Pantene Review and Giveaway***CLOSED***

Have you tried one of Pantene's 4 main collections (Fine, Color, Curly, Medium)?

I got to try the Frizzy to Smooth Shampoo and Conditioner 2 in 1, Pantene Pro V Medium Thick Solutions. Summer takes a toll on my hair. My hair is really thick and dry. I like that Pantene has different collections because we are not all the same. My mom has fine, thin hair, so you can see we are very different. I also like the 2 in 1 feature. Who wants to be buying 2 separate bottles, one for shampoo and one for conditioner? Also who wants to be doing an extra step while bathing? I like the Frizzy to Smooth because when I come out of the shower, my hair is managable. And Pantene is helping my hair get stored to healthy hair.

Is your hair color damaged? I have a solution for you, Pantene Pro-V Color Hair Solutions Nourishing Treatment. Last year for some reason I decided to dye my hair light brown with highlights. When it was time for a touch up, I decided I really didn't like it and I went a little darker. For my wedding, I decided to go blondish. And then after my wedding and time for my touch up, I came back to my senses and said I wanted it all to be one color, my natural color. But after a year of dying my hair it is severely damaged. And now I am pregnant and can no longer dye my hair. So it is repair time. This solution nourishes color-treated or high-lighted hair. It is a weekly treatment used to help get moisture back into your hair, renews the hair fiber, and infuses hair with shine. I am treated my hair week by week to repair all the damage I have done. And week by week, my hair gets its shine restored.

You can get great salon looks with out the expensive cost of going to salons by using Pantene. Want to try Pantene on your hair? I have a giveaway for 1 lucky reader.

Giveaway: Win 2 products of your choice from the 4 collections (except sprays).

Here is how to enter:

1) Go to Pantene, and tell me what 2 products from the 4 collections, you want to try. (1 entry)

2) Tell me if your hair styles change in the summer due to the weather and how you adapt. (1 entry)

3) Like “Pantene North America”. (1 entry)

4) Follow @Pantene. (1 entry)

5) Tweet. (1 entry/per tweet, unlimited)

#Win 2 @Pantene products @independentmami ends 8/15 http://tinyurl.com/3wg86v5

This giveaway ends on 8/15 at 8 am. 1 winner will receive 2 Pantene products of their choice. Please leave your email in the comment. Winner will be notified by email and will have 24 hours to claim their prize. Open to US only. Good Luck.

*Disclosure-I received these 2 products of my choice to review. These are my honest opinions. These prducts have been Independentmami tested and Independentmami approved.

Pregnancy Diaries-Miscarriage

Imagine waking up at 15 weeks pregnant, and you are feeling labor contractions and bleeding. This is what happened to me last Monday. It was the scarriest thing that has happened.

I was going crazy and unsure what was going on. Luckily my husband was home and was with me. I went to the doctor. They rushed me to the ultrasound room. As I laid there waiting for them to start all I could do was continue crying. I had prayed, and prayed. Now, all I could do was cry. They started the ultrasound and there was my beautiful "Lil Bit". This is the nickname my husband has given our baby. She was moving like always. I could not even breath when they were showing me she was alive. The nurses had to try and calm me down so I could breath. "Lil Bit" was fine. She measured bigger than what I am. They measured my fluid. They measured my "Lil Bit". Checked all of "Lil Bit"'s limbs. And yes, they check the heart which is beating like crazy. After running all these tests, I was taken to my room. The nurse checked the baby's heart rate, which was 148. And then the doctor came to examine me. Like the doctor said, she does not know what happened but my body was trying to miscarry and then it just stopped. I know GOD has control!! I was placed on bed rest for a week, hoping my condition would improve.

I knew a week in bed would torture me since I am always on the go. But my baby is depending on me right now. I cannot control the things around me but I can stay healthy for my baby. "Lil Bit" depends on mom to be healthy. Even though I was home, I was not in the mood to talk, read, or blog. Life just stood still for me.

I returned to the doctor today. My early labor contractions have stopped, and so has the bleeding. But I have had really bad migraines, dizzy spells, blurred vision, and nausea. My doctor said it is due to my blood pressure yo-yo-ing. So I continue on bed rest for most of this week.

What I have learned-I cannot please everyone.
What I have changed-I have slowed down.

I am taking it easy for both my health and my baby's.

Questions-
How did I feel this week or what was going through my mind? The worst went through my mind. I was not ready to give up but feared the worst. I felt so depressed. And cried all week. I cried alone. I did not want to burden my husband or scare him, more than he already was.

Who was there for me? I am so glad I have a great husband who took care of me the entire week I was on bed rest. So did my son. They both waited on me hand and foot. My family and friends who came and sat with me in bed as soon as they found out. And some of my close blogger friends with their kind words and prayers.

Who did I tell and why? I did not want to tell anyone. Like I said, I was frozen. I person who always has alot to say, who was silenced. That morning I called my co-worker. She was the 1st to know. She is like a mother to me. I let her know the situation, so they would not be exoecting me at work. I then texted my sis-in-law who works at a doctor's office and is pregnant herself. But I got no answer. I then, sitting alone, woke my husband up. Fater leaving the doctor it was only a few hand full of people "the crew" and family who actually knew what was going on. I got out of engagements I had committed myself to personal, work, or blogging.

Why am I speaking now? I, with tears in my eyes, still am not really wanting to talk. But I felt alone. As I read stories online of others stories when I searched almost miscarry, I found nothing. But I had friends tell me great stories of friends they knew who had successful pregnancy. I want people to know that no matter what the situation a person is going through, they may act like everything is ok. Like they are so strong. But the tears and pain is inside. Yesterday was my birthday and the only wish I cried for was to be able to see my beautiful, healthy baby in a couple of months.

Winnie the Pooh movie review

WINNIE THE POOH hits the a theater near you on today, July 15. It is rated G. http://disney.go.com/pooh/home/

Walt Disney Animation Studios returns to the Hundred Acre Wood with “Winnie the Pooh,” the first big-screen Pooh adventure from Disney animation in more than 35 years. With the charm, wit and whimsy of the original featurettes, this all-new movie reunites audiences with the philosophical “bear of very little brain” and friends Tigger, Rabbit, Piglet, Kanga, Roo—and last, but certainly not least, Eeyore, who has lost his tail. “Well a tail is either there or it isn’t there,” said Pooh. “And yours isn’t… there.” Owl sends the whole gang on a wild quest to save Christopher Robin from an imaginary culprit. It turns out to be a very busy day for a bear who simply set out to find some hunny. Inspired by five stories from A.A. Milne’s books in Disney’s classic, hand-drawn art style, “Winnie the Pooh” hits theaters July 15, 2011.

My thoughts-Who doesn't love that catchy tune and that loveable bear, Winnie the Pooh? We have been fans for a lifetime. It was great to share this experience with my nephew who just loved the movie, as well as I did. As I have read the story, and have read it to my son, the movie was so cute to watch. The animations are great. My favorite part was when Pooh's tummy was growling for honey....reminds me of myself when I'm hungry. So grab your honeys, and head on over to check this honey of a movie out! Sit and enjoy the animations as the credits roll because...shhh...there is more at the end. wink...wink...



Disclosure-My family was invited to an advance screening of this movie to review. No compensation was received. These are our honest opinions.

Seventh Generation and Stonyfield Farm products - Mom Party

Moms Meet Mommy Party hosted by Seventh Generation and Stonyfield Farm products

All the mommies enjoyed receiving sample products and learning more about how these products really work. With babies in tow, the babies were able to sample Stonyfield Farm products. The new mommies who are expecting learned how Seventh Generation can help them. And for all our savvy coupon mommy savers, coupons were passed out as well.

Olay - Body Collections Product Review

Luscious Embrace™ Cleansing Body Wash

Discover the lush, flourishing beauty of the Amazon when you plunge into this rich lather with jojoba butter and crushed orchid extract. Feel it envelop your body like a botanical-infused steam treatment.

My thoughts-This body wash smells divine. I have a sensitive nose at times, and cannot handle too scented product line out there. I, especially, cannot handle some of the expensive Bath and Body shop collections. It has a rich lather, and leaves your skin feeling moisturized after use.

Silk Whimsy™ Massaging Bar Soap

Discover a world of romance when you smooth on this whisper light lather with delicate rose extract and almond oil. Feel it hush over you like rose petals floating in a Venetian bath.

My thoughts-For those that are bar of soap kinda users, here is one for you. I loved it. The little balls on the bar are great on my achy body at the end of my day. It also smells great, and is not too scenty for those who are sensitive. And no need to hit the expensive stores again, these are found at the local stores near you.


***Disclosure-I received these product samples to review. These are my honest opinions. These products have been Independentmami tested and Independentmami approved.

Olay - Total Effects Product Review

So this month, I turn the big 33!! And I have not been feeling at my best, because of this thing called PREGNANCY. I love my baby but these symptoms are not making me feel any younger, skinnier, or better about myself. The signs of me getting older are rapidly showing everyday. So I turned to some products to help me with some of my aging, check out my thoughts...

So I changed up my morning routine, first up Total Effects Nourishing Cream Cleanser...fights 7 signs of aging (fine lines and wrinkles, rough texture, uneven skin tone, dullness, prominent pores, age spots and dryness) by:

• Cleansing skin thoroughly
• Moisturizing to soothe and nourish dry skin
• Deep cleansing to minimize pore appearance
• Minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Fighting dullness for healthy-looking radiance
• Refining skin's surface to maintain smoothness

My thoughts-I like the cream cleanser. It is not harsh on my skin. And one big plus, is that it does not dry my skin out. I have the regular T zone, but with my pregnancy all rules are out of the book. And I like that it is helping me fight the aging thing!

Next up, Total Effects Daily Moisturizer...fights 7 signs of aging (fine lines and wrinkles, rough texture, uneven skin tone, dullness, prominent pores, age spots and dryness) by:

• Minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Moisturizing to soothe and nourish dry skin
• Balancing color and tone while reducing the appearance of age spots
• Smoothing skin’s texture with gentle exfoliation
• Refining to minimize pore appearance
• Protecting skin’s surface with antioxidants
• Firming skin’s appearance with hydration

My thoughts-I did not really understand how important this step really is to taking care of your skin but now I do. Afer you wash your face, always put moisturizer on to protect your skin. I use to run everyday after work and on the weekends, so my face would get dirty. I would wash it to cleanse it but it would be left unprotected. I was not doing anything to help my skin. Now I moisturize, after I wash my face. I like how great my skin feels when I smooth it on. It is light and not heavy.

Last but not least important step in my routine...Total Effects Line and Dark Circle Minimizing Brush...fights 7 signs of aging by:

• Reducing the appearance of dark circles
• Minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Massaging to instantly reduce the look of puffiness
• Hydrating to firm skin’s appearance
• Renewing skin’s texture
• Evening skin tone
• Moisturizing to counteract dryness

Light and Non-Greasy. Fragrance-Free.

My thoughts-I like this easy to use brush. I have been having a horrible time getting to sleep. I am so tired but the baby won't let me sleep. So I stay up late, and in the morning my eyes look horrible. But now most mornings, I simply pull out this little brush, and instantly make my dark circles start fading away. Like I said it is simple to just sweep on under your eye, and then dab with my pinky finger to smooth it out. It is a must in my morning routine!

All products are not going to work the same all your life. It is good to evaluate them every now and again. Our body changes, and so do our routines. I am only 32, going on 33 but I was really feeling 40. I am so glad I have changed up my routine and have started using the Oil of Olay - Total Effects line to help me fight my aging body!

***Disclosure-I received sample products to review. All opinions are my honest opinions. These products have been Independentmami tested and Independentmami approved. You may not have the same results as I have received, it is always good to test out a product on your own.

WINNIE THE POOH / Soundtrack & Book Giveaway

The charming new Winnie the Pooh soundtrack includes music from the all new Disney movie, featuring an original song by Zooey Deschanel plus her special rendition of the beloved “Winnie the Pooh” theme song. Available today, July 12. Winnie the Pooh Soundtrack

Get more Pooh and friends with this adorable storybook. Available wherever books are sold.

Do you want to win the WINNIE THE POOH - soundtrack cd and book? How to enter:

1) Who is your favorite character? and why? (1 entry)
2) Facebook Share. (1 entry/per share)
3) Linky Share. (1 entry/per linky)
4) Tweet. (1 entry/per tweet, unlimited)

Enter to #win Winnie The Pooh soundtrack cd & book @independentmami ends 7/17 http://tinyurl.com/6dwa86u


This giveaway ends 7/17 @ 8 a.m. 1 winner will be randomly selected. The winner will have 24 hours to claim their prize. Please leave your email in the comment, or you will be disqualified. Good Luck!

Build Nutrition Prenatal Multivitamins Review and Giveaway

Immune Support For Two
Lower dose of Vitamin A, enough to support mom’s immune health without endangering your baby

Neural Tube Health
800mcg of Folic Acid to support healthy neural tube development

Heart & Blood Health
Formulated with a higher dose of Iron to meet the increased demands during pregnancy

Mental & Physical Energy
Full complex of B vitamins to help you with stress and nausea and to support your baby’s nervous system and brain development

Convenient
Easy-to-swallow and easy-to-digest capsules

Bottle for Bottle-I like when companies help out in their communties or the needy. The bottle to bottle program donates one bottle of vitamins to a pregnant woman in need for every bottle sold.

Did you know?

Children who are born malnourished each year
30,000,000

Pregnant women who suffer from iron deficiency anemia worldwide
56,000,000

Newborns born with neural tube defects each year
300,000

Lives impaired annually due to iodine deficiency
18,000,000

The Build Nutrition Promise-Build Nutrition Prenatal Multivitamins don’t live up to your standards in any, way, shape, or form, simply return your bottle within 60 days and not only will they refund your money, they’ll pay for another prenatal vitamin brand of your choice!

My thoughts-

For someone who hates taking pills, prenatal(HORSEPILLS) are killing me, at least until I found these. They are smaller than the normal prenatals you may find. I like that they are easy to swallow capsules. The capsules can be opened for those like me who have trouble swallowing pills. You can pop them open and add to a shake, or water. I checked the label and it was equivalent if not better at giving me my daily intake of all the vitamins my baby and I need. There are no preservatives, no artificial colors or flavors, no harmful chemicals and no gluten. They are 100% vegetarian and kosher. And I really love their bottle to bottle program.

Thanks to Build Nutrition, I have 2 bottles to give to 2 lucky readers.

How to enter:

1. Go to Build Nutrition, and tell me why you want to try their vitamins. (1 entry)
2. Facebook Share. (1 entry/per link/per day)
3. Linky. (1 entry/per linky)
4. Tweet. (1 entry/per tweet/unlimited)

#Win 1 bottle of #Prenatal Multivitamins 7/28 http://tinyurl.com/6cfzsqw
(2 winners) @independentmami

This giveaway ends on 07/28/2011 @ 8 a.m. 2 winners will be randomly selected to each win 1 bottle. Please leave your email in the comment. The winners will have 24 hours to claim their prize. US only. Good Luck.

And the winner is ...Pregnancy Salve

Congratulations...Winner of the Pregnancy Salve


The Knapps said...
15

I follow via GFC

danielleaknapp at gmail dot com

You have 24 hours to claim your prize. Thank you everyone for entering. Be on the lookout for great giveaways going up really soon!!!

Wnnie the Pooh - A Honey of a Hat

You won’t mind having this bee in your bonnet.

Here’s a bee your kids needn’t flee: she happily hovers over a delightfully springy straw hat.

To make the bee’s body: Cut 2 cups from a cardboard egg carton. Trim them and glue them together as shown, then coat them with yellow acrylic paint.

To make the bee’s wings: Cut a 4-inch heart shape from a piece of bubble packaging. Use a craft knife to make a slit in the top of the bee’s body, as shown, then tuck the tip of the heart into it, adding a dab of glue to help keep it in place. To give the bee her stripes, poke one end of a black pipe cleaner into the back of the egg cup. Wrap the pipe cleaner around the body, gluing it in place, then push the free end into the cup as well.

To make the bee’s face: Glue on a 1-inch yellow pom-pom head. For antennae, glue 3/8-inch black pom-poms to the ends of half a black pipe cleaner, then wrap the pipe cleaner around the head, twisting the ends together. Glue on googly eyes and a mini black pom-pom nose, then add a black fabric paint smile.

To attach to hat: Stick one end of a 12-inch piece of 18-gauge wire into a straw hat. Twist the wire into a spiral and flatten it against the insde of the hat, securing it with duct tape, as shown. Poke the free end of the wire into the bee and secure it with a dot of glue, then glue some silk flowers onto the hat to keep the honeybee happy.



Courtesy: Disney FamilyFun magazine.
Go to familyfun.com for more great ideas.


ABOUT THE MOVIE
Walt Disney Animation Studios returns to the Hundred Acre Wood with “Winnie the Pooh,” the first big-screen Pooh adventure from Disney animation in more than 35 years. With the charm, wit and whimsy of the original featurettes, this all-new movie reunites audiences with the philosophical “bear of very little brain” and friends Tigger, Rabbit, Piglet, Kanga, Roo—and last, but certainly not least, Eeyore, who has lost his tail. “Ever have one of those days where you just can’t win, Eeyore?” asks Pooh. Owl sends the whole gang on a wild quest to save Christopher Robin from an imaginary culprit. It turns out to be a very busy day for a bear who simply set out to find some honey. Inspired by three stories from A.A. Milne’s books in Disney’s classic, hand-drawn art style, “Winnie the Pooh” hits theaters in Europe and Latin America in Spring 2011; the U.S. release date is July 15, 2011.


***Disclosure-No compensation was receive. This is a fun post only.

Winnie The Pooh - Mask

No one says a Halloween costume has to be scary. Here's a cute disguise inspired by a honey of a bear who makes it his bees-ness to eat as much of the golden syrup as he can get his paws on. The sweetest part is how quick and easy this mask is to assemble.

Materials:
- Winnie the Pooh Mask template
- Scissors
- Thin cardboard
- Cardstock or scrapbook paper (two shades of golden yellow, black, and red)
- Glue stick
- Pencil
- Paper hole punch
- Craft knife
- Thin black sewing elastic
- Stapler

Instructions:

1. Print out the template and cut out the pieces to use as patterns. First, cut out a head from the thin cardboard and set it aside (you'll use this to back the mask later). From the lighter shade of golden yellow paper, cut a second head and a muzzle. Cut the face shadow and the inner ears pieces out of the second shade of golden yellow. Then cut out eyes, eyebrows, a nose, and a mouth from black paper and a tongue from red paper.

2. To create the mask, start by gluing the inner ears in place on the paper head. Next, glue on the face shadow, positioning the top of it about 1 1/2 inches from the top of the head. Attach the eyebrows right above the face shadow.

3. Next, glue the nose onto the muzzle. Then glue the muzzle in place so that the lower edges match up with the bottom of the head and the top overlaps the face shadow. Glue on the mouth, positioning it about 1 3/4 inches up from the chin, and then stick on the tongue.

4. Place (but do not glue) the eyes on the mask and lightly trace around them. Remove the eyes and use the craft knife to cut a hole through the head within the lines of each tracing. Don't make the holes as big as the eyes -- instead, leave a 1/8-inch border between the hole and the pencil line.

1. Now punch a hole in the center of each of the black paper eyes to create a pair of black rings, and glue them in place around the eyeholes in the mask. At this point, have your child hold the mask up to his face to make sure he can see well. If not, use the craft knife to make the eyeholes larger.

2. Place the mask atop the cardboard backing to mark where the eyeholes are. Then cut matching holes in the cardboard.

3. Cut a piece of black sewing elastic to a length that's just a bit longer than needed to fit around the back of your child's head. Knot the elastic ends and staple them to the sides of the mask backing.

4. Finally, glue the mask onto the backing, matching up all the edges, and it's ready to wear.

For more Disney crafts, recipes, and printables, visit family.com/Disney.



ABOUT THE MOVIE
Walt Disney Animation Studios returns to the Hundred Acre Wood with “Winnie the Pooh,” the first big-screen Pooh adventure from Disney animation in more than 35 years. With the charm, wit and whimsy of the original featurettes, this all-new movie reunites audiences with the philosophical “bear of very little brain” and friends Tigger, Rabbit, Piglet, Kanga, Roo—and last, but certainly not least, Eeyore, who has lost his tail. “Ever have one of those days where you just can’t win, Eeyore?” asks Pooh. Owl sends the whole gang on a wild quest to save Christopher Robin from an imaginary culprit. It turns out to be a very busy day for a bear who simply set out to find some honey. Inspired by three stories from A.A. Milne’s books in Disney’s classic, hand-drawn art style, “Winnie the Pooh” hits theaters in Europe and Latin America in Spring 2011; the U.S. release date is July 15, 2011.

Disclosure-No compensation was received. This is a fun post only.

Winnie the Pooh - Candy Box

Instructions:
1. Use scissors or a craft knife to cut out Pooh's body and each of his arms.
2. Take Pooh's body and fold along each dashed line. Make each fold away from you except for Pooh's legs. For Pooh's legs, fold the top dashed line towards you and the bottom line away from you. This will help Pooh sit on the edge of a table or shelf.
3. Glue the tabs to the inside of Pooh's body. The glued tabs will create an open box on Pooh's back.
4. Fold each of Pooh's arms in half along the dashed line and glue the two sides together. Glue each arm to Pooh's sides.
5. Drop a few pieces of candy into Pooh and make a special Easter delivery!

For more Disney crafts, recipes, and printables, visit family.com/Disney.

ABOUT THE MOVIE

Walt Disney Animation Studios returns to the Hundred Acre Wood with “Winnie the Pooh,” the first big-screen Pooh adventure from Disney animation in more than 35 years. With the charm, wit and whimsy of the original featurettes, this all-new movie reunites audiences with the philosophical “bear of very little brain” and friends Tigger, Rabbit, Piglet, Kanga, Roo—and last, but certainly not least, Eeyore, who has lost his tail. “Ever have one of those days where you just can’t win, Eeyore?” asks Pooh. Owl sends the whole gang on a wild quest to save Christopher Robin from an imaginary culprit. It turns out to be a very busy day for a bear who simply set out to find some honey. Inspired by three stories from A.A. Milne’s books in Disney’s classic, hand-drawn art style, “Winnie the Pooh” hits theaters in Europe and Latin America in Spring 2011; the U.S. release date is July 15, 2011.

ZOOKEEPER movie review

This movie hit the movies today, July 08, 2011. It has been rated PG by the MPAA for SOME RUDE AND SUGGESTIVE HUMOR, AND LANGUAGE.

SYNOPSIS

In Zookeeper, the animals at the Franklin Park Zoo love their kindhearted caretaker, Griffin Keyes (Kevin James). Finding himself more comfortable with a lion than a lady, Griffin decides the only way to get a girl in his life is to leave the zoo and find a more glamorous job. The animals, in a panic, decide to break their time-honored code of silence and reveal their biggest secret: they can talk! To keep Griffin from leaving, they decide to teach him the rules of courtship – animal style. The film also stars Rosario Dawson and Leslie Bibb and features the voices of Cher, Nick Nolte, Adam Sandler, and Sylvester Stallone.


Our thoughts-

This was such a hilarious movie. We all enjoyed it. We were on the floor rolling laughing from how funny the scenes were. I have to tell you the characters really made this movie. After you are done trying to guess who is who, sit back, relax, and enjoy a good laugh. This movie is great for ages starting at the tweens all the way to adults. I have so many favorite scenes, because they were all too funny. I won't spoil the movie, as I am not one of those people. My family recommends it, and gives up 2 thumbs up!!!

If you are looking for something fun to do this weekend, and want to stay away from the outdoors, grab the family and go catch this movie.


***Disclosure-My family was invited to an advance movie screening of this movie to review. All opinions are our own and are our honest opinions. Zookeeper has been Independentmami viewed and is Independentmami recommended.

Winnie the Pooh - Cake Pops

Cake Pops Recipe (Bakerella)

With this recipe, everyone's favorite tubby little cubby is no longer stuffed with fluff: He's a tasty cake pop. And since Winnie the Pooh can't go long without his "hunny," you can use extra cake to make delectable Hunny Pot Cake Pops, too.

Materials:

- 1 box cake mix (bake as directed on box for 13 X 9 cake)
- 1 16 oz can of ready-made frosting
- Wax paper
- Baking sheets
- Yellow candy coating
- Red candy coating (optional for shirt collar)
- Chocolate coated sunflower seeds in yellow,
white or another light color (nose)
- Black non-pareils (eyes)
- Brown rainbow chip sprinkles
- Pink confetti sprinkles (tongue)
- Black edible ink pen (eyebrows, mouth)
- Red edible ink pen (mouth)
- Toothpicks
- Paper lollipop sticks
- Styrofoam block

Instructions:

1. After cake is cooked and cooled completely, crumble into a large bowl.

2. With a large spoon, mix thoroughly with about 3/4 of the can of frosting. You won't need the rest.

3. Roll mixture into quarter size cake balls and place on a wax paper covered baking sheet.

4. Place cake balls in the freezer for about 15 minutes to firm up. You can transfer them to the refrigerator to keep chilled and avoid freezing.

5. When they are firm, shape half of the cake balls to resemble Winnie's head. The top of the ball should be smaller than the bottom. Try to shape them so the nose protrudes in the front.

6. To practice getting the shape right, place candies in position for ears and nose and use a lollipop stick to mark the eyes to see if the shape is looking right.

7. You can use a picture of Winnie as a guide to shape the cake ball. You can also use a lollipop stick to help shape the nose.

8. Return the cake pops to the refrigerator to maintain firmness.

9. Melt yellow candy coating in a heat-proof plastic bowl so that the coating is at three to four inches deep for easier dipping. Melt in the microwave in 30 second intervals on low, stirring in between. Repeat until melted and smooth.

10. Remove a couple of cake balls from the refrigerator at a time to work with.

11. Dip the tip of a lollipop stick into the melted coating and insert into the bottom of Winnie's head. Then, grab two sunflower seed ears and dip the pointed side into the melted candy coating. Attach the ears to the top/back of the cake pop and the coating will set like glue.

12. Place in a styrofoam block to dry.

13. After a few minutes you can carefully dip the entire cake pop with ears attached into the bowl of melted candy coating. Dip and remove in one motion without stirring. Make sure the entire cake ball is covered. Using a deep bowl is helpful here. If your coating is too thick, you can add a few drops of vegetable oil or shortening to help thin it and make it easier to work with.

14. Remove and allow any excess coating to fall off the pop and back into the bowl.

15. Before the coating sets, attach one brown rainbow chip sprinkle in position for the nose. Repeat with the remaining Winnie the Pooh Pops.

16. Place in a styrofoam block to dry.

17. When dry, use a toothpick to dot a tiny amount of coating in position for the eyes and attach one black non-pareil sprinkle for each eye. It's best to attach one eye at a time so the coating doesn't dry before you can attach the sprinkle.

18. Use a black edible ink pen to draw eyebrows and a cute smile. Then finish the bottom of the mouth using a red edible ink pen.

19. For the tongues, cut a pink confetti sprinkle in half and use a toothpick to dot a small amount of coating in position and attach the tongue.

20. You can stop here or you can give Winnie a hint of his red shirt.

21. To do so, melt red candy coating and let sit for a few minutes to thicken a bit. If it is too hot it can be runny. Then carefully, twist and remove the lollipop stick. Once removed, you can hold Winnie's head and dip the bottom in two diagonal directions to form the collar of his red shirt. Immediately reinsert the lollipop stick and place back in the styrofoam block to dry.

22. You can wrap them in treat bags tied with a ribbon and/or store them on the counter or in an airtight container.

For more Disney crafts, recipes, and printables, visit family.com/Disney.

ABOUT THE MOVIE
Walt Disney Animation Studios returns to the Hundred Acre Wood with “Winnie the Pooh,” the first big-screen Pooh adventure from Disney animation in more than 35 years. With the charm, wit and whimsy of the original featurettes, this all-new movie reunites audiences with the philosophical “bear of very little brain” and friends Tigger, Rabbit, Piglet, Kanga, Roo—and last, but certainly not least, Eeyore, who has lost his tail. “Ever have one of those days where you just can’t win, Eeyore?” asks Pooh. Owl sends the whole gang on a wild quest to save Christopher Robin from an imaginary culprit. It turns out to be a very busy day for a bear who simply set out to find some honey. Inspired by three stories from A.A. Milne’s books in Disney’s classic, hand-drawn art style, “Winnie the Pooh” hits theaters in Europe and Latin America in Spring 2011; the U.S. release date is July 15, 2011.

***Disclosure-No compensation was received. This is a fun post only.

Winne the Pooh - Hoot Owl Cupcake Recipe

As a good friend to Winnie the Pooh, Christopher Robin, and all the other residents of the Hundred Acre Wood, for that matter, Owl is ever willing to offer his opinions and advice. Solicited or not! He's a pretty good storyteller, too, particularly when the tales are about family members -- such as Uncle Robert, who survived a very blusterous day.

Materials:
- Batch of chocolate cupcakes
- Buttercream frosting
- Caramel Bullseye candies
- Waxed paper
- Rolling pin
- White candy melts
- Chocolate chips
- Kitchen scissors
- Black licorice sticks
- Cashews

Instructions:

1. Generously frost one third of the top of each cupcake.

2. Next, create owl eyes. For each pair, slice a caramel Bullseye candy in half to create 2 thinner circles. Place the halves between two sheets of waxed paper and use the rolling pin to flatten them slightly (they should be about 1 1/2-inch-wide).

3. Top the caramels with white candy melts, and then set a chocolate chip on top of each candy melt, using dabs of frosting to hold the pieces in place. Place a pair of eyes on each cupcake, pressing them down onto the frosted portion.

4. Create facial feathers for each owl by snipping two 1 1/2-inch lengths from a piece of black licorice. Cut fringe in one end of each length. Then stick the fringed licorice pieces in place right above the eyes.

5. For the finishing touch, add cashews for the owls' beaks.

For more Disney crafts, recipes, and printables, visit family.com/Disney.


ABOUT THE MOVIE
Walt Disney Animation Studios returns to the Hundred Acre Wood with “Winnie the Pooh,” the first big-screen Pooh adventure from Disney animation in more than 35 years. With the charm, wit and whimsy of the original featurettes, this all-new movie reunites audiences with the philosophical “bear of very little brain” and friends Tigger, Rabbit, Piglet, Kanga, Roo—and last, but certainly not least, Eeyore, who has lost his tail. “Ever have one of those days where you just can’t win, Eeyore?” asks Pooh. Owl sends the whole gang on a wild quest to save Christopher Robin from an imaginary culprit. It turns out to be a very busy day for a bear who simply set out to find some honey. Inspired by three stories from A.A. Milne’s books in Disney’s classic, hand-drawn art style, “Winnie the Pooh” hits theaters in Europe and Latin America in Spring 2011; the U.S. release date is July 15, 2011.

Disclosure-No compensation was received. This is a fun post only.

Winnie the Pooh Activity Sheets

Winnie the Pooh is coming out on July 15, here are some activity sheets to keep the kiddos busy this summer...

***Disclosure-No compensation was received. This is a fun post only.

And the winners are.. Cars and kikifashions.com

Winner of a Cars Prize Pack-Congratulations goes to...

Lauren said...
1

My favorite car would have to be Lighting McQueen! The reason is because he is like me, with the can do attitude, friendly, and not giving up on anything he puts his mind too, and very happy. My days can not go so well, but I always have that can do attitude and just put my mind to it and not give up with a smile on my face. Friendly thats me for sure I am a kind, friendly person that offer a lot of love and is surround by lots of best friends just like him and Mater!

If I would win this prize pack I would have to give it to my little cousin who is in love with cars...his favorite is Mater. I remember when he first saw the preview to cars 2, the excitement was and still is seen in his face. From this prize pack and him seeing this movie will bring him even more excitement!

laurencoto2008@gmail.com

June 14, 2011 10:07 PM

Winner of a $25 gift certificate to kikisfahions.com-Congratulations goes to...

Lady Emma said...
54

tweet

https://twitter.com/#!/JoAnnaEmma/status/85522619075534848

June 27, 2011 8:39 PM


Congratulations to both winners. You have 24 hours to claim your prize. Thank you all for entering. And stay tuned for some awesome giveaways to come!!!

Star Fleet Romantic Dinner Cruise

Are you looking for something different to do for date nite? Have you ever been on a boat? How about a Romantic Dinner Cruise?

A romantic Dinner Cruise on Clear Lake and Galveston Bay. Let me take you on a voyage on the 2nd Deck of the Star Gazer dining yacht in Kemah! It is a unique dining experience surrounded by spectacular views and live soft music. It is a relaxing, two-hour dinner cruise. It has a gourmet dinner buffet. You can watch the sun set on the water as you enjoy your evening on the water. You can also bring Mardi Gras beads to toss at the Kemah Boardwalk as we cruise by!

*Note: On the Star Gazer this is an outdoor patio dining experience that is restricted to the 2nd deck. During the colder months the 2nd deck is climate controlled. The main salon is reserved for the Murder Mystery. Most tables on the 2nd deck are private tables although this cannot be guaranteed and you may be seated with other guests. The time of sunset varies throughout the year and may not occur during your cruise.

Purchase your tickets online now.

$69 Adult, $39 Child (3-12 years)
(Sales tax of 8.25%not included)

Price Includes
• Two Hour Cruise on Clear Lake and Galveston Bay
• Gourmet Dinner Buffet
• Soft Drinks, Coffee, Tea and Juices – Cash bar for Beer, Wine & Cocktails
• Live music

CANCELLATION POLICY
IF YOU MISS THE BOAT OR CANCEL WITHIN 24 HOURS OF YOUR CRUISE, THERE ARE NO REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES. If you give at least 24 hours notice of cancellation, you may request a 50% refund or apply 75% of your ticket price towards an upcoming cruise.


My thoughts and our experience:

We arrived at our destination, Star Fleet Marina in Kemah. This was just short drive from Houston to Kemah.

As we boarded the boat, we found our table was waiting for us. We were greeted by the wonderful crew, and our entertainer for the evening.

Once the boat took off, we were told the dinner buffet was open. Check this out. Fish, Chicken, Salad, veggies, fruit, mash potatoes, and a roll. The food was delicious!!! And after dinner, dessert was served. Not pictured here but it was a chocolate cake.

Our evening was amazing. We have never been on such a Romantic evening like this one. The entertainer even played some of our favorites which my husband and I sang along to. For our honeymoon we went on a cruise and I was seasick the entire time and was unable to enjoy myself, but no worries on this cruise. No seasickness and no pregnancy sickness either. The evening was just perfect. It was so perfect that someone even got proposed to...

Congratulations to Mark and Melony...And they were not the only ones celebrating on the boat. We had alot of couples celebrating their anniversaries, and some celebrating birthdays.

My husband and I really enjoyed ourselves. And this will not be our last cruise.

***Disclosure-No compensation was received. We were invited to take the adventure of a cruise for this review. These are our honest opinions.

Happy Independence Day from Winnie the Pooh!

WINNIE THE POOH opens in theatres everywhere on July 15th.

ABOUT THE MOVIE
Walt Disney Animation Studios returns to the Hundred Acre Wood with “Winnie the Pooh.” Featuring the timeless charm, wit and whimsy of the original featurettes, this all-new movie reunites audiences with the philosophical “bear of very little brain” and friends Tigger, Rabbit, Piglet, Owl, Kanga, Roo—and last, but certainly not least, Eeyore, who has lost his tail. “Ever have one of those days where you just can’t win, Eeyore?” asks Pooh. Owl sends the whole gang on a wild quest to save Christopher Robin from an imaginary culprit. It turns out to be a very busy day for a bear who simply set out to find some honey. Inspired by three stories from A.A. Milne’s books in Disney’s classic, hand-drawn art style, “Winnie the Pooh” hits theatres on July 15th!

Like WINNIE THE POOH on Facebook.

***Disclosure-No compensation was received. Informational post only!

THE HELP opens Aug 10

DreamWorks’ THE HELP opens in theaters everywhere on August 10th.

AND guess what if you live in one of 10 lucky cities (Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Detroit, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Baltimore, Houston and Dallas-Ft. Worth), grab your girlfriends, mothers, sisters, etc. and groups of 5 or more can purchase tickets to a special Tuesday night, August 9th, 7:00 pm showing of THE HELP so you can see it first! Call 1-800-347-6396 for more information.

DreamWorks Pictures has created an awesome “Helpful Book Club Kit” which contains everything you need to create a perfect THE HELP themed meeting for your club! The Book Club Kit includes southern style recipes, and drinks inspired by the characters.

“Like” THE HELP on Facebook.