Ruby's Studio DVDs: The ABCs of raising a good human

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I've told you about some of the great finds from my trip to Blogher but this DVD and the company behind its creation is probably my favorite.  In this crazy mixed up world we live in, so much focus is placed on academics and how well kids do on school testing.  The Mother Company knows that it is more important to raise good humans.  But how do we, as parents, do that? 

This first video of Ruby's Studio, in what I hope is a very long list, focuses on feelings.  Through Ruby's guidance, the kids learn about feelings in a variety of ways.  From art projects, discussion, animated stories and music, the kids are taught not only what different emotions are but also ways to express them.  When I showed my kids this video package and said we were going to watch it, they were not interested.  I mean, where were the trucks and legos?  I put it in to watch by myself, but after just a minute or two, both of my boys came over to watch.  Both boys were quiet.  As the show played on, I laid down my youngest to change his diaper, much to his dismay.  He looked right up at me and said, "I'm frustrated."  HA!  I wasn't sure, at 2 1/2 years old, how much he would pick up.  But obviously he was getting the message.  A few minutes later as I sat on the couch with my oldest son, I turned toward him to see if he was enjoying the DVD.  As if in answer to the unspoken question, he said, "I'm happy."  I thought the DVD and calm pace would not interest him (he's a rocker through and through) but it absolutely did.  

Watch the trailer!!

Cute! Right?!  What caught my eye initially at their Blogher booth was their design aesthetic.  Clean, modern but with whimsical touches, it was something that I was glad to share with my kids.  There is no need to sacrifice good design just because it is a kid's show. And they certainly haven't. 

The 45 minute DVD is made up of small segments.  From group discussions (none of the kids are scripted to ensure honest answers) to animated music segments the message is reinforced throughout.  I especially loved the 'Garden Theater' with this adorable family of snail puppets.  The shot above is from my TV screen.  The words on the bottom are from the 'Pop Up Parenting' option.  With that feature on, corresponding information for the parents pops up to further explain the emotional development of the child and other tidbits that might help us to make better parenting decisions.  It is awesome.  

And how freaking cute is Ruby, played by Kelsey Collins???  Does she remind anyone else of the adorable Emily Henderson?  As a host she is sweet, caring and likable.  And her hip, vintagey style is child appropriate and fashionable at the same time.  Similarly, the overall design of the set is pretty awesome.  The set is kind of like a big loft with exposed brick and vintage touches.  An alcove with a ceiling covered with all white, different sized paper lanterns is totally whimsical and cool.  A discussion area is amazing with bright colored designer chairs.  And the music is totally kid friendly without being too cutesy.  This is very important to me.  I feel like children's music should not be dumbed down for the kids and this is not.  Job well done.   

I really liked this DVD, available for purchase through their website or at Whole Foods.  The Mother Company also has an amazing newsletter and website full of helpful parenting information.  Be sure to check it out.  I'm so glad that I got a chance to meet this great team at Blogher.  I wish them huge success!   

And also look for more DVDs to come out later this year!  

Sharon

Last 2 pictures are mine, all others from The Mother Company

Serve Ciao Bella Sorbet at your next cocktail party!

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You guys know that I had a makeover by Mom's Fashion File, right? (said sarcastically and with a wink).  I'm not trying to rub it in to those that didn't win, or brag about how fantastic I looked "after".   It was an amazing opportunity on so many levels.  I met many beauty experts and successful professional bloggers but it really came down to the amazing group of sponsors they put together including those from their Secret Style Suite party.  The absolute highlight for me (and not just because it contained alcohol that I required before the fashion show) were the cocktails created using some of the Ciao Bella Sorbets.  (Remember I posted a brief snippet about them about a month ago?) Absolute cool fantasticness and you SO totally need to set up a bar at your next party. 

Ciao Bella uses all natural ingredients and delicious, bold flavors and is a favorite of my family.  I am dying to try the Peach Ginger Sorbet though, so if anyone in Orange County runs across it can you let me know! I look at every market I visit and have yet to find it! 

Follow Ciao Bella on Twitter and Facebook! 

Here are some recipes for you to try out.  You will not be disappointed!

{peach ginger margarita}

1/2 pint CIAO BELLA Peach Ginger Sorbet

1/2 pint CIAO BELLA Lemon Zest Sorbet

1/2 cup lime juice

1 cup tequila (white or golden)

1/4 cup Cointreau

Ice Cubes

Optional:  salt for the rim

Place all ingredients in a blender and pulse until smooth.  Pour into a margarita glass with a salted rim.  Add more ice as needed.

{wild blueberry lemon drop}  I heard RAVE reviews about this one

2 oz. citrus vodka

1 oz. Cointreau

2 oz. lemonade

CIAO BELLA Wild Blueberry Sorbet (very soft)

Optional:  sugar for the rim and CIAO BELLA Lemon Zest Sorbet

Combine all ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice and shake vigorously.  Pour into a chilled martini glass with a sugared rim.  Garnish with a small scoop of Wild Blueberry or Lemon Zest Sorbet!

{blood orange sparkling sangria} This is the one I had...PERFECTION!

One bottle sparkling wine (can use white or rose)

1/2 cup Cointreau

1 pint fresh raspberries

1 pint strawberries (cleaned and cut in to small pieces)

CIAO BELLA Blood Orange, CIAO BELLA Prickly Pear Sorbet or CIAO BELLA Peach Ginger Sorbet (all good options)

Pour wine and Cointreau into a pitcher.  Delicately add fruit and ice.  Pour into glasses and garnish with CIAO BELLA sorbets.  

{pickly pear bellini}

Sparkling wine (prosecco, cava or champagne)

CIAO BELLA Prickly Pear Sorbet

Optional:  fresh fruit for garnish, CIAO BELLA Blood Orange Sorbet or CIAO BELLA Raspberry Sorbet

Pour the sparkling wine into a champagne flute leaving plenty of room at the top.  Slowly add a small scoop of the Prickly Pear sorbet to the glass.  Be mindful as it will likely foam up over the rim of the glass.  Cheers!  

Go try it.  Now.  

Sharon

Top 2 photos by Amy Winkelmann for Cupcakes and Cutlery

Bottom 2 photos by Bella Diva Photo (see more shots of the Ciao Bella Table from the party here)

I went to Blogher and all I got was a full makeover! {by Moms Fashion File!}

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Yikes.  That is a very big picture of my face.  Thank goodness it is the "after" photo from the awesome makeover I won from  Mom's Fashion File.  You may remember my {entry post} from a few months ago.  From that, I was one of 12 bloggers chosen to receive a full makeover while at Blogher.  After winning, I filled out questionnaires about my sizing and style preferences but really had no idea what to makeover day would be like.  I was told to report to the penthouse suite at the Hard Rock Hotel at 4pm on the Saturday of Blogher.  Um, OK!  And as with just about all of my other Blogher related posts, I dragged sweet Amy along with me to photograph the adventure.  I should also note that I just really enjoy spending time with her.  I heart that girl. 

Immediately off the elevators was this wall of Sid and Nancy and hoped that I was going to get a little rock and roll for my makeover.  My core is rock and roll but my exterior is generally a little more album alternative/ easy listening.  

via

This is my "before" shot that all participants were required to take before the metamorphosis began.  Wow.  Photographs really are great for showing you what is really going on.  I had no idea that those shoes looked so much like slippers crossed with swim fins (although I got compliments on them at the conference, holler) and the uneven leggings was unintentional.  Oh and hey, there is a toilet in the shot.  Hello, commode.    

This angel is Bethany of LA Stylist Mom.  She IS rock and roll.  If I had to pick one person that I would want to totally copy cat their style, it would be her.  I was so excited to work with her and be cool by association for a while.  You guys, she's, like, a legit stylist.  And she had her work cut out for her.

Follow Bethany on Twitter.    

First I was sent to hair.  The darling girls from San Diego's Detour Salon swaddled me in a smock and set out to give me beachy waves.  But hold the phone.  Do you know what they used?  A straightening iron!  I had accidentally created a wave in my hair once with my straightening iron but have never been able to duplicate it again.  She did my whole hair in about 10 minutes.  Done.  And super cute!!  I want to note that I did try this on myself the very next weekend and it went awry...  I must have missed a technique that is needed to achieve the pretty, slightly messy curls.  The really fun part of getting my hair done, though, was getting to try out the new Windows Phone.  The rep showed me all the cool features, like One Note and how you can open and edit Windows-based programs right from the phone.  Then she let me play around with it.  I even played Angry Birds for the first time!  The drag and drop screen was really fun and I loved that the home page looked like color blocking, so hot for fall!   

The atmosphere in the salon was really fun.  Plum District was a big sponsor of the party Mom's Fashion File was throwing later that night and provided waters for the makeover day.  Yummy sparkling wine was available although I did not partake due to not having eaten a meal since dinner the night before {I had read prior to coming to Blogher that it was hard to get in actual meals, but I though no way.  It was true, even I skipped meals to try to fit it all in.  That is not to say that I didn't hover by the Jimmy Dean booth for several samples that morning}  How yummy does that cake ball look?  The suite was super swanky.  I hoped they would take their time getting me ready so I could pretend that it was my hotel room.

With my hair done did, it was time to get styled!  I was ushered in to a bedroom and the fun began.  The Loft provided this purple wrap dress for me to wear {totally got to keep it!}.  Instead of using the matching tank, Bethany used the Yummy Tummy tank for a little touch of black.  But what shoes...I tried on several pairs and ended up with these black heeled sandals by Dr. Scholl's.  I kid you not, could be the most comfortable heels I have ever worn.  And I kind of can't wait to wear them again. You know how the balls of your feet usually kill the next morning after being out on the town the night before?  Nope, my feet felt great!  And then I learned why Bethany gets paid for what she does.  We could have just tied the belt around the back, or even to the side.  No way.  She tucked and wrapped and made it resemble an Obi belt.  Cool.  Add in the gorgeous metallic flecked infinity scarf and my outfit was complete.  On to accessories.  I took off the Stella and Dot jewelry I walked in with (thank you again, Heather!) and Bethany began to complete my look with a stack of Stella and Dot bracelets and wraps provided to us for the night.  With the leather, studding and snake bangle I kind of rounded the corner to rock and roll.  I looked cute.   Outfit complete!  I wished that I had had a slip, remember that I am 80 years old on the inside, but I loved the overall look.  So fun!  

Let me take a moment to also mention that while I was being styled, fellow blogger Cheryl, of Mommy Pants was getting her Loft on too.  She and her stylist Jillian, of The Fab Mom, were awesome and I was glad to share that experience with them.  They may have seen my boobies. 

Hair, check!  Clothes, check!  Makeup, yes please!  Ms. Tia Dantzler is an artist.  I feel so lucky to have met her and have the opportunity to have my makeup done by her.  I've had my makeup done "professionally" a handful of times for weddings, special occasions, etc.  Only 1 person has ever made me feel beautiful when I walked away.  Until Tia.  I did not get to spend a ton of time with her but she made me feel pretty.  She had the most calming presence, which I totally needed at that moment, and was just a lovely person.  I wish that I had gotten more time with her to actually learn some of the techniques she used.  But luckily for us, she too, has a blog, The Beauty Elixir!  It is filled with beauty tips, how to's, product preferences and rad photos of the amazing work she has done {but, um, totally go check out her portfolio too - she's worked on some amazing people and projects!}  I don't know how she finds the time to do it all, but she is an inspiration.  In an industry where people are quick to judge and want to change people in to something they might not be, she kept me, ME.  I looked like a more dressed up, refined version of myself, but it was me.  She's the best you guys.  I admire her as a business women and creative mind. 

Follow Tia on Twitter.

I feel pretty, oh so pretty.  Except for that claw hand clutching the glass.  Raaaawwwwwrrrrr! 

Next up was a manicure using the Best. Polish. Ever.  I am seriously in love with Scotch Naturals.  I am going to do a whole separate post on them because they are brilliant.  I got this great sparkly black painted on my nails.  Another step closer to full-on rock and roll.  And that completes the make over portion of my day.  What an amazing experience. 

Follow Scotch Naturals on Twitter.

A HUGE thank you to the Mom's Fashion File team that put on the makeovers:  

Brooke of Mom's Fashion File

Allison of Sassy Moms in the City, on Twitter

Andrea of Savvy Sassy Moms, on Twitter.

Nicole of Mom Trends, on Twitter.

Follow Moms Fashion File on Twitter.

I will never forget that experience and it was an amazing way to do Blogher for the first time.   

Yeah.  So this is all the swag I got from the makeover.  See that rad canvas and green bag right there?  That was from Land's End.  Inside was a beach towel {side note:  Land's End beach towels are the best beach towels ever.  I just got rid of the towel I stole from my mom's house when I moved out on my own about 10 years ago.  They are an amazing quality, they are huge and your toes don't hang off in to the sand and you can monogram them.}, white aviator sunglasses, cute brown sandals, a darling pink tankini, a white bathing suite coverup and a gift card for $75!  I'll be sharing what I got with that in a future post.  Check out that red Namaste purse!  I can't wait to use it!  I am so excited to read Soleil Moon Frye's new book, Happy Chaos!  Of course I loved her as Punky but I truly admire the shop, Little Seed, that she opened in Los Angeles.  I think I could learn a lot from her as a parent.  Now I just need my kids to leave me alone for a few minutes so I can get to it.  But that wasn't even close to everything.  I was given this gorgeous orangey-red Scotch Naturals polish which I can't wait to use.  And every Johnson and Johnson's product that I've been wanting to try was sent home with me.  Did you guys know they make a baby oil gel?     

On Twitter follow:

Lands End

Namaste

Soleil Moon Frye, The Little Seed

Johnson and Johnson

With time to kill until the party, Amy and I headed back over to the Hotel Solamar to meet Lisa and have more Basil Gimlets.  We carried all that loot across town.  We looked a little bit like really well dressed homeless ladies.  I passed blogging friends and they were so excited to see my transformation.  I didn't think it was that drastic but a few people didn't recognize me.  After a quick bite, I headed back to the Hard Rock for the Secret Style Suite party.     

Here is my official "after" photo by Bella Diva Photo.  That blue thing in my hand is a drink ticket.  Immediately after the photo I redeemed that baby.  A libation was necessary to calm my nerves for the impending FASHION SHOW I had to be in!  

Details from the party to come!  

See all of Bella Diva Photo's pics during all the makeovers here. 

Sharon 

All photos mine (taken by Amy) unless otherwise noted. 

My true Wonderlandia {Hostess with the Mostess throws a party!}

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When I found out that Jenn of Hostess with the Mostess was throwing a launch party in San Diego while I would already be there for Blogher, I just about flipped my lid!  I knew that I HAD to be there and I'm so lucky that I was able to get on the guest list.  It was one of the most talked about parties of the convention.  Jenn created the best party site on the web.  You KNOW she throws a good party.  And when word got out, party girls from all over the country decided to fly in to attend.  That meant I would finally get to meet some ridiculously talented girls who I "know" online, in person.  Amy and I met up with Lindsey of The Stationery Place at the Convention Center, hopped in a cab then stopped for a warm up at The Hotel Solamar bar, Jsix, just downstairs from where the party was being held.  This drink pictured above is a Basil Gimlet.  I can't stop thinking about it.  It was AMAZING!   I want to drink gallons of it (you can keep your vodka or gin - whatever it is - It's the basil and lime that I need in my mouth.)  I also want to wear it like a perfume.  The fresh basil was intoxicating!  Seriously, if you ever go to San Diego, you must check it out.  When it was finally time, we headed just outside to check in for the party.  

Never mind the fact that the step and repeat was mere feet away, we decided that we needed to go ahead and start the picture taking.  How darling is my Lockheart bag?  Rad roses made out of zippers!  I am not a spokesperson or paid endorser, I just love their bags!  And I'm going to warn you,  I am in almost every photo in this post.  For some reason I thought it would be cool to have a photo with each of the amazing ladies that I met, but now seeing them all in one place, its a little much.  

Jenn had every detail thought of.  Check out the cute check in boys, complete with matching ties and hats.  They totally matched the decor of the check in table.  I did not get any photos of the check in girls, but they had the cutest tiny top hats on their heads!  What a great way to set the tone for the rest of the party.  

Inside the party, there was a tablescape showcase sponsored by Glue Dots.  These three above are my favorites although they were all SO good.  I read on Hostess with the Mostess that they would be sharing details on each individual table soon so check there to see good photos and learn more about the table designs.  In the mean time, check out some shots on With Style and Grace.   The one of the top left is by Paper and Cake, bottom left by A Subtle Revelry and photo on the right is the smaller cake table as part of Jesi Haack's table.  All of them were stunning!!! 

How fun is the dessert table?!  And next to it, there was a candy display on both sides.  Gorgeous flowers, playful touches and delicious looking desserts.  How much fun is that donut cake???  No, there is not a bunny head coming out of the top of it, that is due to my poor photography skills.  

And so it begins...  So this girl is Lisa of With Style and Grace.  She is awesome.  For real.  I had "known" Lisa for about a year online, and had been trying to figure out when I could meet her.  It just so happened that she was going to be in town for meetings whilst Blogher was going down.  Yeah!  She must be the sweetest, most delightful person I have ever met.  And ridiculously talented.  I adore her blog and how much heart she puts in to each post.  You always get a little something extra with her.  She is totally a resident in the fantasy party girl commune that is in my head and I can't wait to see her again.    

Here is my sweetie pumpkin, Chris of Celebrations at Home.  LOVE her!  She has an amazing site, she's super funny and I want to put some sort of translation device on my cell phone that makes every caller have her voice.  Her accent is awesome and I find her utterly charming.  As you may remember from my post a few days ago I tower over her so in this photo I was trying to make her feel a little taller.  I was not standing on my knees.  But I was close.  Wink. 

I've been super lucky to have worked with the Glue Dots team on several projects and it was so awesome to meet them in person.  They were in town to meet all the amazingly creative women attending the conference and sponsored several great events.  Here are Janel and Lindsey.  I love these ladies!!!

I have been a fan of Bump Smitten since it started and when I found out that Elizabeth was not only at the conference but going to the HWTM party I did a little happy dance!  SO cool!  It was so great to get to know her a little bit better.  I found out Lindi, of Love the Day Design, was going to be at the party from Chris the night before and was ecstatic!  I Love Lindi's style, her party sets and the finished look of her parties and shoots.  And what a sweetheart!  That girl can give a good hug.  There were several attempts to hook up with both of these ladies the next day but we all kept missing each other.  I didn't get nearly enough time with these two and hope we all end up in the same place again really soon!  

Finally!!!! I got to meet Abigal of Paper and Cake!  For some reason, even though she had a table there, I had forgotten she would be at the party.  So it wasn't until later in the party when I found her.  And while I didn't get to spend much time with her, which was probably better as I was a few glasses in (Thank you Columbia Crest!), I was so pleased to have finally met her in person.  I can't wait to meet up with her again soon.  And yes, that is Amy Locurto of Living Locurto.  I must say that she is darling in her photos online, but freaking gorgeous in person.  I didn't get to talk too much to her.  What do you say to someone that talented?  ILoveYouYouAreAwesomeMayIPleaseTakeALockOfYourHair? Can you say restraining order? 

I don't know Jenn and imagined that she had met a ton of people at the party so I decided not to gush all over her and really overwhelm her, although maybe she and Amy Locurto could save money on some sort of joint restraining order?  She seems so kind and sweet and it was wonderful to hear stories from the other party girls who do know her well.  I have been an avid reader of Hostess with the Mostess for a really long time and am so delighted to see what she has turned it in to.  As the party was a launch party for some new features on the site, it was really cool to celebrate all her hard work and look forward to all that she is going to do in the future.  In this photo she is with Amy Belle Isle of Operation Shower (and formerly of Stem Parties).  I had been stalking her blog for years and it was so awesome to meet her.  She is one of my new favorite people.  Aside from being just plain adorable, she is witty, and has the most amazing heart.  I love the work she is doing with Operation Shower and I can't wait to learn more about it.  But why didn't I end up with a photo with her???  I hung out with her at a party the next night, too, and didn't get a picture there either!  Amy, that just means we will have to see each other somewhere soon. 

Guess who else I got to meet?  Victoria of A Subtle Revelry!  Her talents are ridiculous.  Her style is cool and casual and she's possibly the most creative person on the face of the planet.  I am SO looking forward to her next edition of Styled magazine.  I would give almost anything to be a part of her creative process and see how she goes about her one of a kind creations.  She is a huge inspiration to me.  

After the party a group of us were very hungry.  So we paraded around town looking for someplace to eat.  We ended up at a fun little diner (not super fun if you are Lisa and looking to eat something gluten free- but she's a trooper!) for some midnight snacks.  Nothing says I'm ready to go to bed like a bacon cheeseburger.  Super bummed I didn't get a photo with Tori of Thoughtfully Simple!  Here she is pictured above with Lisa at the diner.  She is so cute!  I wish we had had more time to hang out but we live pretty close to each other and I know we will meet up! 

Another great lady that I met that night was Heather from Sixty Minute Housewife, you guys, her site is gonna be sooooo cute!  So fun to find out she is local too and she's simply adorable.  It was super cool to meet Rebekah of A Blissful Nest.  I am definitely not done with her.  I plan on meeting up with her again soon. And Jillian of Catch My Party!  Gosh, what a resource her site is!  I have been meaning to upload some of my parties to her site since I returned.

I am bummed that I didn't get to spend more time with Lindsey but so glad we had a little bit of time before the party to get to know each other.  

And then there is my sweet, sweet Amy.  Since she is a food blogger and doesn't follow the party blogs the way that I do, she didn't know too many people.  But she is the best friend a girl can have.  She let me mingle and chat and even told me just to give her the camera and she would just take pictures of me all night.  How cool is that!  But she fit right in and I'm pretty sure she had a great time too.  And wait until you hear about how much she helped me at my makeover the next day...  I am a little surprised she is still speaking with me.  I heart you SO much!  

Can this even please be annual?  The other Blogher parties were fun, but this one was a blast.  Thank you to Jenn for having all of us and hope to get another opportunity to hang out with you all soon!  

See all the official photos from the Step and Repeat here! 

Sharon

All photos are mine.

Blogher 11: Best of the Expo and Sponsor Suites

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With breakfast on the first morning over, it was time to checkout the Expo floor.  The expo floor is the part of Blogher where all the sponsors show off their newest products and programs.  It is also where they laden you down with so much free stuff that you beg people for bags to carry it in with promises of being their best friend.  Note:  Pepsico has enough bffs but will still give you a bag if you need it.  Quick, go buy Pepsi and chips!  Yes, that is my puffy, tired face on the right and of course we run in to this pretty lady within 30 seconds of entering the Expo area.   How adorable is Tera Rae Stephens?!  She is the best hair stylist in all the land.  But she's so much more than that, too.  She's always been a cheerleader for me and she has a great business-y mind.  You really are getting more than just a cut and color with her.  And she promises to teach me how to do those amazing beachy waves...

I was immediately attracted to the Glad booth with all its lovely florals and pink.  Upon closer look, I found what I think is the most beautiful cookbook ever created called Pretty Delicious!  Using vintage-esque florals and sweet eyelet details, the printed recipes are gorgeous and trumped only by the amazing photography.  This is quite possibly the best bridal shower gift idea ever! And the best part, the recipes actually sound good and are healthy for you!  Bonus!  The author, Candace Kumai (a total cutie) was in the booth sharing recipe cards of some of yummy dishes created exclusively for Glad To Go.  I can't wait to try her Roasted Fig and Blue Cheese Salad!  Glad To Go is their newest container.  And I must say it is rather brilliant.  It is basically two containers that secure together with one lid.  So if you want to take a salad along with you, the dressing can go in the separate, smaller container which fits right in to the middle of the same lid that closes the container.  Perfect for kid's snacks and even some craft supplies.  I don't see them yet on their website but they will surely be out soon (Check out this little video to see more about the cookbook and the new Glad product!)

For even more loveliness you simply must check out her blog.  It is pure eye candy!!!!!!!

StilettoChef.com

Follow Candace on Twitter

Lowe's was out in full force with a two story booth that resembled a house.  They were there to showcase a few of their different programs, one of which was Lowe Creative Ideas magazine and website.  I knew Lowe's was more lady friendly but had no idea they were such a great resource!  Check out this photobooth frame project and this spray painted stencil rug that could also work as a tablecovering or photo backdrop.  Lowe's had teams on hand to interview people about creativity.  Here is my pal, Amy being interviewed.  Doesn't she look like a natural?  And she's totally TV cute.  I'm pushing for her own show...  I've signed up for a free subscription for Lowe's Creative Ideas magazine and can't wait to be inspired!  

Later in the day they also held a bloggers challenge.  They put together teams of bloggers, gave them materials from the store and let them get creative with them.  The team pictured above, including the super funny Angry Julie, put together a really fun tablescape set up.  They used buckets as seats and some clear tubing for drinking straws.  What a fun idea!!!!   

And they also made sure that I knew about the kid's workshops they hold at each location called "Build and Grow Clinics".  The police car is one of the crafts they have coming up and even has a working light on top.  What kid wouldn't love that!?!  Check with your local stores for dates.   

There was a time (a very short time) where I would only let my son watch PBS cartoons.  Luckily Dinosaur Train was on at that time.  He didn't even remember about the shows he was not allowed to watch any more.  He learned so much about dinosaurs from this show it blows my mind.  But until now, there has been a relative lack of themed toys to go along with the show.  I was super excited to see this bingo set on the Expo floor along with some other great card games for young kids.  And my kids thought I was the coolest because I got a picture with Buddy.    

These cool Wall Tracks by Hot Wheels are sure to be a hit at Christmas.  Out now, they retail for about $30 for a starter set and they are hung on the walls using those rad 3M sticky tabs that don't damage the wall surface.  The sets can be added together to make large installations and can even be put in corners.  They are a really fun way to let the kids get really creative.  

Needing some extra energy, Amy and I checked out the Hershey's S'mores Suite.  They had S'mores makers all around the sweet and it was the perfect afternoon sweet treat.  They even had an area decorated like you were at a beach campfire enjoying your s'more.  You can check out more pictures of the suite here. 

I fell in love with the invitation designs by Paper Culture.  Everything about the company is cool and modern and so ridiculously lovely.  They have added some gifts in the form of personalized bamboo plaques to their standard paper offerings.  They are SO well done.  How rad are those boy name plaques?  They make them in various sizes and would make an awesome keepsake baby gift.  If you don't know about Paper Culture be sure to go check out their designs.  With Christmas coming up, I can't think of a more perfect place to buy your family Christmas cards.  

A highlight, for sure, was meeting Wendi McLendon-Covey, the newest Hillshire Farm Spokesperson. She was super funny and warm and she was right by some yummy food samples.  I had to get a photo with her because Bridesmaids (remember her from that movie?) might be one of my favorite movies.  I love that she is their spokesperson.  Go meat! 

One of my favorite things to have happened at the conference was that I got in to a very intimate private session sponsored by Hillshire Farm about food photography and styling.  I learned so much listening to the esteemed panel of professionals they put together.  I left there so inspired and it really made me want to be better.  Sara Remington shared some amazing photos from her portfolio and I was super excited to hear that she doesn't use a lot of crazy equipment.  She urges food photographers to keep it simple and use nature lighting.  And I had seen William Smith on Food Network before and loved hearing his tips for styling food.  He was funny and friendly and, like  Sara, says keep it simple.  Oh and work fast.  Food doesn't like to sit around.  

There are a few more items from the show that I want to share, but they are so good, they deserve their own post.

If you are a blogger and thinking about going to Blogher, do it.  At least once.  Such an amazing experience! 

Sharon

all photos are mine. 

My first Blogher Party: The Big Toy Book's Sweet Suite {Blogher 2011}

We've moved to www.cupcakesandcutlery.com - you'll be redirected to this post in a moment.

If you don't know anything else about the Blogher conference, you should know that the parties are both super exciting and at the same time cause a ridiculous amount of anxiety.  It turns all junior high and for the parties that aren't open to every paying attendee of the conference there is a list.  How you get on said list varies but even being on a list doesn't mean you won't feel like the last kid picked for kickball.  Thursday night, Amy, Chris and I decided to check out one of the parties.  The Big Toy Books Sweet Suite (sponsored by The Big Toy Book and KidzVuz) was held at the Hard Rock Hotel and it was pretty cool.  It felt clubby and there were sweet treats and drinks.  What mom doesn't want to sip champagne whilst checking out the new, hottest toys?

We spent about an hour at the party - some of which may have included me and Chris chatting together animatedly while Amy was stuck talking to a toy manufacturer...sorry, Amy!  At most of the parties you are given a gift bag on departure.  This one was no different and it was already the second swag bag we'd gotten related to the conference - remember we have only been in town for about 4 hours at this point...  We lugged them back to the hotel room.  It was so efficiently packed with toys that I knew I would not be able to get them back in again if I took them out.  I let the kids tear in to it when I got home and here are our favorites from the event and gift bag.
 

We love these Fruitominoes by BananaGrams.  We have played them several times now and although my older son is really good with his numbers, the fact that these use fruit, makes it really easy to play.  My younger son got a little distracted and just pretended to eat all the fruit but I know if I gave him less sugar, he might have been able to focus long enough to match up like fruit to like fruit. 

If you have boys, you probably already have HexBugs.  My boys are surprised that I will let these in the house considering my aversion to all things buggy.  Some editions glow in the dark and the new multi-level "habitats" that they shared at the party were amazingly cool.  Although we have a few of the "bugs" these habitat kits are going to be on the Christmas lists for sure.

My son is a lego maniac.  He has a ton of sets and themes and will talk with anyone about legos, at length.  But he's not a snob.  He'll play with a faux lego set - no problem.  Anything that is a building brick but not an actual Lego is deemed a "lego not lego."  I knew he was going to love this Hasbro Kre-o set of "lego not legos" especially because they are Transformers themed.  Like the Lego Creationary sets, from one box of bricks you can create a few figures and they are similarly priced.  He really liked them and even told me "they have a lot of good details."  He's 5.  And totally my son. 

Leap Frog has a few cool new things out (or coming out).  This Leap Pad resembles an Ipad and the graphics are really good!  So much better than some of the other Leap Frog handheld devices.  Not only can you play fun and learning games, you can also take photos and edit them.  I think they said it would retail for about $99 and is available August 15, 2011.   I will be buying one.  The marketing info says ages 4-9 but my 2.5 year old would be all over it.  And how rad is this book to go along with the tag system?!  My 5 year old is a rocker through and through so anything with guitars and having to do with music interests him.  These graphics are cute and I just wish all the Leap Frog tag books could be this cute.  I'm pretty sure learning to read does not require a dorky character to teach it, so update the early reading series, would ya?! 

This last item is from Shoulder Buddies.  The silver disc contains a magnet that you put under the shoulder of your shirt to get the little troll/ducky looking guy to sit on and stay put.  My oldest son loves this thing and likes to dazzle people with its "magic."  I think you can tell by the face of my younger son in the photo above that he is a little unsure of this thing.  Do you hear, "I always feel like, somebody's watchin' me-ee" as you look at that picture?  Luckily I had a fast shutter speed.  Super fun stocking stuffer or package topper. 

Sharon

all photos are mine

I was not paid by any of the companies mentioned above to talk about their products.  I received a sample of the Fruitominoes, the Kreo, the HexBug and the Shoulder Buddies but all opinions are mine.  

Blogher 11: Fine Dining in San Diego with Delightful Ladies

We've moved to www.cupcakesandcutlery.com - you'll be redirected to this post in a moment.

Blogher was SO much fun!  I learned a little, was introduced to some great new products and connected with so many wonderful ladies.  Thursday night was was a nice mellow night, the perfect way to kick off my inaugural visit to the largest blogging conference in the galaxy (may be an exaggeration).  I was super excited to be able to dress up, wear shoes with heels and actually brush my hair for a night out with the ladies.  And don't forget that almost all of my jewelry for the weekend was provided by Stella and Dot.  How great is this first necklace, The Leona?!  And I could wear their wrap bracelets every day.  And please let me just point out that although my pose is a bit awkward, like you've caught me mid jazzercise, my right thigh looks skinny and awesome!  This is my new "go to" pose and will require an extra 12 inches on my right side for anyone interested in taking a photo with me.  Please let me know if your "good side" happens to be on your left side as then we will be photo compatible.  And this is my favorite purse for going out!  Its a Lockheart (can't remember the name of the style) and is radical.  It comes with a chain to add to wear over your shoulder but I prefer to use the single handle at the top.  While the handle is short, you can either carry it in your hand or on your fore arm.  And it's big and small.  Yeah, I said that together.  And some of you probably even know what I mean.  The shape is sort of narrow and long so you can hold a lot without feeling like you are carrying an adult diaper bag.  

Amy, of Amy's Kitchen Table was the perfect partner in crime and roommate.  But I did think I was going to have to hold her earrings while she beat up the crooked bike taxi driver who tried to extort money from us.  As we are two girls who follow the rules, we certainly didn't feel like we could walk away from the guy but we were quite literally and figuratively taken for a ride.  But it did get us to our dinner destination, Searsucker, in no time at all.  This is a Top Chef contestant's restaurant, and while I do love myself some reality tv, I had also heard great things about the food.  And I was super excited to see the design.  I've pulled several images of the dining room for inspirational purposes so to finally get to see it in person was cool.  The food didn't disappoint and neither did the company.  

Amy, Janel and I at Searsucker {San Diego}

Dinner was shared with Chris of Celebrations at Home and Lindsey, Bev and Janel of Glue Dots.  Janel and I have been working on projects for a while now and it was so great to finally meet in person!  

I have been waiting foreva, eva to meet this adorable, little lady.  Chris at Celebrations at Home is just as lovely in person as I thought she would be.  I was beyond excited that she flew in for the Hostess with the Mostess shindig but it didn't feel fair that I would only get her for two days.  And she's two feet shorter than me so hugging her probably made it look like I was trying to mug her.  She likes the rap music like I do.  Just saying.  After dinner the fine ladies from Glue Dots went off to sponsor a shindig that we weren't invited to so we decided to try out our first Blogher party.  It was all about the newest toys that were coming out and I knew that if my kids were mad at me for being gone, I was sure to bring home some cools swag to win them over.  I was not wrong.  I'll share some of my fave toys picks tomorrow!  

There will be several days of Blogher wrap up posts to come.  Sorry if you guys are sick of hearing about it but it was a good time.  

Sharon

All photos mine except for the photo of Amy, Janel and I taken by Lindsey from Glue Dots.