PictureItPostage Review, Coupon and CASH giveaway

When I had children I became a narcissist. I probably was before then. But with children, the casual Christmas card (maybe I will/maybe I won't) mentality metamorphosized into a unique opportunity to blast the cuteness of my kids to 60+ of my closest friends and family. And to share Christmas joy, of course.

For five years, I've printed or ordered my custom cards. I've printed my own address labels and headed to the post office for sheets of holiday stamps.

But this year, The Motherhood and PictureItPostage whispered into my ear..."Create it and they will come...." So, with their encouragement and sponsorship I headed over to PictureItPostage.com. and I'm now patiently waiting for my personalized stamps to be sent straight to my mailbox.

My picture uploaded to the site in seconds. I had already jazzed up one of my recent vacation pictures, but the site also includes some basic editing software in case you need to make some last minute tweeks. With the touch of a button you get to see what your custom stamp will look like.

Not too shabby, huh? I'll admit, I did have some initial technical issues in getting my order placed, but the e-mail address and phone number for technical questions was easy to find. It could have been a browser issue. I was intially using Internet Explorer 8.0 and had a problem checking out, but I switched over the Firefox and didn't have a single issue. Additionally, there is free "designer" software available for download on the website which allows you to place an order on your computer without having to go online.

If you'd love to jazz up your own holiday cards, you can use the promo code MOTHERHOOD to get $4.00 of any order until January 31, 2011.The best part is, if you place an order using this promo code by December 15, 2010 you'll be entered to win a giveaway for a $500 prize! (See rules below).

And seriously, what grandparent wouldn't love to receive a holiday gift featuring their cherubic grandchildren? Or, surprise your friends or siblings with stamps featuring pics of their kids or pets for a holiday surprise...

OFFICIAL RULES
1. PictureItPostage by DYMO Endicia™ is conducting a $500 prize giveaway. All PictureItPostage customers who enter code “MOTHERHOOD” upon checkout for purchases made on PictureItPostage.com from November 17, 2010 through December 15, 2010 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Standard Time will be entered to win one (1) $500 cash prize giveaway.
2. One (1) winner will be selected at random on December 20, 2010 by PictureItPostage by DYMO Endicia, or DYMO Endicia’s designee. Odds of winning will be determined by the total number of eligible entries received. Winner need not be present at drawing to win. Winner will be notified by phone or mail no later than December 31, 2010. Entry into contest constitutes entrant’s permission for Endicia to contact entrant for sales and marketing purposes.
3. The prize package consists of one (1) $500 cash prize.4. Contest is open only to PictureItPostage by DYMO Endicia customers who are legal U.S. residents 21 years of age or older except employees of DYMO Endicia, its affiliates, subsidiaries, sales representatives, distributors, or advertising and promotion agencies and the immediate families and household members of each of the above. Contest is subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations. Void where prohibited by law.
5. No prize substitutions allowed except that DYMO Endicia reserves the right to substitute a prize of equal or greater value if an advertised prize becomes unavailable. All taxes on prizes are winner’s responsibility.
Sponsor: PictureItPostage by DYMO Endicia, a Newell Rubbermaid company, Palo Alto, CA 

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Dunkin' Donuts - Spooktacular Halloween Giveaway

Congratulations to our winner, Mami2jcn, selected randomly via random.org (1-99>76).

 Tis the season for Halloween galas, longer days (*yes, I know they're actually "shorter", but I am writing from the parent's perspective), and whiny children. Ok, maybe that last part is just me (...it's been a long weekend). I am so excited to be able to giveaway this fun and snazzy Halloween Trick-or-Treat bag, care of Dunkin' Donuts.

Sadly, I don't have one of these nifty bags to sample for myself - but I can say with much authenticity that I have sampled most products available from Dunkin' Donuts and I'd be delighted to win a Halloween Trick-or Treat bag containing a second bag, a one pound bag of coffee, and a $31 gift card to Dunkin' Donuts...(get it? 31...the 31st...?)

Think of the possibilities. Hoard it for yourself and get a yummy latte every day on your way to work. Celebrate the season with your family and treat them to some spookily decorated desserts. I happened to be in a store this past week and saw the posters for the Halloween themed donuts and munchkins. Seriously, they are every mom's kid's dream come true.

By the way - these Trick-or-Treat bags are new to Dunkin' Donuts-they won't even hit stores until October 18th. They'll come free with purchase of a 50-count box of munchkins or a 1 dozen box of donuts. I know what we'll be bringing to our friend's Halloween Party this Saturday ;)

Enter for a chance to win the Dunkin's Donuts Trick-or-Treat bag pictured above:

*1 comment = 1 entry. Go to town - enter as many times as you'd like

*5 more entries for followers of this review site. (you can just leave one comment letting me know you're a follower)

*Feel free to tweet this giveaway as much as you'd like for extra entries. Tweet must include @JulieBouf and a link to this post.

If you have a non-reply google account or don't have a google account - include some way for me to contact you in your comment (e-mail address, twitter handle, etc...if I don't already know you personally).Please leave a separate comment for each entry type.

This giveaway will close on October 23, 2010.

I received nothing for hosting this giveaway except a craving for a mocha latte and visions of orange frosted donuts dancing in my head.

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77kids Gives Back - Operation Gratitude

Two months ago, I (and 76 other bloggers) was approached by 77kids and themotherhood.com, to participate in a remarkable project. Instead of just promoting the opening of new 77kids Stores across the country, 77kids took the opportunity give back. In 11 different cities, 7 bloggers were asked to research, organize, promote, and execute a community service project of their choosing. I was lucky enough to ultimately join ranks with Liz Thompson of This Full House, Bay of Queen Mother Blog, Monica Brand of Paper Bridges, and Shannon Entin of Mom Improvement (and of course Cooper and Emily of TheMotherhood).

Our fearless leader Liz quickly shared her knowlege of Operation Gratitude, an organization near and dear to her heart, thanks to her brother's commitment to the United States Air Force. We set up camp at the Garden State Discovery Museum in Cherry Hill, NJ on July 15th to engage the public in writing thank you cards to our enlisted and veteran troops.

We doled out some goodies to reel in the do gooders

and tacked up our sign at the childrens' art station.

We were amazed at the eagerness and creativity of all the kids and adults who stopped at our "Gratitude Station."

Our littlest helpers got a thank you goodie bag.

And the grownups got 77kids store coupons, a $1bill, and a list of 7 good things to do for free and 7 good things to do for $1.

The kids were proud to put their finished products in our Operation Gratitude message box

and even more excited to get their faces painted by Liz's talented daughters (I know Katie was)!!

The 77kids Yummobile made an appearance and gave away extra nifty goodies like silly bandz and blow pops.

And Katie even auditioned for a commercial (knight costume not required)

Katie and I had a terrific day helping 77kids and themotherhood.com to "Do Good."

And I was inspired and amazed by my new bloggy BFF's ;)

(Liz, Monica, me, Shannon, and Bay)

(I was compensated for my participation with 77kids Do Good Day - sponsored by 77kids and themotherhood.com)

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Straight No Chaser - Ticket Giveaway

Congratulations to our winner, Wendy, selected randomly via random.org (1-14>6). Update: Wendy was unable to attend. Michele Schiffer was selected as the new contest winner. Congrats Michele!!!

 Top 5 Reasons To Go See “Straight No Chaser”

5. They have a great collective sense of humor and it comes through very well in their show. From their comedic playfulness during some of their songs to their audience participation stints, they’re funny.

4. You can play the slots afterwards.

3. You can bring your grandparents AND your kids.

2. TEN men, many single, with only a stage drop and 300 60 to 70 year old women in your way.

1. They’ve got incredible voices and are thoroughly entertaining.

Straight No Chaser’s gig at Harrah’s in Atlantic City is a “Through the Ages: With a Twist” performance, showcasing hits from the 50’s through today, with a unique twist. Their voices are smooth and engaging and I particularly enjoyed John Lennon’s “Come Together” … which has been a favorite ever since Aerosmith covered it on the Armageddon soundtrack. While the timing of the show was perfectly suited for the many grandparents and kids in the audience, I really wish it had been longer. I know. But I LOVE this stuff and I loved the show. I would have preferred some more full length current songs. You can hear clips from some great ones on their website and I was a little disappointed they didn’t sing the same playlist live.

If you liked these clips, even a little bit, you'll LOVE seeing them live.

Enter for a chance to win 2 FREE tickets to the Friday 7/30 Harrah's Atlantic City 8pm performance:

(Tickets will be left at the Box Office for you as Will-Call. Must present ID):

*Simply leave me a comment to let me know you're interested.
*Earn another entry for visiting sncmusic.com and leave me a comment telling me your favorite track.
*5 more entries for followers of this review site.
*Feel free to tweet this giveaway as much as you'd like for extra entries. Tweet must include @JulieBouf and a link to this post.

If you have a non-reply google account or don't have a google account - include some way for me to contact you in your comment (e-mail address, twitter handle, etc...if I don't already know you personally).Please leave a separate comment for each entry type.

This giveaway will close on July 27, 2010.

I was provided 2 concert tickets and an opportunity to interview the group. My interview rocked. I am the best most professional interviewer ever. You really don't want to miss it. Click here now.

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Yo Gabba Gabba! There's a Party in My City! PhiladelphiaTicket Giveaway

Congratulations to our winner, Heather of Girl Gone Mom, selected randomly via random.org (1-52>28-your following on Twitter entry was the winner).

Have you heard the giddy screams of toddlers and pre-schoolers everywhere? Ok, probably not...but in a real life scene perfectly mirroring the "Have you Heard About Hugo and Kim?" scene from Bye Bye Birdie - I saw the blogger forum pages take off like wildfire at the announcement that Yo Gabba Gabba! was about to tour...and maybe to a city near you. Of course, I added fuel to the fire with my not so tech-savvy friends. I ran from cube to cube to proclaim the news to my fellow mommy co-workers (we'll ignore the fact that the dads and parents of teenagers were either rolling their eyes or laughing at me). I phoned and e-mailed my family and friends until my fingers needed rest. This is the concert event of the summer. (Ahem...I will even be ending my Aerosmith concert weekend early to get back in time for Yo Gabba Gabba!) This, my friends, is dedication. Or fanaticism.

It's funny really, my introduction to Yo Gabba Gabba! was via a conversation with my sister after her vacation in the late summer of 2007. In her recap, she stopped to exclaim, "And have you seen that crazy new show that's on? As soon as I saw it I made the kids turn it off...it's awful." Her kids had found it on the hotel tv while away. Intrigued as to what had caused such a stir, I tuned in myself...and laughed - because I loved it. I loved the lessons. I loved that the characters used proper speech and did more than blink. And I love the music. The songs throughout the show, the focus on teaching about instruments, and guest musicians. Loved it! (And I think she realized it was pretty great along the way, too).

If you or your youngun's are fellow fanatics - you may want to check if Yo Gabba Gabba will be visiting a city near you.

But - if you are one of the very fortunate who live in the Delaware Valley - or a roadie who plans to follow the tour from city to city, I am happy to announce that they will be performing at the Mann Music Center on August 29th:

Fresh off a triumphant sold-out tour debut, a headlining performance at The White House, a critically-acclaimed, chart-topping album, and an appearance at Coachella that garnered rave reviews from spectators and media alike, DJ Lance Rock and the cast of YO GABBA GABBA! are heading back on the road with YO GABBA GABBA! LIVE!: THERE’S A PARTY IN MY CITY! to play to enthusiastic fans in Philadelphia. Today’s hottest live show for families will be at the Mann Center on August 29^th for two shows.  YO GABBA GABBA! LIVE!: THERE’S A PARTY IN MY CITY! is produced by S2BN Entertainment in association with Wildbrain Entertainment and The Magic Store and promoted by AEG Live & The Mann Center.

Champions on the stage and in the community, the Gabba Gang will partner with Habitat for Humanity to further their homebuilding efforts in Philadelphia.  In addition, $1 from every ticket sold for YO GABBA GABBA! LIVE!: THERE’S A PARTY IN MY CITY! in Philadelphia will be donated to the local Habitat for Humanity affiliate.

Tickets are on sale now. VIP packages with premium tickets and meet and greets will also be available. For complete tour, ticket information and VIP packages, visit www.yogabbagabbalive.com. Children under one year of age will be admitted free to sit on a parent’s lap.  

Enter for a chance to win 2 FREE tickets to the 8/29 Mann Music Center 5:30pm performance
(This is a Sunday night):

*Simply leave me a comment to let me know you're interested.

*5 more entries for followers of this review site.

*Extra entries for following @yogabbagabba on Twitter and/or likeing Yo Gabba Gabba on Facebook.

*Feel free to tweet this giveaway as much as you'd like for extra entries. Tweet must include @JulieBouf and a link to this post.

If you have a non-reply google account or don't have a google account - include some way for me to contact you in your comment (e-mail address, twitter handle, etc...if I don't already know you personally).Please leave a separate comment for each entry type.

This giveaway will close on July 30, 2010.

I was provided concert tickets for my family and 2 tickets to giveaway.

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Recess Monkey - The Final Funktier CD Giveaway

Congratulations to our winner, Sandy, selected randomly via random.org (1-22>17).

 Do you have a math and science whiz on your hands? Does your little one dream about space? Is the term goofball used a lot at your house? Does your kid dig a cool jive? I might have to recommend Recess Monkey's "The Final Funktier" to them.

Katie loves getting new music as much as I do and was thrilled to listen to "The Final Funktier" as soon as we received our preview copy. Unfortunately, we didn't get to listen to the whole CD for quite a while - because she loved the first song so much that she played it over and over again for several dance sessions. Finally, I popped it into the car CD player and we giggled and bopped our way through the entire CD.

Since this was our first experience hearing Recess Monkey, I'm not sure if the band 'o teachers' various CD's have a similar sound or the space age sound quality was especially produced for this science and space themed project. But it was cool. To quote my 5yo. Personally, I thought it was funky. Hmm, music derived to suit title or title just particularly harmonious? After we listened to it the entire car ride to our friends' house, Katie was eager to share the music with her friend on the next leg of our trip.

Recess Monkey will be performing in the Philly area on July 18th. Part of the WXPN XPoNential Festival, on the Camden Waterfront, Recess Monkey will perform at 3pm. (After our good friend Joanie Leeds). I am extremely bummed that I won't be able to attend the festival, but I am thrilled to be able to offer a reader their own copy of "The Final Funktier."

To enter:

*Simply leave me a comment to let me know you're interested.

*5 more entries for followers of this review site.

*Give me some comment love on my main blog, and I'll throw in an extra entry for each comment.

*Feel free to tweet this giveaway as much as you'd like for extra entries. Tweet must include @JulieBouf and a link to this post.

This giveaway will close on July 9, 2010.

If you have a non-reply google account or don't have a google account - include some way for me to contact you in your comment (e-mail address, twitter handle, etc...if I don't already know you personally).

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Joanie Leeds and the Nightlights Interview and Giveaway

Congratulations to our winner, Lynette, selected randomly via random.org (1-29>25).

This past Saturday, our family got to see Joanie Leeds and the Nightlights perform live at World Cafe Live in Philadelphia. We listened to the band's newest CD "I'm a Rockstar" on the way to the concert and the kids couldn't help but dance in their carseats the whole way there.

It's no surprise that the CD has been awarded a Parents' Choice Gold Award. As I listened to the first song, I thought to myself, "Wow, this is really a CD for me parading as music for the kids"... sort of like how I convinced Katie that the soundtrack of "Wicked" is really her music. But Katie was thrilled to find out that the band's repertoire also includes the cumpulsory "freeze dance" and "en espanol" songs.

The original songs on Joanie's second CD for kids vary in tempo and musical genre. So really, there's something for everyone. And I love that it exposes kids to so many varied types of musical influence so that they can be the ones to decide the type of music they like best. Katie is a huge fan of "I'm a Rockstar" and "Popcorn," but I have to admit I really enjoyed the witty "The Elf":

The cowbell was a huge hit with all of the kids in the crowd and, as a parent, my advice for the band would be to sell some cowbells after the show ... so that my daughter doesn't have to charm poor Joanie into letting her have her display cowbell. Thank goodness we were last in line.

After the show, we purchased a copy of the Joanie Leeds' first kid CD "City Kid." Personally, I think I prefer the first CD, but only because I genuinely just love the sound of her voice and appreciated her rendition of some kids' classics (along with more originals).

Joanie made herself available to graciously meet everyone in the audience after the show and even gave Katie a little VIP treatment by allowing Katie to try her hand at her first ever on-camera interview.

If you're in the Philly area and you missed Saturday's show, you're in luck because Joanie Leeds will be back in our area on June 5, 2010 to perform 2 sets at the Philadelphia Zoo during their Sunset Safari (special evening hours from 4pm-8pm). And Joanie, if you're taking requests, PLEASE play "Ice Cream"!!! on the 5th.

PLUS - Joanie provided me with a signed copy of "I'm a Rockstar" to giveaway to a reader.

To enter:

*Simply leave me a comment to let me know you're interested.

*5 more entries for followers of this review site.

*Give me some comment love on my main blog, and I'll throw in an extra entry for each comment.

*Feel free to tweet this giveaway as much as you'd like for extra entries. Tweet must include @JulieBouf and a link to this post.

This giveaway will close on May 31, 2010.

If you have a non-reply google account or don't have a google account - include some way for me to contact you in your comment (e-mail address, twitter handle, etc...if I don't already know you personally).

Tickets to Saturday's concert were provided to me by the band. I also received a digital download of the CD. My opinions can not be bought and I and my daughter are genuinely 2 of the band's biggest fans after seeing their fun and lively performance.

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