Who's to Blame for The Kids Feet (Genetically Speaking)?

I'm at it again.

Posting pictures of things that I shouldn't.

Like my toilet.

But it's not my fault, you should send me content.

You know how people joke about doctors not knowing which end to slap when an unfortunate baby is born.

After our kids were born and that conundrum was out of the way, the first thing that Ed and I thought was...

"Whose Fault Is It"?

No, I'm not talking about negligence but genetics.

For 2.5 years, we have pointed fingers at each other for the "messed-up-foot-situation".

The time has come, for you my followers to tell Ed that he is to blame, to set the record straight.

Whose Feet Are Whose?

Last Day to Enter and Get in on the Action!

June 30th is your last day to enter the following giveaways;

1. Kitchenaid Mixer. If you say you don't need one, I don't believe you. US Only.
2. $25 GC from Baby Clay. She has the cutest stuff. Check it out for yourself. Worldwide.
3. The Great Canadian Blog Bash, #TGCBB. Seven prizes totalling $112. Support Canadian and enter to win! Technically closes on July 1. Canada Only.

Don't forget to enter the other giveaways that I currently have listed in the "Current Giveaways" section in the right hand column, there ------>
or on the "Giveaways" page HERE.

Your best bet is to subscribe via email or RSS feed, there ------->
and then you get up-to-date information around the clock.

Note that I have two more giveaways scheduled this week with more coming all the time.

Good Luck!

Besos, The Zoo

I Was Adopted as an Infant {Random Fact}

As I alluded to in my last post, I am adopted.

I was given up for adoption at the ripe old age of birth (and you know all about that).

According to my paperwork, my biological parents were in their late 20's. Both had been married (my biological father, was separated). They fell madly in love. While I can't say for sure that I was planned, they were definitely excited that I was on my way.

Things didn't work out like they expected.

For whatever reason, they both decided to put me up for adoption. Based on notes provided by the "Children's Aid Society of Ontario", it appears that I look like and have a lot of characteristics of my biological father. He was a real looker...

For the first five months of my life, I was placed with a foster family that had five kids of their own. Party. They documented my first smile, roll over, fever, you name it and put all this information in my file. I know that my parents appreciate having that piece of my history.

When I finally arrived in my forever home, the one that was made just for me, my parents were overjoyed.

Double win!

I have never tried to find my biological parents although I've always said that I would. I do not know their name or any identifying details. My parents would be 105% supportive if I chose to do this. We'll see...

I have known that I was "special" from the moment I could remember. It's not everyone that has two mothers and two fathers that love them.

Note 1: Ironicially, Ed is also adopted. I like to tell people that we met at an "Adoption Conference". Not true.

Note 2: My brother is also adopted. We are not biologically related. Although you wouldn't know it. More on that next week when I write about...

"How I Sold my Brother for 25 Cents".

TweetShare This Story of Adoption.

Have any questions? Feel free to post them in the comments section or send me an email (journeysofthezoo at hotmail dot com).

Get Caught up in the Series, it's Addictive!

8. I Tore my Knee Cartilage Highjumping,
7. I got a Migraine to Avoid Ballet,
6. I Cut off all my Hair and gave it to Barbie,
5. I Got Kicked out of Brownies,
4. I Pooped My Pants,
3. I Almost Sold my Brother for 25 Cents,
2. I Was Adopted,
1. I Was Born.

Besos, The Zoo

Finding Latin Culture in a Small Town Setting

Living in Small Town Canada is kind of like living in Mexico.

When I'm driving the "backroads", I always wave to everyone I see. They wave back.

When I'm out for a walk, I always say "hi" to everyone I see. They say "hi" back (except for "The Wolves").

When people come over, I give them a hug and kiss on the cheek (just once, we're not European/French). They look at me funny. Okay, maybe all things don't "translate" so well.

I know all my neighbours. They know me. I feel a part of something bigger.
A Family.

I like that.

Note: Latin Culture is diverse. What happens in one country, town and even neighbourhood can differ. I am using Chiapas, Mexico for my comparison.

What do you like about other cultures?

Besos, The Zoo

Say Hello Diamonds & Avon Giveaway, US/CAN, 07/05

Host: Mommies Point of View
Co-Host: Oh! My Heartsie 

One lucky winner will receive one pair of 4 ct Pantina Earring Studs from "Say Hello Diamonds" with a value of $195.00! The earrings are made with polished Sterling Silver.

In addition to the Earrings, the winner will receive a Bonus~Avon Gift Set Valued at $66.00.

Total Prize Value of $261.00!

Interested in knowing more, visit "Mommies Point of View" for a Full Review!

Duration. The Giveaway will start on June 28th and end on July 5th.
Eligibility. USA and Canada. Reference the "Terms and Conditions" of the Rafflecopter form for more details.
Disclosure. Journeys of The Zoo did not receive any product in exchange for posting this giveaway. We are not responsible for winner selection or prize shipment (or lack there of).
Remember. When the rafflecopter form (question #17) asks "Which Blog are you On", enter "Journeys of The Zoo". Note that the "like" for Red Pill Please is not working. I will post here if/when it does. I am not responsible for the Rafflecopter form.
Questions? Send an email to journeysofthezoo at hotmail dot com

Besos, The Zoo

To Participate in the event follow the instructions in the Rafflecopter!!

Good Luck!

 Say Hello Diamonds On Facebook

Say Hello Diamonds on Twitter

Say Hello Diamonds on Pinterest

Thank you to everyone that is promoting this giveaway on your blog!!

This contest is over and the Rafflecopter form has been removed.

Besos, The Zoo

This giveaway is posted on Linkies Contest Linkies and Contest Girl

What's in The Zoo's Mailbox for June 26, 2012

1. BowTie from Sunny Vanilla

Jen sent me the most adorable bowtie EVER. Seriously, look at Max sporting it (minus the ketchup smeared all over his face, I always swore that I'd never be one of THOSE mothers, back to the tie).

Seriously Adorable

I ordered the plaid, seersucker, blue/green (size two yrs). It's plenty big enough and you can't even tell that it's handmade (although that's the best part!). In addition, it will go with almost everything (note to Nanna, perhaps I should have changed his shirt, you know, to maximize the "matching factor", I'll know for next time).

If you know a boy, he needs a tie. If he already has one, he needs another. Don't know a boy, check out the bags and purses that Sunny Vanilla has to offer.

2. Cloth Diaper from Sew Silly

Kammie graciously gave me one of her cloth diapers.
Problem. I don't know anything about cloth diapers (I know what you were going to ask, don't).

I got my choice of fabric and I picked this one. So pretty!
Problem. It didn't come with any care instructions.

I emailed Kammie a few questions.
Problem Solved. She emailed me the following,

For Washing. Wash on normal cycle with cloth diaper friendly detergent. Hot water/cold rinse.
For Drying. High heat dry or line/sun dry.
For General Care. About once a month you will need to strip your diapers. After regular wash but before the dry cycle wash again this time with 5 drops of Tea tree oil. Then dry.
Insert. The insert is made to be folded in half with the free side against baby's skin. You could triple it if needed but I think it would be too skinny that way.
More Information. Diaperpin.com.
Laundry Detergent Chart available at www.diaperjungle.com/detergent-chart.html or you can make your own detergent for super cheap (that's what I do).

I can't comment on quality or function because they're the first cloth diaper that I've ever owned. But, all the seams are really neat and finished, the snaps are solid (I know enough that I like snaps better than velcro!) and I gave the elastic around the leg a good workout and everything looks in great working order!

Check out all the amazing fabrics, cloth diapers, slings and pouches that Sew Silly has to offer. You won't be disappointed by the quality, price or customer service that you receive.

3. Red Cabochon Flower and White Pearl Necklace from Sodapop Designs.

Dana is a mind reader. She must be because she sent me a necklace with my favourite accent colour... red.

The flower is very intricate, or so it appears, not that I'd really know. You see, Artemis has taken ownership of the necklace, and won't let anyone near it. Not an issue for this review because that girl knows her stuff. She loves the feeling of the pearls and keeps asking to look at herself in the mirror (note that this symptom may not be attributed to the new necklace...).

Red isn't your colour (really, it should be)? No worries, Dana has tons of other items to wet your appetite. Check out Sodapop Designs for all your "I want to look fantastic" needs!

4. Princess Revolution CD from Moey

This is Moey's third album and it's all about "The Princess". The kids (read: Max) are young enough that they couldn't care less if Moey was singing about Princesses or Olympic Highjumping. The important part is that they love the beat and the songs don't annoy the crap out of you as a parent that has to listen to it 1,231 times a day are catchy and even teach concepts such as counting and sharing.

One song even talks about having the courage to sing off key something that I totally have no idea about. I'm pretty sure that all the songs are original. If not, I was never a child.

Check out Moey's website to learn about her previous two CD's and "All Things Moey".

5. Monogrammed Luggage Tags from Birds on a Line

I LOVE ALL THINGS MONOGRAMMED. Have I made myself clear?

When Sandra told me that I'd won personalized luggage tags, I was thrilled to be able to cross luggage tags off my list. When she offered to take my logo and completely "Zooify" the tag, I was awed. Talk about a happy customer!

Both sides of the tags were personalized (the back contains my name and blog coordinates) and came with plastic and black leather straps. I can't wait to go somewhere so that I can use them. Won't be hard to find my bags in a crowd.

Don't travel, no problem. Birds on a Line offers gift labels and notepads as well. Besides, you could always get something for me the kids.

6. Necklace Leaf Buddy from GermanDolls

Ulla is the owner of GermanDolls and uses her German heritage as her inspiration. Her little Leafbuddies (as well as other products) are made from roving wool.

I don't know how she does it but the colours are so vibrant. I decided to use her photograph as I couldn't do the doll justice. The doll came with care instructions as well as a warning that "The dolls are handsewn and do have small heads" so to beware. Note that I already knew that because Ulla realized that I had young kids and sent me an email beforehand. Better to be safe than sorry.

Artemis and Max have enjoyed carrying their doll around and even had her sitting (on a chair) for their daily tea party. Visit GermanDolls and give the gift of "nothing says I love you like a toy made by a real person" (quoted by Ulla herself).

  Besos, The Zoo

Wordless Wednesday: Invasion of the Vacuum

Besos, The Zoo

"I Have Burdened you Enough" Giveaway, WW, 07/31

In my quest for world domination, I have been trying to hypnotize your eyes and mind with all things "Zoo". In the process, I have blogged about the woes of dirty toilets, ingesting leaded balls and I haven't even mentioned Reina's trip this week to express her reoccuring fistula (see how kind I am).

Enough is enough! Upon reflection, I have burdened you enough (for now, but I'll be back). Well, that and I'm looking for some people to guest post while I'm away this summer.

In turn, the "I have burdened you enough" giveaway was born. Got a story to tell but no where to post it? Tell me about it.

Prize. The opportunity to have your story posted on this blog and publicized to my followers.
Eligibility. Anyone and everyone that is interested in sharing a story.
The One Rule. Keep it legal. As in, don't bother sending me anything that isn't appropriate to print on my "Family Friendly" blog.
Other. I'll even let you throw in a few pictures if you're so inclined. Keep the length within reason. People can only read so much about Aunt Elise's false teeth.
Duration. In anticipation of my mailbox flooding with interest, I will run this giveaway until July 31, 2012 and there may very well be more than one winner.
Legal Stuff that I Made up. I reserve the right to choose what I post on my blog and I do not need to provide any reasoning for not posting what you send me. If I do choose to post your content, you give me the rights to do so. I will give you credit for the content.

Dust off those cobwebs, send me an email (journeysofthezoo at hotmail dot com) and remember,

You only live once!

Besos, The Zoo

The Great Canadian Blog Bash 2012 {Giveaway}, CAN, 07/01

The Zoo is so excited to be a part of this years "The Great Canadian Blog Bash"!

Not only is it in honour of Canada's Birthday (July 1) but it is also all about showcasing Canadian talent.

One lucky Canadian will be the recipient of the following seven prizes valued at $112.50!

Happy Canada Day!

1. Maya from BKInspired. I live in a little picturesque town on the shores of Lake Ontario with my Mountie husband and two little boys (B&K). I am inspired by everything around me and that is reflected in my shop as I tend to have a variety of styles. Every customer is so different and I love to collaborate with them to create the perfect gift or something for themselves. Maya is offering the winner a Hand Pyrographed Maple Leaf Wall Art on 5x8 bamboo valued at $35. Also, from now until July 15, use the purchase code "zoo2012" to receive 20% off your order!

2. Gemma from Audrey and Gemma. Gemma is the creative genius behind her etsy shop, audreyandgemma and personal blog, www.thesweetestdigs.com. It's not just me that thinks she's all that and a bag of chips, as she was just awarded Cityline’s "Blogger of the Month" for June. Congratulations! I hope that Gemma's creativity is contagious. Gemma is offering the winner their choice of an "i love canada" watercolour map print (based on an original watercolour painting).

3. Jennifer from Current Works. I am a glass artist living on a riverbank near Canada’s capital city, Ottawa. I work with stained and fused glass mixed with photography, gem stones, copper, reclaimed iron, and other metals. I like the combination of modern and feminine. This glass pendant represents my love of glass and the natural Canadian landscape; a perfect combination! It is created with glass frit (a powdered glass) that is then fused in my kiln twice to create the desired effect. Jennifer is offering the winner a Glass necklace featuring a Canadian Landscape.

4. Susan from SuzieQTee. I was looking for some ideas on how to craft with recycled material when I stumbled upon a website showing how to make T-shirt yarn. I was immediately intrigued by the idea and that's when SuzieQTee was born. The T-shirt yarn (also known as tarn) is made from recycled t-shirt material that has been pre-washed and pre-shrunk. The yarn is hand cut into a continuous strip of cloth and then given a gentle tug which creates the rolled yarn. Susan is offering the winner a Tarn Toy Turtle valued at $35.

5. Casey from FanFare Designs. Situated in rural Western Quebec just outside of the Captial of Canada, at an in-home studio, Casey, creator of Fanfare Designs, specializes in creating beautiful, modern wedding invitations and stationery. Recognized for excellent customer reviews and for using high quality materials through WeddingWire's Bride's Choice Awards 2012, be sure to check out her Fanfare Designs Etsy Shop for all your stationery needs. Casey is offering the winner 10 Customized Chevron Note Cards. Maybe a Red and White set with "Eh?" for the occasion?

6. Juwon from Juju's Hair Accessories. I am a stay at home mom to a beautiful 19 month old Boy. Yes, a boy. It's pretty hard to design pretty hair accessories when there's no one to model them. However, I've managed to get around this by remembering my childhood and recalling what I wanted as a little girl. I started out making hair bows/clips and have since expanded to bracelets, earrings, rings, and even boys bowties. Juwon is offering the winner their choice of a ladybug or polka dot package (headband, hair bow(s) and/or hair clips) valued at $20. That's not all, from now until July 15, use the purchase code "JourneysofTheZoo" to receive 15% off your order!

7. Megan from Bayleaf Buttons. Sharing thoughts, views, laughs and anything else you can put on a button! My name is Megan, I am the owner of Bayleaf Buttons which specialises in 1.5" Pinback Buttons. We have a variety of premade items in our Etsy store but we also LOVE to do custom orders of all quantities from 1 to infinity! Megan is giving away a gift certificate for $6.50CDN towards her store.

Free. Note that all prizes include free shipping within Canada (including the gift certificate). Sponsors are not allowed to enter the giveaway, however, friends and family can (and are encouraged to do so!).

Disclosure. I was going to write that I did not receive anything, nada, neite in exchange for posting this giveaway. However, Maya went and sent me one or her original pyrographed bookmarks. Thanks for messing everything up Maya (smile).

Eligibility. This giveaway is open to Canadians Only and will be open until 11:59pm EDT on July 1, 2012. Winner selection will be made via random.org. I will contact the winner via email (please be sure to leave yours) and the winner will have 48 hours to respond at which time, I will pick another winner. Once the winner is confirmed, the sponsors will contact them directly.

Questions? Email me at journeysofthezoo at hotmail dot com

The Rafflecopter Form and Linky have been removed.

This giveaway is posted on Linkies Contest Linkies, Contest Girl and Win Free Stuff.

  Besos, The Zoo

Bloggers Wanted: Hello Diamonds And Avon Giveaway

We are looking for {20 Bloggers To Help Promote} "Hello Diamonds And Avon Giveaway". For Helping To Promote You will Receive a Facebook Link  Referrals can Win A Banner Ad On 3 Blogs. Your participation in the event will help you with your social media reach and help you gain traffic.

The prize for this event is 1 pair of 4 ct Pantina Earring Studs with a value of $195.00 from Say Hello Diamonds, are made with polished Sterling Silver there will be one winner. And in Addition to the Earrings there is an Avon of Gift Set including

The Giveaway will start on June 28th and end on July 5th. To sign up for this blogger opportunity [Click Here].

If You Have Any Questions You Can Contact Karren: karrenh@gmail.com
Glenda: mommiespointofreview@gmail.com

Tell them "Journeys of The Zoo" sent you!

Besos, The Zoo

Giveaway: Baby Clay $25GC, #SummerSizzle, WW, 06/30

Welcome to the Summer Sizzle Giveaway Hop hosted by Mom With a Dot Com. This giveaway hop features items that you can use this summer (or anytime really) with each of the 76 participating blogs offering a prize valued at $25 or more!

This hop will run from Sunday, June 24 until Saturday, June 30, inclusive. Hot!

Prize. Remember how I raved about the piece of clay magic that I received? Well, lucky you because the prize for this giveaway is a $25 gift certificate from Baby Clay!

Discount. Don't forget that from now unil July 15, Rebecca is offering a 10% discount off all orders with the coupon code "JourneysoftheZoo". Thanks for giving so generously Rebecca!

Eligibility. This giveaway is open WORLDWIDE and includes FREE shipping. Free sure is a great price!

Questions? Email me if you have any questions (journeysofthezoo at hotmail dot com).

Other. Be sure to *hop on over to the other participating blogs and hopefully win a prize or two, I know I will.

*See the Linky (below the Rafflecopter form) for all the other participating blogs.

Good Luck!

The Rafflecopter Form and Linky have been Removed.

This giveaway is posted on Linkies Contest Linkies and Contest Girl

Besos, The Zoo

Review: Baby Clay (Clay Flower Barrette)

Over the past few months, I have been fortunate enough to be the recipient of many gorgeous items. I never grow tired of sharing with you the generous people behind those gifts.

Today's "Thanks" goes out to Rebecca from Baby Clay.

She was kind enough to gift me a $25 gift certificate from her shop and I picked the "Grape Plumeria Flower", with an alligator clip (there are six fasteners to choose from). This barrette is handmade out of polymer clay. Truly one-of-a-kind!

From the moment it arrived, Artemis has been asking to wear it. Isn't it great how it even matches her dress (yes, I'm like that). A friend commented that it might be too big or heavy for Artemis' head. However, it's surprising light and is just 1.75" in diameter. Considering that she didn't even have any hair in December, it stays in no problem. It's just big enough to get noticed but not enough to have people ask what's sitting on your head (smile).

Here's a bit about the woman behind the magic...

I am Canadian but have lived in NJ since 2004 (my husband is American).

I was trained as a commercial pilot before opening up my Etsy shop and Web site, Baby Clay?

The name BabyClay was derived from the fact that I am dying to have a baby so the funds from all my sales benefit my single goal of convincing my husband that we're financially stable enough to finally start a family!

Don't have any hair of your own? No worries, Rebecca also makes rings, earrings and fascinators (perhaps with a toupe?) to picture a few. She has something for everyone's palette.

That's not all. Rebecca is offering everyone in the entire world (and that's a lot of people), a 10% discount off their order from now until July 15th (using the coupon code "JourneysofTheZoo"). Help a sweet lady out and stop by her website. Her future children will thank you!

And last (but not least), in all her awesomeness, Rebecca loves summer so much that she's offering one of you a $25 gift certificate to her shop! She's also including free shipping WORLDWIDE, wow!

Want to know how to get in on the fun? Enter to win a $25 GC from Baby Clay as part of the Summer Sizzle Giveaway Hop!

Enter to WIN!

Note that I received product from Rebecca that enabled me to conduct this review. All opinions are my own.

  Besos, The Zoo

Random Fact Friday: Hard to Believe but, I Was Born.

Brandy, a fellow Canadian who blogs over at Insane Mamacita is running a social experiment called "Random Fact Friday Blog Hop".

The game works such that you write a random fact about yourself (bet you couldn't guess) and post it somewhere and then people read it and then other people comment and are thankful that they don't have your random fact, and, you probably get the picture.

Seeing as I'm (almost) always up for a party, I'm going to play along.

In order to strategically increase my chances of not repeating myself (or is that decrease my chances of repeating myself?) I thought that I would start at the beginning.

You know, how I was born and then my parents adopted me. The usual stuff.

But then it happened...

I dropped a piece of salad on my leg.

And since I'd put on my own homemade dressing (equal parts olive oil and balsamic vinegar, dijon-ie mustard and crushed garlic, yum), it stained the pants I was wearing.

Then, I got to thinking about the pants and that maybe it wasn't so bad that I'd stained them because I'd recently bought them (Laz House Special) and Nanna wanted to steal them really liked them. But now that they were stained maybe she wouldn't want them so I could keep them for myself. Although, I don't want stained pants either. Minor technicality.

And then I thought that if I made the random fact about me that "I was currently wearing stained pants", people would never read my blog again and it might even turn into another "Dirty Toilet Debacle" (you know, people wondering what exactly was on my pants) and then, I just forgot what I was writing about in the first place.

Then I rememembered and given my hubris above, I thought that I would just keep it simple. My random fact:

I Was Born.

Get Caught up in the Series.

8. Highjumping is Dangerous. Just like Chess ,
7. I got a Migraine to Avoid Ballet,
6. I Cut off all my Hair and gave it to Barbie
5. I Got Kicked out of Brownies,
4. I Pooped My Pants
3. I Almost Sold my Brother for 25 Cents
2. I Was Adopted,
1. I Was Born.

Besos, The Zoo

Giveaway: Smile Brilliant! Teeth Whitening, WW, July 6

Smile Brilliant! is a national dental lab designed to help their customers receive professional strength teeth whitening without ever visiting a dentist! Their lab was specifically created to curb the high cost of cosmetic teeth whitening that is charged at dental offices around the world.

The following review was done by Donna's Deals and More.

I was super excited to receive my Brilliantly Simple Package. And it really could not have been easier. You just paint the whitening gel on your teeth, put in the clear protective tray, and turn on the LED activating light. Then you wait 20 minutes! After the 20 minutes I wasn't sure if I there was any difference but about an hour or two later my husband said he could definitely see a difference and that was after just one use!

They also offer a 100% results satisfaction guarantee! If you're not completely satisfied with your whitening results using their system, simply return the custom bleaching trays within 30 days and they'll give you a full product refund.

To purchase your own kit, head HERE and get 20% off with coupon code SMILE20.

Prize. One lucky winner will have a chance to win their very own Smile Brilliant! Whitening Kit. All you have to do is fill out the Rafflecopter below.

Eligibility. Open Worldwide. Must be 18 yrs or older.

Duration. This giveaway will run from June 22 until July 6, inclusive.

Disclosure. Journeys of The Zoo did not receive any compensation for this publication. All opinions are those of "Donna's Deals and More" and may differ from those of my own. Journeys of The Zoo is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment.

Good Luck!

This contest is over and the Rafflecopter form has been removed.

This contest has been posted to Linkies Contest Linkies and Contest Girl.

Besos, The Zoo

Who is the Winner of the Made by LinLin Jewelry?

It sounds like a line from the game Clue... "Mrs. Maples in the Conservatory with the Billhook".

I was going to say, "all good things must come to an end" but I said that for my last giveaway. I should have saved it for this one because, "all good things must come to an end".

This is the last time (for the foreseeable future) that we will have Ed pick a number out of thin air use "The Zoo Method of Winner Selection".

As you can see, I've shifted from the traditional "comment method" of entering giveaways to using Rafflecopter. In turn, Rafflecopter (herein referred to as "RC"), uses a tool called "Random.org" in the backend which enables me, at the push of a button to select and publish the winner. More on that at a later date.

Out of 274 comments received (which is really great, thanks to all that participated), Ed picked the number... 167. Seriously, the guy couldn't pick a number like 1 or 274. Sheesh. And the winning entry of the Made by LinLin giveaway with "Following your blog on Linky" is...

Congratulations Birgit!

Birgit has been contacted by email and has until 1am EDT on Sunday, June 24 to confirm receipt of her prize. If I do not hear from her, Ed will pick number one another number.

Besos, The Zoo

Wordless Wednesday: A Button for your Thoughts

Besos, The Zoo

New Domain Name: Journeys of The Zoo (www.journeysofthezoo.com)

Journeys of The Zoo is excited to announce that we have purchased the domain name "www.journeysofthezoo.com".

We felt that in order to secure our quest for world domination for all of you to find us more easily, and a bunch of other technical stuff, it was high time that we got one. Not to get too technical but that also means that we have a new URL.

From now on, in the URL address bar of your internet browser (for example, Internet Explorer), replace this old URL:
http://www.journeysofthezoo.blogspot.com

with this new URL:

http://www.journeysofthezoo.com

Be sure to include it exactly as written above (with the "www.") and be sure to update your bookmarks/favorites with our new URL.

That's all. Life as usual. Continue on with your day.

I had all this text written explaining URL's and domain names and redirecting and then I realized that my loyal following wouldn't care in the least about all that stuff. For those of you that want to know more, check out this Wikipedia link on Domain Names and URLs.

If you have any problems, we can be reached via email at: journeysofthezoo at hotmail dot com.

Besos, The Zoo

Giveaway: Crafty Bees (Web Design), WW, 07/10

You see this blog design. Right here up here ^^^ and here >>>. I won it in a giveaway a couple of weeks ago and wrote about it here. Actually I won a "build-a-blogger designs", but the super talented, patient, flexible and kind Emily, co-owner of the "Crafty Bees" worked with me to "zooify" it.

Told you she was great!

Now here's a word from our sponsor (I've always wanted to write that).

My name is Emily and my sister (who blogs at happily going) and I are the creators at The Crafty Bees. We create hand made cards and now blog designs. I am pretty flexible when it comes the outcome, if someone has an idea in mind with what they want, I will do my best to accommodate. I like designing blogs and I like to think of myself as beautifying the blogosphere one blog at a time.

I have recently listed a number of premade templates such as; So Sweet, Pink and Gray, Just Lovely and Bumbledoo Golden Yellow but you can choose from any that are in my shop.

Prize. Consider it your lucky day because one of you will win your choice of a premade design from Emily's shop (a $25.00 value)!

Eligibility. This giveaway is open WORLDWIDE, assuming that you can communicate with Emily (she even speaks Spanish!). Sorry wordpress folks, this is only for blogger/blogspot hosted blogs.

Discount. Don't want to try your luck, can't wait, no worries. Emily has kindly offered all of you a 20% discount in her shop from now until July 10 using the coupon code "Zoo20". Sweet!

Other. For those of you who have never entered a contest via Rafflecopter, here is a quick tutorial (with pictures) to help you out. Good Luck!

This giveaway has been advertised on Contest Girl and Your Local Giveaways.

Besos, The Zoo

Seeking Sponsors: #TGCBB Giveaway Starts June 25!

I'm getting really excited. I'm like that.

I've been annoying people working really hard to get sponsors for "The Great Canadian Blog Bash" in celebration of Canada's Birthday on July 1!

So far, there are seven confirmed sponsors with a total prize pack of $112.50! Talk about generous, Eh!

Check out what one lucky winner will score;

1. Hand Pyrographed Maple Leaf Wall Art from B K Inspired ($35)
2. "I Love Canada" print from Audrey and Gem ($16)
3. Glass Pendant from Current Works of Glass ($20)
4. Tarn Toy Turtle from SuzieQTee ($35)
5. Ten Customized Chevron Notecards from Fanfare Designs ($15)
6. Gift Certificate from Bayleaf Buttons ($6.50)
7. Hair Package from Juju's Hair Accessories ($20)

There's still time if you want to get involved or know someone who might. This is a great opportunity to get your shop, blog, products noticed with no advertising costs! No gift is too small, gift certificates are also cool. the only requirement is that you are Canadian.

Interested? Send me an email at journeysofthezoo at hotmail dot com and get in on the action!

Hope to hear from you!

  Besos, The Zoo

Can you Believe Who Has Turned Two.5 Years Young?

It was two and a half years ago that the kids were born (December 11, 2009). I don't think that I've ever published their birth story but if you want a little information, you can catch up on the (new) "About" page.

Where has the time gone?


I know that everyone says that but seriously, I don't remember the first 1.5 years (luckily I kept a detailed journal and this blog). Breastfeeding for two and missing Alexander kept me pretty busy and I can count the number of times that I left the house on one hand (not including our four month trip to Mexico).

Just to give you a baseline as to what the kids are doing, I thought that I'd include a copy of the milestones for 30-monthers issued by Nipissing District.

Top Ten (in our Books), Happy Father's Day!

Happy Father's Day!

Besos, The Zoo

Kitchenaid Mixer {Giveaway}, US Only, 06/30

Are you looking to "mix" up some great recipes for summer BBQ's and picnics? Journeys of The Zoo is excited to be a part of a great giveaway that will help you cook up a great time!

I've teamed up with 2 Kids and a Coupon and a great group of bloggers to bring you the "Mix It Up!" giveaway. One lucky winner will win the Kitchenaid Mixer shown above (ARV $350 at Bloomingdales) provided by American Family.

Enter to win using the Rafflecopter form below. Join the "American Family" and get they'll give you a free e-cookbook of gourmet brownie recipes!

Sorry, this giveaway is only open to legal residents of the United States. Please read the "Terms and Conditions" section of the Rafflecopter form for more details.

THE RAFFLECOPTER FORM HAS BEEN REMOVED

This giveaway is listed on Blog Giveaway Directory and Contest Girl.

Good Luck!

  Besos, The Zoo

Vintage Baby Revival Keeps Legs warm {Review}

You know how I always talk about how I appreciate it when people send me a personalized note with their gift. Well, Melissa from Vintage Baby Revival has really outdone herself. Opening up her package made me feel like a "kid in a candy shop". There were so many little items and each one was thought out and functional. And of course, she included a personalized note.

My prize, two legwarmers knitted by Melissa herself. The yarn (colours) were so beautiful and unique that it was difficult to pick. But, sacrifice myself I did and chose green and reeces pieces.

Each of the legwarmers came in their own owl "burlap like" drawstring bag (with logo/name stamped on the front) and a shipping tag attached (with removable string) that contained her name on one side and washing instructions/material content on the back.

Seeing as these are 75% wool and 25% nylon, she suggests machine wash cold and dry low. I love that it's so easy. I don't know about you but if something says "dry clean only or hand wash" I either don't buy it or throw it in the washing machine anyways and hope for the best.

Also included was a business card with an owl on it (I'm sensing a theme), one of her creations on the front (an owl) and balls of yarns on the back. The little personalized note came on card stock (love that too) with an owl stamp and a little strip of (wallpaper like) paper.

I absolutely loved the owl theme and DIY-like feel throughout.

Summer might be just around the corner, but around here, we can wear leg warmers all but two months of the year. Besides, it's a fashion statement and we know our fashion (tee, hee).

The only problem was that the package arrived when Nanna was here (I'll have to time things better) and the leg warmers were too cute (totally Melissa's fault!). In turn, one pair was stolen traded (for a not so nice pair). Before you go and feel sorry for me, did I mention that Melissa threw in an extra pair of warmers. Yes, that makes three pairs in total. Her excuse was that I'd had to wait too long to receive them. I think that she's just like that. Truth be told, I can't even remember how long they took to arrive (maybe a few weeks) and besides, I'd told her that there wasn't any rush (apparently that was my fault, smile).

To top it off, Melissa is Canadian and you all know how I heart Canadians. Save yourself the hassle of searching for the perfect gift and just check out Melissa's shop, Vintage Baby Revival. There's something for everyone and if you have a baby in your future, she has some one-of-a-kind items for your little nugget!

Support Canadian!

  Besos, The Zoo

It's Not My Fault. You Should Blame Lysol.

I did the unthinkable.

I posted not one but three pictures of the inside of my toilet.

It's not my fault.

Wait, don't hit that little "x" up in the top right corner yet. Hear me out. Your toilet might just thank you...

Now before you think what a wack job or I would never do that how brave I am. Let me assure you, bravery would have been taking a picture BEFORE I cleaned it.

We live out in Boonyville, Population: 12 (people that is, one of which is "The Sheriff"), 31 horses and 2,678,932 mosquitos (at last count). We take our water from a well so it's hard. Like really hard. Not sure if you've ever seen a toilet after four years of "torture by hard water" (and you won't see one from me, I'm not that crazy, truth be told, I forgot to take a picture, I would totally have posted a picture of that) but it's not pretty.

I'm sure you're thinking, why not just get a water softener and be done with it. First of all, then I wouldn't be able to blog about it, secondly, I love the taste of our water (I love the taste of most water, if you think that water doesn't taste different, well, that's a whole other post), thirdly, have you ever showered with soft water, might as well have a shower in slime and last but not least, it costs money and I'm frugal.

Over the years, we have tried everything. Well, we thought we'd tried everything. We'd even gone into Ottawa to purchase several products from specialty stores (at over $20 a flush). None of them worked. And not for lack of elbow grease. We pretty near sprained joints that I didn't know existed trying to get the bowl clean.

It was so bad that people would ask us "what's up with your toilet". In the back of their minds, I'm sure that they were dreading the response, I mean, what if I said it was well, you know.

That was until we found this.

It all started when Uncle Eric showed up and handed me this blue bottle and told me to try it. "It can't hurt to try" he says, "besides, it's on sale". Three days later (I'm sure you're thinking, four days, two weeks, who cares, besides, we wouldn't even know anyways, well, the timing matters), I managed to coordinate the application of said product before bedtime and in the morning, presto, half the stains were gone and I hadn't even torn a rotator cuff. The next night, I drained out some of the water and applied again. Almost gone. And the next night, you guessed it, it was as new as the day we bought it (I won't go and say "as clean as" or "clean enough to eat out" of because well, that's gross).

Don't listen to me, you be the judge.

Pretty clean huh! Can you see my reflection in the third picture? Gross Neat huh!

Note that although I live in Canada and therefore do not have to disclose when I've been paid and or sponsored for a post. I was not compensated for this post in anyway (unless those coupons that I cut out of the paper count). I think the fact that there's a sticker across the brands name (which I didn't place there), says it all but just in case. Not that I wouldn't be open to the idea...

Special Note. Since I was able to determine (within one week) that the product worked like a charm, I was able to take advantage of the weekly sale to stock up. But not before I received a "two-for-one" coupon in the mail the day before. Priceless.

I just wrote 3,861 words related to my toilet. Got a problem with that?

Blame Lysol!

  Besos, The Zoo