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Ramona and Beezus – The Movie!

Posted on July 23, 2010 10:05 am by TheAngelForever

As much as I love to read now, I was a reluctant reader as a child. I did not like teachers telling me that I had to read so many books each month, or a specific title. Thankfully, there were books out there that made me want to read and keep at it. Beverly Cleary is an author that saved me for years. Thanks to her books, I was able to find characters that would keep me engaged in reading and laughing while I went. If you are not familiar with the name Beverly Cleary, you may remember her infamous Ramona Quimby. Ramona was the Junie B. Jones of my generation – only she keeps on giving. Ramona and her family and friends continue to keep generations of kids reading to see what quirky adventure she will go on. I have secretly been wishing and waiting for NHL (almost 7) to be ready to read the Ramona books to share the experience with him.

Several months ago, I heard that they were finishing up a movie called Ramona and Beezus. I had mixed emotions. Movies that are based on books often do not live up to my expectations (see Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs – my favorite picture book). Of course, the Harry Potter movies have created a new level of book to movie phenomena. While teaching, I also did comparisons of books and Hollywood versions with my students (perfect Vehn Diagram opportunity for pre-writing). I knew that I had to see this movie.

Time went by and I heard bits and pieces about the movie. Then out of the blue, we were invited to a pre-screening of Ramona and Beezus (rated G) last week (it opens TODAY). The boys and I went, along with my Aunt S and grandmother to see Ramona and Beezus on the big screen. Thanks to the quick nature of this, I did not have time to reread the books, so my memories of Ramona are sketchy at best. When the movie began, I was instantly brought back to my childhood. Here was Ramona, Beezus, Picky Picky, Henry Higgins and the rest of the gang in front of my eyes. Thanks to Selena Gomez (Beezus in the movie), I have the official Ramona and Beezus Trailer to show you. Sit back, relax and enjoy!

What we thought:

Let me begin by saying that I really enjoyed the movie. Every time a new actor came onto the screen as a familiar character, I was taken a bit more into the wonderful and wacky world of Ramona Quimby. While watching the movie, I made a mental note that I had to find my old copies of the books to reread. The story of Ramona and Beezus is classic. There are two sisters realizing the important family bond as they move through some struggles in life to save their home. The movie really lives up to the tagline: "A Little Sister Goes A Long Way."

Joey King was Ramona and did a fabulous job in the role. She was cute, spunky and had the Ramona timing down. It really is hard to believe that this is her first motion picture appearance. The chemistry between Ramona and Beezus was also special in this film. Selena Gomez takes on the role of big sister Beezus and plays the perfect teenage counterpart to King’s Ramona. The two young ladies without a doubt brought the world of Ramona from the pages to the big screen.

Simply stated, director Elizabeth Allen created Ramona’s world in this film. She did a great job going from the serious scenes about the family losing their house, to Ramona’s day dreams and back to the silly water fight and lemonade scenes.

In addition to Joey King and Selena Gomez, the cast of actors in Ramona and Beezus helped this classic book come alive for fans of all ages. I am a long time fan of John Corbett and enjoyed seeing him as Robert Quimby. He showed his softer side and really had nice chemistry with Joey King, especially during the drawing scene with her. Bridget Moynahan was Dorothy Quimby. She played a serious mom, who could see the humor in a the antics of her quirky little girl. One of the best surprises in the movie was Ginnifer Goodwin in the role of Ramona’s beloved Aunt Bea. As a big fan of Big Love, it was nice seeing her spread her wings and show more of the comedic timing that is sometimes hinted at when playing Margene. Josh Duhamel as Hobart is a great counterpart to Goodwin and works well with the kids in the film. One other big surprise to me was Sandra Oh (Dr. Cristina Yang on Grey’s Anatomy) as Mrs. Meacham. As a teacher, I loved her portrayal of the straight-laced and slightly sarcastic Mrs. Meacham. Of course, I have to admit, I did see hints of Dr. Yang coming into the role – especially when she rolled her eyes a certain way.

Overall, I really enjoyed the movie. I do believe that Ramona fans of all ages will appreciate the book coming alive in front of their eyes. On the flip side, my almost seven year old son now wants to read the Ramona books. He had never heard of Ramona before the movie and is now excited to read more about this quirky little girl. Today, I will be heading out to get a copy of the book to use as the perfect summer read aloud now that we have seen the movie. Oh, I am purposely not telling you my favorite scenes from the movie since I do not want to spoil anything for you when you go and see it.

I highly recommend the movie Ramona and Beezus to people that grew up with Ramona and new fans alike (also a great summer family movie). The storyline and acting will help keep you in the land of Ramona Quimby and begging Beverly Cleary for more wonderful literary creations.

Disclosure: I received complementary passes for my family to see the pre-screening of Ramona and Beezus from the PR agency releasing the movie. No other compensation was given. All opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine. All pictures used with permission. Photos by Alan Markfield.
2010 Twentieth Century Fox and Walden Media, LLC. Was given special permission to use these photos after viewing the pre-screening of the movie as a member of the media.

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books fun looking back me moments Movies Product review

Breakfast fun with Eggo Real Fruit Pizzas

Posted on July 22, 2010 12:00 am by TheAngelForever

I will admit it, breakfast in our house can be a bit crazy, especially when my oldest is at school. TechyDad is busy getting ready for work, NHL is eating breakfast before school and JSL is usually refusing to anything/everything we ask him to eat. Some mornings, it is cereal, breakfast bars, waffles or even yogurt. It really depends on what we have and how much time is left before running out the door.

When I was asked by Mom Central to try the new Eggo Real Fruit Pizzas, I jumped at the opportunity. Both of my kids love pizza, they like Eggo products and it was a chance to get them to eat a little fruit.

More about Eggo Real Fruit Pizzas:

A new morning delivery from Kellogg is warming up the frozen food aisle. As breakfast products such as cereal, snack and energy cars, fruit and yogurt are gaining popularity, this unique and flavorful introduction is giving breakfast enthusiasts a tasty breakfast option. New Eggo Real Fruit Pizzas combine all your great-tasting favorite breakfast items into one delicious offering

Eggo Real Fruit Pizzas are an all-in-one combination of fruit and warm toasted granola on an oven-baked cinnamon and maple-flavored crust. Available in Strawberry Granola and Mixed Berry Granola varieties, Eggo Real Fruit Pizzas join other Eggo favorites like Homestyle, Buttermilk and Blueberry Eggo waffles – all part of a great-tasting family of products that consumers have loved for years

Eggo Real Fruit Pizzas after just one minute in the microwave. The Strawberry Granola has 400 calories and the Mixed Berry Granola 390 – both made with real fruit. They are now available in the freezer section of the grocery stores. One item I noted in particular, they also contain 4 grams of fiber in each pizza.

What we thought:

Both of the boys were very excited about having Eggo Pizza for dinner one night. We often do breakfast for dinner, so why not let them try this one night?! NHL kept watching us as we prepared the pizza. He wanted to see them before and after they went into the microwave. This is what he saw:

When we put them onto the table to split for the boys, NHL ran over and took his place. Then it was time to get the three year old who often refuses to each anything/everything we make. He looked at the table and saw this:

The large amounts of fruit that NHL, TechyDad and I saw as a fabulous perk sent him screaming from the table. He chanted "Me no eat pizza!" *sigh* That left us with NHL having it for dinner and the two adults snacking on some with him. Here are some photos of NHL as he was devouring the fruit pizzas. Please excuse the goofy shots, he was trying to make me laugh as I was taking the photos and it worked nicely.

NHL thoroughly enjoyed his Eggo Real Fruit Pizza halves. I was lucky I snapped pictures quickly because they disappeared before I blinked. When asked which was his favorite, he said strawberry since they are his favorite fruit. I asked if he would like them again and he immediately wanted to know if we had more in the freezer.

Since JSL was not eating his, TechyDad and I both were able to sample his part of the Eggo Real Fruit Pizzas. I really liked the taste of the fruit, granola and "sauce" (not sure if it was yogurt or a strawberry cream cheese). With the strawberry variety you really could taste all of the different flavors coming together to make this unique breakfast option. Although I liked the Mixed Berry Pizza, I thought that the tart raspberry presence was a bit overwhelming.

Verdict: We would definitely buy these again. I like that they are easy to make and have real fruit and four grams of fiber in them. Next time I am at the store and see them, I will grab a few for NHL with the hopes that JSL actually tries them next time.

Disclosure: I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Eggo Real Fruit Pizza and received samples to facilitate my candid review. Mom Central will also be sending me a $20 Amazon gift certificate to thank me for taking the time to participate.

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Blog Tour food glorious food nhl photos Product review yummy

Tuesday Tales – The All-American Jump and Jive Jig

Posted on July 20, 2010 12:00 am by TheAngelForever

Summer time reading is crucial in our house. NHL is about to enter second grade and adores to read books. I have to admit that I am quite lucky not to have a reluctant reader. If he sees a book that does not have chapters in it and has pictures, he immediately picks it up to read.

Recently, we received some books from Sterling Children’s Books. One of the books included was The All-American Jump and Jive Jig by M.P. Hueston.

The book immediately intrigued NHL and myself. The two of us decided to pick it up and plunk down on the couch to read it. We were transported to places across the United States where we learned things about the states via fun dances. As we read along with the easy flowing rhyming lines, NHL started to ask questions. He wanted to know where all of the places were located in relation to us in New York. This is where my teacher brain started to kick into high gear. This book would be fun to use in a read aloud with a map of the USA. Student volunteers could help to map all of the locations in the book to make sure that we had indeed gone from state to state. Another interesting option would be to map out the route traveled and see how many miles the adventure takes you on. When NHL heard me mention this, he was curious and we may try this on a rainy day once I dig out a better map of the United States to use.

We both enjoyed the book, especially with our timing. NHL and I read it on July 3 and I have to say it really made us think about the country that we live in. NHL adored the fun illustrations by Amanda Haley. He was fascinated with the page about the hula in Hawaii. I think this is thanks to It’s a Small World at Disney World. He kept asking me questions about the different states and facts mentioned within the book. It lead to a good discussion and some fun after reading. On another day, the book caught the eye of JSL. Here he is enjoying it:

More about the book:

Come along on a joyful journey across America, where children from east, west, north and south show off their coolest moves in The All-American Jump and Jive Jig (Sterling Children’s Books; On Sale June 2010; $14.95; Ages 4-7; ISBN: 978-1-4027-5143-1).

From the Juneau Jitterbug to the Hawaiian Hula, the Brooklyn Boogie to the Miami Mambo, these jubilant, creative and boisterous dances will entice children to gather their friends, get up, and groove. Which will be their favorite – Maine’s Rockland Sock Hop or Michigan’s Mackinac Milkshake? The Lubbock Line Dance or the Rockies’ Elevation Celebration? Every dance is irresistible fun, and will set happy feet in action!

A perfect way to celebrate the U.S.A. and the 4th of July holiday, M.P. Hueston’s witty, rhythmic verse and Amanda Haley’s colorful, vibrant pictures make following along easy….and encourage kids to come up with their own choreographic creations!

Here is NHL’s favorite part of the book as I read it to JSL. Sorry about the moving camera, it’s tough filming, reading and wrangling a wiggly three year old.

We truly enjoyed this book. Books that educate while putting a smile on a child’s face are crucial and this book hits that mark. We will definitely be looking for other stories by M.P. Hueston.

So what have you read recently? Please be sure to link up to your Tuesday Tales and/or leave a comment below. Include something you read on your own, with a child or someone else. Tuesday Tales are all about spreading the love for books.

Disclosure: I received this book complimentary of Sterling Publishing in order to facilitate this review. No other compensation was given. The opinions expressed in the review are my own.

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books jsl nhl photos Product review Tuesday Tales

Journey to Comfort with Dove Men + Care

Posted on July 18, 2010 12:00 am by TheAngelForever

If you had told me a few months ago that TechyDad would ask me to buy him body wash, I would have laughed in your face. Long ago, he told me that he did not like the slimy (purely technical term here) that they left on his skin. He did not think that it made him feel clean. This all changed back in March when he did a review with me for the Dove Men + Care line of products.

Just the other day, TechyDad asked me to buy more of the Dove Men + Care body wash because his current was nearly empty. It was nice to hear that he found something that he truly liked. So when I was asked by someone to receive a Dove Men + Care Father’s Day comfort pack, we said sure. Once again, it arrived with an active clean shower tool, a container of body wash and some of the bar soaps. TechyDad was thrilled to have more of the body wash and another of the scrubber since he thinks it does a great job cleaning his skin.

About Dove Men + Care:

What is Dove® MEN+CARE?

Dove introduces, MEN+CARE, the brand’s first-ever product line created specifically for men. The new products are designed for men who have a reached a point in their lives where they are comfortable with themselves, but not in their skin. Many men put up with cleansing products that are harsh and drying, without realizing these products leave their skin feeling dry, irritated and uncomfortable. Men even blame their socks for their skin irritation when it is really the drying effect of regular cleansers!

Total Skin Comfort

Dove developed MEN+CARE so men can literally be comfortable in their skin. Built on the Dove brand’s heritage in cleansing, moisturizing and care, the new MEN+CARE products offer great cleansing combined with Dove moisturizers to provide total skin comfort. Dove MEN+CARE is dermatologist recommended and clinically proven to fight skin dryness without irritation or tightness.

This summer, Dove has teamed up with well known athletes from the world of baseball including Albert Pujols, Andy Peitite and Joe Girardi to show their Journey to Comfort stories. You can also visit here to see more information about the Ultimate Baseball Experience for a chance to win their Sweepstakes, The sweepstakes ends July 18 (TODAY – sorry if you read this when it is over) will give you a chance to win an all expense paid trip to St. Louis for a once in a lifetime Baseball Experience. The winner will receive a trip for 4, airfare, 2 hotel rooms for two nights, and 4 tickets to a game along with a meet and greet with Albert Pujols.

I have to say these commercials really caught my eye. I stopped to watch and wanted to know more about the person and product. Dove really has hit a nice home run on this series! If you have a man in your life that is looking for something new to use in the shower, we definitely recommend Dove Men + Care here and will be buying more soon.

Disclosure: We received a Dove Men + Care Father’s Day Pack described above from Rocket XL to facilitate this review. No other compensation was given and all opinions expressed in this review are my families own feelings about the products.

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jl Product review

Simply Go-Gurt – Review/Giveaway.com

Posted on July 6, 2010 12:34 pm by TheAngelForever

My boys love yogurt. Last summer, my little guy really liked Go-Gurt, even for a frozen treat. When I mentioned this to our doctor, she was not thrilled. She said that although it was fabulous that he was eating yogurt., she did not think the sugar content was a good choice. I went home I looked and sure enough, it was pretty high for a regular purchase item. We stopped buying Go-Gurt and the kids were not happy.

Earlier this spring, I was contacted by MyBlogSpark to participate in a Simply Go-Gurt review and giveaway. I was intrigued because the new Simply Go-Gurts were in the same fun form as the ones we had tried, but they contained less sugar.

More information about Simply Go-Gurt:

New Simply… Go-Gurt is made from simple ingredients moms look for and contains no high fructose corn syrup or artificial colors or flavors. Each convenient portable yogurt tube contains a good source of calcium and vitamin D. Simply stated, Simply… Go-Gurt is a good-for-you, low fat yogurt snack that you can feel good about giving to your kids.

New Simply… Go-Gurt is available in two kid-friendly flavors, Strawberry and Mixed Berry.

Simply Go-Gurt can be found in grocery stores nation wide. I will admit that we had some difficulty trying to find them a few months ago, but now they are stocked in almost every store that we have locally. Thanks to MyBlogSpark, I have a cute little widget below. The first 30 people to click on it will receive a coupon for a free package of Simply Go-Gurt. After that, you can print off a $1.00 off coupon.

Please note that the coupon offer for the free SImply Go-Gurt is not valid in some states, including California, Idaho, Lousiana, Minnesota, New Jersey, Nevada, North Dakota and Tennessee.

What we thought:

When our package arrived, the boys loved everything inside (see giveaway photo below). When we went shopping, they helped us to look for the new Simply Go-Gurt . Once we brought it home, NHL and JSL wanted to dig right in.

NHL (6) loved the Simply Go-Gurt. He immediately said that he likes how fun they are to eat in the squeeze tube. He had no problem at all eating one and begging for a second. He also mentioned to us that it was not new. I guess that is a great endorsement. NHL clearly did not miss the high fructose corn syrup or colors and enjoyed the new Simply Go-Gurt.

The little guy, JSL (just 3), asked for a little assistance with his Simply Go-Gurt. He did not want any to get all over since he liked the taste. After he tried to do it solo, he asked for help to maximize what got into his mouth and minimize loss to a mess. It is important to note that JSL NEVER asks for help unless it is something he really likes and wants to make sure nothing is wasted. When he finished up the first and a second (like his big brother), JSL asked for another and we had to cut him off. We told them they would be there for another day.

NHL was nice enough to let me try a little of his, JSL refused to share. I liked the taste as well. It was still sweet, but not overly sweet like the original Go-Gurt had been. The biggest thing I noticed was the color was not shocking and bright like regular Go-Gurt (we can live without bright blue tongues). Kudos to Yoplait for making this option for kiids. This is definitely a step in the right direction to have options for children that do not have HFCS and added colors. I know we will definitely be buying more and likely will have some in the freezer for quick frozen snacks this summer.

Giveaway:

Thanks to MyBlogSpark and Yoplait, one lucky reader will win a Yoplait Simply Go-Gurt "Simplify Your Life" gift pack like the one I received below. This includes a coupon to try Simply Go-Gurt, a pocket Etch a Sketch, weekly planner and a seat back organizer. . . perfect for upcoming summer trips. Please note that the coupon offer for the free Simply Go-Gurt is not valid in some states, including California, Idaho, Lousiana, Minnesota, New Jersey, Nevada, North Dakota and Tennessee.

Rules for Giveaway:

MAIN RULE – Answer the following question: Share a wholesome snacking tip that makes your child(ren) smile.

The following Bonus Entries may also be done. Please be sure to leave separate comments for each that you complete below to make sure you get the right number of entries.

1 Bonus Entry – Share a simple truth about being a parent.
1 Bonus Entry – Tweet about the giveaway on Twitter. Be sure to include @TheAngelForever and Simply Go-Gurt Giveaway in the Tweet. Please leave a direct link to your Tweet in a separate comment for each daily entry. Example Tweet (feel free to use):
1 Bonus Entry – Subscribe to my RSS feed (or let me know if you already are) in a separate comment.
1 Bonus Entry – Leave a comment on any of my non-giveaway posts from the month of June/July. Be sure to leave a comment here to let me know which one. This Bonus entry may be done only twice per person.
3 Bonus Entries – Add my blog button to your website and leave a link with the location. Be sure to give yourself 3 comments for credit.
5 Bonus Entries – Write a post on your blog linking to my blog about the giveaway. Be sure to leave 5 comments about this to get credit for all of your extra entries.

To enter, please follow the rules above within the comment section. Contest starts today July 6 and ends at 10:59 EST on July 14, 2010. You do not have to be a blogger to enter, but must leave a valid e-mail address for me to contact you for mailing address once the giveaway is over. I will select the winner using random.org and contact you via e-mail. You will have 48 hours to claim the prize. If there is no response, another winner will be selected. Open to U.S. residents only.

Disclosure: This review and giveaway was made possible by My Blog Spark and Yoplait. They provided me with the gift pack and coupon to purchase a package of Simply Go-Gurt. The opinions of this review were mine and I received no other compensation.