Minecraft Summer Splash

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A few weeks ago, Lola had the opportunity to participate in another Minecraft event hosted by Super League Gaming at the local Cinemark Theater in Bee Cave, TX.  Her and her friend spent every morning for 1 week at the theater working on their builds and gaming with other kids from all over the country.  They had a great time!  They were treated really well, had a lot of fun and made some new friends.  We highly recommend these tournaments when they come around.  This is the second one she has done and she is really looking forward to doing more in the future.

This time around it wasn’t just about the game, but they worked on tons of builds with an ocean theme.  The creativity of these kids and how they learn each others strengths and work together to complete these complicated structures is inspiriting.  Imagine if adults could always work together like that?!

So as summer comes to a close and school is just around the corner, we are grateful to Super League Gaming for giving Lola the opportunity to experience this event and look forward to more!

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Tres Lunas Resort Part 2

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(This is the second part of an article on our experience at the Tres Lunas Resort.  For Part 1 please click here.)

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Morning time.  After an amazing meal and dining experience the evening before, we awoke to a beautiful morning full of promise.  I was already trying to push away the feeling of sadness at having to leave this day, I promised myself I would savor every last moment.  Oh what a morning awaited us and I had no idea that the experience there would flourish even more.

We were warned that breakfast would be hearty.  That the morning meal is indeed a true feast.  We were not disappointed!
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When we walked into the main room, the smell of fresh coffee greeted us and the the table was set and ready for us to be seated.  Craig came out with fresh squeezed orange juice and asked us if we could spare some time after eating so we could all chat.  I was looking forward to that!  Within moments he sat before us a beautiful bowl of fresh fruit, yogurt and homemade granola which was followed by eggs cooked to our taste, homemade hashbrowns, bacon and a small skillet of biscuits.  The condiments were just as beautiful as the meal!  We ate until we couldn’t take another bite and after freshening our coffee, Carol came and sat down with us.  This is honestly when the entire experience really began I realized later.

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Carol is a breath of fresh air.  She has this amazingly positive aura about her and her smile just lights up the room.  Craig is a gracious and generous host who makes you laugh and feel at ease immediately.  That is a gift!  We had dozens of questions about how they got started, the history of the property and the resort itself.  Both Carol and Craig have backgrounds in the hospitality business.   Craig has worked for a few gourmet food companies and Carol is an amazing chef having taken classes with some of the top chefs in the world.  When they met, they dreamed of running their own establishment.  They had a few other bed and breakfast establishments before finding this magical piece of property.   The story is that Craig found this and within 30 minutes made an offer.  He knew right away this was the place they had to have.   Both are Hill Country proud and appreciate the history of the area, especially this area.  The original house that was on the foundation the resort now resides upon was a 2 story ranch house that had been damaged in a tornado at one point.  It sat on 100’s of acres that had been divided up by the family over the years.  The moment they saw the views and felt the spirit of the land, they knew this was the place.  It was a stretch with all the renovations they needed to make, basically tearing down the structure to the foundation and starting over.  But their dream was to create a retreat.  A magical place where people could come and feel their spirit renewed.  They want people to experience what they do, to offer them the ultimate in care and are obviously so grateful to be where they are.  It shows on their faces and in their voices.  There is an amazing amount of warmth and love that come from this couple.  It took my breath away to be honest.  So much Peace and gratitude lives in this home.

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As I mentioned in the first article, the resort caters to weddings and retreats (I will be doing a feature on this for the last installment).  One area that I fell in love with is the yoga patio.  Carol has so much experience in spiritual practices, traveling around the globe to learn from the masters.  She is truly a student of the spirit and freely gives all that she has been taught.  She created a place where yoga enthusiasts can come and practice their craft surrounded by this spirit of peace.  Everything planned to help with the hot Texas sun, to create a sacred space,  all geared towards maximum comfort and serenity.  Listening to her share her stories, I got goosebumps and a bit teary eyed.   If you go visit her, ask her to share with you.  They are her stories to tell, but I promise they will affect you in a way that you won’t expect.   She wants to share her love for life and the spirit with those who come to Tres Lunas and to help them find a restful and healing place in their lives…even if just for a moment.   And she is doing just that.  I can only imagine the healing she has participated in just by providing such a space.

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Our tour continued into their private quarters where I was greeted by beautiful works of art created by friends and Carol herself.  Her mother was an incredible artist and she has a few of her pastels hanging.  One of which was drawn on a piece of brown paper bag while on a picnic in those very same hills decades before.  It was of a beautiful deer found in the Hill Country.  The pastels were so soft and soothing and it looked like you could reach out and feel the softness of that creature.  Carol didn’t know that she would end up finding her home in that same countryside.  What a special gift!

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There is Carol’s office which is filled with prayer flags and a massage table, and yes, more beautiful art pieces.  Even their private quarters were designed for maximum serenity!  And I know with a resort you need a good size laundry room, but their’s made me completely envious!  So bright with windows everywhere….perfect place for Carol to paint as the laundry area only took up a portion of the huge room!

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Craig’s office is the ultimate of man caves!  Jason loved it!  Craig’s father and grandfather were both Texas lawmen and Craig was able to find an old jail cell that he restructured to fit inside his office as a guest quarters for family or friends!  It’s really awesome!  On the wall behind his desk hangs the head of a huge Longhorn.  Craig told us that someone had given the living animal to Carol as a gift at one time and they loved him!  He was their pet who they truly loved, and when he finally died of natural causes they donated 800 pounds of ground beef to the food bank in Mason, TX and mounted their beloved pet’s head on the wall of Craig’s office.  It is an impressive site!

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We talked for a good 2 hours about life, our backgrounds, our love for nature and art.  Carol and I especially found that we have so many similar feelings about our journeys in life.  I felt like I have always known her.  We all found we had so many things in common and I don’t think any of us wanted to conversation to end.  But as all good stories must wind down, so did our time there.

We left with our arms bearing gifts and our hearts filled with the brightness of new friendships.  I can honestly say we both felt renewed and so relaxed.  It was a true healing experience and one we hope to repeat in the future!  I am so grateful for the opportunity and for the compassion that Carol and Craig show to others.  It’s truly remarkable.  I promise if you make a reservation there, you will honestly be able to leave your cares and worries at the front gate.  Once you drive in, the magic begins and the spirit smiles down upon you.  It is a rarity in life to find a place like that.  I am grateful that we did.

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*All photos are credited to myself and Jason Locher.  Some of these were taken on my phone, hence the quality.  Look for Part 3 on weddings and products used at the resort!

Car Buying Advice From Ruby Davis

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Buying a car is huge milestone, but it’s an even bigger investment. Investing in the right car can save you money and give you peace of mind, UNLESS you happen to come across a greedy car salesmen who’s priority is not in your best intentions.

For female entrepreneur Ruby Davis, this scenario was one she was way too familiar with. After her own intimidating experiences by pushy car salesmen she self-funded ChickDriven.com.

Committed to offering a car buying service where women can trust and feel comfortable, Davis’ new website is a game changer for women everywhere.

Ruby has written the following article for AmLo Farms giving us some tips and ideas for when we get ready to purchase our next vehicle.

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Car buying tips:

When buying a new car, it is very easy for emotion to take over logic. However, a car should be a well thought out and rational choice. So how do you settle for the one that is right for you when there is so much choice out there?

Decide what kind of car do you need.

There are many different options available to suit your exact needs. First – decide what body style you want.

Convertible, SUV, luxury car, sport car, hybrid/electric car etc…

Take into consideration how many passengers you need to carry. If you often find yourself being the designated driver a convertible may not be the best choice for you because they generally have 2 doors and cramped back seats. If you have a long commute to and from work, make sure you choose a car that is fuel efficient. It may be worth your while looking into hybrid cars such as the Toyota Prius.

Decide what safety features are important to you, and always remember your car is responsible for transporting you and your loved ones. Safety features can save your life. How much garage or parking space do you have? I personally made this error. I moved into a new apartment in a new city and the first thing I did was rush out and buy myself a brand new BMW. Once I got the car home, I then realized the car didn’t fit in the designated parking space. Rookie error!

Set your Budget

Unless you are in a position where you can pay cash for your car, you have to think about financing your purchase or lease. So how much can you really afford in payments? I recommend no more than 20 percent of your monthly take home pay. While it may be tempting to spend a little bit more to get a nicer car, you would be better to put that extra cash in a savings account.

Compare Leasing and Buying

Leasing and buying both have negative and positive points. Generally, a lease requires very little down payment and offers lower monthly payments. However, when the lease ends you are left with no car and have to start all over again.

On the other hand, buying a car is more expensive initially and the monthly payments are higher. But when you pay off that loan – you still own the car.

Insurance

Before you decide on the car you want to purchase, check how much insurance is going to cost and compare it to some other car models. Sure, your dream car may be the Fiat Abarth however, insurance on the Fiat 500 may be cheaper.

Get 3 Quotes

Yes. It might take more time, but it gives you the power to know what price you should be paying and avoids you paying more than you should.

Negotiate

Even though there isn’t much room for negotiation on a lot of cars, if you don’t ask you don’t receive. Never be scared to ask for a better deal.

Don’t Rush

Walk away and sleep on it. The salesperson may tell you if you don’t buy the car right then and there the price will go up or they might tell you someone else might purchase the car. While this may be true, it is better to consider all aspects of the car instead of rushing into something you didn’t really want or can’t afford.

Don’t fall into the up-sell trap

Just because the salesperson tells you to get a more expensive car doesn’t mean you should. Salespeople are trained to get as much out of a sale as possible. If you don’t want extras, don’t be scared to say no.

Buying a new car can be a difficult process, but you can do it! Just remember to take a deep breath and take your time. It is never a good idea to buy a car the day you start looking, so take your time and don’t be afraid to walk away.

See more tips, ideas and reviews at ChickDriven.com.

Buzz Away Extreme Review

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The natural repellent that has you covered against bites for hours. Made from essential plant oils and other natural ingredients, Buzz Away Extreme’s safe, DEET-free formula wards off mosquitoes for up to 4 hours and ticks for up to 2 1/2 hours*. Why expose yourself and your family to harsh chemical products when a proven, natural repellent has you covered?

  • Handy pump bottle is ready whenever you need protection from buzzing outdoor pests.
  • Available in eco-friendly packaging in convenient pocket-size 2 oz (approved for air travel), 4 oz and 8 oz.

When we run out of our homemade spray, this is the one I reach for!  We always have a bottle on hand and it’s been effective 100% of the time!  So easy to apply and I don’t have to worry about my kids getting all the harsh chemicals.  I highly recommend!

The opinions and thoughts contained in this post are 100% mine. I only ever work with companies I support and think you, my readers, will like. Please read my full review and endorsement policy here.

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Tres Lunas Resort – Part 1

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This is not your typical review.  This is not your typical accomodation.  This is a true experience.   Part 1….

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Winding down a dirt road through groves of old Oak and Mesquite, you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere.  Cell service is in and out, forget about internet on the phone.  It’s just you and the red dirt and trees traveling to what you hope to be an oasis.  Don’t get me wrong, it’s beautiful in this part of the country.  Grasses blowing in the breeze at the foot of trees that have seen history.  Every so often a grove of cacti pops up, then all of a sudden the terrain changes.  There is water, springs rising from the ground.  Wild flowers take the place of much of the grassland.  As you come around a corner, a field of hay wheels stretches out before you.  This land is fertile and the greenery speaks volumes.  And then, you see the sign, “Tres Lunas” and you turn down an even narrower dirt road that runs straight through the ranch lands surrounding you.  This road is hillier and wild.  Just as you think you must have missed it, there she is…the gates marking the entrance to a place I can only describe as magical.  Tres Lunas Resort.

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The resort is small and very quiet.  We pull up and first thing we notice off to the side is the little stone chapel.  I comment about looking forward to wandering up there after we check in.  A farm cat greets us with a lazy “meow” and we walk inside.  First thing I felt is a sense of real peace.  This isn’t going to be just any overnight trip I realize.  This is an experience.  The Tres Lunas Resort Experience.  The dedication that went into creating a sacred space for guests is evident in every detail.  The Resort caters to not only couples such as ourselves, but true retreats.  A Wellness Retreat package, complete with yoga, massage and all your meals, is available as well as wedding packages and even a “build your own retreat” experience.  A welcome letter is waiting, directing us to our room for the night.  As we walk through the common room, Carol Conlee comes out from behind a curtain of beads in the far corner of the room.  Her smile is warm and inviting.  She greets us with such grace and explains more in detail what the letter tells us.  We look forward to sitting down with her later in our stay.  We walk into our room and immediately feel at home.  Every detail is taken care of from pool towels, to robes, to extra blankets and even coffee, tea and wine.  The bathroom is equipped with all the soaps and shampoos we need along with a stack of snow white towels and washcloths.

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Immediately outside our door is the pool so we waste no time in changing and going for a swim.  The infinity edge of the pool looks out across a valley of trees, cow fields and awe inspiring nature.  And as if specially ordered for our stay, dragonflies dance across the surface of the water with their wings shimmering in the sunlight.  A Sycamore tree shades a seating area off to one side and the wind blows through the leaves like music for the dragonflies to flit about to.  It’s almost like a dream staying cool in the blue water, looking at panoramic views and no one else around.  Quiet and peaceful.

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After a couple hours we head inside to change for dinner.  The dining area is in the same common room we passed through when we came in.  As we walk in, the smells from the kitchen hit us.  Something good is cooking in there and we realize we are the only ones dining in tonight.  There is one other couple staying but we so far have only seen them briefly as they are out exploring.  Classical music plays softly and we hear the sounds of happy conversation coming from the kitchen as the husband and wife team work together to create something tasty for us.  They are obviously very content.

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Craig Conlee comes out with a big grin and a cutting board with a steaming loaf of fresh baked sourdough bread.  First course has arrived.  He apologizes for dinner starting a few minutes late, they were waiting for the bread to finish baking.  Yes, this is for real.  As we sit down at the table, he comes back out with the salad.  Delicate greens drizzled with homemade balsamic dressing, cohita cheese and buttery prawns.  The prawns were surprisingly sweet and complimented the tang from the dressing and the richness of the cheese.  I could live off this plate everyday and be perfectly happy.

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The main course arrives and I think we both gasped.  There, sitting majestically atop a bed of jasmine rice was a beautiful salmon fillet covered in a cilantro, tomatillo butter sauce and accompanied by a side of poblano peppers, mushrooms and corn cooked to perfect texture in a spicy vinegar sauce.  The textures and spices worked in perfect harmony and each bite was better than the first.

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We watched the sun set, giving our stomachs a rest before dessert.  I have had the privilege of living in many places that held some of the most spectacular sunsets, this one was in the top percentile.  Looking out over that valley, we learned that the resort was built in relation to the summer solstice.  So on the actual soltice day, the sun sets almost dead center to the pool.  Every detail…..

Dessert didn’t disappoint!  Mexican bread pudding, homemade vanilla ice cream and fresh strawberries drizzled with chocolate sauce.  By the time we were finished I wasn’t sure if I could even move!  I was super relaxed, incredibly full and very content.  The memory foam king size bed was beckoning and we slept very well that night.

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Between swimming and dinner, we made a little trek to see the chapel.  Tres Lunas is a destination wedding venue when not spoiling travelers such as ourselves.  They cater to full service weddings as well as a romantic Elopement Retreat.  The chapel is simple and beautiful.   Small and intimate, I could imagine it lit up with candlelight and a beautiful night time wedding taking place in that wild land.  Romance for sure!  I could also feel the peaceful spirituality there.  What a place to bless a new couple!  I felt like we had been there before.  I was amazed that such a place even existed, yet felt so at home and happy.  Magic indeed!  I didn’t know what the morning would bring, but I felt something good was waiting….and I wasn’t wrong….  Next post will let you know how our morning went and how friendships sometimes start with magic.

To be continued…..

The opinions and thoughts contained in this post are 100% mine. I only ever work with companies I support and think you, my readers, will like. Please read my full review and endorsement policy here.

*Photo credits are mine, Jason Locher and Tres Lunas website.

Biotta Beet Juice Review

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“The beet is the most intense of vegetables. The radish, admittedly, is more feverish, but the fire of the radish is a cold fire, the fire of discontent not of passion. Tomatoes are lusty enough, yet there runs through tomatoes an undercurrent of frivolity. Beets are deadly serious.” Tom Robbins Jitterbug Perfume

The beetroot is the taproot portion of the beet plant, usually known in North America as the beet. It is one of several of the cultivated varieties of Beta vulgaris grown for their edible taproots and their leaves (called beet greens).

Although the leaves have been eaten since before written history, the beet root was generally used for medicinal purposes only until about 1800. The root adds flavor and sweetness to many dishes, and is often used as food coloring and dye. Many beet products are made from other Beta vulgaris varieties, particularly sugar beet.

Beets have therapeutic qualities as well and have been studied as an aid to lowering blood pressure.

A research review published in 2014 in Nitric Oxide, and a study published in 2015 in Hypertension, both showed that a diet including inorganic nitrates from beet juice can lower blood pressure; improve the ability to, and the duration of, exercise; boost oxygen delivery to the heart; and ehhance the general health of blood vessels.
(Everyday Health http://www.everydayhealth.com/columns/jared-bunch-rhythm-of-life/how-drinking-beetroot-juice-lowers-blood-pressure-and-relaxes-stiff-hearts/ )

Drinking a glass of beet juice may have an immediate impact on lowering blood pressure, according to a study.

The study shows that within hours of drinking it, beet juice lowered systolic blood pressure (the top number in a blood pressure reading) by an average of 4-5 points among a small group of healthy men.
(WebMD http://www.m.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/news/20121212/beetroot-juice-blood-pressure )

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Biotta Beet Juice is USDA Organic, Vegan and Non-GMO verified and the main benefits can include boosted stamina, improved blood flow, and aids in the lowering of blood pressure.

We were given a bottle to try for ourselves and I can tell you it is yummy! So far we have used it in smoothies and everyone has enjoyed it! I highly recommend this brand of you want to add some good alternative medicine to your life! Your heart will thank you!

The opinions and thoughts contained in this post are 100% mine. I only ever work with companies I support and think you, my readers, will like. Please read my full review and endorsement policy here.

Minecraft Super League Discount: Summer Splash

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#ad We are doing it again!  The girls loved it so much they are going back for more!!

The first and biggest recreational league where gamers of all ages compete, socialize and play video games on the big screen in movie theatres worldwide.

Now your family can play Minecraft in select movie theatres with Super League Gaming. Super League brings together gamers of all ages for a fun, social, face-to-face gameplay experience on the big screen with underwater themed maps and mods in a custom Minecraft adventure called, Summer Splash featuring Captain Sparklez.

HOW IT WORKS

Bring your laptop with Minecraft 1.9.2 installed and play first-person on your computer and then you wirelessly connect to Super League’s server which puts you and everyone else in the movie theater’s gameplay up on the big screen. Parents and siblings can attend for free to watch and cheer their gamer on.

Your gamers will play, collaborate and socialize on teams with 4-7 members their own age as they build, battle and use their creativity and imagination.  Super League even provides all the tech help and support making this a great family-friendly event.

THE LEAGUE ENCOURAGES SOCIAL CONNECTIONS & TEAMWORK

It’s all about teamwork and collaboration. Each player gets a free gaming t-shirt encouraging team building and camaraderie.

July 18  –  22, 9am  –  12 noon.  Get tickets athttps://superleague.com/buy-tickets  Save $10, use Promo Code:  USFAMILY10

ILounge

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Take summertime chilling to a new level with iLounge, the tranquil and fun way to enjoy all summer activities. Whether floating in the pool, relaxing on the beach or enjoying an exciting camping adventure, iLounge is the recreational accessory you want to have close by.

iLounge is an innovative, unique lounge bed that can be inflated simply with the swirl of a breeze, since it captures air for inflation. The product is made of a lightweight, Eco friendly, water resistant, and strong fabric that can withstand any type of environment, including rock and asphalt, and can hold the weight of a few adults. Features of the product include a water bottle holder, umbrella anchor, sun canopy, a waterproof pouch, smartphone holder, magazine pouch and bottle opener.

iLounge is available in an array of fun colors including Caribbean turquoise, electric coral orange, electric lime green and yellow, flamingo fuchsia, orange peel, peach cobbler, magenta, violet, peony pink and royal and powder blue. This item retails for $129.99.

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Tote your iLounge along on your next outing to the beach, favorite concert or festival and enjoy hours of inflatable fun, before easily rolling it up for easy on-the-go travel and transport.

Luxuriate with “Rest At Its Best” created by iLounge for a delightful day out with family and friends!

For additional information please visit: https://www.iloungeusa.com/

#ilounge @ilounge #iloungeusa #ad

Stojo Collapsable Cup

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Stojo recently sent me a cup to review.  I have been using it for a couple weeks now and love it!   Collapses down to about 2 inches in height, you can carry it with you easily and always be ready with your own cup.  1 Stojo can save over 500 disposable cups from being thrown into the landfills.  Very easy to use and transport, and ecologically sound!  Stojo are food-grade rated silicone cups and lids that are BPA-free, no phthalates, glue or lead, and made from safe, recyclable materials.

  • ULTRA PORTABLE REUSABLE CUP COFFEE. Collapsible cup expands. Coffee Cup has 3.5″ diameter and is only 2″ thick when collapsed. 12 oz cup.
  • SILICONE CUP breaks down for easy cleaning. Dishwasher and microwave SAFE.
  • Mugs made from SAFE, RECYCLABLE materials. No BPAs, phthalates, leads or glues.
  • FOOD GRADE SILICONE CUP AND STOPPER. Coffee mug has a POLYPROPYLENE lid and heat sleeve.
  • THERMAL POCKET CUP and travel mug is LEAK PROOF.

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You can find Stojo at Amazon and the Stojo site!  They are also coming out with a bigger cup, 16oz.  The Stojo Biggie! The Stojo Biggie is getting a boost with an Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign that is live for the next six weeks. Supporters and fans can take advantage of an exclusive pre-order pricing of nearly 50% off.

I am definitely getting the bigger cup when it’s released!  I am very pleased with this one!

The opinions and thoughts contained in this post are 100% mine. I only ever work with companies I support and think you, my readers, will like. Please read my full review and endorsement policy here.

 

 

“CURIOUS WORLD” SUMMER TOUR

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HOUGHTON MIFFLIN HARCOURT KICKS OFF “CURIOUS WORLD” SUMMER TOUR, INSPIRING PLAYFUL LEARNING NATIONWIDE

From story time to space ships, young explorers are invited to join Curious George and friends for immersive learning experiences in local communities.

This summer, HMH will take Curious World Tour on a nationwide adventure, popping up inAustin, Texas on July 6, 2016 at the Texas State Capitol and July 7, 2016 (location to be announced).

Global learning company Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (HMH) announced this week the launch of a new immersive and playful learning experience, Curious World Tour.

Kicking off at Brooklyn Bridge Park on Sunday, June 26, HMH will take Curious World Tour on a nationwide adventure, popping up in eight cities in Texas and California – San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, San Diego, Sacramento, Oakland, San Francisco and Los Angeles – throughout the summer.

In each market, HMH will work with local nonprofit organizations to donate books and resources while engaging families with kids nationwide. Curious World Tour was created in partnership with the Association of Children’s Museums (ACM), lending expertise in out-of-school and summer learning, and the Ultimate Block Party.  bringing deep experience in community-based playful learning experiences rooted in science and pedagogy.

“We know that children are born learning and that play and exploration are essential for healthy growth and development. Our goal with Curious World Tour is to bring unique, fun early learning experiences directly to children and families in their communities,” said Linda K. Zecher, President, CEO & Director of HMH. “HMH’s mission is to change lives by fostering passionate, curious learners, and our summer road trip is designed to engage, inspire, and remind us all that learning takes place everywhere.”

Curious World Tour will hit the road in a rugged, colorful vehicle that unfolds to create a mobile playful learning environment for children and families. Explorers of all ages are invited on a personal journey with beloved HMH characters like Curious George – who celebrates his 75th birthday this year – that will inspire them to ask questions, open their minds, and take a hands-on approach to the world around them through interactive, multi-disciplinary educational activities, including:
●      Curious World HQ: The welcome truck with a giant map featuring videos of children saying “hello” in multiple languages, where adventure leaders will give children the opportunity to plan and document their Curious World Tour journey with a Curiosity Log.

●      Story Camp: A tented library featuring HMH characters and award-winning stories – like Curious George, Gossie and Gertie, and the Five Little Monkeys – inviting kids to relax on tree-trunk stools and open up their imagination for story time.

●      Community Garden: An outdoor space for kids to engage in various food-learning exercises, such as planting their own seeds in a decorated pot that they can take home to water and watch grow.

●      Space Station: An extraterrestrial area expanding kids’ minds, encouraging them to think beyond planet Earth with the opportunity to make alien puppets, build space shuttles and learn about constellations in rocket ship light brites.

●      Jungle Jamboree: A play area with an open stage featuring special appearances by Curious George and others, where kids will learn about sound, rhythm and tunes on an interactive music wall.

●      #SparkAMind Color the World: A collaborative mural to help kids express their artistic side and learn about team work as they color in their favorite HMH characters alongside a local artist. Murals will be donated to education institutions and organizations that serve children and families in each local community.

“We are proud to partner with HMH and share the expertise of children’s museums in creating substantive and fun learning opportunities for families with young children,” said Laura Huerta Migus, executive director of the Association of Children’s Museums. “Curious World Tour is not only bringing HMH’s quality resources for families across the country, but is also making a great statement on the importance of play as the foundation of lifelong learning.”

In each station, young learners will be able to experience for themselves the power of playful learning inside HMH’s new interactive content service, the Curious World App.

This ever-growing library of learning videos, books and games for children ages 2-7, as well as inspiration for offline activities and tools for parents to be involved in their child’s learning journey.

Learn more about Curious World Tour here.