{WINNER} Wholesale Costume Club $25 GC Giveaway

Announcement: The lucky WINNER for the Costume Club $25 Gift Certificate Giveaway that ended July 20, 2012 is..... (drum roll, please).





Congratulations to brittney (#547)



I have sent you an email. You have 48 hours to respond. Thanks everyone for participating in my giveaway contests.

Free Blogger Sign-Up: The Bounciest Giveaway Ever Event

 Welcome to The BOUNCIEST GIVEAWAY EVER Eventhosted by Mom Powered Media

PARTICIPATION DETAILS:

* Prize: BounceLand Castle Bounce N’ Slide

* Eligibility: Open to US residents in the lower 48 States (bloggers worldwide may join us in promoting the giveaway as long as you have at least 50% US readership)

* Event Dates: August 13 - August 27, 2012

* You will receive one link at no cost (with announcement) as a thank you for participating in this event.

* Announcement post (html found here - http://goo.gl/NVYuI) OR pay a $5 fee if you do not post announcement

* Additional links {$2 each} - You may only purchase up to 4 additional links.

* Page Hosts {$10 each} - Additional host pages are available for purchase (spots limited!)

* Co-Host {Bid} - Accepting 3 co-host for this event. Benefits are html link on all blogs participating in the event, up to 6 links on the rafflecopter including one enter/comment link worth 10 entry points and hosts will receive a follow/like page to be hosted on their blog.

* Agree to post the giveaway html on the date the event begins and promote daily

NON-PUBLISHER: For this event non-publishers will be accepted as well. Meaning business, blogs, etc may join without being required to publish the giveaway html. The cost to join this event as a non-publisher is $30 for 2 links. (spaces are limited)

* Send payments via PayPal to payments[at]mompoweredmedia[dot]com


BLOGGER REFERRAL

The blogger who refers the most bloggers and businesses to join will receive Tate The Toad.

Please feel free to mention JEN from "Baby Brandon's Adventures" (brandonyuen.blogspot.com) referred you! Thanks so much!



SIGN-UP HERE

Blogger Sign-Up Event: Baby Party Giveaway

This is a Baby Party Giveaway (worth $500) hosted by Pregnancy Forum

PRIZES (There will be 3 winners)

Grand Prize - Baby Stroller
Second Prize - Bedding 10 piece Crib Set
Third Prize - Clear blue digital ovulation tests (There are many women who are trying to conceive so a 3rd prize is added.)


PARTICIPATION DETAILS:

- Blogger Sign-Up is open July 11, 2012 to August 11, 2012

Eligibility: Open WORLDWIDE

Event Dates: August 12 - September 10, 2012.


- Receive 2 FREE links (choice of Facebook/Twitter or Pinterest) with announcement post or $5.00 without announcement. Additional links $2.00 each.

- Send payments via PayPal to prettyinpinkmom[at]gmail[dot]com (This email is only for payments only).

- Host Slots: You can purcahse a host slot to increase your page visits. Hosts slots available for $10 fee (Facebook or Twitter).

- Once giveaway is live, you are willing to promote at least 2x times a day.




SIGN-UP HERE

Pampers Gifts to Grow Codes (July 2012)

Hi everyone! If you collect Pampers Gifts-to-Grow codes, new points codes are available. I'm also including the on-going ones in case any of you missed any. Enjoy! :)






TWIT712PT4XD912 - 5 points (expires Jul 26)
JULSUMNL12SPNMR - 10 points (expires Jul 26)
FBOLYMPICS72712 - 10 points (expires Jul 31)

WELCOME2VILLAGE - 10 points (no expiry)
GTGWELCOME10PTS - 10 points (no expiry)
GIFTSTOGROW4MOM - 50 points (no expiry)
JOINNOW4REWARDS - 50 points (no expiry)
2BEGINEARNING50 - 50 points (no expiry)
GTGREWARDS4MOMS - 10 points (no expiry)
WELCOMEGTGPTS10 - 10 points (no expiry)
GTGCOUPONPOINTS - 10 points (no expiry)
CAREFORNEWBORNS - 10 points (no expiry)
PAMPERSGTG10PTS - 10 points (no expiry)
10PTSFREECODE4U - 10 points (no expiry)
CONGRATS2NEWMOM - 10 points (no expiry)
GTGWELCOME10PTS - 10 points (no expiry)

Chug The Bug 3D Interactive Story App Review

Chug the Bug in 3D - A Peek 'n Play Story App

Meet Chug! He’s a friendly young bug who embarks on an adventure to school for the very first day! Experience the marvels of nature from a richly-illustrated bug’s point-of-view. He’ll make new friends, learn valuable lessons, and even discover that sometimes, you just have to dream BIG! The App is available for iPad and iPhone. The release date is Thursday, July 26, 2012

Mobad Media is a member of Moms with Apps, a collaborative group of family-friendly developers seeking to promote quality apps for kids and families. Utilizing a 3D gaming engine and proprietary app development tools, MoBaD seeks to advance the art of storytelling through interactivity, gaming elements, sound, animation, and educationally meaningful reading tools.

Features & Benefits:
• "Read To Me" highlights the words to improve reading skills
• "I Can Read" allows reading at your own pace
• Individual words can be tapped and multiple words selected to hear that section of the story played back
• Interactive surprises and hidden objects on every page
• Original music and soothing narration
• Hints can be turned on to assist in finding interactive thingamabobs
• Auto Play available if you want to watch the story unfold like a movie




Another new storybook app got Brandon excited. After seeing the adorable illustrations, he wanted to see what the story is all about. What we found interesting was the 3D effect when you tilt the device. It's like you're almost in the story. It's fun and educational and keeps Brandon entertained while learning to read as well.



Don't forget to visit the website at www.ChugTheBug.com for free games and coloring pages for kids to download.


Disclosure: I received a code to redeem for the above App at no charge in exchange for a review of my opinion. The opinions expressed are my own personal and honest thoughts. No other compensation was given.

Martha Speaks Premieres New Episode July 23 on PBS KIDS

This July, tune in to an all-new Martha Speaks! In "Dog Daze," when Carolina chastise Martha for her doggish mannerisms, Martha wishes Carolina could just see things from her point of view. That night, Carolina goes to sleep only to awake as...a dog! What will happen when she's forced to take on a furry, four-legged perspective?

Also airing that day is the brand-new "Monkeyshines Martha." In this episode, Helen's hefty schoolwork load leaves her with little time left to spend with Martha. At loose ends, Martha finds a friend in Professor Monkey, whose wacky inventions propel Martha into a world of new adventures.




Click on video below to watch the clip from the episode:



Tune in for these new Martha Speaks adventures airing Monday, July 23 on PBS KIDS (check local listings)!

Lovable Labels Back to School Pack: Review & Giveaway

Getting an early start for your Back-to-School shopping yet? I picked up some stationary and a new smaller backpack for Brandon. It's time to put labels on them so we don't risk losing his favorite things.
 
I received a Back to School Pack from Lovable Labels containing over 165 labels where Brandon can label almost everything. We used it on his lunch box, back pack, clothing, shoes, and even on his favorite drinking cup. I'm a big label user with Brandon because kids always lose their stuff, get misplaced, or get mixed up with other's belongings while at school. The pack also includes 2 mini-metal tags. We used them for his travel luggage.





The last time I used the labels were on his new beach and sand toys. The labels are still in it's place and Brandon was able to identify that those are his toys. Another parent saw those labels and asked where I got them and I told them to check out the LovableLabels.ca website.





Lovable Labels are colorful, fun, flexible, unique and durable. They provide great quality using 3M Scotchcal adhesives. It is perfect for labeling all the stuff kids take to camp, school, and just about anywhere! The best part is that these labels are durable and waterproof.

Regular Labels are great for books, school binders, pencil cases, school supplies, lunch boxes, sippy cups, water bottles, CDs & DVDs, toys, etc.

Slimline Labels are smaller versions of the Regular Labels. They are great for smaller objects such as school supplies, pens & pencils, hairbrushes, etc.

Square Labels are great for larger items. Can be used on lunch boxes, binders, books, etc.

Press n' Stick Clothing DOTS are easy to use. Just peel and stick the lable eto the care tag of the garment. No need for ironing or sewing.

Mini-Metal Tags are made from lightweight aluminum and come with complimentary ball chains. These are ideal for back packs, duffel bags, diaper bags, key chains, and luggage.

Label Features:
- Machine Washable
- Waterproof
- Dryer Safe
- Bleach Safe
- No Ironing Required
- UV Resistant
- Variety of sizes and colors
- Colorful for easy identification




WHERE TO BUY? You can purchase the Back-to-School Pack or other variety of designs online at www.lovablelabels.ca. Receive $5 off any purchase of $25 or more using coupon code BTS201239 during checkout. Code is valid until September 30, 2012.





GIVEAWAY

What's included in the Back to School label packs? You'll get 15 Sticker Labels, 80 Slimline Labels, 12 Shoe Labels, 48 Press n' Stick Clothing DOTS, 2 Mini-Metal Tags (two 4” silver ball chains included), and 12 Square Labels.

One (1) lucky reader will have a chance to win the Lovable Labels Back to School Pack. Chosen winner will be selected via Random.org through Rafflecopter and is open to Canadian and US residents (ends August 23, 2012 at 11:59pm EST). Winner will have 48 hours to respond to claim their prize. Good luck!

{Please wait while Rafflecopter entry form loads...}

a Rafflecopter giveaway











Don't lose it - Label It!

Disclosure: I received samples at no charge in order to complete my review. Thanks to Lovable Labels. The opinions expressed are my own personal and honest thoughts. No other compensation was given.

Get Your MBS On: $100 Amazon GC or Paypal Giveaway

Get Your MBS On!

Calling all bloggers new and experienced, MBS wants you to join us, Mom Blog Society Blogger Network!

Mom Blog Society is a knowledge base for moms, by moms. We feature bloggers from around the world. Our vision is to utilize the power and potential of the Internet to connect people and groups around the world as never before. At Mom Blog Society we pride ourselves on the unique solutions we developed to bring like-minded individuals together.

Mom Blog Society is much more than a networkers starter kit-it's a team of advisers, colleagues, and cheerleaders ready to support our members every step of the way.
We bring a fresh and original perspective to the term "blog networking".

Mom Blog Society believes that every mom blog is essential to the blogging world. Therefore, we strive to promote our members and encourage each and every member of our site to speak up and tell the world what's on their mind!

Mom Blog Society was founded in 2011 by LaDonna Dennis and Jackie Pate, mom bloggers since 2006. LaDonna & Jackie started Mom Blog Society because we believe every mom blogger deserves the "Society Spotlight"!

Meet Mom Blog Society Network Owners

LaDonna founder of Mom Blog Society

Pamela, Mom Does Reviews

Michelle, Powered By Mom

Teri, Mom to Bed by 8

Abby, Mommy Moments with Abby

Benefits to being a Mom Blog Society member:

The ability to network with a large community of bloggers
Review and Giveaway Opportunities

Media Events to help you grow your readership and social media outreach
An amazing support system

No matter your level of blogging experience, the MBS network gladly welcomes you with open arms.

So what are you waiting for? Joining Mom Blog Society is completely free!

GIVEAWAY

One (1) lucky reader will have a chance to win a $100 Amazon GC or Paypal Cash. Chosen winner will be selected via Random.org through Rafflecopter and is open WORLDWIDE to new & existing MBS members (ends August 1, 2012 at 11:59pm EST). Winner will have 48 hours to respond to claim their prize. GOOD LUCK!



{Please wait while Rafflecopter entry form loads...}

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received an entry on the giveaway above for my participation in this Mom Blog Society event. My opinions are my own and may differ from those of your own. "Baby Brandon's Adventures" Blog is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment.

Fun-Filled Day at the 12th Annual Marpole Summerfest

It was the 12th Annual Marpole Summerfest event on Saturday, July 14th. Location was along Granville Street between 63rd and 71st Avenues.

There were sidewalk sales and merchant promotions, musicians, balloon artists, face painters, and a classic car Show 'n Shine! It was a fun-filled family event. Brandon got a lot of free goodies and balloons.




Brandon's favorite part was pretending to be a bus driver and honking the horn.

3 Boy Bands Every Mom Should Know About

The following is a guest post by Lauren Bailey. Thank-you Lauren for the great article.

I'll never forget the day I realized my mom was one of the coolest moms on the planet. The year was 1999 and I was a 12-year-old sixth grader in love with the boy band NSYNC. One summer afternoon, my mom came home early from work and caught me on the phone trying to win concerts tickets to the sold out No Strings Attached Tour. I knew she couldn't afford the pricey tickets, so I never even bothered to ask for them. The radio was my only chance. I tried several times, but alas my fingers were too slow.

Several days later the local radio DJ announced my favorite boy band would be adding an extra tour date in our city. That's when my mom looked at me and said: "tomorrow morning we're going to get you tickets to that show." I was floored. We waited in line for hours—bonded while I told her about school, my friends, and my crushes. I even filled her in on the band—after all, she needed to know about my favorite music and my love for Justin Timberlake if she was going to accompany me to the concert. When we finally made it to the epic show several months later, I had an absolute blast. It was truly one of the most amazing experiences of my early childhood and I was so thankful I got to share it with my mother. That memory will be emblazoned in my head forever.

Where am I getting at with all this? Well, boy bands are now making a comeback with a vengeance. If you want to be known as the "cool mom"—or just want something that you and your tween or teenager daughter (or even possibly son) can bond over—take your child to one of the shows. Or at the very least you can brush up on what your children are listening to so you can bond in the car or at home. That said, to learn the top three boy bands every mom should know about, continue reading on.

The Wanted
This five member British-Irish boy band is the newest to the bunch with their 2012 U.S. crossover hit "Glad You Came." The UK band, which is made up of Max George, Nathan Sykes, Jay McGuiness, Siva Kaneswaran, and Tom Parker was created after the boys won a massive American Idol-type show in 2009. Their second U.S. hit "Chasing the Sun" is also doing well. The band is currently touring the country.

One Direction
This five member band, which is also comprised of British and Irish young boys, is considered to be the Wanted's rival—think Backstreet Boys vs. NSYNC. Although their music styles are arguably different, this band was also formed in a similar fashion as their competitors: former American Idol judge Simon Cowell hand-selected the boy band during the UK's version of "The X-Factor." Although the group came in third place on the show, their hit single "That's What Makes You Beautiful" soared to number one in the U.S. The band, which is made up of Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson, Liam Payne, Harry Styles and Niall Horan, is also currently on tour.

Big Time Rush
Last but not least is American boy band Big Time Rush. This foursome group, which comprises of Logan Henderson, James Maslow, Carlos Pena, Jr, and Kendall Schmidt, owe much of its success to Nickelodeon. Producers discovered the boys so that they could be part of a show under the same name. They're famously known for their 2010 single "Half Way There."

ABOUT LAUREN BAILEY

Lauren Bailey is a freelance blogger who loves writing about education, new technology, lifestyle and health. As an education writer, she works to provide helpful information on the best online colleges and courses and welcomes comments and questions via email at blauren99[at]gmail[dot]com.

SlideDeck for WordPress

What is SlideDeck? It is a WordPress Slider and gallery plugin. This is nice for users who want the option to build a content slider on their site or blog.

The custom Text Slide type gives you the ultimate flexibility in getting your written message across. Not only can you link your slide to any URL, there is a simple WYSIWYG editor to make content entry easy. You can also format your text in a single or multi-column layout. The Text Slide is great for all kinds of things; instructions, poems, excerpts, recipes and quotes are just a few examples of content that you can use.

You can purchase one of the 3 bundles depending on your needs: Personal, Developer, or Professional. See below for pricing and list of features:




To install slidedeck, it requires jQuery 1.3+ to run and has only been tested in XHTML 1.0 Transitional and XHTML 1.0 Strict DOCTYPEs. This is very easy to do requiring minimal HTML and JavaScript knowledge. Installing WodPress plugins is a fairly simple process, but can cause all sorts of frustration if done incorrectly. Take a look at the walk-through video below:




Features:
- Maximum customization
- SEO Friendly
- Autoplay
- slider mode
- Full CSS customization
- Custom skins
- Touch screen support
- Video and Gallery ready
- Full API Access
- Free and Pro Templates
- Save hours of development time

Create Beautiful Video & Image Sliders in Seconds

Kabbage.com: Funding For Your Online Business

Did you think I meant to spell cabbage? There's no spelling error here. This company that spells it with a 'K'. Kabbage is dedicated to providing established online sellers with access to capital they can use to grow their business.

Kabbage business financing provides working capital to online sellers to help their businesses grow, in the form of a cash advance. They currently support sellers on eBay, Amazon, Yahoo, Shopify, and Etsy. You can sign up and create a FREE account and have cash in your Paypal account in less than 10 minutes, or your business checking account (via ACH) in 3-5 business days. Many people have used it very successfully to fund expansions to their business.

Kabbage cash can be used for whatever you want/need to grow your business. Many people use it for purchasing inventory, advertising, hiring help, upgrading their equipment, and even using it to take a business class or attend a show. This is great if you have a small online company or want to start an online business. It's simple to use with no hassles. There's no obligation.

Benefits & Features:
- Free to Sign Up.
- Fast and flexible.
- Safe and secure.
- No dealing with traditional banks trying to get approved on a loan.
- Kabbage provides 24 hour access to funds to grow your business.
- You are only charged a fee when you take money.

What are the costs? The company doesn't charge interest, but they do charge an advance fee. Below shows a chart based on a simple 6-month Kabbage Advance.






Click here for futher details.

Kabbage also offers The Kabbage Affiliate Program that allows you to earn commissions from qualifying sales when you refer customers that sign up on Kabbage. Membership is free.

{WINNER} Paper Hat Press Personalized Story Book Giveaway

Announcement: The lucky WINNER for the Paper Hat Press Personalized Story Book Giveaway (winner's choice) that ended July 7, 2012 is..... (drum roll, please).


Congratulations to Miranda Ward (#177)



I have sent you an email. You have 48 hours to respond. Thanks everyone for participating in my giveaway contests.