Giveaway: William Joseph CD BEYOND

Listen to: William Joseph

I’ve been searching for road trip music for all the many road trips I have planned this summer. I like to find tracks that go with the destination, kind of like my own soundtrack. I came across artist William Joseph, who released a new CD, BEYOND. I decided to do a little research on him and found out that not only is he a very talented pianist and composer, but he’s also a hottie (sorry single mamas, he’s married).

William Joseph’s new CD offers a variety of compositions, like the forceful “Standing the Storm,” the edgy “Asturias,” also “Heroes” and the dramatic “Kashmir” which is a reworking of the Led Zeppelin classic

William says the title track sums up the entire album for him,” If someone asks me what my music sounds like, I would play the ‘Beyond,’” He says. “Making this album took me on an intense journey through all these feelings that I feel –romantic, hopeful, excited, intense—and I hope anyone who listens can relate, and go on that journey with me.”

You can take William’s music with you on your own journey and it can be the soundtrack for your trip through the mountains, at the beach, or even in the air.

Five lucky readers can win a copy of Beyond just by leaving a comment telling us the destination that is top on your life’s list of places to visit. Giveaway ends on Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at midnight EST. Winners will have 3 days after initial contact to provide a mailing address or they will forfeit their prize. As always, US residents only and immediate family members of any Traveling Mama is ineligible to enter.

For more information about William Joseph and his inspiring music, please visit his official website.

Traveling Mamas On The Move Approved: Cold Seat

Here we are in the throws of summer. Swim lessons are in session, ice cream cones have melted all over my patio, and when I open my car door in the afternoon I get slapped in the face with a blanket of heat. As I write this it’s 104 degrees outside.

My kids dread getting in the car this time of year because they know how hot their car seats can get – that was until I came across the brilliant, and I do mean a brilliant, invention called Cold Seat.

The Cold Seat is a freezable seat cooler. Simply freeze the rolled-up Cold Seat then bring it along on your next outing. Cover the car seat when you get to your destination. Upon your return remove the Cold Seat, roll it up and store it. Your little one now has a comfortable seat to ride in. The Cold Seat has a Velcro tab to keep it rolled while stored and it fits easily underneath adult car seats. When you get home just pop it back in the freezer. (It fits nicely in my freezer door.) They come in the cutest patterns: Blue Camo, Sport and Pink Flower with little flip-flops.

The first time I put it to use I was so impressed how well it worked. It even kept the metal seat belts (which are normally on fire) a nice cool temperature. For the first time my little girl didn’t say “Hot!” when we put her in her car seat.

This is one product that definitely gets our Traveling Mamas On The Move Approved seal.

Shari Griffin, mom of two, is the brains behind this amazing creation. Nice job, Shari. Talk about a Super Mama!

Winning Wednesday: Father’s Day Lush Gift Box Giveaway

Welcome to another Traveling Mamas Winning Wednesday! This time, the giveaway is for the dads: A Father’s Day gift set from Lush. But this isn’t just any old Winning Wednesday – in fact, it’s my own dad’s birthday today, and it’s a big one, too! Happy Birthday, Dad!

Now, I’m not sure exactly what my dad is getting from my mom for his birthday, but this Lush contest giveaway will be great as a Father’s Day gift for someone. The Lush DAD gift box is a pretty package – er, make that a handsome package – containing Happy Hippie shower gel, Ice Blue soap, and a New! solid shampoo bar. To top it off, my favorite Lush massage bar has been added as well. The Wiccy Magic Muscles is amazing; relaxing and invigorating at the same time. So, who gets this Father’s Day gift set? (drum roll, please…)

Congratulations to M.E., the Winning Wednesday Father’s Day Contest Giveaway winner! The Traveling Mamas asked, “what is your ideal Father’s Day?” and M.E. answered, “It would be ideal to be heading down the open roads listening to Willy sing “On the Road Again”—and having the price of gas be as affordable as it was in our youth!” Good for you, M.E. Like most people here in the US, I can relate to the disgust, fear and wariness regarding gas prices. Remember when it went over 2 dollars a gallon, and everyone was upset? Now the average price of gas is double that in some areas. While there are ways to have a “green” road trip (and ways to help the time pass, and keep children entertained during car trips), I know we’re all hoping for a break. In any case, email me, M.E., and well figure out the best way to get your Lush gift box to you. Again, congratulations! And Happy Father’s Day from the Traveling Mamas. May your family trips be easy, fun, and memorable.

Father’s Day Contest Giveaway: Lush DAD Gift Box

Father’s Day is coming, and I still haven’t recovered from Mother’s Day. What’s that? Breakfast in bed? Oh, thank you, my sweet children – ugh, that’s orange juice on my sheets now, isn’t it? - you really are so thoughtful. Father’s Day is usually completely different; while the moms are typically given time away on OUR day, dads are expected to spend some real Quality Time with their kids. Sure, it’s archaic – a vestige of the days when most moms stayed home and most dads hardly saw their growing children – but traditions are traditions (dads still generally don’t take the weekend off with their buddies on Father’s Day). This year, add a little adult twist to that tradition with a Lush Gift Box for men. Lush is that handmade, organic bath and body products company we’re constantly raving about.

Those kind folks at Lush are supplying the Traveling Mamas Father’s Day Contest Giveaway with a DAD gift box. This box itself is brightly colored and fun to receive. Inside, you’ll find an Ice Blue soap, New! solid shampoo bar, and Happy Hippy shower gel. Ice Blue soap smells like peppermint and really is a nice blue color; I like the sea salt for its scrubby action too. The New! Solid shampoo is great for travel (no getting bothered by those TSA guys at the airport security line) and is made with organic peppermint and cinnamon, smelling mostly like cinnamon. It stimulates the scalp during shampoos. Last, the Happy Hippy shower gel is a strongly citrus-scented gel that can sub as a shampoo.

As if Lush isn’t happy enough to share their products for Father’s Day, they kindly threw in my favorite melty massage bar too. The Wiccy Magic Muscles massage bar heats to the touch (or the backrub) with cinnamon leaf oil, and aduki beans add pressure to the massage. I love the Wiccy Magic Muscles massage bar. A massage with this Lush bar would be the perfect way to end Father’s Day.

To enter to win this great Father’s Day gift box from Lush, simply leave a comment describing your ideal Father’s Day. The Father’s Day gift box giveaway is only open to US residents. Sorry, MudslideDad, you and other relatives of the Traveling Mamas may not enter this contest! For the rest of you, leave your comments below; the contest remains open until 11:59 PM Tuesday, June 3rd. And guess what? June 4th, the Winning Wednesday on which the contest winner will be announced, is my father’s birthday! Happy birthday, Dad. Hope Mom treats you to a massage.

Winning Wednesday: Josh Groban Awake:LIVE CD/DVD

I still HEART Josh Groban and our three winners from our giveaway will love him also, if they don’t already. If you aren’t a winner, never fear, you can watch a 20 minute video which is an excerpt of the DVD or just go visit Josh’s site and buy yourself a copy. It is worth the investment of less than $30. who are our winners for this great giveaway. Someone from Josh’s peeps will contact you by email to find out where you want your prize delivered.

Congratulations to Janet F, Holly, and Darlene Belle

MountainMama admitted to me that she listens to Josh Groban’s music before she gets on a plane. She says that it sooths and calms her before a flight. I wonder if she listened to him before her sky dive? Hehe.

Be sure to take Josh along with you on a romantic roadtrip or girlfriend giveaway. The Traveling Mamas will be sure to take Josh on our girlfriend getaway next week. Its a shame we won’t have the real Josh, but a mama can dream!

Winning Wednesday: A Journey into Michealangelo’s Rome

Ah! The romance and culture of Rome is something that needs to be seen with one’s own eyes. Angela K. Nickerson’s A Journey into Michealangelo’s Rome is the perfect guide to follow in the footsteps of one of the great masters of art. This 163 page Artbook Series publication by Roaring Forties Press is a must for lovers of art, history, and Italy. We had 107 entries for our giveaway and want to thank Angela for the wonderful interview.

An entry from Sandy Miresse reads, “I threw my coin into the Trevi Fountain but haven’t been able to return to Rome yet. This would be the next best thing!”

Judith Hopkins admits, “I never get tired of learning about places, people and happenings…this would be a fantastic read!”A few entrants were interested in this book for Father’s Day or just to reminisce about Italy.

Our winner, Amy, is visiting Rome with her husband this summer. This will be a fantastic read to take on your journey, Amy. Congratulations!

Be sure to visit Roaring Forties Press where you can get your own copy of A Journey into Michealangelo’s Rome and also take time to stop by Angela K. Nickerson’s author blog.

On the Move Approved – Kids Topics to Go, for Family Travel

There are several ways to deal with – er, I mean, enjoy – a family road trip. Keeping children entertained in the car is so important, because the incessant whines of “I’m bored,” “Are we there yet?” and “She’s touching my side of the seat!” make long car rides intolerable. Some of us prefer to plug the kids into portable DVDs and enjoy the ensuing peace and quiet. Some pass small toys back to eager hands, only to have them dropped into some inaccessible corner of the car floor. Some of us play Punch Bug, or other versions of I Spy. And some of us try to promote a little family bonding through conversation. That’s where Kids Topics To Go comes in.

Kids Topics To Go is basically a portable conversation starter; 40 questions come in a plastic case. I tested it out this past weekend, with the help of 6- and 9-year olds. They immediately opened it and decided to “play” by each reading a question to the other. Some questions they liked were “Would you rather see a movie, a parade, or a magic show,” “What makes you feel better when you feel sick” (listening in, I was hoping for “Mommy” as the answer, but they agreed that ice cream trumps all) “What would you love to invent,” and “Who is the funniest person you know?”

There are no inappropriate question here, the only caveat being that to fully participate, a child should be able to read at a first- or second-grade level. There is a version for teens as well, and several non-travel versions called Table Topics, with 135 question cards. I really enjoyed driving quietly, while my kids talked to each other in the back. It’s a card game with no winners or losers, a way for siblings to share their experiences, and a useful way to pass time during family road trips.

Best of all is the price. At only $9, it’s Traveling Mamas On the Move Approved.

Interview and Book Giveaway: Angela K. Nickerson

A Journey into Michelangelo’s Rome offers a fascinating exploration of Roman culture, art, and politics, as well as a visual feast of Renaissance art and contemporary photographs. Street maps allow the reader to navigate through the city and discover Rome as Michelangelo knew it and as it exists today.

Angela K. Nickerson is based in Sacramento, California; she regularly leads tours to Rome and other cities in Europe. She graciously allowed Traveling Mamas to interview her about Italy and her gorgeous new book. Read through to find out how to win a copy.

TM: What inspired you to write A Journey into Michelangelo’s Rome?

AN: I came to this project by luck, chance, divine intervention, and happenstance. I used to teach literature, and I developed a course called “The Bible as Literature.” To hook my students I used Michelangelo’s work as illustrations for the Biblical stories we studied. His frescoes on the Sistine Chapel ceiling and his sculptures of Moses and David all made wonderful illustrations as we encountered those tales. My students truly understood and thoughtfully considered the stories as well as the artist’s interpretations.

I’d been out of the classroom and writing professionally for a few years when Roaring Forties Press put out a call for proposals, but I knew that this was meant to be. A Journey into Michelangelo’s Rome is truly a fusion of my great passions: writing, travel, and art.

TM: How long did you have to research all the information?

AN: Because I’d done so much research as a teacher, I did not have to start from scratch. However, I spent months immersed in the 16th century reading everything I could find. I was very fortunate, too. Dr. William Wallace, one of the world’s leading experts on Michelangelo, was a tremendous help and led me to a few resources I might never have found on my own. I also know a few librarians who helped me track down some obscure documents.

But the most fun part of the research happened in Italy. Casa Buonarroti in Florence holds the largest collection of Michelangelo’s papers and sketches. It is a remarkable place to visit. And in Rome I developed friendships with several people who work for museums and Rome’s archaeological agencies. They were a great help in collecting information as well.

TM: Which chapter is your favorite?

AN: That’s a tough question. Each chapter is a story from Michelangelo’s life and focuses on the creation of one of his great works. If I had to choose, though, I would say that San Pietro in Vincoli: The Tragedy of the Tomb (chapter 4) might be my favorite.

In 1505 Michelangelo was commissioned to create a tomb for the newly-elected pope, Julius II. Julius II had grand ideas for his own memorial, and Michelangelo saw an opportunity for a lifetime of steady work. But it was not to be. Julius II’s priorities changed, and money was short. He redirected Michelangelo’s energies producing one of the world’s greatest masterpieces: the Sistine Chapel. And after Julius II’s death, his heirs scaled the project back further and further until the final installation (completed in 1545) was just a shadow of Michelangelo’s original vision. The story is sad and complicated and rich, but the pieces of art that were intended for Julius II’s tomb – Moses, Leah, Rachel, and the Captives – are fascinating.

TM: Do you feel these places would be appropriate for families? If not, why?

AN: Absolutely! Michelangelo’s work is very accessible for children. The stories are dramatic and intriguing, and his depictions are full of movement and life. Italian churches and museums are quite family-friendly, too. European schools often take field trips to museums, and they are used to accommodating younger patrons.

The key to traveling as a family in Italy is preparation, and having a theme for a trip can make it more interesting for everyone. Of course, I am partial to Michelangelo, but many children and teens recognize his works when they see them. Knowing that, prepare them a bit for your trip. There are several children’s books out on Michelangelo that can be great places to start. And once you are there, edit the choices you make. No one can go to every museum in Rome, so choose the ones that fit your theme.

The Vatican Museums, for example, can be overwhelming. There are thousands of pieces of art on display, and it can be over-stimulating for children and adults alike. However, hitting the highlights of the museum – including Laocoön, the Raphael Stanze, and the Sistine Chapel — rather than trying to look at every piece can make the experience much more enjoyable.

The families who have the most fun on trips to Rome have done a little work before leaving, preparing together for what they will see. And cater to your child’s interests. If your 6th grader is studying Ancient Rome, don’t miss the Forum and perhaps a trip out to Ostia Antica would be fun. Do you have a budding artist? Take along a sketchbook and make some time to sit and sketch together in the Colosseum or in front of the Pieta. Those impromptu art pieces make priceless souvenirs. Perhaps your 10th grader has been studying the Middle Ages in World History. Then don’t miss the museum at Castel Sant’Angelo. It has great examples of swords and armor and the building was the site of many battles and sieges.

Successful European travel with families is about pacing and preparation. But I see lots of families have a great time together in Rome!

TM: Will you be writing other books similar to this one?

AN: Yes. I am still not sure what my next project will be, but this was truly the best project I’ve ever worked on. It was incredibly fulfilling. I truly expect that my next project will somehow combine three things: art, history, and Italy.

Thanks to Angela for taking the time to answer our questions. If you would like to win a copy of A Journey into Michelangelo’s Rome then leave a comment or question and you will be entered into our giveaway. Same rules apply, as always. Contest ends May 20 at midnight and winner will be announced on Winning Wednesday, May 21.

Giveaway: Josh Groban’s Awake: LIVE CD/DVD set

I HEART Josh Groban. There. I’ve stated it to the world. I’m also excited to have a copy of his Internet Limited Edition CD/DVD Awake: Live which includes bonus tracks.

I listened to the CD this weekend while cleaning the house and boy does it have some tracks that are perfect for a romantic roadtrip. Josh’s silky sexy voice turns my knees to jelly. In fact, I almost didn’t get the house cleaned because I put in the DVD after I was finished listening to the CD.

Never fear, you have a chance to win your own copy. In fact THREE of you will have a chance to win a copy of Awake: LIVE. Just leave a comment about Josh Groban and his music and you will automatically be entered to win.

If you don’t win, you can still buy a copy HERE. And be sure to catch Josh in concert or even on the television. Check out this 20 minute AOL video: CLICK HERE TO WATCH

Contest ends at midnight on May 20 (tomorrow). We’ll announce the winners this Winning Wednesday, May 21.

Top 10 Summer Adventure Travel Destinations

This happens every summer: I get a new pair of cute sandals that fit nicely in the store, and then the first day out – bam! Sore feet and blisters. This may sound familiar to fellow fans of soft adventure travel. Non-stressful hiking, plus walking tours, pretty much make up the kind of summer vacation (non-aquatic) exercise I get. That’s why, for me, the who-knows-what-technology-based stuff that goes into Gore-Tex fabric, makes their shoes a real plus. The Gore-Tex fabric is waterproof and wicks away heat, and feels kind of squishy in the sole (but it’s not a gel-based insert, so the TSA won’t make you surrender you shoes on the airport security line). My Ecco and Clark’s shoes have the Gore-Tex insignia, and Merrell, New Balance, and Timberland brands also use the special patented fabric. The company joined with the Adventure Travel Trade Association to suggest a Top 10 list of Summer Adventure Travel Vacation Destinations.

Top 10 Summer Travel Destinations, via Gore-Tex and the Adventure Travel Trade Association

• Australia - From the walkabouts to the rain forests of Queensland to the Great Barrier Reef, there’s adventure travel of almost all sorts here. If shopping is more your summer vacation speed, spend that cash in Sydney and Melbourne.
• Brazil - The jungles here are disappearing at a rapid clip; tourist dollars may show the government a viable alternate use of this great resource. And the beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana are fantastic!
• British Columbia - start at my favorite airport hotel, and have fun in Vancouver, Victoria, and Granville Island for your summer vacation. Migratory marine mammals like whales spend their summers here too; they have the right idea!
• California - Even Los Angeles, with its sad reputation as a faceless city of strip malls, has some challenging hiking trails. I’d also suggest a drive north to Santa Barbara, my favorite spot along the Central Coast. There are also Napa Valley and other less famous “wine countries.”
• France - Can’t beat Paris as a cultural, historic walking city, but you might wear out your shoes trying to see it all. Then there’s Provence, Versailles, biking in the Pyrenees (bordering Spain), and the forests of Fontainebleau. Adventure travel and luxury vacations both fit together perfectly in France!
• Madagascar - The Malagasy, native to Madagasacar, could really use some tourism dollars. The forests of this unique island are disappearing at a pretty rapid clip, and ecotourism may help stem the loss. The lemurs, chameleons, and other interesting critters are endemic to Madagascar, and need their habitat to continue starring in all those nature specials.
• Nepal - Kathmandu is the star here, of course, though getting to Nepal is an adventure in itself. Nepal would be the right fit for someone seeking a special, unique cultural trip; if that’s you, visit Boudhanath Stupa, home to Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal.
• New York - New York City is hot, humid, and gross in the summer – I lived through too many summers there to be in denial. But the Hudson Valley, Niagara Falls, and Adirondacks region are all lovely.
• Norway - This one was included on the Top 10 Summer Travel Destinations list, presumably because it’s too dark and cold to vacation there in the winter. The gorgeous waterfalls and fjords can be toured via walking tours, or hiked and splashed in by more intrepid vacationers.
• Switzerland - An outdoor adventure vacation would feature a hike up the Alps, and possibly hang-gliding back down. Leisure travelers can explore Basel, Geneva, and Zurich.

These disparate vacation destinations were chosen by the quality of both adventure and leisure travel options. Factors considered include uniqueness and authenticity, adventure activity resources (bicycling, hiking, etc), need for sustainable tourism, and undiscovered or little known natural and cultural assets. I think this list represents a nice blend of very popular summer travel spots, and some that are less so.

And me? Well, I have 2 weeks of vacation travel in New York planned for this summer, one of which is in the humid stickiness of NYC. In August! Wish me luck.

On the Move Approved: Short Stuffs by Klutz

My kids and I love Klutz products. The irreverent activity books, nifty crafts and entertaining games come in compact kits or books that are ideal for travel.

Many Klutz items have accompanied us on road trips and plane rides. In particular, Kids Travel: A Backseat Survival Kit is chock full of games, puzzles, mysteries, quizzes, trivia and art projects for ages 6 and up. My daughter has mastered all of the moves illustrated in Cat’s Cradle, a board book that comes with a colorful string for making the figures. Both kids have made pictures with the portable book Hand Art, from Klutz’s Chicken Socks imprint for ages 4 and up. And the Klutz Book of Paper Airplanes makes an awesome birthday gift.

I always look forward to spring when Klutz releases its new products. Even though Short Stuffs: Create Your Own No-Sew Stuffed Animals is designed for kids as young as 4, my 8-year-old daughter got such a kick out of it. She spent at least a half hour stuffing little tiny pillows into the two “animal bodies” and attaching different felt arms, legs, ears and tails with Velcro to create colorful animals, like “Munchie Mouse,” “Chirpy Birdie” and “Playful Pup.” She enjoyed the activity so much, she brought the Short Stuffs kit to school for show and tell!

The instructions are all pictorials, no reading required. I can see how preschoolers would enjoy making animals for pretend play on an airplane or while strapped in the car.

My only caveat is that the pieces are small, and could easily get lost in the seat of an airplane or car backseat. You’ll just need to do a reconnaissance of all the parts and pieces after when it’s time to pack them away in the handy packaging. But there’s a lesson in responsibility and counting — 2 animal bodies, 13 felt pieces and 7 stuffing pillows in all!

Winning Wednesday: Tots on the Go

Wow! What a response for the Tots on the Go Giveaway!

We had two hundred entries and almost a thousand lurkers. The TrendyKid Trunkie TwoGo and The Go-Go Babyz Infant Cruizer were two of the top picks, but the number one choice for the prize ended up being KidCo’s PeaPod Plus.

There were some great entries, such as Cindy Beckman who commented, “Sit n Stroll by TriplePlay is absolutely wonderful. I wish it were around when I had my first child. Thanks for a great giveaway!”

Erin Daly said, “The Ultimate Toy & Travel Bag looks great for those long car rides this summer.” The Traveling Mamas couldn’t agree more.

Our winner for the Tots on the Go Giveaway is Elizabeth M, who stated, “I think the KidCo’s Pea Pod would be fantastic for traveling!” Congratulations Elizabeth. Tots on the Go will be contacting you to find out where to send your KidCo PeaPod Plus.

Thanks to everyone who entered and a special thanks to Tots on the Go for helping us with this great giveaway.

Zoobie Pets: Traveling Mamas On The Move Approved

From the moment my kids hear we’re going on a trip they begin packing everything in sight: books, toys, pillows, favorite blankets, and three or four stuffed animals each.

When I heard about Zoobies Pets I knew there was a good chance a huge portion of my problem had been solved. And I was right. What exactly are Zoobie Pets? Zoobies are a brilliant three-in-one stuffed animal, pillow and blanket.

The new Zoo Line came out this year and let me tell you, they are adorable. My daughter is in love with her pink Hada the Hippo (in photos) and my son thinks his furry Bobo the Baboon is the coolest (he even has a pink bottom!). Some of the others are: Jafaru the Giraffe, Winda the Wildebeest, Cheche the Cheetah, Mashaka the Monkey, Kojo the Croc (I love this one), Gogo the Gorilla, Rhaxma the Rhino, and my personal favorite, Tama the Tortoise.

Are you curious how this fabulous innovation works? Let me explain:

The stuffed animal keeps its shape via two Velcro straps. When you undo the straps the animal transforms into to a pillow. On one side of the pillow there is a zipper opening where inside you will find the softest fleece blanket you have ever felt. The blanket attaches to the animal with a zipper. This makes for super easy washing. The best part: the blanket is huge!

I am seriously considering snagging one of my kids’ Zoobies for my long flights to and from Hawai’i with my fellow Traveling Mamas later this month. Seriously, the blanket really is big enough for an adult and oh so soft.

If you are traveling this summer this is one Traveling Mamas On The Move Approved item I highly recommend.

1. Because Zoobie Pets are all in one you won’t have to keep track of several items.

2. Did I mention the blanket is super soft?

3. Zoobies are easy to use. When my children are ready to pull out the blanket they can do it themselves. Hada and Bobo even helped make a successful road trip.

4. No more airplane pillows and blankets. In fact, the last plane I was on didn’t have blankets and it was freezing.

5. There is a wide assortment of Zoobies to match every child’s (and adult’s) personality.

6. On one final note, this Traveling Mama says,

Zoobie, Zoobie DO!

Happy Travels!

Recommended Children’s Toys to Help Survive the Road Trip

Keeping the kids entertained on the road is a lot easier than it used to be, what with portable DVD players and iPods. Plug ‘em in and keep ‘em quiet is sure a popular way to go. But it’s not the ONLY way to go, right? Some parents rightfully don’t want their children to watch that same stultifying Spongebob episode for the thousandth time. For those parents, here is a list of some recommended small toys to help keep your kids occupied on the family vacation road trip.

Recommended Children’s Toys to Help Survive the Road Trip

Hasbro makes The Littlest Pet Shop, which my younger daughter loves. All the little pieces keep her busy, using her imagination (which is great) and repeatedly dropping said little pieces (not so great). The Littlest Pet Shop is easy to pack and carry, though, as it’s self-contained and folds onto itself. And if a mini hairbrush gets lost somehow, there are plenty of other pieces to implement in the ongoing stories that will be created in imaginative play.

Hasbro also makes a pile of Star Wars toys – I guess the whole Star Wars phenomenon is part of the collective North American consciousness by now, since many little kids ask for Darth Vader action figures before they even know there’s a bunch of movies about the guy. Transformers action figures are also popular with the little dudes these days. Anything that helps spur on children’s imaginations is a good thing, in my book.

Tamagotchis are the little beeping doodads you see dangling from many school-age kids’ backpacks. Fortunately, they do come with mute buttons, or every parent would have tossed them in the incinerator by now. Tamagotchis have been around for a while; every few years a new crop of kids discover them and are enchanted. The idea is to raise a little pixelated critter from egg to infirmity, with games to play and points to earn along the way. These things are around 20 bucks, and worth it. Children can “befriend” each others Tamagotchis as well.

My kids get carsick when they read books on road trips. Nausea does NOT a fun car trip make! But, assuming that some children can read in moving vehicles, slim paperbacks are the way to go. They are flat, obviously, and take up less space. Toddlers may enjoy looking through Richard Scarry’s Cars and Trucks and Things that Go, and slightly older children can work on their reading skills with any of the huge “Little Critter” library and later, the “Magic Tree House” series. My older kid has been reading the Spiderwick Chronicles lately, but really, pack a book in the genre your child likes, and chances are it’ll get read.

Time away with our families is increasingly rare. Make the most of a family road trip by helping your kids stay happy and entertained in the back seat. Happy children help the car ride go much more smoothly, after all.

May Snowfall in the Colorado Rockies

This is why I do not plan outdoor parties for my daughter’s early May birthday. Here’s the view from my front porch this morning:

Spring weather in the Colorado Rockies is absolutely unpredictable — and nearly unforecastable. (Is that a word?) The Weather Channel is calling for 2 to 4 inches of snow today; FoxNews says some parts of Colorado might get 8 to 16!

My poor daffodils — after being munched on by the local deer population, the overnight snow has just done them in:

Moral to the story? If you’re planning a spring vacation practically anywhere in the U.S. Mountain West, pack clothing for all sorts of conditions! If you’re driving, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to stock your car with appropriate emergency gear, such as a spare tire and jack, warm blankets, snacks and water, gloves, pocket knife, cell-phone charger, and a flashlight.

Six Tips: Surviving a Family Road Trip

Last week, while I was on my way to Lexington, Kentucky, my sweet husband did a pretty daring thing. He took my two preschoolers on a seven-hour road trip to Palm Desert, California to see his folks. The trip was a success. How did a dad survive such a challenge? In case you’re wondering, we do not have “perfect” kids. In fact, we are often “that” family – you know what I’m talking about.

With that said, here are the six secrets that helped DesertDaddy survive this long road trip with a two and three-year-old in the backseat:

1. DVD player. We scored some $7.99 DVDs at Wal-Mart and let’s just say the kids were as happy as the Berenstain Bears they were watching.

2. Zoobie Pets. Stay tuned for a rave review on these three-in-one critters. Zoobies are a travel-friendly plush animal, pillow, and blanket. The new Zoo Collection just came out this year. The kids don’t even want to take the short ride to the gym without them. Actually, my daughter is cuddled with hers on the couch as I type this.

3. Snacks. This one goes with out saying. But how can dad dish out snacks while he’s driving? I simply packed them each their own lunch box with their favorite snacks in Ziploc bags for easy access.

4. Water. Just say no to sugar on road trips, especially if you have a son like mine who will bounce on a trampoline for three hours after one M&M. Enough said.

5. VTech Tote N Go Laptop Plus is a terrific educational, interactive toy with an LCD screen that teaches the alphabet and numbers. Both of my children have their own “laptop” and it keeps the kids entertained for quite a while.

6. Finally, DesertDaddy was simply a good daddy. He stopped when the kids were hungry, required a potty break, or just needed to get out of the car. And that, my friends, is how my wonderful husband survived a seven-hour road trip with two preschoolers in tow.

Man Malls

I was oblivious to the tourism importance of Man Malls until two appeared near my city. Hotels began to pop up, and even good ole Starbucks opened for business in these no-longer rural areas. My family decided to take a Sunday drive to Cabela’s, located in Gonzales, LA. I was completely shocked when traffic halted on the I-10. It seems as if everyone else in the state of Louisiana had decided to check out this new Man Mall for themselves.

Local police officers were directing traffic into the parking lot (which was full, of course). We hiked a mile to the actual store and I had the Mama Death Grip on my children’s hands so that they would not get lost from me in the mob.

Promotions of Chevy giveaways and pictures with Nascar drivers were strategically placed near the entrance. The whole experience was reminding me of the bargain basement bridal gown sale that always makes the national news. I was expecting to get trampled at any moment.

And then we made it through the doors.

The scene was a wonderland for outdoorsmen (and women). Kids were staring in awe at the wide array of aquatic specimen in nearby tanks. Others were admiring the taxidermy exhibit of animals placed on a mountain. But the truest scene was of women sitting on benches checking mobile phone messages while their men competed for the attention of the store associate. It seems there was a limited supply of discounted knives, and these men just had to have one.

This parallel universe offered a respite, in the form of a General Store, for the women to wait on their men. The homemade fudge slices were calling me, where the kids and I waited for my husband to return triumphantly with his $9.99 knife.

To find a Man Mall the next time you need some hiking socks or a pink fishing pole, visit: Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, or Gander Mountain.

Tots on the Go Giveaway

Tots on the Go, a Virginia-based company, has teamed with Traveling Mamas to let you guys pick out your own prize, and we’re giving you a month do to it!

From their site:

“We started this business out of the desire to share our knowledge, as fairly new parents, of the many great products available. We spent countless hours researching the latest and great products to make a families life easier. With our personal experience as parents and constant research we will help make the right choice for you.”

Wow. This is the type of shop TravelingMamas.com likes. And they even have a showroom that is opening April 25!

So, what do you have to do to win something? Check out Tots on the Go’s Travel Gear section and choose the item you want to win. Just come back here and leave a comment stating your choice of prize. The product with the most comments is the item we’ll give away to a lucky winner.

We’re giving you guys a month to enter, so be sure to tell all your friends. Contest is open to US residents and immediate family members of Traveling Mamas are ineligible to win. Closing date is May 13, 2008. Winning entry and prize will be announced on Winning Wednesday, May 14, just in time for that fabulous family vacation this summer.

Winning Wednesday: Anthology Books Giveaway Results

Welcome to Winning Wednesday! A wonderful weekday wherein we wrangle winners and warmly wish them well.

This week’s contest giveaway relates to our anthology submissions call-out: A hefty assortment of five McSweeney’s anthologies. One lucky winner gets this instant anthology collection (I collect seashells, myself). And who is this person? Who gets to find a 15-pound package from Mailboxes Etc waiting at their doorstep? Well, Gretchen Taylor, it is you! Congratulations! We really hope you like the offbeat humor of many of the contributors.

The giveaway contest asked readers to leave a comment describing what kind of books they take on vacations, and Gretchen answered, “A good ‘beach’ book and a couple of mysteries. Always more than one!” Well, the anthology books are: The Better of McSweeney’s, Timothy McSweeney’s at War for the Foreseeable Future and He’s Never Been So Scared, McSweeney’s 25 (the only hardcover book of the lot), Created in Darkness by Troubled Americans, and finally Comedy by Numbers. Our winner is clearly a voracious reader; these ought to keep you busy for a while.

So, here’s the deal – email me at MudslideMama at TravelingMamas dot com, and once I have your shipping address, these McSweeney’s anthologies will be on their way to you. Happy reading!

Travel Tip: Pack Your Registered Starbucks Card

Isn’t it nice when we can justify your egregious spending habits by noting that a portion of our money goes to some kind of good cause? I know that tip helps me, anyway: I rationalize my frequent pit stops at Starbucks with thoughts like, “Hey, Starbucks supports nonprofits,” or “Look, that Ethos water helps some kids get clean drinking water.” It would be more honest for me to think, “I can kiss this 4 bucks goodbye” as I sate my morning jones for caffeine, but that’s just not how we addicts roll.

So imagine my joy when I read about how easy it is to find a Starbucks on the road? Oh, I was happy, plenty happy. And to round out my coffee-themed day, this afternoon I picked up this tidbit: Sign up for a registered Starbucks card (it works like a debit card, and as long as you don’t lose it, it will automatically maintain a minimum balance), and get free refills, free syrup added in, and a free tall – that means small, newbies - cup of joe when you buy a bag of coffee beans for home. Awesome! Starbucks is a good dealer; they know just how to keep us coming back for more.

Now, I don’t know if this is a limited-time offer or not – I just picked up the pamphlet today – but I do know that 1) free is good and 2) I’m not the only one who seeks out Starbucks even when I’m away from home. Forget the maps and sunblock; this registered Starbucks card is a pretty good item to take on vacation. And unless your vacation is in the middle of a jungle (Starbucks stores are everywhere else, it seems), that’s a pretty good tip.