreen or a key pad. I am used to touch screens since I have had an iPod Touch for 3 years and use an Android phone. The keypad also adds non reading size to the device. One disadvantage to the touchscreen is when I am reading with my daughter. I have to be very careful when pointing to words to not turn the page.

Device Size
The dimensions and weight of the device are also factors in the selection of an eReader. The iPad is the largest and heaviest device. It is not as portable as an eReader and I find it a bit heavy for laying in bed. The Nook Color is about the same size as other dedicated eReaders, but is heavier. An Android phone or iPhone is the lightest option, but it is also the smallest.

My Thoughts:
iPad: This is a great device and I love our iPad (we have a first generation bought at a discount after the release of iPad2). It has great flexibility in that it has apps for the most major book sources available (iBooks, Kindle, Nook, Overdrive). There are also many children's picture books available in iBooks, the NookKids app, and as standalone apps.  However, I find it to large to carry with me everywhere and too heavy to read on in bed. The iPad 2 starts at $499 for a 16 GB WiFi only version.

Nook Color: This is my favorite of the eReaders. It has a large variety of children's books available including some Read to Me books that will narrate the book for your child. Nook also has a large assortment of children's chapter books available as the child grows. I am currently reading Magic Treehouse Books with my daughter on the Nook Color. The apps are not as sophisticated as an iPad, but it does have a decent mail program now. It is a reasonable size to carry in my purse (after I upgraded from barely a clutch). When we were in DC, I would bring it on the Metro and read to my daughter while on the trains or waiting for them. I found that a book jacket made the device a little easier to hold because of adding a bit of thickness. I do wish there were a few more apps - Facebook, a Calendar that syncs to Google (that does not require an additional $39.99 application). The Nook Color sells for $249.99.

Nook: My sister has a Nook. She preferred the eInk screen, longer battery life, and lighter weight to the Nook Color. It will not support the Children's Picture Books but does support children's chapter books. If I wanted eInk, I probably would have selected the Nook. The Nook sells for $149.

Kindle: The Kindle was not an option for me because it did not support the library books. However, with that feature coming, I would again consider it as an option. There are a number of free eBooks available on Amazon, but they tend to be the classics, Christian fiction, and erotica. Kindle is available in a WiFi version for $139 ($114 for an ad-supported version). Kindle 3G which supports 3G+WiFi for obtaining books is available for $189. The Kindle DX is also available for $379. It features a 9.7" display and 3G+WiFi.

Sony Reader: I did not seriously consider the Sony Reader since I really liked the backlit LCD screen. However, there are several downsides to the Sony Reader. From what I can see only the Daily Edition includes WiFi connectivity. Otherwise you have to download books on your computer and transfer to the reader. There are not Sony Reader apps for the iPhone or Android Market, so you can only read your books on the Sony Reader. I prefer the flexibility to use my phone if my eReader is not available. Another complaint I have about the Sony Reader is the availability of gift cards. I had to install the Sony Reader app on my laptop in order to purchase my aunt a gift card for her Sony Reader. This is a major inconvenience for friends and family to buy you a gift card. The Sony Reader is available in a Pocket version for $179.99 (5" screen), a Touch Edition for $229.99 (6" screen), and a Daily Edition for $299.99 (7" screen + WiFi+3G).

Smart Phone: As I mentioned, I was reading on my Smart Phone. I always said it was sufficient and I did not want another device. Fast forward 6 months, and I have not only a Nook Color but also an iPad. With my daughter, it is great for us to have multiple devices to share as a family. I do not regret either my Nook Color or my iPad. A Smart Phone is just too small for easy reading. Plus I was using my battery life by reading on the go. However, I like having an eReader app for my phone to use as a backup if I don't have my Nook Color with me.

Disclaimer: I am an Amazon Associate and an affiliate of both Barnes and Noble and Apple iTunes. I receive compensation for sales through links to these sites. I appreciate your support of my blog by shopping through my links.

Game Review: Disney Apples to Apples

My daughter loves games. However we are finding that we are at a cross-roads where games are concerned. She has a lot of games and the preschool games are getting too easy for her. However, she is not ready for the more strategic games. She is able to read, so that opens a few more options too.

For Mother's Day, she really wanted to give me a game we could play together. We had all gone to Target and she was shopping with Daddy when I walked by. He suggested Disney Apples to Apples, but wanted my input since the age says 7+. I looked at the box and thought she would be able to play with help.

I was not familiar with Apples to Apples prior to this, so I had no idea what to expect. There are green cards with a descriptive word on them and red cards with things on them. The goal is to pick the best match for the descriptive word. For example, if the descriptive word was Fast you might select "Race" or "Wolves". In each round, one player is the judge and picks which card was the best match. The goal is to win 4 rounds first. I was a little worried about the judging of who had the best card, but you mix the cards up so the judge does not know who played which card. The game recommends 4-8 players, however we played with 3 and it was fine.

I was surprised at how well my daughter was able to play this game on her own. As we were setting it up, she went through the green apple cards and was able to read most of them. The game was great for her to practice her matching of characteristics. The Disney version also has Green Poison Apple cards which turns the tables so you have to pick the opposite of the descriptive word. She did have trouble when none of her cards matched the descriptor very well. However, she loved being the judge.

When we started we were helping her read the green apple cards when she was the judge. In the second game, we were only helping her if she asked. She picked the card and told us "Smiley" so we all picked something Smiley - a parade, Epcot, and Animal Kingdom. Then, I looked down and noticed the green apple card actually said "Smelly". We continued playing the round as Smiley. After that we checked the cards my daughter was reading.

I recommend the Disney Apples to Apples game for children who are readers through adults. It will help to have some knowledge of Disney - movies, TV, and parks. My daughter can't wait to play again. This is a game that the adults can also have fun playing as opposed to some kids games which are monotonous for adults. Unfortunately, my husband is not a game person, so it will probably wait until we go to Grandma and Grandpa's again. There is also Apples to Apples Junior which the manufacturer recommends as 9 & Up.

Disclaimer: We purchased this game ourselves at full price. All opinions are my own. I am an Amazon Associate and receive compensation for sales through amazon links. I appreciate your support of my blog by shopping through my links.

Mother's Day Frame Craft

Today Michaels has a Mother's Day Frame Craft today from 6-8p. The event is for kids ages 3 and up. With the purchase of a frame, they will provide materials to decorate it for mom. Ready to finish wood frames are on sale this week at 3/$2 (regularly $1). This is a great affordable way to make a gift for Mom. Add a photo of Mom & her favorite kid(s). This is also a great gift for Grandma.

You could potentially opt for a larger frame and place a collage of pictures through the year. I gave my Mom a collage picture of her and my daughter 2  years ago. I think I am going to update it this year.

Kids can also make a Clay Pot Jewelry Box at Michaels on Friday, May 6 from 6-8p.

Clay Pot Jewelry Holder

On Friday, May 6 from 6-8p, Michaels will help kids make a Clay Pot Jewelry Holder for Mom. This Knack event is for kids ages 3 and up. The event is free with the purchase of a Clay Pot.

This looks like a really great gift for Mom or Grandma. I am thinking of taking my daughter to make one of these for my mom.

Kids Can Make Mother's Day Cards Tonight

Today from 6-8p, Michaels will help your kids create a Mother's Day Card. This Knack event is for kids ages 3 and up. After purchasing a flower, the kids will attach it to the card and create the decorations around it.

Even better, than the card, you get to send the kids shopping with Dad to make the card getting some alone time before the big day.

Free Dora the Explorer Episodes - First Day of School and More

Image From iTunes

In the First Day of School episode of Dora the Explorer, Boots and Tico head for their first day of school EVER.

This episode is currently free on iTunes. This will be a great episode to have for your child before they start school in the fall whether they are starting kindergarten at a new school or maybe younger and starting preschool for the first time. Free iTunes episodes are sometimes only free for a limited time, so I recommend "purchasing" the episode now.

Bark, Bark to Play Park, Dora's Jack in the Box, Dora Had a Little Lamb, and ABC Animals are also currently being offered for free.

Bark, Bark to Play Park is about Twins Day at Play Park and Dora will introduce her dog Perrito to his twin he hasn't seen since they were newborn pups.

In Dora's Jack in the Box, she is looking for a gift to cheer up her twin brother and sister who have been sick. She finds a dusty jack in the box on a high shelf at the toy store.

In Dora Had a Little Lamb, Dora and Boots wander through fairy tale land helping Little Lamb find her way back to Mary while also helping the Itsy Bitsy Spider, Humpty Dumpty and Peter Piper.

The animals are missing from the ABC book in ABC Animals. Dora and Boots travel through the book to find the letters.


Disclaimer: I am an iTunes affiliate and receive compensation for sales through iTunes links. I appreciate your support of my blog by shopping through my links. I am not compensated for free item downloads.

Make Your Own Book - A Deal to Get Started

Have you seen Blurb.com? You can design your own book. I love this concept because it goes beyond a standard photo book. You can create a black and white book starting at $2.95 or a color book starting at $12.95.

Image from Blurb.com

You can use their layout software or convert PDFs to make your book. I have digital scrapbook pages from when my daughter was an infant saved as PDFs. This is a great way for me to turn them into a bound book. Blurb books have an advantage over photo books in the way they incorporate text.

Some ideas they suggest are a year in review, a family cookbook, genealogy, and more. With graduations, weddings, Mother's Day, and Father's Day coming up there are plenty of great gift giving occasions coming up.

Today, Groupon is offering a $45 certificate for just $20. The promotional value of the Groupon expires on August 3, 2011. After that, the certificate will revert to $20 (the price you paid) and never expires.

Disclaimer: I am a Groupon affiliate and am compensated for sales through Groupon links. I appreciate your support of my blog by shopping through my links.

Get $35 of Mother's Day Flowers for just $15

Today Living Social is offering a great deal for Mother's Day flowers. For just $15, you get $35 of Mother's Day flowers (redeem 5/3-11/03/11) or for just $12 you can get $30 for post-Mother's Day flowers (redeem 5/10-11/03/11).  After November 3, the certificates will revert to the value you paid for them losing the promotional value.

The certificates are valid on sale items, but not on gift cards. I don't see any restrictions on combining with a coupon, but will not guarantee that you can use a coupon. FTD shipping or service fees apply to orders (currently $20.99 for Mother's Day weekend). You can decrease the service fee by surprising mom early and having it delivered early this week. However, there are some items that ship direct in a gift box and do not have these service fees although Saturday delivery will cost extra.

Disclaimer: I am a LivingSocial Affiliate and am compensated for sales through LivingSocial links. I appreciate your supporting my efforts by shopping through my links.

Barbie a Fairy Secret Coupon

We gave my daughter the Barbie in a Fairy Secret DVD while she was recovering from having her tonsils out. I had purchased it the week it came out and got a great deal at Target. The DVD for $12.99, a second DVD for $5 off (coupon on the DVD), and a free Barbie Ballerina. I selected Barbie and the 12 Dancing Princesses as her second DVD. I paid $14.99 for the 2 movies and the doll. I split the items up giving her the ballerina after her ballet recital, A Fairy Secret while she was recovering, and the 12 Dancing Princess for Easter.

Coupons.com has a coupon to save $5 on the Fairy Secret DVD. Target lists the price for the DVD as $14.99 on their website making the final cost $9.99.

In this movie, Barbie and her friends become fairies and must rescue Ken who has been kidnapped by the queen fairy who has been bewitched to become obsessed with him.

Her favorite Barbie movies remain Barbie and a Fashion Fairytale and Three Musketeers.

So far she has only watched the movie once - a few hours after being released from the hospital when she was still affected by the anesthesia. We will have to watch it again when she isn't under the weather to see if she likes this one.

Disclaimer: I am an Amazon Associate and am compensated for sales through their links. I am a Coupons.com Brandcaster and receive compensation for coupons printed and used through my links. I appreciate your linking through my site to support my efforts on this blog.

Are you an Easter Bunny Fur-ist?

When it comes to a bunny are you a fur-ist? Do you care whether the Easter Bunny your child visits is white, brown, or some other color?

I never really gave it a thought. Growing up, I remember mostly white bunnies from the pictures. When my daughter was born, I brought her to the nearest mall and sat her on the bunny's lap without thinking about it. It was a white bunny. In my area, I have only seen white bunnies at the malls, egg hunts, and other community events.

Evidently in the area I used to live, most of the bunnies are brown. When I posted my daughter's Easter bunny picture on Facebook, I get comments on how nice the bunny looks compared to the ones they have. Every year my sister in law goes in search of the elusive white bunny to get her daughters' pictures taken.

I will say I have seen some strange white bunnies in my time. So, I'm not willing to say it is all about the bunny's fur color since I have not seen a picture. In the early 80s, there was a seriously deranged looking bunny at a park event we went to. We joke about it every time we see the picture. But in this day and age, I see no reason that a bunny at a high end regional mall should be described as looking like a rat with big ears regardless of its color. I was not able to find a picture of this

As long as the bunny looks normal, I'm not bothered by the fur color. I found this site which has Easter Bunny costumes for sale and I will say I think in general nicest bunnies are the white ones, but not because of the color. I think the gray bunny is as nice as the white bunny version. I like the pink bunny costume compared to the white one below it. Of the brown and white bunnies pictured together, I prefer the white mainly because of the ears and the white fabric is more forgiving in showing the bunch lines. The last bunny is tan and not a bad color, but I just can't get past the eyes, or should I say eye lashes.

As far as I'm concerned, the overall aesthetics of the bunny are more important to me than the color of the fur.

Now, let it be said that I am a bunny fur-ist in other bunny incarnations:

• Chocolate bunnies...must be chocolate, preferably milk (or dark for my husband). No white chocolate.
• Marshmallow Bunnies...I'm still a chocolate girl here, as in chocolate covered marshmallows. I'm not usually a Peeps fan, but the new chocolate covered ones might make me a convert. My daughter prefers her marshmallow bunnies as purple peeps. Although if I'd share a chocolate covered one she might change her mind.
• Cake Bunny...I'd go all chocolate, but we usually do a white face with chocolate ears and a chocolate bow tie (two cake circles, one as the face, one with ears shaped from opposite sides and the remaining center as a bow tie).
• Decorative Bunnies...I'm flexible here. I have white, chocolate colored, light brown, and we even have pink bunnies.

So what are your thoughts? Is it wrong to be a Fur-ist to prefer a white Easter Bunny? Where do you stand on the edible bunnies?

The Knack Mother's Day Make It Take It

On Saturday April 30 from 10a-noon, Michaels is helping kids make a gift for mom. They will be providing supplies to decorate a t-shirt or apron (purchase required). This is recommended for ages 3 and up.

We decorated t-shirts for Halloween this year and had a great time doing the decoration. This event would make a great dad/kid activity to make something for Mom for Mother's Day (maybe while picking up other gifts too).

Picaboo Photo Products Deals

As parents we probably have millions of pictures of our children floating around and the question is always what to do with them. With Picaboo you can take your digital photographs and turn them into photo books, calendars, cards, and more.

Today, Groupon is offering a $100 certificate to Picaboo for just $35. This certificate is only valid on photo books, calendars, and cards. It can also be applied to shipping and taxes. They have photo books that start at $9.99 and run up to $349.99 (wedding album comparable).

The certificate must be purchased by the end of the day Saturday, April 23. It can be redeemed beginning Monday, April 25 and must be redeemed by October 20, 2011.

My sister made my mom a year in photos album for Christmas and it was great. I am thinking I need to compile all of my daughters pictures and make one for each year. Albums are also great to celebrate vacations or milestone events. I also made a calendar this year for my daughter and she loves it. We also use photo cards for Christmas, but have also sent them for other holidays to a few people. With Picaboo you can make individual cards starting at $1.29

Disclaimer: I am a Groupon affiliate and receive compensation for sales through links on my blog. I appreciate your supporting my efforts on this blog by shopping through my links.

Michaels Knack Easter Cards

On Saturday, April 23 from 10a-noon Michaels Stores will have a Knack FREE Make It Take It Easter Card event. You will learn to make Easter stamps from foam. This event is designed for children ages 3 and up.

We have attended many Knack events at Michaels and have enjoyed many of them. This looks like fun, but might be better for older preschoolers.

Rio - A Fun Family Movie

Disclaimer: I am an Amazon Associate and iTunes Affiliate. I am compensated for sales through links to those sites. My opinions are not in any way affected by my relationships with the vendors.

Update 4/11/14: Rio 2 has been released today. To prepare for the film, Amazon has great prices on Rio. Rio (Blu-ray/ DVD Combo + Digital Copy) and Rio (DVD) is $8.

After hearing about Angry Birds for a few months, back in January I finally installed Angry Birds on my  Android phone. My daughter discovered my playing it and fell in love. So I bought it for her iPod Touch. Well, she quickly became an Angry Birds addict, sometimes she would wake me up in the morning talking about her Angry Birds dream or asking to play.

Needless to say, we were very excited when we heard about the Angry Birds movie. The anticipation built when the Angry Birds Rio game was introduced. She kept asking me when it was coming out and if it would be before she was getting her tonsils out. Fortunately the movie came out the weekend before she got her tonsils out, so we got to see it on opening Saturday.

We made a great movie time choice, 2:20p, since our theater had some special events in conjunction with the Rio release. They had tropical birds from a bird sanctuary there when we arrived. For a donation, you would receive a tail feather from one of the birds. I am hoping that they had fallen out and were not plucked. They were also doing face painting and had coloring sheets available. We had not known of these special events so we did not arrive early enough to participate. After our movie, the birds were gone, but they were still face painting, so my daughter was thrilled to get the Rio logo painted on her cheek.

We really enjoyed the movie. We saw the 3D version which was nice, but I don't think it was necessary. The main character in the movie is Blu, a rare blue macaw who has been living in Minnesota as pet of Linda after being captured as a baby in the rain forest. We learn that there is only one other blue macaw, Jewel, and that Linda must accompany Blu to Rio de Janeiro so that Blu and Jewel can be bred. There is an immediate conflict between domesticated Blu who cannot fly and Jewel who has lived in the wild and wishes to return to the wild. The story follows Blu and Jewel as they are repeatedly captured and escape. There is also a side story with Linda and Tulio from the bird sanctuary.

I was really impressed with the vocal performances, especially Jesse Eisenberg as Blu. There were frequent laughs in the movie. It was able to hold the attention of all three of us. I was a little concerned when they talked about breeding Blu and Jewel whether it would be appropriate for a 5 year old, but I did not find it inappropriate.

My daughter said that she liked this movie a lot better than Hop which she had seen the previous weekend with my parents.

We will definitely be purchasing this movie when it comes out on DVD. We may even go see it again as my husband and father were unable to join us.

Go Crazy with Pizza Toppings - Just $8

From Groupon.com

What is your favorite topping combination? I like onions, peppers, sausage, pepperoni, diced tomatoes, bacon and more. I am also a big fan of chicken - unfortunately my husband only likes chicken as barbecue chicken. Just keep off the mushrooms and the anchovies.

Today Groupon is running a national deal for Domino's Pizza. For just $8, you can get a large Domino's pizza with up to 10 toppings. I love that the toppings are practically unlimited. While I like lots of veggies on my pizza, I hate paying for each extra topping. So this deal is perfect.

So what combination are you going for? What toppings will you avoid?

The Groupon must be purchased by midnight on April 20. It is valid until May 19. You must place your order online for in store pickup (no phone orders or delivery).  The certificate is valid at all continental US locations (not valid in Alaska, Hawaii, or outside the US). You may purchase up to 3 certificates. As with all Groupons, you cannot redeem it until the day after the certificate expires.



I have purchased Groupons several time in the past, including some of the national deals. I have never had any problem redeeming my Groupons.

Disclaimer: I am a Groupon Affiliate and am compensated for sales through links to their site. These sales help support my efforts on the blog. I appreciate your support by shopping through my links.

FREE Reusable Bag from the Disney Store

On Earth Day, Friday, April 22, the Disney Store will be giving away reusable shopping bags to customers who bring in 5 plastic bags to recycle.

Note, the event will be on Saturday, April 23 in Canada. It is also not valid at Outlet stores. There is a limit of one bag per person and while supplies last.

Toys R Us 3D Easter Adventure - Sat April 16 from noon-2p

Join Toys R Us on Saturday, April 16 from noon-2p for 3D Easter Adventure featuring Crayola. They will have fun activities and giveaways. All giveaways are while supplies last and there is a limit of one per child.

I recommend attending the event early. When we attended their Christmas event which included cookies to decorate, they had run out of cookies 30 minutes into a 3 hour event. I hope they have learned from this and ordered a larger supply of materials.

Earth Day Tote Decoration

On Saturday, April 16, Michaels Stores will be celebrating Earth Day with Reusable Tote Decorating. The event will run from 10a-noon, or while supplies last.

From Michaels.com

Purchase a tote of your choice, and they will provide the materials to decorate it.

We love the crafts at Michaels. Decorating T-Shirts for Halloween and Stockings for Christmas were probably two of our favorite crafts.

Target FREE Rusable Shopping bag

On Sunday, April 17 Target stores are giving away a free reusable shopping bag to 1 million customers nationwide. The bag is not their standard bag, it looks like a messenger bag. Their website states that many stores ran out in a few hours last year, so I would plan to be there early. The bags are distributed with a purchase.



Make sure to bring the bag every time you shop at Target since they give a 5 cent rebate for each bag you reuse. (Sometimes you have to remind the cashier). I love reusable bags. Not only are they environmentally friendly, they hold more and are easier to carry than plastic bags. My only problem is remembering to return them to my car and bring them into the store. The 5 cent incentive definitely helps me remember to bring my bags.


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Free Cone Day!

Spring is here and it is time for Ice Cream! (Of course here the temperature has dropped about 20 degrees since Sunday.)

Today, April 12 is Ben & Jerry's Free Cone Day. From noon-8p today, they will be giving away a free cone to everyone who comes in. Every year Ben & Jerry's has Free Cone Day to celebrate their anniversary (33 years).

This year they have several new flavors: Late Night Snack (inspired by Jimmy Fallon), Bonnaroo Buzz, Stephen Colbert's AmeriCone Dream, and ClusterFluff. You can find more information and descriptions of the new flavors on their site.

The only Ben & Jerry's near me is right next to a university campus, so I am guessing it will be a total mob scene. Check out Ben & Jerry's website for locations near you.

Laptop Withdrawl

I have predominately used a laptop for at least the last 10 years. I was a hold out on financial stuff, using my desktop until it died nearly 2 years ago. At that point I replaced it with a MacBook Pro which I absolutely love now.

My CD drive has been finicky for awhile, but has recently stopped working. Fortunately it is still covered under warranty so Apple is fixing it for free. BUT, they need to take it for a week. I dropped it off today.

Last month, we purchased a first gen iPad on discount, so I am using the iPad in place of the laptop for the next week.

One of my concerns was blogging. Well, I have found Blog Press and am loving it. It was super easy to setup my multiple Blogger blogs. You can work in an offline mode to upload later. You can also save drafts. You can add HTML, pictures, links, and more.

We are going out of town this week and another concern was uploading pictures from my camera. Apple sells a camera connector for the iPad. I am so glad that I mentioned this as a disappointment to the tech at the store.

My husband was just saying that he sees tablets like the iPad eventually replacing laptops. This week will be my test of how well the iPad replaces a laptop.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Disclaimer: I am an iTunes Affiliate and receive compensation for sales through iTunes links. I appreciate your support of my site by shopping through my links.

A cute Easter Chick Craft

On Tuesday, April 5 from 10a-noon, Michaels stores are having a free Make It, Take It Knack Family Craft.




The event is designed for kids age 3&up. It is a free event. We are on spring break this week, so the timing is perfect.

These chicks look really cute. My daughter will love this craft. We did a similar decoration at a birthday party last spring making different types of animals.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:Michaels Stores

Easter Egg Make It, Take It

On Saturday, April 2 from 10a-noon, Michaels Stores will have a Knack Family Event: Easter Egg Make It, Take It. These eggs look adorable. The event requires the purchase of a 7" craft egg ($5). The event is designed for ages 3 and up.

We have attended many of The Knack events at our local store. I have found that the events that require an initial purchase are better projects and often inspire me to replicate the project at home.

My Little States Expert

For Christmas, my daughter received two US States puzzles and quickly mastered them. We had one for our house and one for my parents house. She would do the puzzle at least once a day for most of January or February. She got to the point that she could identify a state if we held the piece up to her backwards so she couldn't see the words and pictures.

Since she has an iPod Touch, I went searching for a states app for her. I found the free app GeoMaster - US States. This state shows a map of the contiguous 48 states and gives you a capital and state name and you have to tap the corresponding state (once to tap the general area and once to tap the exact state). It says the capital and state aloud and displays them. She quickly mastered this application often reeling off 40+ states correct in succession. While I knew the 50 capitals once upon a time, I have to admit that she has helped me to remember them.


With the release of the iPad2, we decided to buy a discounted first generation iPad. While GeoMaster - US States will run on the iPad, she had already mastered that application and it was running at lower resolution in the large screen size. So, I started searching for a different application. I decided to give Stack the States a try. There is a lite version, but I decided to buy the full version because it includes extra state games. Stack the States is also nice in that it is both an iPad and in iPhone application.

My daughter loves Stack the States. The application will give you a multiple choice question providing 4 possible states. The questions include identifying a state by name, matching a state to its abbreviation, capital, landmark, nickname, bordering state or country, or "large" city. After answering the question right, you will be given a state to add to your stack. Once you stack your states to the line, you will be rewarded with a state for your collection. As you collect more states you will unlock three additional games. Also, with time, your line will rise higher making it harder to earn your states.

The application does require reading since it does not read the questions aloud. My daughter does need a little help since she is still a beginning reader, but she is getting more confident in her reading on this application. Also, I talk her through some of the questions when she does not know the answer.

My daughter has learned so much about the states playing this game. I even learn something about some lesser know state parks, state nicknames, or some of the smaller cities. She is also learning about stacking the states to keep them from toppling learning a little physics.

My only complaint about the game is that some of the "major cities" are not that major. For example, the other day we were asked what state Columbus was in. My daughter and I both thought it was easy - Ohio. But, Ohio was not one of the choices. We ended up having to guess. I don't remember which state it was in. There have also been a few other small cities that I only knew because of living in the area.

With her fascination with the states, I have told my husband we are going to need quite the travel budget to keep her satisfied. She has already been to 13 states at age 5 and will be adding one more shortly.

Disclaimer: I am an iTunes Affiliate through LinkShare and am compensated for sales through my links. I appreciate your supporting my blog by shopping through my links. My opinions are my own and are not influenced by my affiliate status.

A Tangled Mess at Target

Let me start by saying that I am a big fan of Target and shop there way too much. On Monday, I blogged about their great deal on the Tangled 4 Disc Set. It was a great deal, the only problem was they only had extremely limited quantities of this product.

I arrived at my local Target on release day, Tuesday, March 29 at 2:15p. We walked past the registers where there was an end cap with about 5 rows - 4 of the DVD and 1 of the BluRay/DVD Combo Pack and no slots for the 4 Disc Combo Pack. So we headed back to the regular move section. We found only one slot for the 4 Disc Combo Pack and only 1 copy of the movie in that slot. I quickly put the movie in my cart. Yes, I got the LAST 4 Disc Package at 2:19p. How do I know the time, while my daughter perused the Angry Birds Rio books on the next display I posted my incredulity to my personal Facebook Page.

We were also picking up a prescription at Target that afternoon, so I am glad I went to get the movie first since a woman walked up a minute after I took the last copy.

That evening my sister tried the Target on the other side of town and they were also sold out of not just the 4 disc but also the 2 disc. This morning, one of my readers told me that she did not get a copy and that Target told her they only had 7 copies (SEVEN!!!!). I know that the ad says there were only limited quantities available, but this seems ridiculously low to me. Almost as if they are advertising it to get you in the store and then sell you one of the other copies which while cheaper did not have as large of a discount.

Personally, I would like to give Target the benefit of the doubt and assume that they were clueless as to which version would be in high demand. Maybe they based the order on typical sales of 3D Blu Rays which probably do not typically sell in large numbers. I know I have no intention of ever getting a 3D TV and a 3D Blu Ray player, so I would not buy a 3D BluRay Movie. But, we do have digital devices and this was the only version of the movie that came with a digital copy. For me, it was well worth a limited price increase for the digital copy so my daughter could watch it on her iPod or our iPad. But the kicker with this, is that the price for the 4 Disc worked out to the same as the 2 Disc since Target was selling the 4 Disc for only $5 more than the 2 Disc, but the Disney Movie Rewards $5 coupon was only valid on the 4 Disc. At the same price, I am buying the 4 Disc version even if I had no need of the 3D or the digital in case I wanted them in the future. Actually, for the $4 upgrade from the DVD price ($15.99), I would buy the 4 Disc for both the digital copy and the BluRay even if I didn't have a BluRay player.

If you did not get a copy at Target, what are your options?

• Meijer is also offering the 4 Disc for $24.99 and you can use the $5 Disney Movie Rewards Coupon. The movie is supposed to come with a Favorite Moments doll, however the dolls were out of stock when my sister was there last night.
• WalMart is advertising a $24.96 price but that seems to be for the 2 Disc.
• Amazon still has the 4 Disc for $24.99 and the 2 Disc for $19.99, but you can't use the coupon
• Best Buy has the 4 Disc advertised for $24.99 after the $5 Disney Movie Rewards Coupon.

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with Target, Meijer, WalMart, Disney Movie Rewards, or Best Buy. I am an Amazon affiliate and am compensated for sales through Amazon links.

Best Deal on Tangled?

As most of you with little girls probably know, Disney's Tangled is being released on DVD tomorrow, March 29.

So if you want to purchase it, who has the best price? Of course, it isn't quite that simple. The movie is being sold in 3 different versions: DVD, 2 Disc BluRay/DVD Combo, 4 Disc Blu-Ray 3D/BluRay/DVD/Digital Copy). So which copy is right for you?

For me, it all comes down to a combination of my wants and price. We have a BluRay player, so a BluRay/DVD combo is my minimum situation. I really wanted the digital copy since my daughter has her own iPod Touch and we just got a family iPad. However, I was torn on paying an additional $10 on the 4-disc upgrade. The DVD lists for $29.99, the 2-Disc Combo for $39.99, and the 4-Disc Combo for $49.99. Of course, the week of release, you can usually find a great deal, and this is no exception.

Fortunately for me, Target and Disney Movie Rewards are providing the right combination for me. Target is selling the 4 disc combo pack for $24.99 and Disney Movie Rewards is offering a $5 coupon for the 4 Disc Combo which is good at any store bringing the total to $19.99 (Verify the Target price in your local ad on the Target Web Page). This is the same price as they are offering the 2 Disc Combo Pack for. Target has the DVD alone for $15.99. Even if we did not have a BluRay player, I would be buying the 4 disc combo pack at this price for the digital copy. Target is also offering a free Tangled Golden Book with the purchase of either BluRay of Tangled. They are also offering a $10 gift card if you purchase both a Tangled Combo Pack and either Bambi, Beauty and the Beast, or Snow White Combo Pack for $29.99. However, the $10 gift card offer cannot be combined with the $5 coupon.

Amazon has matched the Target price of $24.99 for the 4-disc package, but you will not be able to use the $5 Disney Movie Rewards coupon on line. Amazon has the 2 disc for $19.99 or the DVD alone for $14.99. However, they are offering a $10 credit with the combined purchase with select copies of Beauty and the Beast, Tinkerbell and the Great Fairy Rescue, or Fantasia/Fantasia 2000. So if you also want one of those films, this may be a good option.

Best Buy is advertising the 4 disc Combo Pack for $24.99, but in the fine print it indicates that the price is after the $5 Disney Coupon.

So, I am heading to Target tomorrow. Where have you found a good deal?

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with Target or Disney Movie Rewards. I am an Amazon affiliate and am compensated for sales through Amazon links.

Great Service through Social Media - Thanks Comcast

I would like to send Kudos out to Comcast for monitoring Twitter for problems with their service. This morning around 9:40a, my home internet dropped. By 10:25a it hadn't come back, so I rebooted my modem. Still no luck, so I used my phone to post a message to Twitter asking if any others in my area were having problems. Within an hour, I had a reply from @ComcastMelissa asking what the problem was and to help. By sending her my telephone number, she was able to reset my modem and tell me to power my router on and off. I tried it and it worked!

I love this service because I really did not have 20 minutes to call Comcast and go through diagnosing the problem. I was able to send my messages between running to the post office, making my daughter & I lunch, taking my daughter to school, and getting dinner in the crockpot. I never took more than 2 or 3 minutes at a time to test something or send a message. Sure a phone call might have resolved the problem sooner, but I would have needed a bigger chunk of time.

This is not the only time I've gotten help from a company by posting on Twitter, but a few factors made today's experience notable for me. I also recently switched back to Comcast for internet after a frustrating year with AT&T DSL where my connection would drop for a few seconds maybe 8 times a day, every day and they were never able to resolve the problem. It was also particularly convenient today as I was able to handle this among the myriad of other things I am working on.

Relaunching the Blog

I'm relaunching this blog after months of neglect. The last few months I have been posting all of my information on my local blog even though much of it is valid for parents across the country.

This blog will be the destination for

• national events (such as at Toys R Us, Borders, and Michaels) 
• national deals
• movie reviews
• book and product reviews
• party ideas
• and more.

Check back tomorrow for more posts.