39 Clues Madrigal Maze
Platform - iPhone
Publisher - Scholastic
Rated - E
Unravel the mystery and adventure of The 39 Clues! Do you have what it takes to achieve ultimate power and world domination? To prove your worthiness, successfully navigate a series of 39 mazes concealed in an Aztec pyramid. If you succeed, you become a member of the most secretive and powerful group on the hunt for The 39 Clues—the Madrigals—and unlock a secret Madrigal Encryption Key on www.the39clues.com!
If you read the books, you know about the Madrigals -- the shadowy group that thwarts the Cahills in their search for the clues. But what is it like to actually be a Madrigal? Telling a different side of the 39 Clues story, 39 Clues Madrigal Maze explores the idea of what it would be like to become part of this secret organization. 
39 Clues Madrigal Maze puts you through a recruitment test to become a Madrigal. Locked inside a labyrinthine Aztec pyramid, the player has to survive all kinds of perils in order to get out. Testing your wits, you will have to use strategy as you attempt to successfully navigate a series of passageways as you solve 39 mazes and puzzles inside the pyramid.
Controlling your character in the game is as simple as swiping your finger to run, and tapping the screen to stop. Move your character through the mazes with the touch of your finger, put be prepared to stop in your tracks as you avoid guards, attack dogs, and deadly traps, as part of your recruitment test.
Providing a combination of pulse-pounding action and brain-teasing puzzles, each maze is a little more challenging than the last. One level you may be avoiding guard dogs, next thing you know the next level has you trying to find the right path to avoid setting off the traps that release boulders that will crush you if you don’t move quickly. Some mazes even have time limits on top of all these obstacles. You’ll have to use your smarts, your wits, and move quickly to make it through to the end.
The developers worked closely with the editor’s of the 39 Clues books to work in some secrets in the game. As you play, you will learn about the Madrigals as well as the Cahill family branches. If you make it to a certain level of the game, you'll even unlock a secret Madrigal Encryption Key on www.the39clues.com.
Whether you are a fan of the 39 Clues series, or just a casual gamer looking for a fun/unique game, 39 Clues Madrigal Maze is an excellent puzzle/strategy game that anyone can pick-up-and-play.
Review - 39 Clues Madrigal Maze - iPhone
Scholastic Media Launches Scholastic-Branded iPhone Apps
Scholastic Media has recently launched six Scholastic-branded apps (www.scholastic.com/iphoneapps) for the iPhone and iPod touch. Kids can play a mix of games and solve puzzles based on Scholastic’s popular series: Clifford the Big Red Dog, I SPY, Goosebumps, The 39 Clues™ and WordGirl. Our new apps provide an opportunity for kids to interact with the familiar characters and series through entertaining and educational gameplay.
Apps Include:
Clifford’s Be Big With Words: A great word game for kids who love Clifford and love to learn! Based on the best-selling books and popular TV series from Scholastic, the app encourages early readers to build their skills in spelling, phonics and vocabulary as they spell words and are rewarded with pictures to show the words’ meanings. Ages 4-6; $3.99
The 39 Clues Madrigal Maze: Based on the best-selling multimedia program by Scholastic, this app takes players on a training mission to solve a series of 39 mazes and to become a member of a top secret organization in the hunt for The 39 Clues. Players who accept the challenge and succeed will unlock exclusive access to a secret Madrigal Encryption Key on www.the39clues.com. Ages 8-12; $3.99
WordGirl Word Hunt: Based on the Emmy award-winning television series from Scholastic, the app takes budding superheroes on an action-packed adventure to help WordGirl save the city from villains by using vocabulary words. Players will save the day while learning over 100 word definitions in 40 rounds of crime-fighting action. Ages 4-8; $1.99
I SPY Riddle Race: Inspired by the best-selling Scholastic franchise, I SPY Riddle Race includes 60 interactive puzzles and is ideal for kids who love I SPY and for those who love hidden object games. Ages 4+; $3.99
I SPY Spooky Mansion: Takes players on a hidden object adventure through a scary and mysterious mansion where the only escape is to collect keys by solving classic I SPY riddles and puzzles. Ages 4+; $3.99
Goosebumps PhotoShock: Users can edit their photos into ghastly Goosebumps frights. The app has over 90 horrifyingly fun and creepy icons, objects and frames to customize photos. All ages; $1.99
You can watch video demos of each game here: http://www.scholastic.com/iphoneapps.
All apps are available for either $1.99 or $3.99 from the App Store on iPhone and iPod touch or at http://www.itunes.com/appstore/.
New Product Debuts to Safeguard Children from Medicine Cabinet Dangers
According to a recent report by the CDC, each year in the United States more than 71,000 children age 18 and younger are seen in emergency rooms for unintentional overdoses of prescription and over-the-counter drugs. It also reported that about one out of every 180 two-year-olds visits an emergency department for a medication overdose each year.
Michael Rebando, a Long Island locksmith of two decades, experienced a near-tragic incident in which his four-year-old niece was rushed to the hospital after unknowingly consuming over-the-counter medication accidentally left on the kitchen counter. After conducting his own research, Rebando discovered that in addition to the alarming number of toddler incidents, a reported 2.1 million teens are abusing prescription drugs annually and more than a third of the prescription drugs illegally obtained by teens come from their own homes. 
In an effort to help parents keep their meds safely secured and their children out of harm’s way, Rebando developed an electronic lock-box called MedSafe, which debuted this week. Fitting easily into most existing medicine cabinets and holding up to 15 bottles of prescription medicine, the state-of-the-art lock-box features 19,500 changeable combinations and is the perfect tool in keeping potentially harmful meds out of the hands of children. The MedSafe can be easily affixed to the inside of any medicine cabinet with four self-tapping screws included with each unit, and can also be stored in a dresser drawer, kitchen cabinet or closet shelf.
A portion of each unit sold will support teen prescription drug abuse awareness programs through non-profits such as D.A.R.E. The product is presently available at http://www.helpsaveourkids.com for $49.95, and will soon be available in retail outlets nationwide.
Mikarose Giveaway
One winner will receive a $60 gift certificate to spend at Mikarose and buy the dress of their choice!
Sign the Google Spreadsheet above.
Entry Limit: Daily
Mikarose is a clothing company that specializes in modest, elegant and fashionable dresses. Their company's idea evolved when the owners realized how difficult it was to find modest dresses in today's market. They are sure you have had similar experiences when looking for a modest dress. After many frustrating outings, they formed Mikarose. Their goal is to provide an extensive line of modest dresses, without having to sacrifice style. You will be able to wear theirr line to a broad range of functions: from everyday events to corporate parties. They hope to not only meet the needs of women looking for modest wear, but all those who are seeking elegant dresses.
Ariana $49.99
Available in Deep Brown or Black
Eva $44.99
Available in Deep Brown or Black
Lindsey $36.99
Available in Deep Brown or Black
The giveaway will conclude October 13th.
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Note: The winner will be randomly chosen through Random.org.
Winner must respond within 72 hours of notification.
Review: John Masters Reconstructing Shampoo
I finally had a chance to try out the highly coveted John Masters Reconstructing Shampoo ($25.95). I started using this shampoo about a month ago, and there was not a tinge of disappoint after using this product. I love that it doesn't dry out my hair and that it makes it feel soft after using it. My hair is strong and healthier than ever. My hair is also shinier and thicker than I've ever seen it. This shampoo might be a bit steep in price, but it is well worth if great quality is what you're aiming for. It is an excellent daily shampoo for dry, damaged, color-treated or permed hair.
Linolenic and hyaluronic acids, found in abundance in young hair, are combined with soy, rice & oat proteins to renew and reconstruct damaged hair - fortifying and strengthening with each wash. Honey & hibiscus extracts and 9 other certified-organic extracts and plant oils penetrate the hair with nutrients and provide a great scent. Does not contain sodium lauryl sulfate.
Review: VeggieTales: Minnesota Cuke and the Search for Noah’s Umbrella
A parody of the Indiana Jones film series and sequel to Minnesota Cuke and the Search for Samson’s Hairbrush, this animated adventure teaches young viewers an important lesson about confidence. Will Minnesota have the confidence to face the challenge and keep searching — or will all hopes of finding the ark be washed away for good?!
In this episode, Minnesota Cuke feels constantly ashamed when others laugh at him for doing the right thing, but in his quest to find his friend he learns that his role model—Noah—had similar issues.
Utilizing "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" as the narrative model, the band of Veggies must follow clues given in an instruction manual to wade through the trials on the search for Noah’s famous ark. Join Minnesota Cuke, his friend, Julia, and former enemy, Prof. Rattan, as they set out to find Noah’s ark. Along the way, they encounter a new adversary and must fight for control of a different relic – Noah’s powerful and mysterious umbrella.
The VeggieTales series provides self-affirming and moral lessons that are fun to learn when smoothly integrated into the plot with songs, humor, and talking vegetables. VeggieTales skillfully uses stories from the Bible to provide useful lessons for children. This is a film with a clear message and an entertaining story for kids, and cinematic references for adults to enjoy. 
Review and Giveaway: Eden Fantasys
One winner will receive a $50 Eden Fantasys gift certificate.
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Entry Limit: Once
The spookiest night of the year is around the corner, and Eden Fantasys has an array of costumes to choose from! If you're like me and don't celebrate this tradition, their costumes are still perfect to add a fresh tinge of fun elsewhere in your life.
There's a new sheriff in town, and what a temptress she is! This sheriff has been laying the law down and breaking all the rules with the Sexy Sheriff Costume ($56.99). It is perfect for patrolling for crimes of passion or inciting a riot - your choice! Either way, there will not be another sheriff quite like you! This costume set includes fingerless gloves, a khaki shirt style dress with pleated skirt and sheriff’s badge, black tie and aviator sunglasses.
The giveaway will conclude October 10th.
- Link giveaway on your own blog, Twitter, Facebook, and / or Myspace.
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Note: The winner will be randomly chosen through Random.org.
Winner must respond within 72 hours of notification.
Review and Giveaway: Shelf Reliance
One winner will receive a Cansolidator Pantry ($44.99 value).
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Entry Limit: Once
Shelf Reliance is a company that specializes in food storage, storage rotation, and emergency-preparedness products. Their goal is to help families prepare for whatever tomorrow may bring, so they feel confident if disaster strikes. They believe in educating people so you can become self-reliant.
The Cansolidator Pantry ($44.99) that I received from Shelf Reliance has given me much more space in my pantry. It has definitely made it more organized! The Cansolidator Pantry was tremendously easy to set up. It features a SmarTrac that automatically rotates up to 40 cans. It is adjustable. Therefore, you can set it to hold cans of all one size or various sizes.
The giveaway will conclude October 4th.
- Link giveaway on your own blog, Twitter, Facebook, and / or Myspace.
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Note: The winner will be randomly chosen through Random.org.
Winner must respond within 72 hours of notification.
Back to School Cell Phone Etiquette
Remember when note passing was the communication method of choice for distracted students? Does anyone even know what a “cheat sheet” looks like anymore? Text messaging has not only changed our personal lives, but it’s also found its way into the classroom and has all but replaced older forms of silent communication. As the school year approaches, parents and teachers everywhere are looking for new ways to get kids to text responsibly and hopefully learn a thing or two this year. 
Below are a few back to school texting tips for parents to help their kid’s text responsibly, courtesy of Predicto Mobile, the leading online and text message based survey company:
Check the school’s cell phone policies. Speak with their teachers about what they are doing to limit text use and find ways you can work together to combat the issue if it becomes a serious problem
Talk to your kids about the dangers of sexting. Find out who they are chatting with and look at the cell phone bill to see what time of day they are texting the most
Encourage good academic behavior. Find out when their exams are, offer help with studying, etc.
Make them work for it. If texting during school gets out of control and you see a spike in your bill, ask your child to get a part time job to cover their text message cell phone plan
Don’t text them when they are in class. Occassionally you may need to get in touch with your child during school hours, find out when your child has breaks in between classes or what time they take lunch and use that time to send texts
Petition your cell phone provider to limit cell phone text message service during school hours
“Kids have pioneered text usage and it’s become somewhat invasive in a classroom setting,” says Eyal Yechazkell, CEO of Predicto Mobile. “Many schools have already banned cell phones, and we’ve all heard horror stories about kids sexting in school or using the service as a way to cheat. Parents need to take a tougher stance and talk with their kids about texting in the classroom to make sure it doesn’t interfere with the learning process.”
Review - Guitar Hero 5- Xbox 360
Guitar Hero 5
Platform - Xbox 360
Publisher - Activision
Developer - Neversoft
Rated - T
Release Date -
September 1, 2009
The New Standard in Music Gaming
Guitar Hero 5 sets a new standard for the music game genre. With a large, diverse soundtrack, Jump In/Jump Out Party Play, and the ability for multiple players to play any instrument they choose, Guitar Hero 5 allows gamers to rock their way.
Most gamers are familiar with the Guitar Hero formula. Colored notes fall from the top of the screen, and you must hit the matching colored button on your instrument of choice. Simple yet addictive. Things seem to be a little more smoothed out in Guitar Hero 5, making the gameplay seem to flow a tad smoother.
The soundtrack features 85 songs from 83 artists, from Santana to Nirvana to Johnny Cash to Smashing Pumpkins to Tom Petty. The option to import songs from Guitar Hero World Tour and Smash Hits, and the download content give this game almost an endless setlist of various musical styles. Even the songs I felt I wouldn't enjoy were a blast to play. 
The ability to play any instrument just got better! Want four guitar players, you can do it! Want a band consisting of only drummers, now's your chance! Four singers wanting to see who's the best, pick a song and let all four sing the night away! 
Two of the biggest changes to the game are two of my personal favorites. First, the Jump In/Jump Out Party Play is probably the best idea ever in a music game. While playing, another player can jump in, choose their difficulty, and start playing, all without pausing or distracting the other player. Playing a song you don't like, pause the game, Jump Out, and let the other players finish the song on their own. Genius, I say. Pure Genius. 
Quite possibly my favorite new feature is playing as your Xbox 360 Avatar. Seeing your personal Avatar rocking out with other Guitar Hero icons makes it more personal, and possibly even surreal. All I have to say, is I am a star in Guitar Hero, and I rock!
Review Breakdown:
Graphics - 8 out of 10 - The graphics are the best in the series thus far. The ability to play as your avatar in the Xbox 360 version made it the version of choice for me. There are some themes such as a few of the female characters outfits and some dark imagery such as skulls, flames, and various other elements associated with rock-n-roll that could be a tad dark for younger gamers.
Sound - 9 out of 10 - Soundtracks make or break a music game, and Guitar Hero 5 has an outstanding mix of songs. I played every song, and even the ones I didn't think I would like, I found extremely fun to play. Of course, foul language is censored, but there are some lyrics that would be questionable for some families. On that note, most of the soundtrack is radio friendly, so it is a game I personally don't have a problem playing with my 9 year old.
Controls - 10 out of 10 - Whether you are playing Guitar, Drums, or singing the night away, the controls are what make a music game. From Beginner to Expert, anyone can jump in and play, which makes this game great for any family gathering or party.
Replay Value - 10 out of 10 - With 85 songs to choose from, the ability to import songs from Guitar Hero World Tour and Smash Hits, and download content hitting every week, this is the version of Guitar Hero that will spend the most time in your gaming system.
Family Friendly Factor - 8 out of 10 - The game loses a few points here for Mild Lyrics and Mild Suggestive Themes. As I have stated, the lyrics are censored, but there are a few questionable lyrics. The Mild Suggestive themes take the form of outfits, and some dark elements in the game, but are kept at a reasonable level.
Overall Rating - 9 out of 10 - If you are in the market for a great music game, look no further. This is the greatest Guitar Hero to date, and has the potential to provide the entire family countless hours of fun. Personally, I have no problem letting my 9 year old play this game, as long as we are doing it together. As long as you stick close to the T rating, you will be fairly safe with Guitar Hero 5.
Review and Giveaway: Mary Grace Jewellery
One winner will receive a jewelry piece of their choice from Mary Grace Jewellery.
Sign the Google Spreadsheet above.
Entry Limit: Once
I had the opportunity to review one of the most beautiful butterfly necklaces (Brass Butterfly Necklace) I've come across so far thanks to Mary Grace Jewellery. Mary Grace Jewellery is owned and operated by one busy Australian mom of 6 children! Her jewelry collection is beautiful and unique... and affordable! There's no need to go outside your budget when there is a stunning collection of jewelry like hers! It is also a perfect opportunity for you to accessorize your Autumn wardrobe.
If you're like me and go gaga over just about anything vintage or vintage inspired, you will enamored with her Vintage Inspired Collection. Her jewelry is made with such fantastic workmanship. It is quite obvious that this talented designer is passionate about her craft.
Scarlet White Necklace $30
Tangerine Ring $8
Coral Necklace $18
Cluster Bracelet $14
Gold Earrings $21
The giveaway will conclude September 30th.
- Link giveaway on your own blog, Twitter, Facebook, and / or Myspace.
- Follow me on this blog.
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- Join Facebook group.
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Note: The winner will be randomly chosen through Random.org.
Winner must respond within 72 hours of notification.
Carol's Daughter and Disney Collaborate
For your little princess, Carol's Daughter and Disney present a collection of gentle hair and bath products based on the new Disney film "The Princess and The Frog".
Disney's newest Princess, Tiana, and Carol's Daughter are proof that with love and hard work, dreams truly can come true. Inspire your little princess to dream big with these genuinely natural products.
Ruby Slipper Collection
In celebration of the 70th Anniversary of The Wizard of Oz, Warner Bros. Consumer Products in partnership with CRYSTALLIZED™ - Swarovski Elements, invited the world’s top shoe designers to reinterpret Dorothy’s iconic Ruby Slippers for modern times, granting them creative license and access to unlimited CRYSTALLIZED™ - Swarovski Elements to re-imagine Dorothy’s design with their own vision of the sparkling Ruby Slipper.
The shoes will be on display at the Swarovski CRYSTALLIZED ™ Store in Soho from September 15 - 23, giving the public one final chance to be enchanted by the Ruby Slipper Collection.
Following the showcase, the Collection will be auctioned at Warner Bros. Entertainment’s “Emerald Gala” at Tavern on the Green on September 24, 2009 to benefit long-term philanthropic partner, the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation. The auction – open to global bidders – will be held online on http://www.rubyslipperauction.com starting September 10, with final bids closing and tabulated the evening of September 24, 2009. Each pair of designer Ruby Slippers in the Collection will be auctioned off individually.
The “Emerald Gala” will feature special performances by Grammy Award winner Ashanti and Lorna Luft, the daughter of Judy Garland, as well as appearances by the original Munchkins and the Wizard of Oz National Tour cast.
Make-A-Wish Foundation and Mattel Work Together to Impact the Lives of 30,000 Children Globally
This week, Make-A-Wish Foundation International and the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America will announce their joining with Mattel, Inc., the world's leading toy manufacturer, as a Global Signature Partner. With this announcement, Mattel will become part of the Make-A-Wish experiences of 30,000 children with life-threatening medical conditions worldwide in the next year.
To launch this effort, Mattel, Inc. has created custom-designed Make-A-Wish Barbie dolls and Make-A-Wish Hot Wheels cars that will be given to wish kids around the world. The toys will be used as special gifts for children as they begin their wish experience. Mattel will also continue to work with the Make-A-Wish organizations to grant wishes globally to children related to its American Girl, Barbie and Hot Wheels brands.
"We're pleased to join with a company such as Mattel whose goal is also to bring happiness to children," said David Williams, Make-A-Wish Foundation of America president and chief executive officer. "These popular dolls and cars will help our wish-granting volunteers break the ice with courageous children as we begin to create their incredible wish experiences."
As the largest toy manufacturer in the world, Mattel is dedicated to providing safe and reliable products to children, as well as giving back 2 percent of pretax profit through philanthropic programs. Mattel's Global Signature Partner program is a part of its corporate philanthropy programs, re-launched in 2005 to dedicate the maximum Mattel resources around its core philanthropic vision and values. In 2007, Mattel added the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America as a Signature Partner and expands its support around the world this year to Make-A-Wish Foundation International and its 33 affiliates, which serve children outside the United States and its territories.
"We're proud to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation globally and to be able to design and create special toys that will impact the lives of thousands of children facing life-threatening medical conditions this year," said Tim Kilpin, general manager of the Boys, Girls and Games division at Mattel, Inc. and Make-A-Wish Foundation International board member.
In fiscal year 2008, the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America granted 13,425 wishes, the most ever in its history. The organization relies on the grassroots support of nearly 25,000 volunteers to serve its chapters across the country in a variety of capacities, including wish granting, office administrative support, special event planning, language translation, fundraising and much more.
In the past 18 months, Make-A-Wish Foundation International has opened new affiliates in Brazil, Germany, Pakistan and Turkey. Wishes around the world vary greatly, from Peruvian child Angel Jesus' wish "to have toys to play with" to Canadian child Alain's wish to "visit Egypt with my father" to Jaine's wish in Brazil to "see the ocean."
"By helping grant our children's heartfelt wishes, we bring a ray of sunshine back into their worlds, and with this joy, life becomes worth living again," said Dr. Keith Goh, chair of Make-A-Wish Foundation International and renowned pediatric neurosurgeon. "We look forward to moving in step with our partner Mattel as we bring hope, strength, and joy to more children around the world."
September is Hunger Action Month
Did you know that if you gave up your daily coffee for one week, you could use that money to help provide 63 meals to Americans struggling with hunger?
September is Hunger Action Month and they are encouraging people to “Give a Little, Feed a Lot” and help those in need. On their Hunger Action Month website, you can use tehir handy calculator to see the difference you can make in the lives of those facing hunger just by giving up some of your daily luxuries — like dining out, happy hour and coffee.
Visit http://www.feedingamerica.org/hungeractionmonth to see how you can get involved in Hunger Action Month this September. And follow their updates all month long on their Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/feedingamerica.
Clorox College Survival Guide 2009 Blog Tour
To ease Moms’ concerns and prepare freshmen for college, The Clorox Company teamed up with college students and moms across the country to develop an authentic College Survival Guide. The guide serves many purposes, with helpful advice such as:
- A “heads up” on the popular regional trends in clothing and accessories as well as activities that come along with going to school in the Midwest, the Northeast, the South, and the West Coast
- Instructions for a “5-Minute Dorm Room Clean-Up”
- Seasonal influenza and novel H1N1 2009 flu virus prevention tips
- Dorm room “must-haves” for living away from home
- Lifestyle tips from experienced Moms
Please find the Clorox College Survival Guide 2009 national edition available for download here! The regional editions can be found by visiting the College Survival Guide Facebook fan page, which you can find when you search “College Survival Guide 2009” on Facebook.
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