Raising Three Savvy Ladies

The Ohmies are back! Great NYC Kids Show

2011-07-09T01:02:00.002-04:00

The Ohmies are back in NYC! Dancing, Stetching and Giggling for all. A fun interactive show for kids ages 3 - 7 that uses yoga throughout the story plot. My two oldest savvies attended the show in January and they both were dancing and learning yoga poses.

This time, I took Middle Savvy and Baby Savvy. My five year old was very excited to return and see it one more time. This was the first show for Baby Savvy. I like that we weren't confined to chairs. Sitting on the floor and being able to move was definitely a positive for Baby Savvy. The show begins with Tito sharing all different kinds of music with audience members getting everyone into the mood. My five year old was really interested in getting the wish garden to grow. She loved the song that gets everyone hop, hop, hopping.

We love Bella Butterfly!

Preschool age is the perfect age for The Ohmies.

The Ohmies serves as a safe space for our preschool audience to explore the issues of everyday development: understanding emotions, making friends, getting along with siblings, overcoming fears and anxieties and learning to make healthy choices. My five year old really got into it and wanted to make sure that the "Worries" didn't ruin it for her wish garden. At the end of the show the cast comes out for photos.

The Savvy Ladies recommend going to see The Ohmies!

The Ohmies: Morning Wish Garden Returns to New York City for Summer!

The Ultimate Play Date for Kids Ages 3-7 Performs from

June 16 - September 25th

The Peter Jay Sharp Theater

416 West 42nd Street

Learn more about The Ohmies by:

Follow The Ohmies on Facebook

and on Twitter (@theohmies)

For a chance to win a Family 4 Pack to see The Ohmies, check out Newark Macaroni Kid

Her giveaway ends July 15

Dance Recital Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-06T10:08:00.000-04:00

Excited to start the show!

I did the bun myself, this was a big accomplishment for me!

After party with sis and friend

Getting Organized Before, During and After a Trip

2011-07-05T21:58:00.000-04:00

Genius Organizing shared great packing advice at MomTrends Travel event.

Funny that I should post this on the eve that I leave for Evo '11. Tonight, I was all about their r motto which is "Work smart, not hard."

One of my favorite packing tips that I learned is to make a travel box. It seems like a great way to remind you of all the necessities you need. The idea is that as you prepare for the trip throughout the week, you can put stuff in as you think of it. Things such as passports and bugspray can be ready in the box. The last couple of nights, I used a laundry basket. As I folded something from the dryer, I put it in the Evo basket. As I gathered my mini toothpaste and hair accessories, I threw it in the basket. So smart!

Container store - Pack This - This is a notepad that lists all the important items that you will need to gather for your trip. I will have to check it out for my next trip. I must say that my mother had made her own list years ago and just made copies every time we went somewhere. She actually had a winter list and a summer list. She must have been ahead of the times.

Use a "Head to Toe" countdown - This is what I did instead of a list for this trip. Start at your head and think of all the things you need and go down your body so that you do not forget anything. It works!

Keep toiletries packed - What a great idea! Have a separate bag that you keep packed with your toiletries at all times. This way, you are always ready to go.

Good items to bring - Travel detergent, first aid kit, and an extra bag for a beach trip

Zen Class - a great item for adults and kids to keep all important things together. You can put it on the seatback in airplane

Advice for traveling with kids on airplanes:

Divide and conquer - parents a seat away so that kids are separated
Send 1 parent on plane - keep kids off as long as possible
Strap carseat with a bungee cord

When arriving at the hotel, unpack immediately. Get everything away so that you can enjoy the rest of your trip.

Advice for Photos While on Trip

Download during trip - use smaller memory cards
Change cards just in case you lose your camera
Separate hard drive for photos (I need to do this!)

Make sure to look everywhere when it is time to leave the hotel especially the outlets!

Stokke Pram Pack - This suitcase for your stroller is great to keep your stroller safe while in the plane.

If you are traveling in NY and headed to the Hamptons or Long Island, check out

Hamptons Baby Gear - "Don't stress, carry less"
There is a two day rental minimum. You name it, they have all the baby items that you will need. Who wants to schlep all these items out. Let them bring it to your destination for you and have a vacation that is stress free. I wish I was headed out east this summer!

Photo Tips when Traveling with Kids

2011-07-04T01:37:00.000-04:00

Photography Family Travel Tips were shared at the Momtrends Travel event by Bellamy Blue Photography.

When listening to the great tips, I really thought they were speaking to me. How do they know that I need these kind of reminders? It turns out, there are others like me who could benefit from this great advice.

Be prepared - Don't forget extra batteries, chargers, memory cards, and card readers. I know that this simple reminder will keep you ready to go and save you from spending money on unnecessary purchases of said items

(This is so important that I had to put in red. I connect to this great tip!)

Perspective - get real low with a monument or get high depending on what you are taking a picture of

Here are some great ideas mentioned by Bellamy Blue to support kids with photography fun:

Allow for kids perspective photos- take detail photos "it's more about the moment than the place"
Vtech camera - two eye viewing makes it easier for younger kids to take pictures
Lomography Spinner- 360 degrees camera - a fun tool to use with kid
360 Panorama app on iPhone
use video and audio on digital cameras - great multimedia memories
Purchase a less expensive disposable digital cameras so that kids can use and you will not need to worry if they lose it

I am going to try some of these out as we venture here and there this summer. I really like the idea of purchasing a disposable digital camera for kids. Am I the only one who might have sent my 7 year old with my camera and card full of 1000s of pics on a field trip? Never again!

Do you have any photo tips that you would like to share?

Travel Ideas and Getaways around NYC

2011-07-03T23:34:00.002-04:00

Vacation is such a wonderful word! Taking a break from the everyday is a great way to revive the family. It is the planning and preparation that I do my best to avoid.

I have to admit that while vacation is exciting, the before and after has always been daunting for me. I am a poor packer and unpacker. I procrastinate not knowing where to begin. I love to take photos while away, but I usually keep them in the camera. I feel like that commercial where every important milestone is stuck in the camera hoping not to be deleted.

This post will be one of a series of travel ideas learned at the MomTrends event.

MomTrends, Nicole Feliciano hosted a Travel event at Azure, a 34-story luxury residential building located at 333 East 91st Street on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.

Our first presentation was by Alison Lowenstein, author of City Weekends: The Greatest Escapes and Weekend Getaways in and around NYC. Alison tries to find unique weekend getaways within three hours of the city.

Here are some tips that Alison shared when traveling with kids:

Hotel breakfast is bargaining chip: if you behave, you can choose what you want to eat
Give your kids a camera and let them take lots of pictures
Memberships: while visiting new places, always ask if they have reciprocal programs Memberships that you have a local venues might give you free admittance to new places of interest on vacation
Don't keep schedules on vacation
Naptime - When traveling with kids, it might be more important to find a hotel with space than finding one with lots of amenities

Alison's tips for kids on airplanes:

Jet blue tv
Pack snacks
Bring new magazines such as Highlights or Puzzlemania

Some of Alison's local getaway favorites

Drive in - Warwick, NY
Drive in Shankweiler's - PA
Montauk Manor (Head out in September)
Roosevelt Inn - Hyde Park, NY - near Culinary Institute
Storm King Art Center - Hudson Valley, NY
Madison, CT beaches

Alison shared NYC getaways that were all new to me. It looks like my three savvy ladies and I have a lot of exploring to do.

Wally Wonderbug Giveaway!

2011-07-02T00:05:00.001-04:00

Wonderbug Activity Center is Kolcraft's latest way to explore and learn. As a Kolcraft mom, I wrote a winning jingle awhile back in anticipation of the Wonderbug's release.

When my three girls were babies, I loved my activity centers. At the right developmental moment, activity centers allow baby to be in an upright position independently. Rotating around, he/she is able to explore and develop fine motor skills. I felt like this was a mom necessity from about 6 months to 13 months.

Here are the features of Wally Wonderbug that are listed on the Kolcraft site:

Features

WonderWorm sings, talks, and lights up to engage your baby
Batting butterfly has crinkle fabric wings and a mirror inside
Bee twists and turns with a big smile
Flower rattle includes textured grab handles
8 colorful toys have different sizes, shapes, movements and sounds
Toys have been tailored to help your babies development
Seat spins 360 degrees for full access to all toys
Height adjusts on seat to grow with your baby
Easy-to-clean toy tray
Machine-washable seat pad
Designed for ages 4 months old and up until baby reaches 30” in height
Approximate assembled dimensions: 27.25”W x 23”H
Disassembles easily for travel & storage
JPMA certified
Baby activity center requires 2 AA batteries, not included

Kolcraft is offering one lucky Raising Three Savvy Ladies reader a Wally Wonderbug Activity Center a Wally plush toy.

Mandatory Entry: Visit Baby Matters Blog or Kolcraft site and leave a comment on a blog post. This is mandatory. All entries will be disqualified if this isn't completed. Make sure you leave a comment here letting me know that you did.

Other ways to win the Wally Wonderbug Activity Center by Kolcraft are listed below.

Make sure to leave a separate comment for each additional entry:

* Follow me on Google Friend Connect located on the right sidebar and leave a comment below.

* Follow me @SavvyMomNYC on Twitter

* Follow @Kolcraft on Twitter

* Tweet about the this giveaway. You can click the twitter link below. Make sure you add @SavvyMomNYC to your tweet. Make sure your tweet has a link to the contest. Please leave a comment with the link to your tweet. Once Daily.

* For 2 entries: Visit Kolcraft on Facebook and answer one of the questions they have posted for the day. Then come back here and leave a comment letting me know the question and the day that the question was asked.

*For 5 extra entries: Mention this giveaway on your blog and leave a link so that I can check it out :) Please enter the link five times below in 5 separate comments.

Contest ends 07/12/2011 at 11:59 pm. Contest is open to those living in the continental US only. Winner will be chosen by Random.org. and will have 48 hours to repsond.

Fourth of July - Think Red, White and Blue!

2011-07-01T22:07:00.000-04:00

What are you wearing this July 4tth? Red, white, and blue of course. I always love to dress my savvy ladies in colors representative of the holiday. This weekend, they will be wearing different red, white and blue outfits. Having three girls makes it great to mix and match different accessories to finish off the outfit. I like to find these items way after season to get the best price.

Raising Three Savvy Ladies would like to wish you and your family a

Happy Fourth of July!

Red, White and Blue!

Even my Crocs are red!

All the girls took turns wearing this blast from the past Janie and Jack headband.

For some great Fourth of July crafts and cooking ideas, please visit my friend, Anna, at Random Handprints. Lots of great pics to get you in the creative Fourth of July mood.

Fun Flags and Fireworks for July Fourth - A few Ideas for Handprint Crafts and Cute Holiday Foods

For more food ideas, visit her at

More Ideas for July Fourth Celebrations - Festive Cakes and Jello Creations

Camp Mom at Kids 13 has some Star Spangled Silliness. From crafts activities to local places to visit, Kids 13 also shares some great ideas.

If you are on Long Island, check out Long Island Mamas Network:

Family, Fireworks and Fun- Things to Do this Holiday Weekend

Will you and your family be wearing red, white and blue this July 4th?

Baby Magic Gentle Hair and Body Wash

2011-07-01T00:50:00.002-04:00

Baby Magic Original Baby Scent was offered to me for review from Mom Spark Media. Two very important features that my girls need are tear/dye free and hypoallergenic. None of them like when soap gets in their eyes. It is also dermatologist tested and mom approved. I have used it on the baby and my older two for about a week now. I wanted to make sure that that it didn't react with their skin. Unbeknownst to me, Baby Savvy was already a fan of Baby Magic for a while.

As it turns out, the baby has actually been using Baby Magic wash on and off since about November. My sister-in-law helps me often and purchased a large bottle back in November so that she could give Baby Savvy a bath. She didn't even know she had purchased something different. So for about two to three baths a week, for about eight months, Baby Savvy has enjoyed Baby Magic during her bath.

Here are other features that Baby Magic lists:

Original Baby Magic Scent
Hypoallergenic
Tear-free
Dye-Free
pH balanced
Enriched with vitamins and aloe
Dermatologist tested
Available in 30oz, 16.5oz, 9oz

To find out more about Baby Magic products:

Check out Baby Magic's products on their website.

Baby Magic products can be purchased at retailers near you.

Follow Baby Magic on Facebook

and on Twitter

to stay on top of their latest products and promotions!

Disclosure: MomSpark Media provided me with this review opportunity. Thoughts expressed are my own.

Wordless Wednesday - Turtles in Central Park

2011-06-28T23:37:00.002-04:00

A lonely turtle frolicking in Central Park

Baby Savvy is Curious

Where dd the turtle go?

You Win Some, You Lose Some; but in the end, it was a lesson learned

2011-06-25T21:07:00.000-04:00

When I went to bed last night, I saw a card on my pillow created by my oldest savvy. A yellow sad face with the words "I'm So Sorry" written on it. You see, this has been the longest week. In addition to closing up the classroom and boxing up to move rooms, I also had many sleepless nights preparing for three days in a row of interviews that did not end up in my favor.

Photo from fotolia.com

My girls knew what was going on and were cheering me on. My husband had faith in me and was supporting me with getting them ready for bed as I prepped myself and prepared a lesson. Each day was filled with lots to do and the excitement and anticipation of wondering what was to come.

After feeling like I had tried my best, it all came to an end. I didn't get the job. Word spread at work like wildfire. My daughter was there and saw that I was upset. Was I glad she was there? Yes. Although
I was sad, all my colleagues came in an offered me words of encouragement. You see, throughout the week, they were rooting for me. People that I don't even talk to on a daily basis stopped in and said something like "You deserve this." "I hope I get to work with you." "You really know how to work with all kinds of kids." It makes me feel pretty special that they think so highly of me and that they know they can come to me for support.

I think that all my friends really made me feel pretty special this week. And my oldest got to see it all. I'm glad she got to see that sometimes, you don't always win. You can try your best and it just doesn't work out like you wanted. These are life lessons. I'm glad that she was there to see me try my best and that is what counts.
\

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T14:53:00.001-04:00

Happy Father's Day to all the great dads out there!

Here's to one savvy baby wearing dad!

I'm a Kids Club 13 Ambassador!

2011-06-17T17:11:00.004-04:00

Kids Club 13 has asked me to be one of their ambassadors! That means I will be sharing Kids Club 13 info and events with you such as the Angelina Ballerina event at Belvedere Castle in Central Park tomorrow, June 18 at 10:00 am.

Here is some information about the Angelina Ballerina event:

American Ballet Theatre and Central Park Conservancy join Kids Club THIRTEEN at the historic Belvedere Castle in Central Park. Bring your camera as Angelina Ballerina™ will make a special “meet and greet” appearance for Kids Club and Central Park Conservancy members!

Want to attend this and other 'Fun & Free' events? Join Kids Club 13:http://kids.thirteen.org/benefits/

In addition to the members-only meet and greet between 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., Kids Club families will enjoy royal makeovers - perfect for a close-up with Angelina Ballerina™! The first 25 member families to arrive will also receive a special crown, courtesy of Silly Creatures™ (www.sillycreatures.com), perfect for a royal photo with Angelina. (There will be two meet-and-greets open to the public at 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m., and they are first-come, first-served.)

And after a magical day in the park, Kids Club recommends the Saturday matinee performance of American Ballet Theatre’s CINDERELLA at the Metropolitan Opera House. (Tickets to this performance are not included with a Kids Club membership.)

Our friends at ABT are also offering Kids Club members 30% off orchestra balance section tickets to the June 25th CINDERELLA performance at The Met. Find out how to claim your discounted tickets here: http://ow.ly/4RoxM
In honor of my new Kids Club 13 Ambassadorship, Kids Club 13 is offering one PBS Kids Prize pack to a lucky Raising three Savvy Ladies follower.

The prize packs will include:
Between the Lions Plush toy
Cyberchase keychain
The Electric Company activity magazine
The Electric Company bookmark
The Electric Company Mad Libs postcard
The Electric Company usb flash drive bracelet with interactive game
Curious George poster
Curious George pinwheel activity sheet
Felt Gnome hat
Peep DVD episode screener
Design Squad Nation coin purse
Martha Speaks flip book
Sid the Science Kid sticker
Franny's Feet sticker
Fetch! pencil
Mandatory Entry: Please leave a comment letting me know what you like about PBS. Make sure you leave a way to contact you such as an email or Twitter handle in case you are the lucky winner.

Optional Bonus Entries: Please leave a separate comment for each one that you do.

Follow @SavvyMomNYC on Twitter
Follow Raising Three Savvy Ladies on Google Friend Connect. You can find Google Friend Connect on the right side of the blog
“Like” Raising Three Savvy Ladies on Facebook.
Visit Kids Club 13 website and let me know what event you might like to attend.
Follow @KidsClub13 on Twitter
Tweet about the giveaway adding the link, @KidsClub13 and @SavvyMomNYC to the tweet. Once Daily

An Example would be:

" Enter @SavvyMomNYC @KidsClub13 PBS Kids goodies #giveaway and Angelina Ballerina in Central Parkhttp://t.co/labSdYw #NYC"

Open to those in the US only. Giveaway ends on Monday, June 27th at 11:59 p.m. EST. Winner will be chosen using Random.org. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email before another winner is chosen

Disclosure: As a Kids Club 13 Ambassador, PBS offered me the giveaway for my readers. No other compensation was given.

My City NYC Sticker Book - 3 Winners! CLOSED

2011-06-15T23:59:00.006-04:00

New Keepsake Book Includes Famous New York City Landmarks, Bold Names, and Discounts at Local Attractions

Spirit of NY exhibit at Madame Tussauds

The Topps Company invited me and my savvy ladies to the Spirit of New York exhibit from the Madame Tussauds to celebrate the launch of the My City New York City Sticker Book. We had a great time meeting " iconic" NY figures. Middle Savvy kept touching because she couldn't believe they weren't real. Click here if you'd like to see more of our pictures from Madame Tussauds. The girls also enjoyed viewing the Happy Feet 4D movie that is playing at Madame Tussauds.

My City New York City is a keepsake sticker book that features New York City’s top attractions, encouraging readers to go out and experience the best of what New York City has to offer. The book will be available at retailers including Duane Reade, as well as New York City newsstands for $1.99, while stickers for the book can be purchased for $1.00 per 6-pack. The book and stickers will also be available at Topps.com.

From Lady Gaga to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, the Woolworth Building to Cole Porter, My City New York City features the people and places that make New York City one of the most exciting places on earth. Sticker packs for the book will also include discounts to a wide range of attractions, eateries, and tours including Lombardi’s Pizza. In addition, families who collect four special stickers dispersed at random throughout some of packs can mail them in to The Topps Company for an opportunity to win a New York-themed Grand Prize worth over eight thousand dollars. The prize pack will include special tours, gift certificates to New York City restaurants, tickets to sporting events, and more. The winner will be chosen on November 30, 2011.

On the train ride home, the girls sat together and began to find homes for the stickers. I enjoyed listening to their conversation of places that they remember visiting and places that they would like to go. The scavenger hunt also includes NY history. We are going to continue working on our My City NYC Sticker books this summer!

~~The Topps Company would like to offer 3 Raising Three Savvy Ladies readers their own My City NYC Sticker Book.~~

Here is how to enter: Random.org chose numbers 10, 1, and 5. Congratulations!

Mandatory Entry - Answer the question, "What is your favorite place to visit in NYC?".

Optional Bonus Entries: Please leave a separate comment for each one that you do.

Follow @SavvyMomNYC on Twitter
Follow Raising Three Savvy Ladies on Google Friend Connect. You can find Google Friend Connect on the right side of the blog
Tweet about the My City NYC Sticker book giveaway. Once daily. Make sure to include my twitter handle @SavvyMomNYC

Open to those in the US only. Giveaway ends on Sunday, June 26 th at 11:59 p.m. EST. Winner will be chosen using Random.org. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email before another winner is chosen.

Charly's Web - Quality Handmade Baby & Children's Goods and Giveaway

2011-06-12T23:58:00.002-04:00

Charly's Web is cute, quality, baby and children's goods.

Charly's Web is handmade blankets and clothing that are stylish and unique.

I was introduced to Charly's Web owner, Christine Aylward, through fellow blogger and Long Island native, Michelle, @queentob. Christine is a mom of three, just like me. She is a local Long Island mom residing in Suffolk County. She specializes in custom made children's goods that are way too cute. But what impressed me the most about Christine was the time and care that she put into each item.

Packaging is a first impression. Wrapped in tissue and tied with raffia, Christine sent a personal note with her business card. Neither item was wrinkled and you can tell she takes great pride in her work.

Christine sent me an embroidered shirt and handmade skirt for Baby Savvy to review. The colors are personal favorites and I love how she combined the fabric to make a trendy patchwork pattern. The embroidered strawberry on the shirt is also embroidered on the skirt too. The grosgrain ribbon enables you to make a cute bow and cinch the waist to the size you need.

The S stands for Savvy ;)

Charly's Web also has a unique bandana design line. Bandana bibs, blankets, and burp cloths can be found on her Facebook page.

Charly's Pies turn into cute bibs!

Charly's Sushi turns into bibs and burpcloths.

If after taking a look at Charly's Web on the website and on Facebook, you love it as much as I do, Christine is offering a 10% discount to anyone who mentions Raising Three Savvy Ladies.

~~Now it is Giveaway time!~~ CLOSED

Random.org chose #13 as the winner - Congratulations Meghan!

Charly's Web has offered one of Raising Three Savvy Ladies lucky readers a bandana blanket that will go perfectly for the 4th of July. If Martha Stewart knew about this, she truly would have put this hot red, white and blue number in her latest magazine.

It is a four bandana blanket. The front is the red and blue bandanas and the back has a nautical pattern. Charly's Web sells the four bandana size for about $25 but let it be known that it can be found for $40 to $50 in boutiques.

Here's how to enter:

Mandatory Entry - Head over to Charly's Web on the website or on Facebook and come back here and leave a comment about a favorite item.

Optional Bonus Entries: Please leave a separate comment for each one that you do.

Follow @SavvyMomNYC on Twitter
Follow Raising Three Savvy Ladies on Google Friend Connect. You can find Google Friend Connect on the right side of the blog
Tweet about the bandana blanket giveaway. Once daily. An example would be:

"Savvy 4th of July Bandana Baby Blanket #Giveaway by Charly's Web http://bit.ly/mCSlX5 @SavvyMomNYC Please RT "

Open to those in the US only. Giveaway ends on Thursday, June 23 th at 11:59 p.m. EST. Winner will be chosen using Random.org. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email before another winner is chosen.

Pre-K Graduation at Junior Wonders

2011-06-10T23:41:00.000-04:00

Pre-K graduation was held today at Junior Wonders Preschool in Pelham. My 5 year old completed three years of education and memories. I want to thank the teachers for a wonderful play based experience. This was our fifth year being a part of the Junior Wonders family. My oldest attended for two years. We will miss them as Baby Savvy will need one more year before we can enroll again.

Where did the time go? Congratulations to Middle Savvy!

My Three Savvy Ladies

Peepa will miss being my chauffeur.

Meema & Aunt L

Titi and her girls

Wow! Everyone is looking!

Congrats to my savvy grad!

Color It By Numbers Giveaway - CLOSED

2011-06-10T22:44:00.006-04:00

Color It by Numbers allows you to use the application to color pictures according to the numbers. Just like a good ol' paint by numbers kit, you are now able to do the same without the mess online. It was a big hit in our house!

My oldest enjoyed creating pictures on "Color by Numbers - Animals". The background music is peaceful and she enjoyed creating colored pictures of different animals.

My five year old was able to also independently use the application. She was very proud at herself for identifying the numbers and making a picture. One of her favorites was the whale.

I found it a good way to entertain and just enjoy creating some art work. You can follow the color pattern or you are able to choose your own colors. When they are done, it automatically saves their work.

In addition to Animals, Color It By Numbers also has Vehicles and Princesses. You are able to preview two coloring pages before having to purchase the application. The girls definitely wanted to check out the princesses!

Mommy's Links and Color It by Numbers has given me a code to offer to one lucky reader for the

Color it By Numbers - Animal application

Congratulations #11 Mamak - Random.org chose #11

Mandatory Entry: Leave me a comment letting me know what animal your child would love to Color by Number. It doesn't have to be one on the application.

Optional Bonus Entries: Please leave a separate comment for each one that you do.

Follow @SavvyMomNYC on Twitter
Follow Raising Three Savvy Ladies on Google Friend Connect. You can find Google Friend Connect on the right side of the blog
“Like” Raising Three Savvy Ladies on Facebook.
Join Mommys Links
Follow @Mommyslinks on Twitter
"Like" Mommy's Links on Facebook. Leave a comment on their wall letting them know Raising Three Savvy Ladies sent you
“Like” Color It By Numbers on Facebook. Leave them a comment on their wall letting them know Raising Three Savvy Ladies sent you and leave a comment here.
Open to those in the US only. Giveaway ends on Monday, June 20th at 11:59 p.m. EST. Winner will be chosen using Random.org. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email before another winner is chosen.

Disclosure: I received this review and giveaway courtesy of www.ColorItByNumbers.com through the Mommy’s Links Mom Blogger Network (http://www.mommyslinks.com/friends.html ) No other compensation was received.

Mom Central Not So Wordless Wednesday - What a view!

2011-06-08T06:23:00.001-04:00

Sheraton Mom Central and Internet Week 2011 hosted a Cocktails and Conversation at the Sheraton Tribeca Hotel on Canal St. This intimate gathering of a great group of bloggers really gave meaning to the importance of getting together in real life and meeting the women behind the blog or behind the twitter handle. I so enjoyed listening to everyone's story and learning about their true passion for blogging. It was wonderful to connect with friends and meet new bloggers too. Cocktails on the rooftop and sunset views of the city were a wonderful plus. Thank you to Sheraton, Mom Central and Digital Brand Architects for hosting a fabulous Internet Week event.

@Queentob and me

Sunset at the Sheraton Tribeca Hotel

Chili's Triple Dipper Good Things Come in 3’s - $20 Chili's Gift Card Giveaway CLOSED

2011-06-06T00:23:00.004-04:00

Chili's has always been a favorite restaurant of mine. They now offer the Triple Dipper - three appetizers plus three dips. Dip and appetizers..... Hmm! Or should I say, yummmm!

To make the perfect plate, I would love to see these three items on a plate: onion dip, mashed potatoes, and of course, pizza! Who doesn't love pizza - except for my cousin? lol! These have always been comfort foods that are enjoyable and bring memories of family get togethers and fun nights out.

When we went to Chili's over the weekend, my girls and I looked over the Triple Dipper and each made a selection.
Here are all the options that you can choose:

Baby Savvy is eagerly awaiting her share of the Triple Dipper!

• Loaded Potato Skins
• Memphis BBQ Skins
• Honey-Chipotle Shrimp
• Big Mouth® Bites
• Boneless Buffalo Wings
• Southwestern Eggrolls
• Chicken Crispers®
• Wings Over Buffalo®
• Fried Cheese
• Hot Spinach & Artichoke Dip

We chose Hot Spinach & Artichoke Dip, Fried Cheese, and Chicken Crispers.

Momma's favorite was the Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip. This is always enjoyable when going out. Since the girls are not spinach fans at this moment in time, more for me!

Oldest Savvy's top choice was the Fried Cheese. They are similar to a mozzarella stick and served with marinara sauce. She thought they were delicious.

Middle Savvy and Baby Savvy were big fans of the Chicken Crispers. I liked them too. They had a very unique batter. Baby Savvy was pulling the batter off and taking little bites. She was happy!

I'm sure you would like to head to Chili's and try the Triple Dipper too.

How about a $20 Gift Card to help you enjoy your visit?

One way is to check out Chili's promotion on http://www.shoutouttoeatout.com Ends June 30.

Once there, you are able to upload a photo and create your own trio. There are daily $20 gift card winners and a grand prize of $333.

Mandatory Entry: click this URL http://bit.ly/lmlDxZ then enter
Raising Three Savvy Ladies Leave a comment below letting me know that you did.

Other ways to win the $20 Chili's Gift Card:

Make sure to leave a separate comment for each additional entry:

1. Tell me your 3 favorite foods you would like to have all on 1 plate.

2. "Like" Chili's on Facebook

3. Follow @Chilis & @Shoutout2eatout on Twitter

4. Create your terrific trio located on http://www.shoutouttoeatout.com/ and comment with the URL link

5. Opt-In to Chili's email club here http://bit.ly/m6HYef (You'll receive a free appetizer certificate too!)

6. Tweet out this

"At @Chilis Good Things Come In 3's! Check out @2Wired2Tired http://bit.ly/linkyrave for 200 chances to win in the #tripledipper linky rave!”

7. Write a post on your blog about your 3 favorite foods you would like to have all on 1 plate and mention the Shoutout2eatout.com promotion. Then comment here with the link.

8. * Follow me on Google Friend Connect located on the right sidebar and leave a comment below.

9. Follow me @SavvyMomNYC on Twitter

For more chances to win a $20 Chili's Gift Card, check out 2Wired2Tired.Com's Linky

This giveaway will end at 11:59 PM EST on June 12. Winners will have 48 hours to respond before another winner is chosen. Good luck and thank you for stopping by Raising Three Savvy Ladies.

Disclaimer: I was provided with a $20 Chili's gift card for the purpose of this review/giveaway. All opinions and thoughts expressed are my own. :)

Verizon FiOS -How it Makes My Life Easier

2011-06-05T22:35:00.004-04:00

Verizon Fios has been at my house since the summer of 2009. When my husband said we were getting it, I thought what's the big deal? I had seen the commercials with the crazy lights coming from the truck. We did not have an HDTV for which I thought FIOS was used.
Do we really need to change? Will we really notice a difference?
The answer was yes. Clearer pictures and lots of great features that make my life easier.

So, here are my favorite reasons about how Verizon Fios makes my life easier:

1. One bill: TV, Internet, and phone are all on one bill: As a busy mom, this is a simple way to monitor the three together. Less hassle and less to forget.

2. Speed, speed, and more speed - Kudos to my internet connection! As an internet savvy mom, connection is key while toggleing through different windows and trying to monitor more than one site at once. I didn't realize how good the connection was until I used a friend's- Whoa! Reality check! Thank you for the speed!

3. Parental Controls - With so many options available at all times of the day; literally, AT ALL times, it is great to be able to monitor what the children are watching. There are even some "child-friendly" shows that just don't sit right with me. The characters belittle their parents and little brother. (I like to delete this show altogether!)

4. Widgets - WeatherBug and Traffic - My oldest is able to click on the widget button and give an update on what the forecast is as well as a quick snapshot of the local traffic while we are running about getting ready in the morning.

5. Social Media Options - It used to be that the kids wanted to watch TV all the time, but lately, it has been that they want to use the computer ALL THE TIME. My 5 year old wants to use my iPhone ALL THE TIME. She loves book apps. How can I stay connected?
Mamma finally gets to use the TV. And with the widgets, I can go check out Facebook and Twitter.

6. Flex View - Ordered a movie, and once again, I fell asleep! Now, with FIOS, that's OK! You can finish it on your phone. No biggie.

Those are my top reasons for enjoying FIOS. There are so many great features. I feel like I learn something new everyday! If you know of another great FIOS feature, please share it here. Always love to hear a new reason for enjoying FIOS.

Here is some reason that Social Moms shared about FIOS:

Why FiOS Rocks

Verizon’s advanced fiber optic technology lets you watch HDTV with less interruptions, pixelation, or weather interference.
FiOS is more weather resistant and more durable than the copper phone lines or coaxial cable .
With the massive bandwidth of a 100% fiber-optic network connected directly to the home, you’ll be “future-proofed” for all the hot new Internet tools and applications coming down the pike.
Verizon FiOS TV was rated #1 in value, overall quality and customer loyalty, according to the 2010 American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) Survey for the largest subscription TV service providers.
J.D. Power and Associates ranked FiOS "Highest in Residential Television Service Satisfaction in the East Region," three years in a row.
Watch this video of real kids talking about why FiOS is cool

Disclaimer: “I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Verizon FiOS sponsored blogging program. Any views, opinions or experiences expressed are my own.”

Wordless Wednesday - Baby Savvy is one of the Gang

2011-06-01T00:01:00.001-04:00

Top 3 Reasons I Love Mom Spark Media - Free 2 week Trial

2011-05-31T22:41:00.000-04:00

Mom Spark was a site that I found last July while looking for information on BlogHer and it did not disappoint.

As a new blogger, I was unfamiliar with all the lingo and parties and events and more parties. A true whirlwind experience!

Mom Spark had a forum where you could ask questions and keep updated on the latest BlogHer news. I even received an invite to an event through MomSpark.

So when Amy started Mom Spark Media, I felt comfortable paying the annual fee to learn more.

Why? Here are my Top 3 Reasons:

1. Education - There are classes and live chats where you are able to learn info such as SEO or creating Pitches.

2. Review Opportunities - There are always review opportunities to sign up for. I have been chosen for three different reviews.

3. And my favorite - Mom Spark is a social place where people connect and are not afraid to share opportunities. If approved, Amy also allows others to post PR connections to new opportunities. I have done a few other reviews from this. Thank you for costumes, Disney connections, and my latest favorite, Chilis.

Here is what Mom Spark is offering until June 2:

THE PROMOTION

For the next 48 hours, new members can sign up for MSM membership and test it out for 2 weeks. They get all of the benefits as a normal MSM member (i.e. classes, can apply for opportunities, etc.) for 2 weeks at no charge and with no obligation to join permanently.

After the 2 week mark, they can decide if they would like to continue their MSM membership (with a paid membership) or cancel.

HOW NEW MEMBERS SIGN UP

New members can only receive this special free trial if they are referred by a current MSM member (you) and must enter a referral code:

Enter Raising Three Savvy Ladies in the sign-up form.

Just remember that this offer ends Thursday, June 2, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. CST and new sign-ups MUST have the referral code: Raising Three Savvy Ladies

Disclaimer: If you sign up, I have the opportunity to earn referral credit for each new sign-up, whether or not they decide to stay after the 2 week mark.

Memorial Day at the Pelham Parade

2011-05-30T14:49:00.000-04:00

The Pelham Memorial Day Parade began at 11:30 on this beautiful day. The girls dressed in red, white and blue and were ready to go. I have been taking my oldest to the parade since she was in a stroller so it has become somewhat of a tradition to go to. Now instead of watching, she marches along with her karate school, Wisdom Way Martial Arts.

This tradition helps me explain to the girls the real meaning of Memorial Day which is a day to remember and honor those in the military who have served our country.

Getting Ready for the Parade to start

Waving the American flag

Thank you to our troops!

A Classic

You're a Grand Old Flag

Nostalgia

My oldest

Red, white & blue, we salute you!

Happy Memorial Day with Mema & Pepa

Disney Grand Opening in Palisades Mall & Giveaway - The Magic is Back - CLOSED

2011-05-29T22:49:00.004-04:00

The Disney Store is open in the Palisades Mall in Rockland County. On MAy 18, they opened their doors to welcome guests. On June 11, they will be having a Grand Opening celebration!

We love to shop and we love Disney. With three girls in tote, it is sometimes easier to hop in the car to shop rather than take the train into the city.

When we entered the store, we were amazed at the design and beauty. My two oldest enjoyed learning about all the interactive components of the store. While taking a first look at this new Disney, the girls enjoyed the Disney Princess Castle with Magic Mirror. When you choose a princess item and wave it in front of the Magic Mirror, the mirror magically brings you to a moment in that princess' life.

The next stop in the store was the Disney Store Theater. The girls enjoyed being one of the first guests to experiment and try out the new theater. You are able to choose which movie you would like to see and spend some time in the theater watching and coloring.

Baby Savvy got in on the action trying her best to stay in the lines - lol!

My three savvy ladies, me & Erin Fleischman

While visiting the Disney Store, we were lucky to meet Erin Fleischmann, the District Manager for Disney Store.
With more than 16 years of retail experience, Erin Fleischmann joined Disney Store in 2010. Erin’s favorite Disney character is Ariel from The Little Mermaid and she loves working at Disney Store because she appreciates the company’s commitment to better the environment and dedication to community outreach.

We also learned that the Disney Store’s new design concept aims to deliver “the best 30 minutes of a child’s day”. After visiting with my three girls, I would have to say that they succeeded!

As we left our magical visit that day, we received a gift bag for us and a gift bag for one of you!

One lucky reader will receive the following:

1 blue Disney Store Tote Bag
1 Mickey plush
1 Mickey journal
1 set of Mickey ears
1 – 20% off discount card

How to Enter:

Mandatory Entry: Comment below on who your favorite Disney character is and why.

Other ways to win the Disney Gift Bag of Goodies:

Make sure to leave a separate comment for each additional entry:

* Follow me on Google Friend Connect located on the right sidebar and leave a comment below.

* Follow me @SavvyMomNYC on Twitter

* Tweet about the this giveaway. You can click the twitter link below or copy

Disney Grand Opening in Palisades Mall & Gift Bag #Giveawaywith a 20% off #coupon http://t.co/lJBYlu8 #magicisback #westchester #rockland

Make sure your tweet has a link to the contest. Please leave a comment with the link to your tweet. Once Daily.

Contest ends 6/14/2011 at 11:59 pm EST. Winner will be chosen by Random.org. and will have 48 hours to repsond. Giveaways open to US addresses only.

ABOUT DISNEY STORE
The Disney Store retail chain, which debuted in 1987, is owned and operated by Disney in North America, Europe, and Japan. Disney Store is the retail merchandising arm of Disney Consumer Products, the business segment of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) and its affiliates that extends the Disney brand to merchandise. Disney Store carries high-quality products, including exclusive product lines that support and promote Disney's key entertainment initiatives and characters. Disney Store opened its first store in Glendale, California and, in doing so, originated the themed retail business model. There are currently more than 200 Disney Store locations in North America; more than 40 Disney Store locations in Japan; and more than 100 Disney Store locations in the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Ireland, Italy and Portugal, plus online stores www.DisneyStore.com and www.disneystore.co.uk. Each Disney Store location offers a magical shopping experience that can only be delivered by Disney, one of the world's largest and most successful entertainment companies. For more information, please visit www.disneyconsumerproducts.com/press/us/disneystore or follow us at www.facebook.com/DisneyStore and www.twitter.com/DisneyStore.

Peapod in NYC

2011-05-27T03:23:00.000-04:00

Peapod is an online grocery store that delivers to YOUR DOOR! Grocery shopping is a painful experience for me, I really would rather do any other mundane household chore than go to the grocery store. Now that I am a mommy of 2 little ones, that chore became the lowest of the low. How can I concentrate when I have 2 little people in tow? Enter Peapod! Simple and easy to use, you choose the items you want and for a small fee, your groceries get delivered right to your door. Want to save a few extra bucks? Hand over your coupons to the driver (they'll get doubled!!). Want more savings? be a little flexible in your delivery time and the savings keep coming! Sign up for direct check and you'll save an additional $1 off each order.
This to me, was all I needed to hear.

I tried Peapod and ordered just over a $100 worth of groceries. Everything was AS ordered, fresh and brought to my door (I chose NOT to have the groceries brought into my home, but they would have...). I did inquire about missing items, mistakes, broken/crushed items and was told my order was guaranteed 100%, with one phone call, Peapod would take care of any issue. The positives? Here's a few:

hand selected groceries by a highly trained shopper
less back and forth to the store (you won't forget the VERY item for which you went to the grocery store)
set a budget, watch as you add items to it, no overspending
no impulse buys
many organic options = HAPPY Mama!
coupons doubled
shop anytime!
filter your order to fit dietary needs with Nutrifilter
mobile grocery option
beneift of sales on 1000's of items weekly
unit pricing

The only negative I walked away with was that everything was packaged in plastic bags. This does not make a greenie mommy like myself too happy. I did inquire about this and the bags can be given to the driver to be recycled. The bags that do get turned in for recycling are then used to make trex products.

Peapod is a service that can benefit not only moms but those that are elderly, or rely on others to shop for them. Peapod gives back a little independence. Peapod saves time, money and a whole lot of hassle!

$15 off your first order, enter code PFC4
www.peapod.com or 1-800-5-PEAPOD (1-800-573-2763)
Delivery to ALL Manhattan zips, and all of NY suburbs too!

Fellow blogger Michelle, aka @queentob, attended the Peapod in NYC event and I am sharing what she learned. Her blog is Everything's Abuzz. I hope Peapod eventually starts coming to some Bronx zipcodes too.

Birthday fun at Bartow Pell Mansion

2011-05-25T00:50:00.000-04:00

Bartow Pell Mansion located on Shore Road in the Bronx was the ultimate tea party for my savvy 5 year old. It was an excellent find. All the girls came dressed for tea. The made beaded bracelets and took a tour of this historic landmark. I was so impressed with how the group listened and enjoyed learning about the past, I wanted to share with my readers. Thank you Bartow Pell for creating a welcoming atmosphere and a birthday party with style and class.

Sound Beginnings is Great Sound Delivery for Pregnant Moms

2011-05-24T23:53:00.002-04:00

Sound Beginnings is a prenatal sound delivery device that I learned about while at the A Child Grows Brooklyn Baby Expo.

Although I am not pregnant, that's right, are you paying attention?, I am NOT pregnant. I asked a fellow friend for advice and review of this tech savvy product. When I was pregnant, I always read about how important it was for the growing baby to hear your voice and listen to peaceful music.

If I had know about this when I was pregnant, I would definitely have tried it out. My babies had to listen to me singing in the car with the radio. This is a much more tech savvy way to bring music to you and your baby.

Here is the scoop that I am sharing from a fellow preggo friend:

Use a MP3 player that is fully charged. (Directions come with a word of caution to not use a cell phone as there has not been enough research on long term effects on a baby and cell phone signals.

The band is comfortable and that you can wear it for a long time. They do recommend that you only use for about 2 hours per day.

In addition to music, you can log onto www.Creative-baby.com and use the sound delivery service to record a message for baby. Step by step directions make it easy to follow.

Positve features were the ability to record your voice and the voices of relatives who might not be near by.

My friend like the bonding experience the most. Sharing music that you love using Sound Beginnings with the baby in the third trimester is a great way to get ready for the new arrival.

Four Reasons We Love AnnieWear animal-themed Clothing

2011-05-20T21:47:00.002-04:00

AnnieWear animal themed clothing was a perfect match for Baby Savvy.

1. Our first reason for liking AnnieWear is that she has fallen in love with the dog next door, Rodney. He looks very similar to Annie. Her favorite words lately are "Puppy", "Doggie".

2. When the onesie came for review, it did not disappoint. High quality and adorable! Underneath Annie's cute face, this lavender onesie says "Good girl" ! It is made from 100% ring spun combed cotton so it is very soft. This mom also enjoys that it can be washed regularly with out other items.

Baby Savvy was very happy to model and kept saying her favorite words.

3.

Another reason we like this company is because a portion of all AnnieWear sales is donated to animal rescue programs around the country. I am always happy to hear about companies that make smart decisions to give back.

4. Another great reason to like AnnieWear is that they are giving readers a 15% discount code.

PROMO CODE: BLOG2011

Offer: 15% discount

Madame Tussaud's Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-18T07:03:00.000-04:00

Visiting Madame Tussauds' Wax Museum in NYC

I Love Lucy!

Jerry Lee Lewis

Stylish on the Moon

Elton John

Somewhere over the Rainbow in the wax museum!

Excited to play ball with Derek Jeter

Best Mother's Day Gifts Ever

2011-05-10T23:50:00.000-04:00

The Best Mother's Day gifts are not store-bought.

Those are nice too of course, but when your second grader writes you a poem and your preschooler does beautiful artwork, how can you not tear up?

Moments I love with you

Oh what a magical mom you are

Marvelous Mom

I will remember you forever

Loving Mom

Oh What a wonderful mom you are

Very fun mom

Exciting Mom

You are the best mom

Oh all the things I do with you

Unique Mom

Not only is it the gift, but it is the look on their face when they give it to you. The children do amazing work, but I would also like to pay tribute to the teachers who make these gifts possible. These handmade gifts are created in the classroom. Acrostic poems are taught so that I will have poetry to treasure forever. Pictures are taken and papers are cut so that I will always have a flower memory.

What did you receive this Mother's Day?

PackIt Lunchbox Review and Giveaway - CLOSED

2011-05-06T00:10:00.004-04:00

PackIt is an innovative way to keep your lunch, baby bottles, or beach snacks cool. Instead of adding icepacks, you put the PackIt in the freezer and it keeps your items cold for up to 10 hours.

We have had a couple of warm days in NYC already and the PackIt lunchbox sure came in handy. Everyone likes a cool drink on a hot day. My oldest Savvy said that everything was cool at 12:30 pm. That would be at least 5 hours since lunch was packed. Very happy to hear that! Since the PackIt bag is what keeps it cool, you do not need to add messy ice packs which the kids tend to lose at school anyway.

I nursed all three of my girls and if I had a PackIt, this would have made my life much easier when traveling with milk.

I am eager to try it out on a hot day going to the beach. That will have to wait until school is out!

PackIt is actually running a pretty "Cool" special right now. You are able to get two for the price of 1!

That is only $20 for two insulated lunchboxes. Not bad!

Raising Three Savvy Ladies is lucky enough to be giving away one PackIt to a lucky reader.

How to Enter:

Mandatory Entry: Follow PackIt on Facebook and if you are on Twitter, follow FreezeandGo You need to do both and enter one comment below so that you are entered in the giveaway.

Other ways to win the PackIt . Make sure to leave a separate comment for each additional entry:

* Follow me on Google Friend Connect located on the right sidebar and leave a comment below.

*Like Raising Three Savvy Ladies on Facebook and leave a comment on Facebook. Then, leave a comment below too.

* Follow me @SavvyMomNYC on Twitter

* Tweet about the this giveaway. You can click the twitter link below. Make sure you add @SavvyMomNYC and @FreezeandGo to your tweet. Make sure your tweet has a link to the contest. Please leave a comment with the link to your tweet. Once Daily.

Random.org chose #14 - Congratulations Disneyfan!
Contest ends 5/20/2011 at 11:59 pm EST. Winner will be chosen by Random.org. and will have 48 hours to repsond. Giveaways open to US and Canada mailing
~~addresses only.~~

Disclosure: I was given a lunchbox review. We liked it so much that we are happy to giveaway one on Raising Three Savvy Ladies.

Giveaway: $250 Giveaway! Five Readers to Win $50 Gaggle of Chicks Credit!

2011-05-05T19:16:00.002-04:00

For moms looking to save some serious cash, Gaggle of Chicks is your site. Everyday you can save up to 90% on some of the best products and services for you and your family -- everything from mom-recommended organic foods, clothing, baby products, and more, to mommy-only deals like spa services, jewelry and more. Gaggle of Chicks’ bottom line is to save moms time and money!

Gaggle of Chicks also uses a new social approach to buying: if enough moms sign up for a deal, it "hatches" and everyone receives the discount. Plus, when users invite their friends and they make their first purchase, you get a $10 credit!

Gaggle of Chicks and Raising Three Savvy Ladies have teamed up to run a special giveaway! Five lucky winners will receive a $50 credit to Gaggle of Chicks.

To be entered in the $250 giveaway, join Gaggle by clicking here and creating an account. Five lucky winners will be selected at random. Giveaway will end May 20.

If you would like, you can leave a comment here too ( it won't count as another entry, but it is nice to know who is entering :) )

If you’re looking for other ways to win big, follow Gaggle of Chicks on

Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/gaggleofchicks)

and

Twitter (http://twitter.com/#!/gaggleofchicks).

Costume Super Center Website Review

2011-05-03T20:58:00.003-04:00

CostumeSuperCenter.com had such a vast array of costumes to choose from. I was given the opportunity to review a costume of my choice from CostumeSuperCenter.com. This time, I let Middle Savvy pick out one. She wanted a mermaid and when given all the options, surprisingly, she did not choose a Disney Ariel. She liked this regular mermaid the best.

This is the costume that she chose. The boa and wig are sold separately. It was very helpful to read the online reviews listed right below the ordering information. It seems that this costume runs large so we chose a smaller size.

I also noticed that they have Risk Free Shopping. If you need to return it, they pay the shipping both ways. I did a little research and found that not many online costume sites offer free shipping on costumes or the Risk Free Shopping.

Raising Three Savvy Ladies gives Costumesupercenter.com a two thumbs up!

Max's Pawsitively Exciting Book Tour - Stop 33

2011-04-30T23:08:00.001-04:00

Welcome to Max's Stop #33 on Max's Pawsitively Exciting Book Tour!

Glad you can join us at Raising Three Savvy Ladies!

We are so excited to be a part of Max's tour spreading the word about Leader Dogs for the Blind and Max's books!

Why did Raising Three Savvy Ladies decide to join the blog tour?

Good question! Many of my friends will attest to the fact that pets and Savvy Mom do not gel together. I never had a pet and have always felt awkward when a dog is jumping up to me.

I do not want my savvy daughters to feel this way around dogs, so I try to have them visit with friends that have dogs. We also love to read so reading about dogs is another way to learn more and help them feel comfortable around dogs too.

My two oldest are getting much better. Big dogs tend to be a challenge. However, Baby Savvy loves dogs and frequently says the word "puppy". Too cute!

When I saw the tweets about the blog tour, I thought this would be a great way to learn more about dogs with my girls and share some important info about Leader Dogs for the Blind. Now that my oldest loves to read, she enjoys reading two her two younger sisters.

Who is Max?

Max is an English Lab that is an award winning children's book and has a book series called, "Read with Max." Children and adults of all ages can relate with his stories, pictures and adventures told from his prospective.

Here is some info on two of Max's latest books:

Dogs Work Too! From Max's Point of View (February 2011)

Did you know that dogs work too? My name is Maximus, but you can call me “Max.” I’m a six-year old yellow English Labrador Retriever and I just went on an adventure. I learned about working dogs, especially Leader Dogs for the Blind. As you read my story, I’ll share my adventure with you from my point of view. If humans can work, then dogs can work too! A portion of the sale proceeds from this book are donated to Leader Dogs for the Blind.

Color With Max Activity And Coloring Book

Did you know dogs like to play too? My name is Maximus, but you can call me "Max" I'm a five-year-old yellow English Labrador Retriever and this is my first coloring activity book. I have put together some coloring pages as well activities from my last adventures for you to enjoy. If I can play, you can play too! Color with Max is a 16 page activity and coloring book featuring many adventures of Max as well his human and animal friends. Word finds, mazes, coloring, and other fun games are featured as designed by Max.

$50 Visa Giveaway from ReadwithMax.com

Max is also offering two-fifty dollar visa cards to followers of our tour.   In order to qualify and win, they must follow each blog site along the way.   Every Site will be assigned "MAX" Word of the Day" to be posted. Each word when put together in the order of the visits will make up a very very long sentence.  At the end of the tour the first two individuals that post the entire sentence correctly on the Read With Max Blog Website will be awarded the prizes.

Okay, here it is! Max's word of the day #30 is: read
If you missed some words along the way, go to  Read With Max  to see where to visit the blogs you may have missed.

Disclaimer: Raising Three Savvy Ladies is not responsible for this giveaway promotion, and comments left on Raising Three Savvy Ladies for the VISA Gift Card Giveaway will not be counted.

We are not responsible for the other blogs on the tour or for delivering the giveaway prize. For more information about this giveaway, please e-mail  max@readwithmax.com

Follow Max's adventures on Facebook.

Follow Max on Twitter.

Thank You to My Village - in honor of Mother's Day

2011-04-29T00:43:00.000-04:00

When asked to think of a woman who has helped me, I am left wondering who do I choose?

Raising three savvy ladies and working full time is not an easy task.

They say "It takes a village." They are right. Without out all my support, I do not know what I would do or how I would manage.

So today, in honor of Mother's Day, I write to honor the woman of my village:

1. Meema - My oldest daughter never said grandma. She said Meema and Meema it was. My mother loves all my girls and devotes much effort into making quality time with each one of them. Sleepovers, trips to the park, and cake making are some activities that my girls enjoy when they are with their Meema. I love you, Mom!

2. The Aunts - It is so comforting to know that there are others who love my children almost as much as I do. The girls' aunts fit into this category. The aunts have oreos when mom doesn't. The aunts give bubble baths when mom is exhausted. The aunts run out to Mr. Softee. The aunts get put the girls to bed. The aunts love my girls and support me 1000% I might not alway say it but I am forever grateful.

3. The Babysitter - I am so lucky to say that I have the same babysitter for 7 years. She has helped me raise all three of my girls and I am forever grateful. I have heard horror stories about sitters. Not my sitter - she gives me the low down on each of the girls and lets me know what I need and how their day was. She keeps me sane. During the day, I can focus at work knowing that my girls are safe and being caredd for.

These women in my village support this working blogging mom. I am forever thankful for their love and dedication. I honor each and every one of them today.

Happy Mother's Day to each and every one of you!

To view the Shop for a Better World / Heart Of Haiti collection, visit:http://bit.ly/gaalFP

Promocode: CLEVERGIRLS for 15 % off Heart of Haiti and Rwanda Path to Peace products

from 5/3 - 5/8

Disclosure: I was selected for this very special “CleverHaiti” opportunity by Clever Girls Collective, which endorses Blog With Integrity. All opinions are my own.

Pish Posh Mommy Diaper Clutch & Carryall - Love It!

2011-04-26T00:18:00.000-04:00

Pish Posh Mommy has such amazing necessities for a savvy mom on the go. Instead of a diaper bag, you can store all your items in the pockets and compartments of the carryall. This fits right in my favorite Kenneth Cole bag and also my oversized Vera Bradley spring favorites. The pockets keep everything organzied. I love how it holds the water bottle so that it doesn't spill and ruin your bag. Don't tell, but I love the pattern so much that I might use the diaper clutch for a mom's night out!

Disclaimer: While attending Getting Gorgeous with Degree, I tweeted about Pish Posh Mommy and won this bundle set.

Nature Mandala inspired by 15 Minutes Outside

2011-04-26T00:01:00.002-04:00

15 Minutes Outside by Rebecca P. Cohen was part of my wonderful gift bag from Getting Gorgeous. During this spring break with my girls, I took a look at some of the "365 ways listed to get out of the house and connect with my kids".

In April, the first activity listed is Create a Nature Mandala. Cohen states that Whitney Ferre, founder of CreativelyFit.com recommends exercising our right brains for more creativity. Turns out, I just started following Whitney on Twitter at @CreativelyFit - small world! A mandala is a circular pattern made from nature.

When my daughters went for a walk with my mother, they came back with some beautiful picked flowers. I showed them how to begin the mandala and what a fun experience it was. They were so proud of themselves when it was complete.

Doesn't it look beautiful?

Flip Out over Flipout Sandals!

2011-04-25T20:49:00.001-04:00

Flipout sandals were one of my favorite items that I received at Getting Gorgeous.

I was given a black pair with the two sets of the silver and gold flower.

Today was truly the first flip flop day here in NYC. This Savvy Mom needed to get her toes flipflop ready! So on they went and off to get a new pedicure for the last day of my spring break.

Lots of oohs and aahhs over my new flips as I showed everyone how you could change the jewelry depending on what you were wearing.

What they also like was that they were on sale right now and a pair with two sets of jewelry cost under $20. Then, you could pick other jewelry to adorn your toes from $9.99 - $24.99. They also have jellies and bridal designs.

Raising Three Savvy Ladies has a Promo code for 20% off your order:

Go to the Flipout Sandals website

Just enter SAVVYMOMNYC
and you will receive 20% off your cool new flip flops.

People will FlipOut when you tell them you can switch up the jewelry!

Disclosure: I was given a pair of Flipout Sandals at the Getting Gorgeous with Degree. By using the 20% off promocode, I will receive a percentage of the sale. :)

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T23:41:00.000-04:00

Happy Easter from my three savvy ladies!

Happy Easter from our family to yours! I think this will be one to remember. Getting three girls out of the house and all neat and pretty is a challenge. We made it to church, drove to visit relatives, and enjoyed a wonderful day. The evening culminated with all three girls taking a turn at karaoke. I loved watching and listening to them sing. Even Baby Savvy sang her favorite song "Daddy, daddy, dadddddyeeeeeeeee"
Hope the bunny was good to you and you enjoyed time with your loved ones!

Sweet Tweets - Give a little love in the Lunchbox!

2011-04-23T15:51:00.001-04:00

Writing a SweetTweet to Mema

Sweet Tweets by Bazooka Candy Brands offers a cute and yummy way to stay connected throughout the busy day. My oldest two Savvy Ladies and I were invited by Rolemommy to TasteBuds in NYC to learn about SweetTweets and how to incorporate the little candy love note into a nutritious lunch.

The girls soon learned that they were going to be preparing there own lunch. As a working mom, the prospects of them learning how to make lunch was truly a present for me. If you are like me, making lunch can become tedious and you often can get stuck in a rut when thinking about what to offer. (Kudos to SavvyDad who is the best lunchmaker in town, wink,wink; I am very lucky to have a husband who knows how to cook.)

Today, the girls would be using their culinary skills to create a Bento Box lunch with "Sandwich Sushi". They started with a bed of lettuce, followed by a fruit kebab. Did you know that you should eat all the colors of the rainbow for maximum nutrition? Using favorites such as turkey, carrot shavings, cucumbers, and tuna, they used one slice of whole wheat bread to roll it all together into their own sandwich sushi. With help, they cut the roll and arranged it in their Bento box. It was then my turn to write a Sweet Tweet to top off their healthy lunch with a little sweet love note!

Bento Box Preparation

A completed Bento box lunch with
a SweetTweet that says "Love you Lots! Mommy"

SweetTweet Notes are an affordable way to remind your little ones that you love them throughout the day.

Sweet Tweets™ will be available at retail and at www.sweettweetnotes.com for about $0.99 a pack (10 per pack)

For more information on Sweet Tweets™, please visit:

www.facebook.com/SweetTweets or www.sweettweetsnotes.com

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I did receive a goody bag of Sweet Tweets notes to continue to give a little love in the lunchbox. :)

Maritime Aquarium for Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-20T22:58:00.000-04:00

Sisters having fun at the Norwalk Aquarium

Wordless Wednesday - Getting into the Easter Spirit with MommysLinks

2011-04-12T23:33:00.000-04:00

MommysLinks hosted Breakfast with the Easter Bunny at Kids Fun House in Queens

Oldest Savvy enjoying the indoor playspace

Middle Savvy enjoys coloring eggs

Baby Savvy loving the toddler section

Simply Orange and BJs - Discovery at Getting Gorgeous

2011-04-12T17:23:00.000-04:00

Simply Orange juice is, well, simply good. I never tried it before Getting Gorgeous. Honestly, I wasn't going to pay the price to find out. When offered a coupon in my Getting Gorgeous goody bag and, of course, sampling the lovely drink at the event, I really liked it.
No Pulp is a must in my house. All of the savvy ladies, starting with mom, do not like pulp!
My next discovery came when shopping at BJs. I did not know that they sold 2 Simply Orange together for the low price of $5.39. Now that was a Simply Great deal!

Jumpstart Pet Rescue Wii Review and Giveaway - Closed

2011-04-12T07:37:00.002-04:00

Jumpstart Pet Rescue for Wii is another hot item from Knowledge Adventure. This Wii game is very similar to the Jumpstart Virtual Online World.

This Wii game was perfect for my four year old. It has an Early Childhood rating. Since she had played on the Virtual online world, she was familiar with the setup and style of games on Pet Rescue. It was very user friendly and really showed her how to navigate the areas.

Once again, creating your own avatar was a favorite. The games and adventures are educational and fun. Pet Rescue allows the player to play and take care of the pets. You can feed them by offering healthy virtual treats.

Did we like it? All Thumbs up! My daughter enjoyed her independence using Wii. There are so many other games out there that are too advanced for her to navigate on her own. Most other games that we have require an adult or older sibling to explain and set it up. My four year old savvy daughter was able to be independent on the Wii with Pet Rescue. Although she did not know it, she was working on games and activities that showcased fundamental learning skills. Knowledge Adventure was kind enough to host another giveaway on Raising Three Savvy Ladies. One lucky reader will win Jump Start Pet Rescue for the Wii.

Random.Org chose # 6 and that means Leanne won!

Mandatory Entry: ~~Follow me on Google Friend Connect located on the right sidebar of the blog. Leave a comment below.~~

Other ways to win the Pet Rescue for Wii are listed below. Make sure to leave a separate comment for each additional entry:

*Like Raising Three Savvy Ladies on Facebook and leave a comment here telling me that you like Raising Three Savvy Ladies on Facebook.

* Follow me @SavvyMomNYC on Twitter

* Tweet about the this giveaway. Make sure you add @SavvyMomNYC to your tweet. Please leave a comment with the link to your tweet. Once Daily.

~~Contest ends 4/28/2011 11:59 pm. Winner will be chosen by Random.org. and will have 48 hours to respond.~~

“Disclosure: I was provided with a JumpStart Pet Rescue Wii at no cost by Knowledge Adventure in order to test the products’ abilities and give my own personal opinions on it. The opinions I have given are mine and may differ from others but were not influenced by the company or the free product provided.”

Bella Bows - Baby Savvy Models a Tutu

2011-04-08T22:26:00.000-04:00

Bella Bows is what Baby Savvy is wearing. You can find her cute bows, headbands, and tutus on Facebook at Bella Bows Boutique. This 14 month old was not cooperative with the headband. She kept pulling it off. Check back and you might find one of her older sisters wearing it!

African Cats - Opening Earth Day April 22

2011-04-07T23:01:00.001-04:00

SEE “AFRICAN CATS,” SAVE THE SAVANNA

DISNEYNATURE ANNOUNCES COLLABORATION WITH

THE AFRICAN WILDLIFE FOUNDATION TO HELP SAVE THE SAVANNA DURING “AFRICAN CATS’” OPENING WEEK APRIL 22-28, 2011

ABOUT THE MOVIE

An epic true story set against the backdrop of one of the wildest places on Earth, “African Cats” captures the real-life love, humor and determination of the majestic kings of the savanna. The story features Mara, an endearing lion cub who strives to grow up with her mother’s strength, spirit and wisdom; Sita, a fearless cheetah and single mother of five mischievous newborns; and Fang, a proud leader of the pride who must defend his family from a once banished lion. Disneynature brings “The Lion King” to life on the big screen in this True Life Adventure directed by Keith Scholey and Alastair Fothergill (“Earth”). An awe-inspiring adventure blending family bonds with the power and cunning of the wild, “African Cats” leaps into theatres worldwide beginning on Earth Day 2011. For more information about the movie and the “See ‘African Cats,’ Save the Savanna” initiative, check out Disney.com/AfricanCats.

ABOUT AWF

Founded in 1961, the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) is a conservation organization focused solely on the African continent. AWF’s programs and conservation strategies are based on sound science and designed to protect both the wild lands and wildlife of Africa and ensure a more sustainable future for Africa’s people. Since its inception AWF has protected endangered species and land, promoted partnerships with the private sector for ecotourism to benefit local African communities as a means to improve livelihoods, and trained hundreds of African nationals in conservation—all to ensure the survival of Africa’s unparalleled wildlife heritage. AWF is a non-profit organization currently operating in 14 countries across the continent. AWF is a registered 501(c)(3) in the United States. Visit www.awf.org.

ABOUT DISNEYNATURE

Disneynature, the first new Disney-branded film label from The Walt Disney Studios in more than 60 years, was launched in April 2008 to bring the world’s top nature filmmakers together to share a wide variety of wildlife subjects and stories with theatrical audiences. “Earth” (opening Earth Day 2009) was the first film to premiere domestically under the new label, and garnered a record-breaking opening weekend for a nature documentary. Its “Buy a Ticket, Plant a Tree” initiative led to the planting of 2.7 million trees in Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. Hitting theaters on April 22, 2010, “Oceans” was the third highest grossing feature-length nature film in history. Its “See ‘Oceans,’ Save Oceans” initiative helped establish 40,000 acres of marine protected area in The Bahamas, preserving essential coral reefs. Walt Disney was a pioneer in wildlife documentary filmmaking, producing 13 True-Life Adventure motion pictures between 1949 and 1960, which earned eight Academy Awards®. For more information about Disneynature, check out disneynature.com like us on Facebook: facebook.com/Disneynature, and follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/Disneynature. For more information about the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund, please visit Disney.com/conservation.

AFRICAN CATS hits theaters everywhere on Earth Day, April 22nd!

Like AFRICAN CATS on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/Disneynature.

I was not compensated for this post. I am sharing information for a good cause surrounding Earth Day.