I can barely keep my eyes open after all of the wonderment of yesterday and today.

After a day running through the parks, all I want to do is get under the covers and snuggle with my littlest – which is what I’m going to do in about 5 minutes.

Before I do that, however, I thought I should say two things.

(1) Mickey Mouse makes an excellent host. Disneyland is as magical as ever.

(2) I am SO happy because we actually managed to take our camera with us and get a few fun family shots this afternoon (sweet success).

Stay tuned for detailed posts about Disneyland (with tips on what to see, what to do, and how to navigate the parks with little ones).

Tomorrow morning…

Wait.

Scratch that.

THIS morning (I have.to.go.to.sleep), we are heading out to Disneyland.

I could write that we’re leaving the mundane and heading for the magical (because that sounds really poetic).

But that would be a falsehood.

Because the truth is that every day is magical in my life:

P.S. I’m going to extend my Christmas Gift Guide into next week because I still have some wonderful gift ideas to share with you. Stay tuned for more product spotlights, more giveaways, and more musings.

I still remember the first time I caught a fish. I think I cried…and not from joy.

I was about 10 years old and it broke my heart to watch that shiny silver fish flop around with a jagged hook lodged in his throat.

My husband Tim, on the other hand, experienced no such remorse. He was out fishing, hunting, shooting, and sleeping under the stars from toddlerhood.

It should come as no surprise then when I say that he could spend hours in Bass Pro Shops. HOURS. Actually, I’m pretty fond of the store too. It’s kind of like Disneyland for the outdoorsman (or woman). The displays are fun for the whole family and there are products for almost every hobby. Boating. Camping. RVing. Hunting. Archery. Golf. Hiking. And every kind of Fishing.

If you have a fisherman on your Christmas list this year, you pretty much can’t go wrong with the White River Fly Shop Technical Tri-Chest Vest ($49.99). It’s versatile, comfortable, and full of pockets that are strategically placed for maximum functionality. If you’re in a warmer climate, you’ll especially appreciate the mesh interior. It’s breathable and ventilated – perfect for days when you want to fish, but don’t want to add any extra heat.

Or, you could always go with a White River Fly Shop Ultralight Classic Rod and Reel Outfit ($199.99). That’s a surefire gift that will enthuse any fisherman – whether amateur or experienced. The rod IS super lightweight and the wood finish makes it a classy, good-looking piece for any fisherman to add to his collection. A reviewer on the BPS website stated that, “it’s the best small stream rod” he’s ever owned.

If you think he’ll have more fun selecting his own gift, a gift card to Bass Pro is always a good pick. You can opt to send one via traditional mail (it takes 3-6 days to be delivered; shipping is FREE) or you can have it sent via e-mail and it will arrive almost instantly. Your choice.

While you’re shopping, why not make it super special for kids by going on a Saturday or Sunday between noon and 5pm? Now through December 2oth, there are FREE crafts (and other activities) offered in-store.  This weekend (Nov 20-21), your child can make a Reindeer Cone Ornament. After that, check the schedule to see what crafts interest you most: Santa Bobber, Reindeer Hat, Reindeer Candy Cane, and Cookie Decorating (my favorite!).

WIN IT! One winner will receive a White River Fly Shop Technical Tri Chest Pack ($49.99) by Bass Pro Shops. To enter, leave any topic-related comment on this post prior to Friday, November 27th at 11:59 p.m. (Don’t forget to follow the rules…all generic comments like “Enter me!,” “Love it,” and “Cool stuff!” will be disqualified.).

FOR A SECOND ENTRY: Blog or Tweet about my Christmas Gift Guide (or about this giveaway)…and leave a second comment telling me that you did.

* I received product samples for review purposes.

My husband Tim is a bit of an anomaly because he is both a techie and trekkie. By the latter, I do NOT mean that he is one of those Star Trek devotees who dresses in costume and attends the premiere of every new movie (actually, if he ever does that, I’m pretty sure there will be some kind of invasion of the bodysnatchers thing going on…).

What I mean is that he is both extremely good with computers AND extremely athletic (i.e. he likes to go on treks). He can design websites and recover data and he understands all kinds of things that are abbreviated (CSS, DOCSIS, GB, etc.). That said, he’s not really your typical computer guy because he is constantly moving. Actually, right at this second, he is standing at the counter typing on his laptop. STANDING. Not sitting comfortably on the couch like a normal person (like…ahem…me). Nope. He likes to run, bike, hike, camp, backpack, etc.

It seems that most guys fall into one (or both) of those categories. As such, I’ve compiled two gift ideas for tech types and two gift ideas for outdoorsmen. Take your pick…

SURFboard SB6120 Cable Modem by Motorola (~$100)

If he uses the Net regularly for work or play, he’s bound to appreciate an ultra-fast high-speed connection.

Enter the SURFboard SB6120.

Dependable and speedy, the modem is up to four times faster than current generation cable modems. As such, this black box is especially ideal for gamers, designers, and coders – or anyone who leads a digital life.

My husband says it’s VERY important to point out that this modem is DOCSIS 3.0 Certified. Apparently, that means that it offers the leading edge in cable technology. It pretty much guarantees that you’ll be able to access the fastest internet connection that your cable provider is capable of. Pretty sweet, right? For him…and for you.

Harmony 700 Advanced Universal Remote by Logitech ($149.99)

Say sayonara to electronic clutter once and for all with a universal remote. You’ll never have to ask, “Where is the DVD/BluRay/TV/VCR/XBOX remote?” again. With one sleek, ergonomic, and colorful remote, he’ll be able to control up to six devices. Talk about high-efficiency! It’s an intelligent device that streamlines and simplifies digital clutter.

Plus, the remote holds its charge for up to a week and is fully rechargeable. On top of that, it comes with a 1-year hardware warranty.

Sunshade M by Kelty ($149.95)

This gift is a sneaky (and sensational) gift for your guy. Sneaky because he will absolutely love it if he is a coach, if he participates in organized sports, or if he enjoys camping/hiking…but the clincher is that YOU will also love it. It will, after all, be perfect for family vacations, picnics, and outdoor adventures.

Ultra-lightweight and easy to assemble, this sunshade spans a large area and easily provides shade for 10+ people.

ContourHD Helmet Camcorder by VholdR (~$280.00; GIVEAWAY)

Skateboarders, skiers, mountain/dirt bikers, and other people who have a “need for speed” will think you are the coolest gift-giver ever when you present this tiny wearable camera. Designed to be mounted to a helmet, the ContourHD may be small, but that doesn’t mean that it’s breakable. On the contrary, it’s sturdy and tough – made to withstand bumps, jolts, dives, and dips. Because it’s made for use during action, it’s super simple to use and only requires on quick press of a button. Best of all, the camcorder records in high-definition. Athletes will marvel at their own stunts…and the stunts of their friends.

WIN IT! One winner will receive a ContourHD Helmet Camcorder (~$280.00) by VholdR. To enter, leave any topic-related comment on this post prior to Friday, November 27th at 11:59 p.m. (Don’t forget to follow the rules…all generic comments like “Enter me!,” “Love it,” and “Cool stuff!” will be disqualified.).

FOR A SECOND ENTRY: Blog or Tweet about my Christmas Gift Guide (or about this giveaway)…and leave a second comment telling me that you did.

* I received product samples for review purposes.

Sometimes it’s easy to forget that home improvement stores offer more than just paint, wood, and ceiling fans. They really are home, garden, and lifestyle super stores – and the products beyond those double doors are absolutely perfect for gift-giving.

For the men in your life, yes. But also for the whole family.

FOR HIM: How about a Weber Original Barbecue Apron ($9.99) + matching Barbecue Mitt ($6.99)? This rich, espresso-colored apron and mitt is constructed of a sturdy, stain-resistant canvas that is both attractive and practical. Exclusively designed for Lowe’s, this set is sure to be a good pick for any barbecue master.






FOR HER: The gardener and backyard maintainer in the family will appreciate receiving a brand new pair of razor sharp shears like the Fiskars’ 10″ Bypass Powerlever Hedge Shears ($21.98). Sturdy, sharp, and comfortable to hold, these over-sized scissors will help her prune bushes and trees with ease. I’d have a picture of me using the shears, but my husband tends to do most of the “shearing” around here. Who is the landscaper in your family?

FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY: For athletic and outdoorsy families, consider the 12′ X 12′ Midnight Blue Canopy Quik Shade ($225.71). The shade is lightweight, easy to assemble, and provides ample shade for sporting events, backyard picnics, and other outdoor festivities. For entrepreneurs, it also doubles as a great booth at community fairs and business expos.

FOR THE CHILD: Give the gift of time/interaction and take your child to a Build and Grow Clinic at your neighborhood Lowe’s (FREE!). The monthly clinics are designed to teach skills and nurture parent/child relationships. On November 21st, you and your child(ren) can build a wooden snowman that doubles as a gift card holder. Is your schedule already booked for this weekend? No worries. Sign up to build a festive gingerbread house on December 5th. Both workshops are held on Saturday mornings at 10am and run for one hour. Be sure to reserve your spot online or by calling your local store.

WIN IT! One winner will receive a $100 Lowe’s gift card. To enter, leave any topic-related comment on this post prior to Friday, November 27th at 11:59 p.m. (Don’t forget to follow the rules…all generic comments like “Enter me!,” “Love it,” and “Cool stuff!” will be disqualified.).

FOR A SECOND ENTRY: Blog or Tweet about my Christmas Gift Guide (or about this giveaway)…and leave a second comment telling me that you did.

* I received product samples for review purposes.

“Thank you, God, for this good life and forgive us if we do not love it enough.”  – Garrison Keillor

Welcome to “Tuesday Tours: What’s Happening on the Web” where I serve as your tour guide and showcase the best contests, freebies, deals, and reads for moms on the web…all in one convenient location.

Enter to win a $50 Target gift card at Busy Mom Reviews before Nov. 21.

Traveling Mom is giving away a fun travel package that includes luggage, a fashion wrap, a sinus mask, and more. Deadline: Nov. 24.

Marissa {Mama Sparkles} is giving away a $75 gift card to Beau-Coup (think: elegant party favors and gifts). Deadline: Nov. 24.

Got a baby and tennis shoes? Enter to win a Jeep Overland Jogging Stroller and you’ll be well on your way to getting fit. Deadline: Dec. 1.

I’m getting sleepy, very sleepy. It’s past 2am and I have to crawl under my sheets. Tomorrow, however, I’ll enter to win the Sleep Number p5 Bed that is up for grabs at Lizzy Dear’s Life. Deadline: Dec. 15.

Submit your family’s most memorable holiday moment for your chance to win a $5,000 vacation (and $5,000 to your local food bank). Five $100 gift cards will also be awarded to runner-ups. Enter before Dec. 24.

Announcements

Intuit invites you to nominate a small business (or your own small business) for a Love a Local Business grant. Eight $1,000 and two $5,000 grants will be awarded. The deadline is Dec. 31.

Good Reads

Rachel {No. 17 Cherry Tree Lane} is grateful for Tradition.

Kelby Carr shares why Mom Bloggers Deserve to Get Paid – and I appreciate her 4 tips to companies.

Pondering what to get your child’s teacher for Christmas? Read Darcie’s Five A+ Teacher Gifts (and Five Flunking Gifts).

Still serving up 1% or 2% milk? You may want to consider switching to whole milk (that’s the only kind we buy in our house). Read: Children who often drink full-fat milk weigh less {Physorg.com, 11-03-09}.

Miscellany

When the cold weather sneaks up on us here in Arizona, I catch my breath in surprise. After the long days of popsicle-licking, flip-flop-wearing, and staying-indoorsing, it is invigorating to feel the chilled wind on my cheeks and to marvel as the crisp air whips through my curls, to suddenly realize that short sleeves are out of season.

When the weather dips below 70 (Don’t laugh! I’m clearly an Arizona girl, through-and-through!), I love the casual comfort of sweatshirts (and sweatpants too).

In case you’re wondering if I’m one of THOSE moms with the ratty lounge pants, no make-up, and a half-hearted ponytail, I’m not (well, sometimes I am, but not when anyone can see me…).

I would like to stand and say, once and for all, that I think sweatsuits have gotten an undeserved bad rap on fashion shows and in fashion magazines. I have seen PLENTY of stylish moms ROCK the sweatsuit look.

I certainly agree that you shouldn’t wear these:

But I think this red velour tracksuit is totally cute (The price is a little hard-to-swallow, however – $186 from Juicy Couture):

And I have a set kind of like this one from Aeropostale:

And then there’s the tried-and-true Hanes zip-up sweater:

Affordably priced at just $16 (or 2 for $24), the Women’s Essential Zip Front Hoodie is super soft, deliciously warm, and totally comfy. Hanes may not be the most sophisticated brand, but it is a dependable kind of brand. I like dependable. And I have a feeling I’ll be wearing this sweatshirt all winter long.

Hanes.com is an excellent place to find picks for everyone on your list because the prices are out-of-this-world and the items are very, very wearable.

If you shop at Hanes.com this winter, don’t skip over the clearance section.

Check out these pieces for pennies…

1. FOR HER: Short-Sleeved Hooded Pullover, $3.99
2. FOR A BOY: Graphic Sweat Shorts, $2.99
3. FOR A GIRL: 100% Cotton Sporty Hipsters, 5-pack, $1.99

Those are my kind of prices. Wouldn’t you agree?

YOUR TURN: What do you think about the sweatsuit? Is it a fashion no-no or a yes-yes in your book?

WIN IT! There will be two winners. Each winner will receive a sweatshirt of choice (mens, womens, or kids) from Hanes.com. To enter, leave any topic-related comment on this post prior to Friday, November 27th at 11:59 p.m. (Don’t forget to follow the rules…all generic comments like “Enter me!,” “Love it,” and “Cool stuff!” will be disqualified.).

FOR A SECOND ENTRY: Blog or Tweet about my Christmas Gift Guide (or about this giveaway)…and leave a second comment telling me that you did.

* I received product samples for review purposes.

I’d rather be in the mountains thinking about God than in church thinking about the mountains. -Ace Kravhl

That quote reminds me of my husband.

He loves being outdoors (as do I). He is comforted by nature – by the rush-rush of the wind, the shhh-shhh of the water, the peaceful cacophony of animals and plants in the great wide open.

When he wants to pray or journal or reflect, he prefers the mountains to pews.

He doesn’t like singing or long sermons or saying religious catch phrases.

He gets restless indoors, surrounded by flickering lights and blank walls and the humming of office machines. He’d much rather be digging a ditch, building a house, scaling a mountain, or backpacking through the wilderness.

Sometimes, he doesn’t even like going to church.

{Oh, did I mention he’s a pastor?}

————————————————————————————————————————

P.S. Did you notice his super cool Flash 65 Pack by REI (LOVE that store, by the way!)? Ultra-lightweight (it weighs in at a scant 2 pounds!) and undeniably durable, the pack is comfortable to carry, yet rugged enough for tough terrain. The pockets are plentiful, yet not pointless. The hip and chest snaps provide extra support. Truly, this is THE pack to get for weekend jaunts in the wilderness.

Priced at $149, the award-winning Flash 65 Pack will put YOU in first place as the best gift giver ever. This versatile pack is sure to be well-loved and well-used by any outdoor enthusiast (The Flash 65 is also available as a women’s pack).

Need something at a more affordable pricepoint? Shop at REI and you won’t be disappointed by the variety.

How about…

the REI Campware Percolator, 12-Cup ($46.50).




Or a Petzl headlamp ($39.95).




Or a Bicycle Bottle Opener ($7.25).




Or even a super cute beanie for the winter ($29.50).




Seriously. When it comes to holiday shopping, REI is where it’s at. For Him. For Her. For the Whole Family.
DISCLAIMER: My husband makes a great pastor in spite of (or, perhaps because of…) his lack of affinity with tired traditions. He is an outstanding listener and he knows what it means to be a friend – in good times or in bad. His genuine compassion for people is deeply rooted in his soul and he’ll be there in a pinch if you need your car towed or your tree cut down or a snake removed from your backyard. You’ll thank him profusely for his hard work, his sweat, and his time (as you should). But the truth is that he revels in those moments – in using his back, his hands, and his heart (literally!) to make a difference. THAT is why he is a pastor.

* I received product samples for review purposes.

What do YOU carry in your wallet?

I prefer to carry just “the basics”: my license, my debit card, my health insurance card, and my grocery membership card. That’s about it.

For the longest time, I carried around a huge wallet that was designed to carry a checkbook (does anybody really carry around a checkbook anymore?). It was bulky beyond reason and, as a mom of two little ones, the LAST thing I need is more to carry.

Fortunately, WalletBe recently sent me one of their Keychain Wallets (on sale for $6.95; see images below) – and it is perfect for my purposes. Lightweight, slim, and super stylish, the two-toned leather wallet is excellent for minimalists. I particularly appreciate the outer ID window.

Available in six eye-catching colors, these keychain wallets are currently on-sale for $6.95 and would make super stocking stuffers for tween/teen girls, new drivers, college students, or moms.

If you’d rather tote around a larger wallet, you might consider WalletBe’s Croco Double-Wide Accordion ($29.75). More like a fashionable clutch than a wallet, the Double-Wide comes in stand-out, seasonal colors like Kelly Green and Purple.

WIN IT! There will be two winners. Each winner will receive a wallet of his/her choice from WalletBe. To enter, leave any topic-related comment on this post prior to Friday, November 27th at 11:59 p.m. (Don’t forget to follow the rules…all generic comments like “Enter me!,” “Love it,” and “Cool stuff!” will be disqualified.).

FOR A SECOND ENTRY: Blog or Tweet about my Christmas Gift Guide (or about this giveaway)…and leave a second comment telling me that you did.