Pink Lemonade

Natural Remedies for Cold and Flu Season

2009-11-11T06:02:00.000-08:00

With the flu virus all over the media, I thought it would be a good idea to look at natural alternatives for prevention and remedies. There are some tried and true cold/flu prevention and remedies to keep handy, especially if you would like to avoid the chemicals included in so many over-the-counter medicines.

Natural Prevention

Nature provides us with a lot of natural germ fighters. Herbs such as Garlic, Astragalus and Propolis extract are thought to be natural viral killers. These can be found in capsule form at most health food stores.

Another proven germ fighter is yogurt. Some studies show that eating a daily cup of low-fat yogurt can reduce your susceptibility to viruses by 25 percent. Researchers think the beneficial bacteria in yogurt may stimulate production of immune system substances that fight disease.

Natural Remedies

If you happen to get sick this year, there are many natural choices to alleviate your symptoms.

Essential Oils
Pour peppermint oil or eucalyptus into a hot bath to stimulate and relax sore muscles. Eucalyptus and camphor oils can also be inhaled in steam shower or through a hanky to alleviate congestion.

Honey
A gargle made with honey is a natural way to alleviate a sore throat. Steep one tablespoon of lemon juice in two cups of hot water; mix with one teaspoon of honey. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before gargling.

Teas and warm liquids
Hot liquids relieve nasal congestion, help prevent dehydration, and can soothe the uncomfortably inflamed membranes that line your nose and throat. Teas that are also thought to help boost immunity include Green Tea, Echinacea and Ginger.

What other natural remedies work for you? Let us know.

Until next week, have a safe, happy and healthy week ahead.

- Coach Jenn of PersonalFitCoach.com and Yeahtips.com

Featured weekly on Pink Lemonade Online Magazine

Raising an Organized Student

2009-11-10T07:07:00.000-08:00

Report cards came out last week in our school district. While my boys are doing well academically, I always look at the comments from the teachers to see how they are doing organizationally. Are they missing assignments, not turning in homework, etc. Those are all signs of a child struggling with organization.

If your child is having issues staying organized here are some helpful tips:

Go through their book bag with them each day and have them sort out papers that need thrown away, papers that need to be looked at by parents, papers that need to be turned in to the teacher, etc.

Use color coded folders and book covers for different subjects so it is easy for your child to put papers where they belong.

Have kids get their school stuff ready the night before, including showing you the assignments that are due, etc.

Schedule homework time.

Write due dates for projects, test, etc. on the family calendar so you can help keep your child on track.

With my chronically disorganized son, I had to make a rule that he cleaned out his locker one time a week. I only had to go into the school and do it for him one time for him to never "forget" again.

Being a disorganized student can affect your child's grades and self esteem. It is still early enough in the school year to help your child get and stay on track. Helping them organize their school work and manage their time is an investment in their future.

Happy Organizing!

Melissa

Posted by Melissa of Multitasking Mama

Featured Weekly on Pink Lemonade Online Magazine

Slow-cooker hot mulled cider

2009-11-09T08:25:00.000-08:00

When it is cold outside mulled cider is a delicious treat that is easy to make, warms your insides and makes the house smell fabulous. We like to do it in the slow-cooker to enjoy the fragrance for hours.

1 gallon apple cider

1/3 cup brown sugar

15 whole cloves

10 whole allspice berries

5 sticks cinnamon
Zest of 2 oranges

Place all ingredients in slow cooker and heat on low 8-10 hours. You can enjoy a mug after 2 hours or so, the longer it heats, the stronger the flavor.

For an extra festive touch for the adults you can add brandy or rum.

A delicious twist is mulled cranberry juice using cranberry juice, Craisins, a dash of vanilla and honey.

Enjoy.

Sherry

Posted by Sherry of Loon-atics In The Kitchen

Featured Weekly on Pink Lemonade Online Magazine

An Attitude of Gratitude

2009-11-06T05:19:00.000-08:00

It always amazes me that the moment Halloween is over, the Christmas and other December holiday decorations instantly make their way to the store shelves. The Thanksgiving holiday always seems to get smashed in with the other winter holidays (whichever you choose to celebrate). The autumn decorations make way for snowflakes and jolly elves.

This focus on the gift centered holidays as opposed to the gratitude focused holiday seems to send a message to children that they are entitled to gifts without an expression of gratitude for the gifts received. How can we cultivate an attitude of gratitude in our children when we send the opposite message?

Don’t skip Thanksgiving! Of course, we never actually skip Thanksgiving; we cook the traditional meal: a turkey with all the trimmings, mashed potatoes slathered in butter and gravy, jello salads, rolls, pies… But do we take the time to remember to express our gratitude for what we have received? Or do we quickly rush off to the store to begin our Christmas shopping? Do we thank our parents for their love at support? Do we thank the children for working hard at their chores? Or do we plan our Christmas Tree finding excursion? Taking time during the Thanksgiving season to express our gratitude to others is a great way to help our children remember to express their thanks.

During this time of economic hardship it can be hard to feel gratitude. I love a quote that I recently found from William Arthur Ward, he says,”Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.” The expression of gratitude can help us get through these difficult times, especially our children. Children have an amazing ability to adjust to a new set of circumstances. Gratitude for what they do have can help take the focus off of what they do not.

As parents, we set the example. It does not matter how many times we tell our children to thank others, if they do not see us expressing gratitude they will learn that it is not important. But if we do remember to thank others they will likewise learn to express thanks. Thank the cashier at Wal Mart for their help. Thank your child’s coach for their hard work and dedication. Thank a teacher for spending extra time with your child. Your child will learn to follow your example. And I always feel better when I have remembered to thank someone; it puts a spring in my step and a smile on my face.

Cultivating an attitude of gratitude will not happen overnight, but as you set the example and encourage the expression of thanks, slowly you will see it grow and develop not only in your children, but in yourself as well.

- Christine

Posted by Christine of Random Thoughts With Chris

Featured weekly on Pink Lemonade Online Magazine

The Holiday Season Makes Spirits Brighter for Celebrations with Family and Friends at Disneyland Resort

2009-11-05T11:23:00.000-08:00

New Entertainment, Cherished Favorites

Bring Holidays to Life

When it comes to celebrating the magic and sparkle of the holidays with friends and loved ones, there’s no place like the Disneyland Resort where, from Nov. 13 through Jan. 3, 2010, the holidays will shine more brightly than ever.

Guests will enjoy the return of the Disneyland Resort’s most popular offerings, including special holiday versions of “it’s a small world” and Haunted Mansion, along with colorful holiday décor and a nightly snowfall on Main Street, U.S.A.

Other holiday highlights at Disneyland will include the traditional snowdrifts and icicles adorning Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle. After dark a sensational holiday lighting and special effects show will carry the magic of the holidays from the castle all the way to the Christmas tree in Town Square. The Disneyland Christmas tree is specially designed to present a nightly holiday light show like no other with more than 62,000 energy-efficient LED lights.

The Sleeping Beauty Winter Castle presentation unfolds throughout the evening in three acts, each of them featuring a touch of winter snow on Main Street, U.S.A. The finale of the show includes the legendary “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks show, which takes guests on a journey of sights and sounds of the season and ends with a touching rendition of “White Christmas” along with a climactic snowfall swirling down on Main Street, U.S.A., “it’s a small world” Mall and New Orleans Square.

Themed entertainment, sparkling decorations and tasty treats add festive warmth to holiday fun at both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure. Guests will also be able to book guided holiday tours that provide entry into the “it’s a small world” holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday, reserved seating for the Disneyland “A Christmas Fantasy” parade, a keepsake remembrance, and entertaining information about the history behind Disneyland holiday traditions. For information and reservations guests can visit Disneyland City Hall or call 714/781-4400.

Other returning holiday favorites at Disneyland park include:

“it’s a small world” holiday transforms “it’s a small world” into a worldwide celebration of the season, boasting more than 300,000 glittering lights on its facade.

Haunted Mansion Holiday presents a madcap celebration as the traditions of Halloween and Christmas collide. The ghoulish but well-meaning Jack Skellington from the film “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” has come to the Haunted Mansion to transform it with his skewed vision of the holidays.

“A Christmas Fantasy” parade will be presented daily, Nov. 13 through Jan. 3, on Main Street, U.S.A. This ever-popular procession depicts an enchanting collection of holiday scenes, music and a cast of Disney characters and performers in yuletide vignettes.

Santa Claus and his reindeer will return to greet Disneyland guests in Frontierland at Big Thunder Ranch. Kids and their families will chat with St. Nick and see real reindeer grazing in a corral.

Disney’s California Adventure celebrates the season with fanciful park-wide decorations and lively entertainment.

Guests approaching the park will immediately get in the holiday mood as they encounter the iconic “CALIFORNIA” letters transformed to appear as swirling red and white peppermint sticks.

“a bug’s land” transforms as Flik and his bug buddies spread giant Christmas lights and oversized ornaments throughout their realm.

The holiday scene along the Paradise Bay boardwalk includes a beautifully decorated Christmas tree and lampposts decorated with seasonal wreaths.

The ever-popular “Disney’s Electrical Parade” will be presented nightly at the height of the holiday season, Dec. 18 through Jan. 3, 2010.

Additional new and continuing shows and attractions at Disneyland Resort:

"Tiana’s Showboat Jubilee!,” which begins daily performances Nov. 6 in New Orleans Square in Disneyland, will be a rousing, colorful show with a jazz-filled holiday celebration vibe. It will begin as guests are invited to join a Mardi Gras-style cavalcade in New Orleans Square. The cavalcade will lead guests to the waterfront where Princess Tiana and other “Princess and the Frog” characters will board the Mark Twain Riverboat. The boat will then take to the river where Tiana and company will entertain guests on shore with a musical show including songs from the motion picture.

In Disney’s California Adventure, the “Pixar Play Parade” is complemented by performances of the energetic, traveling rock and dance concert show, “High School Musical 3: Senior Year-Right Here! Right Now!”

In Blue Sky Cellar at Golden Vine Winery, the Imagineers’ workshop offers guests a preview of new attractions coming to Disney’s California Adventure over the next few years.

Guests along Paradise Pier in Disney’s California Adventure will also enjoy such new and refreshed attractions as Toy Story Mania!, Mickey’s Fun Wheel and the Games of the Boardwalk.

At Disneyland in December, guests will explore the newly relocated Disney Gallery on Town Square, Main Street, U.S.A. Next door, The Disneyland Story featuring Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln is scheduled to reopen in late December with new technology and an enhanced presentation.

The Downtown Disney district and the Disneyland Resort hotels will join in the merriment with twinkling lights and ornaments, special entertainment and holiday dining. Expanded hours at both Disneyland Resort theme parks will extend the holiday fun. For more information about holidays at the Disneyland Resort, visit www.disneyland.com

Disneyland Resort features two fantastic theme parks – Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure park – plus the Downtown Disney District comprised of unique dining, entertainment and shopping experiences. The resort’s three guest-welcoming hotels are the luxurious 945-room Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, the magical 988-room Disneyland Hotel and the “day-at-the-beach” fun of the 489-room Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel. For information on new attractions, “What Will You Celebrate?” and vacations at Disneyland Resort visit www.disneyland.com, call 866/60-DISNEY or contact local travel agents.

Can Your Friends or Lovers be Holding You Back?

2009-11-05T04:47:00.000-08:00

I can remember getting what for me was my first big break in my budding media career. I squealed with delight when the producer called from a popular syndicated radio show asking to interview me. My heart pounded, my mouth went dry ~ I had worked so hard and now it seemed things were about to unfold. I was ecstatic.

After I enthusiastically accepted the invitation, naturally I couldn’t wait to tell the three people closest to me (okay, and a few strangers along the way, I couldn’t contain myself). The funny thing was, the one person I thought would be the happiest for me was anything but. Upset by his confusing affect, I pressed the matter. “Aren’t you happy for me? This is what I have worked so hard for, to get the message out there, but you seem upset?” He looked at me and unexpectedly said, “Now what, you’re going to be some big star and have to start traveling. I don’t want to be with someone who …” He didn’t finish the sentence. He didn’t have to, as it turned out; his attitude towards me and my being successful was a major culprit in ending our relationship a few painful years and many missed opportunities later. Opportunities that I passed up, afraid he would leave me if I didn’t.

It would take me years to identify and learn the importance of surrounding myself with supportive people. The mutual flow of respect and support is essential to all healthy, sustainable relationships. Whether friends or lovers, we all want to believe those closest to us want for us to thrive, to fulfill our dreams and to achieve inner and outer success. Yet when this isn’t our experience, we might want to look more closely at the nature of these relationships.

Signs of un-supportive relationships:

Making ourselves small ~ you notice you place others’ needs or wants above your own, or hold back your wants and desires because you are afraid to alienate friends or lovers.

Hiding our success ~ you hide or minimize or significant events or progress towards your heart’s desires, not to arouse negative response, rejection or criticism

Jealousy~ you notice people who say they love or care about you are giving you mixed messages about your good fortune or advancement toward your goals. I.E. You just graduated from law school, your friend slaps you on the back and sarcastically says, “How does it feel to be part of the bottom-feeders club?” or “Ya know, most lawyers don’t even end up using their degree!”

Undermining~ someone you care about purposely says or does something to throw you off track. Perhaps your single roommate conveniently doesn’t tell you your hot new boy friend called, twice; or doesn’t mention your name to someone who could help your career when they said they would; or worse, bad-mouths you behind your back.

Competitiveness~ maybe your buddy hits on a someone you have had your eye on for quite some time and then says something like, “Hey dude, snooze you lose.” Or picks your brain about your latest idea, takes it without telling you, and uses it themselves without cutting you in.

Devils advocate~ This person is always telling you why you can’t do something or why it won’t work, even when you don’t ask and they’re not an authority on the subject. “No one’s ever done that before.” “You can’t do that; you don’t have a license!” or “Where are you going to get the money to do that?” “She’ll never go out with you!” etc.

If you suspect someone you care about or love is holding you back, consider this: Great relationships begin within! No matter what they’re doing, we need to look first at how we treat and care for ourselves. Relationships stem from this fundamental truth.

*Another of what I call my 7 Essential Truths™ is surround yourself with supportive people! This may take some work, yet you will have a group of people in your life committed to you attracting and creating what you want. One of my husband’s and my marriage vows is “I want what you want for yourself,” and the friends I have today are as much fans of my living a rich, fulfilling life as I am of them doing the same. I am grateful every day to have them all in my lives!

If you have specific questions you want Maryanne to comment on please send your requests to info@maryannelive.com

- Maryanne

by Maryanne Comaroto of Maryanne Live

Featured Weekly on Pink Lemonade Online Magazine

Power Foods for Women

2009-11-04T03:41:00.000-08:00

So many of us focus on what we can’t eat when we are on a diet. Take some time to carefully focus on what you CAN and SHOULD be eating. The following foods are considered powerfoods for women in particular. Just a few of the benefits are highlighted.

Spinach – wonderful anti-cancer properties
Eggs – low cost, high quality protein
peanut butter – antioxidants key to heart health
yogurt – excellent source of calcium and probiotics
oatmeal – filling and satisfying source of fiber
whole grain pasta – whole grain helps reduce a number of health risk factors
tofu – high protein, low fat energy source
salmon – essential Omega-3 fatty acids
blueberries – bursting with nutrients, low in calories

Here are a number of recipes that highlight these great foods.

Basil Tofu
(Source – Tofu-recipe.com)

Ingredients

5 green onions, minced
6 or 8 cloves garlic, minced
1 package firm low-fat tofu, well-drained, sliced and marinated in soy sauce
1 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 teaspoon crushed chili pepper sauce
1 teaspoon soy sauce
cooked brown rice

Cook onions and garlic in water or stock or vinegar until tender. Add marinated tofu and cook another 5-10 minutes. Stir in basil, chili pepper sauce and soy sauce and heat through. Serve over brown rice.

Simple Grilled Salmon
(source: allrecipes.com)

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds salmon fillets
lemon pepper to taste
garlic powder to taste
salt to taste
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup water
1/4 cup vegetable oil

Season salmon fillets with lemon pepper, garlic powder, and salt.
In a small bowl, stir together soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and vegetable oil until sugar is dissolved. Place fish in a large resealable plastic bag with the soy sauce mixture, seal, and turn to coat. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Preheat grill for medium heat.
Lightly oil grill grate. Place salmon on the preheated grill, and discard marinade. Cook salmon for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

-Coach Jenn

Posted by Jenn of Team Beachbody and PersonalFitCoach.com

Featured weekly on Pink Lemonade Online Magazine

Ecoholic

2009-11-02T20:48:00.000-08:00

Environmentalism has reached critical mass. What's missing is what's next. We get it, we're all thinking green - What do we do about it? In a time like this, this book explains how to implement green actions into our everyday lives. Adria Vasil, a best-selling author and journalist, and has written Ecoholic: Your Guide to The Most Environmentally Friendly Information, Products, and Services.

Ecoholic is an eye-opening guide to decoding the green from the greenwashed in the maze of product lining our shelves. Unlike other eco guidebooks, Ecoholic names names and gives you the dirt on what not to buy and why as well as the dish on great clothes, beauty and baby products, home supplies, and more. Ecoholic is a witty and indispensable guide to the small eco choices that make the biggest difference.

U2 Releases Rare Video Footage From The Unforgettable Fire

2009-11-02T09:33:00.000-08:00

With the re-release of U2's fourth album, The Unforgettable Fire, the group has decided to share rarely seen before seen video footage with their fans. The video showcases frontman Bono speaking on the recording process of the breakthrough album and flashes back to some of the most historical songs ever written.

The special edition release of The Unforgettable Fire marks 25 years since the album's original release in October 1984. Recorded at Slane Castle, Ireland, The Unforgettable Fire was the first U2 album to be produced by Brian Eno and Danny Lanois, and spawned two top 10 UK singles - "Pride (In The Name Of Love)" and "The Unforgettable Fire."

The Unforgettable Fire is available now in four different formats, with deluxe editions that feature two previously unheard tracks from the Slane Castle sessions: "Yoshino Blossom", and "Disappearing Act" as well as a limited edition Super Deluxe package which includes a DVD featuring music videos, a documentary and unreleased live footage from the Amnesty International Conspiracy of Hope Tour in 1986.

U2's The Edge, directed the remastering from the original audio tapes, this release is a must have for any U2.

Make sure to check out the video footage in its entirety and visit www.u2.com for more information and for the band's most recent tour dates.

The album is available in four formats:

Limited Edition Box Set: containing 2 CDs (remastered album and bonus audio CD), a DVD with live footage, documentary and videos, a 56 page hardback book with liner notes by The Edge, Brian Eno, Danny Lanois, Bert Van de Kamp and Niall Stokes, and 5 photographic prints

Deluxe Edition: containing 2 CDs; the remastered album, and the bonus audio CD which features B-sides and previously unreleased material, a 36 page booklet with liner notes by The Edge, Brian Eno, Danny Lanois and Bert Van de Kamp

CD format: featuring the remastered album

12" vinyl format: 16 page booklet with liner notes by Brian Eno, Danny Lanois and Bert Van de Kamp

Track listing: A Sort of Homecoming, Pride (In The Name Of Love), Wire, The Unforgettable Fire, Promenade, 4th Of July, Bad, Indian Summer Sky, Elvis Presley and America, MLK

Just what the Dr. ordered- Easy Chicken Noodle Soup

2009-11-02T03:14:00.001-08:00

There's nothing quite like a bowl of chicken noodle soup.

Even if you have a cold or flu, you don't have to resort to storebought when making your own is so easy with just a few simple ingredients.

Starting with store-bought broth to give it that homemade flavor is what really makes this soup stand out (of course, if you make your own that is fine too, but they sell several really good low sodium varieties right at your favorite grocer's.

Easy one pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Saute 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 cup each chopped celery and onion in 1 Tbsp butter until wilted- don't brown

Add 8 cups broth (a combination of chicken and veggie works really well and adds a depth of flavor you just don't get using just chicken broth)

Add 1 cup sliced carrot and 2 chicken breasts, chopped - you can use it raw to save time if you don't have any already cooked, it will get cooked through without harming anything

Season with 1/2 tsp each basil, oregano, poultry seasoning and thyme and salt and pepper to taste

Toss in 1 1/2 cups egg noodles*

Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes

*For a change replace noodles with rice- if using brown rice simmer 40 minutes.

Sherry

Posted by Sherry of Loon-atics In The Kitchen

Featured Weekly on Pink Lemonade Online Magazine

Halls Refresh Mega Product Review & Giveaway

2009-10-30T13:00:00.000-07:00

We all know Halls as the "Cough Drop People", but now they've introduced a new product - Halls Refresh.

Halls Refresh is a mouth refreshing drop with advanced moisture action to help get rid of those dry mouth moments.

The folks at Halls sent me samples of their new Refresh drops. I received samples of Juicy Strawberry and Tropical Wave (along with a really cute T-shirt!).

Mr. Pink Lemonade and I tried both flavors and agreed that the Tropical Wave was our favorite. Before I popped the first drop into my mouth, I was expecting more of a hard candy than a cough drop, but do have to admit that both flavors had a definite "cough-dropey" kind of medicine-like flavor. They felt very smooth in my mouth and had a very cooling sensation.

I think these would be great when I'm in need of a drop to get rid of one of those little "tickles" and might even be great if I had a tickly cough.

Halls Refresh come in resealable bags of 20 or in 9 piece sticks. They are Sugar Free and may be incorporated into the diet of diabetics and others who are monitoring their sugar intake. Only 6 calories and 3 grams of carbohydrates per drop - 0 grams of sugar per drop.

* HALLS® products may be used by adults and children 5 years and over. For
children under 5 years, ask a doctor.

For more information, visit the Halls website at: http://www.gethalls.com/, or follow them on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/Halls.

See what our other Pink Lemonade Contributors have to say about Halls Refresh Drops:

Christine at More Thoughts with Chris

Jenn will not be able to participate in this review due to internet connection issues this week.

Melissa at Multitasking Mama

Sherry at My Loonyverse

As an added bonus, Three lucky readers will receive a Halls Refresh T-shirt and some great samples to try for themselves.

Please note: Your email address MUST either be in your comment or available on your blogger profile or your entry will NOT count!! - Giveaways are open to those with a US shipping address ONLY.

Go visit the Halls Refresh website and see for yourself how great they are. Then come back and leave us a comment here at Pink Lemonade - Tell us which one you think would be your favorite flavor.

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Place our widget on your blog (it's toward the bottom of this page in the far right column - just click "get widget" at the bottom of the widget). Leave me a comment with your site url.

Members of Club Pink Lemonade get an extra entry! Just leave a comment with your member name. Not a member? It's super simple to join! (Your membership must be approved before the contest deadline - finalized memberships will be approved in less than 24 hours)

There you have it! Seven very simple ways to enter our contest - how easy is that? Complete rules can be found on our Contest page.

This contest ends Thursday, November 5th at 11:59pm (pdst) so don't wait - make sure you've gotten all seven entries! Please note: entries received after the cutoff time will be deleted prior to drawing a winner.

- Liz

Posted by Liz of Pink Lemonade

Mommy, It's Cold Outside!

2009-10-30T04:48:00.000-07:00

The weather is cooling off (we had snow this week in Utah) and the days are getting shorter, this means less outdoor play and more time for the kids inside. With your kids constantly underfoot, it can be tempting to just turn on the TV or pop in a video game…and while a little of this is good (and heck, I know there are times when I REALLY need them to watch a movie so I can get a few things done around the house) too much TV is not healthy for our kids.

How can we keep them occupied when the weather is cold? Here are a few ideas that work for me:

- Turn up the music and have a dance party! Choose songs that are appealing to both kids and parents and get your groove on. My kids think this is great and just think, you will even burn a few calories (which is good, because you just might need to burn some after my next suggestion).

- Get the kids in the kitchen! I know, this means a mess for you to clean up, but kids really love to get involved in the kitchen. Whether you work on a special baking project together, or just let them help you make dinner, kids love being in the kitchen. Younger kids can help stir batters or get ingredients from a pantry or fridge (be careful which ingredients though, you probably want to give older kids the responsibility for anything in a glass jar or the eggs!). Older children can slice soft ingredients with a butter knife, add measured ingredients to a mix (start working on those fractions, and let them help measure too), scoop dough for cookies and much more!

- Have a good family library available (or regularly frequent your local library). Having books on hand for children to read when they come to you with the complaint, “I’m bored,” is definitely helpful. Keep it stocked with books about characters they love, or other family favorites. If the books interest your child, they are more likely to read them. (Sure, Littlest Pet Shop or Spider Man may not be the most educational of topics, but I have found by experience that finding something they love to read is more important to developing a life long love of reading than the quality of the books they read.)

- Stop what you are doing and take the time to play too. This is one of the biggest challenges for me. With five kids you should see the mess in my home, add to that the dishes, laundry and general upkeep, I can’t seem to find time to get all of that done, let alone sit and play with blocks or puzzles for an hour. But really, sometimes all it takes to get them playing is someone to get them started. Get out some puzzles and work on them together, read a story or two, build a giant tower out of blocks, I doesn’t take long, and more often than not your children will continue the activity alone after you have returned to your chores.

What indoor fun have you found that helps beat the cold weather blues?

- Christine

Posted by Christine of Random Thoughts With Chris

Featured weekly on Pink Lemonade Online Magazine

Disney’s Newest Royalty, Princess Tiana Arrives in Disneyland Friday, Nov. 6

2009-10-29T11:16:00.000-07:00

‘Tiana’s Showboat Jubilee!’ Performs at Disneyland
and Walt Disney World Resorts through

Jan. 3, 2010

Starting Friday, Nov. 6, Disneyland guests will be treated to appearances by Princess Tiana, star of the upcoming Walt Disney Pictures animated feature film “The Princess and the Frog.”

Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen and other characters from the motion picture will star in “Tiana’s Showboat Jubilee!,” a rousing, colorful procession with a jazz-filled Mardi Gras theme. The good times will roll as festively dressed, bead-tossing revelers lead Disneyland guests to the Mark Twain Riverboat dock. The party moves onboard as the Mark Twain paddlewheels its way along the river to singing, dancing and all that jazz.

Songs composed by Randy Newman for the film energize the show, which will be performed four times daily in New Orleans Square. Daytime pyrotechnics, colorful streamers and whimsical puppetry round out the 15-minute spirited production.

The experience will dazzle guests at Disneyland through Jan. 3, 2010. “Tiana’s Showboat Jubilee!” is also performing in Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World Resort, Florida, through Jan. 3, 2010.

Guests also will be able to greet Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen at designated times at the Court of Angels in New Orleans Square, Disneyland.

A hilarious movie adventure through the mystical bayous of Louisiana, “The Princess and the Frog” will open in limited release in New York and Los Angeles on Nov. 25, 2009, before expanding nationwide on Dec. 11, 2009.

Beginning Nov. 6, little princesses can enjoy a new Princess Tiana makeover in Disneyland at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Fantasyland. Fairy Godmothers sprinkle their pixie dust on aspiring princesses with three makeover packages including a combination of hair, nails and makeup. The royal transformation becomes complete with a package that includes the Princess Tiana costume, shoes, crown and more. Children must be at least three years or older to receive the regal treatments.

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique in Fantasyland is open 10 a.m.-7 p.m. daily; theme park admission is required. Reservations may be made by calling 714/781-STYLE or 714/781-7895.

When guests age 10 or older enter a Disneyland theme park or Walt Disney World theme park from Oct. 5 through Nov. 22 and present their valid theme park ticket at select merchandise locations, they will receive a special card with details on how to get an admission voucher good for up to $8 toward the purchase of one child’s movie ticket when they purchase an adult movie ticket to see “The Princess and the Frog.” This offer is good at participating theaters from Dec. 11 through Dec. 31, 2009, or until “The Princess and the Frog” is no longer in theaters, whichever comes first.

Card quantities for this promotion are limited. Limit one card per adult ticket or annual pass. Admission voucher toward the purchase of a child’s movie ticket to “The Princess and the Frog” is valid for use from Dec. 11 through Dec. 31, 2009, at participating theaters in the fifty United States and District of Columbia. Guests must activate the code printed on the card by registering at www.activaterewards.com/frog to obtain an admission voucher. Only persons 18 or older may activate the code. Parent or legal guardian must activate certificate held by persons ages 10-17. Card, code and admission voucher may not be sold, traded, copied or replaced, or redeemed for cash. Admission voucher may not be transferred. The promotion is not valid for complimentary cast member theme park tickets. Offersubject to restrictions and change without notice. Visit www.hollywoodmoviemoney.com for a list of participating theaters and further conditions and details.

6 Halloween Safety Tips You Won't Want To Miss

2009-10-29T09:53:00.000-07:00

Halloween should be all about candy, costumes and fun, but the reality is that the key to a successful holiday is safety. The excitement of Halloween sometimes makes children and adults alike forget to be careful. Simple common sense can do a lot to protect children as they venture out this October 31.

Intelius – a company that empowers consumers and businesses with information to make intelligent decisions about personal safety and security – has come up with some Halloween safety tips that will keep your children out of harm’s way on the spookiest night of the year.

Create safe costumes. Helping your child pick out or create a Halloween costume can be a fun, bonding activity, but it’s also important to keep in mind safety when selecting the perfect get-up. Make sure your child’s costume is made from fire proof materials and that eye holes in their masks are large enough for good peripheral vision. Always be sure your child carries a flashlight, glow stick or has reflective tape on their costume to make them more visible to cars.

Equip your children with important information. Even if you plan to trick-or-treat with your child, secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.

Know your surroundings. Use services like Neighborhood Watch or Intelius’s Property & Neighborhood Report to identify and locate sex offenders when charting your child’s trick-or-treating route.

Don’t go off the beaten track. Be sure to tell your child to stay on neighborhood sidewalks and in well lit areas and avoid cutting through parks, vacant lots, fields and other places that are less populated. If you are another adult are not accompanying him or her, tell them to stop only at familiar houses in your own neighborhood.

Decorate safely. Nothing beats spooky Halloween decorations to give your trick-or-treaters a harmless scare, but be sure to remove anything that could be an obstacle from lawns, steps and porches. It’s a holiday staple, but candlelit jack-o'-lanterns should be kept away from landings and doorsteps where costumes could brush against the flame. Keep indoor jack-o'-lanterns away from curtains and other furnishings that could be ignited.

Inspect candy before doling it out. Instruct your children not to bring home any treats to be examined by you before they indulge. Cooking up a Halloween dinner will make them less likely to gobble up the candy they collect before you have a chance to check it for them.

NESTLÉ CRUNCH Offers Bay Area Residents Candy Swap

2009-10-29T09:08:00.000-07:00

NESTLÉ CRUNCH Offers San Francisco Bay Area Residents Candy Swap, Commissions “Found Art” Artist For Original Candy Creation At TECH MUSEUM OF INNOVATION

WHO: This Halloween, NESTLÉ CRUNCH offers all treats and no tricks by inviting Bay Area families to trade in their least favorite candy in exchange for a NESTLÉ CRUNCH fun-size bar at The Tech Museum of Innovation in San Jose. Renowned “found art” artist Leo Sewell will use the candy donations to produce a one-of-a-kind “candy creation.”

WHAT: Beginning Oct. 30, Bay Area residents can drop off their least favorite Halloween candies and trade for a fun-size NESTLE CRUNCH bar. Using the discarded candies, Sewell will then create a magnificent work of art – a rocket ship sculpture comprised entirely of candy – and showcase the magic of imagination and creativity. Additionally, museum attendees who trade for NESTLE CRUNCH receive a 10 percent discount on admission.

WHEN: Friday, Oct. 30 - Sunday, Nov. 8: Bay Area residents participate in Crunch Candy Swap

Friday, Nov. 8 – Monday, Nov. 11: Artist builds candy structure in Museum Atrium

Thursday, Nov. 12: Candy creation unveiled, on display for press and museum attendees

WHERE: The Tech Museum of Innovation
201 South Market Street
San Jose, CA 95113

WHY: Trick-or-treating is an annual Halloween tradition for families everywhere, but not all treats are equal. NESTLE, with the help of artist Leo Sewell, is finding a creative new use for unpopular candy while providing Bay Area residents the chance to trade up to NESTLE CRUNCH!

The Tech Museum is also offering a 10% discount for donating your treats!

Thanks to the generosity of the folks at the Tech Museum, we have six (6) museum tickets to give away to three lucky readers (2 tickets each winner). This museum is in San Jose, CA so if you are not a Bay Area Resident, or do not have plans to visit in the very near future, please leave the entries for those who can actually use the tickets.

Please note: Your email address MUST either be in your comment or available on your blogger profile or your entry will NOT count!! - Giveaways are open to those with a US shipping address ONLY.

Go visit the Tech Museum website and check out all the great exhibits they have. Then come back and leave us a comment here at Pink Lemonade - Tell us which one you think would be the most fun to see.

Become a follower on Twitter. Leave me a comment to let me know your twitter name (if you are already a follower, leave me a comment with your twitter name).

Become a fan on our Facebook page. Leave me a comment to let me know your Facebook name.

Subscribe to our RSS Feed or sign up to receive Pink Lemonade by Email. Leave me a comment to let me know you. If you are already a subscriber, leave me a comment and let me know.

Blog about our contest on your blog. Leave me a comment with your post url.

Place our widget on your blog (it's toward the bottom of this page in the far right column - just click "get widget" at the bottom of the widget). Leave me a comment with your site url.

Members of Club Pink Lemonade get an extra entry! Just leave a comment with your member name. Not a member? It's super simple to join! (Your membership must be approved before the contest deadline - finalized memberships will be approved in less than 24 hours)

There you have it! Seven very simple ways to enter our contest - how easy is that? Complete rules can be found on our Contest page.

This contest ends Wednesday, November 4th at 11:59pm (pdst) so don't wait - make sure you've gotten all seven entries! Please note: entries received after the cutoff time will be deleted prior to drawing a winner.

- Liz

Posted by Liz of Pink Lemonade

Tips for Protecting Your Kids Teeth this Halloween

2009-10-29T09:03:00.001-07:00

Dr. Margaret Mitchell, DDS, owner of Mitchell Dental Spa a dental spa facility in Chicago’s Water Tower Place, offers the following tips to for protecting your kids teeth at Halloween:

Avoid sticky candy such as taffy, gummy bears, caramel, etc. Sticky Candy adheres to teeth and causes decay.

Kids can eat candy ANYTIME, there is not a good time of day/night to eat candy.

Brush immediately after eating candy, especially sticky candy.

Prior to Halloween, visit your dentist to have sealants put into the child’s teeth grooves.

Have you child chew gum with zylitol sweetener with prevents tooth decay. Orbit and Trident both have zylitol sweetener.

Halloween Photography Tips from the Experts

2009-10-29T08:49:00.000-07:00

Halloween is right around the corner! This year, be sure to capture your little ghost or goblin’s memories in a unique way. An expert in children’s photography, Linda Russell of MugShots Photography (www.mugsyclicks.com), offers 5 tips for parents to take perfect Halloween pictures.

Utilize available light: Turn off your flash and use a tripod or even the back of a chair to stabilize your camera and use a slow shutter speed to photograph your child by jack- o- lantern or candle light.

Light your child from below: For a really "haunting" photo, have them hold a flashlight below their face pointed up. Under-lighting is sinister and very scary.

Tell a story with your camera: Start with a "still life" that says "Halloween" (a costume box, a jack-o-lantern, an empty trick or treat bag, etc) Next photograph your child before the transition from suburban student to blood dripping vampire. Capture the make up, the costume, the process.

Create a portrait of them in costume as if it were real: A princess on her throne, a cowgirl in front of a barn, or a ghoul in the cemetery. Engage your child in the fantasy.

Photograph the haul! Every child remembers the special Halloween when the mountain of candy was beyond belief. Photograph them close up using a wide angle setting. Fill the frame with candy as well as their joyful expression.

Halloween Doesn’t Always Have to be Scary

2009-10-29T08:39:00.001-07:00

Pirate’s Booty Offers Healthy Halloween Tips

On October 31st, millions of parents will dress their eager kids up as Hannah Montana or a Transformer before heading out the door for the annual trick-or-treating ritual. This can be a scary feat for parents who encourage their kids to eat healthy throughout the year. And, while some neighbors will opt for the non-treat, treat such as stickers, a glow stick or a low-fat crunchy snack, most will hand-out the obligatory candy assortment that is packed with calories and fat.

Robert’s American Gourmet Food, LLC, the makers of all-natural snacks including Pirate’s Booty, first developed its products specifically for the family in 1987 – before healthier alternative snacks even hit the marketplace. The motto at Pirate’s Booty is that no matter the age – tot to teen – children need to learn how to eat healthy and balanced to sustain good eating habits for life.

Luckily, Pirate’s Booty’s resident pirate and well-being expert is here to offer some tips for a “Healthy Halloween”:

Fill it up. Feed children a full, nutritious meal before heading out to trick-or-treat. This can prevent them from devouring candy while out on the trail.

Barter a trade. Offer coins or a coveted toy in replace of the candy.

Do your research. Some dentist offices have actually started implementing candy buyback programs the day after Halloween. Kids receive a monetary reward, while the candy gets shipped to different organizations like US troops abroad.

Treat others. Donate sweets to a local food bank.

Portion control. Ration the candy and pack in zip lock bags. Two to three small treats after a meal will fill that sweet tooth.

Help another parent out. Hand out non-candy treats such as a low-fat snack pack.

Pirate’s Booty is a tasty, fun snack that is the perfect fit for the “Help another parent out” tip above. Believe us; sacrificing candy can still taste sweet! Pirate’s Booty comes in a variety of flavors, including Aged White Cheddar, Barbeque, Veggie and Sea Salt & Vinegar and look out for a brand new, kid-friendly flavor – Pirate’s Booty New York Pizza!

Pirate’s Booty is trans-fat, gluten and tree nut free, so it’s perfect for the kiddies. Plus, Pirate’s Booty only has up to 130 calories per serving.

Other great-tasting snacks include Smart Puffs, all-natural baked corn puffs made with real Wisconsin cheddar and Original Tings, all-natural vegan crunchy corn sticks. Kids love the flavors and parents won’t have to be haunted by the idea of feeding their kids sugary snacks. These Halloween treasures are fun and the product characters may even inspire future costume ideas!

We hope you’ll be inspired to live a little healthier and have fun while doing it! Let’s weigh anchor and hoist the mizzen!

Robert’s American Gourmet Food, LLC
Robert’s American Gourmet Food, LLC, an all-natural snack food industry leader and manufacturer of Pirate Brands, is located in Sea Cliff, NY and has been creating tasty treasures since 1987. The company was founded on the belief that you shouldn’t have to “snackrifice” taste and fun for wellbeing. Pirate Brands products are deliciously baked, all-natural snacks and include Pirate’s Booty, Smart Puffs and Original Tings. Pirate Brands snacks are free from fryers, trans fats and ingredients you can’t pronounce, arrrrrr. Products are sold in the US and Canada. For more information visit: http://www.piratesbooty.com/.

Last Minute- Halloween Hair for Kids

2009-10-29T08:27:00.001-07:00

This Halloween, take the best styling tips for hairstyles to accompany your child’s costume, from Cozy Friedman- founder of the chic New York based salons, Cozy’s Cuts for Kids, designed exclusively for children. Here, Cozy shares her tips for how to achieve the perfect styles for five of this year’s most popular costumes.

Superman:
- Make hair VERY wet & use LOTS of gel
- Slick back hair with comb
- Pull small piece of hair forward & wrap it once around your finger and then press to set on forehead!

Harry Potter
- Use a fine tooth comb to make a side part
- Let dry naturally and use Styling Cream to help hold hair with a natural look
- Lightly tousle w/fingers to encourage a natural wave

Hannah Montana
- When hair is wet, spray in leave-in conditioner (this will help keep hair straight & will protect hair from heat damage
- Using a paddle or vent brush, blow-dry hair straight. If needed, use flat iron to make hair really straight.
- Use a dime size amount of styling cream to keep hair smooth & prevent fly-aways
- If you’d like, you can add a few crimps sporadically dispersed around the head by wetting & braiding a very small section. When dry, remove braid, and you’re done!

Princess Tiana:
- Put hair in pony tail & then twist hair around in a circular motion
- To secure, you can use bobby pins or take another elastic & put right over the bun
- For a softer look like the one shown, pull out a few strands of hair before securing bun. -Use a curling iron with a 1” barrel to curl strands. Use a tiny bit of gel prior to curling iron to help secure curls
- Pull out one very small hair strands right above ea ear to create tendrils.. Curl both strands as directed previously
- Use a small amount of gel to help hold hair back & prevent flyaways

Dorothy:
- Split hair down the center from front to back
- Dampen hair for ease in braiding
- Begin making a braid approx 1” behind the ear
- Use styling gel on thick hair to help secure & get rid of flyaways, or styling cream for finer hair

Sustainable Relationships

2009-10-29T06:59:00.000-07:00

If you have had a few relationships you know what I mean by “sustainability,” especially ones that have been a source of pain or suffering to some degree. (Some of which have compelled you to dispose of them by almost any means, organic or not.) But what of the ones you wish to keep, nurture and grow rather than watch die prematurely or unexpectedly? Given all the energy most of us spend putting ourselves “out there” on the emotional limb (oftentimes left with nothing more than a “seed,” or perhaps less some seed, as the case may be), let’s wise up and turn those seeds into wisdom. Let’s instead get on with how to make our lives fertile so that we can more optimally attract and create more healthy, fulfilling, sustainable relationships. Ones that have the greatest potential for an amazing harvest, for season after season to come.

Relationships can be complicated, given the myriad of unique nuances that make up any one individual, the layers of experiences that create the filters we each see reality through. The real enigma seems to be a matter of skill and planning—how to create a optimal climate for potential for growth within this human complexity. Just like plants, relationships grow and flourish under optimal circumstances and care as well.

Okay, enough with the plant metaphor. You get it (hopefully). The deal is that if we come to relationship broken up, with some serious unexamined baggage, expecting to attract great relationships, odds are the next one will end up much the same—in disappointment and regret. At some point, as I have said many times, you gotta be thinking, “Hey, maybe it’s not just them.” Friends and lovers alike, we need to bring our “A” game to the party and expect nothing less from our prospective playmates and potential soulmates as well.

Here are some pointers for how to sustain any great relationship (platonic or otherwise), once you have carefully selected who you want to be in it with:

Respect Here’s a word. Know what it means? If you don’t, you have no chance at REAL, lasting intimacy (in my not-so-humble opinion). If you respect yourself, just double it. Don’t just talk about it either—this is an action item. Respect is not a feeling, it’s a way of behaving!

Responsible communication You get to choose from every word in the English language (or whatever language you share) in whatever tone you choose to communicate your thoughts and feelings to another, so choose carefully. You have no one to blame if you don’t tell the truth or say what you want. My teacher says “We are always doing one of two things; creating separation or connection.” What is your intention?

Integrity Do what you say you’re going to do, when you say you’re going to do it, as often as humanly possible. And don’t BS yourself. Nobody trusts a flake, nor does anyone want their vulnerable hearts to be in the care of one. If you love and respect someone, ACT like it!

Compatibility If you are mad about the outdoors, can’t live without reality TV, are a screaming (or worse, Nuevo) liberal, or abhor people who over-accessorize or don’t keep up on current events, then you probably wouldn’t want to hang out with…me, for example. Just because someone has good energy doesn’t mean you do real life well together. Watch what people DO, not only what they say. Make sure they match or you’ll be sadly disappointed, eventually bored and even resentful. There are 7 billion people on the planet—check some more of them out and quit trying to make someone they are not!

Compassion Walked a mile in their shoes, have you? I recommend before you think you know whatever you think you know about the person you say you love, one of the most loving acts of all is to try and understand as much as you want to be understood. Old adage for a reason. ‘Cause it’s a damn good one!

Expectations The fastest way to get back to love in any relationship is to want nothing. Period. Try it. No one is responsible for your happiness or anything else, unless expressly agreed to.

Consciousness agreements One of my all-time favorites. Let people know what’s important to you up front. As soon as possible, in fact. In any relationship the time to negotiate is up front, not after you are in deep! Don’t want to party a lot, but notice you keep giving in and feeling bad about yourself—but afraid to lose your friends if you stand up for yourself? Don’t want to have sex so much, but because you’re afraid they will leave, you do it anyway (see compatibility)? Two of my “needs” (if you can call them that) in a friendship is that a) we don’t make unilateral decisions about ending the friendship, and b) if we have a problem we bring it to the other person as soon as possible. What are your non-negotiables?

These tools and skills have helped me immeasurably over the years and I rely on them all today, as they are responsible for helping me maintain the loving, healthy relationships I have today! Remember, relationships take work, they are not just “add water,” and people are not disposable. They are precious blessings, and in their presence I feel blessed to keep on my path to becoming the best version of myself, as well as have the privilege to witness l those I love do the same!

- Maryanne

by Maryanne Comaroto of Maryanne Live

Featured Weekly on Pink Lemonade Online Magazine

Do You Have a Sugar Addiction?

2009-10-28T07:51:00.000-07:00

Welcome to another installment for Weight Loss Wednesdays. I was watching Dr. Oz the other day and his guest was a woman with a major sugar addiction. Through the foods she consumed, she was ingesting about 84 tablespoons of sugar daily. Can you believe it? With Halloween and other holidays on the horizon, I want to be sure to control my own sugar intake.

How about you? What are your eating habits when it comes to sugar? Do you read labels? Do you realize how much sugar is actually in items that we don't consider "sweet"? Take pasta sauce for example; one serving can have 11 grams of sugar or more. Even the breads we eat often contain sugar. I just checked a bag of sandwich rolls and they contain 7 grams each. So, while we may feel that a few cookies or ice cream is not that bad, we need to consider our sugar intake for the entire day before we splurge on dessert.

Many of us tend to have a sweet tooth in the late afternoon or after dinner. Try to track the amount of sugar that your are eating the rest of the day so that a small treat is not putting you over the edge. While there is no RDA (recommended daily allowance) for sugar, the Department of Agriculture does recommend that sugar intake not exceed 8% of our daily diet. For an average woman, that is approximately 40 grams.

It can be cumbersome to spend your entire day reading labels; and if you get food on the run, there is often no label for reference. Keep the following tips in mind to help reduce your overall sugar intake:

Skip the soda!

This is a sugar bomb! Drink water with a little lemon or lime for flavor.

Eat healthy foods first.

Load up on the healthy stuff containing fiber and complex carbohydrates. Nuts and proteins are a great option. You'll feel full and satisfied and have fewer cravings.

Try a low-sugar sweet like dark chocolate.
A good dark chocolate does not have sugar as the first ingredient. It also contains healthy antioxidants. Remember that a small piece goes a long way. Savor each bite.

I hope this article has helped you to consider your daily sugar intake. Take some steps to modify your diet. Let us know what other ideas you have to help reduce sugar in your diet and combat cravings.

Until next week, have a safe, happy and healthy week ahead.

-Coach Jenn

Posted by Jenn of Team Beachbody and PersonalFitCoach.com

Featured weekly on Pink Lemonade Online Magazine

6 Ways to Make Your Entry More Functional

2009-10-27T03:48:00.001-07:00

Our family is looking at downsizing and one thing I noticed as we peruse smaller homes is the lack of a defined entry way. I immediately think of the ways that an organized entrance keeps me from going crazy on my way out the door, so I wanted to share some tips with you that I will be
implementing in our smaller home.

Have an “in” box or basket near the entry way. This is great for when the kids come in with permission slips, birthday invites or you just need a spot to drop the mail until you have time to sort it.

You need a place to hang your hat (or coat, purse, whatever). This can be a coat tree, strong yet decorative hooks or if you are lucky, a closet =)

I currently use and will continue to use a bench in our entry way to sit down, remove shoes. I have a basket that sits beside the bench (in a smaller home, it may need to sit on the bench) where I place my keys and purse. That way I always know where they are and they are ready to grab on my way out the door.

If your home has room, use some type of entry table. Having a surface to place items on makes it less likely they will get misplaced. Just avoid the temptation for this to become a clutter stop.

Have a place for the kids items (sporting gear, backpacks, gloves) near the entryway to reduce time looking for the missing fill-in-the-blank item when you are already running late.

What are some ways you keep your entryway organized? Feel free to share in the comments!

Happy Organizing!

Melissa

Posted by Melissa of Multitasking Mama

Featured Weekly on Pink Lemonade Online Magazine

Spirit Halloween Winner

2009-10-26T08:47:00.000-07:00

We have a winner in our Spirit Halloween costume giveaway!

#96 :

Swtlilchick

Congratulations, you will be getting a confirmation email shortly!

Another giveaway will be posting soon!

- Liz

Pumpkin Pancakes

2009-10-26T04:43:00.000-07:00

One thing we like to make for Halloween is Pumpkin Pancakes.

You can use your favorite pancake recipe, ours is pretty basic then just add canned pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice.

Since it is a little thick we use the back of a spoon or small ladle to make into pumpkin shapes.

The kids love when you decorate them- we have used chocolate chips to make a jack-o-lantern face before flipping or when slightly cooled used spray real whipped cream to make ghosts. Use your imagination.

Pumpkin Pancakes

2 cups baking mix, such as Bisquick
2 large eggs
1-1/4 cups milk
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
2 Tbsp. sugar
1 teaspoon (can use more if desired) pumpkin pie spice.

Combine ingredients until blended but don't overmix.

Let batter stand 10 minutes.

Preheat griddle (or frying pan if making on stove) to 350 degrees.

Ladle pancakes onto griddle (about 1/4 cupful) make pumpkin or other shapes if desired.

Cook until edges start to set and middle bubbles.

Flip and cook a minute or two until golden brown.

Serve with butter & syrup or your favorite toppings.

Enjoy.

Find more easy Halloween treats here.

What do you do to make Halloween special at your house?

Sherry

Posted by Sherry of Loon-atics In The Kitchen

Featured Weekly on Pink Lemonade Online Magazine

Give The Gift of Reading with The New Deluxe Set From “Your Baby Can Read! ®”

2009-10-26T04:16:00.000-07:00

Learn What the Experts Already Know: Teaching Reading When Children Are Most Receptive Enriches Them In School And Life For Years To Come

Guiding infants through early literacy skills is a natural, stimulating activity that strengthens the parent-child bond and encourages a life-long love of reading. Now parents can develop this exciting time in a child’s life to the fullest with the Deluxe Edition of the “Your Baby Can Read!” Program, offering a multi-sensory approach to early reading skills with a complete set of interrelated books, cards, activities and music, all of which work together to open up a new world of communication for even the youngest children.

The remarkable “Your Baby Can Read!” infant literacy program has been used by hundreds of thousands of babies around the world and changed the way many people view the needs and abilities of even the youngest children. This scientifically-based program builds on the fundamental principle that reading is a natural extension of a young child’s acquisition of spoken language, and that waiting until the age of five or six to learn to read misses a key developmental window in a baby’s life. The complex language-learning process happens at a specific time in a baby’s brain development, when even the youngest baby can easily absorb the visual aspects of language. Introducing basic reading at this critical time makes the whole process easier, more exciting and more interesting for the child. The amazing success of the “Your Baby Can Read!” program has literacy experts and early childhood educators worldwide changing the way they think about reading in young children.

There could be no better gift than the gift of reading, and the lifelong advantages that come with being confident and comfortable with those skills from an early age. The “Your Baby Can Read!” Deluxe Edition offers a comprehensive system of easy-to-use, interactive DVD’s, double-sided interactive sliding word and picture cards, lift-the-flap books, a helpful parents’ guide, a music CD and more. This multi-sensory approach, aimed at children from birth to 5 years, allows parents to get the most out of the “Your Baby Can Read!” program.

Used together or individually, each component of the Deluxe Edition offers a fresh and enjoyable activity. Children using the program eagerly learn new words and begin to associate reading with the warmth and excitement of playing with a loving parent or caregiver. Babies and toddlers also find comfort and stimulation in seeing child-friendly, colorful photographs and words that draw from familiar objects around the home—a hallmark of the “Your Baby Can Read!” program.

“Your Baby Can Read!” was developed by Dr. Robert Titzer, a prominent professor and infant researcher, after noticing the positive impact of early reading in his own infant children. A professor and teacher for over 15 years, Dr. Titzer has extensively researched early childhood learning and development, and his findings have been published in such prestigious journals as Psychological Review. His efforts to promote reading from birth to toddler years, at the same time children are learning the spoken word, has captured the interest of educators, researchers, parents, government agencies and the media worldwide.

For more information on “Your Baby Can Read!” please call 888-READ-888 or go to http://www.yourbabycan.com/.

“YOUR BABY CAN READ!” DELUXE EDITION AT A GLANCE

Designed using Dr. Robert Titzer’s proven multi-sensory approach.

Brings the full range of the program to parents in one cohesive set.

Includes DVDs, sliding word cards, word games, picture cards, parent guide and fun lift-the-flap books.

Comes with three free gifts: a sliding window book, a workshop DVD and music CD.

Gives parents a clearly outlined program for helping infants and children develop the capacity to read, naturally, as they learn the spoken word.

The whole program available in one Deluxe Set for $199.95.

We have one (1) "Your Baby Can Read" program to give away to one lucky reader!

There are several ways to enter - here are the rules:

Please note: Your email address MUST either be in your comment or available on your blogger profile or your entry will NOT count!! - Giveaways are open to those with a US shipping address ONLY.

Visit Your Baby Can Read and then come back and leave us a comment here at Pink Lemonade - let us know why you think this is a product you would like to try .

Become a follower on Twitter. Leave me a comment to let me know your twitter name (if you are already a follower, leave me a comment with your twitter name).

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Subscribe to our RSS Feed or sign up to receive Pink Lemonade by Email. Leave me a comment to let me know you. If you are already a subscriber, leave me a comment and let me know.

Blog about our contest on your blog. Leave me a comment with your post url.

Place our widget on your blog (it's toward the bottom of this page in the far right column - just click "get widget" at the bottom of the widget). Leave me a comment with your site url.

Members of Club Pink Lemonade get an extra entry! Just leave a comment with your member name. Not a member? It's super simple to join! (Your membership must be approved before the contest deadline - finalized memberships will be approved in less than 24 hours)

There you have it! Seven very simple ways to enter our contest - how easy is that? Complete rules can be found on our Contest page.

This contest ends Sunday, November 1st at 11:59pm (pdst) so don't wait - make sure you've gotten all seven entries! Please note: entries received after the cutoff time will be deleted prior to drawing a winner.

- Liz

Posted by Liz of Pink Lemonade