As I searched for "Must Haves" for Babies & Toddlers this Holiday Season, one product intrigued me more than the others. We have battled all types of sleep problems with my toddler: Nightmares, Bedtime Stalling, Playing when he's supposed to be sleeping. You name it, we experienced it.

Years and years ago, we bought glow-in-the-dark star stickers for my daughter to gaze at while she sleeps. They were a big hit striking bedtime snuggling and pretend play as astronomers. Momma Findings has found a toy that goes beyond fading stickers, transforming your child's bedroom into a soothing starlight wonder.

Cloud B - Twilight Ladybug



About the Ladybug Nightlight:

Float away in peaceful slumber under a beautiful star-filled sky. Twilight Ladybug makes bedtime fun and helps ease children’s fear of the dark by projecting a starry night sky onto bedroom ceiling and walls. Stars and Ladybug shell illuminate in three magical colors to help children sleep easier. The perfect sleep companion for children of all ages!

Features:

* Full night sky projection on ceiling and walls
* Three color options: Sapphire Blue, Emerald Green & Ruby Red
* Shell illuminates for a calming nightlight effect
* Auto shut-off — 45 minute sleep timer
* Twilight Ladybug Star Guide to help identify constellations
* Includes Twilight Ladybug story and adoption certificate
* Three AAA batteries
* Dimensions: 14" long, 5.5" tall
* Ideal for ages 2 to adult

What We Liked:

• Lighted Stars: Lets face it, there's nothing more comforting than falling asleep underneath stars. When I was a child it seemed so magical. Stars are projected onto the ceiling and surround walls making it feel like you're literally outside underneath a Starry Sky. Very soothing!

• Colors: Adding to the Starry Sensation are the colors. There are three buttons to change the color to Red, Blue, or Green. Perfect way to change the dynamic of the night or teaching colors to younger children. My son has learned blue and green thanks to our Twilight Ladybug.

• Automatic Shut-off: The ladybug actually shuts off after 45 minutes, helping your child drift off to sleep. There is no need to sneak into their room to shut it off, saving the "Wake-Up Headache" and battery life.

• Shell Lights Up: When you look up onto your ceiling you see lighted stars, however, the actual shell illuminates as well.

• Easy to Carry: The Ladybug is very light and easy to carry from room to room or when traveling for the Holidays. I know my toddler gets nervous and scared sleeping away from home, so having the comfort of a Starry Sky and his new Ladybug Best Friend is a life-saver.

• Star Guide: In the box, there is a Star Guide included, which helps you, as the Parent, strike up the conversation about constellations! As you tuck your children in you have a soothing atmosphere, yet educational identifying each grouping of stars. You never know, they might want to be an Astronomer when they grow up!

• The Moon: This seems so simple, but when my toddler turns his Ladybug on the first thing he looks for is the moon. Sometimes it hides behind the ceiling fan and it's fun to move the Ladybug around to better see our favorite constellations and The Moon.

Momma Improvements and Suggestions:

• Hard Shell: I didn't realize my toddler would be so attached to his Twilight Ladybug. He sleeps with him, cuddles with him, and often naps with him. It would be great to have a soft shell making it more comfy for cuddles such as this.

• No Handle: Something I didn't think about till a few days ago, is the lack of a handle. You'd think Why do we need one? If it's easy to carry? Well this is why:



If you look closely, our sweet Ladybug has now lost it's antennae. My toddler carries his bug around using the antennae because it sticks out like handle. Now our Twilight Ladybug has to undergo surgery to fix the missing antennae on the top of his head (if we can find it).

• Light Brightness: Each color that displays the stars is clear and bright, except for the Ruby Red. It seems faded compared to the other colors, making it the last option when we are star watching.

• Time of the Shut-off: I love the fact that the light shuts off after 45 minutes, however, it would be awesome if there was a switch that helps you set the amount of time before shut off. I know with us we go through sleep patterns. My toddler is developing at such a fast rate that his sleep phases change throughout the year. A few months ago, before the Daylight Savings Time change, it took him longer to fall asleep, where we would need longer time with our Ladybug light. Now that it gets darker faster, he falls asleep more quickly where we only need about 15 minutes of starry light.

All in all, the Constellation Night light by Cloud B, has been an amazing addition to our family helping my toddler fall sleep without fear and soothing his anxiety of being in his own big boy bed. We're so impressed we added the Twilight Ladybug to our 2009 Holiday Gift Guide as a perfect Christmas Gift for Babies & Toddlers.

Buy It

To purchase your own Twilight Ladybug visit the Cloud B website or click here to find a store near you. Night Lights retail for $34.00 plus shipping & handling and are available in Ladybug, Turtle, and Sea Turtle.

This post made possible by Cloud B who sent us the Twilight Ladybug Night Light. Opinions here are solely my own and have not been wavered by the products I received or compensated in any other way.

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Want to get away?

Yeah.

It's not a commercial for me today, since yesterday I DID want to get away, somewhere far away, where no one knows my name.

As a Mom, I sometimes feel under appreciated, but it was different yesterday. That under-appreciation felt as if I was a doormat, each child cleaning their feet on my very weary body, my husband dusting off his work boots on my weakening soul.

After a day of sweeping, mopping, laundry, dishes, cooking, and cleaning out our SUV, I relished the 5 minutes of quiet, as my husband took our three children to the corner store. My daughter had Tooth-Fairy money and wanted to buy an ice-cream for her and her brothers. When they returned I asked, "Did you bring me something?" Their answer was so cold and uncaring as they said, "Dad said we didn't have to get you anything, but you got a few minutes to yourself."

I thought to myself A few minutes to clean up the dinner dishes doesn't really count as relaxation and then a flashback went streaking through my head from last Christmas. The Christmas I woke up and everybody's stockings were full ............ except mine.

Unappreciated yeah.

Tired Yeah.

The music that runs through my head today is an older song, but new all over again as I contemplated my "Get-Away" from Motherhood yesterday. It's called Boston and what I love so much about it is how heartbreaking this sweet girl is, how she feels like nobody else understands her... or worse... even cares.

You don't know me and you don't wear my chains

This line can be spoken to just about anyone you feel can never fathom what you go through on a day to day basis, however, I take comfort in knowing that there is One that does know me.

One who shed his blood when the crown of thorns was placed on his weary head.
One who was beaten and forced to carry MY cross on that day.
One who's last words were Forgive them, for they know not what they do.
One who was so beautiful and pure.
One who died on the cross and bore MY sins.

He wears my chains every day and today, as life keeps me moving with mundane tasks, I can take heart knowing it wont' always be like this. The kids will grow up, marry, and move away. I'll wish there was laughter down the hallway and hand prints on the TV.

One day I can face The One who took my sins away, saved me, and loved me through it all, a place where everyone knows my name.

Augustana- Boston
Album: All The Stars And Boulevards

In the light of the sun, is there anyone? Oh it has begun...
Oh dear you look so lost, eyes are red and tears are shed,
This world you must've crossed... you said...

You don't know me, you don't even care, oh yeah,
She said
You don't know me, and you don't wear my chains... oh yeah,

Essential yet appealed, carry all your thoughts across
An open field,
When flowers gaze at you... they're not the only ones who cry
When they see you
You said...

You don't know me, you don't even care, oh yeah,
She said
You don't know me, and you don't wear my chains... oh yeah,

She said I think I'll go to Boston...
I think I'll start a new life,
I think I'll start it over, where no one knows my name,
I'll get out of California, I'm tired of the weather,
I think I'll get a lover and fly em out to Spain...
I think I'll go to Boston,
I think that I'm just tired
I think I need a new town, to leave this all behind...
I think I need a sunrise, I'm tired of the sunset,
I hear it's nice in the Summer, some snow would be nice... oh yeah,

Boston... where no one knows my name... yeah
Where no one knows my name...
Where no one knows my name...
Yeah Boston...
Where no one knows my name.

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With Thanksgiving behind us, households everywhere are busy shopping, traveling, and enjoying family. We had a wonderful Turkey feast full of laughs, love, and pumpkin pie, but the excitement comes this weekend when I head to the Houston Ballet to see the Nutcracker with four women I love: My Mom, Sister, Niece, and Daughter.

It's events like this that really bring the Magic of Christmas into our home and our hearts. That's why I'm happy to introduce you to two Christmas Books, by Scholastic, that will warm the hearts of both you and your children. What better way to create memories to cherish?

About The Christmas Magic:



Far, far North, when the nights are longest and the stars shine brightest, Santa begins to prepare for his big night of giving. He gathers his reindeer, feeds them parsnips and berries, and polishes his bells and his sled. Then lovingly, he chooses toys for every child in the world. For Santa loves them all, and he knows what each child at heart wants most. Then, with the thrum of magic that makes reindeers fly, he spreads the Christmas joy and warmth throughout the world--as he always has -- and always will until the end of time.

About The Nutcracker and the Mouse King:



In this gorgeous telling of The Nutcracker, Gail de Marcken brings E.T.A. Hoffmann's richly enchanting world to life. With beautifully detailed illustrations, the story of THE NUTCRACKER AND THE MOUSE KING will become an instant classic . It's a story readers of all ages will delight in.

What We Liked:

• Hard Cover: The book is hardback, which we love. Our two older children (ages 6 and 7) have learned how to take care of their books, however, we have a 2-year-old who is still learning. With special Holiday books, we like to have them sturdy to withstand "The Toddler" and being packed away from one year to the next.

• Magical Colors: Nothing says "Magical" to me more than the mixture of Blue, Silver, & White. The cover of The Christmas Magic, itself screams READ ME. My children merely saw the cover and HAD to know how they can experience what was inside this story.

• Memory Maker: Yup. I said it. I'm a sucker for Holiday Books. We have an extensive library dedicated just to Christmas, but books provide so many awesome memories for my children, it's hard for me to invest money into something that will fade by the end of the day. These books and titles last a lifetime with sweet memories of reading by the dim lights of the Christmas Tree or the edge of the bed.

• Size: These two titles are bigger than they look! The pages were easily seen from across the room and when we snuggle we all help holding it, bringing us that much closer.

• Life Events: As I mentioned before, we're heading to see The Nutcracker at the Houston Ballet this weekend. A perfect way to help us get prepared is reading The Nutcracker and the Mouse King. My daughter relates this book to the magic and excitement of the Ballet and Christmas.

This is usually where I insert my Momma Improvement, but not today folks. These are amazing Christmas stories that are perfect for bedtime stories or gift giving for the entire family!

Buy It

The Nutcracker and the Mouse King retails for $18.99, while The Christmas Magic can be purchased for $16.99 at Scholastic's Online Store.

WIN IT!

Thanks to our friends at Scholastic, two lucky Momma Findings readers will win one of two prize packs with both The Nutcracker and the Mouse King and The Christmas Magic books.

How to Enter:

Required Entry:

Tell me, in the comment section, what you do to make Holiday memorable for your children. Are there specific books you read, activities you do, or events you look forward to?

Extra Entry Options:

- 3 Extra Entries if you blog about how you make Holidays memorable and link back to this post. Leave 3 separate comments with the url to your post.

- 2 Extra Entries Add the Momma Findings 2009 Holiday Gift Guide button (on your left, complete with html copy/paste code) to your blog sidebar. Leave two separate comments stating you have, along with your blog url.

- Sign up to be an email subscriber right there on the right side

- Follow Momma Findings on Facebook Networked Blogs.

- Follow Momma Findings and My Sippy Cup Runneth Over (my personal blog) on Google Friends.

- Follow me on Twitter (@Sarann) and send out a Tweet linking to both this contest and replying to @Sarann. Leave a comment with the URL link to your Tweet.

- Tell me your thoughts about my 2009 Holiday Gift Guide by leaving a comment on that post. Once you do, come back here post a separate comment stating you did.


Contest starts today November 27th - December 5th Midnight Central Time and open to US residents only. Leave each entry in separate comments. You don't have to be a blogger to enter, but please leave a valid email address for contact purposes.

**CONTEST NOW EDED**

Congrats to Deb K and Shop Nannies! Check your inbox on how to claim your prize

This post made possible by Scholastic who sent us The Nutcracker and the Mouse King and The Christmas Magic books. Opinions here are solely my own and have not been wavered by the products I received or compensated in any other way.

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With the Holiday Season among us, my children are steadily coming to me with ideas of what they want for Christmas. It's really interesting because everything they have chosen is something we can all do as a family.

One particular item that's ALWAYS on our list EVERY year is a Building Set for kids. Last year is was wooden blocks, this year we're into building complex structures such as a Ferris Wheel, Airplanes, and even a Merry-Go-Round.

K'NEX is the leading brand in building sets for children and helps parents, such as me, interact with our children, inspire creativity, and build self confidence. Thanks to Team Mom, we had the opportunity to check out the K'NEX 400PC Tub and the Sesame Street Neighborhood Collection Building Sets.

About the K'NEX 400PC Tub:

Loaded with 400 parts, including bricks, for lots of open-ended fun and endless building and play opportunities! Includes instructions and ideas for 20 models or use your imagination to dream up your own creations. The convenient storage tub means there is always a place to put your parts or take the fun with you wherever you go! For ages 7+.

What We Liked:

• Storage Tub: Right away, I'm ecstatic that it comes in a storage bin. I can tell you how many times I've had to pick up the blocks we bought last year, that DIDN'T come in a storage bin. This gives us a clear place to store the 400PC set, along with other sets that my children are begging me to buy. It's also really easy to carry when traveling to Grandma's house.



• Instruction Book: I have two types of children. One is very orderly, structured, and "By the Book". He wants instructions and thrives on direction. The fact that the building set comes with a book telling you EXACTLY what pieces to use for particular models is awesome.

• Creative Flexibility: As I said before, one child is very orderly, but the other is so "Fly by the seat of her pants" type of girl. She doesn't want instructions, but instead wants to build the abstract structure she has already built in her head. K'NEX lets her do that giving us endless building possibilities!



• Movement: This set is our very first "movable" building toy, meaning there are wheels for cars, propeller on airplanes, ferris wheel and merry-go-round's spin. This gives us the opportunity to bring our creations into real life!

• Works with Other Brands: If you've invested countless hours and money on other brands of building sets, such as Lego, you can easily merge K'NEX to your existing collection.

• Made in the U.S.A: I've said it countless times here at Momma Findings. We are BIG supporters in US companies. We can now add K'NEX to our growing list of American Made brands like Label Daddy and Weil Baby.

What We Didn't Like:

• Small Pieces: The pieces are really small compared to the bigger blocks/sets we're used to. We were really surprised at just how tiny each piece is, posing a chocking hazard for younger children. We have a two year old who still puts things in his mouth, but with proper supervision he's learning it's more fun to build with the pieces instead of eating them.

About the Sesame Street Police Car Set:


Your child can build the NEW smaller scale police officer Elmo - dressed in his blue uniform and police cap - along with his police car! A "Play & Learn" activity sheet filled with educational fun for parent and child, plus additional building ideas, is also included. This 19-piece building set pairs perfectly with the Neighborhood Collection Police Station Building Set. Look for all the Neighborhood Collection Building Sets so your child can build his own SESAME STREET Neighborhood!

What We Liked:

• Big Pieces: Loved that each piece is sized for small hands. My toddler didn't have any trouble building his set while sister and brother built their Ferris Wheel next to him.



• Sesame Street Characters: Let's face it, we all love Sesame Street, right? My toddler is in love with Elmo and Big Bird, so it gave him that extra encouragement to build and practice his fine motor skills. Individual Sets include either Elmo, Ernie, or Cookie Monster.

• Movable Parts: The Police car comes with actual wheels making it easier to "push" the care around the house during imaginative play.

• Coordinating Sets: Kids and parents can build their very own Neighborhood with four different sets to buy- Ice Cream Truck Building Set, Police Car Set, 1-2-3 Brownstone Building Set, and the Police Station Set.

• Play and Learn Activity Sheet: The set comes with a sheet of ideas for parents and children such as, facts related to the theme of the set, activities to learn to count, recognize colors and identify shapes.



What We Didn't Like:

• No Storage Tub: Seriously, this is a big decision buying factor for me. If I don't have a good sturdy place to store blocks, legos, K'NEX, etc. then we probably won't buy it, unless we already have a place to store the pieces.



In review, both K'NEX Building Sets are the perfect way to stimulate your child's creativity and imagination. They also help with fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and encourages thinking and problem-solving skills. In fact, we were so impressed by the 400PC tub, we included it in our 2009 Holiday Gift Guide as a a perfect gift idea for boys ages 6-12.

Buy It

K'NEX Building Sets can be purchased at Target, Wal-Mart, and Toys R Us. The 400PC tub has a suggested retail price of $20.99, while the Sesame Street Neighborhood Collection can be found for the suggested retail price of $9.99-$19.99.

Win It!

Now you have the chance to win $1,000 worth of K'NEX Building Sets and be featured on the KNEX.com website. All you have to do is make a video that showcases your child's K'NEX building skills and features your child building with select K'NEX products. Official rules and guidelines can be found at Knex.com.

This post made possible by Team Mom and K'NEX who sent us the 400PC tub and Sesame Street Police Car Set. Opinions here are solely my own and have not been wavered by the products I received or compensated in any other way.

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Imagine this HUGE Cinnamon Roll literally "rolling" up your driveway. I had a fun blog opportunity to check out Corner Bakery's catering menu. Be on the look out for all the fun details at MommaFindings.com next week, but for now.... it's okay to drool.



For more Wordless Wednesday's head over to A Daily Dose of Toni, 5 Minutes for Mom, Keeper of the Cheerios, and 7 Clown Circus.

Link Up YOUR Wordless Wednesday:



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As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.
Proverbs 27:17

If you've been around My Sippy Cup Runneth Over from the beginning, you already know that we've moved around alot. This blog started as soon as I moved to North Carolina, got me through tough times in Tennessee, and then brought me back to the place of my roots, Texas.

During our travels, I found myself in a place of adaptation. With determination, I found Play Groups, Bible Studies, Book Clubs, and Dinner Clubs. Nothing was going to stop me from making my new city a home.

Thinking about it all, brings back memories of one sweet friend, Nicole. She was one of the first people I met at the park. With a son my son's age and one on the way, I just knew we could be close.

After that day, we talked on the phone like school girls, laughing about our day, talking about Motherhood, Marriage, and our past. We met for coffee and even made trips to our favorite store, Target, just because. I thanked God that she was there at a time where my husband's work hours were long, my children were young, and my sanity seemed transparent.

Back then, I had no idea what friendship really meant. I had friends in High School, but I was a child, a child who married at a very young age (20). Here I am in adulthood and don't know how to be a friend, but I was willing to give my best effort.

Months later, I'm walking through the hallway of a hospital, on my way to see the precious baby Nicole has brought into the world. I threw her baby shower, but somehow the only thing I remember about it was the one gift I so-carefully picked for her sweet baby. I didn't want to buy diapers, booties, or clothes, but instead opted for a Bible.

I know it wouldn't help during those middle-of-the-night feedings, however, a Bible was all I felt this sweet family needed. I carefully wrote a message inside, signed my name, and with my hands on the cover of this Pink Bible, I prayed.

For this unborn Child
Prayed for her Mother
Prayed for her Brother
Prayed for her Father
Prayed for her Family
Prayed for her Soul
Prayed for her Health
Prayed for her Well-Being
Prayed for her Salvation
Prayed for her Childhood Years
Prayed for her Life

That's all I knew to do.

So, the day I realized my friendship with Nicole was over, it broke my heart that I wouldn't be in this Child's life. After the hours I prayed over her and that Bible, it broke my heart in two. I continued to pray for this family, agonizing over what I had done wrong, what I could do to fix it, and how I could ever bring myself to be close to another friend again.

About a year passed when I met the next group of women that would influence my life as a young Mother. These women would hold me close, pray with me, laugh with me, and cry with me. They taught me what real friendship means and, most importantly, how to do it.

We have since moved back to Texas after years of friendship making and I'm close to my family. I see my Mom and my sister all the time and it feels safe not to HAVE to build another friendship from scratch, however, I definitely wouldn't mind widening my circle of friends.

I was at Joyce Meyer Conference a few weeks ago and I reached into my purse to get my Purple Bible. This was a special gift my husband bought for me when I attended my first MOMS Bible Study with Jean Stockdale. This was my first Bible Study and I didn't know what to expect. I was scared and excited, but most of all thrilled that my sweet friend was with me............ Nicole.

Pictures of her sweet family ran through my head and then I felt a buzz at my feet from my phone.

A Facebook Message.

From Nicole.

Thanking me for the gift I gave her daughter years ago. She's in Sunday School class now and wanted a Bible to take for AWANA. Nicole searched through her memory box and found the Pink Bible I shed prayers upon that night.

Kendall is her name and I've prayed for her before the world even met her.



A gift I thought wouldn't be much help during those baby years, has come full swing, but little did I know God's intention was not only to give a gift to this child, but to me.

My Gift has been abundant.
A lesson in how to love unselfishly.
A grown Faith in knowing His plan is perfect.... With Everything.
A comfort in His love for me and the people he brings into my life.

Friendships are brought into your life, only for a moment. God chooses these people to influence your heart, but, I feel, He also plans the day we are to let them go and enjoy the journey that has yet to come.

This post inspired by the Bryant Family, whom I've never stopped praying for.



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God is Great.

Church is hard.

I know you must read that and think she's just not doing it right. You might be right, but in my Christian Walk, I've learned there is so much heartache in Church family.

We've all been there and if you haven't, then you are greatly blessed not to endure the pain that comes from your very own, someone who you've always believed would be there in time of happiness and sadness, someone who kneeled on the floor and prayed with you countless times, someone who you felt was a "God Given" friend made just for you.

God is Perfect.

Church is not.

I understand that, but after such circumstance it's hard to trust again. I had to, literally, pray for months to step foot into another church again. Personally, it would be a great beginning... new church, new town, new people.

Imperfect People.

Just like me.

So, this weekend I walked by Faith, without sight, to find a Church Home for our family. With three small children, it's not easy. One is crying because, well... he just does that. The other runs straight into her classroom, excited, full of Joy and ready to build foundations of friendship, the third... let's just say he stayed with us in Big Church. To his credit, he did perfect... flipping through his Bible, following along, and singing during worship.

We left the Service with an open heart for God, with encouragement that we are healing, we CAN find another Church home. The incident that follows, once we arrived in the Children's Wing, made me "curl up in a ball" again.

For now, I can't speak of what exactly happened because I have Faith that it can all be corrected, forgiveness will be asked and accepted, and my understanding of just how "imperfect" a church can be will be broadened.

So, on this Music Monday, I dwell on what Natalie Grant sings in my ear Lift up your heart, be amazed, be changed by a Perfect God.

Church will never be perfect.

People will never be perfect.

Circumstances will never be perfect,

But My God is and that's all the comfort my little heart needs.

Natalie Grant - Perfect People
Album: Relentless

Never let him see you when your breaking
Never let him see you when you fall
Thats How We Live
And Thats How We Try

Tell The world you've got it all together
You never let him see whats underneath
We cover it up
with the crooked smile
but it only lasts for a little while

(chorus)
there's no such thing as perfect people
there's no such thing as a perfect life
so come as you are, broken and scarred
lift up your heart and be amazed, and be changed
by a perfect god
yeaaa

Suddenly its like a weight is lifted
when you hear the words that you are loved
he knows where you are
and were you've been
and you never have to go there again

(chorus)

Who lived, and died, to give you life
to heal our inperfections
so look up, and see love, and let grace be enough

There's no such thing as perfect people
YEAAA
There's no such thing as a perfect life
So come as you are, broken and scarred
lift up your heart and be amazed and be changed
by a perfect god
by a perfect god
by a perfect god
yyeaaa
by a perfect god
be changed by a perfect god
be changed

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The last few years we have lived miles and miles away from family. The Holidays were extra hard on me because I felt pressured to "do it all" for my children and husband. You know, make amazing memories they'll carry with them when the leave to college. This year, we've moved back to our hometown and will be celebrating with most of our loved ones and feeling quite grateful for our blessings, but how can we show them?

Well, I found a really awesome Thanksgiving Craft that will show everyone around the "Turkey Filled" table just how grateful you are for each one of them.



With the whole family together, Thanksgiving is the perfect time to look back and celebrate the year's achievements. Whether it's an after-dinner gathering in the living room or a powwow around a backyard fireplace, it's nice to do this with a bit of ceremony -- and these commemorative scrolls add a special flourish to the festivities.

Ask each family member for their nominations -- and be sure everyone gets an award, whether it's "best haircut of the year" or "toughest survivor of a home renovation."

Total Time Needed: 1-2 Hours

Materials:

* 12- by 12-inch sheets of scrapbook paper
* Marker
* Glue gun
* Sticks
* Small pinecones or acorns
* Ribbon or raffia

Instructions

1. Cut the sheets of scrapbook paper in half to measure 6 by 12 inches. In the middle of each half sheet, write the award and the winner's name using a marker.

2. Use a glue gun to affix 2 sticks to the scroll's top and bottom.

3. Glue small pinecones or acorns to the ends of the sticks for decoration. Roll the scroll and tie it with ribbon or raffia.

Want to put a sweet Twist on the Turkey Day awards? I suggest you give a "big award" to the most positive influential family member this year and present them with a gift.

What other Thanksgiving crafts do you guys do every year?

How do you show your family just how grateful you are for them on this special family time?

This post made possible by Disney Family Fun, where you can find the Turkey Day Awards showcased along with more Thanksgiving activities.

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I'm proud to announce that we have debuted our 2009 Holiday Gift Guide at Momma Findings!

We're letting all of you guys in on what's hot for Babies, Toddlers, Preschoolers, Girls, Boys, the Entire Family, and my favorite category......... Family Friendly Gaming! Grab up some ideas for shopping this Holiday Season and enter to win some of the cool giveaways we'll be listing in the coming weeks.

Here at My Sippy Cup Runneth Over we're celebrating the Gift Guide because it marks the start of Holiday Recipes, Crafts, Ideas, VLOGS, and much, much, more! I strive to keep all product reviews separate from this blog due to personal reasons, however, I'm ecstatic to start my Holiday Fun-Filled posts around here.

What better way than to start with the shopping!

-Have you started your Holiday Shopping?
-Do you plan to brave Black Friday?
-Due to the Economy are you cutting back this year?

I searched high and low for great Gift Ideas that I posted at Momma Findings, but I'm sure there are more great ideas out there that I might have missed.

I want to see YOUR Gift Guides to kick off my Holiday Posts. Link up here folks:



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We're gearing up for the Holidays here at Momma Findings with our Holiday Gift Guide debut. In the coming weeks, you'll see reviews and giveaways of several of those Gift ideas, helping all of you decide what to buy your sweet ones this year.

As a gaming family, Momma Findings has compiled an exciting list of Family Friendly Gaming options from Nintendo DS games, to game accessories, and Wii games that will thrill even the YOUNGEST in the family!

Today, I'm itching to let you guys in on one of our favorite games for the Nintendo DS:

Petz Nursery Nintendo DS Game



About the Game

In Petz Nursery, players can care for and bond with a variety of the cutest newborn animals.

Features

Take care of lots adorable baby petz. Give them milk, keep them clean and warm, and help them grow.

Build relationships with your petz as you witness their most memorable moments, and influence their personality.

As you progress, unlock more exotic baby animals, like tigers, polar bears, and pandas. Then you can watch them play together – such as a baby puppy and polar bear.

Send your baby petz from Petz Nursery to Petz Dogz Talent Show and Hamsterz Superstarz wirelessly to continue to watch them grow.

What We Liked:

• Variety of Animals: Other games give you the ability to take care of one type of pet, Petz Nursery has a variety! You start off taking care of one, however, as your learn to be a Petz caregiver, you unlock more! Our favorite is still the Lab!

• Lifelong Skills: My daughter is learning how to take care of a pet and having fun while doing it! We discuss what would happen if we didn't feed or play with our pet and how it affects his/her wellbeing. She's learning and understanding how it feels developing a reltionship where she's in the position of caregiver as she witnesses her pet grow and develop.

• Fun Activities: It's so fun to play games with your Petz, however, our favorite if feeding and preparing their food. My daughter and I got a kick out of Lab not wanting her bottle because we weren't holding it right.

• Cute Factor: It has to be said. Each Pet in Petz Nursery comes to you as a baby. Even my 2 year old was giggling when he saw how cute they are, especially when your baby isn't happy. She turns away pointing her "end" at you. Definitely makes us want to keep ALL our Petz happy!

• Works With Other Games: You have the ability to send your Petz Nursery baby to other DS games such as Hamsterz Superstarz(which we don't have yet, daughter was not happy about that) and Petz Dog Talent Show.

• Petz Give Back: New Petz games, including Petz Nursery, is part of Petz Sharing and Caring Month with ASPCA and famous pop band Honor Society. Kids and their parents can also go to the Petz Cause House on ubiworld.com,to play a variety of Petz mini-games and earn “pointz” to show their support for the ASPCA in protecting animals. From now through January 4, 2010, the total number of pointz that visitors earn will be announced weekly in the Cause House and to further support teaching kids about responsible pet care, Ubisoft’s Petz will donate funds directly to the ASPCA. How awesome is that?!

• Rated E: Petz Nursery is rated E for Everyone, which means it's family friendly! My children are young ages 7 and under so this is a perfect gaming option.

What We Didn't Like:

• Direction: As we first started there weren't clear instructions on what to do, where to go, and how to do it. For younger children, such as my 6-year-old daughter, it started off in frustration and confusion. Momma loves playing DS games, especially with my children, so I was happy to sit with her and "figure" out the game. Once she learned exactly HOW to do some of the activities and what was expected of her, she was happy to be the "sole caregiver" pushing me to watch on the sidelines. :)

In summary, we really took to playing Petz Nursery! Spending family time together and teaching our children the importance of responsibility all in a Nintendo DS game! Not only that, but it's a perfect Christmas Gift for girls 6 and up.

Buy It

Petz games are now available on store shelves in North America. They’re rated E for Everyone at a suggested retail price of $29.99 each (Nintendo DS and DSi). You know I love saving money so I've got the "budget scoop" for you guys! For $27.99 you can purchase Petz Nursery at Amazon.com! Sweet.

To learn more about Petz Games head over to Ubisoft's Parents Corner, where you'll find a list of family friendly games, where to buy, tips on ratings, and more!

WIN IT!

Thanks to our friends at Ubisoft, one lucky Momma Findings reader will win a Petz Nursery DS game just in time for Christmas!

How to Enter:

Required Entry:

Tell me, in the comment section, how you teach your child responsibility with their Pets. What feature from Petz Nursery do you think would be most beneficial when caring for the pets in YOUR home?

Extra Entry Options:

- 3 Extra Entries if you blog about Petz Sharing and Caring Month with ASPCA & UbiWorld.com. All the info you need is under Petz Give Back above. Make sure you link to both UbiWorld.com and this post. Leave a 3 separate comments with the url to your post.

- 2 Extra Entries Add the Momma Findings 2009 Holiday Gift Guide button (on your left, complete with html copy/paste code) to your blog sidebar. Leave two separate comments stating you have, along with your blog url.

- Sign up to be an email subscriber right there on the right side

- Follow Momma Findings on Facebook Networked Blogs.

- Follow Momma Findings and My Sippy Cup Runneth Over (my personal blog) on Google Friends.

- Follow me on Twitter (@Sarann) and send out a Tweet linking to both this contest and replying to @Sarann. Leave a comment with the URL link to your Tweet.

- Tell me your thoughts about my 2009 Holiday Gift Guide by leaving a comment on that post. Once you do, come back here post a separate comment stating you did.


Contest starts today November 20th - November 30th Midnight Central Time and open to US residents only. Leave each entry in separate comments. You don't have to be a blogger to enter, but please leave a valid email address for contact purposes.

This post made possible by Ubisoft who sent us Petz Nursery for the Nintendo DS. Opinions here are solely my own and have not been wavered by the products I received or compensated in any other way.

**CONTEST HAS NOW CLOSED**

Congrats to MommaStaciA! Please check your inbox on how to claim your prize

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It's the Season of baking, shopping, organizing, wrapping, partying, traveling, and.... stressing.

With the Holidays in full bloom, Mommas can feel really overwhelmed. I know when I feel like it's all too much, I tend to be really grouchy. Sometimes, the "Go-Go-Go" makes me "Snap-Snap-Snap"! Sometimes, it EVEN makes me wish the Holidays would simply be over.

Last year, I urged Parents to take time to relax with your children, snuggle, and enjoy family togetherness. My toddler and I did just that, by enjoying quality time cuddling in front of the TV with a Baby Einstein DVD. This year, however, we have a new favorite, So Smart! Baby's First-Word Stories - House.



About the DVD:

In this DVD, So Smart! friends Edward, Iggy, Larry and Dee Dee will first introduce your little one to simple words about objects in the home, and then build sentences and stories around them. A deliberately gentle pace, engaging imagery, and soothing music make So Smart! a winner for both parents and young children 1 to 3 years old, who are just beginning to explore the rich world of language. Features 5 vocabulary adventures with your So Smart! Friends: Bathtime!, Who's Hiding in the House?, Sounds in My House, Where is Edward's House?, and Clean-up Time. BONUS: Printable Activities for each Adventure Included—10 Total! (PC and Mac Compatible)

My toddler and I were asked to review this new line of DVDs designed for 1-3 year-olds. He's two so I knew it would be a hit in our home! I love introducing him to movies that will help him engage with he world around him, giving him more understanding of the new vocabulary he learns every day.

What We Liked:

• Storyline: The events in the storyline are activities your child sees and experiences every day such as: playing outside in the mud, hearing the telephone ring, and seeing Momma vacuum the floor.

• Pictures and Quality: There is no over stimulation with graphics. The pictures are simple, gently paced, yet engaging with bright colors.

• Animals: So Smart! uses easy recognizable characters. Our favorite happens to be Iggy the Piggy. My toddler was laughing hysterically when I asked, "What's the Piggy's Name?" He says, "Iggy the Piggy" out loud and THAT's when he recognized the rhyming sound. Of course, it had me laughing just to see his discovery.

• Short Segments: With short clips, my toddler isn't easily bored or sidetracked by the sounds in OUR house. It keeps him engaged and interested with the next story. The DVD is 30 minutes long, however, it's divided into 5 different segments - Bathtime, Who's Hiding in the House, Sounds in My House, Where is Edward's House?, Clean-up Time.



• Printable Activities: What better way to continue the activity and practice your vocabulary than to COLOR! There are 11 printable activities for your child that are both PC and MAC compatible.

• Continued Series: There are additional DVDs in the Baby's First-Word Series with the same lovable characters. We reviewed the House DVD, but your child can discover - Pets, Outside, Get Dressed, We-Go, and Nighttime.

Momma Improvements & Suggestions

• Price: We loved this DVD so much and want to create a WHOLE library of Baby's First Word Stories, however, with the Holidays comes Budget Crunch time. We are a family of five and I'm a Stay-At-Home Mom. Being a One-Income family, it's a little difficult to spend $15.99 on one DVD my older children wouldn't watch. My suggested price range for DVDs my children pick out are usually $9.99, unless it's over an hour long, newly-released full length movie, or neutral for the entire family.

Simply typing the price, makes it sound like it's not worth it, but it's actually the exact opposite. We're trying to be more creative with our budget to allow our toddler more movies just for him and with the Holidays it makes a perfect Christmas present for Babies and Toddlers.

Buy It

To purchase any DVD out of the So Smart! Baby's First-Word Stories line head over to SoSmart.com. Suggested retail price is $15.99.

Become a Fan of So Smart! on Facebook. You'll find other like minded parents, hear breaking news, and learn about their new products!

Win IT!

Thanks to our friends at So Smart! Productions, three lucky readers will win one copy of Baby's First Word Stories - House

How to Enter:

Required Entry:

Tell me what you do when the Holidays have you frazzled? Do you take the time to cuddle and do activities with your children? If so, what engaging activities do you do?

Extra Entry Options:

- 3 Extra Entries Add the Momma Findings 2009 Holiday Gift Guide button (on your left, complete with html copy/paste code) to your blog sidebar. Leave three separate comments stating you have, along with your blog url.

- Sign up to be an email subscriber right there on the right side

- Follow Momma Findings on Facebook Networked Blogs.

- Follow Momma Findings and My Sippy Cup Runneth Over (my personal blog) on Google Friends.

- Follow me on Twitter (@Sarann) and send out a Tweet linking to both this contest and replying to @Sarann. Leave a comment with the URL link to your Tweet.

- Tell me your thoughts about my 2009 Holiday Gift Guide by leaving a comment on that post. Once you do, come back here post a separate comment stating you did.


Contest starts today November 19th - November 29th Midnight Central Time and open to US residents only. Leave each entry in separate comments. You don't have to be a blogger to enter, but please leave a valid email address for contact purposes.

This post made possible by So Smart! Productions, who sent us a copy of Baby's First Word Stories - House. Opinions here are solely my own and have not been wavered by the products I received or compensated in any other way.

***Contest Now Closed*** Winners are: Jamie, Araceli, and Sherrie. Please check your inbox on how to claim your prize.

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It's so nice to be around family again. Instead of hundreds of miles away. I wouldn't have been able to enjoy times likes this one with my Sister.



For more Wordless Wednesday's head over to A Daily Dose of Toni, 5 Minutes for Mom, Keeper of the Cheerios, and 7 Clown Circus.

Link Up YOUR Wordless Wednesday:



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Welcome to Momma Findings 2nd Annual Holiday Gift Guide. We've got our eyes on some pretty cool gifts this year from toys, video games, dolls, scooters, and MORE!

Featured below are some of our faves in each age appropriate category. Browse through the list and you'll find a little about each product, where to buy, and EVEN how much it'll cost you. Make sure to book mark this site, subscribe via email, and add our Gift Guide Button (on the left hand side) to your blog. You'll be wanting to check back in the coming weeks for full reviews of these hot Holiday Gifts along with your chance to win some!

Happy Holiday Shopping from all here at the Momma Findings Household!



Cloud B Twilight Constellation Night Light- Float away in peaceful slumber under a beautiful star-filled sky. Twilight Ladybug makes bedtime fun and helps ease children’s fear of the dark by projecting a starry night sky onto bedroom ceiling and walls. Stars and Ladybug shell illuminate in three magical colors to help children sleep easier. The perfect sleep companion for children of all ages! $34.99 at Cloud B Online Store



Corolle Large Ragdoll- This all-cloth doll with embroidered features will become your baby's first best friend! Soft and light, it's easy for little hands to grasp and to hold. Machine washable. $34.99 at Corolle.com


PaciPlushies- The perfect gift for a lovable baby girl or boy (in blue). Super soft and snuggly and sure to become baby's favorite companion. The Paci-Plushie's unique style allows pacifier to remain close at all times while teaching baby to manipulate the pacifier without any help. $13.99 at PaciPlushies.com


Smart Mom Jewelry Teething Bling- Teething Bling was inspired by babies who like to tug on our jewelry. It is the original patent-pending teething jewelry. Made from the same material as many teething toys, Teething Bling looks great on Moms, Grandmas, Aunts and Caregivers but is safe for curious babies to handle and chew. Prices for Necklaces start at $19.10 at SmartMomJewelry.com



Mega Bloks Play’n Go Table- Perfect for pint-sized preschool builders who love to build everywhere they go! The Play’n Go Table features building fun, great storage and portability, and comes with 20 Maxi Mega Bloks pieces for endless hours of fun and building excitement!With easy-to-fold legs that allow for quick clean up and storage, and an integrated handle, the Play’n Go Table is wonderful for on-the-go building. The building plates allow for multiple building configurations so preschoolers can build even bigger and higher, and the integrated tracks work with all Mega Bloks vehicles.The table also promotes discovery and imagination with four fun scenes, stickers, a figure and vehicle. $39.99 at Target


So Smart! Baby's First-Word Stories DVD- A brand-new DVD line from So Smart!, Baby’s First-Word Stories is created especially for 1 to 3 year olds who are beginning to explore the rich world of language. In these DVDs, So Smart! friends Edward, Iggy, Larry and Dee Dee will first introduce little ones to simple words, and then build sentences and stories around them. Six fun DVDs introduce words about getting dressed, being outside, nighttime and more! $15.99 at SoSmart.com and Momma Findings Approved




LeapFrog Text and Learn- Designed to let little learners play in a grown-up way! Children can exchange text messages with their puppy pal Scout with the Text and Learn, check Scout's planner to see what his week entails and more in the pretend browser mode. Other learning modes with the Text and Learn offer practice with letter matching, shape identification and QWERTY keyboard navigation through silly animations and sound effects. $21.99 at Toys R Us


Crayola Beginnings Color Me a Song- Helps build toddlers' creativity, confidence and independence through creative experiences. Helps develop fine and gross motor skills. Allows toddler to create original music with their scribbles. Music will change based on speed of coloring, the faster you scribble .. the faster the song. $19.99 at Toys R Us.


Corolle Nourrisson Doll- Adorable, just like a real baby ("nourrisson" is French for "infant") - soft, light and delightfully huggable - for endless hours of pretend play! Includes a pacifier. $74.95 at Corolle.com


UNO Moo Farm Animal Matching Game- The farm animals have come out of their barn to play UNO! Round them up by matching colors or animals. Is there a blue pig on the barn roof? Match it with any blue animal or any color pig. You can also play a farmer, he's wild and matches anything! The first player to get all of their figures back in the barn wins! $19.88 at Walmart.



Dora the Explorer Mood Camera- Made by Sakar, this easy-to-use camera is perfect for any little explorer to capture images of their daily adventures. Plus, it has fun phrases that Dora is known to say and fun interactive software so you can create picture books, stories, and much more. $24.99 at Toys R Us.



Ni Hao Kai-Lan Walkie Talkies- Fun walkie talkies, made by Sakar, that make it easy to communicate with your best friend. Features on/off switch to save battery life, a flexible safety antenna to withstand tough treatment, and a belt clip. $14.99 at Toys R Us.



V-Tech Bugsby Reading System- Join Bugsby the Book Worm on a reading adventure! Your child will love that they can read along and interact with their favorite characters in stories that build early reading skills. Children will also have fun listening to the story read aloud or by playing any of the skill building reading activities that focus on reading comprehension, phonics, sentence structure, word recognition and more. Designed with convenience in mind, the Bugsby Reading System includes the software cartridge with every book title - no additional downloads required. $29.99 at Toys R Us.



Bravo Sports Bubble Scooter- The 3-Wheeled Bubble Scooter features a unique battery powered bubble generator, which blows bubbles out of the back of the scooter while you scoot! The bubbles can be turned on or off with a button on the top of the footplate. This stable scooter also features a sturdy steel frame, PVC wheels, and a safe, textured footplate with fun in-molded graphics. Available at Major Retailers.



YoGabbaGabba Boombox- Preschoolers can now bring the colorful cast of characters of the hit preschool television series YO GABBA GABBA! to life through Mega Bloks, the #1 choice of preschool building blocks. Join friendly toy monsters Brobee, Foofa, Muno, and Toodee, and build and re-build their magical world full of music, dancing and just plain fun.Preschoolers can dance, listen, create beats and sing along with their favorite YO GABBA GABBA! characters and songs! The DJ Lance Boombox transforms into a “Dance Party” with original music from the show, and when the party is over, all the pieces fit neatly inside the boombox that doubles as storage. The 25-piece set comes with Brobee and Foofa buildable and dancing figurines, and other accessory pieces. $26.99 at Toys R Us

WowWee Mini Alive Cubs- Your favorite WowWee Live Mini Panda Bear Cub is now available as an adorable miniature. This 8 inch small and cuddly plush baby animal makes soft and endearing sounds from snoring, to gurgling and feeding sounds. Feed him with his bottle, he will make real baby animal sounds. Pick him up or lay him down and see how he reacts. He will even fall asleep when you leave him alone. $19.99 at Amazon.com



Barbie & The Three Musketeers Corinne Doll- Dreams come true with this inspirational doll! In Barbie™ and The Three Musketeers, Barbie as Corinne™ longs to become an elite Musketeer, and girls will love reenacting this brave heroine's amazing transformation. Corinne™ doll's gorgeous gown and tiara turn into a Musketeer outfit, so she can conceal her identity while saving the Prince from royal danger! $22.99 at the Mattel Shop.


Mattel Dora Links Doll- The Dora Links doll is the cornerstone of the entire new Dora's Explorer Girls collection, featuring an older Dora who lives in a rich online world with her new friends and attends school in the big city. At http://www.doralinks.om/, girls can explore, play games, customize and--most importantly--solve mysteries with Dora and her friends! By plugging the Dora Links doll into a computer, girls can access Dora's brand-new, exclusive interactive online world. And, through this exciting new innovation in computer-connected play, as girls are playing with Dora in her online world, they can customize their doll and watch as she magically transforms right before their eyes! $49.97 at Amazon.com



2009 Holiday Barbie- The 2009 Barbie Collector Holiday Barbie Doll is quite the vision. Barbie shines in a shimmering pale pink and golden lamé gown. Gown has an artfully wrapped bodice. Dress is also draped in sparkling tulle. Magnificent chandelier earrings will complete this 2009 Holiday Barbie Dolls look. Doll cannot stand alone. $44.99 at Toys R Us.


Corolle Les Chéries Cecile Doll- Les Chéries Cecile loves fashion, just like the young girls of today she is designed and dressed to resemble.She has an all-vinyl body, moving eyes and curly dark, rooted hair that can be combed and styled, even shampooed! $44.95 at Corolle.com


Paper Fashions Fancy- Paper fashions get glam! In the Klutz paper fashions custom, young designers get to turn colorful paper, ribbons, beads, sequins, and jewels into glamorous fashions and accessories. $21.95 at Klutz.com




Pulse Slither Scooter- The first innovative three-wheeled scooter of its kind, the Pulse Slither offers the ability to pull off tricks and maneuvers that are simply not possible on any traditional scooter. The Pulse Slither translates the fun of riding a snowboard, skiing or surfing into a street toy. It can be ridden facing forward or standing to one side and is propelled by “slithering” from side to side or by pushing with your foot, opening up even more trick possibilities and making it that much harder to put away. The two large front wheels and rudder-like rear wheel with variable tension gives the rider the freedom to drift in and out of turns, zip around corners, execute lightning-quick 180º turns and adjusts to their skill level. $59.99 at Major Retailers nationwide and Momma Findings Approved


Bakugan Battle Pack -With this Bakugan Battle Pack, kids 6 and above will enjoy the challenge of earning points by rolling their Bakugan (or shooting them from a launcher) onto magnetic cards where the plastic spheres burst open to reveal the fearsome warrior apparatus inside. Kids will also love the way the Bakugan transform suddenly into warrior mode, and fans of the show will have an especially good time with the game. $18.40 at Amazon.com


Battle Strikers Tournament- Tournament Set is the ultimate Battle Strikers battling playset...experience the turbo power of next generation battling tops with Battle Strikers Turbo Tops by MagNext. Say goodbye to spinning tops of the past and make way for Battle Strikers, the ultimate kid-controlled spinning top battling system! The Controllers give you precise fingertip control, and fit both left and right hands. Power up your Battle Strikers Turbo Launchers, load them up with Turbine and Mauler Strikers, launching them onto the arena for fast and furious battles! Accelerate your Strikers at 6300 RPM and feel the magnetic power as you use your Controllers to command the battle. 3 AA batteries required Suggested Retail Price $39.99 at Amazon.com and Momma Findings Approved


SpongeBob Underwater Camera & Case- You can use this fun digital camera out of the water or underwater (up to 30 feet). It takes up to 152 digital photos and comes with new SpongeBob image editing and video software. $29.99 at Toys R Us.



Mega Bloks Streetz City Pursuit- Build the city, rule the road with Mega Bloks Streetz City Pursuit. Jump the bridge, crash into the police station, smash through the bank, drift the corner, jump the bank, hit the sign, jump and park, corkscrew around parking lot and blast through the billboard for a completely cool and radical stunt set. With the new LED radio-control technology, you can activate the Police Van (Mobile Command) with the Chopper (Sky Watch) to chase down the bad guys. $39.99 at Walmart Stores



Invastion of the BristleBots- Invasion of the Bristlebots comes with two mini-robots basically motorized toothbrush heads. These guys zoom around like caffeinated cockroaches, spinning, skittering, and bouncing off walls. Resistance is futile. The book bristles with ideas for robot games and activities: race robots against each other, use the included punch-out walls to construct a bristlebot maze, stage a robot sumo-wrestling match. You can even customize your Bots with the provided wire legs, feelers, and beady eyes. $19.95 at Klutz.com



K'NEX 400pc Tub- Loaded with 400 parts, including bricks, for lots of open-ended fun and endless building and play opportunities! Includes instructions and ideas for 20 models or use your imagination to dream up your own creations. The convenient storage tub means there is always a place to put your parts or take the fun with you wherever you go! $19.99 at Walmart and Momma Findings Approved.


WowWee RoboRover- The Roborover robot is a talking, tread-based, roving explorer with an inquisitive personality that grows to become more confident as users navigate and play with him. The Roborover robot is operated via remote-control and features poseable arms, head and waist. This shy little explorer features spoken content, various driving-based games, infrared sensors for obstacle avoidance, and tilt sensors allowing him to perceive when he has fallen over. The Roborover robot also features a "Follow Me" homing function that will trigger this exploratory companion to search for his user even in the dark! Sensor-based LED headlights will automatically turn on in the dark to illuminate his path. $49.99 at Amazon.com




Erin Condren Designs- From the invitation to the Thank You card, and everything in between, Erin Condren offers personalized printed items for every occasion including invitations, thank you cards, table name cards, and life planners. Our personal favorite are the Personalized LifePlanners that start at $48.00 at ErinCondren.com




Label Daddy Personalized Labels- Perfect for families with small children in school, camp, and sports! Great way to keep all your belongings labeled, dishwasher safe, laundry safe. Gift Cards are available for that awesome stocking stuffer! Use coupon code: LDMOMMY for 20% off your order. Prices Vary at LabelDaddy.com


Gotta Catch Santa Claus DVD- Funky music, holiday magic and a supersonic sleigh are all wrapped up in this CGI–animated family adventure starring William Shatner as the voice of Santa! Trevor is a true believer in the holiday spirit, so his skeptical best friend, Veronica, challenges him to show the world actual proof that Santa is real. Gotta Catch Santa Claus will be broadcast nationally on ABC Family during their annual "25 Days of Christmas" programming block! $13.99 at Amazon.com


The Christmas Magic Book- Far, far North, when the nights are longest and the stars shine brightest, Santa begins to prepare for his big night of giving. He gathers his reindeer, feeds them parsnips and berries, and polishes his bells and his sled. Then lovingly, he chooses toys for every child in the world. For Santa loves them all, and he knows what each child at heart wants most. Then, with the thrum of magic that makes reindeers fly, he spreads the Christmas joy and warmth throughout the world--as he always has -- and always will until the end of time. By: Lauren Thompson & Jon J Muth. $16.99 at the Scholastic Online Store and Momma Findings Approved!


Whimsical Creations Christmas Ornaments- Christmas ornaments great for gift giving: ornament exchanges, teachers gifts, or for your own tree. Polymer clay ornaments, magnets, figures, pendants and beads can be found in the entire collection. Prices vary, starting at $6.00 at Whimsical Creations. Momma Findings Approved!


The Nutcracker and the Mouse King- In this gorgeous telling of The Nutcracker, Gail de Marcken brings E.T.A. Hoffmann's richly enchanting world to life. With beautifully detailed illustrations, the story of THE NUTCRACKER AND THE MOUSE KING will become an instant classic . It's a story readers of all ages will delight in. $18.99 at the Scholastic Online Store and Momma Findings Approved!


Sock Grams- Perfect for those stockings! Your personally chosen novelty socks - as many pairs as you'd like to send. One specially chosen greeting card, with a personal message, if you so choose. One .25 fl oz packet of Foot Balm. Your specially wrapped gift with tissue paper inside a durable, waterproof, blue metallic envelope. Prices start at $9.95 at SockGrams.com


ChicCanvas Gifts- Offers the perfect keepsake gift solution for a any family member by turning precious memories into art by taking any photo and reproducing it on to a canvas. Canvases range in sizes from 8 x10 to 40x60. Each finished product can be personalized and stylized with captions and borders. Prices start at $79.00 at ChicCanvas.com


Nescafe Tasters Choice- Now the rich, savory flavor of Original 100% Pure Coffee is available in convenient single-serve packets. Hazelnut, Vanilla, Original, Decaffeinated, and 100% Colombian. Perfect for stocking stuffers or gift baskets! $3.49 for a 22 count box at Super Markets nationwide. Momma Findings Approved.


Theatre Gifts: How Does the Show Go On? Interactive Book- An exciting interactive guide that lifts the curtain on everything that's involved in putting a theatre production on the stage. Perfect for your budding actor or for Disney loving family! $22.95 at the Disney on Broadway Store


Chic Buds iPod Inspired Designer Series- Why settle for plain-looking earbuds when you can have chicBuds Designer Series! Inspired by Apple iPod, the stylish built-in retractor on these buds match the new nano and shuffle colors... with Swarovski crystal accents on the earpieces. The built-in retractable device is not only stylish, but serves a functional purpose too! The retractor allows the cord length to expand and retract to 5 stopping points while the clip prevents cords from bouncing around. This compact retractable device also keeps cords from tangling when not in use. Listening never looked (and felt) so good! Available in 4 Designs: Blue-Raspberry Swirl White, Blue-Raspberry Swirl Black, Grape Sorbet White, Grape Sorbet Black Compatible with: iPods, iPhones, MP3 Player, Walkmen, Computers, Airplane Connectors... Basically any listening device! $29.00 at ChicBlvd.com



Nintendo DS Game: Style Lab Jewelry- The art of jewelry design brought to the Nintendo DSi! Create beautiful designer jewelry with your own unique designs. Innovative game-to-web feature allows you to make jewelry that fits your style, then order, own, and wear your own creations! (this functionality only available through the DSi) $27.99 at Amazon.com


My Baby First Steps Wii Game- Your baby has grown so fast! Can you believe that a year has already gone by? Take care of your baby from their 1st birthday until they’re 3 years old. Your baby will discover its entire environment and learn from it, they’ll walk, babble and speak, try to catch every object they can, and put everything in their mouth... Your baby will be the apple of your eye! In My Baby Next Steps, the companion to the bestselling My Baby Girl and Boy on Nintendo DS, you can experience the magic of caring for a toddler and experience the joy of seeing your baby grow up right before your eyes! $29.99 at Amazon.com


Wii Sports Resort- In Wii Sports Resort, you'll use your Wii Remote to literally swing into action. Perform realistic sports moves to take on the competition in activities that include Sword Play, Power Cruising (racing a water scooter) and Disc Dog, in which you'll toss a disc to an adorable, Mii-like dog. Become even more immersed in the action courtesy of the included Wii MotionPlus accessory, which attaches to your Wii Remote to provide even greater responsiveness and precision. With the game's easy-to-use controls, anyone can pick up a Wii Remote and leap into the game to experience all the heated competition and hilarity. $46.99 at Amazon.com


NERF Sports Pack- Hit one out of the park with official NERF attachments for your favorite Wii Sports games. The Wii Sports Pack includes fun add-ons for Baseball, Golf, and Tennis$19.99 at the PDP online store


NERF Resort Swords- Sword fighting is the premier mini-game in Nintendo's biggest summer release, Wii Sports Resort, and there's no better way to put the new MotionPlus add-on to use than with a pair of NERF Resort Swords. Fully compatible with the MotionPlus and Nintendo silicone Jacket, the NERF Resort Swords will let players challenge each other with safe foam blades. $19.99 at the PDP Online Store


Family Fun Football Wii Game- In this arcade-style casual sports game for everyone to enjoy, play against friends and family in vibrant themed football stadiums, or perhaps even in space! Choose to be one of the game's quirky characters, featuring animals, aliens and robots, or unlock the mode to play as your own Mii. The ability to coach teams with a simple offensive and defensive playbook coupled with intuitive Wii Remote controls makes the game appealing to all ages for a fun pick-up and play party experience. Mascot Mode - Players can play as their default character or their team's mascot in Mascot Mode! Mascots include animals, aliens and robots and additional, unlockable mascot heads Mii Compatibility - Unlock the ability to play as your Mii and load in your own caricatures and play against your friends' and family's Miis for a more personal experience. $29.99 at Amazon.com


NERF Racing Wheel- This is your ultimate racing wheel for all your Wii racing games! With a thick layer of authentic Nerf foam, it offers unmatched comfort for hours of play. Available in assorted colors, this is a must-have for Wii drivers. $9.99 at the PDP Online Store


Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus Friends Asian Elephants Nintendo DS Game- A Baby animal simulation game. In it players take on the duties of caring for a baby Asian elephant. Not only will players train their new friend, but they will also tend to his/her medical, feeding, cleanliness and even its mental well-being as they establish a bond with their pachyderm through more than 15 play activities. $29.49 at Amazon.com


Petz Nursery Nintendo DS Game- Learn how to take care of adorable baby petz - Give them milk, keep them clean and warm, help them grow. Unlock more exotic baby animals such as polar bears, pandas and tigers as you prove your nurturing abilities. Play fun games with your baby petz and watch them react in surprising ways - Play pick-a-boo and watch them make faces at you. Inter-connectivity - Send your baby petz from Petz Nursery to other Petz games (Petz Dogz Talent Show and Hamsterz Superstarz) wirelessly to continue watching them grow. $29.99 at Amazon.com and Momma Findings Approved


Pirates: Duel on the High Seas DS Game- Adventure across the seas in search of a legendary treasure, recruiting crewmen, exploring uncharted waters, and battling myriad foes.$19.99 at Amazon.com


NERF DSi Armor- The official NERF Armor for Nintendo's DSi protects your valuable system from bumps and bruises. Authentic, soft, NERF material on the Armor gives you additional grip and comfort while playing. $14.99 at PDP Online Store.



Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus Wii Game- Packed with more than 40 mini-games, including eight containing multiplayer support for up to four players. This list of games also contains limited Wii Balance Board compatibility, adding to the game's interactive nature. If you’re ready to soar through the air as a human cannonball, perform with magnificent Bengal tigers, defy gravity on a motorcycle in the Spherical Miracle, dazzle the crowd with aerial acrobatics, clown around in a juggling jamboree and dance with an exotic Asian elephant, then you’re ready for the fun and thrill of the Greatest Show on Earth that can only be experienced at Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey. $39.49 at Amazon.com


Winter's Tail Nintendo DS Game- The ONLY Nintendo DS game that combines the amazing true story of Winter with Engaging mini games and heartwarming life lessons. Immersive Interactive Story - Based on Real Life Events. Play Fun Mini-Games that reinforce the meaning of each chapter. Discover Fun Fish Facts. Interact with Whale Words - pronunciation and definitions. Customize with the Storybook Editor, Paint and Color Mode and More! $29.99 at Amazon.com


Jumpstart Escape from Adventure Islane Wii Game- Take off on an island adventure packed with excitement! Designed for kids ages 5-9, JumpStart Escape from Adventure Island is the second title in the JumpStart series of adventure-based learning games for the Wii. This action-packed game invites players to use their explorer skills and brain power to find a way to escape a mysterious island after a crash landing strands them there! As players race to collect the pieces needed to repair their blimp, they’ll need to ward off the pesky fur balls known as Punk Punks and navigate 3D worlds both above and below the water. Along the way, players can practice over 150 math, reading and critical thinking skills—the fun way! Wii Remote technology that allows players to run, jump, fly, swim, roll and dance across a virtual island. The chance for players to express themselves while selecting the perfect avatar outfit, hair, features and more! $29.99 at Amazon.com


PDC Championship Darts Wii Game- Create your own player mode and play in 7 major tournaments in the PDS. Features the following PDC Champions: Phil Taylor, Peter Manley, Adrian Lewis, amd many more. Play in either Quick Match, Custom Tournament, or Party Games Mode $22.56 at Amazon.com


My Secret Diary Nintendo DS Game- Store your secrets, keep a journal and have fun with mini-games, or send secret messages and event invitations to keep in touch with your friends. Store and set reminders of special events for you and your friends, and update your calendar with friend's birthdays and details. Customize your profile and keep up to date with your daily mood monitor. Play games; have fun with personality tests to discover what kind of friend you are, or what flower you would be, play with fortune cookies, and friend matcher mini-games to see who is most compatible. Check your aura ring to test your mood or consult your crystal ball for a look into the future! All password protected you won't have to worry about somebody finding your key. Send secret messages and event invitations to your friends, or sit back and chat with all of your My Secret Diary, My Dress-Up and My Make-Up friends with exclusive MyGames Chat over DS Wireless Communication. $19.99 at Amazon.com


Wii Squeeballs Party- Squeeballs are toys made on a secret island somewhere in the Pacific Ocean. Before they can be sold, they must be tested: Only the best Squeeballs make it off the island. You are the tester - slice them, dice them, inflate them! Test them to destruction! $29.99 at the PDP Online Store. Also available for Nintendo DS and iPhone.


This Gift Guide made possible by all the above brands, who sent us units of each products, excluding Dora Links, Wii Sports Resort, Bakugan Battle Pack, and Holiday Barbie. Opinion and decision to include items in the Holiday Gift Guide are solely my own and have not been wavered by the products I've received or compensated in any other way.

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