Book Blast and $25 Giveaway The Shadow of the Unicorn: The Legacy by Suzanne de Montigny

About the Book

Title: The Shadow of the Unicorn: The Legacy (The Shadow of the Unicorn, Book #1) | Author: Suzanne de Montigny | Publication Date: October 15, 2014 | Publisher: MuseItUp Publishing | Number of pages: 124 | Recommended age: 9+ Summary: A loud, hissing sound filled the air. The unicorns looked up, their eyes filled with horror. Azaria, a unicorn colt, is intrigued when the young clairvoyant dinosaur, Darius, foresees a terrifying change in the world. When a giant fireball smashes into the earth, the unicorns struggle to survive the hurricanes and starvation that follow. Danger of a more sinister nature threatens when the creatures-that-walk-on-two-legs settle in the valley and their leader, Ishmael, discovers the healing power of the unicorns’ horns. Azaria, now a young stallion, must use his wits to save the herd from complete extinction.

Amazon (Print) | Amazon (Kindle) | Goodreads

*** For those of you living in British Columbia, you can grab a print copy of "The Shadow of the Unicorn" from the local Kidsbook Bookstore in Vancouver. ***  

FREE Study Guide

There is now a FREE 36-page reproducible study guide to The Shadow of the Unicorn complete with integrated activities for kids and a complete answer key for parents, teachers, and homeschoolers. Click on the image below to download your free copy.  

Book Preview

Winner of the 2013 Global E-book Award for Best Fantasy/Alternate History

 

The Buzz About the Book

"The Shadow of the Unicorn provides an innovative and interesting plotline exploring how the fictional unicorns, the extinct dinosaurs, and early humans may have interacted if they co-existed in a post-apocalyptic world. Suzanne de Montigny does an excellent job of exploring the themes of natural disasters and environmental change, human greed, compassion, and courage. At the end of the day, The Shadow of the Unicorn is an entertaining read that I think will be enjoyed by children who love the fantasy genre and are keen on reading about unicorns. Ages 9+" ~ Renee @ Mother Daughter Book Reviews

"Kudos to Ms. de Montigny for writing an original variation on the fantasy epic--unicorns intermingling with dinosaurs! The book's themes include the humane and environmental concerns that Watership Down and the films of Hayao Miyazaki have in common. If you have a middle grader or are just young at heart, pick up The Shadow Of The Unicorn." ~ 5 Star Review, Stuart W., Amazon

"The Shadow of the Unicorn is a must-read for all unicorn lovers, but even more so for the ones, like my self, who hadn't read anything about them yet. It is a thrilling and encouraging story about a young unicorn that has to save his herd after a meteor nearly destroyed their environment and killed the dinosaurs. Suzanne de Montigny created a compelling universe with believable characters and a great adventure story to challenge them with. While the story finishes in this book, I can't wait to read about the new adventures the unicorns will face.." ~ 5 Star Review, Antje H., Amazon

"This story pulled me in with a beautiful portrayal of a time and place where unicorns and dinosaurs live side by side. It moved me forward with unexpected twist and turns (a requirement in any good story). I found it hard to put the book down and was totally engaged in seeing the young characters (unicorns and dinosaurs) survive and grow because of the challenges they faced." ~ 5 Star Review, NW Harris, Amazon

"What a delightfully unique book. Unicorns and dinosaurs facing changing conditions. Darius is a young dinosaur capable of seeing the future. Azaria is a young unicorn who becomes a friend and learns from Darius. Yes, there are humans in this book. They are the villains of the story. Greedy beasts. I think both boys and girls will love this story. Very quick paced and easy to read. A delightful story, and I look forward to more from this author." ~ 5 Star Review, DM Lawrence, Amazon

 

About the Author: Suzanne de Montigny

[caption id="attachment_15106" align="alignleft" width="167"] Suzanne de Montigny[/caption]   Suzanne de Montigny wrote her first unicorn story at the age of twelve. Several years later, she discovered it in an old box in the basement, thus reigniting her love affair with unicorns. The Shadow of the Unicorn: The Legacy, is her first novel. Suzanne lives in Burnaby, B.C. with the three loves of her life – her husband and two boys. For more information about Suzanne and The Shadow of the Unicorn, please visit http://www.suzannedemontigny.com

Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

   

* $25 Book Blast Giveaway *

Prize: $25 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner's choice) Contest ends: December 27, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Suzanne de Montigny and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions - feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Creative Kids Will Love Liquid Chalkers by Paper and Twine

I'm always looking for fun arts and crafts projects that my kids and I can do together, or they can do independently. Being a mom to four kids, I prefer projects that are really easy to clean up. These pens are not only easy to clean up, but they are also a blast to use! 

The Liquid Chalker pens are bright and colorful. They come in a package of 8 colors. My kids were so excited when they arrived! We quickly took a picture and then opened them. The pens have the same functionality as the Sharpie Oil-based Marker, where you need to shake them first and then press the tip down onto a paper towel or cardboard to allow the ink to soak into the tip of the pen before using. Once the tip of the pen has fully changed color, you are ready to go! 

The following is a YouTube video we created to help illustrate what you need to do and then how easy it is to draw with and wipe off!

How to Get Started with the Liquid Chalkers Video

My kids created a holiday theme throughout the windows of my house. If they created something they didn't like, they easily wiped it off with a paper towel. I actually was extremely impressed with how easy it was for them to wipe off the dried chalk marker with a non-wet paper towel.

Ideas for Using the Liquid Chalkers: 

There are so many uses for these chalker makers! 

• You can write notes on your front door window like saying "Thank you" to your postman or "Merry Christmas". 
• For tournaments and birthday parties, you and your kids can make fun pictures and sayings on your car windows. 
• You can also decorate the windows of your home for the holidays for your neighbors and friends to enjoy.
• Write a sweet note to your kids or spouse on their bathroom mirror.
• And don't forget, you can always use these chalk markers on a chalkboard.

The only thing that you need to keep in mind with these pens is that they should not be used on any porous surface because they can absorb into it.

Overall, we highly recommend Liquid Chalkers by Paper and Twine! So much fun and creativity in one little package!

Available for purchase on 

Amazon or www.liquidchalkers.com

I received this product free in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not compensated in any way for my review. All opinions of this product are 100% my own.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Lil' Mess Dress Giveaway

Si and Roo Lil' Mess Dress

I'm excited to be hosting Si and Roo's first Lil' Mess Dress Giveaway ($32.00 value)! Si and Roo will be giving away one Ocean Dreams Lil' Mess Dress in the winner's choice of size!

The Lil' Mess Dress is one adorably, tough little dress! It was designed in July, 2014 and has already received an endorsement by PTPA (Parent Tested Parent Approved)! 

I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to test the dress prior to the company launching. It is adorable and lives up to its name! I had my three year old eat pasta, roll in the southern red clay mud, and even smear mustard and ketchup all over the dress. Everything came off in the wash! I was so impressed! The material is soft and comfortable. The ruffles on the bottom make it fun to wear. And the colors are bright and cheerful. 

LIL' MESS DRESS - OCEAN DREAMS DESCRIPTION
This Lil' Mess Dress is part of Si and Roo's Signature Collection. It was inspired by the beautiful oceans of Key Biscayne. Dinner on the beach will never be a mess with our beautiful Ocean top detailed with two rows of Fuchsia ruffles. It all stuffs into a Ocean colored bag for easy travel.

Ocean Dreams Lil' Mess Dress

ABOUT SI AND ROO:
Si and Roo was founded in 2014 by Shawn Ostrower, a loving mom of two and an educational psychologist who has developed literary and developmental programs for Independent and Charter School Districts. And that's just the beginning! Shawn Ostrower has worked with non-profit companies providing early intervention services and CPSE evaluations for low-income families, and also founded Educate2learn.

Being an entrepreneurial mom, Shawn found a need for a product that was attractive to her children and would keep their clothes clean. It had to be portable, breathable, water resistant, and safe. After scouring the internet she was unsatisfied with the limited options. The smocks were unappealing and bibs were not developmentally appropriate. In July 2014, on her personal sewing machine the Lil' Mess Dress was born. The Super Mess Maker was soon to follow. With these two new products, we offer parents and children a fun, innovative, and developmentally appropriate way to stay clean. 

WEBSITE  |  SI AND ROO BLOG 

TWITTER  |  FACEBOOK  |  YOUTUBE  |  INSTAGRAM

ENTER THE LIL' MESS DRESS GIVEAWAY

Prize: One winner will receive an Oceans Dream Lil' Mess Dress  (US only) $32.00 retail value. Contest closes: December 14, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open to: US and Canada How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is hosted and managed by Melissa Perry Moraja of Melissa Productions. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Melissa(at)Melissaproductions(dot)com. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I received this product free in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not compensated in any way for my review. All opinions of this product are 100% my own.

TheO SmartBall Giveaway - Make Learning Easy and Fun!

Learning Made Fun

I am so excited to be hosting TheO SmartBall Giveaway - one of the hottest award-winning toys this holiday season! The winner of the giveaway will receive one TheO SmartBall (retail value $39.95). This educational and entertaining ball is for kids preschool to 5th grade. 

My kids and I had the opportunity to try out TheO Smartball and we gave it two thumbs up! It's a blast, especially with the app learning games! 

There are 8 free apps total to download and others available for purchase. We downloaded several free apps. Me being the frugal mom had to test it out before investing in more apps. There wasn't an app that my kids didn't have a blast playing with. My 10 year old daughters favorite was the Hot Potato app, while my three year olds favorite was Sing & Dance and ABC app. As for my 10 and 11 year old boys, they enjoyed throwing and tossing the ball around faster and faster to see how fast the songs could go on the app. I loved that it provided them with a really good workout! 

Overall this is one of the best toys for kids. It's educational! It's fun! And it allows them to get some physical exercise in while learning!

Below is a little bit more about TheO Smartball:

• Dr. Toy's annual guide – One of the 100 Best Children’s Products of 2014
• The National Parenting Center's prestigious Seal of Approval has been given to TheO Smartball! 

Active kids learn more and retain more of what they learn. With TheO SmartBall, kids learn while they play.
 
TheO SmartBall is a soft foam ball that uses revolutionary technology and your smart device to entertain and educate your kids. Our Apps offer a variety of games that get kids engaged mentally and have fun physically.
 
Download one of our entertaining and educational apps to your smart device, insert your device into TheO SmartBall (a tutorial on our website shows how), and then toss, roll, or shake the ball to make learning fun.

ENTER THEO SMARTBALL GIVEAWAY

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Yalmeh Glory Eye Bright Gel Brightening Eye Cream Product Review.

Hooray to a product that actually firms and tightens those ugly crows feet around the eyes!

I love the sun, but never realized how much damage it could do to my skin until I reached my 40's. And pollution isn't helping things out any better. Those fine line aging wrinkles around my eyes literally creeped in over night and boy would I like to see them disappear. 

I've been wanting to try an eye cream that not only helps soften (and eliminate) those fine lines, but also helps with puffiness caused my allergies! My allergies have been brutal since I moved to North Carolina. Well... a couple weeks ago I was fortunate to come across Yalmeh Glory Eye Bright Gel being offered on Tomoson.com review site! I jumped at the opportunity to test and review the product. 

Below is my experience!

It is an amazing product! It has a very light cucumber scent and actually feels cool when applied. It isn't greasy at all. And it absorbs into your skin much faster than a cream. For the past couple weeks, I've been applying Yalmeh Glory Eye Bright Gel before bed and once I wake up. I wash my face first, then apply it using a dabbed approach around my eyes. Immediately, I've noticed the skin around my eyes actually feel firmer like they are tightening on application. 

As for puffiness. I haven't noticed much reduction in that area yet. But tis' the season for really bad allergies and colds too. 

Overall, I really like this product and highly recommend giving it a try! This product isn't tested on any animals which I love. And it is made in an advanced FDA registered facility. 

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Type 1 Diabetes Medical Alert Bracelets Product Review

Type 1 Diabetes Medical Alert Bracelet

Since my 10 year old daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, we're always on the lookout for products that can make her life easier and safer. The Type 1 Diabetes Medical Alert Bracelet by Living the Dream Goods is a product that can alert a stranger to her disease in case of an emergency. It is made of silicone and is easy to take on and off without help. It also won't discolor your skin. What I loved about it is that it's light weight, easy to travel with, and bright! The words written on it are visible and easy to read. One side reads ALERT Type 1 Diabetes and if your rotate it the other side reads Insulin Dependent.

My 10 year old daughter wore it for a day and found that it caused a lot more attention to her type 1 disease than she wanted. Her friends continuously asked her about it after noticing the bracelet. As such, she has preferred not to wear it unless she is doing an activity that is of greater risk for her safety such as swimming or white water rafting.  She's more likely to experience hypoglycemia (blood sugar low) with these types of activities. 

Overall, we found the Type 1 Diabetes Medical Alert Bracelet to be useful, especially for traveling and vacations. We loved that it's durable, waterproof, and colorful! We've lost a couple expensive medical bracelets on trips. This package includes four, so you have a back-up if you lose one. Highly recommend if planning a vacation where you don't need the extra worry of losing or misplacing a medical alert bracelet.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

BPA Free Stemless Wine Glasses Product Review

I absolutely love these shatterproof BPA-free wine glasses by TaZa! No longer do I have to worry about having a glass of wine outdoors. These wine glasses are shatterproof! They also are light-weight. I've already washed them twice in my dishwasher and they've come out clear, without any watermarks.


These wine glasses are great for people with kids! I'm always so nervous using my glass wine glasses when my kids are around out of fear that they will knock it over, shatter the glass, and cut themselves. With these wine glasses, I no longer have to worry! I highly recommend checking these wine glasses out!

I actually made a video of my first experience using the wine glasses!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

DIY: Make Your Own Reptile and Amphibian Tank and Carrier

My 11 year old son loves the outdoors! With his love comes studying every little and many gross creatures. Last week he brought home a wild snake. After a call to Petsmart and sending them pictures, we determined the snake was non-venomous. This was what sparked me to make some changes and set rules for making sure his explorations were safe as he learned.

Exploring nature is such a wonderful thing for a child! And I love that my son wants to spend his time learning about all the little creatures that exist there. But over the past couple of years, I've found his hobby is starting to become a little costly. I've also found that my time is becoming less and less because I'm always helping him take care of his little creatures.

So two weeks ago I came up with a solution!

The following is what my 11 year old son agreed to:

• No living reptile, amphibian, insect etc that he brings home will become a pet
• He is only allowed one reptile, amphibian, insect to study at a time
• He has to wear rubber gloves before he touches any creature.
• He is not allowed to physically touch a creature until we have determined it is not dangerous or venomous. We live in Copperhead snake territory and also spiders that are venomous. 
• And lastly, we start using the resources within our house to do everything he needs to do, saving money

First thing we did was build a carrier (part-time study tank) for the reptiles, frogs, etc that he finds. The following is how to build your own tank for your child.

What You Will Need for Your DIY Reptile and Amphibian Tank and Carrier:

1. Medium sized plastic container with a lid. If you don't have one, you can purchase one at the Dollar Store or even Target very inexpensively.
   
2. Mesh. We have mesh from redoing our window screens. You can get mesh at Home Depot and Lowes.
   
3. Duct Tape. We used our daughters duct tape that she uses for arts and crafts. 
   

How to Build Your DIY Reptile and Amphibian Tank and Carrier:

1. Cut the inner part of the top of the container out.  
2. Measure the mesh where it not only covers the inner hole you cut out, but also overlaps the edge about 3 / 4 of an inch.
3. Using the duct tape, rip off strips of it and adhere the edge of the mesh to the outer area of the container's top. 

Now your child has a carrier and home for tiny little creatures they want to study at home. It's light and easy for your child to tote around outside as they explore nature.

Hot Wheels RC Street Hawk Remote Control Flying Car Product Review

My kids LOVED this toy! As a mom, I'm always looking for toys that are not only fun and educational, but also durable. I was very excited to have the opportunity to test one of the hottest toys this holiday season - Hot Wheels RC Street Hawk Remote Controlled Flying Car as a BzzAgent! Well... actually I had my 10 year old boy  and girl twins and 11 year old son test it for me. 

Checkout their YouTube Video below testing the product! It's amazing!  

Like most kids that get a new "amazingly" fun toy, each begged to play with it over and over again. It was amazing how you could remotely control it driving on the ground and then the next minute send it flying into the air. It was a little more difficult to control it when it was in the air, but it still was a blast! All three gave it two thumbs up!

This toy is a great toy for any boy, and even a girl! The age on the box stated that the toy was for people 8 yrs old and older. I actually think this toy is more geared for 10 years and older. I don't think my boys would have been careful enough with this toy at the age of 8 years old and the would have broken it within a few minutes. 

This toy is made of a foam like material and thin plastic parts. It's delicate in many ways. My boys thought it was pretty tough because they crashed it a few times. I'm not sure how many crashes this street hawk will be able to take. My gut says not many more. My last recommendation is that you also shouldn't fly it when it is windy. It is too hard to control and it will crash!

Overall this toy will keep your kids entertained (both boy and girl). I highly recommend it for this holiday season!

Hot Wheels Street Hawk Remote Control Flying Car

Available at Amazon, Walmart, Target

*As a Bzzagent, I was given this toy to review by Mattel for my honest review.

PRODUCT REVIEW: Ultra Lift Treatment [Advanced Anti-Aging Treatment]

Two thumbs up! I actually saw results within 3 weeks!

Product Description:
Foxbrim's Ultra Lift Treatment is a revolutionary anti-wrinkle and anti-aging facial product! It's been found to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improve skin tone, and stimulate collagen.


Packaging: The packaging is attractive. However, it is made out of a plastic material that is a little softer (bendable) than what I would have expected for a high-end facial product like this; especially one with Retinol. In the past, I've purchased facial creams in a solid plastic container that isn't bendable. This is the first that reminds me of the type of plastic a hairspray top is made out of.

Aroma: Doesn't have much of a scent which I don't mind. I prefer products with no scent to a very little scent. This way I'm not smelling it all night. 

My Experience: Very impressed with this anti-aging cream. I've been using it for a couple of weeks and my facial skin is already feeling tighter. I'm also noticing a few fine lines fading, which is a huge benefit to me! I have sensitive skin and so far this facial cream has not caused any rashes or reaction. I've been using it before I go to bed. I wash my face first with a facial cleanser and then apply Foxbrim's Ultra Lift Treatment. 

On suggestion I have is to be careful when you press the applicator piece. I've found a lot comes out when you push it down completely. I just started to press it halfway, so less comes out. 

I do recommend trying this product! I've experienced results in just a few weeks!

Available for purchase on Amazon!

Preparing My 10 Year Old Daughter with Type 1 Diabetes to Manage her Disease Independently

We did it! My 10 year old daughter, Madison, who has type one diabetes went to the movies, the park and out for pizza without anyone educated or trained (just prepped) in her disease for the very first time! And I learned a lot from this experience.

First, I learned that Madison needs to understand that when she eats, it takes about 2 hours before her blood glucose will start to go down. Of course there are exceptions to this rule such as she is running around. Typically when a child with type 1 diabetes eats, their blood glucose will go up and peak about 2 hours later and then start to go down and stabilize.

Yesterday, Madison called me after the movie to let me know that her blood glucose was 323. She had eaten lunch at Noon. Then she ate candy at 1:30 pm with a blood glucose of 256. Her blood glucose still hadn't peaked from lunch. So eating more sugar with a higher blood glucose will make her blood sugar go up higher. The 323 was expected. I told her give it an hour and her blood sugar will start to go down. She felt a lot better after she called me.

Second, I should have educated her friend's dad on who to call for an emergency such as 911 and me! I think it's also important to be aware of the Glucagon pen. It's like an Epipen and used if a person with type one diabetes experiences hypoglycemia and passes out.

The following is how my husband and I are preparing our daughter to become more independent. This is a life threatening disease and it isn't easy for us to let her go out an entire day without us.  For me to feel comfortable, I need to know that she is responsible enough to take care of a disease that has life threatening results if not managed properly.

• Prepare her medical / diabetes bag. In Madison's bag, we always have the following:
• Meter including finger pricker and test strips
• CGM (if she's not wearing it)
• Two 4 oz juices
• Container of Ritz peanut butter crackers
• Wipes to clean her fingers for an accurate testing
• Glucagon pen (for emergencies)
• Ketone strips
• Parents and doctors (endocrinologist) numbers
• and sometimes Glucose tablets. These don't work as fast for Madison, so we hardly use them.
• Check her blood glucose using a finger pricker, test strips and meter
• Administer insulin using a wireless meter, her pump and/or shots. We've just required Madison to know how to administer insulin using her pump because that is all she uses.
• Understand what to do (and how it feels) if their blood glucose is low (hypoglycemia). Every child is different, but when Madison is low - below 80 - she needs a 4 oz juice and a few peanut butter crackers. 
• Know what to do (and how it feels) if their blood sugar is too high (hyperglycemia). 
• Be able to test for ketones using ketone strips.
• Know that when their blood sugar is too high they shouldn't be eating carbs. They can still eat non-carbs (cheese, meat, celery, cucumbers, pickles). Once their blood sugar goes down to a good number (we like 180), they can have a carb again.
• Have a phone readily available. We let Madison borrow her brother's phone so she didn't have to keep asking her friend's dad. She texted me a few times and then called three times. It gave her peace of mind that I was there if she needed me. When we spoke, I had her answer her own questions versus me giving her the answers.

I would love to hear other ideas or suggestions for how to continue helping my daughter become more independent!

Other posts:

• Overprotective Mom Did It! My Type 1 Diabetes Girl Is Out At The Movies Without Me
• Managing Your Child's Type 1 Diabetes During Sports Tournament
• Diabetes - Differences Between Type 1 and Type 2 (Sept, 2013)Back to School Type 1 Diabetes Survival Tips for Parents (Aug, 2013)

Overprotective Mom Did It! My Type 1 Diabetes Girl Is Out At The Movies Without Me

My Girl With Type 1 Diabetes

I'm sitting at my computer nervously waiting for one text or call from Madison (my 10 year old daughter with type 1 diabetes) to let me know she's okay. I finally let her go to the movies and then out for pizza without me or her dad being there. It actually isn't that we need to be there. I always felt better if someone who was trained or well educated in her disease should be with her. Today, she's out without anyone who has been trained, and a dad who has only been briefly prepped on her complex and deadly disease.

Since she was diagnosed (November 4, 2011), my husband and I have attended every birthday party, athletic game, and school event she has been invited to. We have allowed her to go over friends houses without us, but with pretty strict rules to follow such as calling me when she was going to eat so I could confirm her carb count to insulin dosage, since the parent wasn't as well educated in that area. It just gave me peace of mind having her call me.

Waiting for My Sweetie to Come Home

But today, Madison is at the movies (Big Hero 6) and out for pizza with her friend and her friends family without me, and without having to call me. And YES, I AM WORRYING! Well...I actually am experiencing conflicting emotions right now. There is a part of me that is hoping she doesn't call or text me and she handles every high and low, every blood glucose check, and everything else with managing her disease on her own. This would be such a great accomplishment for her, giving her more freedom! But then there is a part of me that worries, that wants to know she's okay. AND I AM WORRIED.  I guess that's what comes with parenting and parenting a child who is living with this disease.

The movie started at 1:10 pm. It's now 1:35 pm and she hasn't needed to contact me, which is fantastic! But I hate wondering.

I do kind of feel bad. Madison asked if she could have popcorn, which I told her she couldn't. Popcorn is hard to measure and estimate an accurate carb count. As such I told her no. If she measured the popcorn wrong, she could experience hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. I was trying to prevent her from experiencing either right now. When her blood glucose is high, It comes with so many downsides like headaches, stomach aches, and not being able to focus. Even though she won't be eating popcorn, I did pack her two snack sized candy bars, a lollipop, and a mint. All that she knows the exact carb count for.

And for her lows, she has three juices (to treat her lows) and peanut butter crackers (to stabilize her blood sugar). I also borrowed my son's cell phone so she would able to contact me herself and not have to constantly ask her friends dad, if she did need to reach me.

I can't wait till she comes home to hear how the movie was and how everything went. This is a day I will always remember because it's the day where I felt comfortable enough that she could take care of her type 1 disease on her own without an educated adult nearby. It also is a day where she felt confident enough to do it without her dad or I there.

Forester's Tech Timeout $100 Sweepstakes for Families

Let's do it! Let's spend quality time with our kids by turning off our phones, putting away our eReaders and tablets, and shutting off our computers.

I love what this sweepstakes is trying to accomplish! Kids especially need a break from technology. Families could use some bonding time by playing a game outside together or pulling out one of your families favorite board games like HeadBandz or Monopoly or Apples to Apples!

ENTER THE FORESTERS TECH TIMEOUT SWEEPSTAKES

Sweepstakes ends December 4, 2014. Winners will be announced December 5, 2014!

PRODUCT REVIEW: Pro-15 Advanced Strength Probiotics for Digestive System and Colon Health

I was so excited to have the opportunity to try Pro-15 Advanced Strength Probiotics for Digestive System and Colon Health by Hyperbiotics! I've heard so many great things about this product and probiotics overall.

My Personal Experience:
I so wanted this product to work. But for some reason, I didn't have the same experience as them or other's who gave this product a 5 star review. I ended up a little more constipated than usual (which some people, like me, have experienced after using Probiotic type products). It may be the probiotics working and my digestive system getting back to normal. I have to admit, I've had a few digestive problems since the 1990's and have even seen specialists about it. My diagnosis was a wheat and gluten allergy (a common theme in the world today). 

I took this product for a month and most of the time, I've been crampy and felt bloated. Perhaps my body needs to use this product longer or a different dosage or a different form of it. I still think it's worth trying this product. If it works for you, hooray! I'm not giving up yet on probiotics. Too many people have had unbelievable success with it and I'm hoping eventually I'm one of those people.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

ASTROLOGY NEWS: Neptune, Jupiter and Uranus Changing Direction

Three major planets will be changing direction within a few weeks of one another, possibly triggering another shocking event that hits the hearts and homes throughout the world.


Neptune goes direct November 16, 2014. Neptune is the planet of dreams, illusions and fantasy. It also is the planet that increases the likelihood of flooding and hurricanes. This is a time period where your dreams can become a reality! With Neptune going direct in the sign of Pisces expect your intuition to be activated and your dreams to be remembered. Let your creative juices flow and don't forget to write down any ideas or insights you may have. They may prove to be valuable leads not too far down the road.

Jupiter goes retrograde December 8, 2014. When Jupiter goes retrograde, take a step back and reflect on what you have accomplished. Take a look at where you are and what you are working on. Then  start putting a strategy in place to make any necessary changes so when Jupiter goes direct April 8, 2015, you'll be ready to move forward in a bigger and better way!

Uranus goes direct December 21, 2014.  This is the unpredictable planet. You never know what really will happen when Uranus's energy starts to change direction. This planet represents change, invention, and revolution. It can create big explosions, cause power outages, hacking, retaliation, and major discoveries. With it in Aries, the sign of war and new beginnings, I'm sure we'll be hearing something BIG on the news. This planets energy starts a week or two before it changes direction. Its greatest impact will be a day or two before and even can continue a day or two after.

PRODUCT REVIEW: Valentia Even Glow Vitamin C 20% Serum

When I was asked to review Valentia’s Even Glow Serum, I was a little hesitant because I have sensitive skin. I've tried a few products from Lancome and Estee Lauder (such as Visionnaire) and ended having an allergic reaction. For over a year, I had to see a dermatologist to clear up my skin. After reading this products natural ingredients, I thought I would give it a try and I am so glad I did!

Packaging: The packaging is very attractive with it's white box, gold trim and black font. Written on the front of the box is the products benefits. The line that read reduces wrinkles and fine lines immediately caught my eye.

Aroma: When I opened the darkish glass bottle, I immediately got whiff of a citrusy aroma - a scent you may smell at a spas. This product smells fantastic! Almost has a tint of an orange smell. Not overwhelming at all. 

First impression: I first applied it before I went to bed. Immediately upon applying, my facial skin felt soft. The product itself has a silky, smooth feeling to it. It quickly absorbed into my skin.

After a few weeks use: I can't say enough about this product. I didn't break out or have any reaction from this product. I did mention my concern to the company initially and they said to use a little and increase every few days. I did what they said and experienced no skin rash problems. My skin isn't dry. I can already see a difference in my skin tone, where it appears to be evening out.

I highly recommend Valentia Even Glow Vitamin C Serum! ($35.00 on Amazon)

** I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Holiday Giveaway Kindle Fire HD 7" Kids Edition Tablet

About the Kindle Fire HD Kids Edition 7" Tablet

I was pretty excited to see this pretty cool new product available through Amazon. This is a HOT PRODUCT! The all-new Kindle Fire HD Kids Edition Tablet also comes with 1 year of Amazon FreeTime Unlimited (which means kids get unlimited access to 5,000 books, movies, TV shows, educational apps, and games—at no additional cost!). It includes a quad-core processor for great performance, a vivid HD display, front and rear-facing cameras, and Dolby Audio PLUS comes with a Kid-Proof Case, and a 2-year worry-free guarantee - if they break it, return it and Amazon replaces it for free. No questions asked! Um... can you say Christmas present?  

Fabulous Sponsors (Bloggers)

Thank you to the following bloggers who are sponsoring this giveaway. Please consider visiting at least one or two and thanking them personally. Mother Daughter Book Reviews Enter Here Canada Lavender Likes, Loves, Finds and Dreams I am a Reader Addicted Readers Crystal's Tiny Treasures A Bit Bookish Home on Deranged Book, Reviews and Giveaways Tales of a Bookworm BeachBoundBooks A Leisure Moment  

Fabulous Sponsors (Authors and Publishers)

A big thank you to all of the participating authors and publishers who are sponsoring this giveaway. Below you will find their fabulous books Please consider purchasing one, two or more books that interest you as a "Thank You" to these generous sponsors. Some books are free, others only 99 cents!
                                                       

Giveaway Details

Prize: One winner will receive either a new Kindle Fire HD Kids Edition 7" Tablet (US only) a $200 Amazon gift card (International) or $200 PayPal cash prize (International) Contest closes: November 30, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open to: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. NOTE: When the winner is chosen, ALL of their entries will be verified. If ANY of the winner's entries is invalid, they will be disqualified and a new winner will be chosen.a Rafflecopter giveaway