@LEGOKidsFest #Milwaukee Ticket #Giveaway!

I said I would and I am. Here is your chance to win two tickets to LEGO KidsFest Milwaukee! You know your little builder would be in heaven looking at all the amazing LEGO sculptures. Just imagine to look on their face when they see this brick pile!

Fill out the entry form below for your chance to win! Remember there are two daily entries! The more entries the better your chances! Have Fun and Good Luck!

Tickets are good for Friday June 15th. 

LEGO KidsFest Milwaukee! Tickets are on sale now.

I am sure most households reading this blog have some form of Lego bricks in their house. We do! Middle Man has really gotten into Lego bricks this past year, and we could be more thrilled to be attending LEGO KidsFest this here right in Milwaukee! :) This is going to a event you do not want to miss! Your child's inner architect will be smiling the whole time you are there. You will experience life size LEGO sculptures, LEGO Master Builders,Creation Nation, LEGO Games Arena and much more! I can not wait to see the looks on the kids faces when we walk in to the expo center. It is going to be awesome. 

Did you know these fun LEGO facts? 

More than 400 billion LEGO® bricks have been produced since 1949.

The LEGO® minifigure represents the world's largest population of people! Over 4 billion minifigures have been produced in the last 30 years. This is almost 12 times the population of the United States!

LEGO® minifigures are out of this world, literally. The 2 Mars Rovers have an image of the LEGO® minifigure etched into their front grill.

Approximately 7 LEGO® sets are sold each second.

There are about 62 LEGO® bricks for every one of the world's 6 billion inhabitants.

Laid end to end, the number of LEGO® bricks sold in a year would reach more than 5 times around the world.

There are 915 million ways to combine six eight-stud LEGO® bricks.

Children around the world spend 5 billion hours a year playing with LEGO® bricks.

With a production of about 306 million tires produced a year, the LEGO® group is the largest producer of tires in the world.

LEGO® is the contraction of two Danish words, "leg godt" which means "play well".

There are about 62 LEGO® bricks for every one of the world's 6 billion inhabitants.

19 billion LEGO® elements are produced every year. 2.16 million LEGO® elements are molded every hour, or 36,000 per minute.

The LEGO KidsFest is a giant traveling LEGO expo coming to Milwaukee’s Frontier Airlines Center June 15 – 17, 2012.  This hands-on, educational, all-ages LEGO extravaganza features millions of LEGO bricks not to mention lots of construction zones, dozens of life-sized LEGO models and displays, LEGO Ninjago and LEGO Games, group builds such as Creation Nation, live LEGO Master Builders, and so much more covering three acres of space. 

Five identical Sessions are available.  Tickets are $18 for kids and $20 for adults.

Stay tuned Friday morning for a giveaway good for TWO tickets to LEGO KidsFest Milwaukee!! 

Babadoo Designs {Review}

Although I maybe plain awful at sending out handwritten notes, I love stationary! Ever since I was a kid I used to collect stationary sets, all sorts of colors and styles. Whenever I had the chance to buy a little something at the store I would come back with more note cards and papers to write letters. I did buy a lot of candy too. ;) Now that I have grown up a little you would think that I would have grown out of this phase. Unfortunately, I still have this impulse to buy every piece of stationary I see. It maybe a little bit of a sickness. However I no longer sort through my collection and arrange it by colors and sizes...I leave that to the eight year old and her cute little note cards and letters. I guess it runs in the family. My new little obsession  is Babadoo Designs.

Babadoo Designs specialized in recycled stationary. You can find a wide variety if colors and styles on their site . You can buy yourself some personalized stationary or create a wonderful invite for your next event. I could spend hours, maybe even days poring over these designs. The modern color combinations and exquisite designs are so fun to look through. I am pretty sure my neighbor needs to get these for her husband for Fathers Day. ;)

Babadoo Designs has created a line that is superior to most. Their unique images are specific to their company only- you will not find these anywhere else. Using original watercolor painting, they then transfer these images to your beautiful products.  All of their stationary is 100% recycled materials- even the envelopes and labels! I simply adore my Babadoo Designs stationary and plan to use them again. The paper quality is great and the designs are so pretty, why wouldn't I?!


Connect with Babadoo Designs on Facebook and Twitter. You will be glad you did when that birthday party rolls around and you need that unique one of a kind invite!







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

Natural House Moppy Review

A couple months ago I was able to review Natural House cleaners Flushy, Trashy and Sinky. You can read more of my thoughts on these cleaners here. Most recently I have been reviewing a new cleaner in the Natural House family, Moppy. In our house we do not have one room that is carpeted. So, we mop a lot around here. Moppy just like all Natural House products are non-toxic, eco friendly and biodegradable. I love the easy to use packaging and the itty bitty waste they use when packaging these products.

Moppy, like several other Natural House products come in a one time use water soluble pouch. Simply place the packet in to your mop bucket and get to work! There is no pouring, no mixing, no spraying. Moppy is great to use on several floors such as high-gloss surfaces, terrazzo, marble, slate, vinyl, tile, and finished hardwood surfaces. In our house we have linoleum flooring in the kitchen and bathroom. I hate my linoleum floors. They are super ugly and always look dirty. Always. If we owned this place they would be the first thing to go, but we are renters and will deal with them. I decided to get after these floors with my new Moppy cleaner and see what I thought. I filled up my bucket and plopped in my moppy packet. Within seconds the packetwas foaming and the natural probiotics were ready to do their thing. Overall my floors for sure were clean. Moppy went to work and removed all surface dirt and other questionable substances. Unfortunatly these floors are so bad that I honestly believe that there is nothing that will give them that lovely luster back ever. Within moments after cleaning them they went right back to their pitiful state. With as pores as these floor are, I tend to wash them every couple days. Moppy comes in a 30 day supply, which contains 4 packets. For my living room, that is more than enough, but for my kitchen I would be able to use up the with in a week, two max. 

I wouldn't say that Moppy is a fail though, I just have really tough floors in my bath and kitchen. Since Moppy can be used on sealed hardwood, I will be able to continue to use Moppy on the rest of the house! Moppy did a great job on the rest of the house, cleaning them and giving them a nice shine. I cannot stress enough how much I love the packaging. It is so simple and when you are all done you are left with a snack sized baggie to toss. I highly suggest you check out Natural House for all your cleaning needs! You can connect with Natural House on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. 

What is the difference.

For the past year and a half Scott and I have been working together to advocate for our oldest. She is the only girl in the family and extremely bright. She is a smart child. She learned to read at three on her own, she was talking full and complete sentences by 18months. Her math skill are far beyond her age and she is reading at a post high school/college level. All that is great, I am blown away by her desire to be driven in these areas. Does that make her better or gifted? No. There are a lot of kids who are eager learners

What has us concerned and advocating for her is beyond her academics. Since she was about three we joked about her being a lawyer when she grew up. She has had mad negotiating skills at a very early age. She also has a perfectionist mentality and struggles with things not being perfect in a task she is accomplishing. It isn't OCD, it is a unique struggle within her being. My daughter does not play. She never has. Imagination is difficult for her, like a huge backwards way of doing something. She struggles with peers and thrives with adult interaction. School has been tough for her in several ways. Her school is amazing and I love the Montessori Method with all my heart. It is working beautifully for her and her younger brother. She can move ahead and work on material that is suited for her. There are minimal restrictions on what she work on and she is able to finish her task with out being forced to move on. It is a beautiful thing. We do wonder if it is the best fit for her. I spend countless hours wondering if she should be in a school with other like minded children. If I need to be around parents that are dealing with the same discipline issues and frustrations.

I have never really talked about things with my daughter openly because the topic of "gifted" children is often met with eye rolls and the never ending comparison of what their child is going academically as well. After hours and hours of research and conversation, I now know that "gifted" isn't a term for being book smart. Google it, you will see what I am talking about. When parents are advocating for their child with special need everyone rally's around them in support. You receive pats on the back and encouragement to fight for you child. When I am searching for help and support I get nothing but "all children as gifted" and eventually she will fit in. Well I am sorry that just isn't good enough anymore. I am going to fight. I will advocate for her needs because they are unique and special. There is no difference. All children need us to advocate for them. We need to push for the best match academically, socially and physically. That is why I chose to not push out summer birthday buy into K5 and let stay in K4 for another year. He needed that. I made a decision on what was best for him and his needs and I will do the same for my daughter. If that means a gifted school, so be it.

There is no difference when it comes to your child. Whether learning disabilities, physical ailments, autism, OCD, allergies...you name it, the lists goes on. So please do not judge me as I research what is best for my daughter because I am not judging you. I am cheering you on, because you are doing you job as a parent and you are doing it well.

Good Morning Fox6!

Good Morning Fox6 Milwaukee! I hope you enjoyed each of the products I was able to show you. I don't know about you, but I am so ready to get outside this summer! Here is a closer look at each of the products I talked about.

Drink-N-Plate

Drink-N-Plate is a durable reusable, dishwasher-safe combo plate and drink holder that is perfect for all outdoor settings. Held with one hand, the Drink N' Plate is a combination of plate and drink holder, allowing the entire meal to be carried conveniently and easily. $24 per pack of 8. 

Little Griddle 

Little Griddle is a line of heavy duty grill-top griddles that shatters all the conventional limits on cooking outside on your grill, allowing virtually anything to be cooked on any grill. There is a Little Griddle to fit any shape or size grill, round or rectangular, large enough to cook meals like a breakfast of eggs, hash browns, bacon and pancakes, a lunch of philly cheesesteaks or a dinner of the day’s catch, stir fry, burgers with sautéed onions, and so forth. Griddle your salmon filets with your favorite seasonings; there is no need to wrap them in foil. You can even bake cookies and pizza on your grill. It cleans up easily right on the grill, no need to wash in kitchen sink. $69.99 - $449.99 depending on size..

PlaceTiles

PlaceTiles are stylish erasable ceramic accent labels, perfect as table place cards for guests or as a descriptive accessory for each dish being served.  Great for outdoor use to avoid dish or seating labels from blowing over or away in the breeze.  No more cheap paper or plastic tags, PlaceTiles are a nice, personalized finishing touch for a dinner party, reception or any gathering, giving the VIP treatment to guests and highlighting each dish. Retails for $35 - $43 for a set of 6

ThermaCELL Patio Lantern

The ThermaCELL Patio Lantern is the best option for keeping mosquitoes and other insects away. The Patio Lantern is both a powerful insect repellent device and a stylish outdoor lantern, with both functions being usable separately or together. Providing a 15x15 ft mosquito-free zone, it is 98% effective (tested and used by the Department of Defense and the United States Army), making it the most effective insect repellent device on the market. It is also non-toxic, safe and non-intrusive, being DEET-free, silent, portable and odor free. Retails for $29.99

Sachi Fashion Lunch Handbags

Sachi Lunch Bags are insulated, fashionable lunch bags suitable for any setting. Stylish and roomy enough to double as a purse or handbag, while effectively keeping food hot or cold as desired. Easily wipes clean with a damp cloth. Handles fold down for easy fit in the refrigerator. Zips closed and handles fold down to the sides so that you may lay it flat, allowing for easy refrigerator storage. Comes in a variety of styles and colors. Retails for $9.99 - $25.99.

I willfully and excitedly jumped out of a perfectly fine airplane.

As you know, I went skydiving over Mothers Day weekend. Not a typical weekend unless you happen to be a ExtremeMom. I wrote last week about why I was doing it and how ready I was. To me the jump was very symbolical and meaningful after the events of the past year. This time last year Scott was looking for a place to live and I was preparing myself for the single mom life. I really can not believe that it has been a year already and at times I feel like it was so long ago. I know that our story is unique is not very common. Several of my ExtremeMom have been through similar situations with different results. If feel very blessed that I still have my marriage, but do know that there are many times when staying together is not the best choice. I approached my jump with celebration of such a miracle! I will admit that on Saturday morning I had some nerves. Thankfully by the time finished the garage sale, picked up Elliott from a birthday party and arrived at Skydive Milwaukee, I was surrounded by all the fabulous moms, my nerves were relieved.

I was on the 4th team of jumpers which meant a little bit of a wait. I kinda wanted to be first and get it over with! Since it worked out to go a little later with the fantastic Sophia, I was happy to wait.  Sadly the wait turned very long with the cloud coverage. So we pulled out the snacks and food and started with the potluck. Of course I didn't eat a thing. Instead Raichlen did, who had been battling a little bug. Before the little guy finished his food he tossed everything up all over the table. Nice. So, mommy brain no longer had to think about jumping from an airplane, because I was in sick baby mode. Between the vomit and explosive poop I was a little stressed out. I finally was able to relax and enjoy myself thanks to Scott taking over the sick babe. As soon as I was fully relaxed enjoying myself, the newly 8 ear old decided to push my buttons and start a massive sassy attitude. By the end of our chat, I realized she was nervous for me and needed some reassurance. As soon as that chat was over my name was being called and off I went to meet my tandem guy and suit up!

I meet Kermit, my skydive buddy, get dressed up and was off to the plane after a few hugs and kisses from the kids and Scott. The plane ride was not at all what I was expecting! I of course expected a take off and a gradual climb into the sky. What I didn't calculate, was that we would be climbing 13,500ft right above the landing area...that meant a very steep take off and a lot of circling as we approached out height. As we flew, Kermit secured all the clips, I put on my gloves and goggles. As we slid towards the door of the plane I was super excited and a little freaked out! I was worried that once I got there I would panic and not want to jump. The exact opposite happened! Sitting on the edge of the plane with my arms across my chest,  I couldn't wait for the big jump. Of course I didn't have to wait long, within seconds I was flying through the air, eyes wide open, taking it all in! I laughed, I screamed, I was overwhelmed by the beauty and sheer amazement of flying! I remember thinking a lot while plummeting. Then I started to go through all my reasons for jumping, and I was overwhelmed again by the blessing I have in my life. I had one thought that ran through my head over and over, I LOVE YOU SCOTT FISK. It felt so good, so right and just perfect.

 Mind you that was all during the free fall. Roughly 50 seconds at 125 mph. Once the parachute open and we started floating, the beauty changed and became a little stiller. For a few seconds I was able to hold the controls- that was terrifying! We did a few spirels till I thought I was going to vomit, then made our final approach for landing. I was sad to land. I could have stayed up there for a long time! All I can say is what a awesome experience. I highly recommend it. Even if you are completely terrified of heights, embrace it and just do it! I cannot thank my friends who supported me financially. I could not have done it without you. Everything about the experience was perfect and I am thrilled to say that I will be jumping on June 10th for a very awesome Extreme Mom project! I know I will be posting a lot more about that soon. :)

On the way home, Owen asked if I would give him my autograph. I think he was pretty impressed with his mama! Raichlen now believes that airplanes are for jumping. Whenever a plane passes overhead he says, "Mama, Jump Airplane?" I feel pretty proud of myself too and when ever I want to give up, like every run I do lately, I say to myself, "Um, didn't you just jump out of a airplane? Get your butt in gear and you can run!"

Announcing the Summer Celebration Event!

Happy Mothering, EcoCrazy Mom and Organic Mama are excited to bring you the Summer Celebration Giveaway Hop, which runs from June 21, 2012 12:01 AM EST to June 29, 2012 11:59 PM EST. The hosts are currently accepting blogger sign-ups right now! Click here for more information and to sign up!

I have some fabulous sponsors lined up! Seriously, I am really excited to share a couple awesome products to keep your babies (aka kiddo's) safe out in the warm summer sun! Come back in June to read all about them and win some fun stuff for your family!

You are invited to the #SimpleandEcoChic Twitter Party! RSVP and Attend to #win

I am thrilled to announce that Mary, Lovely Eco Chic and I are bringing you a fun filled twitter party! Come join us as we talk Cloth Diapers, Eco-friendly Periods and Green Living!

Fill out the Rafflecopter form below to RVSP for the party! Winners will be drawn at random and will need to have tweeted at least once during the party with the #simpleandecochic hashtag.

We are looking forward to seeing you there!

Drink your vitamins kids! {review and giveaway}

I know I am not alone when it comes to remembering things on a daily basis. I do remember to shower though. ;) What I have never been able to remember on a daily basis is taking vitamins. I may do alright for a week or even up to a month, then I fall off the wagon and have to start all over again. So, if I can't seem to remember to take them myself, you can bet it is even worse for me to remember to give the kids their vitamins! I do try...I just get busy around the house. I want to make sure the kids are getting the proper nutrients that their bodies need, I just need it to be easy to do.

Oxylent childrens vitamins are so easy to remember! (well easier) In our house we do not drink juice. The kids are allowed to have water or milk through out the day. I can not remember the last time we purchased juice. In the fall most likely to make apple cider. They do not seemed bothered in the least and I like that they are not pumped full of sugar. Since using Oxylent Childrens Vitamins, it is like having a special juice in the house! The kids even call it juice. Since it has become more of a treat in our house the kids are always asking for it, therefore helping me remember to give it to them! It is a win win situation. They like it and they help me remember to give it to them!

easy to use, single use packets

So what is Oxylent? 

Children’s Oxylent nurtures, strengthens, and protects growing minds and bodies, and is specially formulated for ages 4 years and over. Children’s Oxylent uses the revolutionary effervescent delivery system, which offers exceptional absorption of vital nutrients. Children’s Oxylent powder can be added to 4–6 ounces of water, with or without ice, for a great-tasting, nutritious, hydrating drink in delicious Bubbly Berry Punch flavor. Best taken with meals or snack, the product is guaranteed to be free of gluten, dairy, caffeine, and artificial flavors and colors. Each box of Children’s Oxylent contains 30 stick packets that are the perfect size for lunch boxes and little hands.

nice and bubbly!

I had to try this for myself, and the flavor is very good. The light effervescence gives it that fun flare for the kids.  I am glad to see the kids enjoying to take their vitamins again. I want their systems to be strong this summer as they are coming in contact with all sorts of fun things! Please remember that a daily vitamin does not replace vital nutrients that your child need from fresh fruits and vegetables.

Oxylent is offering a box of Oxylent to one lucky Simple City Life fan! Enter below to win!