Dad of Divas' Reviews: May 2011

Sunday, May 29, 2011

DVD Review - Transformers: Beast Wars - Season One

About the DVD
Brace yourself to relive some of the most epic TRANSFORMERS battles and non-stop action adventures through the 15th Anniversary release of BEAST WARS. In 1996, TRANSFORMERS fans were introduced to this stunning saga between the heroic MAXIMALS and the evil PREDACONS wherethese powerful TRANSFORMERS disguised themselves as some of the fiercest and most ferocious animals on Earth. In a flash of an instant, these beasts turned into battle-tested robot warriors ready for combat. Created by Hasbro and produced by Mainframe Entertainment, the hugely successful animated series TRANSFORMERS: BEAST WARS ran for three successful television seasons and garnered an Emmy® Award for Outstanding Individual Achievement in Animation.

On June 7, 2011, Shout! Factory, in collaboration with Hasbro, Inc., will unleash theTRANSFORMERS: BEAST WARS Season One 4-DVD set, featuring all 26 visually stunning episodes and exciting bonus features. A must-have for fans and families, this DVD set promises to keep you on the edge of your seat with exciting adventures and is priced to own at $29.93 SRP.

Die-hard fans further rejoice! Shout! Factory, along with Hasbro, Inc., are set to release theTRANSFORMERS: BEAST WARS – The Complete Series Collector’s Edition 8-DVD box set. Jam packed with hours of entertaining content, this Complete Series Collector’s Edition contains the entire CG animated series of BEAST WARSand a bounty of stellar extras, including retrospective featurettes, a 12-page book, art galleries, plus a special collectible 24-page comic book TRANSFORMERS Timelines “Dawn of the Future’s Past.” Originally published by Fun Publications for BotCon, the official TRANSFORMERS convention, in 2006, the comic book is the official prequel story leading right up to the start of Beast Wars and offers valuable insight into all the events that led to OPTIMUS PRIMAL chasing after MEGATRON and PREDACONS! TRANSFORMERS: BEAST WARS – The Complete Series Collector’s Edition arrives exclusively to Shout! Factory’s official online store ShoutFactoryStore.com on June 7, 2011. Pre-order begins now!

As excitement builds for these home entertainment releases, Shout! Factory will announce additional activities for fans in the incoming months.

TRANSFORMERS: BEAST WARS Season One 4-DVD set

Synopsis:

When the descendants of the treacherous Decepticons — now known as PREDACONS — land on a mysterious planet in search of a powerful fuel known as Energon, it’s up to Optimus Primal and the heroic Maximals to stop them before they conquer the universe!

Bonus Features Include:

Maximize! Creating A New Breed of TRANSFORMER

Art gallery

Original character models

Technical Information

Street Date: June 7, 2011

Not Rated: For all audiences

Suggested Retail Price: $29.93

4-DVD

Aspect Ratio: 4:3

English, stereo

My Take on the DVD
Transformers was a series that I watched when I was a kid (circa-1980's) and this Beast Wars series was a great add on to the series that added much to the Transformer brand.

The series has great writing and the animation was was developed too. What was nice about this set was that all 26 episodes were provided to the viewer. With the fact that this series build off each episode, this was important!

The bonus feature on this were also fun. I particularly enjoyed the part about building a new breed of Transformers. It was interesting to watchand see how this all was conceptualized and developed!

If you are a transformers fan, you will love this series, trust me!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Better Than Ever, Again

About the Book
Who hasn't dreamt of sailing in the South Pacific as the owner of a sleek, gleaming yacht? Ben Beck finds that dream job as a crew member sailing on just such a ship. With a history of working 'too good to be true' opportunities, he still can't believe his luck. Sailing excursions in Tahiti for a year then sell the yacht and get a nice chunk of the proceeds. The ad said, "No Sailing Experience Necessary" and he had the qualifications. His fellow group members include Carl, the millionaire boss, Duane, a hard-to-please captain, Purrette, a serious beauty and Rudy, a potential danger. After a confusing start of mis-information, Ben isn't sure of exactly what he's gotten himself into. How many partners does he have? Where exactly are they going? And then there's Tahiti. Can they sail the southern seas without any mishaps? When Ben finds out what's really going on, can he save the dream?

About the Author
Mitch Davies was born in Canada and spent 40 years there before moving to the desert of Arizona. He is a true child of the media having grown up with a father who worked his entire career in the film industry. The house he grew up in had a television on from the time he woke up until he went to bed. The influence of stories, whether real or made up, was always present. Due to this exposure, Mitch viewed most of life's occurrences as scenes for a story.

Mitch Davies has a strong interest in things Japanese and in August of 2010 went to Japan to live and write for three months. His preparation for the trip and his experiences while living in Japan can be followed on his blog at http://www.zonajin.blogspot.com/

Previously he authored a novel A Wind in Montana. Better Than Ever, Again is his second novel.

My Take on the Book
I am not a sailor... but I have been on boats in the past and have completely enjoyed the experience! With this in mind, this book does take the sailor and non-sailor alike on an adventure. I will be honest and say that I did have to spend some time with a dictionary so that I knew what was being referred to, but beyond this, it was an enjoyable read and one that I would recommend.

I have to say that the way that the author does share the island of Tahiti does make me want to purchase a ticket to visit quite soon!

This book also does provide the reader with a smattering of a little bit of everything, mystery, romance, advanture and a bit of an escape from daily life.
All-in-all a good book. The only piece that I already mentioned that was a bit of a drawback was the language that was a bit foreign to me.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

Think Classic When You Think of Father Day Gifts

Canadian Club is known as a classic “man’s drink” (no frou-frou paper umbrellas permitted). Kids (who are 21+) can get creative and package a bottle of Canadian Club with Mad Men on DVD(since the whisky is Don Draper’s drink of choice). The combo will surely inspire Dad to wet his whistle and celebrate his classic masculinity. Or, for dads who prefer their whisky on the rocks, you can package Canadian Club with this spherical ice tray. Because the balls of ice have less surface area than standard ice cubes, they cool your drink without watering it down as fast.

The Classic™ 12 is a celebration of the art of blending. Our master blender has created a 12 year old multi award winning masterpiece. Still with our trade mark smoothness, the classic has subtle notes of spice and vanilla. Beautiful straight but also makes phenomenal cocktails.

Aroma: soft, round, full balanced and creamy

Body: full and smooth

Taste: spicy and creamy, with hints of vanilla and rich, mellow wood

Finish: long and dry

What can you do with this amazing drink... here are a few ideas!

Canadian Club Sour

1.5 parts Canadian Club Classic 12

Juice of half a lemon

Teaspoon of sugar

Garnish: Maraschino cherry or lemon wedge

Directions: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add Canadian Club Classic 12, lemon juice and sugar and shake. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a Maraschino cherry or lemon wedge.

The Millionaire’s Manhattan
1 part Harvey’s Bristol Cream Sherry

3 parts Canadian Club Classic 12

Maraschino cherry for garnish

Directions: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add Cream Sherry and whisky. Shake and then strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with maraschino cherry.

Old Fashioned Cocktail

8 parts Canadian Club Classic 12

2-3 dashes Angostura Bitters

1 part simple syrup

Orange peel

Directions:Muddle syrup and orange peel in a mixing glass. Add bitters and whisky and stir. Add ice cubes and stir again. Transfer to an old fashioned glass.

My Take on the Drink
I made both a Canadian Club Sour as well as a traditional Whisky Sour and both were delicious. As a person who enjoys an occasional drink, this would be a great gift for me and for other discerning fathers like myself. The Classic 12 is definitely a drink that goes down smooth and is quite tasty as well. If you are looking for a unique gift for the master drink mixer in your life, look no further!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

1-800 Baskets provides A Father Something Different This Fathers Day!

It’s almost time to celebrate the man who taught us the greatest lessons in life – how to ride a bike, defend ourselves and real rock and roll – DAD! June 19 is Father’s Day and 1-800-Baskets.com has affordable and convenient options for every kind of dad.

For the Sporty Dad:

· Golfer's Choice Father's Day Gift Basket ($29.99)A Father’s Day gift that’s right on par, super cool Golfer’s Choice gift basket is a true taste of the tour life - packed with treats including Kettle corn, pub mix, and golf balls and golf tees.

For the Traditional Dad:

· Hand-painted Mallard Duck Nutcracker ($29.99)

This hand-painted, wooden Mallard duck nutcracker arrives filled with a decadent selection of whole, unshelled nuts including pecans, walnuts, Brazil nuts and more. After the nuts are gone, it can easily be refilled or used as a fun office accessory.

For the Outdoors-Dad:

· Fishing Creel Full of Fisherman’s Favorite Snacks ($59.99)

Inspired by vintage European creels, this authentic creel is perfect for anglers of all skill levels and full of fisherman’s favorites like Columbian coffee and smoked salmon – just in case the fish aren’t biting.

For the Handy-Dad:

Happy Father's Day Handyman's Snack Gift Set (39.99)

From skinned knees to math equations, he's always there to solve problems. Send this gift, filled with tools and gourmet snacks to lend a hand to a hardworking and very hungry man!

My Take on the Baskets
I was able to try out the Golfers Basket and have to say that I was impressed. If you are looking for a unique gift, this definitely fits the bill. The items within the basket are high quality. The food tastes great and depending on the interests of the father you are looking to celebrate you have the opportunity to choose something that is appropriate for that specific person.

The baskets arrive completely wrapped and ready to share with that special dad. You will find that no matter what the occasion, 1-800baskets.com gives you a break from the ordinary and allows you to simply sit back and not worry about picking the right thing. Instead they provide you with the opportunity to select something that has a ton of things that the person you are shopping for will enjoy! What else could you ask for!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

Book Review - The Available Parent

About the Book
Today’s teens face challenges that we could only have dreamed of when we were their age. They have a barrage of media available to them at a rapid-fire pace. Relationships are different, bullying is different—everything is different for them. And they need their parents to help guide them through the morass. But for many families, that is precisely the time when children suddenly become unrecognizable to their parents. Kids who were once friendly now seem sullen, moody and distant.

In THE AVAILABLE PARENT: Radical Optimism for Raising Teens and Tweens, Chicago teen therapist Dr. John Duffy gives parents a new strategy for helping their adolescents become competent, resilient, connected adults, based on his years as a family counselor. Dr. Duffy believes that it’s not teenagers who are unavailable. He believes that too often parents strike first with judgment, fear, anger and ego—and their teens simply react in kind.

THE AVAILABLE PARENT outlines clear, teen-tested strategies for transforming that dynamic. Available parents are open to loving, non-judgmental discussion, offering advice but not insisting that the child take it. They are unconditionally accepting and open to new and different ways of thinking. Available parents are self-aware, and keep their own emotions in check when dealing with their children. There are no limits to their availability, but they do not hover in an over-involved manner. Available parents recognize that they need to allow their children a wide enough berth to make decisions good and bad, and to learn from both.

Some of Dr. Duffy’s advice is counterintuitive and surprising. For example, Dr. Duffy thinks it’s important for teens to have boyfriend/girlfriend relationships. Recent research clearly indicates that teens take intimate and sexual relationships very seriously, and counter to conventional wisdom, this has proven to be just as true for boys as it is for girls. Many of Dr. Duffy’s teen clients have shared with him that these relationships can be a source of strength and motivation in their lives, often leading to better grades, and the development of life skills and emotional intelligence. An available parent allows for ample open communication with a minimum of conflict around relationships.

Unlike hovering “helicopter parents” and “Tiger Mothers,” available parents are not a constant presence in the lives of their teens and tweens. Helicopter parenting is a fear-based approach that robs children of this critical opportunity for growth and self-worth. Available parents realize that healthy children of this age need to experiment and learn from their mistakes.

If you remain available to your child through his teenage years, insists Dr. Duffy, you lay a foundation for a healthy, loving relationship with him in the years beyond.

About the Author

John Duffy is a clinical psychologist and certified life coach with a thriving private practice in the Chicago area. Dr. Duffy works with both teens and adults and specializes in helping parents maximize satisfaction and minimize conflict in their relationships with their teenagers. In addition to clinical work, Duffy also consults with individuals, groups and corporations in a number of areas, including Emotional Intelligence, stress management, balancing work and family, conflict resolution, goal-setting and the power of thoughts in bringing about change. Dr. Duffy's clients include Sears, Allstate, General Electric, Household Financial, Exxon Mobil, Accenture, Bank of America and Hewitt Associates.

My Take on the Book
I have read a number of books about parenting and about prepareing and working through the teenage years (Yes I am a bit scared about these years as they slowly approach). This book and Dr. Duffy's stance on how to best work with this population is a bit different than I have seen in the past. His approach, though different than I have seen, was quite interesting and seemingly will be easy to implement when the time comes.

I really enjoyed how Dr. Duffy shares his philosophy through many stories and case studies. You can easily place yourself into the situations and think even deeper about how you would react in the same situations.

For me, I know this this book will be one that I keep in my library and will be referring back to again as the teenage years get closer with my girls!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Friday, May 27, 2011

Book Review - A Tuscan-American Kitchen

About the Book

Featuring the foods and customs of two families whose roots are planted in the Tuscan hills, this comprehensive presentation of the cuisine of Northern Italy includes nearly three hundred kitchen-tested recipes. Covering every aspect of the Tuscan kitchen from appetizers through dessert, the recipes feature breads; fish and game dishes; meat, lamb, and veal offerings; omelets; pastas (from stuffed varieties to polenta); poultry; rice; salads; snacks; sauces; soups; and vegetables. An entire chapter focusing on pork preparations includes some of the books showcase recipes, such as porchetta, and outstanding salami, prosciutto, and blood pudding.

Far beyond simple recipes, the book includes an examination of the differences in regional cooking in Italy and how these differences have been adapted in America. Using Tuscan proverbs and traditions as a base, the authors delve deep into Tuscan holidays and the people’s relationship to their land and the climate. Five essays accompanying the recipes further illuminate the routines and rituals throughout the Tuscan year, immigrant stories, how to shop Italian, and country-style cooking. Useful illustrations, ranging from step-by-step instructions for stuffing an artichoke and making cannelloni to making homemade wine and identifying dozens of different types of pasta, add a further dimension of experience to the volume.

About the Authors

A third-generation Italian American, Cassandra Vivian is a retired historian, columnist, public relations consultant, entrepreneur, and English instructor. The author of nearly twenty books, Vivian has received awards from the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, the NAACP, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and Outstanding Young Women of America. She lives in Mt. Pleasant, Pennsylvania.

Vivian Pelini Sansone is the daughter of Italian immigrants. Her mother instilled in her a love of cooking, and Sansone has always enjoyed perfecting new recipes and old standbys, much to the joy of her family. Now retired, she worked for Bell Telephone Company for more than thirty years. She lives in New Castle, Pennsylvania.

My Take on the BookThis book was first published in 1993 under the name of IMMIGRANTS KITCHEN: ITALIAN

The authors made changes. They updated the ingredients and methods. A distinction has been made between Tuscan cooking and cooking in other Italian regions.

The introduction written was helpful in understanding the various regions of Italy and the different cultures in methods and foods used in cooking.

The authors wrote a detailed history of their family. You will find it not only interesting but maybe your ancestors had similar stories to tell.

My grandparents were immigrants from Sicily, Italy. I have heard stories about the family get togethers, food cooked and customs.

This book was a look back into a time in the authors' past and made me eager to try the recipes. They are recipes that are still alive not only in American but in Tuscany too.

Here are a few of the recipes I used:

The first one I made was the Boiled Potato with Parsley Salad. Variations to the recipe included adding garlic, fresh vegetables like tomato, cucumber, peppers, beans or olives. I made the salad for our family church picnic. The bowl was empty when I left. I loved the vinegar and oil dressing on the salad. It added to the freshness of the vegetables I used.

The second recipe I was the polenta. I made the polenta and let it harden in a rectangular pan in the refrigerator overnight. I made the meat sauce in the book which I used the next day on the warmed up polenta which had been cut into rectangles. This was another delicious combination and a nice change from pasta and meat sauce.

The recipe choices range from appetizers through vegetables ( in alphabetical order). You will not be disappointed in this story book and cook book. The ingredients can be easily found in your grocery store. All you need to do is add your time and your love!

BUON APPETITO!!!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Thursday, May 26, 2011

Father's Day-For Wine Lovers

Ties are boring… this year tell Dad how much you love him with a bottle of his favorite wine…personalize it with Wine Wear!

Wine Wear is a greeting card tailored to fit a wine bottle. The father’s Day card looks like a super hero costume…because Dad is your hero and includes the message “Happy Father’s Day!”

Wine Wear is a fun, inexpensive way to say Happy Father’s Day. We would love to send samples for review. ]

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

Affordable, Quality Dental Care for Families

Brighter.com, the first Internet resource that allows consumers to compare dentists by reputation and by price, launched today. The service makes quality dental care accessible and affordable for the millions of uninsured Americans by giving consumers access to discounted prices that can cut dental bills by as much as 60 percent.

Brighter‘s pre-negotiated prices on all major dental procedures at 25,000 dentists nationwide (nearly a quarter of all practicing dentists) are 20-60 percent lower than the prices that an uninsured patient would typically pay when visiting their dentist. The site also provides real patient reviews from its members and Yelp – tapping the increasingly influential power of social networks to help identify trusted dentists enabling patients to select not just the most affordable dentists, but also the dentist that best suits their specific needs.

The site offers the only free discount plan in the industry which entitles members to discounts of 20-30 percent off most common procedures. Brighter’s premium discount plan offers the highest level of discounts of up to 60 percent at a cost of less than $7 a month or $79 per year. The premium plan entitles all members of a family to those discounts for that low monthly price. Brighter also offers plans for small businesses that cost less than $49 annually per employee.

"Brighter is an early example of real health care reform where consumers can make direct and informed buying decisions regarding the cost and quality of their care,” said Jake Winebaum, founder and chief executive officer, Brighter.com. “With Brighter, we have created a true marketplace for dental care that makes it easy for consumers to find the right dentist at a fair price, and in many cases cut their dental bills in half. As dental costs continue to escalate, and 50 percent of Americans are without dental insurance, there is an urgent need for this service."

Dental care has too often been relegated to low priority status among Americans, mainly due to a significant gap around access to quality care at fair prices. With nearly half the population without dental coverage and dental costs rising faster than inflation for the past 5 years, Americans spent nearly $45 billion out-of-pocket for their dental care without any readily available price transparency. Dental insurance premiums have increased at a higher rate than healthcare, further exacerbating this national dilemma.

Despite the American Dental Association’s recommendation that Americans visit the dentist one to two times a year, according to a recent survey run by Prof. David Neal of University of Southern California* only 1 in 4 without insurance go for the recommended number of visits. Lack of regular preventative care has been linked not only to poor long-term oral health and significant future dental costs, but to major diseases such as heart disease and diabetes which is why the US Surgeon General has called the lack of access to affordable dental care, America’s “Silent Epidemic.”

“The survey highlights that dramatic disparities in access to quality, affordable dental care persist in the United States today,” said Professor David T. Neal, University of Southern California, and lead researcher on the national survey. “Only 1 in 4 Americans without dental insurance reported having preventive care, and 1 in 5 have not been to the dentist in 10 years or more."

The company also announced that it closed Series A funding of $5M, led by Mayfield Fund. Mayfield has invested in a number of highly successful companies including 3PAR (acquired by Hewlett Packard), Compaq, Genentech, Sandisk, Slide (acquired by Google), and privately-held Solarcity, among others.

“Our partnership with Jake illustrates our belief that early-stage venture capital is all about investing in relationships, not just transactions," said Navin Chaddha, managing director, Mayfield Fund. "We have worked closely over the last 18 months from the seed through series A investment phase to iterate business ideas. By investing in a serial entrepreneur of his stature, in Brighter, we are now part of an audacious company that will transform the way consumers access dental care."

For more information on Brighter, please visit www.Brighter.com.

About Brighter.com

Brighter makes quality dental care affordable to the 50 percent of Americans without dental insurance. Dental costs and dental insurance premiums have risen so fast that the majority of the population cannot afford to go to the dentist for the preventative and restorative care that they need. Brighter.com is the first website that allows consumers to compare dentists by reputation and by price. Patients can see the true cost of dental procedures before they visit the dentist, and with Brighter's network of 25,000 dentists nationwide Brighter members can save 20percent-60percent on all their dental procedures.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Summer Family Adventure at Moonlight Basin

The ideal family trip this summer is through Montana’s Rocky Mountains. Moonlight Basin, a premier mountain retreat nestled in the mountains, provides families with the best of what Montana has to offer for their summer getaways. From nature hikes in the resort’s backyard, to braving the whitewaters of the scenic Gallatin River or visiting a National Park, the four-season retreat is located just one hour from Bozeman and features endless possibilities for family activities and adventures.

In the summer months, Moonlight Basin is a family’s paradise, offering BBQ on the Deck of Moonlight Lodge every Tuesday through September, the Annual Fourth of July Rodeo, horseback riding, camping and more. The Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course and Moonlight Spa for mom and dad create the perfect balance of luxury and adventure for the ultimate vacation.

Accommodations at Moonlight Basin are perfect for families, offering both convenience and comfort and range from two to four bedrooms. Rooms are luxuriously outfitted with kitchens, gas fireplaces, private hot tubs and spectacular mountain views. Lodging rates range from $219 to $2,419 per night.

About Moonlight Basin

Moonlight Basin is an environmentally-sensitive, recreational resort and real estate development, surrounded by world-class Rocky Mountain skiing, 250,000 acres of wilderness and miles of nature trails. Offering luxury accommodations; Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf; a full-service spa; a variety of dining options; “The Biggest Skiing in America,” in combination with Big Sky Resort; fishing; hunting; rafting; camping; skiing; horseback riding and numerous other activities throughout the year, it’s the perfect balance of luxury and adventure. Located just one hour from Bozeman and 50 miles from Yellowstone National Park, this four-season paradise feels private and secluded, yet is easily accessible year-round.
www.moonlightbasin.com

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Father's Day Gift Guide: American Living

I wanted to share American Living (www.americanliving.com) from jcpenney's as some of the latest styles made for fathers and sons, offering a wide array of colors and styles that match all personalities. Any purchase of two polos made now includes a free cap!

I also encourage you to check out this awesome Made for Fathers and Sons video that I think you will enjoy!

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Zippo Father's Day Sweepstakes

Hope you’re gearing up for a nice long weekend. I just wanted to bring your attention to a Father’s Day Sweepstakes that Zippo is hosting:

http://www.zippo.com/FathersDaySweepstakes/sweepstakes.aspx?bhcp=1

One grand prize winner will receive a black-dialed Zippo chronograph watch, a Zippo pen, as well as a lighter gift set. The second prize winner will receive a Zippo pen and lighter gift set. Ten runners up will receive a Zippo pen.

So go over today and enter... you will not be disappointed that you did!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

LION KING: DIAMOND EDITION

New Release Streeting 10/4 (‘Lion King Diamond Edition’)

Simba, Mufasa, Nala, Timon and Pumbaa are back and better than ever this fall when Disney's “The Lion King” roars into theaters and homes in breathtaking 3D. A special two-week theatrical extravaganza kicks off Sept. 16, 2011, showcasing the Oscar®- and Golden Globe®-winning film on the big screen in Disney Digital 3D™ for the first time ever, and its highly anticipated home entertainment debut kicks off October 4, celebrating the Diamond Edition release of the epic movie “The Lion King” in high-definition Blu-ray™ and Blu-ray 3D™.

“The Lion King" is the best-selling home entertainment release of all time—and this is “The Lion King" like never before,” said Bob Chapek, president of distribution, The Walt Disney Studios. “The all-new 3D format immerses viewers in the epic settings and puts them face-to-face with these beloved characters. We’re showcasing one of the all-time favorite Disney movies in theaters and making it available in Blu-ray hi-def and in Blu-ray 3D—it's the must-see, must-own title for everyone.”

Nearly a decade since “The Lion King” last appeared on the big screen, the upcoming theatrical release invites new generations into the “Circle of Life.” The two-week, 3D-only presentation is a planned wide domestic release—the biggest since the film's 1994 debut—and the film's first-ever 3D release.

The Blu-ray debut marks the first time “The Lion King” has been available in any form since 2004. Featuring pristine high definition picture and sound, the Blu-ray creates an incredible at-home experience with a host of picture and sound enhancements, interactive features and bonus content, including a new set of hilarious animated bloopers.

“The Lion King”: Diamond Edition home entertainment release will be available from the Disney Vault for a limited time only beginning October 4 as follows:

4-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack (for the suggested retail price of $49.99 U.S./ $56.99 Canada)
- “The Lion King” = Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray 2D + DVD + Digital Copy™
2-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack (for the suggested retail price of $39.99 U.S./$46.99 Canada)
- “The Lion King” = Blu-ray 2D + DVD
8-Disc Trilogy (for the suggested retail price of $100.00 U.S./ $115.00 Canada)
- “The Lion King” = Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray 2D + DVD + Digital Copy
- “The Lion King 1 ½” = Blu-ray 2D + DVD
- “The Lion King II: Simba?s Pride” = Blu-ray 2D + DVD

And the one-disc DVD Edition will be available on November 15.

“The Lion King,” first released in 1994, won the Oscar® for Best Original Score (Hans Zimmer) and Best Original Song (Elton John/Tim Rice “Can You Feel the Love Tonight”), earning Golden Globes® in both categories, as well as for Best Motion Picture—Comedy or Musical.

The film inspired an immensely popular, Tony Award®-winning Broadway musical, which is currently featured on stages worldwide. It became the seventh longest-running musical in Broadway history in January 2011.

ABOUT THE LION KING:
An unforgettable story, breathtaking animation, beloved characters and award-winning music sets the stage for “The Lion King”, a Disney classic that follows the adventures of Simba, the feisty lion cub who “just can't wait to be king.” But his envious Uncle Scar has plans for his own ascent to the throne, and he forces Simba's exile from the kingdom. Alone and adrift, Simba soon joins the escapades of a hilarious meerkat named Timon and his warmhearted warthog pal, Pumbaa. Adopting their carefree lifestyle of “Hakuna Matata,” Simba ignores his real responsibilities until he realizes his destiny and returns to the Pride Lands to claim his place in the “Circle of Life.” The all-star vocal talents—including Matthew Broderick, Nathan Lane, Whoopi Goldberg, James Earl Jones, Jeremy Irons, Ernie Sabella, Jonathan Taylor Thomas, Robert Guillaume, Cheech Marin and Moira Kelly—rip-roaring comedy and uplifting messages of courage, loyalty and hope make this a timeless tale for all ages. Produced by Don Hahn and directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff from a script by Irene Mecchi, Jonathan Roberts and Linda Woolverton, “The Lion King” is rated G by the MPAA.

ABOUT DISNEY’S BLU-RAY DIAMOND COLLECTION: The Blu-ray Diamond Collection represents The Walt Disney Studio's most prestigious animated classics. The Collection will be comprised with many of Walt Disney's most treasured animated classic titles to be released through 2016. These titles represent the highest level of picture and sound, feature groundbreaking, state-of-the-art immersive bonus content, and include unprecedented levels of interactivity, personalization and customization, made possible because of Blu-ray technology.

ABOUT THE WALT DISNEY STUDIOS: For more than 85 years, The Walt Disney Studios has been the foundation on which The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) was built. Today, the Studio brings quality movies, music and stage plays to consumers throughout the world. Feature films are released under four banners: Walt Disney Pictures, which includes Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios, Disneynature, Touchstone Pictures and Marvel. Through the Home Entertainment division, innovative distribution methods provide access to creative content across multiple platforms. Original music and motion picture soundtracks are produced under Walt Disney Records and Hollywood Records, while Disney Theatrical Group produces and licenses live events, including Broadway theatrical productions, Disney on Ice and Disney LIVE!.
For more information, please visit www.disney.com/TheLionKing

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Stover

About the Book

Parents worried about issues such as childhood obesity, bullying and the amount of time children spend plugged in have a friend and ally in Kathy Brodsky, a psychotherapist, poet and author of uplifting children's books. Her new book Stover, about a fit pig who exercises and eats right, is full of "helping words" that gently promote conversations about the issues today facing children and families.

"I've been a clinical social worker for 40 years and about 10 years ago, I started to write," says the New Hampshire-based author and mom of two grown sons whose works are found at www.Helpingwords.com. "All of my books have these wonderful questions in the back of them that pertain to the messages and the story, and they lead to further discussion for parents, teachers, and kids."

It's no wonder schools have used Kathy's books for week-long lessons. And Stover, featuring an adorable pig intent on staying fit, continues the conversation-starting style that made Kathy's previous books, My Bent Tree (2008) and The Inside Story (2009), hits with kids, parents and teachers.

Little Stover, as envisioned by Kathy and drawn by acclaimed illustrator Cameron Bennett, is "the cutest little pig you've ever seen," Kathy says.

"He's a pig who goes to the gym and he eats in a healthy way. And in the back of the book, we have questions about being fit and eating healthy foods. I think it's the most exciting book I've ever done."

Kathy's philosophy of helping kids and families talk about tough topics through gentle, encouraging "helping words" is summed up on her website — "Live, Laugh, and Learn with Kathy Brodsky." My Bent Tree (based upon the loving support Kathy received from her mom during a childhood battle with polio), The Inside Story and The Winner Is... all gently and playfully teach that diversity is beautiful and each person is valuable. The open-ended questions Kathy poses at the end of each book help parents and kids talk about issues such as bullying, peer pressure, self-esteem and friendship.

Now Stover, a minor character in The Winner Is..., takes center stage. The persistent pig brings Kathy's passion for encouraging healthy family lifestyles into the mix as he shows that anyone – even a pig – can be healthy.

"I wanted to show with Stover that even if you're not skinny-skinny you can be fit and healthy," she says.

An animal lover whose previous book Just Sniffing Around focused on a family's love for their dog, Kathy made Stover a pig to showcase the achievements of underdogs everywhere. Choosing a returning character from a previous book gives kids a comforting reassurance too, she says.

"It's like putting on a comfortable pair of slippers. I think familiarity is something very important for people because we all feel more comfortable with things we're familiar with," she says.

Stover also continues one of Kathy's signature themes started in her first book (for adults) Moments in Our Lives (2004): Everything in life is connected.

"You never know where something can lead, and one thing leads to the next which leads to the next," she says.

Visit Kathy Brodsky's public website at: www.Helpingwords.com

My Take on the Book
Stover is a happy little pig. He enjoys playing in the mud, but then quickly cleans up and heads to the gym to exercise.

Stover is the epitome of a healthy lifestyle. He chooses nutritious food to eat for breakfast like oatmeal and fruit. Stover enjoys snacks which include vegetables, dried fruits, nuts and water.

As Stover enters the gym he encounters many friends. He uses different kinds of equipment and participates in different classes to exercise. Stover hikes on the stair climber, races on a bicycle, uses a mat for yoga, runs on the treadmill, takes a step to use for aerobics class, and lastly Stover is on a swim team and swims laps.

Stover is a pig, but Stover is a fit pig. Through this story the author uses rhyme and helpful suggestions to encourage you and your child to choose a healthy way to live. Notice at the end of the story there are many good discussion questions.

This is a delightful book to share with a child. It is one that should lead to a discussion about exercise and how exercise can become a part of your life. Enjoy this story!

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