Review and Giveaway: ImagiPLAY

Thank you to ImagiPLAY for participating in the Bloggy Birthday Blowout Event on Goodie Goodie Gumdrops!

Tonight officially marks the conclusion of the Bloggy Birthday Blowout Event. I know, so sad. But I'm ending it with a bang! After all, no birthday celebration is complete without a super fun toy or two.

If you prefer toys that will inspire and encourage healthy development for children of all ages, you'll love ImagiPLAY.

ImagiPLAY is a mom-founded business that has been creating high-quality, educational, imaginative toys for over a decade. ImagiPLAY lives by the motto" "Toys with Integrity". Their goal is to produce quality products that connect with nature, have eco-friendly sources and hold educational value. ImagiPLAY toys not only encourage an ongoing dialogue with the environment, but enrich children's ability to count, learn the alphabet, and identify different animals while gaining a sense of the world's beauty and diversity of species. ImagiPLAY products have won numerous accolades and awards from such reputable media as Parenting Magazine, Creative Child Magazine, Dr. Toy and Parents' Choice Foundation. When you purchase an ImagiPLAY toy, you can be proud of your investment.

The folks at ImagiPLAY sent us the Safari Stacking Blocks (ARV $24.99) to review. A twist on the classic unit block set, each block is designed to resemble a colorful safari animal. The 10-piece set can be used for stacking or as a playset for imaginative play and storytelling. It also comes with a wooden tray for easy storage.

I must admit when the blocks first arrived, I was a bit disappointed by how small the blocks were. I was expecting larger blocks, similar to our chunky Mega Bloks. But as I watched Nate play, I realized the size was perfect for polishing his fine motor skills. Because some of the edges are oddly shaped (U-shaped giraffe, ridges on the alligator, curved frogs), they require a bit more carefulness and attention to detail than traditional building blocks. Nate would initially get frustrated when they would fall to pieces but now he enjoys stacking them, knocking them over and trying again.

I love that they are safe and made of rubberwood so I don't have to worry about splinters. They are colorful and fun and can really serve a multitude of play purposes. I've even caught Nate putting them in the back of his dump truck for a ride and taking them for a walk in his sandbox. I really appreciate that when we are finished playing, we can organize and store them in the wooden tray. They are a little weighty so word of warning: you may want to wear a helmet if you have a minor-league pitcher on your hands!

Overall, we love our Safari Stacking Blocks and I think they would make a great toy for any toddler aged two and up.

BUY IT: Visit www.imagiplay.com to purchase the Safari Stacking Blocks or other ImagiPLAY toys and games online.

WIN IT: I have another set of Safari Stacking Blocks to give away to one lucky reader!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Look around ImagiPLAY and tell me another toy that catches your eye. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile or if you are not a blogger!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry)

2.) Follow me and ImagiPLAY on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You can do this daily! You may use the following tweet or come up with one of your own:

Win a set of @ImagiPLAY Safari Stacking Blocks from @kris10chumley! Ends 9/22 http://bit.ly/abrQnM

Just leave a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry per day max)

3.) "Like" Goodie Goodie Gumdrops on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) Become a fan of ImagiPLAY on Facebook. (1 entry)

5.) Add my button to your site and leave a comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on September 22, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winners will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: I received a set of Safari Stacking Blocks from Tammi at ImagiPLAY to facilitate my candid review. I was not compensated in any other way for this post. The opinions expressed in this review are purely my own. Your experience may differ.

Review and Giveaway: Happy Green Bee

Thank you to Happy Green Bee for participating in the Bloggy Birthday Blowout Event on Goodie Goodie Gumdrops!

I've long tried to incorporate organic products into our lifestyle. We own several organic blankets and we buy some organic foods on a regular basis. But one area where I've always fallen short is organic clothing. The cost is normally double that of regular clothing and considering how Nate grows out of things so quickly (not to mention stains them up with typical dirt and other boy muck), I couldn't really justify the investment. That is, until we discovered the bliss that is Happy Green Bee.

Happy Green Bee is a mom-owned business with a simple philosophy: create clothing that is comfortable, colorful, playful and ecologically responsible. As owner, Roxanne Quimby states:

We created Happy Green Bee so that a child can be a child, first and foremost. By using organic cotton, a comfortable and practical fabric, and simple bee-striped patterns, children feel as comfortable as they look while their parents take a small step in making a big difference in the environment their children live in.

I first came across Happy Green Bee via a fellow blog and I fell instantly in love. Their color-coordinated, mix-and-match designs are whimsical and versatile. They carry everything from cardigans, tees and tanks to skirts, dresses and leggings to create your own unique, eco-friendly look. Happy Green Bee is fun and fancy-free, the way infant and toddler clothing should be.

I don't say this about many brands but the most appealing thing for me was the price tag! At Happy Green Bee's Clearance Store, you can find organic clothing and accessories for as little as $2! I snatched up several items for Nate, including the Chocolate/Bean Kimono, Chocolate Short-Sleeved Tee and Butterscotch/Chocolate Stripy Leggings. My order came to under $20 for all three pieces! With other organic brands, I'd spend more than that on a t-shirt!

When the clothes arrived, I was really impressed by the quality. Uber soft and bold combinations that really stand out. I've had more than one person ask about his Happy Green Bee outfits when we go out. They also wash up very well and retain shape and color. Granted, I wash them in cold/warm water and let them air dry. But I know they aren't going to be falling apart anytime soon.

I bought size Larges and the pants were a little roomy on Nate, as he's just now moving into 2T. But they fit great with a bulky cloth diaper underneath. The shirts fit him perfectly and I'm hoping we'll get lots of use out of them through next spring. I love that all of the clothes are basically seasonless (i.e., use a matching cardigan or layer a long-sleeved tee under a kimono for fall/winter).

After sharing our great experience with Happy Green Bee, they kindly offered to send me another piece to review here on my blog. I chose the Radish Leggings in size Medium. I love the fit and feel of the leggings on Nate. The tapered legs don't get in the way of play. They are soft, cute and comfy. Good for your baby and good for the planet!

If you're looking for affordable, organic clothes for your wee one, you really can't beat Happy Green Bee. I can't wait to pay another visit and add to our wardrobe!

BUY IT: To make a purchase or peruse the collection, visit www.happygreenbee.com.

WIN IT: Happy Green Bee is offering one lucky reader their choice of item from the Clearance Store (in stock only)!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Take a look around the Clearance Store and tell me which article of clothing you would choose. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile or if you are not a blogger!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry)

2.) Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You can do this daily! You may use the following tweet or come up with one of your own:

Affordable organic clothes for kids! Win any item from the Happy Green Bee Clearance Store @kris10chumley Ends 9/20 http://bit.ly/9grn0u

Just leave a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry per day max)

3.) "Like" Goodie Goodie Gumdrops on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) Become a fan of Happy Green Bee on Facebook. (1 entry)

5.) Add my button to your site and leave a comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on September 20, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winners will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: I received a free pair of leggings from Happy Green Bee to facilitate my candid review. I was not compensated in any other way for this post. All other items mentioned were purchased by me. The opinions expressed in this review are purely my own. Your experience may differ.

Winners!

There's no better way to start off the week than with some winners! Let's see who last week's lucky folks are...

The winner of the $25 Gift Certificate to EcoMom.com is...

Louis said... 50

I subscribed to your feed via mail (same as in my profile / this post)

August 24, 2010 1:09 AM

The winner of the Yo Gabba Gabba Medicine-Time Spray is...

FDP 4 Life said... 24

when our children are sick i try to comfort them by being with them and getting them whatever they need.

susansmoaks at gmail dot com

August 26, 2010 12:56 PM

And last, but certainly not least, the winner of the Scholastic Treasures Rosemary Wells 2-DVD set is...

loni said... 163

I want to win this for my niece!

trippyjanet at hotmail dot com

August 28, 2010 7:02 PM

Congratulations, winners! I will be contacting you within the next 24 hours and you will have 48 hours to reply before another winner is chosen.

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who entered and to the lovely giveaway sponsors for making it all possible!

Please be sure to check out the rest of my current giveaways, including a bedding product from Protect-A-Bed - valued up to $100! - ending tomorrow night!

Review and Giveaway: William Avery's Learning Buffet

Thank you to Yummy English Snack Productions and William Avery for participating in the Bloggy Birthday Blowout Event on Goodie Goodie Gumdrops!

Here at Goodie Goodie Gumdrops, our ears love to indulge in melodious treats. From sugary sweet pop to spicy, savory rock, we've sampled many yummy tracks over the past year. But we hadn't discovered the musical equivalent to soul food until we found William Avery's Learning Buffet.

William Avery got his start in children's music while teaching English in Taiwan. A friend asked him to write original poems or chants for class and later, to set them to music. He got such a wonderful response, that it snowballed into something greater. William combines his experience and knowledge to produce his music. He relies on his students for direct feedback, so only the perfect ingredients go into a "Yummy English Snack".

While heavily influenced by hip-hop, William is also proficient in violin and piano, which he uses to express his feelings and moods. After a friend taught him the Jazz C scale in college, he began to interlace it into his own unique style.

His latest release, Learning Buffet is a hearty mix of stories, educational themes and phonic drills, marinated in a variety of genres.

Learning Buffet is 100% cool teaching from the soul. Children of all ages come back for seconds when learning the 50 state capitals, the American presidents, the 8 planets, 206 bones in the body, Mandarin Chinese and more... Served with fresh beats and bottomless imagination, each selection is seasoned with pizzazz and blends a tasty fusion of education and fun marinated in jazz, blues, pop, funk and hip hop. Enjoy a smorgasbord of 32 tasty tunes.

Track Listing:

1. Really (Instrumental)
2. Reading Is Fundamental
3. Trey and Lovely
4. Thank You Mean Ole Dog
5. I Am a Big Boy (Wash My Hands)
6. Snail Is Bored
7. Love My Cat
8. #1 Potion H2O
9. America, the Grand Tour (50 State Capitals)
10. American Presidents
11. 206 Bones
12. Sailing (Oceans and Continents)
13. Twinkle Twinkle Little Sun (8 Planets)
14. My Good Friend (Learn Chinese)
15. What's Your Agenda?
16. ABC Chant – ABC Animals
17. Short Phonics Drill
18. Long Phonics Examples
19. The Y Song
20. Bamalama Phonics Time (OW)
21. Bamalama Phonics Time (OO)
22. Bamalama Phonics Time (PH)
23. Bamalama Phonics Time (OI)
24. Bamalama Phonics Time (AR)
25. Bamalama Phonics Time (NG)
26. Rainbow Stylin’
27. Yummy Tummy Special (Monday - Sunday)
28. 12 Months (January - December)
29. Opposite
30. Flavors
31. Skinny Mosquito
32. Kangaroo

Many children's projects are deemed educational. But only with Learning Buffet are you taught everything from opposites to phonics to human anatomy. Each song has a lesson to be learned. Except you won't mind this homework! With invigorating beats and a hip-hop style reminiscent of the Sugarhill Gang or Run DMC, William Avery is the teacher everyone in school crosses their fingers for.

This album is a welcome departure from traditional children's music. It is unlike any family record I've heard before, which makes me want to hit repeat. I normally can't play hip-hop music for Nate because the content is entirely inappropriate. But that has all changed now thanks to Learning Buffet. The rap rhythms make it easier to remember important facts, like presidents and planets. My personal favorite is "America, The Grand Tour". The instrumentals are hot and the lyrics are catchy. If I didn't know my 50 state capitals, I sure would now!

I was chillin' in
Tallahassee, Florida
I saw an awkward alligator
It was coming at me,
so I headed for the border
Runnin' top speed to
Atlanta, Georgia
Stopped at a restaurant, ordered peach pie
Tasted so good I said "My oh my"
left a big tip for the waitress at the diner
Next
Columbia, South Carolina

I also really enjoyed the funky "206 Bones", which counts and names the bones in each part of our bodies, and cowbell-heavy "Yummy Tummy Special", which emphasizes the seven days of the week. Nate's favorite seemed to be the germ-free, "I Am A Big Boy (Wash My Hands)". I think he may be trying to tell me something. While most of the songs are light-hearted and playful, there are some profound tracks such as "Thank You Mean Ole Dog", which chronicles Avery's near kidnapping at the age of three.

With a whopping 32 tracks, Learning Buffet is one memorable meal. We'll definitely be serving ourselves another heaping spoonful of these delicious vittles!

BUY IT: You can purchase Learning Buffet online at CDBaby.com, Digistation, or Amazon.com (ARV $12.98).

WIN IT: One lucky reader is going to win their own copy of Learning Buffet!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Visit YESnack.com, listen to the Learning Buffet tracks (or read the lyrics if you don't have a QuickTime plugin!) and tell me which song you like most. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile or if you are not a blogger!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry)

2.) Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You may use the following tweet or come up with one of your own:

Serve your child a hefty helping of educational fun with the Learning Buffet CD @kris10chumley! Ends 9/12 http://bit.ly/ctXHxx

Just leave a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry)

3.) "Like" Goodie Goodie Gumdrops on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) Add my button to your site and leave a comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on September 12, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winners will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this album from William Avery of Yummy English Snack Productions to facilitate my honest review. I was not compensated in any other way for this post. The opinions expressed in this review are purely my own. Your experience may differ.

Our Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! Concert Experience

As you know, last night, my family and I had the pleasure of attending the Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! event in Bristow, VA. Let me just say...it was spectacular! The weather was hot and we were sweating up a storm from all of the dancing but we had an amazing time. This experience will definitely be a cherished life-long memory for me.

When we first arrived at the pavilion, we secured our tickets and made our way to the front gate. We had to make a pit stop at a blue fountain that had mesmerized Nate. He wouldn't even look away for a photo.

The courteous staff helped us find our seats (which were super, by the way) and we killed time by donning our DJ Lance glasses, grabbing some bottled water and scoping out the venue.

I wasn't sure how Nate would react, as this was his very first concert and well, he can be a temperamental toddler. But he did great! He was a little restless in his seat at first but once he spotted the Yo Gabba Gabba decor, he grew so excited for the show to start.

The moment they started playing the Yo Gabba Gabba! theme song, the audience roared. DJ Lance came out first, saying his magic words to bring the rest of the gang to life. They got us all off our feet to sing and dance along.

For the Super Music Friends Show segment, we were introduced to an indie-rock band called Steel Train. I had never heard of them before but they were great! Nate was jumping and dancing all around, getting his sillies out. I'll definitely have to check out some of their albums.

Nate loves balloons so we were excited to hear the song,"Balloons Make Me Happy". Nate was clapping his hands as Brobee floated up in the air. At the end of the song, they released balloons from the rafters for all of us in the audience! All three of us were able to snag a balloon buddy.

After a short intermission, the gang came back out with a bang. Muno and Foofa came down our row and shook our hands! I had never seen Nate grin so big. I wish I could have taken a better picture but this one was taken just after we met Foofa.

We were then treated to an extra-special "Peanut Butter Stomp" Dancey-Dance with special guest Do It (who was featured on the Season 1 "Dance" episode) and Biz Markie came out for his ultra-cool "Beat of the Day" segment. He even invited several preschoolers up on stage to mimic his beat, which was the cutest thing.

We were having so much fun and didn't want our time to end but inevitably, we had to say goodbye. But not before our friends concluded with everyone's favorite "Party in My Tummy" song.

We had such a blast! Nate even cried as we left the pavilion because he wanted to stay and party. If you're a Yo Gabba Gabba! fan, you will undoubtedly adore this show. It is entertaining and just pure fun!

Wanna catch a Party in Your City? Check out tour locations and dates and purchase tickets online at www.yogabbagabbalive.com. You don't want to miss it!

I would like to graciously thank Michelle Sisco P.R. for the opportunity to attend the Bristow, VA show. It was our most memorable family outing to date, for sure!

Disclaimer: I received three free tickets to attend the Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! show in Bristow, VA and share my experience on my blog. I was not compensated in any other way for this post. All opinions expressed are purely my own. Your experience may differ.

Yo Gabba Gabba! "Cool Tricks" Contest

The big day is finally upon us...tomorrow night, we will be attending the Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! show in Bristow, VA! I am so excited! I can't wait to see Nate's face light up as he sees his favorite characters on stage. Of course, I'll be reporting back to you to tell you all about our experience, complete with photojournalism. But first, I have to share a cool new contest with you!

If you've ever seen Yo Gabba Gabba!, you're probably familiar with the "Cool Tricks" segment, where children and adults show off their special talent or skill (gymnastics, cup stacking, breakdancing, etc.). Celebrities such as Tony Hawk performing a skateboard move and Rhys Darby doing the robot have appeared on "Cool Tricks".

Well, now fans across North American can show off their unique talents by entering the Cool Tricks contest! Just upload a :30-:60 video demonstrating your child's cool trick for the opportunity to win a VIP Family 4-pack and have their winning video played during intermission at the KIA Motors Presents Yo Gabba Gabba! Live!: There's A Party in My City! show closest to their hometown. All participants are automatically entered into a sweepstakes where one lucky fan will receive a 5-night trip for four to the Caribbean or Mexico! Grand prize includes round-trip airfare, Junior Suite accommodations, and all meals to a choice of Palladium Hotels & Resorts.

But that's not all! Each winner will also receive $100 worth of organic baby and toddler food, lunchbox snacks and two “Party In My Lunchbox” Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! concert t-shirts from Revolution Foods and Plum Organics.

To enter the contest, visit the Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! Facebook fan page and upload your video. Winners will be determined by a public vote in each tour market. So, be sure to get all your friends and family to vote!

The "Cool Tricks" contest is live now through Sunday, December 12, 2010. Winners will be notified and announced prior to the show date in each local market. See the official rules on the Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! Facebook page.

Disclaimer: I will be receiving three free tickets from Michelle Sisco P.R. to attend the Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! show in Bristow, VA on 8/28/10 and facilitate my candid review. I have not been and will not be compensated in any other way.

Review and Giveaway: All Around Ralph's World

Thank you to Bar None Records and Ralph's World for participating in the Bloggy Birthday Blowout Event at Goodie Goodie Gumdrops!

Summer vacation may be over but that doesn't mean we can't still explore new worlds and new places with our little ones. With just a little imagination, it's easy to take flight wherever and whenever you want to go. First stop on our imaginary tour? A little place known as Ralph's World.

Grammy-nominated musician and esteemed playwright Ralph Covert began his career with the critically-acclaimed, Chicago-based indie rock band The Bad Examples in the 90's. He also penned several adult dramas and children's stage musicals, including "The Hundred Dresses" and "A Nutty Nutcracker Christmas", before becoming the kids music sensation he is today. You've probably heard his catchy collaboration from the new Huggies Pull-Ups commercials, "The Potty Dance". (You know, "Do the...*clap, clap*...potty dance...")

All Around Ralph's World is Covert's ninth family release, containing sixteen original songs that run the gamut from rock to pop to country to showtunes. Through Ralph's compelling storytelling, we blast off to the limits of our imagination as we encounter a robot, a dog, and a caterpillar - just to name a few of the endearing characters on the album.

Track Listing:

1. The Great Outdoors
2. My Magic Trick
3. Wiggle Your Lah-De-Dah
4. Easy Ryders
5. All About Bob
6. All Around the World
7. Black Hole Boy
8. Blue Airplane
9. The First Time
10. Pickle Me Juice
11. Sally's Trip
12. Bubblegum
13. The Funniest Joke in the World
14. A Dog Named Bruce
15. The Robot Looked at the Stars
16. I'm Not Tired

All Around Ralph's World is officially our new go-to car ride companion. Its laid-back, free spirit vibe makes it the perfect soundtrack for travel. I love that the music doesn't make my son too hyper like some of our more rock-oriented albums and the track lengths are palatable for the shortest of toddler attention spans. It's a gentle album that will have your little one's imagination soaring to new heights.

The stand-out songs for me were the intergalactic vaudeville tune "My Magic Trick", the effortless soft pop ballad "Blue Airplane" and the silly, bluegrass tune "Pickle Me Juice", which was co-written with Ralph's daughter, Fiona. I also really enjoyed the dreamy, "The Robot Looked at the Stars", which immediately brought to mind U2.

Whether you're looking to escape on four wheels or only in your mind, you'll definitely want to detour to Ralph's World.

BUY IT: You can purchase All Around Ralph's World at most major music retailers and online at Amazon.com or Ralph's World Store (ARV $13.98).

WIN IT: Bar None Records is generously offering two lucky winners a Ralph's World prize pack including the All Around Ralph's World CD, a Ralph's World Rocks t-shirt and autographed goodies!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Visit Ralph's World, have a listen to the playlist on the homepage and tell me which song you like most. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile or if you are not a blogger!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry)

2.) Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You may use the following tweet or come up with one of your own:

#Win a Ralph's World prize pack w/CD, tee and autographed goodies from @kris10chumley! Ends 9/10 http://bit.ly/aJkK3M

Just leave a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry)

3.) "Like" Goodie Goodie Gumdrops on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) Become a fan of Ralph's World on Facebook. (1 entry)

5.) Add my button to your site and leave a comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on September 10, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winners will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this album from Mark at Bar None Records to facilitate my candid review. I was not compensated in any other way for this post. The opinions expressed in this review and solely my own. Your experience may differ.

Review and Giveaway: Monkey Monkey Music with Meredith LeVande

Thank you to Monkey Monkey Music and Waldmania! for participating in the Bloggy Birthday Blowout Event on Goodie Goodie Gumdrops!

There's been somewhat of an explosion in the kindie music arena. Musicians are starting to realize that while we parents don't want to expose our kiddos to inappropriate material, we don't necessarily want to sacrifice the music we love in favor of a goofy purple dinosaur. But this can be a double-edged sword. Some artists become so focused on being "sophisticated" for adults that they lose sight of what appeals to tots. But one act is determined to put the "child back into children's music": Monkey Monkey Music with Meredith LeVande.

Meredith LeVande is what some refer to as the "Renaissance Woman of children's music". Survivor of a traumatic childhood, Meredith coped with her reality through song. After earning degrees in various disciplines such as Women's Studies, Law and Music, Meredith began her career on the college circuit. An impromptu performance of traditional children's songs before a crowd of families led her to her true calling as a children's musician. It was then the Monkey Monkey Music project was born.

Her 2005 debut children's album, Monkey Monkey Music with Meredith LeVande, became an instant hit, designated as a Parenting Magazine "pick" and receiving heavy airplay on Sirius Satellite Radio. Her second full-length children's CD, What Are the Odds?, is due out this month and promises to deliver the same charm and emotional
appeal that makes her intimate live shows so special.

Track Listing:

1. Hello (New)
2. What Are The Odds?
3. Shake It Loud
4. This Way, That Way
5. In The Garden
6. Wheels
7. Air Guitar
8. Frogs Eat Butterflies
9. Circle
10. Turn Your Body Around
11. Bubbles
12. Who's a Knockin'?
13. Silly Animal Friends
14. Guess What I Am
15. Willow Tree in the Wind
16. Goodbye (New)

What Are The Odds? is like preschool in a pint-sized package. Meredith LeVande merges the folk stylings of Lisa Loeb with the imagination and interaction of Laurie Berkner for a delighfully simple yet honest children's record.

From mathematics and dance to animal sounds and knock-knock jokes, Monkey Monkey Music keeps the tone educational but fun. My personal favorite is the clever title track, "What Are The Odds?", which makes it easier than ever to memorize odd numbers ("...one head...three strikes...five fingers...seven days of the weeks...nine planets..."). I also loved "In the Garden", which made me hungry enough to eat a rainbow and the Burt Bacharach-esque game of charades, "Guess What I Am".

Monkey Monkey Music will have your little monkey movin' and groovin'. And expanding that cranium too.

BUY IT: What Are The Odds? will be released on August 31, 2010 and will be available online at Amazon.com, CDBaby.com and www.monkeymonkeymusic.com. (ARV $14.99)

WIN IT: One lucky reader is going to win a copy of the album!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Listen to the album track samples and tell me which song you like most. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile or if you are not a blogger!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry)

2.) Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You may use the following tweet or come up with one of your own:

Tunes for your toddler - win What Are The Odds? from Monkey Monkey Music with Meredith LeVande @kris10chumley Ends 9/9 http://bit.ly/bK7neI

Just leave a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry)

3.) "Like" Goodie Goodie Gumdrops on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) Add my button to your site and leave a comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on September 9, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winners will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this album from Elizabeth at Waldmania! to facilitate my candid review. I was not compensated in any other way for this post. The opinions expressed in this review and solely my own. Your experience may differ.

Review and Giveaway: The Okee Dokee Brothers' Take It Outside

Thank you to the Okee Dokee Bros. and Sugar Mountain P.R. for participating in the Bloggy Birthday Blowout Event on Goodie Goodie Gumdrops!

It seems like summer just arrived and already it's nearing its end. The kids are heading back to school. Soon, the weather will grow cooler. We'll trade swimsuits for sweaters and the pool for the pumpkin patch. But the spirit of summer doesn't have to fade. You can capture the warmth and wonder of the season year-round with the Okee Dokee Brothers.

This Twin Cities duo aren't actually brothers at all. Childhood best friends Joe Mailander and Justin Lansing first got their start in a bluegrass band, touring the Midwest and fulfilling their lifelong dream of being professional singer-songwriters. Staying true to their folk roots, they tapped into where it all began: their childhood. So, they picked up and moved to Minneapolis to start the kindie band that would become the Okee Dokee Brothers. Following on the heels of their critically-acclaimed 2008 debut album, Kids with Beards, comes their brand new sophomore album Take it Outside. This collection of 13 original songs encapsulates one magical day in the life of a child, and is designed to get kids - and families - on their feet and out the door.

Track Listing:

1. Bluegrass for Breakfast
2. Neighbors
3. Tippy Toes
4. Hero
5. Wash Your Face
6. Lucy and Tighty
7. Water Balloon
8. Antidisestablishmentarianism
9. Auctioneer
10. What We Got
11. The Naked Truth
12. The Extraterrestrials
13. Sweet Dreams

If Sesame Street changed its backdrop to the backwoods of Tennessee, then the Okee Dokee Brothers would be your musical tour guides.

Listening to the album made me flash back to my youthful days, when tire swings didn't make me dizzy, when I loved the feeling of grass between my toes and a film of dirt on my skin and I didn't think twice about jumping into a lake fully clothed. From the time you wake up to "Bluegrass for Breakfast" until you tuck yourself into bed for "Sweet Dreams", you're in for wholesome, homegrown fun.

Each song tells a story or teaches a lesson, with a sense of humor that kids and parents alike can appreciate. Learn the longest word in the English language ("Antidisestablishmentarianism"), boost your vocabulary with words like "lackadaisically" or "introvertedly" ("Lucy and Tighty"), or try to speak fast like an "Auctioneer". My personal favorites are "Neighbors", which encourages the acceptance of differences - even those who "think it's cruel to murder a vegetable" - and "Hero", a country-pop ditty that makes you wonder if you have the "guts or the glory" to be a caped crusader. "The Naked Truth", about none other than a boy in the buff, describes my little nudist perfectly and made me laugh out loud. Even thought he couldn't understand the lyrics, Nate was jumping and dancing around to the organic bluegrass sound. The Okee Dokee Brothers sure know how to host a toe-tapping, knee-slapping, heck of a time.

BUY IT: You can listen to samples and/or purchase Take it Outside from www.okeedokee.org or CDBaby.com (ARV $12.97).

WIN IT: One lucky reader is going to win a copy of the album!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Listen to the album track samples and tell me which song you like best. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile or if you are not a blogger!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry)

2.) Follow me and the Okee Dokee Brothers on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You may use the following tweet or come up with one of your own:

Win the newest album from the @OkeeDokeeBrothers, Take it Outside, from @kris10chumley Ends 9/8 http://bit.ly/aNTuZ5

Just leave a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry)

3.) Become a fan of the Okee Dokee Brothers on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) "Like" Goodie Goodie Gumdrops on Facebook. (1 entry)

5.) Add my button to your site and leave a comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on September 8, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winners will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this album from Beth at Sugar Mountain P.R. to facilitate my candid review. I was not compensated in any other way for this post. The opinions expressed in this review and purely my own. Your experience may differ.

Woohoo for Winners!

Better late than never, right?! Let's see who last week's lucky winners are!

The winner of the rainbow tub of Mary's Soft Dough is...

aledol said... 12

g~rd~fd

July 28, 2010 4:47 PM

The winner of the Wubbzy Goes to School DVD is...

Nicole said... 98

Tweeted http://twitter.com/pittsy82/status/21525872183

pittsy82@hotmail.com

August 18, 2010 6:34 PM

The winner of the Mimi the Sardine backpack and messy bib set is...

justicecw said... 46

I am a GFC follower
justicecw@hotmail.com

August 12, 2010 10:48 PM

And last but not least, the winner of The Not-Its' Time Out to Rock CD is...

Julia said... 35

green light, go
[11newmom at gmail]

August 22, 2010 9:27 PM

Congratulations, winners! Emails will be sent tonight and you will have 48 hours to respond. If I don't hear from you by the deadline, I will have to choose another recipient.

Thank you to all who entered and to the always awesome giveaway sponsors, without whom this blog would not be possible!

Don't forget to check out the rest of my current giveaways, including a $15 EcoMom gift certificate - ending tonight!

Review and Giveaway: Tropical Traditions Coconut Flour

I may be a kitchen enigma but while I could do without cooking, I actually do enjoy baking. Of course, who doesn't love some warm, straight-out-of-the-oven goodies? I can always count on Tropical Traditions to add a delicious, seasonal flair to my baked goods. From their virgin coconut oil and coconut cream concentrate to their coconut flakes and organic raw honey, I'm always impressed with the quality and taste of their products. So, naturally, I was excited to try out their Organic Coconut Flour.

Tropical Traditions Organic Coconut Flour is derived from the fiber of the coconut meat after most of the oil has been extracted to make Virgin Coconut Oil. It is certified organic, gluten-free, unsweetened and untreated. It is high in dietary fiber and protein, making it a great substitute for traditional grains or wheat-based recipes. And because is contains natural sugar from the coconut meat, you'll need less sugar added to your recipes!

After perusing a number of recipes, I decided to make some fruit-filled muffins as a breakfast treat for Nate and I.

Gluten Free Strawberry Coconut Muffins

Servings: 6-12 muffins
Preparation: 10 minutes

• 1/2 cup coconut flour
• 1/2 tsp Himalayan salt
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 6 eggs
• 1/3 cup raw honey
• 1/3 cup coconut oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup strawberries, fresh or frozen, chopped

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a small bowl, combine coconut flour, salt and baking soda.

In a large bowl mix the eggs, honey, coconut oil and vanilla until well blended. Mix dry ingredients into the wet, blending with a hand mixer or by hand. Gently fold in strawberries.

Place batter in paper lined muffin tins and pour batter in about 1/2 - 3/4 full.

Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Take them out and let them cool and serve topped with Strawberry Cream Cheese (optional).

These muffins were mmm...mmm...good! Spongy texture and just a very mild coconut flavor, which accented the strawberry beautifully. They were awfully pretty to look at too:

Even Nate gobbled them up and we know how picky he can be!

I didn't have the ingredients for it on hand but their optional cream cheese topping sounds fab. I'll definitely have to give that a go next time!

Cream Cheese Topping

• 1 cup homemade or store bought cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup chopped strawberries, fresh or frozen
• 1 - 3 tbsp raw honey, to taste

Place everything in a blender or food processor and blend till smooth. Store in an airtight container in the fridge. When muffins are ready, generously top each muffin and enjoy!

I bet they'd also taste great with some lightly toasted coconut flakes on top or even a warm honey glaze. *drool*

I can't wait to do more baking with my Organic Coconut Flour. I think I may attempt the Grapefruit Pound Cake or Lime in the Coconut Cookies. (Can you tell I'm on a fruit kick?) I love that it is versatile, gluten-free and all-natural. I may even use it to thicken up my smoothies.

BUY IT: Want to try some for yourself? I know you do! Visit www.tropicaltraditions.com to purchase the Coconut Flour (ARV $10.95) or browse their vast variety of organic products.

DELECTABLE DEAL: When you place your order, make sure you choose "referred by friend" from the "How did you hear about us?" drop-down box and reference my ID #5429861 to receive a complimentary copy of the book Virgin Coconut Oil: How it has changed people's lives, and how it can change yours! by Brian and Marianita Jader Shilhavy!

WIN IT: One lucky reader is going to win their own 2 lb. bag of Tropical Traditions Organic Coconut Flour!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Visit Tropical Traditions and tell me another product you'd love to try. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog and/or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry each)

2.) Follow me and Tropical Traditions on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You can do this daily! You may use the following tweet or come up with one of your own:

Win a 2lb. bag of organic coconut flour from @troptraditions and @kris10chumley! Ends 9/9 http://bit.ly/aZMwYd

Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry per day max)

3.) Subscribe to the Tropical Traditions newsletter. (2 entries!)

4.) Become a fan of Tropical Traditions on Facebook. (1 entry)

5.) "Like" Goodie Goodie Gumdrops on Facebook. (1 entry)

6.) Add my button to your site and comment with a link where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on September 9, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. and Canada. Winner will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: As mentioned above, I was sent a bag of Organic Coconut Flour from Tropical Traditions to facilitate my candid review. I was in no other way compensated for this post. I was under no obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review and mine and mine alone. Your experience may differ.