Little Miss Julia

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T10:07:00.004-05:00

We would like to wish you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving. We hope this holiday season brings much happiness and joy to everyone.

Outdoor Summer Living and CSN Stores $60.00 Gift Card Giveaway

2010-05-27T20:09:00.015-04:00

Memorial Day is here and the summer season is starting. It is a great time to take a look at your outdoor living space and consider giving it a face lift. There is nothing better than spending a warm evening outside on the deck or patio enjoying a meal or time with friends. However as night falls upon you it can get dark and outdoor lighting can be a challenge. Not only do you need the fixture to provide light you need it to be safe around water and the outdoor elements.

CSNLighting.com is a great source for stylish and functional outdoor lighting fixtures. They offer a range of styles from outdoor chandiliers to outdoor table lamps and flood lights. Below are some of the great finds CSNLighting.com offers that will make your outdoor living space beautiful.

Vessel Garden Lamps by Smart Green. These portable lamps come in a variety of shapes, are remote controlled, are waterproof and rechargeable. These stylish fixtures are all reasonably priced.

Worried about lamp shades holding up from the outdoor elements. Worry no more, you can get a very attractive table lamp with a Sunbrella fabric shade.

Other options for your outdoor lighting include floor lamps, lanterns or solar powered fixtures. With so many options to choose from you will be able to create the perfect outdoor living space to meet your needs.

In honor of the upcoming summer season, CSN Stores is giving away a $60.00 gift card to be used at any of their stores. You can purchase an item up to a value of $60.00. Please note that the $60.00 gift card does not include shipping although free shipping is offered on many items.

To enter:

Visit CSNstores.com come back and tell us what you like.

To get additional entries:

Follow our blog, Little Miss Julia

Tweet about this giveaway. Make sure to use @littlemissjulia so we see it.

Please put each entry as a separate post so we do not miss it.

Contest ends Sunday June 6 at 7:00 pm EST.

Congratulations to Amy our CSNstores.com $60.00 gift card winner!!!!!!

Celebrate Earth Day by Plainting a Bean Teepee

2010-04-15T19:26:00.011-04:00

Earth day will be celebrated on April 22nd. It is a great time to make your children aware of the plants and trees around them as well as other natural wonders. Jessica Iclisoy the creator of the natural children's hair and skincare line, California Baby, has a fun project for you to do with your children in honor of Earth Day, plant a bean teepee.

This fun and simple project is a great way to introduce gardening techniques to your children and will help give them an appreciation for what it takes to grow vegetables and to care for a garden. Pole beans are great for this project as they grow fast and children can see the results of their efforts in a short amount of time. Once the plants grow high enough the teepee can serve as a fun play place for your children. You can further instill the wonders of the earth by having your children decorate their teepee with flowers and other natural elements.

Before beginning make sure the soil temperature is around 65 degrees and that you are placing the teepee in a sunny area.

Supplies needed:

-Three pots (approx 15 gallon in size)

-Organic potting soil mix

-Three six-foot-long bamboo poles or garden stakes

-Biodegradable, natural-fiber twine

-One packet of pole beans

Getting Started:

Begin by spacing the three pots two feet apart in a triangle shape. Place a pole in each pot, tying the tops of the three poles together and filling them with rich, organic gardening soil.

Planting How-To:

Have your child push the seeds with their fingers about 1.5 inches deep into the soil, spacing the seeds every two to three inches around each pole.

Feeding & Watering:

Since container plants can’t pull their nutrients from the ground, they must be fed throughout the season. Apply an organic liquid fertilizer every three weeks or so and be sure to keep your beans watered.

Harvest Often:

Pick the beans as soon as they reach a desired size, as the beans will be tender and tasty when eaten straight from the vine.

Clean Up:

After planting and harvesting the beans, make sure your kids stay clean and germ-free with the California Baby

Natural Antibacterial Blend Moisturizing Handwash

Make Earth Day a fun family day with at home projects such as a bean teepee!!!

LeapFrog: Math Adventures to the Moon

2010-04-11T20:05:00.009-04:00

LeapFrog has always been known for their top rated, child and parent loved, educational toys. The company has enjoyed great success and August 2009 the "Let's Go to School" DVD held the number one spot in the children's non-theatrical category. To follow up, LeapFrog has partnered with Lionsgate Home Entertainment to help teach beginning math skills to preschoolers. On February 23, 2010 LeapFrog: Math Adventure to the Moon was released.

Twins, Tad and Lily must complete a school assignment which involves finding a collection of things. They decide moon rocks are perfect and take an adventure on a rocket ship in quest of finding them. On their trip they learn math is everywhere on earth and even in outer space. Tad and Lily use their math skills which include counting, sorting, addition, subtraction and recognizing patterns as they search for moon rocks, make new friends and return back to earth.

This DVD is great entertainment for any child. They will have fun on Tad and Lily's adventure and at the same time will be learning early math skills that help enhance their educational experience. What better form of entertainment for any little one than entertainment that is also educational.

Along with the story there are bonus features, four sing along songs, a sorting game and the Alphabet Song from Let's Go to School.

LeapFrog: Math Adventures to the Moon retails for $14.98 and is recommended for ages 3-6 years.

Visit www.leapfrogDVDs.com for more information and other educational DVD's by LeapFrog.

Celebrate Pi Day

2010-03-13T21:52:00.012-05:00

Today 3/14 is Pi Day. It is a celebration of the first three digits in the mathematical concept of pi, 3.14. Pi is in an irrational number that represents the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter.

This is a great day to celebrate math with your children. From playing math games to participating in local event help give your children an appreciation of this mathematical concept and other math related activities.

March 14th is also Einstein's birthday. Another reason to celebrate as he is is regarded as the father of modern physics and is considered one of the most influential scientists of all time.

Look for our upcoming review of the new LeapFrog DVD Math Adventures to the Moon. A game that makes math fun for children.

The Arthritis National Research Foundation

2010-03-02T20:33:00.009-05:00

The Arthritis National Research Foundation has been providing research grants for over 40 years to young scientists who dedicate their careers to the treatment, cure and end of arthritis.

In the United States, arthritis is the leading cause of disability with more than 46 million Americans suffering from this disease and its related complications. Many people associate arthritis as an older person’s disease. However, arthritis touches people of all ages and there are over 300,000 children in the United States who suffer from it.

I recently had the pleasure of meeting one of these children, Kelly Rouba. At the age of two, Kelly was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. She has suffered and endured great pain and now at age 29 is the national spokesperson for The Arthritis National Research Foundation. The foundation's grant guidelines is to fund at least one juvenile arthritis project a year. In July 2009 the ANRF introduced The Kelly Award in honor of Kelly. This award is a special designation of $75,000 which will be awarded each year to a grant recipient who is studying juvenile arthritis.

I applaud Kelly for her strength and determination not to let this disease control her life. With the creation of this award there is hope that the end of juvenile arthritis is in the foreseeable future.

You can visit The Arthritis National Research Foundation at http://www.curearthritis.org for more information.

Meet Shara Lawrence-Weiss

2010-02-25T16:17:00.015-05:00

Shara Lawrence-Weiss from MommyPerks.com is one of the people who has generously supported our Locks of Love campaign on the MommyPerks.com website as well as their Facebook page. While discussing our promotion with Shara I learned that she has donated hair to Locks of Love and is another inspiring story we wanted to share with you.

It was about nine years ago when Shara decided to donate her hair to Locks of Love. She was in "a rather unhappy place back then" and believes that by helping others your own unhappiness becomes less consuming. After learning about Locks of Love from a friend, Shara set out to research the organization and their donor requirements. Needing a minimum of ten inches of hair, Shara started letting her hair grow. When she finally met the ten inch requirement Shara headed to a salon that cut her hair, free of charge, and mailed it to Locks of Love.

When we asked Shara how she felt about donating her hair she responded, " first and foremost it was empowering. Knowing I was helping a child and giving the gift of hair to a little girl who would otherwise be bald…was amazing." However she did have some reservations with the ten inch requirement and would have liked other lengths to be accepted.

Once cut, it was a shock to Shara to see her hair so short. However, Shara thinks about donating her hair again. If she does, she plans to grow it even longer so when the ten inches come off she is still able to sport her "mommy ponytail."

Thank you Shara for sharing such a valuable gift with children in need.

Great Young Chef Contest

2010-02-23T20:46:00.019-05:00

KIWI magazine is a national parenting publication focused on helping parents raise children in a healthy, green way. The goal is to introduce parents to the latest in natural and organic living.

Every year KIWI Magazine sponsors the Great Young Chef contest and right now they are searching for the next Great Young Chef.

The contest is open to all boys and girls ages 4 years to 17 years old. Each contestant must submit a video of them making their own original recipe or a photo of the finished product. Recipes must be included with the video or photo submissions. KIWI Magazine's sponsor's ingredients must be included in the original recipe. Click here for a link of sponsors.

Prizes include:

Grand Prize: $2500.00 and a feature in KIWI Magazine

First Prize: $1500.00 and a feature in KIWI Magazine

Second Prize: $500.00 and a feature in KWI Magazine

Honorable Mention" $250.00

If you have a culinary expert in your house enter between now and March 31, 2010. All video and photo submissions can be done online by clicking here.

Good Luck!!!

Meet Deborah Sloan

2010-02-18T20:23:00.007-05:00

Our Locks of Love charity event has given us the opportunity to meet amazing people who have given a part of themselves to Locks of Love. They have given the greatest gift they could to this amazing organization, their hair. We continue to honor and say thank you to people who have made such a generous donation. This week we would like to introduce you to Deborah Sloan.

Deborah is a grandmother of ten and last August found out she was going to soon be a grandmother to eleven. Enjoying the moment of finding out about another child on the way and still feeling young at heart Deborah felt it was time for a grandma makeover. For years, she had “hippie” hair that went down to her waist and just got comfortable with her style. It was something she just had not changed in years and when thinking about doing it was nervous. What would she look like, what new style to choose and how much would it cost were all things Deborah was concerned about.

When she decided to take the plunge and cut her hair Deborah had one condition. Her cut hair was going to be donated to Locks of Love. At the end of August 2009 Deborah took the plunge, her granddaughter braided her hair and her daughter cut the long braid off. For the first time in years Deborah had chin length hair.

Deborah sites why giving to Locks of Love was so important to her.

“Giving it to Locks of Love was my one condition to my family in agreeing to cut my hair. I would only cut it if it went to Locks of Love because I know what these kids suffer through. There was a time I was losing my hair because of medications I was taking. It's a horrible feeling. But it stopped and thanks to some terrific friends who supported me my hair all came back.”

Like so many others Deborah has shared her love and given a smile to a child who otherwise might not have one.

If you would like to read more about Deborah you can visit her at her blog, Babas Farm Life, http://babasfarmlife.blogspot.com/

Nothing Like a Fun Day in the Snow!!!

2010-02-11T20:03:00.003-05:00

Meet Mike Wohlberg

2010-02-08T19:11:00.009-05:00

When I decided to do our Locks of Love charity event I thought it would be nice to recognize those who have donated their hair to the organization. Monetary donations are wonderful but without those who donate real hair Locks of Love would not be able to give their recipients the hair pieces they do. What nicer tribute to those children who suffer horrible diseases than to give your own hair as a donation.

Meet Mike Wohlberg who donated his hair to Locks of Love. We all need to applaud him for his generosity and thank him for making a difference for a child in need. Mike's story is below in his own words.

My first encounter with the Locks of Love Foundation occurred during a high school pep rally. Mr. Magyarics, the school’s sociology and psychology teacher, was going to have his head shaved at the end of the function as the main event. Mr. Magyarics was the school’s “cool guy”: he had a classroom covered in offbeat posters, sported tattoos and earrings, and had signature waist long hair that he kept tied back at all times in a very tight braid. The students were very excited for the event. In an additional twist, tickets were being sold offering the chance for one student to cut off his braid and shave off the rest of his hair. Come the day of the rally I was curious to see the outcome, but not really sure what the purpose of it was. I wrote it off as little more than a quirky and inexpensive way to really entertain the student body. A student was chosen (not I) and a few minutes later the high school gymnasium was filled with a chorus of whoops and hollers as one of our teachers was shaved clean. There were two things I learned that day. One, Mr. Magyarics’ head was not that dissimilar in shape to that of a potato. More importantly, however, it was announced that his famous ponytail was to be donated to the Locks of Love Foundation. I kept the information stored in the back of my mind for many years.

Fast forward eight years. It’s now 2009, I’m graduated from college, and I have a long mane of my own owed to 2 years without a trim. I was quite attached to my hair (easy joke), but knew that all good things must come to an end and started planning a donation of my own. After a little research simply by going to locksoflove.org I discovered how easy it was to donate to the organization. All that was required of me was that I have a minimum of 10” of hair tied in a tight braid placed in a dry plastic bag and mailed through the normal postal service to the address provided on the site. I went to the local barber, told them what I had in mind, and a mere ten minutes later I walked out with my hair in a plastic bag and a streamlined ‘doo. I mailed out the package a few days later and that was that. As an additional treat for my parents, I timed my hair cut to coincide with Mother’s Day and surprised them during my next visit. It was like a Christmas and birthday present rolled into one for my father.

Though it’ll be quite some time before I have the same waist long hair style of yesteryear, I can’t recommend this kind of donation enough to anyone capable of contributing. It’s one of the few renewable resources we have available and if given the opportunity there’s no reason not to pitch in. It demands so little of us and yet makes a great difference in the life of someone in need.

If you have donated hair or know someone who has we would love to share your story. Please contact us at info@littlemissjulia.com if you have a story to share.

Little Miss Julia Barrette and Headband Giveaway

2010-02-06T20:33:00.029-05:00

January marked our one year anniversary of being in business. Now it is February and we are feeling the love of Valentine's Day being upon us. In addition to wanting to share our love with Locks of Love through our 20% of online sales donation to them we want to share our love with you. In celebration of Valentines Day and the passing of our one year anniversary we are hosting a Little Miss Julia giveaway. Enter to win items from our Crystal Flower line. The winner will win 2 crystal flower barrettes and a coordinating crystal flower headband. You even get to pick the color. This is a retail value of $28.50.

To enter:

Visit our store, http://www.littlemissjulia.com/ come back here and tell us which item or items you like and why.

Get two extra entries by:

Doing a blog post about our Locks of Love Charity Event

Get additional entries by:

Tweeting about our Locks of Love Charity Event

Tweeting about our giveaway

Become our fan on Facebook. Click Here to go to our page

Follow this blog.

Tweet as many times as you want, each time is a new entry.

Please make sure to leave links to blog posts, tell us you have become a fan on facebook and use @littlemissjulia in any tweets.

Each entry should be on a separate line so we don't miss it.

Contest Ends Friday February 12, 2010 at 8:00 pm EST.

Winner will be chosen using Random.org

US Residents Only.

CONGRATULATIONS TO CRISTINICOUPONCRAZY FOR WINNING OUR HAIR ACCESSORY GIVEAWAY!!! WE HOPE YOU ENJOY YOUR NEW HAIR ACCESSORIES.

Locks of Love

2010-02-04T11:00:00.005-05:00

Little Miss Julia hair accessories for girls is running a promotion for the months of February and March 2010. 20% of all online sales will be donated to Locks of Love.

Locks of Love is a wonderful organization that provides hair prosthetics to children who have lost their hair due to a medical condition. These children are also financially disadvantaged. Not only does the hair piece these children receive provide them with hair it helps restore self esteem that was lost due to their medical condition and the resulting side effects.The average retail cost of a hairpiece is between $3,500-$6,000. Locks of Love pays this for this and is able to do so based on donations received. As mother's we can all imagine the pain and suffering these children endure and pain their parents must experience watching their children suffer. Sometimes it seems like we can't help but we can.

During February 2010 which represents the month of love, Little Miss Julia wants to show our love to these children by providing a donation of 20% of our total online sales. Please visit our site, view our collection and if you see something you like we would love for you to help us reach our goal of giving Locks of Love a generous donation.

If you don't have an interest in purchasing but believe this is a good cause we would love your help in promoting this event. A blog post, a facebook post or a tweet directing people to Little Miss Julia would be greatly appreciated.

Over the upcoming weeks we will be introducing you to people who have donated their hair to Locks of Love. They are all heroes and have helped make a significant difference in a child's life.

Wonderful Women Wednesday

2010-01-26T21:03:00.008-05:00

Through social media and sites like Twitter, Facebook, and business related forums I have met some wonderful and inspiring women. The support and encouragement that comes from these relationships is more than I could have realized prior to becoming an active member in several of these online social outlets.

Going forward for the next several weeks, each Wednesday is going to be Wonderful Women Wednesday. I am going to introduce some of these inspiring, fun, supportive women to you.

I have written about her before but feel she deserves another mention for all the great work she is doing. Cooper Monroe is the co-founder of "Mom Sends the Message", a national public service campaign aimed at educating moms on the dangers of distracted driving. I first got introduced to “Mom Sends the Message” by an email asking people become ambassadors for the cause. I was happy to participate and wrote a blog post. The work Cooper and her partner Emily McKhann were doing was so inspiring and important they made me want to do more to help. Since then I have worked at a local level to help bring awareness to the campaign. Cooper and Emily deserve a huge round of applause. They are working hard on brining to light the dangers distracted driving presents on our roads. The "Mom Sends the Message" website, www.momsmsg.com profiles victims’ stories, outlines new and pending laws and highlights media coverage distracted driving receives.

Jump on board, visit momsmsg.com, take the pledge to not drive while distracted and get inspired to help make your community a safer one.

Words to Sweat By Workout Towel Giveaway

2010-01-11T19:33:00.014-05:00

Words to Sweat By are unique and fun workout towels that will add humor and fun to your workout routine. These 100% cotton white terry cloth towels are all embellished with phrases that are sure to give you a chuckle during your workout. Phrases are either motivational or funny and are stitched on top of bold, colorful appliqués.

Some phrases currently available include:

I am a body in motion.
I am NOT an immovable object
Dancing my butt off, literally
There will be no jiggle in my wiggle
C is for crunches not cookies

Not only are these great towels for your own personal use but they make great gifts. Help encourage a friend while working out by giving one of these great towels. Thank your trainer or class instructor with a humorous saying. For those trainers and gym owners out there, what better way to reward a client for reaching their goal then with a fun workout towel?

Towels come wrapped in a drawstring organza bag and are reasonably priced at $8.00.

You now have the chance to win one of these great towels and the winner will be able to choose which saying they want based on the items in stock.

To enter:

Go to Words to Sweat By, come back here and tell us which saying you like.

Get additional entries by:

Following the Little Miss Julia blog.
Follow Little Miss Julia on Facebook and tell us you are there.
Twitter about this giveaway. Please use @littlemissjulia so we see it.
Add the Little Miss Julia Banner to your website or blog. Please leave the link so we know you did it.
Write a blog post about Little Miss Julia and this giveaway. Please leave a link so we see it.

Please leave each entry as a separate comment so we see them all.

Contest ends Sunday, January 17th at 8:00 pm EST.

Open to US Residents Only.

Winner chosen using Random.org

CONGRATULATIONS TO DREAMSCAPES BABY FOR WINNING THE WORDS TO SWEAT BY WORKOUT TOWEL!!!

A Little Cuteness

2010-01-07T19:53:00.006-05:00

Wouldn't seeing this on your shopping trip put a smile on your face?

In a time when life is full of so many stressful things we need to appreciate these unexpected moments, enjoy them and smile.

Jonathan Sprout 2010 Grammy Nominee

2010-01-05T19:26:00.003-05:00

Since 1974 when Jonathan Sprout started his career he has been entertaining children with his song writing and singing talent. He has recorded nine albums the last of which, American Heroes #3 has been nominated for a 2010 Grammy Award in the Best Musical Album for Children category.

This album has received numerous awards and recognition including the following:

Winner of the 2009 National Parenting Publications GOLD Award

Winner of the Film Advisory Board 2009 Award of Excellence

Winner of the 2009 Parents' Choice Recommended Award

Celebrated Winner of a 2009 iParenting Media Award

Winner of the 2009 Creative Child Seal of Excellence Award

Awarded the Dove "Family-Approved" Seal by the Dove Foundation

In 1994, Jonathan Sprout read a newspaper article that revealed that America's youth saw their heroes as being characters such as Bart Simpson and Beavis & Butthead. He started to think about whom our true heroes were and why they were not on the list. After some thought, Sprout decided to write songs for children about true American heroes and the American Hero's series was born.

Jonathan Sprout has written over 30 songs about true American heroes and has performed them in front of elementary school across the entire East Coast of America. Heroes included in his works are politicians such as George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Thomas Jefferson; athletes including Jackie Robinson and Wilma Rudolph; scientists like Jonas Salk and Thomas Edison; civil rights leaders including Martin Luther King, Jr., Frederick Douglass and Cesar Chavez as well as many others historical heroes.

Children are entertained by the fun music while also learning about important people in our history. I have listened to his songs and they are enjoyable.

Congratulations Jonathan Sprout on your nomination. We will keep our fingers crossed and we wish you the best of luck on Sunday, January 31, 2010.

To learn more about Jonathan Sprout and to view his album click here

Happy New Year

2009-12-31T10:28:00.004-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM LITTLE MISS JULIA

This past year has been a roller coaster of a ride. The ups and downs have been more than many would like to count. I hope that for those who have had a rough 2009 that 2010 rolls in a lot easier and brings much happiness.

Through the tough times there are always bright lights. Even if 2009 was a hard year, take a moment to reflect back and remember the moments that made you smile. It is those smiles that make everything better and something we should never take for granted.

So I raise my glass to you and make a toast, wishing you all the very best in the year to come!!!!

Welcome Home Sean and Congratulations David Goldman!!!!!

2009-12-22T20:09:00.008-05:00

I cannot imagine that David Goldman's story did not pull at the heartstrings of everyone who has heard it. I have followed the story closely since first learning about it on the Today Show many months back. No parent should have to experience having their child taken away from them and then have over five years of court battles to get their child back.

I have felt joy for David Goldman each time it looked like he won a court ruling and felt overwhelming sorrow for him when another road block was put before him. However, David Goldman won his battle and the Brazlian Supreme Court granted him his right to bring his son back home to New Jersey.

I would like to extend my sincere happiness to David Goldman and wish him and Sean a very joyous homecoming. I hope that all the pain and trauma that the events over the past five years have caused is quickly replaced by love and happiness and a new life full of good times.

The mishandling of this case at all levels of the Brazilian courts should be an embarrassment to not only the courts but to the country of Brazil. David Goldman loves his son and the Brazlian system robbed him of many years with Sean. He was robbed of many smiles, many hugs, many I Love You's and he was robbed of the opportunity to watch his baby grow into a boy. We can only hope that time will heal the wounds and that the times to come are happy ones.

Once again, Congratulations to David Goldman for keeping hope alive, for not giving up and for loving your son the way you do. Happy Holidays and a Very Happy New Year to You!!!!

Hundreds Gather to Protest Global Warming

2009-12-20T11:52:00.009-05:00

A little humor to warm up this cold, snowy weekend that is covering a good portion of the country this weekend.

Great Last Minute Holiday Gift!!!

2009-12-17T19:36:00.016-05:00

Not sure what to get that girl or boy who has everything? Rather than getting another toy why not give your special little one a gift from the popular children’s retailer, The Children's Place. They offer clothing for girls and boys as well as pajama's hats, gloves, mittens and even watches.

As winter as quickly comes upon us, the fleece pajamas make the perfect gift. The designs are fun and colorful and come in sizes ranging from XXS (size 2-3) to and XL (size 14). I recently received a sample pair of pj's and I must say they are great pajamas. The fleece pj's are warm and cozy for those cold winter nights. The quality is great and they hold up well wash after wash.

Who would not love any of these styles?

You can now keep up with the fashion trends and news at The Children's Place by becoming a fan of their Facebook page. Click here to become a fan and you will always be alerted to all the great promotions, specials and giveaway happening at The Children's Place.

Disclaimer: Little Miss Julia is not affiliated with The Children's Place.

The Work At Home Woman

2009-12-16T12:10:00.004-05:00

The Work at Home Woman is a website that is dedicated to helping women achieve success while working at home or by starting their own business. The site is full of business resources ranging from marketing, advertising and graphic design to how to run a business on auction sites such as Ebay. You can learn how to use social networking to enhance your business or learn how to build a website. The resources are endless.

In today’s world when women have to juggle careers, children and everyday life having success can appear challenging and at times discouraging. However, there is no reason why women cannot fulfill their dreams. I have heard so many times, “I wish I could but…” It is possible to have a career or own a business and all the other things you may want. It is just important to learn all your options and seek out all the resources available to you. The Work at Home Woman is an all in one package. They provide all the resources and tips you need to take that leap towards working at home while at the same time providing encouragement and support. If you think working from home is something you would like to pursue, visiting The Work at Home Woman is a must.

Starting January 1, 2010 The Work at Home Woman will be launching a new section titled, Woman Owned. This new feature will highlight businesses and blogs run by women. It will be a great place to advertise your business or blog. It will also a great place to find woman owned businesses and help support them. You will be able to find a variety of businesses ranging from services, children’s items and much more.

Visit now and start making your dreams come true.

Cookie Cutters For the Holidays

2009-12-11T19:50:00.010-05:00

CheapCookieCutters.com is a great site for anyone who loves to bake. They offer a full selection of cookie cutters with themes ranging from a typical star or heart to more unique themes such a dog breed specific cookie cutters, college mascot cookie cutters, United States cookie cutters with all the states represented and character cookie cutters such as Mickey Mouse, Batman and Star Wars.

I had the opportunity to use the mini Christmas Cookie Cutter set this week. The set consists of a Christmas tree, a mini stocking, a mini candy cane, and a mini angel cookie cutter. I had a lot of fun using these cookie cutters as they cut the cookie dough easily and the shapes of each piece came out perfect. This set is referred to as "mini" however the cookie size was perfect for that bite size snack or for a treat for your little one.

If you are a baker and love to bake cookies, CheapCookieCutters.com is the place for you. It is a one stop shop covering all the different themes and shapes you would want as a baker. Another wonderful thing about CheapCookieCutters.com is that they will custom make a design for you. This is a great option if you are having a special event and want to have a special cookie.

Disclaimer: Little Miss Julia is not affiliated with CheapCookieCutters.com was not compensated to provide any information or opinions on the products offered by CheapCookieCutters.com

Help Protect Our Right to Own Pets

2009-11-21T15:31:00.010-05:00

There is a very disturbing trend happening in the US right now and most people are unaware of it. States all across the country are making efforts to pass laws that will limit our rights to own pets. These laws range from spay/neuter laws to limiting what breed (breed specific laws) can legally live within town, city and state limits. Some laws even go as far as to dictate how many pets are allowed per household. You can view some of the legislative activity in your state by visiting The American Kennel Club.

Pets are our family; we love them and care for them as if they were our children. To think one day our government, be it local, state or federal could have the right to say we can no longer own our dog because of what breed it is, is beyond scary.

View the list of pending laws in your state, contact your local or state representative and voice your opinion against this new type of regulation. Those who want to limit pet ownership are slowly winning the right to do so by quietly getting laws passed. As pet owners and pet lovers we need speak up and be heard. You don’t want to wake up one day and get a knock on your door telling you to dispose of the dog who you so dearly love because of the breed it is or the number you own.

The American Kennel Club issues legislative alerts. You can be updated on a regular basis as to what is happening on a state by state basis by subscribing to these alerts. Click here to subscribe.

The American Dog Owners Association also issues legislative alerts which can be found by clicking here.

Below are some links to informative resources related to the right to own pets across the country.

The American Kennel Club

The American Dog Owners Association

National Animal Interest Alliance

We all have the right to own a pet, care for a pet and love a pet. Don’t let those who think otherwise take this inherent right away from you and your family.

Take the 10,000 Step Challenge

2009-11-17T18:58:00.005-05:00

Here is the challenge; take at least 10,000 steps a day everyday. Keep walking, getting the steps in and you will be burning calories and getting in shape without even feeling the pain. Every step counts so park a little further away in a parking lot, walk to the bus stop rather than drive and you can even go up and down the steps a few extra times a day. It all adds up!!!

To track your steps you can purchase a pedometer like the one pictured here. The goal is to keep moving and getting those steps in. Track your steps over a period of a week or more and you will be able to see what days you need to make the extra effort. It may be days that you are at work and sitting at a desk or maybe a lazy Sunday. Either way you will become much more aware of how much you are moving.

If you need help or motivation organize walking groups with friends, neighbors or even at your gym. My trainer set this challenge up at my gym. It is great to have the camaraderie of a group and the friendly competition always makes it more exciting.

It is a little over a week since I started the 10,000 steps a day challenge. I must say it has changed my habits. I take walks when I have free time, park further away in the parking lots and overall have been more active. If it is getting to be evening and I don't have enough steps I jog in place, run up and down the steps a few times or jog and around the house.

So go for it!!!! Check in and let us know if you are taking the challenge and how you are doing.

Good Luck!!!

Enjoy this holiday season by knowing you are burning more calories and keeping your body healthier.

Help Spread the Mom Sends the Message Campaign to Stop Distracted Driving and Be Entered to Win 1 of 3 Mini Dell Laptops

2009-11-13T08:26:00.012-05:00

Mom Sends the Message, the public service campaign to stop distracted driving, has almost reached 500 pledges. That is a great accomplishment in just a few short weeks. However, more pledges are needed as there are millions of people on our roads everyday. Help Mom Sends the Message exceed 500 pledges this weekend by taking the pledge now. Click here to take the pledge

There are 3 Dell Mini Laptops being given away this weekend in celebration of reaching 500 pledges. All you need to do is take the pledge and you will be entered into the contest.

To get additional entries you can do any of the following:

Twiter about the Mom Sends the Message Pledge and use the tag #SendtheMsg

Fan Mom Sends the Message on Facebook- Click here to become a fan

Blog about Mom Sends the Message, the pledge or the contest and you get TWO additional entries- send your link to contact@themotherhood.com

Enter soon as this contest ends on Monday, November 16, 2009 at 12 noon.

I am happy to say I have been working within my community to get the message out. Several PTA's have endorsed the message and put it on their websites as well as the local police department. I am currently working with other PTA's and police departments and hope to see additional endorsements soon. You can do the same. Make our roads safer for both you and your children!!!!

In honor of exceeding 500 pledges I have extended my 20% discount off your entire order to anyone who takes the pledge. When you place your order please send a link to your pledge and use coupon code MOM at checkout. Offer ends Monday November 16th. Click on SHOP to browse our collection and enjoy your discount.

It's a New Twist on Some Old Children's Classics

2009-11-04T11:46:00.014-05:00

FUNKY KIDZ is a musical compilation that features 12 of New Orleans' finest artists such as Ian Nevilles, The Radiators, George Porter Jr., Papa Grows Funk and more. The musicians take classic children's tunes like “Zip a Dee Doo Dah”, “Yellow Submarine”, "This Land is Your Land" and “Hokey Pokey” and give the songs a funky and fun twist.

Introduce your children to the sounds of New Orleans while still enjoying the old classics. Have fun in the car or dance around the house, either way FUNKY KIDZ will not disappoint. It will provide both you and your kids some listening enjoyment.

Creative Kids Magazine voted FUNKY KIDZ the 2009 Album of the Year. At only $13.99 this makes the perfect holiday gift for anyone who has a little kid in them.

Visit www.funkykidzmusic.com to purchase a CD or to learn more.

A portion of the proceeds goes toward fostering music education in New Orleans.

Disclaimer: Little Miss Julia is not affiliated with the producer of FUNKY KIDZ and was not paid to review any of the company's products.

Wear Your Music.Org Guitar String Bracelets- Giveaway

2009-10-28T13:09:00.011-04:00

Are you a music lover who would love to have a piece of your favorite musician’s guitar? Well, you can!!! Wear Your Music.Org gives you the opportunity to wear a piece of rock history on your wrist in the form of a guitar string bracelet. Artists such as Clapton, Santana, John Mayer and many more are recycling their guitar strings into hip bangle style bracelets designed by WEARYOURMUSIC.ORG. 100% of the profits for these artist bracelets go to the musician's charity of choice. There are hundreds of organizations such as UNICEF and Rock the Vote who are benefiting from the sale of these bracelets. Prices for artist specific pieces start around $50.00 and can go as high as $300.00 for a bracelet made from the strings of Pete Townshend’s guitar.

If you just like the looks of these pieces and want to make a fashion statement at a more affordable price, check out the fashion bracelets which come in a variety of fun colors such as red, teal and purple. These bracelets are priced are around $10.00 each. These fun fashion bracelets make a perfect stocking stuffers or holiday gifts for the music lover in your life.

We are offering one Wear Your Music.Org fashion bracelet to a lucky winner.

To enter this contest:

Leave a message why you would like to win this guitar string fashion bracelet.
Get an extra entry by following the Little Miss Julia blog.
Get an extra entry by adding the Little Miss Julia button to your blog or website. Please leave a link so we know you did it.
Blog about Little Miss Julia and get another entry. Please leave a link so we know you did it.
Tweet about this giveaway and each time you do get another entry. Make sure to use @littlemissjulia so I see it.
Take the Moms Sends the Message Pledge to not drive while distracted and get an additional entry. Leave a link to your pledge so we see it. Click here to take the pledge.

Please leave each entry as a separate comment. That way we can't miss it.

If you do not have a Blogger account please leave your email so we can contact you if you won.

Winner chosen using Random.org

US Residents Only.

Contest Ends Wednesday November 4, 2009 at 9 pm EST.

Disclaimer: Little Miss Julia is not affiliated with Wear Your Music.Org and was not paid to sponsor a giveaway or review any of the company's items.

Halloween is Almost Here- So Go Out and BOO

2009-10-25T20:36:00.007-04:00

I first learned about being BOOED three years ago. It was about 3 weeks before Halloween and one night around 8:00 the door bell rang. It took me by surprise as it was late for someone to be dropping by. Chaos followed with the dogs barking, kids screaming and me trying to get to the front door to see who was coming by for a visit. When I finally got to the door no one was there. I just happen to look down and saw a big bowl of candy with some little toys, a note and a Ghost as shown in the picture above.

The note read as follows:

It's A BOO Bag!!!

GOOOOOOOOD Evening!!!

The Phantom Ghost Has Come Around
To Leave You Some Goodies That You Have Found.
If You Do Not Wish A Curse To Fall,
Please Continue This Greeting... This Ghostly Call.

First Post This Ghost Where It Can Be Seen,
On A Door Or Window Until Halloween.
Than No Other Ghost Will Visit Again.
Be Sure To Participate.. If You Don't, Tis A Sin.

Make Two Treats, Two Ghosts, And Two Notes, That's The Plan,
Then Take To Two Neighbors As Soon As You Can.
You Have Only One Day So Be Very Fast,
Leave Treats At A Home Where No Ghost Has Yet Passed.

Deliver After Dark When There's Barely A Light,
Ring The Doorbell And Run, Then Stay Out of Sight.
Don't Let Them See You, Be Sneaky No Doubt,
Check Back To Be Sure That They Put Their Ghost Out!

And Last But Not Least, Come Join In The Season.
Don't Worry, Be Happy.. You Have Great Reason.
Have Fun And Be Scary... Try Not To BeSeen.
And Share In The Spirit Of This Halloween!

This is a yearly tradition in my neighborhood and we enjoy it. Start it where you live and have some fun.

Mom Sends the Message Gets a Thank You from the Department of Transportation

2009-10-24T09:52:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to Cooper and Emily at TheMotherhood.com for the national thanks given to them by the US Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood. On October 23, Ray LaHood recognized the work Cooper and Emily have been doing with the Mom Sends the Message campaign on his official blog. Hopefully with the work they have been doing and the support of mother's all over the country our roads will soon be safer and distracted driving will become less of a threat.

We all owe a huge thank you to Cooper and Emily for helping to build awareness of this huge problem facing all of us each time we get in our cars.

To read Ray LaHood's post click here.

Mom Sends the Message: Keep Your Mind on the Wheel

2009-10-09T18:16:00.016-04:00

We have all worried about the threat presented by drunk drivers and we have all felt the need to be on the defense when driving. With the advances in technology a new threat has presented itself on our roads, one that is as threatening and deadly as drunk driving and that is the practice of texting, emailing and talking on the cell phone while driving.

A new public service campaign has been started by TheMotherhood.com to educate mothers on the danger of being distracted while driving and to encourage moms across the country to take the pledge to not drive while distracted. Mothers (and fathers) hold a lot of power, we set examples for our children, we help mold their values, we set the rules in our houses and ultimately we control if and when our children can use our cars. What better way to teach and encourage our children to practice safe driving practices then by taking the pledge ourselves and setting a good example for them. We not only have a lot of influence over our children but we have it in our communities. Through our schools, PTA’s and community organizations such the mom’s clubs we can help spread the word, the message is simple, “Keep your mind on the wheel”.

TheMotherhood.com is holding a contest for a public service announcement. It is easy, videotape a PSA showing what distracted driving is, keep it is simple and short, no more than 1 minute 30 seconds, upload your video to a video site like You Tube, and post it here using embedded code. Contest ends October 23. For more details click here.

Cash prizes are available to the winners. If you are a member of a club such as the PTA, a Mom’s Club or a community organization ban together and create a video, if you win your winning can go to support your group. If you create your own video you could be the winner of a nice cash prize. It takes a small effort to create big buzz so why not be a part of this exciting campaign. If you are unable to create a video, tell your friends, blog about this great cause or just take the pledge.

I am happy to say I am an ambassador for Mom Sends the Message. Get involved and help spread the word. The more we talk about it the more we can build awareness to this problem and ultimately help save lives on our roads.

Click here or click on the sign the pledge logo above to be one of the many taking to pledge to make our roads and children safer.

10 VIP Memberships Giveaway to Zulaworld.com in Honor of the My SEO Gal Blog Hop (click here on the title to leave a comment)

2009-10-03T18:48:00.014-04:00

My SEO Gal is a friend of ours and we are happy to participate in their first blog hop. Review the list of blogs participating, visit our friends and enjoy all the fun filled information provided on these various blogs.

In honor of kicking off the My SEO Gal first blog hop Little Miss Julia is extending The Zula Patrol DVD giveaway with 10 FREE VIP MEMBERSHIPS to zulaworld.com. On this fun and interactive site your children can immerse themselves in the exploration of science, math and astronomy. Children can play by themselves or with friends; they can build spaceships and aliens. As your child accomplishes tasks they earn rewards. The reward points can then be used to unlock new levels, decorate their spaceship, and earn badges for their Alien.

Enter to win this fun and exciting contest which ends on Friday October 9, 2009 at 9 pm EST. There will be 10 winners in total!!!

To enter:

Leave a message why you would like to win this special VIP membership

Get an extra entry by following the Little Miss Julia blog.

Get an additional extra entry by adding the Little Miss Julia button to your blog or website. Please
leave a link so we know you did it.

Blog about Little Miss Julia and this great giveaway get another entry. Please leave a link so we know you did it.

Tweet about this giveaway and each time you do get another entry. Make sure to use @littlemissjulia so we see it.

Please leave each entry as a separate comment. That way we can't miss it.

If you do not have a Blogger account please leave your email so we can contact you if you win.

US Residents Only.

Winner is chosen using Random.org

The Zula Patrol Giveaway- Enter to Win 2 DVD's

2009-09-27T06:58:00.017-04:00

Everyone is now back in gear and back in school and we are offering a giveaway that will provide your child with the perfect escape and relaxation time after a hard days work at school. Enter to win The Zula Patrol DVD giveaway and you will have to the chance to win 2 DVD’s from this entertaining but educational series.

The Zula Patrol is a popular animated science and astronomy series for kids that airs nationally on Saturday mornings on NBC, as part of qubo. It also airs on weekdays and weekends on public television stations.

The wacky alien characters include stalwart Captain Bula, brainiac Professor Multo, feisty hot-doggin' space pilot Zeeter, the amazing space pet Gorga, and twin flying explorers Wizzy & Wigg. These characters take children on a fun adventure and help kids to discover interesting facts and things about science and astronomy.

The Zula Patrol: Moons Mayhem will take children on a wild adventure in space as they learn about the planets Venus, Jupiter and many of the moons within the solar system.

The Zula Patrol: Animals Adventures in Space teaches children about, reptiles, mammals and plants. Children will travel through an adventure learning how rocks form and how all living things interact with each other.

The Zula series is a great way to entertain your children but at the same time educate them. The graphics and colors are great and these shows will captivate any young, curious mind.

To enter:

Leave a message why you would like to win these 2 DVD's

Get an extra entry by following the Little Miss Julia blog.

Get an additional extra entry by adding the Little Miss Julia button to your blog or website . Please leave a link so we know you did it.

Blog about Little Miss Julia and this great giveaway get another entry. Please leave a link so we know you did it.

Tweet about this giveaway and each time you do get another entry. Make sure to use @littlemissjulia so we see it.

Please leave each entry as a separate comment. That way we can't miss it.

If you do not have a Blogger account please leave your email so we can contact you if you win.

US Residents Only.

Winner is chosen using Random.org

Contest ends on Friday October 2nd 9pm EST.

Good Luck!!!

Following this contest we will be offering a chance to win a VIP membership to Zula.com where your child will have access to games, special offers and much more. There will be 10 lucky winners!!! Keep your eyes open for this huge offer coming soon!!!!

Back to School Love Notes

2009-09-07T21:30:00.002-04:00

It’s back to school; summer is over and time to see your little one get on the school bus to start a new school year. Another year, can you believe it? Didn’t they just start preschool? Where has time gone? I am sure these are questions that run through every mom’s mind as the bus door begins to open. As scary as it may be for you, it can also be scary for your son or daughter. You can give them all the hugs and kisses you want before the bus comes but once the door closes your child is off for the day.

A great way to put a smile on their face and the next best thing to a hug is a lunch note. These fun I Love You notes are a simple way for you to be part of their day. They are simple to make; all you need is a small piece of paper, some crayons and a bit of creativity. I love you, Have a great day and Enjoy lunch are some of the messages you can fill your child’s lunch box and heart with. Don’t forget, keep it a secret so when that lunch box gets opened your child’s face will light up with delight.

I know when I was a child having something that was from my mother with me made everything better. It helped ease the anxiety of a new situation and gave me the confidence I needed to excel in a given situation.

I wish everyone a happy and fun school year and before you know it summer will be back and you will be wondering where did this year go.

Design Dazzle For All Your Decorating Needs

2009-08-15T17:49:00.006-04:00

Want to design a nursery, redecorate your child’s room or just add some accents to an already decorated room? If so Design Dazzle is a must visit for you. This stylish decorating site offers a variety of fresh innovative ideas for creating the perfect room. There are do it yourself projects such as creating bookshelves from rain gutters or designing and making your own car or princess headboard. You can find great designers for items ranging from room accessories to bedding. The Design Dazzle photo gallery is a great place to see an endless number of decorated nurseries, boy, girl and teen rooms. You could get lost for hours reading the articles and roaming the pictures posted on designdazzle.blogspot.com

RAIN GUTTER BOOKSHELVES

Do It Yourself Car Headboard

Giveaways are also sponsored and if you enter you could be the lucky winner of great decorating items such as the wall art by Love Letters which is currently running. Click here to see the prize and enter by August 24th for a chance to win.

Love what you see? Click over to designdazzle.com and browse all the items for sale in this sophisticated and fun shop. Not only can you purchase furniture and accessories but you can also look for a decorator in your area by visiting the directory of interior designers, decorators and muralist. Design Dazzle's shopping site offers a variety of articles related to decorating and just adds to the wealth of information provided on their blog.

If you love decorating or need some help with it visit Design Dazzle.

Sid the Science Kid and Dive Olly Dive DVD Giveaway

2009-08-09T17:12:00.014-04:00

Sid the Science Kid and Dive Olly Dive are two great TV series that teach children about the world around them, encourage curiosity and learning and at the same time are both entertaining and fun to watch.

Sid the Science Kid is an Emmy nominated PBS series and after watching the DVD's I understand why. Each story teaches a lesson as to why and how things occur in the world around us. From why banana's turn brown to how things grow to freezing and unfreezing objects, Sid the Science Kid makes learning fun. Valuable lessons and educational themes are at the heart of this great children's series.

Dive Olly Dive is also and Emmy nominated series and airs on PBS Sprout. About two submarines in training, Dive Olly Dive teaches children about important lessons such as friendship, learning from your mistakes and not to judge people based on their appearance. The graphics are great and much of the story takes place on the ocean or in the world below the surface.

In a world that is flooded with meaningless shows it is refreshing to watch two series that make your child laugh but also provide educational information. The graphics on both these series are detailed and colorful. The accompanying songs are fun to listen to and just make you want to smile. I highly recommend these shows be added to your child's watch list.

Lookout for five new episodes of Sid the Science Kid to air on PBS stations in September.

The first two DVD's include Sid the Science Kid - Change Happens and Side the Science Kid- The Bug Club and the Dive Olly Dive: Ship Shape Sub DVD are now available in stores. However, I am giving you a chance to win all THREE DVD's. Each DVD contains four episodes each and they all include a Bonus DVD of Front Row Fun.

To enter:

Leave a message why you would like to win these 3 DVD's

Get an extra entry by following the Little Miss Julia blog.

Get an extra entry by adding the Little Miss Julia button to your blog or website . Please leave a link so we know you did it.

Blog about Little Miss Julia and get another entry. Please leave a link so we know you did it.

Tweet about this giveaway and each time you do get another entry. Make sure to use @littlemissjulia so I see it.

Please leave each entry as a separate comment. That way we can't miss it.

If you do not have a Blogger account please leave your email so we can contact you if you won.

US Residents Only.

Contest ends on Friday August 14th at 9 pm EST.

Good Luck!!!

The New Official Birthday Cake of The American Cancer Society

2009-07-25T20:40:00.013-04:00

A few months ago I introduced you to The American Cancer Society’s new mission, to celebrate more birthdays; because the more birthdays that are celebrated the more people are defeating cancer. Due to efforts to encourage people to eat healthier, stay well, find cures and fight back against cancer more than 11 million people who have survived or avoided cancer will celebrate a birthday this year.

Since healthy living translates into less cancer The American Cancer Society teamed up with The Culinary Institute of America to reinvent the birthday cake. Baking and pastry students from The Culinary Institute of America were asked to come up with a cake recipe that was easy to make and that offered healthy ingredients in lieu of the not so healthy ingredients usually found in cakes. Culinary Institute of America alumni along with the star of Food Network's "Ace of Cakes" Chef Duff Goldman joined in on the effort to help select the winner.

The students had to submit and original cake recipe with a summary as to why their cake was healthier and how it improved the nutritional value of the cake as compared to the traditional birthday cake. The five finalists selected were Alexandra Mudry, Arthur Battistini, Tamara King, Lorraine Tran and Laura Sansone. Duff Goldman selected the winner Alexandra Mudry at his Charm City Cakes studio bakery. The final judging will air on the Food Network’s Ace of Cakes.

Click here for the recipe of the winning red velvet birthday cake. Congratulations to Alexandra Mudry!!!

Help join The American Cancer Society’s effort to celebrate more birthdays. Spread the word about their new, official birthday cake and help inspire the people you love to eat and live healthier. Visit the ACS at www.morebirthdays.com to see how you can be part of the celebration movement. You can also spread the word on Facebook or by visiting www.OfficialBirthdayBlog.com.

Read Duff Goldman's message to the supporters of the More Birthdays campaign by clicking here.

Accent Furniture Double Old Fashion and Cooler Acrylic Barware Giveaway

2009-06-26T19:46:00.013-04:00

Summer is here and July 4th is quickly approaching. Enter to win and spice up your summer celebrations with stylish and fun outdoor barware by Accent Furniture Direct. From the non-neutral collection we are offering the Double Old Fashioned Acrylic Barware set – 4 pieces and the Cooler Acrylic Barware Set- 4 pieces. Both sets have a retail value of $37.00 combined.

Accent Furniture Direct is your one stop shop for all your home decorating needs with items ranging from home accessories to furniture. In addition to providing a comprehensive selection home furniture and accessories Accent Furniture Direct provides useful information and tips that makes decorating your home easier. Visit Advice Central and have your questions answered on topics such a barstool and table height, coffee table basics and construction questions.

The furniture options are endless, you can shop by room or brand and the price ranges meet all budgets. Visit Accent Furniture Direct and fulfill all your home decor needs from home accessories to furniture.

To enter:

Visit http://www.accent-furniture-direct.com come back here and tell us what item you would love to have in your home.

To get a second entry: Follow this blog

To get a third entry tweet about this giveaway and mention @littlemissjulia

Keep tweeting about this giveaway and keep getting additional entries. Just make sure to mention @littlemissjulia so we know you are posting.

All comments can be posted on one post.

Please enter your email address if do not have a Blogger profile.

Contest is open to US Residents only.

Contest ends on Thursday July 2nd 9:00 pm EST.

Winner will be chosen using Random.org

Celebrate More Birthdays with the American Cancer Society

2009-05-30T21:54:00.008-04:00

There is not one person who has not been touched by cancer in some way. It may be a mother, daughter, father, son, aunt, uncle, cousin or friend who you know that has been diagnosed or died from some form of cancer. Because of that I have decided to continue my birthday series in honor of morebirthdays.com and the American Cancer Society.

I got introduced to morebirthdays.com because they started to follow me on Twitter. Seeing the word birthday in the name got me interested to see who they were. Upon clicking on their site I quickly learned it was the American Cancer Society. The ACS is honoring birthdays because one more birthday is one more day of survival for so many.

The American Cancer Society is asking everyone to join in their fight against cancer and make them the official sponsor of your birthday. Their birthday kit provides useful tips for fun party ideas, healthy meal choices to serve your guests and great gift ideas.

You can also share your birthday by creating a birthday page on morebirthdays.com. If you like you can ask your friends and family to make a donation in honor of your birthday rather than giving you a gift.

The American Cancer Society provides support to patients by giving them useful information, providing free transportation to treatments and if needed a place to stay if home is far from the treatment center. In addition, they support researchers working hard to find new drugs, cures and preventative techniques that fight this horrible disease. The American Cancer Society works with lawmakers to create movements like the smoke-free law and they lobby for more money to be put towards cancer research. Everyday the American Cancer Society is fighting so many different aspects of cancer with the hopes of helping all those touched by it.

The more birthdays there are the more people there are winning the battle against cancer. This is a great way to help build awareness and honor those who fight this deadly disease on a daily basis.

Leg Huggers by Agoo

2009-05-23T22:08:00.012-04:00

Leg Huggers, I love them and wish I had them when I had a baby/toddler girl.

These fun leg accessories make a great fashion statement for any little girl. There are numerous designs to choose from including rainbow hearts, retro argyle, butterfly garden and circus parade. Some of the colors incorporated into the designs include pinks, yellows, greens and blues. In addition to a mix of themes, Leg Huggers are available in a solid light pink and a solid fuchsia pink.

Leg Huggers are soft and comfortable and will help keep those small legs warm under dresses or skirts; it will protect your little one’s knees while crawling, climbing, running, dancing or playing and will liven up any outfit. Not only are these great for the cooler weather but are great to take while on the run. Ever go into a restaurant or mall on a very hot day to find that inside it is like being in the artic? Rather than worrying about your little girl's legs getting cold all you need to do is slip these on and your child will have a comfortable experience. There are so many uses and times when Leg Huggers can come in handy. Everyone should have a pair in the car just in case.

Leg Huggers are made from bamboo so each pair is eco-friendly. The bamboo fibers also help the fabric to be breathable, wick moisture away, and since it is a natural fiber is non-irritating.

Leg Huggers are sold in select retail outlets throughout the United States and Canada as well as at select online stores and can also be purchased at www.leghuggers.com

I highly recommend anyone with a baby/toddler girl or anyone looking for a gift to check out this innovative, comfortab le, fashion forward product for girls.

Come join Leg Huggers on Facebook and become a fan.

Leg Huggers supports the Free Hug Campaign

One Lovely Blog Award

2009-05-20T05:32:00.008-04:00

Thank you to Cales at MarieLynn Boutique for including Little Miss Julia in the One Lovely Blog Award. This is a great way to share with others blogs that you believe are noteworthy, informative and fun to read. Below are the 15 blogs I recommend.

How to participate:

Accept the award, post it on your blog with the name of the person who has granted the award and link to that blog

Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you’ve discovered and like.

Contact the blogger's to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

1. Mrs. Mo's New Jersey Baby

2. Birthday Party Ideas 4 Kids

3. Adopt a "Do"Cute Girls Hairstyles

4. Pitter Patter Creations

5. Nanny Deprived

6. Dreamscapes Baby

7. My Brand Name Baby

8. Paper*Cakes Finds

9. New York City Mama

10.The Adventures of Whimsical Walney

11.Confessions of A Moody Mommy

12.TLC's Silver Jewerly Blog

13.The Pitter Patter Boutique

14.For The Love of Baby!

15.The Story of A Princess and Her Hair

Have an Affair with the A Bling Affair Giveaway

2009-05-07T13:19:00.047-04:00

A Bling Affair is a fun, stylish custom made clothing line that will make your child the fashion trend setter of your town. Founder, Suzanne Kellner began designing children’s clothing because she saw a need for functional but stylish outfits for both girls and boys. Designs are inspired by vintage and antique fabrics and tattoo art. All pieces are hand dyed, embellished with custom transfers, Swarovski crystals and various paints.

For girls pieces include tanks, shorts, dresses and sweats. Some of the themes are hippy peace signs, hearts and love and skulls with cross bones. It’s a bit of sweetness with an edgy feel.

The boy’s collection includes vintage washed t shirts, tanks and cozy sweats featuring Rock and Roll inspired art. These funky designs are comfortable yet fashionable for your hip young boy.

Enter our A Bling Affair Giveaway and have a chance to win either the rock and roll guitar shirt for boys or the true love t-shirt for girls. Winner will get a child size shirt of their choice. For the boys you can choose either a long sleeve or short sleeve tee. You let us know the size and we will send you the prize.

For a bigger view of each item just click on the picture.

How to enter:

Visit http://www.ablingaffair.com/, browse the site, come back here and tell us which item you love.

Want a 2nd entry, follow our blog, Little Miss Julia.

Get a 3rd entry, talk about this giveaway on Twitter and make sure to use the @littlemissjulia so we see you tweet.

When posting your comment if you don't have a Blogger profile with an email address please leave your email in your post.

All comments can be in one post.

Winner will be chosen using Random.org

Contests ends Sunday, May 17, 2009 at 9pm. Winner will be announced shortly after.

Please note we can only ship within the U.S.

We are dedicating this giveaway to Trisha at momdot.com in honor of her 31st birthday. Happy Birthday Trisha and we hope your Birthday Party: 31 Bloggers in 31 Days is a success.

Birthday Parties- Why Not Make Some Fun at Home?

2009-05-02T16:46:00.012-04:00

Birthday parties have changed significantly since I was a child. It used to be that a few friends came over, everyone played and the highlight was cake and opening presents. Today on the other hand birthday parties have turned into major events. Parties have to be planned weeks in advance in order to secure a venue and invitations need to be sent out weeks in advance in the hopes that people are still available come your party date. Not only have the parties gotten more extravagant but so have the favors. Favors have gone from what used to be a bag of candy and maybe a few “crackerjack” type toys to presents in and of themselves.

Where I live the average cost of a birthday party is somewhere between $400-$500. That includes the place, the cake, food and the favors. What has happened to the simple home party and why do we need to indulge our children in such extravagance at such a young age?

Since I find this all so crazy I have decided to share with you some fun at home party ideas. Over the next few weeks, I will be posting fun and creative parties for your girls that would satisfy any age. For those with boys, I will also share ideas for fun boy or boy girl parties.

To start this series I would like to introduce the "Glam Girl or Princess Party". It is easy; tell all your guests to come in dress up clothes. If you have a girl anything like mine than finding dress up clothes is not hard to do. Buy some nail polish, set mirrors and brushes on the table and do hair and nails. If the girls are old enough makeup can be incorporated. Being a mom, you know how to do hair and nails, so you can be the stylist. To add to the excitement your party favor can be a fun hair accessory, a hair brush and mirror set, or nail polish. After all the girls are done up you can serve cake and let the them play and have fun with each other.

Need party favor or gift set ideas? Come visit me at Little Miss Julia or click on Shop at the top of the page. I would be happy to create favors that meet the needs of your party. Below are some gift and party favor ideas.

Little Jewel Mother's Day Giveaway

2009-04-24T12:24:00.010-04:00

Having a baby has to be the most memorable days of a person’s life. Your life from that moment on will never be the same. It is the beginning of an incredible journey and the moment you experience an overwhelming feeling of love for another being. A child’s birth is a moment you want to treasure and remember forever. What better way to do that than with a symbol of your new baby close to your heart.

Little Jewel was created by a mom’s desire to capture the wonder of a new birth and to recognize the beauty of motherhood. Pieces include boy and girl themed pendants in yellow and white gold with or without diamonds or other precious stones. For little girls, bracelets and earring are available.

In honor of Mother’s Day, Little Jewel is giving away either a boy or girl pendant in sterling silver. To enter, visit, http://www.littlejewel.com/ browse the products, come back here and tell us which item you like and what that item symbolizes to you as a mother.

Entries are welcome until Friday May 1, 2009 9 pm Eastern Time. A winner will be announced shortly after.

**winner will be chosen using random.org

**please leave your email address in the post if it is not listed on your profile.

OH NO!!! My Six Year Old Made a $100,000 Bid on Ebay!!!!

2009-04-19T16:41:00.004-04:00

Last Wednesday morning at 8:15 as I am trying to get out the door for the day my son started yelling from the playroom that he found the perfect Star Wars toy online. This type of event occurs frequently so I did not pay that much attention to it and said “Ok, we can look at it later, let’s go we have to leave.” That was all that was said and we left the house for the day.

I stopped at home later that afternoon before I had to pick the kids up from school and got on the computer for a quick check of orders and emails. The first thing that popped up was the “perfect Star Wars toy”. I started to look at it because my son is biggest Star Wars fan. As I scrolled up the screen I suddenly noticed that there was a statement that said “CONGRATULATIONS, YOU ARE THE HIGHEST BIDDER.” I could not figure out what I was looking at and then it dawned on me. My soon to be six year old got himself onto Ebay and made a bid for this “perfect toy”. OH NO!!!!

So I was thinking how bad could it be? I was going to have to pay $30.00 for a $10.00 toy? At first I could not believe what I was seeing, it said the maximum bid was at $100,200.00 and I was the highest bidder. My heart stopped but I then saw that the item started at $.99 and the bid increments only went up by a dollar or so making the bid only around a dollar. I did not know that a bid could be retracted but quickly found out and removed his bid from the item.

In the car on the way home from school I asked my son if he knew that he bid on the Star Wars toy. He responded yes. I then asked him if he knew if he put a lot of money in for the bid and his response was, “Yes, I had to make it expensive so I could win it.” That made me chuckle but at the same time it is not funny. You should never underestimate what your child knows or what they know how to do. Ebay is the last place I thought my son would go to find a toy. I am still not sure how he got on it and past my password. He is a little too computer savvy for my liking and will not be allowed near the computer without me present in the room. In the end he did not do any damage but that is not to say he would not the next time!!!!

MarieLynn Boutique

2009-04-12T10:34:00.028-04:00

MarieLynn Boutique is a great find for anyone looking for unique handmade outfits, blankets or gifts for the precious little one in their life. The clothes are hip and fun for both girls and boys. Perfect for summer are the shortalls for boys in variety of colors and themes. There are lots of styles for girls, in particular, the cute and unique Pillowcase dress. Not only will your little girls have style she will also be cool and comfortable on those hot summer days. Monograms can be done on boutique clothing and there are numerous fonts to choose from.

Know someone having a baby? Want to buy them something different but useful? MarieLynn Boutique has the answer for you. There are a variety of wipe cases, diaper totes, diaper bags, baby blankets and burp clothes available. Buy individual items and or buy a coordinating gift set. Either way you can give the new mom stylish but useful baby items that will help make her transition into motherhood easier.

Other notable features of MarieLynn Boutiques are the gift certificates, gift registry and online parties. Host an online party with MarieLynn Boutiques and receive a hostess gift equal to a discount of 10% of all purchases made by your guests or you can choose to receive free items that total 10% of the value of all purchases made. Either way this is a great way to host an online party with a fun, hip, stylish boutique.

MarieLynn Boutique ships worldwide. Custom requests and designs are accommodated, just ask.

Purchase now from MarieLynn Boutique and receive a special discount of 10% off your purchase. Use discount code MLB09 at checkout.

Award of Gratitude

2009-04-05T19:55:00.010-04:00

I am extending a very big THANK YOU to Jennica at Peekaboo Kids Gear and I Want to be a Work at Home Mom for including me in the Attitude of Gratitude Award.

Working from home is not always easy but it is rewarding. It provides you with the ability to fulfill your career objectives but at the same time be there for and with your children. I started my business only a few short months ago and I must say it has been a very rewarding experience. One of the best parts of this experience besides having successful sales has been the people I have met and the relationships I have developed. Success does come with time and hard work but it also comes from the help of others. So to all those people who have helped me get my feet off the ground I want to say thank you.

To keep the spirit of the Attitude of Gratitude Award going I nominate the following ten people.

Adventures of Whimsical Walney - Great information provided about CPSIA.

Cafe Handmade - A great place to find everything handmade.

Imaginations - Distinctive and unique photo cards for any occasion.

Marielynn Boutique - Great children's boutique.

My Charmed Life - A blog with information, product reviews and giveaways.

Mom Bloggers Club - A great forum for mom bloggers to meet, network, exchange ideas, blog
posts or just chat.

Retail Minded- A blog about the retail world with valuable information for wholesalers and retailers.

TLC Silver Jewelry- Perfect shopping for the silver jewelry lover.

WAHMPub- A forum for work at home mom and dad to exchange ideas as well as shop in the the WAHMPub shopping mall.

WAHMGroup- A place for work at home moms to connect, gather information and learn.

The Rules of Accepting and Sharing this Award
1. Put the logo on your blog or post.
2. Nominate at least 10 blogs that show an attitude of gratitude
3. Link to your nominees within your post
4. Comment on their blogs to let them know they’ve received this award
5. Share the love and link to this post and the person who nominated you for the award. Tell us how you’ve come to have an attitude of gratitude

Graphics and Website Design by Deanna

2009-03-28T09:35:00.016-04:00

Need A Great Web Designer? Meet Deanna at designsbydeanna.net

When I started my website I was relatively new to online selling, knew very little about creating a website and knew even less about SEO. Thanks to all the people I have worked with this venture has been relatively easy and I will say I believe successful.

I want to extend a huge THANK YOU to Deanna at designsbydeanna.net. After many hours of searching for a web designer I stumbled on Deanna’s website. I was immediately drawn in by her work and I must say, I hit the jackpot when I found Deanna. Her designs are fun, colorful, whimsical and really portray the image of the company in which she is designing for. Deanna really understands how to tell a story with graphics.

In addition to her wonderful artist ability, Deanna is a pleasure to work with. She is responsive to all questions, very patient and always willing to tweak something just ever so slightly if it makes you happy. I have asked a lot of questions and Deanna has always been more than willing to share information and give explanations.

I encourage anyone who is looking for website graphics, blog graphics or logo design to visit Deanna at www.designsbydeanna.net. I can guarantee you will not be disappointed by what you see and you will be more than happy with the end results and service you receive.

Welcome to the Party!!!!

2009-03-23T11:05:00.009-04:00

Welcome to Little Miss Julia. This is my first time participating in the Ultimate Blog Party. I am excited to meet new people and to be a part of this huge event.

For those of you visiting my blog for the first time welcome and to those of you who have been here before welcome back. On my blog I introduce you to products I love for both girls and moms, introduce informative and useful websites and discuss fun and varied topics. For your convenience there is a link direct to our shopping site.

I hope you visit and browse around our selection fun hair accessories for girls. If you want a color or color combination not shown you can create your own. Custom designs are always welcome and there is even a create our own barrette option that lets you design the barrette of your choice.

New spring items are coming and look out for exciting giveaways and discounts soon to appear on this blog. Come join the fun, follow my blog and if you have an item you would like reviewed and showcased contact me via the contact link above.

You can visit 5 Minutes for Mom to see more party details and prizes. Have fun and enjoy the party!!!!

How I Make Working At Home With Kids A Success

2009-03-22T19:36:00.002-04:00

Do you want to work from home but wonder, how can I do that with my kids around? You can and it is not as hard as many want to be work at home moms think. I have worked from home ever since my son was born and I recently started, Little Miss Julia. Five and a half years ago when my son was a newborn I could not bear having anyone else take care of him. Luckily, I had the luxury and flexibility to work from home. At first I was told you can’t do that with a newborn, then it was you can’t do that with a toddler and the story goes on and on. I did do it and still do it using some creative tactics with my children.

Balancing work and family is not always easy and in order to achieve success working at home you need to be flexible. When my son was an infant I would do work early in the morning when he was sleeping, during naps and when he was down for the night. It worked perfectly. As he grew and was awake a lot more I sat him with me on the chair and worked on my laptop. Needless to say he learned how to use a computer at an early age and at five and a half loves to play in Excel. In between work we had our fun doing whatever we were doing. I did not stress if something did not get done during the day because I knew I could do it early the next morning or at night. So many people say I can’t do that I would have to get up at 5:00 am. Yes you do and working from home requires some sacrifices like waking up early or staying up late. However, it is worth if you want to be home with your children.

My son is now in school full time and my daughter goes three full days. When they are at school I am at my office working for my family business. When I decided to start a business I knew I would have to squeeze it in between work, the kids and daily life. I found the perfect way to do that was to involve my kids in making the barrettes. I let them “help” design new styles, pick new colors and have them give me their opinion on my designs. I involved them in the website when it was being developed and everyday they want to check see if there are orders. I show them other sites that we are posted on and or reviewed on. I share with them if we got a new retail account and share in the general excitement of the business. I have found that by involving them rather then telling them I am working has made running a business from home easy to do. I will not say it is always a breeze and there are days they want nothing to do with it. However a simple explanation that I just need to finish this one thing and we can play usually works. Open communication and explanations go much further than “be quite I am working”.

I recently got a new retail account. It was at a store I did not want to go to but my daughter was insistent. We went in and I realized this could be a good account. I spoke to the manager and we got an order. I give my daughter the credit for getting that account and she is so proud and laughs whenever I tell her it is because of her we sold that store. She is only three and a half but she thinks she sold the barrettes and loves to talk about it. She now asks if we are going to sell barrettes today. Giving her some ownership of a success has made her want to go to stores rather then complaining we have to go.

I think the key to working at home with your kids around is to not exclude them from your activities but to include them. By doing so they are not going to feel as if all you want to do is work. I am sure that if I told my kids to be quite all the time and not to bother me my efforts of trying to run a business from home would fail. Rather than having excitement for what I do they would have resentment.

If you want to work from home, you can. Just remember to be flexible, show your kids what you do and try to involve them. Having them do the simplest of tasks like typing a number on a spreadsheet for you can go a long way. With time and trial and error you will find the pattern that works best for you and your children. Once you figure it out it can be happy and fulfilling for everyone.

Help, Your Daughter Won't Let You Brush Her Hair!!!!

2009-03-16T06:00:00.005-04:00

You should have left you house five minutes ago; your daughters hair is a mess and your kids are obviously going to be late for school. Sound familiar? I have heard this story from many of my friends, have seen the results of this on many a head and have experienced it myself. However, for me, leaving the house with messy hair is unacceptable.

I recently dropped my daughter off at school and saw a child’s hair that was such a mess I wondered how the parents could let her walk out their door. This child truly had bedhead!!! Children learn from their parents and learning to take pride in yourself I believe is one of the most valuable lessons a parent can teach their child. It is hard chasing your little one around the room for five minutes and is sometimes easier to give up than to keep fighting. However, you don’t want to give up because you are shaping the future self image and respect your child has for themself and how others view them. Since everyone experiences this at one point or another, I thought I would share some of the tactics I have used to combat the battle.

When my daughter was very young she would fight me every time the brush came out. At 2 ½ I had enough and told her she could stay home alone if she did not let me do her hair. She ran away and I walked towards the garage and said “have a good day”. Needless to say I would never have actually left her but she did not know that and the tears started and she asked me to brush her hair. We went through that routine a few times and by the third time, after I had my son and dogs get in the car, she knew I meant business. Within a week of doing that she let me do her hair every morning.

Children want to feel like they have control over something. What better way to get what you want and let them get what they want then by letting them have a choice on the hair accessory they wear each day. Give your daughter the choice between two or three pieces to wear in her hair. If you let her help be in control of her appearance chances are she will be happy to participate, happy to make the decision and at the same time look pretty.

Certain things have to been done everyday but there is no reason it should not be fun. My daughter keeps me company in the morning while I do my hair and makeup. I let her “pretend” to put on makeup and get all done up for the day. She always asks if I could do her hair the way I did mine. Why not, what is a few extra minutes with the hair blower and a little hair product. These fun few minutes everyday makes her have an interest in her appearance, she takes pride in herself and we have fun at the same time.

It may be a fight that lasts only a few days or a month but you are the parent and you can and should win. Use creative tactics to get the result you want. Make getting dressed and brushing hair a fun, positive part of the day that will bring lasting lifetime value to your child.

New Online Shopping Mall and More......

2009-03-08T19:38:00.014-04:00

Ever feel like you are going from one website to another to fill your needs? Wish you could have a one stop website that provides shopping, fun conversation, discounts, entertaining videos and how to instructions? Carla Phillips, mother of three, has provided an answer to this. She has used her expertise as an SEO professional and her knowledge of marketing to develop a website geared to helping small businesses sell their product and at the same time create an online community that can share information and good times. This fun site, WAHMPUB.com is a one stop shop that will meet all your needs. Designed with fun graphics, WAHMPUB.com has a shopping mall showcasing small businesses run by work at home moms and dads. Categories available are Oh Baby, Rugrats, Trendy Chics, Hot Mammas, Furry Friends plus many more.

After shopping for your little ones, yourself, your special man or your furry friend you can hop over to the forum which offers fun conversation, tips and helps answer questions on various topics and issues. It is a great way for moms and dads to share information and experiences as well as to just enjoy some friendly conversation.

Another feature available and unique to this site is the how to make stuff instructions. Ever wonder how to make paper, paint, candy or glass? By clicking on the how to button you will find out. Instructions are also available for many more items. In addition to this, one WAHM or WAHD is featured each month in an article highlighting their accomplishments and businesses.

One special aspect of WAHMPUB.com is the Super Mom Stimulus. This program is designed to help in need moms or dads on a given month. Starting in April 2009, a winner will be announced on one Monday of each month. The prize is a $200.00 check to help the individual get through the hard times. A mom or dad can be nominated by anyone who thinks they are deserving of this award. All you need to do is send an email to supermom@wahmpub.com explaining why this person deserves to win.

Visit WAHMPUB.com to experience shopping, stimulating conversation and many more fun features.

Cococare Products: A Natural Way To Protect Your Skin

2009-03-01T11:23:00.068-05:00

Are you a pregnant mom, a mom who recently had a baby or just a mom with dry skin or chapped lips? If so you will be happy to read on and learn about Cococare Products.

Cococare has been producing skincare products for over 40 years. All their products contain natural ingredients such as Cocoa Butter, Shea Butter, Vitamin E, Vitamin C and Aloe Vera providing the most effective means for moisturizing and protecting your skin.

The Cococare 100% Cocoa Butter Stick is used as an all over skin moisturizer as well as during pregnancy to prevent stretch marks and after pregnancy to reduce the effects of stretch marks. It is also used by people who have stretch marks from weight loss. This product is all natural containing only 100% pure cocoa butter.

For those who like Cocoa Butter, Cococare has an extended line that includes lip balm, creams, lotions and body oil. You will be able to protect your skin from head to toe with Cococare’s full line of Cocoa Butter products.

Creams, lotions, body oils and lip balms are also available in Vitamin E, Shea Butter and Vitamin C. If you like a 100% natural product there is a 100% Vitamin E Oil and a 100% Shea Butter jar.

For pregnant and new moms, Cococare has the Maternity Solutions line. The items within this brand include Maternity Solutions Stretch Mark Cream and Maternity Solutions Painful Breast Cream. The Maternity Solutions Stretch Mark Cream is a mixed of botanicals, cocoa butter and elastin that help in the protection against stretch marks. The Painful Breast Cream helps in reducing discomfort in the breast caused by pregnancy.

Visit Cococare at ww w.cococare.com and see all the wonderful products available to meet your skincare needs.

Welcome to Little Miss Julia's Blog

2009-02-25T20:05:00.004-05:00

Welcome to Little Miss Julia’s blog. Today is our official launch. I will be providing you with helpful tips for using hair accessories in your girl’s hair; I will introduce you to products I love that are great finds for girls, moms or both and we will also talk about varied and fun topics and news. I look forward to sharing information with you and hope you enjoy reading.

You can also follow Little Miss Julia on Twitter at http://twitter.com/littlemissjulia or become a fan on Facebook at http://companies.to/littlemissjuila.com

So you can get to know me better, below is a little history on how and why Little Miss Julia, hair accessories for girls, was developed as well as an overview of the products and services offered.

I started making barrettes for my daughter because I could not find pretty good quality accessories for girls in the store. As she started wearing them people started to comment on “how cute they were” and there was such a positive response that I decided to form a company and sell them. From that Little Miss Julia was born.

I believe a girl’s hair should always look pretty. I enjoy creating accessories that add to the beauty of any girl’s hairstyle. My goal is that my customers feel they have an accessory that completes their girl’s total look.

Little Miss Julia offers a full range of stylized hair accessories. Each piece is handmade to order. Designs consist of crystal flowers, multi colored flowers, smiling daisy flowers, ladybugs, strawberries and apples. When you purchase a Little Miss Julia hair accessory you are not getting just another bow. You are getting an embellished, stylized barrette or alligator clip that will add style and glamour to the hair of the girl you love.

If you want to visit our site and view our products just click on “Shop” at the top of the blog. We have also provided you with a handy “View Cart” link so that you can checkout right from here.

Thanks for visiting and I hope you enjoy following the blog of Little Miss Julia, hair accessories for girls.