A Mama's Two Cents Worth...While They Are Napping

A 500+ Fan Celebration for my shop, Little PINK Thread, on Facebook

2012-02-16T02:07:00.002-05:00

Well, it took a while but my shop on Facebook finally reached 500 fans...Thank you!!! In honour of this milestone I will be hosting a Fan Appreciation Extravaganza!!!! I hope all of my followers of the blog will come over and join me in the celebration. Over the next 10 days, the Fan Extravaganza will run on the Little PINK Thread's page. All rules to the giveaway can be found by clicking on the picture below...it will take you directly to the giveaway! Please show my sponsors some love and thank them for being so kind, who knows you might be a winner of a wonderful prize from them.

Here is a list of some of my sponsors (linked to their shops or fan pages on Facebook) so you can check them out. They are really great crafters and I consider them an important part of why I have a renewed love for crafting.

Snappy Tots (Website)
Kristine's Lil Loves (Facebook Fan Page)
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun!!! (Facebook Fan Page)
Kidz At Heart Krochet (Facebook Fan Page)
Everlaughter (Etsy Store)
Khy's Closet (Facebook Fan Page)
Jewels' Forever Hooked Designs (Ravelry Shop)
Busy Mom Designs (Etsy store)
Speckled Frog Crochet (website)
2 Cute Crochet (Facebook Fan Page)
Magically Hooked (Facebook Fan Page)
Crochet My Love Design (Facebook Fan Page)
Colleen Hoke Photography (Facebook Fan Page)
Tricity Hoke's Creations (Facebook Fan Page)
RAKJ Patterns
Hats and More by Jackie (Facebook Fan Page)
The Fancy Hooker (Facebook Fan Page)
and of course Little PINK Thread (Facebook Fan Page)

Just a few highlights of items to be won: One Of A Kind hats ready to ship, patterns for hats galore, patterns for appliques, and much much more...

Here is a glimpse of some items in the giveaway!!!

Reasy to Ship Item up for grabs

Thanks to all theses lovely crafters and crocheters for their time and items they so graciously donated to help me celebrate.

I will be doing mini features on these wonderful ladies over the next few weeks, so please come back and check out the posts... some offer freebies and have blogs of their own. You never know what kind of things you may be looking for and find it in a blog post out here on the web.

Please if you choose to enter the Little Pink Thread Fan Appreciation Giveaway and are not already a follower of my blog, I would love to have you follow me.

Also please do not just "LIKE" the sponsors to win a giveaway, they work very hard at what they do, be a long time "LIKER" of them, you won't regret it!

More Crochet Printable Freebies

2012-02-01T10:49:00.000-05:00

I thought I would add a few more crochet themed printables for you...

I hope you enjoy them!

Crochet inspired Printable to all my fellow crocheters

2012-01-28T19:51:00.003-05:00

Here is a crochet inspired printable for all my crochet crafters....I hope you enjoy it....

Hope you enjoy it!!!!

Welcome 2012!!!

2012-01-10T19:52:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year Everyone!!!

I am back and I will be posting a few new things this week, some book reviews and I am going to start a new feature that will be every month that will pass on to you a crochet pattern or knit pattern or even a craft tutorial link to make you have 12 or more monthly activities you can do to make 2012 a Craft-amungous Year to remember!!!!
So stay tuned as I begin to feature some of my favourite Pinterest pins...I am now on Pinterest so if you wanna follow me I am "mamas2centswrth"...if you aren't on Pinterest or don't know what it is yet...here is the low down on it. Pinterest is a site that gives you a place to store all the things that you like and find, instead of bookmarking on you computer and never remembering what they are...you can make your out boards that have various different topics that interest you. So please check it out and if you wanna join and need an invite just comment below with your email and I will send you an invite.
Here are some of my board topics....crafts I have made, DIYs I like, Food, and things that are my style.

I hope that you will stop by and follow me and come back to the blog this week to see the postings.

Thanks for reading,

Teacher Gifts--- Crochet Pattern Update

2011-12-24T01:29:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to show you what I made for my daughter JK teacher as a Christmas gift....

Little Pink Thread's Bulky Neckwrap

Another view

I tried to use a pattern I had but it wasn't turning out how I liked it and after frogging the entire thing, I decided to go with the flow and create a one-of-a-kind. So I created the neckwrap off the top of my head and I am proud of how it turned out! I ~~posted the patttern on my Facebook page,~~ Little Pink Thread, ~~in the "Notes" section...BUT only until December 31st.~~..so if you want ~~to try~~ it for yourself please drop me a line at littlepinkthread(at)rogers(dot)com or come by the Facebook page and check out the my listing for the pattern at a very reasonable price if you want it!!!
I used Bernat's Roving yarn, it has 109 yds in a skein. The colour is PLUM. I love the yarn for its super bulkiness and soft feel. The pattern reminds me a lot of a cardigan with the rolled down collar.

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

Lovable Labels Holiday Giveaway Winner and What's been goin' on here!

2011-12-22T01:04:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone....
Well, it is a busy one around my home as we ready for the big guy in red to make a stop here. I don't know about anyone else's house but my little ones are not heeding the warnings of ending up in the "Naughty" list for their behaviour...it seems that Princess B has grown into an attitude full of sass back, while Monkey has become a somewhat of a copycat. Even our elf, Little Gene, watching over them doesn't hinder their performance. One night about a week ago, I was trying to get the tree branches opened up so I could decorate, which took 4 days by the way to do, and the kids we very silent in the family room with Treehouse on. Mommy thinking Monkey fell asleep and Princess was watching Dora...when Mr. came in and walked into the family room to find the two of them behind the sofa playing in the decorative sand that was up on the mantel. Well it was EVERYwhere... let's just say time out was handed out to them, and privileges revoked for both for 24 hours of being able to watch their favourite Treehouse program. All under Little Genes watchful eye...the next morning he remained in his hiding spot to our dismay...and I later found out he was touched...losing his ability to report to Santa for 24 hrs...very upsetting to the kids and Princess apologized to Little Gene on their behalf. The following morning they woke to a letter from Little Gene telling them Santa was watching and how important it was to behave.

Little Gene's first night the toys held a good ole fashion
maritime kitchen party for him, look at all who came.

He brought the kids new Christmas books

I have been busy with orders in the shop for hats as well as the kids have both been sick and the Mr. had a really bad case of the "pink-eye" (so bad he tool off a week of work and it affected both eyes)... Now working on Christmas gifts for teachers and family...due to cost of shipping we went with gift card this year.... Also I got a new niece for Christmas too...my baby sister had her baby 11 days overdue. Miss Eleanor Marie-Helene, or "Elea", arrived on December 8th, weighing in at 9 lb. 2 oz. (their first babe).

Before I forget and ramble on here is the name of the winner of the Lovable Labels Giveaway as picked by random.org...#1

and #1 is Ms. Cindy Keery

Cindy, congratulations on being chosen and I will be emailing you shortly to let you know please reply with 24 hours so I can get you in touch with the wonderful people over at Lovable Labels.

Thank you to Lovable Labels for the giveaway!

P.S. I will be taking a break until the new year to enjoy family, will be back with loads of book reviews and a couple fun tutorials and crafts for you all plus some learning printables for you too.

Please have a wonderful holiday, no matter what you celebrate! Have a safe and healthy 2012! I really wanna thank you all for reading my little blog and hope you will continue to do so in the new year!

CLOSED---Lovable Labels Holiday Gift Seals and Holiday Return Address Labels Review and Giveaway-EXTENDED 'til Dec.20th

2011-12-05T22:20:00.000-05:00

Happy Holidays to all of you!
I was given the chance to review some more of Lovable Labels products in time for the holidays. If you haven't heard of Lovable Labels then here is a little tidbit about them.

Who are Lovable Label?
In 2003, Lovable Labels became the result of one mom's need to keep track of her child's stuff when in daycare. This mom saw the necessity of labelling belongs when in this setting and branched into labels for all need of parents' when sending their children into the world where things disappear, school, daycare and extracurricular activities and the like. Recognizing the need for personalized labels that are tough, durable and could stand the ultimate tests of everyday use and time. They continue to strive to develop inovative and useful products, many of which have came from customer feedback and suggestions from parents just like you!
What are Lovable Labels?
Lovable Labesl specializes in durable tags and labels that are personalized to the child. They have developed the best quality labels that are not only durable but beautiful too! Their labels are waterproof, dishwasher and microwave safe, washer and dryer safe, sun safe, bleach safe, sunscreen safe, and temperature safe. Lovable Labels has you covered from their shoe labels to multipurpose labels and clothing labels.
Why Lovable Labels?
Lovable Labels are needed because kids lose stuff! No matter where they go they always misplace their things and some never make it home. Lovable Labels to the rescue! With durable, affordable and unique designs, their labels have got you covered. Lovable Labels also help save you money by not having to keep replacing your child's belonging because they come home with them!

So in the spirit of the Holidays, Lovable Labels offered me the chance to review their Gift Seals and Return Address Labels. We chose this design called "A Green Christmas". Other styles can be found by click the picture below...really it was hard to choose but because I am a huge Rudolph the Red-nose Reindeer fan it was this one by a landslide...

You can definitely get into the festive season with these Holiday inspired Gift Seals and Holiday Return Address Labels! There are six great designs to choose from with very cute names, like "Starry Nights", "Winter Wishes" and "Jingle all the Red". These self sealing gift seals with matching address return labels will be making a stylish statement when used to decorate my envelopes and gifts this year!
Each pack contains 60 Gift Seals and 90 Address Labels.
Dimensions (Address Labels): 6.5 cm x 3.75 cm (2½" x 1½")
Dimensions (Gift Seals): Diam. 2"
With a Price tag of $21.95 CDN
I am totally in awe of the quality of the labels. This is how they arrived....

Isn't it beautiful packaging???

I found the labels inside like this....

The labels and seals are very vibrant in colours and cute! They are a good size label and seal as well. What a great way to show you Christmas Spirit when sending out you cards this year! I can't wait to finish my cards and drop them in the post and then wait to hear what my family thought of them!!!!
Thanks to Lovable Labels for the chance to try out and review their latest addition to their arsenal of already stunning labels, just in time for the Holidays season!

So here is the best thing about blogging....Lovable Labels has offered one reader of AM2CW, their own Holiday Gift Seal and Holiday Return Address Label set (winners choice of one of the six designs)!!!!!
Here is the details on how to get in on a chance to win your own Holiday Seals and Return Address Labels from Lovable Labels ($21.95 value)
Mandatory entries: (please leave a separate comment for each entry as well as email address if one is not attached to your profile or you are entering the contest under the "anonymous" alias)
1. Must follow AM2CW on GFC to be eligible! and Answer this question: What is the name of Rudolph's crush in the movie "Rudolph the Red-Nose Reindeer"? (2 entries)
2. Two choices here for this mandatory entry:

a. Follow Lovable Labels on Twitter (@mylovablelables) and leave them a tweet telling the AM2CW sent you [2 entries]

b. Like Lovable Labels-Headquaters on Facebook and tell them AM2CW sent you [2 entries]

3. Follow AM2CW on Facebook and Twitter (links to the right) [2 entries for each]

Bonus entries:
4. Mention this giveaway on your blog, Facebook, twitter and leave the link to you blog or facebook status or you social media handle (name) {2 entries for each]

The Giveaway will run until December 15 20th

Winner will be announced by December 16 21st!

Please note: The winner will have 48 hours to contact me once you receive an email from me telling you the great news! Please respond within 48 hours or another winner will be chosen.

Winner will be chosen via random.org.

Must be 18 years of age to be eligible.

Open to Canada and US residences.

Thank you very much to Lovable Labels for this review and giveaway!

**Disclosure**The Product in this review was provided to me free of cost for the purpose of conducting this review. All opinions expressed in this review are that of my own and are not influences by monetary compensation.

Craftaholics Anonymous's Christmas Gift Exchange 2011!

2011-12-05T21:00:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone,
I decided this year to participate in the Christmas Gift Exchange over at Craftaholics Anonymous. Linda does this twice a year and I missed out on the Summer one so I signed up for the holiday version.

I received my partner who was Cindy over at Creating at Home, a DIY blog about baking, cooking, and crafty stuff. She is a fellow Canadian from the West Coast.
Here are some of her projects...

cute, eh?

WOW!!!

So today I received my gift from her and feeling like a little kid on Christmas morning I almost tore into it with taking a picture of it!!! I love receiving things in the mail....

This is what I found upon opening the package...

Beautifully wrapped

Lovely note and Card (her daughter made)

100% silk handbag Cindy made me!!!
Already claimed by Princess B!

Thank you soo much Cindy for a lovely gift...I hope I have gained a friend I know I have gained a new craft blog to follow!!!!

I will post tomorrow or check out Cindy's blog to see what she received from me!!!

The next Handmade Exchange is slated to next year so if you have a chance sign up!!!

Read-to-Me-Mama- Mondays #5

2011-12-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

In this edition of R2MM Mondays, we were able to review a series of books by Nicholas Oldland (author /illlustrator) of the three titles we received.

Big Bear Hug,

4-color • 8 x 8 • 32 pages,

Ages: 3 to 7,

Grades: Pres

chool to 2,

Hardcover Jacket, ISBN:978-1-55453-464-7, $16.95 CAD

CURRICULUM CONNECTIONS

Science & Technology

Life Science
habitats
ecosystem
READING LEVELS
Fountas & Pinnell I
Grade Level 1/2
Reading Recovery15-16
Accelerated ReaderLG 2.5
About the book:
Bear is a hugger...yes a huge bear is wandering through the forest and he's hugging everything he sees! A beaver? And a moose? And a bird? And a tree?Welcome to the world of Big Bear Hug, a contemporary fable about a bear who has an appetite for hugging everything in sight - even creatures that bears have been known to eat. One day, the benevolent bear meets up with a human. This human proceeds to do something the bear cannot understand: he raises his axe and begins to cut down a tree. Suddenly the bear doesn't feel like hugging anymore and must make a difficult decision on how to stop this destruction in his forest. The environmental message of Big Bear Hug is both funny and powerful, while simple enough to engage very young children and show them the awesome power of a hug.
My Review: I love the premise behind this story...of which there are many. First, the bear hugs everything he sees...even things he has been known to eat. Second, when faced with a decision, bear realizes he must take stand and make hi point known to the human. And third, the environment message underlying that leads you to ask "what would the animals do if they took a stand on the harvesting of trees?" makes you wonder if all humans in the forest would meet the same demise as this one did???? I love the things that come into my adult brain when I read this, especially because I was raised in a town where the forestry industry is the main staple of income for most. What if the animals all rebelled to the cutting down of trees...how would they do it? What would be the end result? This book brings to a lighthearted look on the ecosystems and habitats of animals a great way to touch briefly on the environment as well. I discussed with Princess B, what bear could have changed to his reaction in the trees being cut down. We also talked about emotions and how they get expressed differently in various situations.

CURRICULUM CONNECTIONS

Language Arts

Picture Books

READING LEVELS

Fountas & Pinnell I

Grade Level 1/2

Reading Recovery15-16

About the book:

Moose is from the start of the story, quiet and reserved in his character. This moose may live in the wild, but he doesn't act it — he watches from the sidelines as his friends have fun. Every now and then, he wonders if he's missing out on anything. When the moose finally takes a chance and goes on a solo sailing trip, a raging storm carries him far from everything he knows. Will he curl up in a ball and cry, or make the 'moose' of it? This once mild-mannered moose, soon learns how to take life by the antlers.

The moose's unlikely hero-journey is a lighthearted, contemporary fable that celebrates living life to the fullest.

My Review: This is a great read to show how not everything we do is set in stone, and when we are faced with a dilemma we must make the 'moose' of it. Live life to its fullest potential. this book introduces kids to the idea of making friends as well as getting to know yourself. The pun also kept me interested as an adult. It talks of how trying something new gives you confidence and self-esteem.

The Busy Beaver, © 2011, 4-color • 8 x 8 • 32 pages, Ages: 3 to 7, Grades: PreSchool to 2, Hardcover Jacket, ISBN: 978-1-55453-749-5, $16.95 CAD
CURRICULUM CONNECTIONS

Language Arts

Picture Books

READING LEVELS

Fountas & Pinnell I

Grade Level 1/2

Reading Recovery15-16

About the book:
The busy but careless beaver spends his days following random impulses, rarely thinking things through and leaving in his wake a devastated forest filled with stumps, half-nibbled trees and injured, homeless animals. But then one day the beaver finds himself on the wrong side of a falling tree, which as it turns out, is just the thing to knock some sense into him. After reflecting on his behavior, he decides to make some changes. Soon, the now wiser and gentler beaver is getting down to the business of making things right, much to the delighted surprise of his forest friends. This charming story which gently teaches youngsters how to take care with others, as well as the world around us.
My Review: I love the idea behind this book that if we rush through things without taking the time...things don't get done right. This is something for my new JK'er, she rushes everything and fails to take her time just so she get things done. This leads to carelessness and messy work along with disorganization in the long run. It shows how if you just slow down and look around you notice how things were not done in the greatest of your potential and could cause harm others around us.

This series of books by Nicholas Oldland, are colourful and the illustrations are stunning. Oldland has wonderful ideas that come to life in his 3 books here. We really enjoy reading them time and again.

Disclaimer: I received these books from Kids Can Press for the purpose of writing a review of the them, free of charge. There was no monetary gains made on my part. The opinions expressed here at strictly that of mine and you are free to make your own judgement.

Read to Me Mama Mondays #4

2011-11-28T15:10:00.000-05:00

The Munchkins and I recently received a new release book from Kids Can Press to review.
The book is called My Name is Elizabeth!

Author: Annicka Dunklee
Illustrator: Matthew Forsythe

4-color • 9 x 9 • 24 pages Ages: 3 to 7 Grades: PreSchool to 2

Hard cover Jacket ISBN:978-1-55453-560-6
$16.95 CAD
CURRICULUM CONNECTIONS
Character Education
self-respect
READING LEVELS
Fountas & Pinnell G
Grade Level 1
Reading Recovery 11-12
About the book:

Meet Elizabeth. She's got a pet duck, a loving granddad and an awesome first name. After all, she's got a queen named after her! So she's really not amused when people insist on using nicknames like "Lizzy" and "Beth." She bears her frustration in silence until an otherwise ordinary autumn day, when she discovers her power to change things once and for all. In the process, Elizabeth learns about communication and respect — and their roles in building better relationships with family and friends. The two-toned illustrations reflect the story's energy and sass, and the comic-book-like format makes it easy to follow. The cheeky, retro drawings also keep it real — depicting the sometimes-feisty Elizabeth as a resolutely normal kid — whether she's flossing her teeth or feeding her pet duck.

My Review: This book is very colourful and the illustrations are just eye-catching. It really puts forth the importance of being self-confident and having respect for yourself. Everyone at some point in their lives comes home with a nickname, and sometimes it is one we don't like at all. Elizabeth stands up to those individuals and makes sure they call her by her proper name. She shows love for her name and how it is important to her in every way...even a queen shares the same name with her. Pride in your name helps you respect yourself. Names are given because they have a meaning to your parents whether it be sentimental or not. No matter the number of letters in your name you should love it because it makes you who you are. This book teaches children to stand up for themselves when they don't like how people are addressing them and doing so in a means of communication so as to create understanding and respect. It was a hit with 4 year old Princess B because she herself has communication issues when it comes to her new classmates this year pronouncing her name properly...after all "B" and D" when an "r" follows do sound similar...NOT! I seen a lot of Princess B in "Elizabeth" the attitude and tenacity are certainly there as well as the need to show how important she is to everyone. Overall a definite good reader when it comes to teaching communication and respect for one's self. I think the next time I read it with Princess B we will discuss the ways Elizabeth could have reached out to others regarding her name, as well as manners.

Remembrance Day...Beanies For Bravery and Free Printables Link

2011-11-10T22:05:00.001-05:00

I am reposting a link to a post I created las year in honour of the past and present service men and women...I recently participating in a Crochet for a Cause called Beanies for Bravery. Beanies for Bravery is a dream of one of my favourite crochet pattern creators, Heidi from Snappy Tots. She had dreamt of sending beanies to service men and women in Afghanistan to keep them warm for the winter under their helmets. In the initial call to duty, Heidi wanted to reach 200 brave service personnel and by the deadline in October that number more than doubled. She has sent 2 shipments overseas and has more to go in the next few weeks. If you are a knitter or a crocheter on Heidi's blog, Snappy Tots, she has posted a free pattern for crocheting and as for a knitted pattern there are certain measurements that the beanie must meet website there are patterns for knit and crochet. Here is the link page with information on how you can get involved...click HERE.
If you can help out with the Beanie for Bravery by all means do...it means so much to the men and women to know that there are people from across the seas believing in what they do...

Here are the printable links from last years homage to all who serve and have served so we could enjoy our FREEDOM!!!
Remembrance Day posting from 2010 with printables

Read-To-Me-Mama Mondays #3

2011-11-07T22:00:00.000-05:00

I am sorry for taking so long to put another edition of this series up....life has been hectic here. Now I am back to help promote reading to your child, as part of my daughter's JK program the kids received a red file folder and inside was a calendar and instructions for the parents to read to their children every night and sight on the calendar then return the folder with the communication folder each day for the teacher to give the children a stamp for the day and at the end of the month they would get a reward (to be placed on the opposite page in chart form for each month. I think this is a great way to peak your child's literary interests and it can be reading on all levels of media forms (such newspaper, magazines, instruction manuals, cook books) as well as books. I love this idea, not only does it force parents to read to their child but also slow down and take some end of day time to be with your family. The only thing is how does the school reinforce the importance to those parents who don't see it as important, that question was answered today when the teacher instructed the siblings of one student to read to them and sign off on it because it was an important part of learning.
So today, I want to discuss some of the books we have been reading as part of Princess B's JK program.

Chester by Melanie Watt (Author/ Illustrator), 2007, ISBN: 978-1-55453-1-40-0 (Hardcover), ISBN: 978-1-55451-460-9 (Paperback), Ages 4-8, 32 pages, $18.95 (Hardcover), $8.95 (Paperback) CAD
Chester is a picture book with more. Inside the cover of the book is a story that is told and retold through dueling authors. The author, Melanie, starts the story out about a mouse in a house, when all of a sudden Melanie's cat, Chester, takes over the story with his red marker and send that mouse packing and then rewrites the story about himself. As Chester's antics escalate Melanie and the mouse won't have any of it. Chester becomes a powerful and confident feline with his red marker in tow, while Mealnie and mouse fight back to regain control of this book. Needless to say, Chester loses his power when he is written into the story as a pink tutu wearing cat.
My Review: This was one of the funniest books I have read. The kids and I enjoyed the take-charge-cat but his antics with the red marker for the kids was "naughty" It was a picture book filled with questions as to what Chester would do next. And the end when he was written in as a pink tut wearing cat was where the giggles came out for all of us. We loved discussing the antics and what was wrong with them. Chester and his red marker take over was a hit but the wonderful story was able to introduce to my kids what was right and wrong in a situation such as this, not that we have a cat that can take over out book but maybe when faced with not wanting something instead of forcing a change maybe discussing why you don't like the situation and how you can compromise may be an option.
I found a great site with activities that we will be using the more we read Chester, go to the follow URL: http://www.bookcentre.ca/activity_chester

Cinnamon Baby by Nicola Winstanley, Illustrated by Janice Nadeau, 2011, ISBN: 978-1-55337-821-1, 32 pages, Ages 3-7, $18.95 CAD
This book is a modern version of folklore that brings to discussion of a magical remedy for stopping a baby from crying. It starts that story about a baker named Miriam, who creates delicious bread works of art that fill your nose full of wonderful scents and make you tongue come alive with each bite. As each page turns we learn that

Miriam's own favorite cinnamon bread also delights Sebastian, a musician who enters her shop, that he buys it every day for a year and then asks her to marry him. After a baby is born to the happy couple, all is blissful until their bundle of joy begins crying. And crying. Only when the two are almost at wit's end does Miriam suddenly know, looking down at her baby curled up like a little raisin, exactly what she must do.

A celebration of the bond between mother and child and an ode to the power of our senses, each delectable word and image of this beautifully told and illustrated story will be savoured.

My Review: This is a lovely tale of how the bond between mother and child begins in the womb. It is a wonderful story of how the love of a mother knows just what a child needs. It is this sixth sense, that brings this crying baby to a sudden squeal of happiness. It is as much as lovely to read as it is to look at the illustrations that are a beautiful compliment to the tale. For me this was a great tale to use as a means to end the day for my kiddies, reminding me of though the day may not always be perfect and they may not always listen but I love them not matter what.

On the Kids Can Press link to this book are some story time activities that can be used to promote the caring character education that this book holds for the children, from prop suggestions to discussion of the five senses to sound and smell recognition to the discussion on how they parent(s) make the student feel better or comforted when they are sad. Also included is a page to allow the children to draw their favourite smell.

Lovable Labels Winner and a couple of Halloween inspirations from my Crochet Addiction....

2011-10-27T01:14:00.000-04:00

The winner of the Lovable Labels back-To-School pack is.....

and who is #6????

Forever Hooked Designs said...

Thanks for the info on Loveable Labels, I've now 'liked' it on FB. :) I think my 5 yr old daughter would love the Diva labels! She's already lost a few things at school and this should be a great way of saving her stuff! :)

October 17, 2011 9:49 AM

Congratulations Forever hooked Designs for winning...please contact me within 24 hours to claim your prize.

Stay tuned in the very near future for a great Holiday Giveaway!!!!

Thanks again to the wonderful people at Lovable Labels for allowing me to review and share with you this great product!

Halloween is now just days away and I made a few things for the kids to wear this week leading up to the fun day!!!

My Lil Frankie
pattern by Snappy Tots
(known as the Frankie Helmet)

Mrs. Frankenstein

pattern by Snappy Tots

(part of the DIY Slouchy Animal Hats Pack...my variation)

My Lil Monsters

Patterns by Snappy Tots

Thanks to Snappy Tots for the wonderful patterns and allowing me to play with them a little.....

Hope you all have a wonderful, safe and sugar filled Halloween!!!

EcoMom Products Review

2011-10-20T18:55:00.002-04:00

Ecomom, the online resource and place to buy everything family, sent me a few items to review. Ecomom was founded so as to address the connection between the health of our children and the health of our environment. Ecomom is seriously committed to making eco-conscious living easy, affordable, and rewarding. By helping to offer a place to find things to take better care of themselves and their families – with education, support, tools and products. "we empower them to take the all important first steps toward a healthier, more balanced, and sustainable lifestyle." (Source: ecomom.com)
Ecomom wants every mom to be apart of their movement so that to prove that "being an ecomom means making choices that are good for all of us, and the planet which we all share." (Source: ecomom.com)
Ecomom was launched by 2 moms and has grown to include every family member for the good of family and the environment.
The Ecomom motto is "Love your Family. Love the Planet." and they stand by this commitment to uphold this in their products they sell as well as the articles they share with their readers and customers.
Ecomom offer products for everyone who shares a interest in making the environment a priority in raising a family, from organic food to eco friendly gear to playing and learning to gifts for all occasions. Ecomom has got you covered when it comes to coexisting with a healthy family and a healthy planet that will be around for generations to share.

So here is what I received to review:

Priti Nail Polish, Pangea Organics, Egyptian Magic

Priti Organic Nail Polish in American Star- This is a eco-friendly nail polish that is free from carcinogens. It is a non-toxic nail polish in a reddish pink shade. It is TFFF/DBP THREE FREE NAIL ENAMEL with a rich colour. Priti nail polish, polish remover, cuticle oil,and sugar scrub are created with organic resources that are safe for people and the planet. Priti's luxury nail polish in beautiful colors, without the chemicals. Priti in Sanskrit means “out of satisfaction, with love, pleasurable sensation, affection, attraction, happy.” The non-toxic nail polishes are not drying nor yellowing. Designed and named after beautiful flowers and plants. The polish is fast drying, chip resistant, and has a super glossy finish.

Priti NYC Organic is a luxury line of nail polishes are formulated without known carcinogens toluene, dibutyl phthalate (DBP), and formaldehyde and without camphor or petroleum ingredients. No animal testing, certified vegan. No ingredients listed by NTP, IARC or OSHA as carcinogenic.

Priti also has a soy nail polish remover is EPA APPROVED as non-toxic and completely biodegradable, making it safe for Priti princesses and expecting goddesses to use.

ALL COLORS HAVE BEEN FDA APPROVED.

Priti NYC Nail Polish is known among beauty insiders as the leader in luxury eco-friendly nail polish, Priti NYC is the brainchild of Kim D’Amato when she took it upon herself during her pregnancy, to make a conscious effort to switch to organic foods and healthy living. She created Priti to beautify herself and at the same time she was supporting organic farmers as well as decreasing the chemicals poisoning the earth and its inhabitants. At last, a safe, durable, conscious, luxurious, high quality line of nail polish!
Here are a list of some of the ingredients and their details on how they are eco-friendly...
Ingredients: Butyl Acetate – an organic compound common used as a solvent. Colorless, soluble found in many types of fruit such as red apples and used as flavoring in candy, and baked goods. It also has the sweet smell of banana. Ethyl Acetate – colorless organic compound with a pungent smell like pear drops. Used as a solvent. Nitrocellulose – long lasting film-forming agent derived from cellulose. Acetyl Tributyl Citrate – colorless non-toxic liquid used as a food additive. Phthalic Anhydride/Trimellitic Anhydride/Glycols Copolymer – intermediate for the synthesis of surface coating in dyes and adhesives. Isopropyl Alcohol – non-toxic alternative to formaldehyde. Stearalkonium Hectorite – thickening agent to make sure all the glitter doesn't sink to the bottom. Adipic Acid/Fumaric Acid/Phthalic Acid/Tricyclodecane Dimethanol Copolymer – organic compound used as a food flavorant ingredient, found in mushrooms and lichen. Citric Acid – from citrus fruits.

Princess B always wants to be the little woman...
don't grow up too fast Mama already dies
a little inside everyday you get older

Review: I loved the colour and the fact that I could apply it to Princess B's nails without the fear it would be eating or even make its way near her mouth. The colour was red with a bright pink undertone, and during application there was only a slight smell rather that then noxious smells that come from the other polishes out there on the market. The paint did not chip off nor did it yellow our nails. It is definitely a hit with Princess B and Mama. It definitely reminded me of the red in the stripes of the American flag. It went on smooth and didn't need more than two coats for the best coverage, one coat on Princess B's nails was great for her to show off her diva-ness!

Pangea Organics Shower Gel in Italian White Sage with Geranium & Yarrow- Pangea Organics is a "Ecocentric" body care company. They focus on nuturing, handcrafted, organic, fair trade (whenever possible) and cruelty-free when creating their products. The shower gel is formulated with organic oils of olive oil, hempseed, coconut, and jojoba; and infused with exotic essential oil aromas. They are skin conditioner and great for use when shaving. The shower gels are thick and in a concentrated form so they last longer. The White Sage has properties of antioxidant, calming and soothing while the Geranium has toning, rejuvenating and uplifting properties; and the Yarrow is anti-allergenic, anti-inflammatory and detoxifying. The shower gel for the mind: uplifting/ body: balancing.
Review: This was a wonderful smelling and tingling all over refresher for me. I loved being taking in by the intoxicating scents that arose from the shower. I truly felt it help me find myself after a long day of needing balance and calming. The uplifting smell woke my senses.

Egyptian Magic All-Purpose Skin Cream- Egyptian Magic is a skin care cream with legendary healing powers due to its unique blend of all natural ingredients derived only from living plants and organisms. Egyptian Magic has been on the market for 25 years and has grown through word of mouth into one of the most popular and widely endorsed skin creams in the world. Egyptian Magic is made from the purest, all-natural ingredients we can find. These ingredients are widely believed to yield healthful effects on the skin and have been used for centuries to care for and nourish the skin: olive oil, bees wax, honey, bee pollen, royal jelly and bee propolis.
Review: I loved how light this cream was when I put it on. I used on my face as well as on a few stretch marks just to see if it would make a change in them. I noticed that my face seemed more elastic and firm while the stretch marks were not really showing any sign of change but perhaps if I use it a little longer they will. My skin has a tendency to get a little dry with our Canadian winters and windchill factors, and my skin didn't seem to be as dry and had a pick-me-up to it. Love the

We thoroughly enjoyed our chance to review some products from Ecomom. Before I finish I just wanted to let you know that they have a Daily Deal that you can sign up for to receive in your inbox which gives you the deal of the day. It is the Ecomom's program where each day they alert you to one item for one unbelievable price!!! Grab it before it's gone because once it is gone it is gone!!!
Also if you plan to shop frequently on Ecomom, you may interested to know they have an Ecomom Ecopass which gives you a VIP pass with such bonuses to their loyal customers as... a very simple way to save on their entire inventory. If you want to save on every purchase, ecopass is your ticket. Here is what you get with you Ecopass purchase:

Free Shipping on every order. Your order can be one item or 100 items, it's always free shipping.
15% savings on every product.
Advance looks at new products.You get to help us decide which products we sell. Your voice will be heard and represented.
Exclusive offers and promotions. Get the ins and outs on the Daily Deal, get to select new products as well as the opportunity to buy them before any one else.
Another bonus is that you also get to suggest which products you think should be promoted with the reward of even greater savings.
All for the price of $99.00 USD

And the Ecopass Pays for itself in as little as four orders!
So if you like the idea of getting an added savings check out the Ecopass it may be something for you.

Loves her polish...such a pretty little lady

Disclaimer: I received samples of these products from Ecomom.com, in order to offer up my opinion of them in this review. There was no monetary gain from doing this review. The views expressed here are entirely that of my own, you are free to make your own judgement about the product featured in this post.

EXTENDED---- In Honour of Princess B's first Month of JK----Lovable Labels Giveaway!!!!

2011-10-01T21:15:00.003-04:00

Princess B's First Day in Junior Kindergarten in photos.....

(don't look at the date because my camera's battery died and it reset itself to 2010...even though I had set it once it had charged to 2011...technology????)

In her 1st Day school outfit

Overcast day...Lil Bro covering his eyes

Waiting to go in to school

End of Day 1 of JK

So I wanted to do something to commemorate Princess B's first month in JK and I was given an opportunity to review a great product..... Lovable Labels is the sponsor for this wonderful giveaway!!!!

Lovable Labels is a company that was started by a mom, who found herself in the middle of a problem when she started taking her son to childcare, and was required to label all of his belongings. From this she recognized that there was a need for personalized labels that were tough and would make it through the various situations and return home with the child. These labels needed to be durable and stand the test of time as well as all the situations from washing and drying as well as whatever children could do with their belongings. So out of this developing need came Lovable Labels. These personalized durable labels and tags are Lovable Labels specialty. The labels and tags were developed with the best quality that are both beautiful and durable! The labels are waterproof, dishwasher and microwave safe, washer and dryer safe, sun safe, bleach safe, sunscreen safe and temperature safe. From the multipurpose sticker labels to the shoe labels and clothing labels, Lovable Labels makes sure you are don't lose! Lovable Labels was launched in 2003, and over the years have continued to strive for innovative and useful products. Many of the products at Lovable Labels are derived from customer suggestions and feedback, and they are constantly add new products and ideas to challenge themselves to bring the best quality to their customers.
Why a need to develop this kind of product???
Children lose stuff! No matter where your child goes they will misplace their belongings and tend to come home without them. Lovable Labels is the solution to this problem!!! With durable, affordable and unique designs on their lables, they make sure to have you covered. Lovable Labels helps to svae you money because your children's stuff will come back home with them!!!

My Review:
We chose the DIVA pack for the Princess because she was all about pink and purple as well as the Princess

Diva Pack

Booklet of stickers

In her Back to School Pack we received 2 dog tags, Shoe labels, slimline labels, square labels, clothing lables, and regular labels. Mama received "I <3 Blogging" labels. We labelled everything Princess B had that would be end up going to school. The Lovable Labels arrived in a booklet which makes storing the extras much easier for me. It gave clear instructions on how to apply them for all the different types of labels. I really love them and think that they are the best invention for any parent to have in their roster of must haves.

Shoe Label

Lunch container with Regular Label

Press n; Stick Clothing Dot

Sticker label on lunch bag

Slimline label on Sippy

School Supplies all labelled

I really love that I have washed a number of Princess' things we labelled, sippys containers, lunch bag and jackets...not one label came off in the process. I will be purchasing some for Monkey as well in the near future! I really think that this product well represents the various children out there. Lovable Labels has also taken into consideration those with allergies, making labels available to show this to those around them. I will also be looking into the Vital ID Wristbands that they have which will allow me as a parent of a child in school a peace of mind as well as create a safety feature. Lovable Labels also has Medical Wristbands, where they vital information can be available on hand at all times and they bear the International Medical Emblem. Lovable Labels is also not without their Combo Pack Savings, which includes the Back-To-School pack, Camping packs and Starter packs. I have to say that for the amount of labels you receive that prices are very reasonable, even for the frugal parent in all of us. Our family gives this product 4 thumbs up (one for every member)!!!

The Giveaway

Lovable Labels is giving one Follower of AM2CW a Back-To-School Pack (valued at $44.95) personalized to your child or you.

Here is how you enter for your chance to win...

Mandatory Entries (must complete all in order to be eligible, leaving a separate comment for each one)

*****Do not forget to leave a way for me to contact you if you are the winner, if it is not attached to your profile*****

1. Hop on over to Lovablelables.ca and take a look around, come on back and tell me what design you like the best and who are you going to use these labels for if you win???
2. Follow Lovablelabels.ca via Twitter and/ or Facebook, please leave your twitter handle and/ or your Facebook profile name in your comment. Don't forget to tell them AM2CW sent you
3. Follow AM2CW blog via GFC,

Bonus Entries
4. Mention this giveaway on your blog and leave me the link (one entry)
5. Follow AM2CW on Twitter
6. LIKE Am2CW on Facebook
5. Share this giveaway on Twitter or Facebook and get one entry per method of your share
6. Grab AM2CW's blog button, and leave your blog link

There you have it, your ways to get in on this giveaway are many!!! Please be sure to complete all the mandatory entries in order to be eligible to winn

The giveaway ends October 25th at 7:59 pm EST!

The winner will be announced October 26st!

***I am using Random.org to select the winner***

Winner chosen will have 48 hours to claim the prize once contacted by AM2CW.

Must be 18 years of age to be eligible for giveaway

Contest is open to Canada and US residents only!

Thank you again to Lovable Labels for the opportunity to tell my readers about their wonderful product!

**Disclosure** The product in this review was provided to me free of cost for the purpose of conducting this review. All opinions expressed in this review are that of my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Scholastic Books Review

2011-10-01T09:00:00.000-04:00

Princess B, Monkey and Mama have received a few new books courtesy of Scholastics Canada to review. This review is separate from the Read-To-Me- Mama Monday series which will return in October.
We received 4 books over the summer to read. Since starting JK Princess has to record daily readings in her communication folder and return it daily to the teacher. The promotion os reading is great because it becomes our winding down time. Although I have noticed that Princess B has started to memorize the stories we repetitively read...two of them are in this review.
The Underpants Zoo, Author/Illustrator Brian Sendelbach, ISBN: 978-0-545-24935-5, Ages 3-8, May 2011, Hardcover, $19.99 CAD, is about a zoo where all the animals where underpants just like us. What kind of underpants would a lion wear? how about an elephant? Come through the gates of the Underpants Zoo and find out the answers to these questions, and see just how an octopus manages to wear his underpants! My Review: Brian Sendelbach is a bestselling illustrator and has created a funny and wacky world that captured my little one imagination and love of reading. This book has become a favourite of Princess B and Monkey. It is now a staple in out bedtime routine and we read it at least 3 out of 7 nights of the week. This book has captured her creativity and she loves to discuss the types of underpants other zoo animals might wear as well. Each of the animals in the book wear the underpants that characterize them, lions= royalty, monkeys= wild, and so on. it has rhyming and colour filled illustrations that draw every reader to enjoy it! From start to finish the book entices and pulls you into an world of wonder and enjoyment and fun with every page turn. We give The Underpants Zoo 4 thumbs up!!

Meow said the Cow, Author/Illustrator Emma Dodd, ISBN: 978-0-545-31861-7, Ages 4-8, May 2011, Hardcover, $19.99 CAD, is a story of how the happenings on a farm was changed when the cat got tired of the the noises each animal made every morning. So the cat played with black magic. And what happens next is truly a mixup. Horses were "quacking" and Cows were "meowing"...but when the animals demanded to have their voices back the cat reversed the spell for all of them but one... And the cat got a taste of his own medicine each morning when he wakes early and gives a "Cock-a-doodle-doodle-doo!!!" My review: This is a book that I loved reading to the kiddies because I noticed that I would read it with more zealous each time. It is a fun book! I use it to get the kids attention sometimes when they are getting a little out of hand and I begin to use a voice that is not my own. It is a great book to help teach your children of the sounds associated with each animal as well as recognition of what has happened in the story. It has become a favourite of Monkey. We give this book of animal antics 4 thumbs up!

Give Me Back My Dad!, Author: Robert Munsch, Illustrated by Michael Martchenko, ISBN: 978-1-4431-0764-8 (paperback), ISBN: 978-1-4431-0763-1 (hardcover), Ages 3-8, May 2011, $7.99 (paperback), $19.99 (hardcover) CADs , is a wonderfully written story inspired by Cheryl, a young girl that the author met in Rigolet, Labrador 20 years ago. The story tells of the ice fishing trip that Cheryl took with her dad. In this tale it seems that the fish are too smart for Cheryl and her dad. The fish try to catch humans right back! In the end, Cheryl and her dad bring home something good and it isn't a fish at all! My Review: Robert Munsch is the greatest children's author I have ever known. I loved reading this as it is written and it is a tale that by doing that drew the kids to request it over and over. Honestly, I love all of the books written by Munsch. This one is a fun tale of fish versus human, human versus fish that in the end becomes a family story. It was fun asking what Cheryl and her dad need to do to catch a fish. Our family gives this tale 4 thumbs up!!!
Side Note: This book was chosen as the winning story in the Scholastic Canada's Pick-A-Munsch contest!!!

Picture A Tree, Author/Artist Barbara Reed, ISBN: 978-1-4431-0761-7, Ages 3-8, October 2011, Hardcover, $19.99 CAD, is a beautiful book about how trees are pictured in every season and from every angle. It discuss how these wondrous living beings give shade and shelter. They protect and bring beauty to any landscape. What do YOU see??? Taking a closer look at a tree and its splendour and glory in the colours creates excitement and relaxation. The shape of a tree can ignite imagination and conjure a world of wonder, through it becoming a pirate ship, a friend, or a tunnel to name a few. Its grandeur creates a sense of family, belonging, changes, growth, endings and new beginnings. What you make of a tree when you look at one closely leaves the possibilities to be never ending...just as in the circle of life. My Review: This picture book is created in the art of Plasticine as the author brings her story to life. It really made us feel as if we were in the book. The colourful modelling of clay and means of bring the story to her vision through her craft is amazing. It brought me back to my child hood where we used trees as our pretend homes and hiding places as we played amongst them at my grandmothers. I enjoyed thinking back to what role trees played in my life as I was growing up, serving as pretend places, homes, stores, and fun hideaways. The pride of having planted a tree in my parents yard and now seeing the size of it as well as the animals that call it home. We discussed the way trees change go through as the seasons change and what it means. I used this book to help the kids understand the seasons and changes that take place throughout the years. 4 Thumbs up for Picture A Tree!!!!

All of these works of literature can be found on the Scholastic website, if you are interested in adding them to your library!!

Disclosure: We received these books free of charge from Scholastic Canada in exchange for the reviews expressed above. There was no monetary gain made from these reviews, no money exchanged hands; and the opinions expressed here are that of our own, you are free to make your own judgement.

Crazy Socks Crochet Crochet-Along!!!

2011-09-29T09:04:00.001-04:00

Danyel over at Crazy Socks Crochet is having a Crochet-Along (CAL). She has posted the pattern link as well as the time frame to get your CAL completed. It is just in time for Christmas and the project is a Christmas Stocking. I will be joining her on the CAL, if you want to join us please by all means hop over to the link below and do so. It will be fun that is for sure. I have made my stocking in the past but since crocheting has come back to me, was it lost no but I was I guess...lol. The stocking CAL is just the thing I need to have a little fun and get Princess B in on it to help with colour picking and the like.
I will post pics of the end projects as I travel onward with the CSC CAL!!!

To join the Crazy Socks Crochet Crochet-Along go HERE.
Thanks Danyel for the push to start on Christmas projects!!!

Where has September gone???

2011-09-29T09:00:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone!
I want to first off apologize for my lack of posting as of late... September has flown by without me even realizing it!!!! Wow, this past few weeks have been emotional and overwhelming. Our family is getting into the school mode with Princess B and Monkey is having a hard time understanding that she goes away and always comes back. Princess B has been a really hard to figure out for Mr. Man and I as of late, if she hears him leaving for work in the morning she has a massive attachment attack with crying screaming and stalling. one morning it took Mr. Man almost 30 minutes to get out the door with her clinging to his leg like static. With me it has been even more extreme. It seems she is having some type of separation anxiety. I cannot leave the house to get some "me" time without her running screaming and crying into the garage. One night I was in my truck getting ready to put it in reverse when I heard her screaming over the radio and vehicle running and the door to garage closed.... Can you say STRESSFUL. it has recently started to change the clinging and outbursts are starting to simmer down. The other night she and I were heading to "meet the teacher" night at her school and Mr. Man began mocking her, clinging and crying and begging and stalling her. And then I discussed it with her and she seems to have come to an understanding that it is not the way to behave. Monkey is the calm cool kinda boy...you give him Thomas, Lightning McQueen or even a Max and Ruby episode and he says not one word except to tell you it is over. It helps when I need to get food prepared or run on the treadmill.
Other than the family's adjustment to school, Princess is also taking dance and talk about the speed night for cooking....we only have 2 hours to get fed and dressed and out the door. I don't know about any one else but Princess takes almost 1 hour just to eat half of her meal...she has an excuse for every reason to get down from the table...

I introduced a Responsibilty Chart to her on Monday, I went to Michaels and purchased the Melissa and Doug Responsibility Chart to get her into the mode of be a "big girl" as she so clearly calls herself. We hung it in the kitchen near the dining area, she is able to see the spots that are empty and ask what she has left to fill in.
Her responsibilities are both activities around the home and character building. I gave her make her bed, get dressed, brush teeth, clean room, put away toys, do homework (yes, they received homework this week in JK!), put clothes in the laundry basket, take a bath/shower, get ready for bed; then sharing, keeping hands to self, saying please and thank you, showing respect and no whining (my favourite). She must fill her day with the happy faces. She chose a goal for the end of the week to be awarded if all days are filled (80%). The rewards are endless from playing a game on my iPhone (this weeks reward goal), day out with mom or dad, special treat, trip to the mall for a mango slush, and many more. These will be written on paper for her to chose in the next week along with a few wild cards and stockpile rewards- monetary possibly. It is day 2 of the program and she has been doing great, I know it will only get better.

What else have I been up to???
I have been getting my crochet on...I started my own shop on Facebook, Little PINK thread.
I have been helping out Heidi at Snappy Tots in her call for beanies to fulfill her Beanies for Bravery. I just finished 5 beanies and sent them off to her. Her goal is 200 beanies to be sent to the soldiers in Afghanistan. If you can help please head over get the free pattern she has posted and crochet or knit away...her deadline right now is post marked packages by October 1st, but if yours doesn't get there in time she will be doing another event again very soon.
Stop by the shop on Facebook and check it out..."LIKE" Little PINk thread if you want to, one can never have to many friends.
Here are a few projects I have been working on for the shop:

Berry Boarder Hat
(Snappy Tots pattern)

Monkey hat
(RAKJ Patterns pattern)

Koala Hat
(Crochet My Love Designs pattern)

2 of the Angry Fowl hat
(Snappy Tots pattern)

Piggy Hat and Rump Cover
(Crochet My Love Designs pattern)

Munching Caterpillar Hand Puppet
(Snappy Tots pattern)

Sock Monkey hat
(Crazy Socks Crochet pattern)

Canadian Sock Monkey Hat
and Cocoon set (Snappy Tot pattern)

Adult Cable Twist Newsboy hat
(Rebecca Ann Designs Pattern)

Most of theses and many more are available on my page, should you be interested contact me there. I am really enjoying working up the patterns more for fun and relaxation...a little "me" time. Mr. Man however doesn't like the yarn bills that are coming in though ;)

Hope you all have a great day!

P.S. if you have kept reading, stay tuned I will be posting giveaway Friday!!! I also have a few reviews to write up for you too!

Pieces of Me Pendants Winner

2011-09-16T10:13:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Pieces of Me Pendants for sponsoring this giveaway. I am sorry I am late announcing the winner, been trying to get into the groove of having Princess B in school.... She has really enjoyed her first week, except for the fact that she missed a day because of miscommunication with a school staff on her days she goes...Half day all week!!!! Monkey has been lost in the afternoons without her but today learned to cope by putting his toy cars into Princess B's precious dollhouse. if she had of been home there would have be a piper to be paid for sure! Luckily Mama help Monkey move his toys to a more appropriate place to play. Monkey has also been quite a fuss as of late...lost appetite and tantrums galore. Not fun to deal with at all. Terrible Twos, maybe but he's also now alone at home so looking for more attention, probably.
Sorry to ramble on.

Let's get to the reason you are here.
The winner..... as per random.org

#25!!! Congratulations!!!!
Just who is #25????

R Carter said...

I follow Lisa's lovely blog :)

September 7, 2011 1:10 PM

Congratulations R Carter! I will be contacting you shortly and will need a reply within 24 hours!

If you didn't win and liked what you seen in Lisa's shop please stop by I am sure she could help you in any way possible with your order.

Thanks again to Pieces of Me Pendants for sponsoring this giveaway and AM2CW!!!

September is here....Back to School....First day of JK and Pieces of Me Pendant Giveaway

2011-09-01T08:30:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it September already!!! Where has the summer gone??? Now that it is September...we all know what this means.... BACK TO SCHOOL!!!
This next week will be the hardest for me because Princess B is starting JK...we decide to enrol her in school rather than me homeschooling her for a different perspective on the world. Here in Ontario, the provincial school system has introduced "play-based learning" and it means a lot less sitting down and more interaction and hands-on learning. I will still work with her at home for about 1-2 hours on her off days (she only goes 2 1/2 hours per day where she is 2 days on one week and 3 days on the following week alternatively). She has been begging me to teach her to read so we will be working on the word families and Dolce sight words. See my printable Word Family sort Mats...which I will be adding more next week, so you can learn along with us. I have been using the tutorial by The Snail's Trail on homemade word family game, made from paint chips (oh how I love paint chips...I have a secret addiction to them....no really I do!) We will also be using some stuff from the blog, The Moffat Girls who have a Ready2Read and other printables to help with learning.
I have been having bouts of insomnia as result of my anxiousness for Princess B going to school. One night all I could think of was someone trying to abduct her...which lead to a huge discussion about "Stranger Danger" and different scenarios.
How did you approach the issue of "Stranger Danger" with your kids???
It is an important issue but how did you explain it? We discussed different instances where someone might approach her when she is in a certain setting...not that she'll be out of my sight but at school it is different...1 teacher to 20 some kids....what if is I all I can say.

Now on to the Giveaway!!!!

So in honour of Princess B's first day at school, Lisa of Pieces of Me Pendants is graciously sponsoring a giveaway here at AM2CW.

The Prize is a scrabble pendant, winner choice, and chain, like these ones...

To win...here's what you need to do....
Mandatory entries (please Please PLEASE leave a means to contact you if it not on you profile, don't want you missing out on your prize should you be chosen...I use random.org to pick the winner by the way)

***LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY PLEASE***

***MUST DO ALL MANDATORY ENTRIES TO BE COUNTED IN GIVEAWAY OR YOU WILL BE EXCLUDED FROM THE DRAW...and I do check them all!***

1. Go over to Pieces of Me Pendants and choose a favourite, come back and leave a comment on which one you like.
2. Follow this blog on GFC
3. Follow Lisa's blog, Indie Craft Corner, already do please leave a comment saying so too!

Bonus entries
1. Heart Pieces of Me Pendants on Etsy
2. Subscribe to Indie Craft Corner's email
4. Subscribe to AM2CW's email, get 2 entries
5. Like AM2CW on Facebook (see right sidebar for link), get 2 extra entries
6. Follow AM2CW on Twitter (see right sidebar for link), get 2 extra entries
7. Blog, Tweet or Facebook status update about this giveaway, post link get 3 entries

Here are some other examples of what is available in Lisa's shop too...

Rudolph pendant

Personalized pendant

Pretty Pinks pendant

Also Lisa has some great deals in her shop as well, such as:
-BUY 3 Pendants (Scrabble or Round or Mixed) and receive 1 FREE Chain
Available: FREE 17" Snake Chain OR FREE Ball Chain (your length choice) with purchase of 3 pendants.
-Buy 6 pendants get 2 free chains, Buy 9 pendants get 3 free chains, etc! :)

AND she has wholesale, as well as party and gift making kits too... I am thinking great for Christmas gifts, party favours or even wedding favours (she does do personalized work too!).

I want to thank Lisa and Pieces of Me Pendants for sponsoring this giveaway!

Stop by and check out her shop!

Good Luck!

Giveaway will run until September 10th

Winner announced September 11th

P.S. Pieces of Me Pendants is now a Blog sponsor....Thank you Lisa!

Unclaimed Micah Makes pattern giveaway needs new winner!!!!

2011-08-27T21:40:00.001-04:00

Well, I am sorry to have to tell you this but the winner has not claimed the Micah Makes Patterns Giveaway and a new winner had to be drawn..... so the winner of the Micah Makes 3 Patterns of choice is.......

#245 is WHERETHEY'LLGO and they said....

wherethey'llgo said...

Following AM2CW's blog!

August 25, 2011 10:00 AM

I will be contacting you via email to tell you that you won. Please be sure to reply within 24 hours to my message or another winner will be chosen...so please reply. WHo wouldn't want to be the winner of such a great prize!!!

Micah Makes Pattern Giveaway-CLOSED!

2011-08-18T14:02:00.000-04:00

***GIVEAWAY is now closed!

Winner to be announced shortly!

Thank you for your participation!!!****

This giveaway is being hosted by Micah Makes. Micah Makes is the cute little Etsy shop, where you can great you 'hook on'. Micah Makes is a shop filled with crochet patterns for some pretty darn cute items. And there really is a Micah behind Micah Makes. Micah York, she is a SAHM to 2 boys, and this little shop helps her do her most important job. Micah has created each pattern in American terminology, but very easy to follow plus she makes herself available to you through email if there are any questions that come up while you are following her pattern. All of Micah's patterns are available in multiple sizes allowing you to have numerous options when it comes to the finished product.
I sent Micah a few questions to allow us to get to know the creative mind behind these lovely patterns. Here are her answers:

AM2CW: Where did you get your start? Self taught or learn from family or friend?

Micah: When I was a teenager, I decided I didn't want to be limited to the clothes and accessories that were available in stores, so my mom taught me how to sew, my aunt taught me to knit, and I taught myself to crochet. I grew to love all of these crafts, but crochet has always been my favourite.

AM2CW: Where do you get your ideas?

Micah: I like to create things that I would use for my own family, friends or myself. My boys' interests have inspired some of my hat patterns, like the firefighter helmet, train conductor hat and triceratops hats, but every once in a while I like to make something for myself, like the breezy newsboy hat and interchangeable flowers. My family and friends are always contributing great ideas too.

Sometimes I am inspired by a certain shape or color combination. I also LOVE to put creative spins on hat styles to turn them into animals, such as the penguin bomber hat, ladybug earflap hat and the frog prince hat. I spend so much time thinking about the designs, prototyping hats, and testing the patterns to make sure they are super-easy to follow.

AM2CW: What do you see for your shop in the next 6 months?

Micah: I have recently discontinued selling any custom ordered finished items so that I can focus strictly on creating new patterns. I have lots of ideas I would like to create to have available in my shop including more hats and other accessories. I am working on some new coupon codes that customers can use in my newly opened pattern store, and I will be adding learn-to-crochet videos to my blog so that I can share this fun craft with others.

AM2CW: Do you have some new patterns in the works?

Micah: I am always working on new patterns. At this point, I have more ideas than time to produce them, but I guess that is better than running out of ideas! Right now I am working on a pattern for a cowl and fingerless gloves.

AM2CW: What are 3 words that describe you and your shop?

Micah: Creative - I'm always trying to think of clever designs and unique ideas.

Valuable - Everything I sell I would be happy to buy. All my patterns are thoroughly tested to ensure they are easy to follow, and I always offer assistance if a customer needs some extra help.

Professional - This business is something I take very seriously. I strive to create quality patterns that will produce fun and functional products that people can enjoy.

AM2CW: What is the most popular pattern in your shop?

Micah: My most popular pattern is the firefighter helmet pattern. Everyone loves it, and it can be personalized with your favorite fire company number.

My Review:

I was given the chance to review one of Micah Makes crochet patterns... and after mulling over all of her very cute patterns. I chose to review the Worsted Weight Triceratops Hat. I chose this pattern because it is cute and reminds me of 'Tank the Triceratops' on the Dinosaur Train, as well as the fact that the majority of my crochet patterns I have are girly and wanted to be able to make something for Monkey and other 'little/ big' boys. I mean just look at the pattern's picture.... who wouldn't want to wear this on their head young or old. And it is also customizable for girls too! The pattern is multi-sized in it's option for you to make. The pattern is in pdf format download. The pattern is very easy to follow and I had no problem following the step by step instructions. I am a novice self-taught crocheter and have been crocheting since I was in high school. I found the pattern to be easy enough that a beginner would have no problem following it's instructions. My only problem was deciding the colour to make Monkey's hat and keeping Princess from trying to claim the finished hat as her own...and yes, I did end up making her one of her own in PINK of course. The pattern was originally created for bulky yarn but Micah has created a WW yarn option. Also I want to point out the the price of her patterns are pretty reasonable and in line with other shops that offer crochet patterns, you can bundle them and save more too!!! Here is how the Triceratops hat turned out...

Monkey in his Triceratops

Princess in her Triceratops

Giveaway

Micah Makes has graciously and generously offered one reader of AM2CW, a 3 crochet pattern bundle (value $14 USD) of the winner's choices.

How do you enter....
*Please leave a separate comment for each entry, both mandatory and bonus entries. Also do not forget to leave a means to contact you if you are chosen if you do not have it attached to your profile or anonymously.
Mandatory entries: (must enter these entries in order to qualify for your chance to win this giveaway)
1. Check out Micah Makes and choose a favourite, then come back and tell me
2. Follow AM2CW through the blog or with Facebook or Twitter (social media options found on the right side bar)-- 2 entries for each you do, leave a separate comment for each please.
-- Sign up for Micah Makes newsletter on her blog, where she has monthly giveaways of patterns--- get 2 bonus entries, leave separate comments for each entry
Bonus entries:
-- Heart Micah Makes to favourites on Etsy-- get 2 bonus entries, leave separate comment for each

-- Like Micah Makes on Facebook-- get 2 bonus entries, leave a separate comment for each
-- Blog, Tweet, Facebook Share this giveaway, leaving link in comment-- get 2 bonus entries for each method you use to spread the word.
-- Make a purchase from Micah Makes or Micahmakes.com-- get 4 bonus entries, leave a separate comment for each...proof will be invoice number and will be checked with Micah for verification (do not enter it in comment will be requested only if you win)

***08/18/2011 Giveaway Update: Get 2 BONUS Entries for daily posting to Facebook and Twitter, post link in comments every day for yours....ONLY 7 days left in the giveaway!!!! Chance to 14 Bonus entries just for posting to your status, on top of the other entries!!!!

There you have it you can get many, Many, MANY chances to win the 3 pattern bundle giveaway from Micah Makes!

Good Luck!

Giveaway ends August 25th

Winner announced on August 26th!!!

Here are a sneak peak at some of the patterns available from Micah Makes...

Penguin Hat pattern

Firefighter Helmet Pattern

Ladybug pattern

Newsboy Scalloped Breezy Beanie Pattern

So if you are a crocheter, you can definitely get hooked on Micah Makes' shop or Micahmakes.com.
I mean who couldn't with such cute patterns available!
Also on Micahmakes.com, she recently opened her "pattern shop" and is offering all her patterns just as she has in her Etsy shop. Also on micahmakes.com, Micah gives you some tips and tricks, as well as free (yes I said FREE!) patterns. Please take advantage of this special she has going on there.

The discount code is SAVE15 to get 15% off you order when you buy 2 patterns or
SAVE25 to 25% when you buy 3 patterns for this special! Buy more Save more!!!!

Thank you very much Micah and Micah Makes for hosting this giveaway...her first on someone else's blog outside of her own!!!! I am honoured and hope to get more hooked on your shop!

Weekend Win It over at The Life of Rylie... and Bryce too!

Sponsoring a Giveaway over at Mommy Does...

2011-08-16T16:06:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone,

Just wanted to tell you that I am sponsoring a giveaway over at Mommy Does... with Brooke Ann. She is co-hosting the "A Blogtastic Extravaganza 2.0" or A.B.E. 2.0 with My Silly Monkeys.
It starts August 17th and runs until August 21st. There are lots of prizes to win.
I am giving away a crocheted hat, from my newest adventure, Little Pink Thread, that is completely customizable to colour and size. Check out the Sponsor post over at Mommy Does...
Hope you'll hop over and check out the post.
Thanks to Brooke Ann at Mommy Does... and Jessica at My Silly Monkeys for the opportunity to get the word out about my new endeavour.

A Berry-rific Birthday for Princess

2011-08-15T13:21:00.005-04:00

Well, hello everyone!!!! Sorry I have been MIA for the last few weeks....you see Princess turned 4 and I have been prepping and prepping for her party which happened yesterday. Four! WOW she's 4 and starting JK in September I am waiting for the meltdown to take place in the next few weeks as the count down beginnings to the school year.
Princess wanted a Strawberry Shortcake themed party this year for her birthday! And who doesn't love Strawberry Shortcake...she is the epitome of little girl essence with the values she has and principles she shows off. I have loved Strawberry Shortcake since I was a little girl...and she just turn 30 last year so I am definitely dating myself aren't I. Her new modern look is very fun and colourful.
Here is the low down on the party.... It all started with this invitation that I made using clipart and Photoshop Elements then sent it to the Photocentre to print it off

Birthday Invite
Mama Made

Then I had won a printable party back in April from Lily's Laundry, and Laura designed some beautiful things for me, such as these cupcake toppers

Then I set out running and made it happen. Here are a few pictures from the party...

Birthday Girl in her Strawberry Shortcake newsboy hat,
tutu and leggings
Mama made

Strawberry Cake pops...were YUMMY!!!

Welcome to the Berry-rific party sign
Mama made

Cake and cupcakes on the cupcake stand
that was made over to
match the party colours
Mama made

Another view of the Berry Sweet Treats
Hot Pink Velvet Cake and cupcakes with
Cream cheese frosting

Hot Pink Velvet Cupcake before
Frosting added!!

Cupcakes all dressed for the party!

Princess' Cake

Banner made with my trusty Cricut and SCAL
along with some clipart and
Lily's Laundry made tags

Banner #1 made with printables from
Lily's Laundry

Princess B ready to party!

Party favours
Water bottles vinyled by Mama
Strawberry made on Cricut with SCAL

Water bottles all wrapped up
Mama made with Clipart and PSE

Princess B on her actual Birthday...
I love the rubber boots!!! They just make the entire outfit!!!
Tutu and Wings I won from TwiggleBox

One more pic of some table stuff!

Strawberry box Lollipop favours
and Lily's Laundry tags

I also have a Strawberry Shortcake Printable Bingo game that I have upload for you all to have for you little one to play from the party!
I hope you all enjoyed a sneak peak into my family and how we celebrated Princess B's 4th birthday. Monkey was there but was causing all kinds of commotion for us. He ended up here...

Princess trying to tell Monkey everything was okay if he
behaved and that she loved him anyway!

Thanks to Laura at Lily's Laundry for making the printables for the party.

Huge Happy 4th Birthday to Princess B (if you didn't notice already her name)! Love you so much!

Strawberry Shortcake Bingo Freebie

2011-08-15T13:01:00.000-04:00

Here is the Bingo game to go along with the Strawberry Shortcake party....

Just print out extra copies for you to use as calling cards and enjoy the Berry Bingo fun!

My Learning to Read Series- Part 1

2011-08-03T09:00:00.004-04:00

Welcome to my latest series as part of my part-time homeschooling attempts. I have been trying to teach Princess to read in the last few weeks and we started with Word Families and familiarized ourselves with the "-at" family first. I used the Paint Chip idea I saw on The Snail's Trail blog. We are working on single beginning letters rather than including blended letters first. I am amazed at how quickly Princess picked up the concept. But I did learn not to push her to practice for too long because she loses focus easily. We used the white board too as a reinforcer to the beginning...
So I sat down the other night and came up with an idea to help her with her recognition of the word families. I dug in deep and opened my PSE program to create Word Family Sorting Mat with Words. So I thought I would share with you the first of the series, which features 3 sorting sheets for word families: -at, -an, and -ar, along with words to match to the sorting mats (I did include some blended words but not a lot. There are blank squares if you want to add the blended words yourself.)

CLICK either picture above or HERE to download.

Have fun helping your child on their path to learning to read.

No Time for Flash Cards- Link & Learn

Blog Flip Flop Exchange 3 Update!

2011-07-20T13:56:00.002-04:00

So i just wanted to check in with you and update you on the Blog Flip Flop Exchange 3....
I received my package last week and it came from Debbie- Mississippi Mama. She has a cute little blog filled with DIY projects and crafts. Her blog is called Simply Southern, she is very talented.
Here is what came from Debbie

Red blinged out flip flops, A little note from Debbie,
A Mississippi coin purse keychain (already claimed by my 3 yr old),
and a funny postcard on "you know you are from Mississippi when..."

My feet love them, but realized that I need a pedi badly.
They are so comfy!!!

Thanks Debbie. I really enjoyed our exchange. I hope that you enjoy your package even if it was a little late due to postal strike here in Canada. Can't wait 'til next year's BFFE!!! Already keeping an eye out for cute flip flops.

Art Smock in a pinch tutorial

2011-07-13T10:37:00.008-04:00

This is a tutorial for an "Art Smock in a pinch."

Monkey and Princess were going to do some painting the other day and when I realized that Princess had a smock but Monkey didn't, it left me wondering how I would be able to save his clothes from the paint. He's 2 after all and tends to wipe his hands on his clothes when they get dirty. So after going through my craft stash, I found the leftover plastic tablecloth and thought...I can make a smock out of this that can be permanent or disposable. Here is my tutorial for the "Art Smock in a Pinch":
1. take a plastic table cloth like the ones you get at the dollar store for birthday parties for $1.00

2. Cut a length off of it that will cover you child's clothing...I made mine longer for Monkey to be sure all of his clothes were covered.

3. fold in half then cut out a "J" in the folded side corner

4. unfold the tablecloth then put over your child's head

5. cut a seam in the back if it is too big so you can tie it closer

6. have child hold arms out to the sides then cut little snips in the smock so you can tie it to keep it fit to the arms.

7. optional: you can also cut more snips in the sides to tie together for a better fit.

Sorry it's blurry, Monkey wouldn't stay still

Ta-Da! There you have a Smock -in-a-pinch!

Princess' smock from IKEA, Monkey's made in a pinch!

When your child finished you can keep it of throw it away...good for parties when you don't want party goers to get covered in any craft scraps/ liquids.

Painting a Train in Thomas blue

So I have been busy lately....and enjoying my kiddies and the Summer!!!!

2011-07-11T12:09:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone!
I hope that you are having a wonderful summer! I know we are here in Ontario. Although we have had our share of nasty humidity like today and storms...the weather has been wonderful.
I have been busy with the kiddies as of late, enjoying one of their birthdays gifts that they received from their Auntie J and Uncle S.

http://www.littletikes.com/toys/jump-double-slide-bouncer.aspx

The kiddies received this Jump n' Double Slide Bouncer Playground and thoroughly enjoy every minute in it. One great thing is it fits under out sun shade with a little room left over for Mama to sit and supervise. It is a Little Tikes product and I have nothing bad to say about it. It helps the kiddies sleep better at night as they wear them selves out having a blast.

Monkey and Princess have a cool off with the Sprinkler

We also have had picnics and played in the sprinkler. We set off fireworks for Canada Day celebrations. And we are working on a list of things to do for the summer. I have made a promise to Grampie, my father, to make sure the kiddies get outside as much as they can to make the most of the great weather and let them enjoy the summer months. And they seem to be enjoying it immensely.
On the other end of it I have been busy doing little things...here are a few pictures:

I also have a 4th birthday party I am planning and a about 3-4 tutorials in the works for you my wonderful readers. Monkey also finally moved into his own room this past long weekend...pictures will come soon as soon as the final touches are added to everything. Let's just say it is going to be a movie inspired "Dad-Gum" room! Princess has been registered for JK as well. I have been going through a number of milestones with the kiddies, now you know why I have been spending less time blogging and more time making memories with my family.
Hope you are enjoying yourself as well this summer!

ColorItByNumbers Giveaway Winners!!!

2011-07-02T14:22:00.000-04:00

Winners without further suspense are.....

#1: Animals Color It By Numbers App goes to #10

Emilee said...

I follow.
emileenreynolds@yahoo.com

June 9, 2011 10:44 AM

#2 Vehicles Color It By Numbers App goes to #3

Mama Lusco said...

Like you on FB #2. mamalusco at ortelco dot net

June 6, 2011 11:05 AM

#3 Princess Color It By Numbers App goes to #15

Emilee said...

I follow AM2CW on twitter.

emileenreynolds@yahoo.com

June 9, 2011 10:46 AM

Congratulations ladies, I will be emailing you very soon to let you know you won. Please reply within 24 hours to receive you download code to get you Color It By Numbers Apps.

Ciao,

Mama-Read-To-Me-Mondays #2

2011-06-27T08:26:00.002-04:00

Well, it is time for our second instalment on "Mama-To-Me-Mondays" here at AM2CW. This post will feature a wonderfully fun book by Kyo Maclear and illustrated by Isabelle Arsenault, called "Spork."

Spork by Kyo Maclear, illustrated by Isabelle Arsenault, ISBN: 978-1-55337-736-8, $18.95 CAD, Hard Cover Jacket, 32 pages, 2010, Kids Can Press.

This was a book tells the tale of Spork, he is a utensil who's father was a fork and mother was a spoon. Spork was the result of his parents' love, and a little bit of both. The stories tells of Sporks ongoing struggle to fit into the strict life of the cutlery drawer. For one the spoons think Spork is too pointy and the forks think he is to round. And Spork can never seem to find a place at the table for meal time. But one day something changes in the household and it start to get messy. A "thing" begins to sit at the table and the utensils cannot get properly used by "thing." The strict rules of the cutlery drawer becomes a mess because "thing" does not understand table manners. Spork could come into his own with the "thing" because of his multiuses. A tale told with humour and fun outlook on Spork's ordeal.

This book is geared to ages 3-7 , grades Preschool to 2.

Our Review: Princess found this tale of Spork's strive to fit in very enjoyable, as with each page turn she waited to see if Spork found a place to be "just right." Princess did not like the way Spork was treated by the spoons and forks, and at time throughout the story was saddened by Spork's misfortune of always being left behind while the other cutlery were placed on the table. She light up with jubilation when "Thing" came to the table and Spork's potential and usefulness was realized as he was neither "too round nor too pointy." Upon introducing "thing" to the story, I asked Princess if she knew what "messy thing" could be. All in all this story was great at introducing the idea of tolerance and inclusiveness, as well as individuality. I really enjoyed discussing with Princess why Spork was feeling left out and what made him different from the others. The book was very cute with its illustrations of Spork and the emotions he felt were very well seen in Spork's illustration. It kind of help me look at how I would help Princess realize her potential in individuality. We will be discussing the emotions we feel this week to coincide with our reading of Spork. This is a charming and wonderful book to enjoy this summer.

3 Thumbs up from the Munchkins and this Mama!

Disclaimer: We have received this book reviewed above free of charge from Kids Can Press in exchange for our review. There was no monetary gain made from this book review, no money exchanged hands, only a good read. The opinions and point of view expressed here in this review is that of my own and to some extent the Munchkins. Please feel free to make your own choices.

Hommage to the Maple Leaf...

2011-06-25T20:02:00.004-04:00

Here is another printable for all you patriotic Canadians, or those of you that love Canada, in honour of the 144 years to be celebrated next friday, July 1st.

I also wanted to include the video of the Canadian crooner, singing "The Maple Leaf Forever" with pictures from the 2010 Vancouver Olympics Closing Ceremony and the song can be found on the soundtrack to the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic Games, "Sounds of Vancouver 2010: Closing Ceremony Commemorative Album", it is track #10 (bet you didn't know that each Olympics had their own soundtrack). "The Maple Leaf Forever is a song written by Alexander Muir, shortly after Confederation in 1867. The song is an unofficial anthem to Canada.

source

I have a really cool thing to show you in a day or two so come back.

House of Hepworths Hook Up Thursdays

Canada Day eh?! Printables

2011-06-20T07:58:00.009-04:00

I am working on our Canada Day celebrations coming up in a few weeks... On July 1st, Canada will turn 144 years young. For my Canadian and Canada Loving readers out there in bloggy-land I have created a couple of printables for you. I hope you will hang them with pride and celebrate this great nation of ours.

I hope that you enjoy them.

Happy Canada Day

to all Canadian near and far!

BCD Show and Tell Linky Party!

I {heart} Naptime Sundae Scoop Link Party

House of Hepworths Thursday Hook Up
Ciao for now,

ColorItByNumbers Review and Giveaway! CLOSED

2011-06-19T21:34:00.002-04:00

This is a great giveaway sponsored by ColorItByNumbers. CIBN contacted AM2CW about doing a review of their educationally based applications. These applications offer a series of fascinating colouring books for your computer. The books are for every child, whether they are in love with Princesses, or Vehicles, or Animals, their love for colouring will be satisfied with CIBN. The computer colouring book applications are able to identify the colours with numbers between the colour tubes with number corresponding to the picture. This is a great educational tool helping with the development of not only your child' imagination but they ability to recognize numbers and colours and pictures as well as computer skills.

Each application is individually downloaded and gives you 3 colouring options: colouring by numbers, colouring with favourite colours, and colour to make the picture visible (more pieces to reveal picture). The images are very cute and friendly as well as high-quality. The screen resolution is adaptable as you can also play around with the preset colours to suit your child's interests. There is a on/off feature for the music and sound on the applications. And all the applications are cross-platform for use with PC, MAC, and Linux systems. The applications are also available in multi-languages,

now, you can download a trial version of the application but you will only receive the first 2 pages of the book. The cost for each application is $9.99 and you only have to buy the application you want to use for your child. ColorItByNumbers offers you a 14-day money back guarantee on your purchase.
Our Review: We were given the opportunity to try all three applications out from CIBN. We are using the application on a MAC. What I really liked was the fact that if a wrong colour was chosen the paint tube of the correct number/ colour would jump until you chose it. It was very easy to use and user friendly. Princess loved the "Princess" application while Monkey, still a little to young to know the right way like the animals and vehicles, especially the trains. Princess loved searching for the numbers and finding them then choosing the colours to use for each picture. It was a big hit on too levels, the colouring book applications but also the fact that they were able to use Mama's computer. I thoroughly enjoyed watching Princess identify the numbers and colours, a huge help to gauge her progress in homeschooling. She loved asking me what colour she should choose next and then finding it. We started identifying in numerical order but this soon became a free for all. Princess loved choosing the colours herself the best. I liked the idea that the music and celebrations at the completion of the picture to be its own reward, making Princess feel important. Here are some screen shots from the applications...

GIVEAWAY

I am pleased to announce that ColorItByNumbers has given me 3 applications to giveaway to 3 lucky AM2CW readers, 1 application to each winner.
How to get your chance to win....
Please complete the mandatory entry first, then you may choose to enter the extra entries if you so like. Don't forget to leave you email address in each comment so I can contact you if it is not attached to your profile. Please leave a separate comment for each entry.
Mandatory Entry (one entry per person please)
- Follow me publicly on GFC
Bonus entries
- Like ColorItByNumbers on Facebook
- Follow ColorItByNumbers on Twitter
- Like AM2CW on Facebook (see the sidebar), get 2 entries as a thanks for doing so
- Follow AM2Cw on Twitter (see the sidebar), get 2 entries as a thanks for doing so
- Grab my button and display it on your blog, leave link in comment, get 3 entries as a thank you for doing so
- Blog, tweet, or brag about this giveaway on Facebook, leave link in comment, get 2 entries per method of sharing as a thank you
- Subscribe to my email
- Follow AM2CW on Networked blogs, see the sidebar

There you have it all the chances to win one of 3 applications from ColorItByNumbers.

Good Luck!

Giveaway will run until June 30th

Winners announced on July1st (Canada Day)!

Thanks to Color It By Numbers for the giveaway and the chance to review the applications.

Disclaimer: I did not receive any monetary gain from ColorItByNumbers, only the applications, of which there were 3 to review. The opinion expressed here in this post is that of mine and you are free to make your own opinion of the company and its products.

Ciao for now,

Father's Day FREE Printable!!!

2011-06-16T01:35:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,
I have created a free printable in honour of Father's Day coming up in the next few weeks! I love my Dad and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of my time I recently spent with him and my Mom, last month! My hubby, Mr. Man, is the best father to the kiddies and will be showered with loads of love Father's Day!!!

Here is my Father's Day printable...

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY to my hubby and my Dad and to all of the father's out there!!!

Ciao for now,

39 Dollar Glasses Winner....sorry for the wait!!!

2011-06-15T09:56:00.000-04:00

Before I announce the winner of the 39DollarGlasses.com Giveaway Winner, I want to send out a huge thanks to them for allowing me to do this giveaway with you and I hope that many of you took advantage of the discount they offered AM2CW readers.
So without further suspense for you, here is the winner as chosen by Random.org,

and just who is this lucky winner of a pair of glasses or sunglasses valued at $75.00....

#3 is

Kitty said...

I'm also a follower of yours via facebook!

May 3, 2011 4:01 PM

Congratulations Kitty! I will be in contact with you very soon via email. Thank you to all who entered and please check out the other giveaway going on right now until the end of the month.

Ciao for now,

It's Flip Flop Exchange time!!!

2011-06-08T21:16:00.000-04:00

Last summer, I, along with Princess, participated in Becca at The Texas Darlings Flip Flop Exchange and had a blast doing so. So I received an email about the Take 3 version of the Flip Flop Exchange and if I would like to participate again....Absolutely!!! If you love flip flops and would like to give a pair and get a pair then head over to Becca's blog and sign up for the Flip Flop Exchange. I can't wait to receive my partner, already thinking of something fun to do this year.

Ciao for now,

Mama & the Munchkins: Mama-Read-To-Me-Monday #1!

2011-06-06T21:59:00.001-04:00

Welcome Everyone to AM2CW newest feature "Mama-Read-To-Me-Monday" with the Munchkins. It will be a regular feature and sponsored by Kids Can Press on A Mama's Two Cents Worth..., on the first and last Monday of the month. I decided that this would help show you the books for our summer reading. The books will cover ages from birth and up, covering the Juvenile readership, so that Monkey and Princess can tell you what they thought of the books. Some of the features could include a series or an individual book.
I will include the ISBN of each book featured here. I hope you will enjoy the reviews as much as we enjoy the reading process. I chose to start a regular feature showcasing books to help promote the importance of reading to your child and having your child involved in reading no matter what the age. Without books we would never learn the importance of the written word.
Our rating system for our reviews will be based on 3 thumbs up (highest value) to no thumbs up (lowest value). I began reading to my kiddies in vitro, and continue to pick up a book or encourage them to pick up a book and read with them.

Today, we are reading a board book series, called Learning with Animals by Melanie Watt. It is a 5 book series, enabling them to discovery over 60 animals in these colourful concept board books. The series of concept books are geared toward the little ones ages 1 - 4.
This series includes Shapes with Ocean Animals (ISBN: 1-55337-833-4), The Alphabet with Wild Animals (ISBN: 978-1-55337-829-1), Numbers with Farm Animals (ISBN: 978-1-55337-831-0), Colors with Tropical Animals (ISBN: 1-55337-830-X), Opposites with Polar Animals (ISBN: 1-55337-832-6). Each book has a curriculum connection that varies from Visual Arts to Math to Language development to Skills & Strategies. On the Kids Can Press site there are stickers available for parents to print off and use to coincide with the book series feature some of the animals from the books. At the parents discretion the stickers can be used as part of incentives, rewards or in a matching game.

With young children's facination with animals, these books offer a method of incorporating the animals in the learning process via various different settings, whether it be the ocean, the jungle, the farm or the polar settings; they all create a point of interest for many children full of bright colours. Whether we were delving into the tropics to check out the colours or counting the animals on the farm. The eye-catching colour and artistry got the Munchkins interest from start to finish of each book. Princess enjoyed the series quite thoroughly as did Monkey. I even made the book, Numbers with Farm Animals, into a song per say engaging their interest and asked to perform the song over and over again. Princess was asked to count the animals on each page to see if she could recognize the number. monkey was asked to identify the animals as well as the sound associated with each animal on the pages. We also would make the sounds of the animals for the number of them found on each page. This was the most fun for us because we had to combine the concepts. I would have to say that this was the favourite all because of the activities we were able to create to go along with it. monkey also really loved the Shapes with Ocean Animals book, because I would ask him to identify the shape in both pointing as well as by words. The book, Opposites with Polar Animals, was the biggest challenge for Princess because we are still talking about the opposites right now so it is a work in progress. Using this book also we were able to discuss some things such as camouflage as well as animal identification. The Colors with Tropical Animals, was fun for both Monkey and Princess on varying levels. Princess could identify all the colours while Monkey was just learning his colours. Very colourful book in the series featuring the tropical animals so widely from the Toucan to the snakes. Finally, the Alphabet with Wild Animals, 26 animals from around the world and some even unknown to me. We made a song game out of it where we focused on the phonics of the letters as we said each animal associated with the letters of the alphabet. Princess had fun and learned about a few animals, as did Mama. Monkey just like to sing the alphabet and tried to name the animals he was familiar with.

All in all, we give this series of concept board books, Learning with Animals, 3 thumbs up for their well-researched topics, colourful and eye-catching imagery as well as the ability to bring learning more prevalently on in the various levels for the age groups they encompassed.
**Melanie Watt, is the Author and Illustrator of the Learning with Animals Concept Board Book Series.
This board book series is a great addition to our library and will be read repetitively I am sure over the next few years as Princess and Monkey grow.

We hope you enjoyed our book review and look into the series as a chance it becoming apart of your summer reading.
Please come back and check out the activities we incorporated into our days in association with this book series over the next couple weeks.
See you on the last Monday of the month for our next instalment of "Mama-Read-To-Me-Monday".

Disclaimer: We have recieved the books reviewed above free of charge from Kids Can Press in exchange for our review. There was no monetary gain made from this book review, no money changed hands. The opinions and point of view expressed here in this review is that of my own and to some extent the Munchkins. Please feel free to make your own choices.

Ciao for now,

& the Munchkins

39DollarGlasses.com Review and Giveaway!!! I said what????

2011-06-04T08:50:00.001-04:00

Happy May Everyone!!! I hope your beginning has started off to a wonderful month. This month I will doing a great deal of celebrating...Mother's Day, My parent's 39th Wedding Anniversary, and My baby sister's Wedding!!!! Oh and I will be spending 3 weeks visiting my family and helping out my baby sis back home in New Brunswick! This is such an exciting time but I will be 10 days without the hubby around to help, hopefully we don't drive my parents crazy...my dad says it will bring some excitement to their house (okay, dad lets just see how you feel after week 1). While I am there visiting and helping out my sister...I will be also posting some of our crafting adventures and maybe some pictures of the kids and the celebration! I have some great ones on the way once I get there! Promised to give you a peek at their wedding invite and how they put it together as well. So for all you engaged folks out there come back in a week to see. It is a cost effective way and fun too!

Well, I am here to open up the surprise I have been keeping under wraps for about 2 weeks now. It is a doozy of a review and giveaway.

I was approach last month by 39DollarGlasses.com in which I was offered a free pair of glasses (or sunglasses). So I jumped at the opportunity to check out some very much needed new specks as well as the chance to have one of AM2CW readers to get something out of it too! So I placed my order on their website and found it was very user friendly. I set up my account, then plugged in my prescription. I also had to get the measurement between my eyes...Mr. Man helped me with that. Then shopped for my frames from a wide variety of choices. I narrowed it down to 2.

Sofia- Plastic frames

Vicky- plastic frames

When you click on the frames you have the option of looking at frame colour choices as well as the opportunity to print out the paper version of the glasses to try them on your face. The Website also has the different shaped faces with the glasses on so you can browse through to find your face shape and see the glasses on someone too. So i printed off the glasses and tried them on and came to a conclusion (see which ones I chose at the bottom of the post).

Chipmunk frame- Pink (kids)

Now a little detail about 39DollarGlasses.com, itself. They are a company which is owned and operated by 2 eye doctors. They are totally AMERICAN made (all others get their glasses made in china) so our quality control is superior to all others glasses out there on the market. They ensure a fast turn around time and (if you have an emergency) they do offer next day glasses for a little extra fee. This is the great kicker out of 39Dollarglasses.com and what made me really want to promote them on my blog is the fact that they ship FREE to all of our active service men and women no matter where they are serving! This is a great thing that they do in my opinion because they see the value of sacrifices made by these individuals and take pride in their service.
Also I love that they have a great kid glasses policy, for all parents out there that I know

Princess frame- Pink (kids)

when my baby sister was in sports during high school my parents had to repair and/or replace her glasses frequently because they don't stand up to what kids can put them through. 39DollarGlasses.com, they make kids' glasses to last. They have poly carbonate lenses with UV protection and scratch resistant coverings STANDARD on ALL kids glasses. Because Poly Carbonate lenses are the #1 doctor recommended lens by ALL eye doctors. And since the owners are both eye doctors (and fathers themselves) they know the importance of protecting children's eyes.

When you look at all other eyeglass companies make you pay for this protection and if you don't think of asking for it you are putting your child's eyes at risk. The people at 39DG is NOT willing to allow any child have anything less than shatter proof glasses.
EVERYTHING (kids and adults) is made here in the USA. Our quality and durability standards are superior. The company also understand that children can be finicky when wanting a style of glasses. And thus provide a huge selection of stylish frames to make most kids happy!

Now when you order , either for your self or your kids, they have prices that start at $39.00, and included with EVERY $39.00+ order:

Light & Thin Prescription Lenses
100% UV Protection
Tough Scratch-resistant coatings
Ultra-soft Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
Stylish Hard Case
100% Quality Guarantee
Knowledgeable Customer Support

Dino frame- light blue (kids)

Next-Day Delivery Available (fees apply)

On the main page or landing page of 39DollarGlasses.com, you will find them showing the best seller frames, as well as easy to maneuver tabs for the glasses, sunglasses, what's new?, FAQs, Order tracking. Also you will find some basic questions on ordering glasses online at the bottom of the home page, along with the latest news in the area of eye care.

Honestly, when first approached about ordering eye glasses online I was a little hesitant but after researching the internet for reviews on 39DollarGlasses.com, I came to the conclusion that they knew what they were doing.

Also, they have a "worry free guarantee", which states

100% Worry Free Guarantee

At 39dollarglasses.com, we offer a 100% Worry-Free Guarantee. Our objective is simple: to make sure every customer has a wonderful experience purchasing from us. If you are unhappy for ANY REASON you may return your eyeglasses for a full refund (less shipping) or one-time exchange at no cost. (Exchanges for higher-priced items will only be charged for the difference in price). We even provide FREE return shipping! Simply follow the following instructions:

1. Contact us by phone, live chat, or email within 10 days of receiving your eyeglasses. We will happily provide you a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number along with a postage pre-paid return label (domestic First-Class U.S. Mail only). We cannot process or honor returns without an RMA number.

2. Shipping charges cannot be refunded.

3. Return package must be received within 30 days of original delivery date. Refunds can only be issued after we have received the original merchandise back.

4. Returned items must be in original condition in the hard case you received from us. However you may keep any accessories as our free gift.

And thus, with all of this information, I felt very comfortable putting my eye care in their hands.

My Review: The glasses were very lightweight and arrived in a case, inside a microfibre bag. Also in the envelope was a screwdriver keychain for ensuring the glasses always fit properly and a cleaning cloth. The time it took to get my order was about a week, but remember I live in Canada so customs could have played a part here as well. I was able to easily track my order online. The quality of the frames is very high as well as the fit was better than I expected. They fit perfectly in fact. I was very happy with my choice, for not having physically seen it on my face other than the paper version. I am in all honesty giving 39DollarGlasses.com rave reviews and 2 thumbs up (if I had more hands I would give them more thumbs up). I would definitely recommend this means of purchasing eye glasses to friends and family. One confusing step in the ordering, was the tint but I emailed the contact from 39DG and he quickly responded and clarified the misstep on my part and everything went smoothly. A great bonus to ordering with 39DG, is that they have rewards program where when you place your order 4% of your purchase goes back into your account for future purchases, either by yourself or transfer it to someone else. It is automatic inclusion in the program when you sign up for an account. What a great feature to be able to use a credit for another order. I also love the names of the frames, for the adults the frames are cities around the world (best seller is Vancouver) and for children the frames are things associated with kids (Dino, Lagoom, Princess, Panda, etc).

39DollarGlasses.com is offering all AM2CW readers a

10% off discount on your orders.

Code is: Z13X2B

Also right now 39DG is celebrating 11 years online and offering discount of 15% off your order using the code: 11Years.***

***CANNOT combine offers so you can choose which offer you would like to use. (The 11 year celebration code will only be around for a short time. Please be advised of this!)

Now the biggest surprise, if you stuck out this post to find out about it.....

is offering one lucky AM2CW...

one pair of prescription glasses or sunglasses (up to $75.00).

How do you win??

Mandatory Entries (MUST complete to be qualified)
***Leave separate comment for each entry*** Also a means to contact you in the comments.
1.The only thing we ask is that they friend 39DollarGlasses.com Facebook page. Leaving a comment on their page, telling them "@A Mama's Two Cents Worth sent you"
2. Be a follower on GFC, new or old of AM2CW, comment on your following.
Bonus entries:
3. Blog, Twitter or Facebook about this giveaway- 1 entry each
4. Follow AM2CW via Twitter or Facebook (see buttons on sidebar to do so, or if you already do either of these comment separately on each you do) - 1 entry each

And that's it as far as ways to enter this wonderful giveaway!!!

There is a location limitation on the Giveaway, which is

that it is open to US and Canada only.

(Sorry to my International followers)

Giveaway will run until ~~May 31st~~ June 13th at 11:59 EST

Winner will be announced ~~June 1st~~ June 14th!!!

I want to take this time to thank 39DollarGlasses.com for graciously offering this giveaway to my readers!

Oh, and here is the glasses I chose...

Vicky frame in Brown
*I will post pics when I have my camera charged sorry for not doing so.

Disclaimer: I have received a free pari of glasses from 39DollarGlasses.com in exchange for my review. The opinions expresses here are strictly that of my own and you are subject to making up your own opinion on this company. There was no exchange of monetary amounts of any kind between myself and 39DollarGlasses.com.

Ciao for now,

39DollarGlasses.com Giveaway extended for two more weeks....

2011-05-30T11:28:00.000-04:00

I have decided that due to the low entries on the giveaway sponsored by

will be extended for two more weeks......

Giveaway will run until June 13th with Winner announced on June 14th!

Please take advantage of the discount that can be found here at the original post about the giveaway if you are not the winner!

So go and enter yourself in the last two weeks of the giveaway to win a

pair of FREE prescription glasses or sunglasses (valued at $75.00) or if you don't need a glasses but know someone who does give the winnings to them!!!!

Thanks to

Ciao for now,

Just Touching Base

2011-05-16T21:16:00.000-04:00

Just touching base with all my readers, I am so sorry for not having posted anything for over a week and a half. It is a busy time here. My baby sister's wedding prep is in full swing. The wedding happens in four days so we have been busy.
The family made the 16+ hour drive Form Ontario to New Brunswick in one piece. I can't say enough about how much the portable DVD player has saved our sanity on this trip. Gotta love the fact that the kiddies were able to enjoy their movies and see the sights. We I did get my fair share of Thomas the Tank Engine though...Monkey's fave. We have enjoyed our trip so far but it has gotta stop raining...I mean really stop! The kids have been stuck inside for a little over 4 days and enough is enough. Grampie did manage to take them out for a rain boot puddle jumping activity...enjoyed by all while going on but as soon as it was over Princess said it wasn't any fun because she was wet. They splashed and enjoyed the rain water drips on their coats from the edge of the house. Then they enjoyed a nice warm bath and some toast before bed.
I have to thank my mom she has been my saving grace with kids. The first night we struggled with Monkey's bedtime. Since the second night, Nana (as we know her) has been bathing the kids then giving them a snack, and Princess is in bed by 8pm and Monkey goes in their room and one of us sits on the floor by the door and waits for him to fall asleep....which has gone from taking 20 minutes to 5-7 minutes. This gives me much needed relaxation time and wedding prep time.
Gotta love the experience of grandparents!!!!

I have a tutorial coming up soon for my baby sis' wedding invite!!
Ciao for now,

New Features Coming Soon!!!

2011-05-04T13:28:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone,
I just wanted to let you all know that in the coming weeks I will bring you a new feature here at AM2CW. We will be reviewing books that could possibly make it to your Summer Reading list for your kids. The "Mama-Read-To-Me-Monday" feature posts will give you the run down of the book we reviewed, as well as what we (Mama and the Munchkins) thought of the book. We will be using our rating scale of 1-6 thumbs, based on 3 of us and 2 thumbs each. Also we will be including an activity that will be associated with that book or series of books in the weeks in between the next book review. The activities may involve printables, crafts or physical activities that will be inspired by the book or series we read.
On that note: the "Mama-Read-To-Me-Mondays" and AM2CW has a new sponsor, Kids Can Press Canada, has become our sponsor, providing us with books to review. So look for their button or banner arriving soon to the left sidebar.
So please check them out...they are located in both Canada and the U.S. And be kind and check them out on Facebook. You are also able to sign up for their newsletter on their website. You will know Kids Can Press from the Franklin the Turtle series by Paulette Bourgeois, illustrated by Brenda Clark as well as Scaredy Squirrel series by Melanie Watt.
***Here's a little highlight on the Franklin books, it is celebrating 25 years in 2011 as well as the writer, Paulette Bourgeois and illustrator, Brenda Clark, are up for nomination on the Canada Walk of Fame. Did you know there are now over 30 book in the Franklin series?

So stay tuned to AM2CW over the next couple weeks, as we get our biggest jump into blogging, with the "Mama-Read-To-Me-Monday" taking off.

Ciao for now,

Free Mom's Day Printable to finish of the Celebrations of 1 year!!!

2011-04-28T09:30:00.000-04:00

I want to thank each an everyone of your for sticking with me this last year. If you are new to the blog I hope you will hang out and drop in for a looksy every once and a while. Thank you too!
To cap off the wonderful last 2 weeks of celebrations of my first year I just wanted to pass on my printable I create in honour of moms everywhere. I hope you will enjoy it and hang it or pass it on to you mom in the form of a card or even print it out for your kids to wear proudly this Mother's Day!

http://www.4shared.com/photo/

KEPk5C-f/SuperMom_sign.html

http://www.4shared.com/photo/

uiJsCFGU/Mom_Print_8X10.html

Sorry still having problems with 4shared.com so just click the link below the picture. I hope you enjoy them! Happy Mother's Day!

Ciao for now,

Word World DVD Review: Get Up and Move

2011-04-28T09:24:00.017-04:00

The creators of Word World are at it again....go to their Facebook page and enter the sweepstakes that end May 2nd (U.S. only). So hurry on over you only have a few days left to enter.

We just received a copy Word World DVD: Get Up and Move

Product Details
Actors: WordFriends
Directors: WordWorld
Format: Animated, Color, DVD, NTSC
Language: English
Region: Region 1
Aspect Ratio: 1.33:1
Number of discs: 1
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: NCircle Entertainment
DVD Release Date: February 1, 2011
Run Time: 60 minutes

It is the latest release from the creators of Word World. It features all out Word World friends, duck , sheep, bear, frog, dog, pig and ant. There are 4 episodes, totally 60 minutes of viewing time. The episodes are:
Sheep's First Bike Ride: Bear and Sheep learn to build the word bike but it takes some perseverance for Sheep to learn how to ride this new WordThing!
Duck at Bat: Duck loses the letter B from his baseball bat jut before the big game. He tries to build other words to hit the ball - Mat, Hat - but it's going to take a B to hit a homerun!
Dog's Having a Party!: Dog and Duck want to throw a party at Dog's house. With the help of Sheep, they learn that H is the perfect party letter! They can make hotdogs, hats, horns and hula hoops. Hurray!
Think in the Rink: Duck and Dog want to join Sheep and Frog in their ice skating show, but the enthusiastic duo gets carried away and breaks the ice skating rink. Will the WordFriends think up a good solution to the problem before the show begins?

My Review: The DVD went in the player as soon as we returned from the mailbox. It was like Christmas for my kiddies all over again. Princess and Monkey sat through the entire program and even sang along to the theme song. It was very educational from the opening to the end. As usual there was no disappointment from the Word World friends to entertain with songs and rhymes and learning. The first episode started with a new word-thing and the friends Sheep and Bear teaching the concept of keep trying at things in order to become familiar with them, spelling, word composition and learning to ride a bike. The second episode discuss word family "-at" and how one letter can make a difference. The third episode teaches how one letter (H) can create many different words to have fun. The final episode is about using your brain to solve a problem. I really enjoy watching Word World and how a parent can use it as part of the learning process for phonetics, letter recognition and word building with word families all wrapped up in an entertaining little world where words come alive in front of your children's eyes. The creators, I must say, amaze me that it was never thought of while I was growing up. We give "Get Up and Move" 3 thumbs up out of 3 thumbs (our rating system for this review). Well done Word World!!!!

Very much a DVD well worth purchasing for your children, it truly entertains!

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this DVD from Word World in exchange for my review. The review is purely the expression of my opinion and you can make up your own thoughts on the product.

Ciao for now,

Upcycling a Tee into Jewelry & Giveaway!!!!- closed

2011-04-27T19:05:00.000-04:00

So I tried to think of a tutorial that would suit the first week of celebrating the past year of me blogging. With all the the crafty people out there in blog land, I was at a stand still...then I thought back to the first gift I made as a crafter for my sister 2 years ago just before I decided to start my blog.

I made her a necklace from a t-shirt...I know there are lots and lots of tutorials out there but I have come up with one of my own.

Materials needed:
t-shirt
scissors/ rotary cutter & cutting mat
hot glue & gluesticks
thread and needle
sewing machine
felt scraps for making rolled flowers

So now let's get started now that you have your materials....

1. Laying your shirt out flat in the cutting mat, cut off the bottom seam
2. Now I cut from the bottom upwards, at about 2" strips. Keep cutting until just below the arms of the tee.

3. Now you have strips of tee, if there was a seam in the sides if the tee, cut it out. The next thing you are going to do is take a strip and give it a pull and cause the strips to curl up on themselves. Keep doing this with all the strips until you have as many as you want it to be thin or thick necklace.

4. Now you can just wear the strips like this but I embellished them, if they had no side seams. If there was a side seam or two on the tee (which mine had one side seam), I took on strip and cut of the seam as you see above. Then I laid them on top of each other shortest to longest then used my needle and thread to sew the ends together.

5. Once the strips were sewn together I wanted to cover the ends so I took one strip and starting in the middle and working out to one side then back across I covered the ends. I tuck the end in between using a crochet hook and put a dab of glue on to secure it.

That is it for making the necklace. Only thing I would suggest is to maybe twist one end of the necklace before sewing the ends together for a little bit more flare.

Now for the embellishments....Sometimes I use the bottom seam you cut off but for this one I took some felt scrap and a left over strip and made a few rolled roses and a large petal flower..... Then I hot glued them directly onto the area I wrapped to cover the ends, next time I would make a pin or something to clip onto the area so if you want to change up the embellishments you could.

There you have it my tutorial for an Upcycling t-shirt necklace.

Now would you like to have it for your very own????
If you said yes, then please leave a comment below saying you are a new follower or been following all along. I will draw for the necklace on April 25th (giveaway closes April 24th at 11:59 pm EST)!
***One comment per person please!****

Good Luck and enjoy making some t-shirt necklaces for yourself or as gifts!!
I also made bracelets using the same idea.

Ciao for now,

Some FUN-ucational ideas...

2011-04-27T11:00:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone... I hope you all are enjoying the Blog-versary giveaways and are entering them all so you get a chance to win some great items. There are a few more coming up next week as we come to a close for the celebrations, so come back and check them out.

Today, I just wanted to show you some little things I have been working on lately. The family will be going back East in May for my baby sis's wedding...we will be staying for almost an entire month!!!! So we will be driving down and the thought of spending 16 hours or more with the kids in their car seats I have been trying yo come up with things for them to do to keep them from getting cranky and sick of being strapped in outside of the stops and refuelling. We have our portable DVD player which is always handy but who wants to watch movies for 16 hours...not me. So I thought of some FUN-udcational things they could do.
Monkey has become quite the little learner lately. Taking after Princess during her homeschooling periods. I had some shape and colour lapbooks I created out of inspiration from wonderful sites out there. And after showing him a couple of times he was able to correctly match them all.
I have been like a pack-rat every time I go to the local home reno stores, gathering paint chips left and right...doesn't feel like stealing to you??? I know I always feel like I am stealing but when Mr. Man asks what I am going to do with my paint chip stash, I always reply "make stuff, of course." So I used the Snail Trail tutorial for creating word families and made up our version. I actually added more word families, while I was working on them so we could discuss them as Princess learns the primary ones first (-at, -og,-it,-an,-ox, -un, etc). Then I had some of the Disney Behr ones from HD, and was wondering what to do with them other than create a matching colour game.. and came up with this....

One from Monkey and One for Princess, of course to cut down on squabbles.

So I took the paint chip and removed the shapes off the top (did you know ~~they~~ most were easily peeled off (you'll see why I say most)

here it is peeled off

see why I said most...black was the very difficult to peel off, had to take scissors and trim around to clean it up

Ta-da!!! All peeled off

Then Ijust glued them around a piece of card stock, laminated the card stock and the second set of matching, picked up pack of hook and loops at the dollar store and stuck on top of the laminated version and back of the second set and it is good to go.

Finished Colour Matching Travel Game!

So I say "ha-ha" to Mr. Man who didn't think I would every use the paint chip stash for anything!

Other Paint Chip things in the works:
shape paint chip matching travel game
paint chip matchbooks and journals

Monkey's Easter Egg Matching colour Game (using paint chips and colourful plastic easter eggs) he
matches the egg colour to the paint chip colour.
Easter Bunny Garland (an idea I got from a blog but cannot find the link to give it too you, if you know it can you put it in the comments. Sorry to the blogger, I usually bookmark these). [Pics to follow]

Ciao for now,

RAKJ Patterns Giveaway!-closed

2011-04-18T09:00:00.005-04:00

RAKJ Patterns has so graciously offered to help celebrate my blog-iversary by hosting a giveaway of her wonderful patterns. Kristi is the creative lady behind RAKJ Patterns Etsy shop. She sells patterns to crochet, as well as has put together a tutorial to teach you how to crochet. Kristi is a sahm with 4 children, who loves to create and share what she makes. She has a self-proclaimed addiction to crocheting and yarn hoarding... (I too, am a yarn hoarder [I stand before you, with my left hand in the air and my right hand on my heart] as well and my hubby is always inspecting and analyzing my craft purchases, especially when he sneaks a peak and sees yarn in the bottom of my bag.)

so let's get to the giveaway...

Giveaway

Kristi is giving away 3 crochet patterns form RAKJ Patterns shop to one lucky AM2CW reader.
Mandatory entries

*Please leave a separate comment for each entry.
1. Check out RAKJ Patterns and come back and tell me what you favourite 3 patterns are (1 entry)
2. Follow AM2CW, already do remind me (2 entries)
3. "LIKE" RAKJ Patterns on Facebook (2 entries)
4. Make or have you made a purchase from RAKJ Patterns in the last week, please send me your invoice and you will get 5 entries.
.........................................................................That's it for entries!

Look at this hat...isn't it just precious!

Good Luck to all who enter!

Giveaway ends April24th

Winner announced April 25th!

Huge thanks to Kristi and

for this giveaway!

What party is a party without a cupcake hat!

Ciao for now,

Baby Beenos Gift Certificate Giveaway & Review- closed

2011-04-15T09:10:00.020-04:00

This is another wonderful opportunity to win a gift certificate from Baby Beenos Etsy Shop. Marni, the mompreneur behind Baby Beenos, is graciously offering one reader of AM2CW a $25 Gift Certificate to her shop. You all remember Marni and Baby Beenos from the post HERE. Well, she also was gracious enough to send my way a beautiful dress for Princess and I to review.
Review: We received the Juliette Dress. Princess loved the dress and I loved the design. It is very cute . I love that the flower is removable. The flare in the arms reminds me of the medieval times and how Princesses dressed. The pattern is kind of a pink and chocolate damask. The elasticized neck made it modest while being stylish. We love Baby Beenos and can't get enough of her shop treasures.
Did you know that Marni also has a pattern for sale of the items she makes on Etsy...if you are really crafty and wanna make them yourself? She will be adding the patterns to her shop this month as well as she is getting set to launch babybeenos.com. April is an exciting month for Baby Beenos. Other happenings in the shop is her Ready to Ship items are on sale and she is always adding new items to the shop...requiring you to check back often to see what is new!
Here are a few of her Ready to Ship items

Rio

Rio with Bunny Applique

Hand-crocheted Poncho

Giveaway

Baby Beenos is offering one winner a $25 gift certificate to the shop.
How to be the winner....
*Remember to leave a separate comment for each entry to be included in the draw!
Mandatory Entries:
1. Check out Baby Beenos shop and come back and state you favourite item
2. Follow AM2CW, already do remind me
Bonus entries:
1. Like Baby Beenos on Facebook
2. Add Baby Beenos to your Favourite Etsy shops
3. Tweet about this giveaway (please provide link in comment)
4. Set you Facebook status to blab about this giveaway (please provide link in comment)
5. Blog about this giveaway (please provide me with the link in your comment)
6. Grab the AM2CW button for you blog (link it in the comment)
7. Follow AM2Cw on Facebook or Twitter (links on right sidebar)
8. Leave a blog-iversary comment (2 entries)

10 great chances to be the recipient of this giveaway!!!

****Please remember to leave a separate comment for each entry.****

Good Luck to all who enter!

Thank you to Marni and Baby Beenos for the giveaway!

Here's Princess having fun in her new dress, she just wanted to dance and be a "Princess"

Giveaway ends April 24th

Winner announced April 25th

Ciao for now,

Hattrick Designs Giveaway- closed

2011-04-13T09:10:00.004-04:00

Today, the giveaway is hosted by Hattrick Design. Hattrick Design, is the creative outlet for a SAHM to triplets...ALL BOYS, named Stacey. Stacey is one busy momma, spending her days playing, chasing, and laughing, and during their naps brainstorming her next party! Her love for her family, friends, and ANYTHING party related! Stacey also LOVES to do custom work for people's parties! Hattrick Design, I am assuming has gotten its name from the proverbial "Hattrick" (triplets) in relation to hockey loving parents! I love it!!!!! And from the look of her blog, I Wish I Was Martha, she is crafty and has yummy looking recipes! I especially like the Snicker Brownies and the Creme Egg Cupcakes! You seriously need to check her out! And you will find that she also has some free printables on there as well.

Snicker Brownies (Yummmmmy!)

Creme Egg Cupcakes (looks yummy)

Here are a few of her creations! She is so creative...where does she find the time! It leads me to think to myself "does this woman ever sleep?"

8X10 Print

8X10 Alphabet Soup Print

Dr. Seuss Cat In the Hat Birthday Invite

Ladybug Birthday Banner

Save the date

GIVEAWAY

is giveaway to one winner any print in her shop and it is open to anyone in the world!

So how do you enter this giveaway...

*Please remember the one and only rule, leave a separate comment for each entry to be counted and the mandatory one is a must!!!

MANDATORY ENTRIES:

1. Check out Hattrick Design, come back and leave a comment as to your favourite in the shop

2. Follow AM2CW, already do remind me (get 5 bonus entries on top of the mandatory 1= 6 entries)

3. Follow Stacey's blog, I Wish I Was Martha (get 2 bonus entries on top of the mandatory 1 = 3 entries)

BONS ENTRIES:

1. Grab the AM2CW button, leave a link in the comment

2. Tweet, Facebook or Blog about this giveaway, leaving a link in comment (get 3 entries for each)

There are all you possibilities to win this great prize!!!

Also as an added bonus, like things couldn't get any better right, Hattrick Design is giving you, as AM2CW readers and followers, a discount in her shop for 50% off any prints orders you make from date of posting to the last day of this giveaway. Just enter the code FIFTY once you place your order, note to seller I believe unless there is a spot for the code when you order. Is that not a nice thing to offer all of you!!! Please do take advantage of her special offer...I know I will be doing so for sure on a few things in her shop.

Girl Birth Announcement

Giveaway ends April 24th (as does the 50% off discount)!!!

Winner announced April 25th!

Huge thank you to Stacey at

for the giveaway!

Please show her some love...

Ciao for now,

A Mama's Two Cents Worth...While They Are Napping

A 500+ Fan Celebration for my shop, Little PINK Thread, on Facebook

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Read-to-Me-Mama- Mondays #5

Read to Me Mama Mondays #4

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Read-To-Me-Mama Mondays #3

Lovable Labels Winner and a couple of Halloween inspirations from my Crochet Addiction....

EcoMom Products Review

EXTENDED---- In Honour of Princess B's first Month of JK----Lovable Labels Giveaway!!!!

Scholastic Books Review

Crazy Socks Crochet Crochet-Along!!!

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Strawberry Shortcake Bingo Freebie

My Learning to Read Series- Part 1

Blog Flip Flop Exchange 3 Update!

Art Smock in a pinch tutorial

So I have been busy lately....and enjoying my kiddies and the Summer!!!!

ColorItByNumbers Giveaway Winners!!!

Mama-Read-To-Me-Mondays #2

Hommage to the Maple Leaf...

Canada Day eh?! Printables

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Father's Day FREE Printable!!!

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It's Flip Flop Exchange time!!!

Mama & the Munchkins: Mama-Read-To-Me-Monday #1!

39DollarGlasses.com Review and Giveaway!!! I said what????

39DollarGlasses.com Giveaway extended for two more weeks....

Just Touching Base

New Features Coming Soon!!!

Free Mom's Day Printable to finish of the Celebrations of 1 year!!!

Word World DVD Review: Get Up and Move

Product DetailsActors: WordFriendsDirectors: WordWorldFormat: Animated, Color, DVD, NTSCLanguage: EnglishRegion: Region 1 Aspect Ratio: 1.33:1Number of discs: 1Rated: NR (Not Rated)Studio: NCircle EntertainmentDVD Release Date: February 1, 2011Run Time: 60 minutes

Product Details

Upcycling a Tee into Jewelry & Giveaway!!!!- closed

Some FUN-ucational ideas...

RAKJ Patterns Giveaway!-closed

Baby Beenos Gift Certificate Giveaway & Review- closed

Hattrick Designs Giveaway- closed

Product Details
Actors: WordFriends
Directors: WordWorld
Format: Animated, Color, DVD, NTSC
Language: English
Region: Region 1
Aspect Ratio: 1.33:1
Number of discs: 1
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: NCircle Entertainment
DVD Release Date: February 1, 2011
Run Time: 60 minutes