Coming Attraction: 'Littlest Pet Shop' Premieres on The Hub + 'My Little Pony'

To contact us Click HERE

'Littlest Pet Shop' on The Hub

The Hub has an exciting Saturday planned -- for those kids, including my own little girl, who are crazy about a certain group of ponies, as well as a new herd of colorful, talking creatures.

In addition to airing the season premiere of My Little Pony Friendship is Magic (Saturday at 10 a.m. ET/7 a.m. PT), The Hub will premiere a new series, Littlest Pet Shop (Saturday at 11 a.m. ET/8 a.m. PT).

CC and I caught a sneak peek of Littlest Pet Shop, and it looks like a clever and colorful Saturday morning addition. The show centers on Blythe Baxter, a little girl who has moved to the Manhattan-esque big city with her pilot dad (sans mom, but that goes unexplained). Blythe is precocious and very sure of herself -- a positive trait I love for my daughter to see.

In fact, when she bumps into a couple of "mean girls," she stands up for herself from the get-go. Talk about a great example for little girls.

Blythe and her father move into an apartment above the Littlest Pet Shop, which is in danger of closing. In the opening two episodes, this fashion-forward little girl discovers that she can talk to the little critters -- which include a monkey, dog, gecko, hedgehog (not a porcupine!) and a skunk -- and that they need her help.

But can Blythe help save the pet shop?

The show is gorgeously animated, with candy-colored animals, cityscapes and fashion. It definitely pops off the screen. What's also interesting is the pairing of Littlest Pet Shop alongside My Little Pony. Both shows seem to have the same smart-girl sensibilities. That is, they're headlined by clever girls who aren't afraid to show off their smarts -- or their (often dry) senses of humor. They're also confident enough to put friends in their place, should they go off track.

CC enjoyed the episodes -- and especially loved when Littlest Pet Shop dog Zoe burst out into song. Look forward to checking out more!

Free Screening: 'Dino Time'

To contact us Click HERE

Just in case you missed catching a movie with the kiddos over the long weekend, here's your chance to snag a sneak peek of Dino Time, from Clarius Entertainment, for free!

While the animated kids' film doesn't hit theaters until Dec. 7, you can take the kiddos to an advanced screening tomorrow night in Burbank. (See info below.)

Featuring voice talent from Jane Lynch (she's everywhere these days!), Melanie Griffith, Rob Schneider and Stephen and William Baldwin, Dino Time is about three kids -- Ernie, Julia and Max -- who accidentally turn on a time machine in Max's dad's workshop and head back in time 65 million years. The kids are adopted by a friendly dinosaur family, which tries to protect them from the grumpier dinos, while the kids' parents try to find a way back for them.

Here's where and how you and the kids can see the film: Go to www.gofobo.com/rsvp to download free tickets with the code LAMOMS41RL

DINO TIMETuesday, November 136:30pmAMC Burbank 16125 East Palm AvenueBurbank, CA 91502

Let me know what you think!

Happy Birthday, CC! You're 6!

To contact us Click HERE

Happy Birthday, my little bear! I can't believe it's been six years since I first laid eyes on you.

I want you to know that you are a true joy and a shining light in your daddy's and my eyes. You're growing up to be such a kind, thoughtful and brilliant little girl.

You've gone through so many changes this year, and you've handled them all with such grace -- as you have with other changes in your little life.

I'm proud of you and love you more than you will ever know.

'Ice Age: Continental Drift' DVD Review

To contact us Click HERE

Our toothy prehistoric heroes are back for a fourth installment in Ice Age: Continental Drift, and the Blu-ray/DVD ($39.99) is hitting store shelves on December 11.

CC and I had the chance to dive into the icy adventure on DVD, courtesy of 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment, and this incarnation of the popular Blue Sky Studios film franchise has families breaking apart -- along with the ice -- and learning what it takes to adjust to a few growing pains.

Manny (voiced by Ray Romano), Diego (Denis Leary) and Sid (John Leguizamo) hit the high seas when the continent starts to break apart, but not before Manny gets a dose of teenage embarrassment and frustration, courtesy of his daughter, Peaches (Keke Palmer), who's trying to impress a cute boy, er, woolly mammoth (Drake).

The trio of friends encounter a rag-tag group of pirates, led by a ruthless gorilla (Peter Dinklage) with a toothy grin that could use a few Crest White Strips. Using their wits to outsmart these marauders, Manny, Diego and Sid must find a way to reunite the herd -- all while dealing with Sid's seemingly senile grandmother (Wanda Sykes).

CC enjoyed the icy adventure, and for me it's always fun to check out the voice cast. (I especially love John Leguizamo's Sid!) That, and Scrat. That poor prehistoric squirrel can't ever seem to get that acorn -- and the clever ways he always misses it is a fun trademark of the series.

The movie itself is light and a fun weekend distraction. Older kids should be able to empathize with the challenges of being a teenager and dealing with an especially protective parent. Younger kids will love the colorful animation and the silly crew of animals.


For those of you in Los Angeles, the Beverly Center is hosting an Ice Age Ice Palace display through the holidays. The 30-foot dome will offer footage from the movie, as well as falling snow and a light show.

Enjoy!

Even Daddy Day Care Can Be Hard on a Mom

To contact us Click HERE

To be honest, it was hard leaving Baby Will at home -- even with my husband, who's an amazing dad -- when I had to go back to work.

When Ian sent me these photos of him on the beach with Baby Will, a mullet wig and fake cigarettes, it became that much harder. Funnier, but harder.

I wrote about it for mom.me, the website where I work. Let me know what you think. The comments are pretty hard-core.

Coming Attraction: 'Littlest Pet Shop' Premieres on The Hub + 'My Little Pony'

To contact us Click HERE

'Littlest Pet Shop' on The Hub

The Hub has an exciting Saturday planned -- for those kids, including my own little girl, who are crazy about a certain group of ponies, as well as a new herd of colorful, talking creatures.

In addition to airing the season premiere of My Little Pony Friendship is Magic (Saturday at 10 a.m. ET/7 a.m. PT), The Hub will premiere a new series, Littlest Pet Shop (Saturday at 11 a.m. ET/8 a.m. PT).

CC and I caught a sneak peek of Littlest Pet Shop, and it looks like a clever and colorful Saturday morning addition. The show centers on Blythe Baxter, a little girl who has moved to the Manhattan-esque big city with her pilot dad (sans mom, but that goes unexplained). Blythe is precocious and very sure of herself -- a positive trait I love for my daughter to see.

In fact, when she bumps into a couple of "mean girls," she stands up for herself from the get-go. Talk about a great example for little girls.

Blythe and her father move into an apartment above the Littlest Pet Shop, which is in danger of closing. In the opening two episodes, this fashion-forward little girl discovers that she can talk to the little critters -- which include a monkey, dog, gecko, hedgehog (not a porcupine!) and a skunk -- and that they need her help.

But can Blythe help save the pet shop?

The show is gorgeously animated, with candy-colored animals, cityscapes and fashion. It definitely pops off the screen. What's also interesting is the pairing of Littlest Pet Shop alongside My Little Pony. Both shows seem to have the same smart-girl sensibilities. That is, they're headlined by clever girls who aren't afraid to show off their smarts -- or their (often dry) senses of humor. They're also confident enough to put friends in their place, should they go off track.

CC enjoyed the episodes -- and especially loved when Littlest Pet Shop dog Zoe burst out into song. Look forward to checking out more!

Free Screening: 'Dino Time'

To contact us Click HERE

Just in case you missed catching a movie with the kiddos over the long weekend, here's your chance to snag a sneak peek of Dino Time, from Clarius Entertainment, for free!

While the animated kids' film doesn't hit theaters until Dec. 7, you can take the kiddos to an advanced screening tomorrow night in Burbank. (See info below.)

Featuring voice talent from Jane Lynch (she's everywhere these days!), Melanie Griffith, Rob Schneider and Stephen and William Baldwin, Dino Time is about three kids -- Ernie, Julia and Max -- who accidentally turn on a time machine in Max's dad's workshop and head back in time 65 million years. The kids are adopted by a friendly dinosaur family, which tries to protect them from the grumpier dinos, while the kids' parents try to find a way back for them.

Here's where and how you and the kids can see the film: Go to www.gofobo.com/rsvp to download free tickets with the code LAMOMS41RL

DINO TIMETuesday, November 136:30pmAMC Burbank 16125 East Palm AvenueBurbank, CA 91502

Let me know what you think!

Happy Birthday, CC! You're 6!

To contact us Click HERE

Happy Birthday, my little bear! I can't believe it's been six years since I first laid eyes on you.

I want you to know that you are a true joy and a shining light in your daddy's and my eyes. You're growing up to be such a kind, thoughtful and brilliant little girl.

You've gone through so many changes this year, and you've handled them all with such grace -- as you have with other changes in your little life.

I'm proud of you and love you more than you will ever know.

'Ice Age: Continental Drift' DVD Review

To contact us Click HERE

Our toothy prehistoric heroes are back for a fourth installment in Ice Age: Continental Drift, and the Blu-ray/DVD ($39.99) is hitting store shelves on December 11.

CC and I had the chance to dive into the icy adventure on DVD, courtesy of 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment, and this incarnation of the popular Blue Sky Studios film franchise has families breaking apart -- along with the ice -- and learning what it takes to adjust to a few growing pains.

Manny (voiced by Ray Romano), Diego (Denis Leary) and Sid (John Leguizamo) hit the high seas when the continent starts to break apart, but not before Manny gets a dose of teenage embarrassment and frustration, courtesy of his daughter, Peaches (Keke Palmer), who's trying to impress a cute boy, er, woolly mammoth (Drake).

The trio of friends encounter a rag-tag group of pirates, led by a ruthless gorilla (Peter Dinklage) with a toothy grin that could use a few Crest White Strips. Using their wits to outsmart these marauders, Manny, Diego and Sid must find a way to reunite the herd -- all while dealing with Sid's seemingly senile grandmother (Wanda Sykes).

CC enjoyed the icy adventure, and for me it's always fun to check out the voice cast. (I especially love John Leguizamo's Sid!) That, and Scrat. That poor prehistoric squirrel can't ever seem to get that acorn -- and the clever ways he always misses it is a fun trademark of the series.

The movie itself is light and a fun weekend distraction. Older kids should be able to empathize with the challenges of being a teenager and dealing with an especially protective parent. Younger kids will love the colorful animation and the silly crew of animals.


For those of you in Los Angeles, the Beverly Center is hosting an Ice Age Ice Palace display through the holidays. The 30-foot dome will offer footage from the movie, as well as falling snow and a light show.

Enjoy!

2 Months Old!

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Baby Will at 2 months!

OK, so he's actually 10 weeks old, but we've had some serious camera card fails, which have put me behind on my baby-logging.

He's certainly plumped up since last month. That's mostly due to the fact that he's become a formula-only baby. That part was hard -- I breastfed CC for 7 months -- but he was so hungry! All the time! And my body just couldn't keep up.

I love his roly-poly cuddliness, though. And he's starting to smile so much lately. I just want to eat him up.

Pantene AgeDefy Product Line at Target (Giveaway)

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I recently learned that Pantene has launched a new line of AgeDefy hair care products that can actually make your hair look younger.  The line (available at Target) features Shampoo, Conditioner, a Masque, and a Thickening Treatment all created to counteract the seven signs of hair’s aging.
1.       Breakage2.       Split Ends3.       Frizz4.       Unruly Grays5.       Lackluster Color6.       Thin look7.       Dryness
I personally don't have issues with breakage or my hair looking thin, but boy to have a couple unruly grays and plenty of frizz.
Interested in trying this new line? Enter our giveaway below for a chance to win a Pantene AgeDefying Prize Pack valued at $44.97. The prize includes full sizes of Pantene Expert Collection Age Defy Shampoo, Pantene Expert Collection Age Defy Conditioner, Pantene Expert Collection Advanced Thickening Treatment, and a $10 Target Gift Card so you restock your favorites.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure:  I was provided with a Pantene prize pack to giveaway and one to aid in my review.

Online Holiday Shopping with Payments by V.me

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5 days left of shopping and I'm still working on gifts for the two final people on my list.  Why is it that I can find endless ideas for my youngest, but I seem to struggle every year when it comes to the over 20 something year old men on my list like my Dad and Brothers?  Ugh!  Hopefully I am inspired before the shipping deadline passes.  Tick-tock- tick- tock ...

On the plus side, I was able to eliminate some other rather tedious aspects of my online holiday shopping when using the V.me payment option by Visa.



On the shopping site's that offer V.me checkout such as stores like ShoeBuy.com and Modnique.com, I no longer had to constantly keep entering my shipping, billing, and payment info over and over again.  V.Me allows me to store one or more of my Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover cards in my V.me account. So when I have loaded down my cart with all my finds, I can choose to purchase with V.me and access the card I want by simply entering my V.me email address and password.  I should also mention that I will still receive the same rewards I currently get when I use my credit cards the traditional way.  Ultimately, it's just a whole lot quicker and easier way for this busy mom of 5 to online shop.


Despite the fact V.me has made it super easy to complete checkout, security seems to be stronger. According to the V.me website, my payment information is stored behind multiple layers of security. I found it particularly reassuring to hear that my card information is not even shared with the individual sellers. Instead the merchant is sent payment through Visa’s network, but my card number never appears on the site adding another layer of security to the transaction.  I hear so many nightmare stories about individual site's being hacked and customer account info being stolen, so having the bulk of my info stay with Visa seems like a great safeguard.
Additionally, I was further reassured to see that I received nearly instant alerts via my email address when something was purchased by V.me. There is even an option to receive text alerts about V.me activity too.

Signing up to this digital wallet service by V.me only took me a few minutes and once I had the emaiaccount, I could add in 1 or all of my credit and debit cards.  Once stored in my V.me account, I no longer had to keep grabbing out my wallet to re-enter them store to store.  I just had to remember my  email address and password.

Too bad holiday shopping for my Dad and brothers isn't quite as simple.

This post is brought to you by V.me by Visa. Online payment. Simple and secure.
Disclosure: I was compensated by DailyBuzz Moms for this post, however all opinions are my own.

Starbox: The Starlooks December Box

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Frequent readers may recall my review post from November about Starlooks monthly Starbox subscription boxes.  If you missed my first Starbox post, you can find it here.  The gist being, I really loved my first box and was anxiously awaiting my 2nd box which was to be the special December box valued at $99.


Well fast forward a bit, the December box has now arrived and WOW is it a great score for subscribers who pay only a monthly fee of $15.    December's box consists of a beautifully package 15 shade eye shadow palate.  And while it's too late for a new subscriber to receive the December box as part of their normal subscription, the box is currently available for back order purchase at $25.  Still a huge steal over it's normal price of $99!

Disclosure: I received this item from the company for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Last Minute Stocking Stuffers from Hasbro

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Still need a few items for the stockings or smaller gifts?  Hasbro recently send us a few assorted toys that would make great gifts or stocking stuffers.  Among the items we checked out are the new Angry Birds Star Wars Mystery Bags and Transformers Generations Action Figures such as Optimus Prime and Autobot Ratchet.  
I love the tiny inexpensive Angry Birds Star Wars Mystery Bags.  They are perfect starting point for your budding collector.  The Transformer action figures are also a safe bet.  Who doesn't love a robot that can disguise itself as something else?  
Disclosure: Hasbro provided me with these items for my review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Top off your holiday cupcakes with Cool Whip Frosting (Giveaway)

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My husband had his office party at our home early this week and one of the treats we served were my homemade peppermint cupcakes.  They are unreal if I do say so myself.  The crowning glory of this festive minty little baked good turned out to the new vanilla Cool Whip Frosting which I piped over the top of each.

Tip:  Remove frosting from freezer 1 hour before you plan to use it and place in large freezer bag.  Snip one corner of the bag and pipe in circle starting outside and working inwards. 

This was my first time using Cool Whip's new frosting, but certainly won't be the last.  It had a nice subtle flavor and very light fluffy consistency that went really well with the bold peppermint taste of my cupcakes.  Cool Whip Frosting is currently available in three flavors chocolate, vanilla, and cream cheese.  You'll find Cool Whip Frosting in the freezer section of grocery stores.  I found mine at our local Walmart.

How about a giveaway so one of our lucky readers can also give this new product a try?  Entry below.

Cool Whip "reasons to celebrate” Frosting prize pack valued at $100 which includes:
3 Gratuity CoolWhip Frosting coupons
Sandra Lee’s Bake Sale cookbook
A set of heart silicon cupcake liners
Cath Kidston Cupcake Liners (designs)
Stainless Steel Cake Icing Spatula by MIU
Cake Stand plus Cover Set
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure:  I am working in partnership with the COOL WHIP brand and I am receiving compensation for my participation in this campaign. All thoughts/opinions are 100% my own.

Mattel's Toy Story Color Splash Boat & Buddies *Giveaway*

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CC, before she rips open the Mattel Toy Story boxes.

UPDATE: Congrats to Barbara, who won the Mattel Toy Story Color Splash goodies!

Bath time -- or pool time, for that matter, here in sunny SoCal -- is way more fun when you have toys to create splashy stories with. In fact, CC loves to put on a show anytime she needs to put soap to water.

That's why it was extra fun for her to receive Mattel's Toy Story Color Splash Boat (SRP: $19.99) and two Toy Story Color Splash Buddies Two-Packs (SRP: $8.99 each), as part of Mattel's Disney Insider Program, to help create imaginative aquatic adventures come bath time. She was able to try out these fun, color-changing toys and introduce a mini Buzz Lightyear, Partysaurus Rex and a particularly grumpy-looking octopus to her brand of bath-time fun.



Kids can definitely get creative with these toys, as CC did, inventing rescue stories and dividing the figures up into separate teams.

While the figures change color depending on the temperature of the water, the boat itself features flashing LED lights (what kind of party doesn't have flashing lights?), a rescue dinghy that doubles as a water scoop, a trap door and a squirting rubber ducky -- not to mention a squiddy dreadlocked Partysaurus Rex himself. (Check out a sneak peek of the upcoming toon, coming this fall.)

*** GIVEAWAY ***
I'm giving away 1 Mattel Toy Story Color Splash Boat and 2 Color Splash Buddies packs, courtesy of Mattel.

To enter, please leave a comment describing your child's favorite bath-time adventure.

For more chances to win, follow me on Twitter and retweet this giveaway. I'm at @la_story. Or you can "Like" the L.A. Story Facebook page and share the giveaway.

Just be sure to leave extra comments telling me you did so.

Good luck, and I will announce the winner on Friday, Nov. 9!

Coming Attraction: 'Littlest Pet Shop' Premieres on The Hub + 'My Little Pony'

To contact us Click HERE

'Littlest Pet Shop' on The Hub

The Hub has an exciting Saturday planned -- for those kids, including my own little girl, who are crazy about a certain group of ponies, as well as a new herd of colorful, talking creatures.

In addition to airing the season premiere of My Little Pony Friendship is Magic (Saturday at 10 a.m. ET/7 a.m. PT), The Hub will premiere a new series, Littlest Pet Shop (Saturday at 11 a.m. ET/8 a.m. PT).

CC and I caught a sneak peek of Littlest Pet Shop, and it looks like a clever and colorful Saturday morning addition. The show centers on Blythe Baxter, a little girl who has moved to the Manhattan-esque big city with her pilot dad (sans mom, but that goes unexplained). Blythe is precocious and very sure of herself -- a positive trait I love for my daughter to see.

In fact, when she bumps into a couple of "mean girls," she stands up for herself from the get-go. Talk about a great example for little girls.

Blythe and her father move into an apartment above the Littlest Pet Shop, which is in danger of closing. In the opening two episodes, this fashion-forward little girl discovers that she can talk to the little critters -- which include a monkey, dog, gecko, hedgehog (not a porcupine!) and a skunk -- and that they need her help.

But can Blythe help save the pet shop?

The show is gorgeously animated, with candy-colored animals, cityscapes and fashion. It definitely pops off the screen. What's also interesting is the pairing of Littlest Pet Shop alongside My Little Pony. Both shows seem to have the same smart-girl sensibilities. That is, they're headlined by clever girls who aren't afraid to show off their smarts -- or their (often dry) senses of humor. They're also confident enough to put friends in their place, should they go off track.

CC enjoyed the episodes -- and especially loved when Littlest Pet Shop dog Zoe burst out into song. Look forward to checking out more!

Free Screening: 'Dino Time'

To contact us Click HERE

Just in case you missed catching a movie with the kiddos over the long weekend, here's your chance to snag a sneak peek of Dino Time, from Clarius Entertainment, for free!

While the animated kids' film doesn't hit theaters until Dec. 7, you can take the kiddos to an advanced screening tomorrow night in Burbank. (See info below.)

Featuring voice talent from Jane Lynch (she's everywhere these days!), Melanie Griffith, Rob Schneider and Stephen and William Baldwin, Dino Time is about three kids -- Ernie, Julia and Max -- who accidentally turn on a time machine in Max's dad's workshop and head back in time 65 million years. The kids are adopted by a friendly dinosaur family, which tries to protect them from the grumpier dinos, while the kids' parents try to find a way back for them.

Here's where and how you and the kids can see the film: Go to www.gofobo.com/rsvp to download free tickets with the code LAMOMS41RL

DINO TIMETuesday, November 136:30pmAMC Burbank 16125 East Palm AvenueBurbank, CA 91502

Let me know what you think!

Happy Birthday, CC! You're 6!

To contact us Click HERE

Happy Birthday, my little bear! I can't believe it's been six years since I first laid eyes on you.

I want you to know that you are a true joy and a shining light in your daddy's and my eyes. You're growing up to be such a kind, thoughtful and brilliant little girl.

You've gone through so many changes this year, and you've handled them all with such grace -- as you have with other changes in your little life.

I'm proud of you and love you more than you will ever know.

'Ice Age: Continental Drift' DVD Review

To contact us Click HERE

Our toothy prehistoric heroes are back for a fourth installment in Ice Age: Continental Drift, and the Blu-ray/DVD ($39.99) is hitting store shelves on December 11.

CC and I had the chance to dive into the icy adventure on DVD, courtesy of 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment, and this incarnation of the popular Blue Sky Studios film franchise has families breaking apart -- along with the ice -- and learning what it takes to adjust to a few growing pains.

Manny (voiced by Ray Romano), Diego (Denis Leary) and Sid (John Leguizamo) hit the high seas when the continent starts to break apart, but not before Manny gets a dose of teenage embarrassment and frustration, courtesy of his daughter, Peaches (Keke Palmer), who's trying to impress a cute boy, er, woolly mammoth (Drake).

The trio of friends encounter a rag-tag group of pirates, led by a ruthless gorilla (Peter Dinklage) with a toothy grin that could use a few Crest White Strips. Using their wits to outsmart these marauders, Manny, Diego and Sid must find a way to reunite the herd -- all while dealing with Sid's seemingly senile grandmother (Wanda Sykes).

CC enjoyed the icy adventure, and for me it's always fun to check out the voice cast. (I especially love John Leguizamo's Sid!) That, and Scrat. That poor prehistoric squirrel can't ever seem to get that acorn -- and the clever ways he always misses it is a fun trademark of the series.

The movie itself is light and a fun weekend distraction. Older kids should be able to empathize with the challenges of being a teenager and dealing with an especially protective parent. Younger kids will love the colorful animation and the silly crew of animals.


For those of you in Los Angeles, the Beverly Center is hosting an Ice Age Ice Palace display through the holidays. The 30-foot dome will offer footage from the movie, as well as falling snow and a light show.

Enjoy!

Free Screening: 'Dino Time'

To contact us Click HERE

Just in case you missed catching a movie with the kiddos over the long weekend, here's your chance to snag a sneak peek of Dino Time, from Clarius Entertainment, for free!

While the animated kids' film doesn't hit theaters until Dec. 7, you can take the kiddos to an advanced screening tomorrow night in Burbank. (See info below.)

Featuring voice talent from Jane Lynch (she's everywhere these days!), Melanie Griffith, Rob Schneider and Stephen and William Baldwin, Dino Time is about three kids -- Ernie, Julia and Max -- who accidentally turn on a time machine in Max's dad's workshop and head back in time 65 million years. The kids are adopted by a friendly dinosaur family, which tries to protect them from the grumpier dinos, while the kids' parents try to find a way back for them.

Here's where and how you and the kids can see the film: Go to www.gofobo.com/rsvp to download free tickets with the code LAMOMS41RL

DINO TIMETuesday, November 136:30pmAMC Burbank 16125 East Palm AvenueBurbank, CA 91502

Let me know what you think!

Happy Birthday, CC! You're 6!

To contact us Click HERE

Happy Birthday, my little bear! I can't believe it's been six years since I first laid eyes on you.

I want you to know that you are a true joy and a shining light in your daddy's and my eyes. You're growing up to be such a kind, thoughtful and brilliant little girl.

You've gone through so many changes this year, and you've handled them all with such grace -- as you have with other changes in your little life.

I'm proud of you and love you more than you will ever know.

'Ice Age: Continental Drift' DVD Review

To contact us Click HERE

Our toothy prehistoric heroes are back for a fourth installment in Ice Age: Continental Drift, and the Blu-ray/DVD ($39.99) is hitting store shelves on December 11.

CC and I had the chance to dive into the icy adventure on DVD, courtesy of 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment, and this incarnation of the popular Blue Sky Studios film franchise has families breaking apart -- along with the ice -- and learning what it takes to adjust to a few growing pains.

Manny (voiced by Ray Romano), Diego (Denis Leary) and Sid (John Leguizamo) hit the high seas when the continent starts to break apart, but not before Manny gets a dose of teenage embarrassment and frustration, courtesy of his daughter, Peaches (Keke Palmer), who's trying to impress a cute boy, er, woolly mammoth (Drake).

The trio of friends encounter a rag-tag group of pirates, led by a ruthless gorilla (Peter Dinklage) with a toothy grin that could use a few Crest White Strips. Using their wits to outsmart these marauders, Manny, Diego and Sid must find a way to reunite the herd -- all while dealing with Sid's seemingly senile grandmother (Wanda Sykes).

CC enjoyed the icy adventure, and for me it's always fun to check out the voice cast. (I especially love John Leguizamo's Sid!) That, and Scrat. That poor prehistoric squirrel can't ever seem to get that acorn -- and the clever ways he always misses it is a fun trademark of the series.

The movie itself is light and a fun weekend distraction. Older kids should be able to empathize with the challenges of being a teenager and dealing with an especially protective parent. Younger kids will love the colorful animation and the silly crew of animals.


For those of you in Los Angeles, the Beverly Center is hosting an Ice Age Ice Palace display through the holidays. The 30-foot dome will offer footage from the movie, as well as falling snow and a light show.

Enjoy!

Jimmy D's Breakfast Minis (GIVEAWAY CLOSED!)

To contact us Click HERE
Is your schedule as packed as mine is? We tend to get super busy this time of year with family activities; Fall Festivals, Trick or Treating, or just playing outside in the cooler weather. Breakfast can be a free for all, especially on the weekends when we're trying to rush out the door. Jimmy Dean thought they could help me with that morning rush, and asked me to sample their new Jimmy D's Breakfast Minis.


Jimmy D's Breakfast Minis are cute little breakfast sandwiches featuring turkey sausage. Breakfast Minis contain 11 grams of protein and only 230 calories per serving, and are ready to eat in less than two minutes. Seriously! You just pop them in the microwave! Here is a shot of them fresh from the microwave:
They taste really great too! They're a perfect size for kids, or pair them with some yogurt or fresh fruit for yourself. I don't usually keep frozen breakfasts like this on hand, but if I know we have a crazy morning coming up I'd definitely buy Jimmy D's Breakfast Minis again. You can't beat the convenience factor, and I like that they offer a good amount of protein.

You'll also want to know that Jimmy Dean is hosting a fun sweepstakes on their Facebook page called “52 Ways to Deliver Great Days,” where each week for the next year Jimmy Dean is giving away a different prize (they change up the prize every Monday) to their fans who answer the question of the week about how they help deliver great days to their family and friends. To enter, visit their Facebook page (a text entry is worth 1 sweeps entry, photo is worth 5 sweeps entries and video is worth 10 sweeps entries).  

WIN IT!! 
Winner has been contacted. Thanks to all who entered!

One reader will win three coupons good for any Jimmy Dean product. Coupons expire 7/31/2012.

To enter, leave a comment letting me know what makes your morning rush so crazy. Are you scrambling to get to work? To get the kids off to school? Waking up too early with a newborn? 

Comments will close at midnight, November 6, 2011. A winner will be randomly selected and notified via e-mail on November 7, 2011. Winner will have 48-hours to claim their prize. If prize is not claimed within 48-hours it will be considered forfeited and a new winner will be selected. Open to US addresses only, please.

Keeping it real: I received complementary coupons for Jimmy Dean products for review and giveaway purposes.

Sam's Club and Chex Mix for the Holidays (GIVEAWAY CLOSED)

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Who doesn't love Chex Mix? Well, okay...I don't. At least not the traditional kind. BUT! There are so many other varieties and other things to do with Chex that I do love! Like Muddy Buddies...Mmmmmmm I love those!

Sam's Club and Chex want to let you know that there are a TON of different ways to spice up your Chex Mix. They have an interesting idea they're calling a Sam´s Club Chex Party Mix-Change. It's like a cookie swap...but with Chex Mix! Sam's Club has everything you'll need for your party. And since most Chex Mix recipes can be made in fifteen minutes or so, you'll have more time to actually enjoy your party and guests!

Here is all you need to know to host a fabulous Sam's Club Chex Party Mix-Change:

• Set the date and spread the word. Announce your Chex Party Mix-Change using some of these festive invites.
• Mix it up. Use these mouth-watering Chex recipe cards including Chex Pumpkin Pie Crunch and Hot Buttered Yum Chex Mix and this shopping list to make party prep a snap.
• Share the fun. Use some of these easy tips & tricks to add some extra flare to your party and check out some of the packaging ideas so your guests don´t go home empty handed.

Visit ChexPartyMixChange.com for even more party-planning tips and be sure to also check out Sam´s Club, your one stop Chex spot that has everything you need to throw a Chex Party Mix-Change!

Our schedule doesn't allow us time to host a party, but I sure to plan to make some Chex Mix for our holiday road trips! I think it would even make a great Christmas Eve snack! I'm leaning towards the Chex Peanut Butter and Chocolate Blast!. Which sound good to you?

******************************WIN IT!!!*************************************
Winner has been notified. Thanks to all who entered!


One of you will win a prize pack that will get you well on your way to hosting your own party. You'll win a $25 Sam's Club gift card and a big Sam's Club size box of Chex.

To enter, leave a comment letting me know your favorite thing to do with Chex.

Comments will close at midnight EST December 20, 2011. A winner will be randomly selected and notified on December 21, 2011. Winner will have 48-hours to claim their prize. If not claimed, prize will be considered to be forfeited and a new winner will be selected. Open to US addresses only, please.

Keeping it real: We received the prize pack pictured above for review purposes. Disclosure: The Sam´s Club gift card, information, and giveaway have been provided by Sam´s Club, Chex Party Mix and General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

Coming Attraction: 'Littlest Pet Shop' Premieres on The Hub + 'My Little Pony'

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'Littlest Pet Shop' on The Hub

The Hub has an exciting Saturday planned -- for those kids, including my own little girl, who are crazy about a certain group of ponies, as well as a new herd of colorful, talking creatures.

In addition to airing the season premiere of My Little Pony Friendship is Magic (Saturday at 10 a.m. ET/7 a.m. PT), The Hub will premiere a new series, Littlest Pet Shop (Saturday at 11 a.m. ET/8 a.m. PT).

CC and I caught a sneak peek of Littlest Pet Shop, and it looks like a clever and colorful Saturday morning addition. The show centers on Blythe Baxter, a little girl who has moved to the Manhattan-esque big city with her pilot dad (sans mom, but that goes unexplained). Blythe is precocious and very sure of herself -- a positive trait I love for my daughter to see.

In fact, when she bumps into a couple of "mean girls," she stands up for herself from the get-go. Talk about a great example for little girls.

Blythe and her father move into an apartment above the Littlest Pet Shop, which is in danger of closing. In the opening two episodes, this fashion-forward little girl discovers that she can talk to the little critters -- which include a monkey, dog, gecko, hedgehog (not a porcupine!) and a skunk -- and that they need her help.

But can Blythe help save the pet shop?

The show is gorgeously animated, with candy-colored animals, cityscapes and fashion. It definitely pops off the screen. What's also interesting is the pairing of Littlest Pet Shop alongside My Little Pony. Both shows seem to have the same smart-girl sensibilities. That is, they're headlined by clever girls who aren't afraid to show off their smarts -- or their (often dry) senses of humor. They're also confident enough to put friends in their place, should they go off track.

CC enjoyed the episodes -- and especially loved when Littlest Pet Shop dog Zoe burst out into song. Look forward to checking out more!

Free Screening: 'Dino Time'

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Just in case you missed catching a movie with the kiddos over the long weekend, here's your chance to snag a sneak peek of Dino Time, from Clarius Entertainment, for free!

While the animated kids' film doesn't hit theaters until Dec. 7, you can take the kiddos to an advanced screening tomorrow night in Burbank. (See info below.)

Featuring voice talent from Jane Lynch (she's everywhere these days!), Melanie Griffith, Rob Schneider and Stephen and William Baldwin, Dino Time is about three kids -- Ernie, Julia and Max -- who accidentally turn on a time machine in Max's dad's workshop and head back in time 65 million years. The kids are adopted by a friendly dinosaur family, which tries to protect them from the grumpier dinos, while the kids' parents try to find a way back for them.

Here's where and how you and the kids can see the film: Go to www.gofobo.com/rsvp to download free tickets with the code LAMOMS41RL

DINO TIMETuesday, November 136:30pmAMC Burbank 16125 East Palm AvenueBurbank, CA 91502

Let me know what you think!

Happy Birthday, CC! You're 6!

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Happy Birthday, my little bear! I can't believe it's been six years since I first laid eyes on you.

I want you to know that you are a true joy and a shining light in your daddy's and my eyes. You're growing up to be such a kind, thoughtful and brilliant little girl.

You've gone through so many changes this year, and you've handled them all with such grace -- as you have with other changes in your little life.

I'm proud of you and love you more than you will ever know.

'Ice Age: Continental Drift' DVD Review

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Our toothy prehistoric heroes are back for a fourth installment in Ice Age: Continental Drift, and the Blu-ray/DVD ($39.99) is hitting store shelves on December 11.

CC and I had the chance to dive into the icy adventure on DVD, courtesy of 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment, and this incarnation of the popular Blue Sky Studios film franchise has families breaking apart -- along with the ice -- and learning what it takes to adjust to a few growing pains.

Manny (voiced by Ray Romano), Diego (Denis Leary) and Sid (John Leguizamo) hit the high seas when the continent starts to break apart, but not before Manny gets a dose of teenage embarrassment and frustration, courtesy of his daughter, Peaches (Keke Palmer), who's trying to impress a cute boy, er, woolly mammoth (Drake).

The trio of friends encounter a rag-tag group of pirates, led by a ruthless gorilla (Peter Dinklage) with a toothy grin that could use a few Crest White Strips. Using their wits to outsmart these marauders, Manny, Diego and Sid must find a way to reunite the herd -- all while dealing with Sid's seemingly senile grandmother (Wanda Sykes).

CC enjoyed the icy adventure, and for me it's always fun to check out the voice cast. (I especially love John Leguizamo's Sid!) That, and Scrat. That poor prehistoric squirrel can't ever seem to get that acorn -- and the clever ways he always misses it is a fun trademark of the series.

The movie itself is light and a fun weekend distraction. Older kids should be able to empathize with the challenges of being a teenager and dealing with an especially protective parent. Younger kids will love the colorful animation and the silly crew of animals.


For those of you in Los Angeles, the Beverly Center is hosting an Ice Age Ice Palace display through the holidays. The 30-foot dome will offer footage from the movie, as well as falling snow and a light show.

Enjoy!

Get Creative With Holiday Decor + Giveaway *Sponsored*

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I love Christmas. It's such an amazingly special time of year, when everyone seems eager and happy and excited about something completely unexpected. Maybe it's the presents ... or maybe it's anticipating the surprise on your husband or child's face when they unwrap the gifts you've been dying to give them.

It's also the time of year when our homes take on a completely different look for just a few weeks. Whether it's a huge Christmas tree or a home all decked out in ceramic villages and tons of garland, decorations really seem to take center stage. (See below for a holiday decor giveaway!)

This year, I wanted to add some creative Christmas-y touches around our apartment, and I got a little inspiration from lifestyle expert Brooke Peterson's blog, as well as a lot of help and supplies from Sam's Club.


First of all, I love lights -- and I love pairing them with ornaments. So I thought it would be fun, after taking a look at this post from Brooke, to add colorful ornaments and lights to glass vases. So I picked up a couple packages of 25 ornaments (each for less than $15 at Sam's), as well as a roll of warm-white LED lights (less than $20).

As you can see from the top pic, the effect is gorgeous. Warm, colorful, unexpected and -- most of all -- easy!

CC even got in on the act, too.


I loved that the project was so child-friendly -- and something you couldn't really mess up. And you could decorate the vases with an assortment of colors, any way you liked.

It just goes to show that Christmas decorating doesn't have to be a terrifying chore. In fact, it was such a cheerful family project.

And that's what cheer is ... spending time with family and getting creative with our home. Everyone is involved and, best of all, together.

*** GIVEAWAY ***

I'm giving away a holiday decorating gift basket, worth more than $50 and courtesy of Sam's Club, that includes decorative mesh ribbon, holiday ribbon, shatterproof ornaments and a Starbucks gift set.

To enter, just leave a comment telling me favorite ways you like to decorate your home.

For more chances to win, follow me on Twitter and retweet this giveaway. I'm at @la_story. Or you can "Like" the L.A. Story Facebook page and share the giveaway.

Just be sure to leave extra comments telling me you did so.

Good luck, and I will announce the winner on Friday, December 14!

(Disclosure: This is a sponsored post, for which I have been compensated. However, all opinions expressed here are my own.)