Special Guest Post: The Tree is the Ultimate Giver

The Tree is the Ultimate Giver

The Giving Tree written by Shel Silverstein was published on October 7, 1964. This was a book read to me as a child in school and from then on, forever in my heart and mind.

No matter how fuzzy the details, I always remember how the tree was so giving, even to the point of being cut down to a stump.

Published 52 years ago, yet ignites an interesting perspective on today’s climate

change while continuing to reflect on humanity. There’s a lot of climate change clamor going on, more than ever. In the post five decade memoirs behind the meaning of The Giving Tree, could humanity be The Boy?

Here we have this beautiful, sweet and very giving apple tree, giving her harvest and soul to The Boy. Just as trees do for us everyday. They provide us with fresh air, shade and beauty. Wildlife call the tree home and some trees produce a variety of extraordinary fruits and nuts. And what are we doing as humans? Cutting them down, taking them for granted, over consuming products and not doing enough research on corporations to ensure ethical environmental practices.

As we nourish our bodies with apples, we can look upon ourselves as a species and take the time to dig intensely into what’s going on in our industrialized world. We must strive everyday, as individuals and as a community to not be The Boy.

Disclosure: Sponsored Guests Posts are provided by the sponsoring party and may not reflect the thoughts, feelings or personal beliefs of Mom Loves 2 Read.

Making Your Kitchen Environmentally Friendly #guest post

Images by georgiapeachez used under Creative Commons License.

Going green in your kitchen might be a lot easier than you first think. Manufacturers and designers know that eco-friendly appliances are in big demand and there are loads of products out there to fill the market. However, you don't have to spend hundreds of dollars to do your part. Take a look at these simple yet effective tips to achieve a greener home.





Vintage island

If you're thinking of adding an island to the layout of your kitchen, get creative and save some cash. You can find an old table then sand it down, paint it in a favorite color and give it a varnish. Then

you can add some storage fittings underneath if needed. It will give your kitchen some vintage charm and a totally unique look.

Herb garden

Images by Dianna Ott used under Creative Commons License.

We've all bought a herb plant, used it once then watched it shrivel up and die before we next use it. Dedicate a space near the window where you can place a selection of herbs and make reminders to look after and water them. In the long run you will save money, add extra flavor to your meals and brighten up your windowsill.





Can it be repaired?

So the washing machine is quite old and has started playing up? Before taking it to the tip and investing in a new one, ask a professional to take a look at it and see if it can be fixed. Even if it only has a few more months left in it, you'll save on taking up wastage space. When you do dispose of it, make sure you take it to a special recycling park.





Cook smart

Use your microwave when you can in order to save energy used when using your oven. Also cook in batches so that you use the oven once rather than every night. You could make meals that can be eaten cold or heated up quickly in the microwave. Also try to keep your food fresh rather than frozen in order to shorten cooking times.





Built in compost bin

Compost bins utilise food wastage by feeding your garden's soil. You might even want to use it in your green house or vegetable patch. Make one by storing a bin under the worktop and throwing in your food wastage after every meal. Make sure to keep your eye on it and take it out every few days so that you don't get a funny smell!





Buy energy star appliances

When it does come down to buying appliances, look out for the energy stars. Americans save $30 billion by choosing energy star rated products. Although they might initially be more expensive than other models, the end saving is totally worth it.



 It's the little things that make a big difference, so remember to try and do your bit with the kitchen. A happy kitchen will make for a happy home and happy cooking! Have fun with it.

Disclosure: This post created in cooperation with the sponsor.  All links, content and photos provided by sponsor. Although some compensation was received for this post, all posts are approved based on reader interests.   I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Muay Thai Training in Thailand – A Growing Travel Trend

Welcome to Mom Loves 2 Read.  Today I have a special Guest Post about an amazing over seas travel destination ~ Thailand!

Travelling in foreign countries for various purposes has started since the Middle Age. Today, thanks to the fast progress of technology, people have many different transportation options which make travelling much easier. This is the reason why the number of foreign tourists in every country is increasing every year. People want to travel abroad in order to learn more about some countries, to relax and enjoy the time spent there.  Of course, if they have the chance to improve their health while they are staying there, their trip will be even better. If you are interested in something like that, feel free to travel to Thailand.

Thailand is a truly amazing country and everyone that has visited this Asian kingdom can confirm

that. Endless white sandy beaches, unexplored nature, pleasant and friendly people, low prices on products and services and Muay Thai. Yes. That’s right. Muay Thai or Thai Boxing was invented in Thailand and this is still the best place to start with Muay Thai training.

Many people use the chance to be on an active holiday when they are in Thailand. Just think about it. When you are not training in the camp, you can enjoy the natural wonders of Thailand. This is certainly something that will boost your health. Muay Thai is a fitness activity and combat sport that can be practiced by men and women of all ages. It improves the strength of the muscles of all body parts, strengthens the core, increases muscle mass, improves mobility, stabilizes weight and blood pressure and helps the overall mental health. In addition, Muay Thai students will improve their confidence, esteem and discipline. In other words, this is a complete workout for the body.

As previously mentioned, the best place to start this fitness journey is Suwit Muay Thai . The camp is found in the tourist places in Thailand so you won’t have trouble finding one. Follow the instructions of the professional trainers who work there are you will notice how your body and mind are becoming stronger and healthier.



*Kit* 

Disclosure: Guest Post in collaboration with Kit from Suwit Muay Thai.  A small compensation was received for submission of this post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Upgrading Your Playroom In Style #craft #diy

If I say to you 'the kids playroom', what do you see? 

A cave of abandoned sippy cups, finger painting gone wrong, discarded toys and scribbles on the wall? Wrong. The kids' playroom doesn't need to mean mayhem. With a little creativity and care you can turn this environment from chaotic, into an area where your kids can roam free and express themselves, without taking it out on the wallpaper. While you're at it, you can even help them learn as

they play. Here's a few fun ideas to spruce up the kids' playroom.



Get Creative!



If you're keen for your kids to develop their creative side but minimize the mess then there's a few options to keep both camps happy. Setting up a drawing board and easel encourages budding artists, lets them look and feel the part. So they can get in the zone but keep the painting in one area. Alternatively if you'd like to encourage your kids to personalize their playroom then go all out with drawing-friendly wallpaper. This comes in a variety of styles including those printed with borders and picture frames in a range of sizes. This helps them draw between the lines and create their own 'photos' of friends, family and pets. So they can start their own DIY at an early age!



If that's one step too far then incorporating blackboards and slates into the playroom allows your kids to add their own touch without any permanent damage. This kind of material can be kept to the wall or even a section of flooring so the kids can draw on their own snakes and ladders or hopscotch games with chalk. Adding this material on to storage can also encourage the kids to clean up. For example, chalking labels on to drawers for different items i.e. dolls, crayons and books can help them to learn how to organize their toys and keep the playroom tidy. Alternatively, you could even create a blackboard wall for the kids, meaning endless fun without the worry!

Another option where you can both get involved is sewing. This can turn out to be a lot more fun than it first seems. You can handle the sewing while your kids pitch in with design ideas and pick their favorite colors. You could also choose to invest in a child-friendly sewing machine too so your children can join in entirely and learn a new skill. You can create everything from pillowcases to patchwork style quilts and curtains; with a sewing machine no idea is too big or small.  My girls and I are learning to sew together.  We have a wonderful teacher in their grandmother who sews 18" doll clothes for their American Girl Dolls and other 18" dolls.  She is a great artistic inspiration for our sewing projects.



Another fun way to get creative and crafty is by repurposing items and making them into new and functional things.  My girls and I too this old TV cabinet and turned it into a fun and funky doll clothes wardrobe:

 

Our latest crafty creations use cardboard boxes and empty cereal boxes to create furniture and accessories for the girls doll collection - they have a lot of fun coming up with new and exciting ways to use what normally would be trash to create fun new treasures!



From designing your own interiors to sketching games and pictures, these are just a few ideas to get you inspired to spruce up your kids' playroom. Adding a personal touch whether it's through sewing your own curtains, or customizing storage, will turn the playroom into a place you'll both love.

Image by hownowdesign used under the Creative Commons license.

Disclosure:n Information and links in this post provided in collaboration with travel, tech and fashion representatives. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Lifebank USA ~ Saving more cells. Storing more hope. $500 Contest and information #sp

There’s only one
opportunity to save your baby’s stem cells for the future...

As an expectant parent, your baby’s health means everything.
Right now, he or she is protected in the womb and will soon enter the world.
There is a lot to think about and prepare for, but an invaluable step you can
take when your child is born is to preserve his/her stem-cell rich cord and
placenta blood The ability of stem

cells to save lives via cord blood banking
has proven successful for replacing abnormal or diseased cells, and treating
life-threatening blood disorders such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.  In fact, since 1988 stem cell transplants
have been used to treat some 80 diseases.

"LifebankUSA is a pioneer in placenta-stem cell
technology. Our stem cell banking program meets and exceeds the highest
standards in the industry-and we are the only company that can provide access
to technology that allows you to boost the number of cells you can recover
after birth."

- Robert Hariri, MD, PhD  ~ CEO and Founder of LifebankUSA

Right now Lifebank USA has a Contest going on at their Facebook page for $500 off Cord Blood Banking. You can check it out by clicking on any of the photos in this post.

ABOUT LIFEBANKUSA

As the only company that offers cord blood, placenta blood and tissue banking -- and the first to release placenta-derived stem cells for a successful transplant -- New Jersey-based LifebankUSA is a technological leader that is pioneering key medical innovations in the field.  Owned by the Celgene Corporation, a world-class biopharmaceutical company, LifebankUSA also operates a robust donation program and collects cells from anywhere in the US for use primarily in advancing medical research.

Disclosure: Mom Loves 2 Read did receive a small compensation for sharing this information with our readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Find great teaching aids from UI School Supply like the game Qwirkle! #review #sp

With school now in session, it is that time of year again to think about how we as parents, grandparents and teachers can aid our young students in learning at home as well as at school.  One of my favorite ways to have my children continue "learning" on weekends and school breaks is to play interactive games.  I love to

find games and toys that are not only fun, but also teach them critical thinking and have educational value.



One of our favorite games is called Qwirkle.  I found Qwirkle on the UI School Supply website along with many other great teaching aids.  Qwirkle is a fun game for kids of all ages that is easy to play.  Children, and adults, match colors and shapes, but this game also
requires tactical maneuvers and well-planned strategy. Players each earn points by
building rows and columns of blocks that share a common shape or color.
It is on the order of dominoes yet is easy enough for even preschoolers to play.



I love that Qwirkle can be played by 2 to 4 players from a family or even a small group of children in a classroom environment.  It is fun for every player.

Disclosure: Mom Loves 2 Read did receive compensation for this post. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Finding the right printer can be a hassel ~ here are some tips for choosing the best one for your needs ~ #spon

Guest post Co-created with Web Outreach
Team~

Finding the right printer
for your family office

Is

there any more high maintenance household appliance than the
printer? It seems every time you need to print a single sheet,
you must fetch ink, shuffle the paper into the feed in just the
right way and cross your fingers that it’s not in a bad mood.
‘Surely’, you cry out in horror, ‘surely printing can’t be like
this for everyone?’ If this sounds a bit like you, you
may have a last-gen printer. Things have significantly improved

in the world of putting ink to paper, so here are some of the
options worth perusing for your printing requirements.

Laser
printers

This

first thing you’ll need to work out is if you need a laser or an
inkjet printer. If slick, superfast and efficient monochrome
printing is what you need, look no further than the laser, the
best way to print no frills, multiple documents on a budget.
These are often a little more compact than the all-in-one inkjet
models, but can have fun features like duplex printing and
speeds of up to 30 ppm (pages per minute). In terms of economy,
you can bag a reliable ink brand like
Canon or Brother for around $100, and printer toner tends to
show a high yield at around $20 a cartridge.

Inkjet
printers

Families,

however, may have more colorful requirements, such as vivid
school presentations, wall charts and photo printing. This is
where the inkjet comes in to play. Most models are now bundled
with scanners, copiers and wireless connectivity as standard.
Epson is probably one of the more popular brands, and a slick,
multifunctional model with color document preview and wireless
printing comes in at around $70. The one disadvantage to inkjets
is the ink usage, which tends to be less than economical, and a
bit of upkeep is required to keep print heads clean and in
alignment so as to keep images crisp.

The

verdict? If you want an easy life, laser printers will always win
for speed, compactness and effortlessness. If you are, on the
other hand, in the market for beautiful documents, and glossy
results, then inkjets are the way to go. Just remember to give
your inkjet printer a little maintenance, every so often, and it
should serve you well.



I know that I (Susan) use my printer daily and find that these tips on keeping the heads clean and maintaining my printer does keep it working longer and more efficiently.  I hope this article helps you choose what is best for your needs.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored guest post written in corroboration with the sponsor specifically for Mom Loves 2 Read. Mom Loves 2 Read did receive compensation for this post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

(Coupon} Sizzle up Your Summer with this $3 for $25 Deal from Restaurant.com ~ HURRY only good for 6/20/14 #ad #coupon

finished

Free Women's Fragrance & 3 More Reasons to Visit BeautyEncounter.com Today #sponsor

Sponsored Guest Post:

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fragrance vial sets, gift sets for dad, your daily discounts and a chance to join this month’s contest. 

Check out why you have to visit Beauty Encounter today.

1. Free Fragrance Vial Set.  Until June 14, Beauty Encounter gives tributes to graduates of batch 2014. To celebrate this milestone, your most-loved one-stop-shop is giving away men and women’s fragrance vial sets of your choice. Each set comes for free in every single purchase worth at least $75 at checkout.

2. Gift Sets for Dad.   Father’s Day is just a few days away so make sure you have something wrapped for dad. This week, you can enjoy up to 39% off on Bvlgari Man sets. Surely, this is something you can’t let pass. Still not sure what to give dad? Check out BeautyEncounter.com for more gift ideas.

3. Daily Discounts.   From 15%-30% off, enjoy great discounts at Beauty Encounter with your bE Savvy Instant Savings Pass. Use Beauty Encounter promo codes when shopping for regular items, hot deals and clearance sale. You’ll be surprised at how much further discount you’re going to enjoy from Beauty Encounter’s already reduced prices.

4. June Contest.   Beauty Encounter is known for their monthly contests and giveaways. Exciting prizes are lined up for the lucky winners. This month, you can get a chance to win an eGift card worth $100. Use the prize to give dad or the new-grad a gift they’ll love. All you need to do is have your Pinterest account ready and pin away!

Man, woman or child, there’s always fragrances, beauty and grooming products you can find at Beauty Encounter.

Disclosure: Mom Loves 2 Read received a small compensation for this sponsored post.  However, I only promote information and sponsors that I feel my readers would be interested in. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Having a Fun Vacation does not mean you break the bank ~ Here are some ways to save money and still have a great family vacation

Disclosure:  This post is brought to you by Julie Brooks



How to Save Money in Your Family Holiday Break



If you are worried about how you can possibly afford to get away
on a family holiday this year don’t despair, there are plenty of
things you can do to reduce the costs of this break. Spending less
money doesn’t have to mean sacrificing fun and comfort, it often
just requires making better informed choices. So let’s look at
some of the cost-saving tips that is going to allow your family to
have a much deserved holiday break this year.



How to choose the right tour operator



A package holiday is usually the best way to go if you are trying
to save money. Low-cost family holidays can be achieved if you’ll
compare major tour
operators to find the best packages that perfectly
complement your budget. There are some amazing deals to be found –
especially if you are willing to be flexible about

destination and
travel dates. If you haven’t taken the time to compare what the
major tour operators are offering, you are probably not getting
the lowest-cost option.



Research your destination for special deals on tourist
attractions, entertainment, and travel.



A common reason for why holidaymakers end up missing out on
possible savings is they are just not aware of them. Most people
only come across discounts by accident by picking up a tourist
magazine or because of they have been handed a flyer.



If you actively seek out special deals before you arrive, you are
going to be in a much better position to make significant savings.
You can do most of your research online – don’t forget to check
out any websites associated with tourist attractions as these will
often contain information about promotions.



Cook your own meals



Eating out on holiday is fun, but you don’t have to do this all
the time. You can save money by buying some groceries and
occasionally cooking your own meals. It can also be a good idea to
prepare snacks for when you are going to the beach or on a tour.
Sometimes paying a little extra for accommodation
with cooking facilities can end up cutting your food
expenditure significantly. You could even attend a cooking class,
and then surprise your family with a local dish that you prepared.



The key to a cheaper holiday is to do your homework and take
advantage of any special deals. Don’t forget there are also likely
to be plenty of free stuff to do at your destination. One of the
other nice things about doing a bit of research beforehand, is you
can find exciting opportunities that you might otherwise have
missed.

Disclosure: Mom Loves 2 Read did receive compensation for the content in this post. Mom Loves 2 Read only posts compensated content that relates to the readers of this blog and adheres to the family friendly content. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Wellness Natural Food for Pets ~ What's in Your Bag? #checkyourbag

 Disclaimer: This is a paid advertorial.

How much do you know about the ingredients in your dog food bag?  Are you feeding your pet the healthiest food you can?  Did you know that a diet formulated with wholesome, natural
ingredients could help your dog live a longer, healthier life, but that most
dog foods aren’t made up of natural ingredients?

Wellness recipes do not include added artificial colors,
flavors or ingredients, and they’ve even created a helpful  “Check Your Bag” website
that you can use to compare their natural dog food to those from some

competitors
who claim to be natural.  I for one, did not know that my dog food does not have the same quality, natural ingredients that Wellness Pet Food does - I checked the comparison list and our dog food, although Vet Recommended, does not measure up to Wellness.  

Why not check yours too and let me know how it compares?

Wellness Pet Food uses natural,
high-quality proteins and fats in their dog food recipes. They also include

fruits
and vegetables for natural vitamins, minerals and other benefits, especially
antioxidants that occur in blueberries, cranberries and some vegetables, which help
make their dog food products some of the healthiest options in the marketplace.

Sounds good to me.  I love knowing that my dog is getting the best nutrition she can to keep her healthy and strong for as long as possible.  She is a very important part of our family and I cannot imagine feeding her anything but natural, nutritious, Vet-recommended food.

Some of the biggest benefits to Wellness® Complete Health®
Recipes include:

·        *
Live Active Probiotics – Added after the cooking
process to promote a healthy intestinal tract and overall digestive health at
guaranteed levels

·        *
Omega 3 & 6 Mix – Offering guaranteed levels
of essential fatty acids for cellular function and healthy skin

·        * 
Essential Vitamins & Minerals – Designed for
cellular health, immunity and disease resistance

·        *
Fruit & Veggie Antioxidants – A proactive
step in improving your pet’s nutrition

·        * 
Rigorous Safety Testing – A Quality Assurance program
that maintains strict standards for food safety

·        *
Excellent Nutritional Standards – Every batch of
dry food is tested throughout the entire manufacturing process, from its basic
ingredients to the finished products

 

Disclosure:  Although I did receive compensation for this post, the opinions are 100% my own.  I do not accept compensated posts about any website or product that I do no think my readers will like. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Win $100 from Sitara Collections Sweepstakes

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored sweepstakes post.



What would you purchase with $100?  Sitara Collections is offering a $100 Sweepstakes right now on their Website - They have offered me the opportunity to post the sweepstakes entry form right here on my blog for my readers to enter!  I went to the website to check it out and I found that their products are hand-crafted with quality materials.



There is a huge variety of products offered on Sitara Collections including hand made jewelry, children's toys and items, scarves, purses, picture frames, holiday ornaments, decorative cushion covers and many more great items.  With a $100 prize - there are many items you could choose from - enter below for a chance to WIN this great sweepstakes prize!

Disclosure: I received compensation in the form of free items from the sponsor mentioned above in exchange for this post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Don't wait til the last minute - get your custom PROM dress now at Dress First!

DressFirst.com is an online site selling wedding dresses, prom
dresses, evening dresses, holiday dresses, homecoming dresses, or
dresses for any special occasion or just to dress up for an evening out.  And, if that isn't enough of an enticement, All the dresses on their website can be custom made to fit your size if you send them your exact measurements!  You can customize your dress just as if

you had a personal seamstress creating your perfect fit!



Don't worry, that isn't all the great things I have to say about DressFirst.com's Prom Dresses - they also have a huge variety of colors and designs for each style of dress - if you like the dress but not the color - just choose the colors you want!  Not sure it is the exact color?  not a problem, you can also order a material swatch
to ensure your color selection is perfect.



Take a look at some of the discount prom dresses I found that I like:



Whether you prefer long and flowy . . .

 Or short and sassy . . .

You can find the perfect Prom Dress at DressFirst.com.  Oh, and don't forget the accessories!  They also have a variety of beautiful accessories to match each dress.  Want to add a wrap?  Need the perfect shoes or jewelry?  Check them out before going anywhere else.

Disclosure: I received a small compensation for this post.  I  personally went to the website and looked it over before writing my opinion. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Show your Holiday Spirit With the Gift of E - Send ebooks this Christmas! #openroadmedia

During this Busy Holiday Season, many are searching for just the perfect gift, but we all want to find them at the perfect price too.  So, while you are online searching for holiday gifts for family and friends, why not give ebooks a try this year?  Ebooks are personal, immediate, and easy.  With ebooks you can find something for everyone at any age.  Ebooks come in all genres, age ranges and personal styles.  From newborn picture ebooks, children's interactive, middle grade adventures, young adult, mystery, romance, science fiction and everything else.  There are even holiday specials in ebooks!

Avoid the headache of crowded malls,
long lines at the post office, and the crushing feeling that time is running
out with e-gifting instead! Giving an ebook is personal,
immediate and easy. It will save you precious time worrying about packaging,
delivery, and will help with your tech street-cred.

This year the folks at Open Road Media, a digital publisher, featuring over 4,000 ebooks, have put together a gift guide to help you shop for
every person on your list!  There are different categories to choose from,
different price ranges and you can even see all the covers and click to
read the blurb to find out what the book is all about before
purchasing.



Don’t
know how to give an ebook? Watch how-to videos to quickly learn how
to give an ebook for each reading device. And if you’d prefer written instructions, they have those too!

And
don’t forget to treat yourself this holiday season!
You deserve it after all your hard work!

Those of you who regularly visit Mom Loves 2 Read know that books and
ebooks would be the Perfect Gift for any member of My family.  So, if
you have readers, reluctant readers or avid book Devourers in your list
of family and friends to buy for this season - check out this great
place to grab some amazing ebooks at great values!  Something for
everyone in the family! And of course you are always welcome to send ME ebooks - lol  I can't get enough of reading!

Disclosure: This is a paid sponsored post.  I did receive compensation for posting about Gift of E.  Regardless ~ I only post about sponsors who I personally believe my readers will like or want to engage with. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

My Perfect Gift Holiday Wishlist Giveaway Event ~ Enter to WIN an item on your wishlist up to $250 value!

contest has ended

Nov 1st DROP NIGHT ~ Halloween Throwback Theme - so much fun with City Dance!

FRIDAY- DROP!Come dressed in your favorite Costume for this fun for all Drop Night at Inspired Arts Academy!

It's Halloween Throwback night at IAA with City Dance
superstars!

KIDS- Listen to spooky music, learn

'thriller' under the strobe lights, make spooky night scene
art, play Halloween games, come dressed in your Halloween costume, and watch
Shrek’s Halloween!

SUPPORT CITY DANCE- City Dance is a non for profit organization
committed to changing lives through dance and arts mentorships in the heart of
Illinois.

City Dance http://citydancepeoria.org/

RVSP- on facebook! https://www.facebook.com/events/247829125367039/

Disclosure: Mom Loves 2 Read and Inspired Arts Academy have a swap partnership. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Spirituality for Kids ~ a free online program that encourages children to make a difference in the world around them! Review on Mom Loves 2 Read

Spirituality For Kids is a free online program that you and your child can do together. Don’t wait another minute!

Spirituality for Kids is back with an entertaining, self-guided
program that encourages children to reflect on their actions, to see
challenges as opportunities, to develop self-worth, and to activate the
desire to make a difference in the world around them. 



To make sure the child is grasping the concepts, there are five
“checkpoints” throughout the lessons. Each “checkpoint” is an activity
that will help the parent measure their child’s understanding of the spiritual
concepts covered along the way. If you notice your child is having a
challenging time understanding a concept, revisit a video lesson more
than once and discuss a concept together several times.



Spirituality
for Kids is a completely self-paced and flexible program based upon
your child’s needs. You can determine the amount of time needed for each
lesson, be that a single day or stretched out over a longer period of
time.

My Review:

Spirituality for Kids is a great free online program that has an abundance of lessons that are fun for the whole family.  Each lesson has step by step building blocks that teach children important spiritual lessons using games, videos, activities and fun to help them learn key morals and values.  Using the theme that "life is like a game" each story and lesson helps children learn at their own pace, while grasping key concepts like the importance of rules, being positive, inner strength, self-worth and their own unique abilities.



I started this lesson set with my youngest child - my 5 year old daughter.  We have only been working on it for a few days and already she is able to understand the value of rules.  She loves watching the video over and over and we stop from time to time to discuss what we just learned together.



I plan to continue this with her as well as add in my two older children over Christmas Break so they can also benefit from some of these wonderful lessons!

I definitely recommend that parents check out Spirituality for Kids online and see what you think!  I love that it makes discussing difficult issues easier for me as a parent and more fun for my kids.

Disclosure: I received free the item(s) mentioned in this post in exchange for my honest review.  Sponsored post: I will be compensated for posting.  Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Don't forget to DROP your kids ~ for a fun night of adventure while Mom and Dad go kidfree.

 

Friday, October 11
- "DROP" at Inspired Arts Academy

DROP
is a “drop off” program offered every Friday Night for parents to "drop
off" their kids in a safe and fun environment – for up to 3 hours. Kids
will enjoy the company of other kids and activities including: art
projects, dance lessons and games, theatrical performances, movies,
video games, tech opportunities, gymnastics, musical activities and
more. There will also be a pre-packaged snack and drink for every child.

 

My girls have been to DROP nights a couple times now and they absolutely love it.  There are usually quite a few of their friends from school, church and neighborhood friends, but they always come home talking about someone new they played with.  They love attending all the fun DROP night activities . . . check it out!

Where:  Inspired Arts Academy, located at 2137 South Main Street (the Field Shopping Center) in Morton.

When: 
6:00 PM
-
9:00 PM

Who:  Ages 3 and up. All kids attending DROP MUST be potty-trained.

How:  Just show up! For more information or to purchase sessions in advance, visit the Inspired Arts Academy website or call  (309) 340-4520.

  Cost:  1 session: $15; 5 sessions: $70 (save $5); 10 sessions: $130 (save $20); 20 sessions: $250 (save $50)

And don't forget they have classes for kids and adults too!

Disclosure: I receive free class credit in exchange for posting updates on IAA events.  Regardless, I only post about businesses and sponsors that I personally support. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Use Up those Expired Gymbucks now ~ Huge savings for Gymboree lovers ~ #affiliate

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Disclosure: I am an affliliate through Acceleration Parnters for Gymboree and Crazy 8.  Links in this post will take you to the affiliate sites.  I do receive a small compensation for purchases made through these links.  However there is no cost to you just by clicking or reading. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.