Giveaway: Sesame Street Live at Detroit's Fox Theatre

Sesame Street Live is celebrating 25 years of performances at the Fox Theatre in Detroit with a brand new show, "Make a New Friend." Grover has a new friend who is visiting from India, and, together with his friends on Sesame Street, shares cultural experiences with her and a whole lot of fun.

"Make a New Friend" will be playing from Friday, January 23 through Monday, February 16. Dates and times are as follows:

Friday, January 23: 7 p.m.
Saturday, January 24: 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 5:30 p.m.
Sunday, January 25: 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 5:30 p.m.
Wednesday, January 28: 11 a.m.
Thursday, January 29: 11 a.m.
Friday, January 30: 11 a.m., 7 p.m.
Saturday, January 31: 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 5:30 p.m.
Sunday, February 1: 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m.
Wednesday, February 4: 11 a.m.
Thursday, February 5: 11 a.m.
Friday, February 6: 11 a.m., 7 p.m.
Saturday, February 7: 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 5:30 p.m.
Sunday, February 8: 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 5:30 p.m.
Thursday, February 12: 11 a.m.
Friday, February 13: 11 a.m., 7 p.m.
Saturday, February 14: 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 5:30 p.m.
Sunday, February 15: 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 5:30 p.m.
Monday, February 16: 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m.

Perfect family-friendly entertainment, Sesame Street Live never fails to delight its young audience members. Expect to see lots of dancing, clapping, and singing along as the little ones recognize some of their favorite characters up on stage.

Ticket prices range from $8 (for schools & daycare centers)-$10 for select weekday matinees, to $65 for special Sunny Seats. Sunny Seats include premium seating and a pre-show meet and greet and photo opportunity with two Sesame Street Live friends, including Elmo. Please note the Sunny Seats are not available for the Kids Matinee Shows.

Purchase tickets at OlympiaEntertainment.com, in person at the Fox Theatre and Joe Louis box offices or at Hockeytown Authentics in Troy (with no service fees), all Ticketmaster locations or Ticketmaster.com. You can also charge by phone at (800) 745-3000. To receive a discount for groups of 10 or more, please call (313) 471-3099. For more information call (313) 471-6611.

To learn more about the show, go to www.sesamestreetlive.com, or "like" Sesame Street Live on Facebook.

My family has been to Sesame Street Live at the Fox numerous times, and each time has been a fun, memorable experience. Want to win tickets so you can take YOUR family to Sesame Street Live this year? MichiGal is giving away 4 ticket vouchers for Sesame Street Live at the Fox Theatre, in collaboration with Olympia Entertainment. Please note that vouchers must be exchanged for tickets at the box office ahead of time! You cannot get into the show with the vouchers! It is recommended that you go before the day of your desired performance to get your tickets.

Good luck!

Disclosure: MichiGal received ticket vouchers in exchange for promoting Sesame Street Live.

Sesame Street Live Detroit

ReZoopie Cookbook from The Detroit Zoo & Door to Door Organics + GIVEAWAY!

ReZoopie Eat Like an Animal Cookbook

Do you sometimes struggle to convince your kids that eating healthy is the best choice? I know I do, and I can use all the help I can get. Lecturing them about the benefits of eating all their veggies only goes so far. But my kids are huge animal lovers, so maybe they would like to "eat like an animal", specifically, like their favorite animals at the Detroit Zoo.

The Detroit Zoo has partnered with Door to Door Organics to create ReZoopie, a fun kid-friendly cookbook. ReZoopie features animals from the Detroit Zoo, and recipes made with ingredients from Door to Door Organics. The cookbook is designed to incorporate fresh fruits and veggies into your kids' diets - just like their favorite animals. It's full of cute illustrations and real photos of Detroit Zoo animals, as well as photographs of each recipe. The recipes are simple and appealing, like the Porcupine Pick-Ups, made with squash, broccoli and carrots - and they look delicious!

Here's the scoop:

• Visit Door to Door Organics and get $10 off your order using code DETROITZOO **new customers only**
• Get the ReZoopie cookbook for FREE  HERE. This is a pdf digital copy, which you can download onto your computer or print. (Have a Kindle? Once you download the book and have the file saved on your computer, send an email to your Kindle email address with the book's file as an attachment. Voila! Easy access on your e-reader).
• Enter to Win a fabulous prize package, using the form below!

What can you win? Both of these great prizes!

A $100 gift card for Door to Door Organics 

AND

4 tickets to Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo (happening on weekend evenings, 5:30-9 p.m., from now until December 31: Dec. 5-7, 11-14, 18-23, and 26-31)

Good luck! And be sure to tell everyone what you think of the recipes - leave a comment with your favorite recipe!

Disclaimer: MichiGal is receiving goods and/or services in exchange for this post.

Detroit Zoo Wild Nights + Door to Door Organics

Holiday Movie Giveaway: The Three Dogateers

Do your kids like to watch the same holiday movies over and over (and over and over and over) again? Maybe you'd like to add something new to the repertoire, like the Dove approved family-friendly flick, The Three Dogateers, available on DVD only at Walmart.

Three pampered pooches left to guard the house on Christmas Eve become fearless DOGATEERS when thieves break in and steal every present, every ornament - even the yuletide tree! Vowing to save Christmas, the three canines set out in search of Santa, the only one who can help them on their quest.

Sounds like a cute concept, and my kids are suckers for cuddly doggies. Check out the trailer.








Just use the Rafflecopter form below to enter to win your very own copy of The Three Dogateers!

Please note: Each household is only eligible to win one (1) The Three Dogateers DVD via blog reviews and giveaways. Only one entrant per mailing address per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you will not be eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

No P.O. boxes, U.S. only.


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Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo, Valvoline Instant Oil Change + GIVEAWAY

Looking for a fun holiday event in Metro Detroit? Wild Lights, presented by Bank of America, will be at the Detroit Zoo for 24 nights this November and December, featuring 5 million lights and over 100 different animal sculptures. Look at these photos...doesn't it look magical? Photos provided by the Detroit Zoo.

WHEN:

• November 22-23
• November 28-30
• December 5-7
• December 11-14
• December 18-23
• December 26-31

TIME: 5:30-9 p.m.

Besides the millions of LED lights that will blazing up the trees, buildings, and animal sculptures, guests can also delight in ice carvers and carolers, participate in a holiday craft, and write a letter to jolly old St. Nick. "The Polar Express 4-D Experience" will be playing at the 4-D theater in the Wild Adventure Zone.

AND...if you purchase your Wild Lights tickets ONLINE before November 21, you will be entered into a drawing for a Family Four Pack of tickets to Dinner with Santa at the Detroit Zoo!

AND...(one more thing before we get to the GIVEAWAY)...if you have a Detroit Zoo membership, be sure to get your vehicle in for a Valvoline Instant Oil Change by the end of the year at one of 14 Metro Detroit locations, and get a 15% discount. Use this coupon:

Now we get to the GIVEAWAY part...

Courtesy of Valvoline Instant Oil Change and the Detroit Zoo, MichiGal is giving one lucky reader a
prize package that includes a FREE OIL CHANGE and  4 TICKETS to WILD LIGHTS at the DETROIT ZOO!

Just the use the Rafflecopter form to enter!

Disclaimer: MichiGal is receiving services in exchange for this post.

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Orkin Mouse in a House Game + Giveaway

I am a huge animal lover and hate to see any furry creature suffer. However, my soft spot for animals ends when it comes to mice...indoors. No matter how cold it is outside, I will never feel bad enough for a shivering little mouse to welcome it into my house. In fact, I am pausing for a moment to thank the heavens that I have never encountered a rodent in my home.

                                               .......................................................

The temperatures are dropping, and this is the time of year the little pests make their move. But you don't have to share your nice, warm house - call Orkin at 1-800-800-ORKIN, or visit orkin.com.

Play the Mouse in a House game in the app above, and see if you would survive the winter months if you were a rodent. Then enter to win a Mouse in a House fleece blanket using the Rafflecopter form below.

**Disclosure** MichiGal is receiving a blanket to keep in addition to the one being awarded in the giveaway.

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Outback Give Back Night Fundraiser + Giveaway

Outback Steakhouses in the Detroit area are hosting a Give Back Night fundraiser to benefit the Detroit Zoological Society on Thursday, November 6. Just tell your server you're there for "Zoo Night" and 15% of your total check will be donated to the Detroit Zoo! Use the following link to find the Outback Steakhouse closest to you. Please note that restaurant hours vary by location, so make sure you confirm - some are open for lunch, others are not. The fundraiser will be going on from open until 10 p.m.

Outback Steakhouse Locations

Take a break from cooking next Thursday, and feel good doing it because you'll be supporting a wonderful organization.

Is all this talk about steak making you hungry? MichiGal is hosting a giveaway for a $20 Outback Steakhouse gift card to help satisfy your cravings! Enter via the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!

**Disclosure** MichiGal received a complimentary meal at Outback Steakhouse in exchange for promoting this event & giveaway. 

A blooming onion or a steak...or both??

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Win Halloween Tickets to Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad

Now that it's officially October, the leaves are falling, the air is getting crisp, and it's time to start thinking about Halloween! There are so many great Halloween activities to choose from in the Metro Detroit area and beyond, but for family-friendly fun you just can't beat Crossroads Village and Huckleberry Railroad in Flint.

If you want to read more about Halloween at Crossroads Village and Huckleberry Railroad, head over to Daily Leisure to see what it's all about.

Here's your chance to win a family 4 pack of tickets to Halloween at Crossroads Village and Huckleberry Railroad! Please note, the tickets are for Saturday, October 18 with a 5:00 p.m. train ride. The date and time cannot be changed, so please only enter if you are available.


 Crossroad Village

Book Review + Giveaway: Dark Hope by Monica McGurk - New YA Trilogy

I have a confession. I'm 39 years old and I love YA.

What's YA, you might be asking? YA stands for Young Adult, as in the book genre meant for young adults. They're typically fast moving, exciting, easy to read books, and feature teenagers as the main characters. Lots of stuff is vying for real estate in my mind these days, so uncomplicated reads work best for me. Many YA books are good, really good; can't put it down-stay up all night reading kind of good. Plus I am now the mother of a teenager myself, so it's beneficial to keep current on the intricate workings of the teenage brain.

The latest YA gem I've come across? Dark Hope, by Monica McGurk.

Book 1 of the Angel Prophecies

Dark Hope is the first book in McGurk's Archangel Prophecies Trilogy. Which is a good thing, because I definitely want more!

A brief synopsis:

Hope Carmichael was raised by her hyper-protective, uber-religious, survivalist father for most of her childhood. But no one could blame him for being so cautious, after Hope's enigmatic abduction as a young child. Now that she's a teenager, Hope has the opportunity to live a more normal life with her mother, and is suddenly given more freedom than she has ever had. Life just gets more and more curious for Hope as she makes a mysterious friend at her new high school and becomes personally invested in the crusade against human trafficking, which is rampant in her new hometown of Atlanta. She is about to embark on an epic adventure of a lifetime.

The name of the trilogy - Archangel Prophecies - gives you a clue that Dark Hope is celestial in nature and involves angels. Beyond that, I would rather you read for yourself to discover Hope's mystifying characteristics, friendships, and life experiences!

While Dark Hope really is fun to read, with all its magic and adventure, it is much more than the latest teenage supernatural fad. McGurk brings attention to an issue that often goes unnoticed and under-reported: human trafficking, specifically right here in the United States. Many people do not realize how prevalent modern slavery truly is. It is a terrifying issue that deserves much more attention in the media, and I'm glad to see it getting some in a book that is sure to become a huge success.

I would recommend this book, which melds together romance, mystery, supernatural topics, teenage angst, adventure, and current events, to:

• Anyone who loves YA
• Anyone looking for a new, quick paced series to start
• Fans of supernatural/mystical/angel novels
• Readers interested in modern day slavery
• Eclectic readers like myself, who love books of all kinds!

Once you finish Dark Hope, you won't be able to wait to read the next book in the series (which is already complete, publishing date TBA), so make sure to keep up with author Monica McGurk on social media:

• Twitter: @monicamcgurk
• Facebook
• Pinterest

I have no doubt that you would LOVE to get your hands on your own copy of Dark Hope! Just enter the Rafflecopter form below, and maybe it will be your lucky day!


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I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

Squirrel Cheeks Boutique Romper Giveaway

Pink and grey lace romper

One of the greatest things about having three daughters: the clothes. Little girl clothing just keeps getting cuter and cuter. On the flip side, my girls have very strong opinions about what they wear and I don't really get to pick out their clothes anymore. If you have a little one, take advantage! You might not believe me, but before you know it they will be insisting on personal fashion statements and throwing your carefully coordinated ideas out the window.

Boutique clothing is not something I've delved into much. I see other little girls dressed up in sweet little boutique outfits and always think it's too expensive. I'm sure some of it is, but I have found a place that has the most adorable, precious, items - at a REASONABLE price. I mean, very reasonable. Squirrel Cheeks Boutique is the place to visit if you are shopping for a little girl. Looking for a lace romper, or a satin romper? Unique dresses, tutus, outfits and accessories? Doll clothes? Click over and take a look around. I think you will be surprised.

Think the shipping prices will kill you? Think again. Orders from Squirrel Cheeks ship for just $2 plus 10% of your order, and orders over $200 ship for free.

Regular costumers will love that they can earn reward points from Squirrel Cheeks. Create an account and start earning, one point for every dollar spent. Reach 100 points and redeem them for a $5 gift certificate that can be used on anything on the site.

Are you a boutique wholesaler? Squirrel Cheeks is the place to buy wholesale rompers and other girly girl items. In fact, Squirrel Cheeks caters to wholesalers, offering free drop shipping and and automatic 20% discount on all orders - and NO minimum order.

For more info, follow Squirrel Cheeks on Twitter and Facebook.

Now, how about a giveaway? One lucky MichiGal reader will win one solid colored romper (color of choice) in Small (0-12 months), Medium (12-24 months), or Large (3T/4T). (Please note that larger sizes are available for purchase at Squirrel Cheeks, but this giveaway is only for S, M, or L). Just use the Rafflecopter form to enter!


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Book Review and Giveaway: Ripley's Believe It or Not! Reality Shock!

There is just something about Ripley's Believe It or Not! that captures the imagination. I remember watching the older television show, back in the '80's, and finding all the featured oddities fascinating. Several years ago, when we were in Niagara Falls, we went to a Ripley's museum, and even before that we visited the Ripley's aquarium in Gatlinburg. Both brought the unbelievable to life.

But I have to admit, there was always a little part of me that wondered if all the crazy stuff featured by Ripley's was truly real. (Not the fish - they were very much alive!). I didn't know the history of Ripley's Believe It or Not!

Recently I received a glossy, hardbound copy of the latest edition of the Ripley's Believe It or Not! bestselling series, Reality Shock. And I learned some interesting facts within the first few pages.

Robert Ripley, the founder of Ripley's Believe It or Not!, was a cartoonist at The New York Globe, a radio show host, and a renowned world traveler. He went places no one had ever even heard of way back in the early to mid-twentieth century. He went everywhere, looking for anything strange and unusual.

Then I read this paragraph:

Here at Ripley's we pride ourselves that everything in this book is definitely true - no picture is doctored, no story exaggerated, and nothing is ever invented.

Nothing is included without proof. That is pretty impressive, because if you've ever browsed through a Ripley's book, you know there is some pretty unbelievable stuff in them!

Reality Shock is chock full of colorful pictures of real people, real animals, real places, and real things that might seem like fiction, but they're not.

My kids and I have been enjoying looking through this book over and over, because every time we find something we missed before. It is a fun book to share as a family, although I will warn you that there are some images that might not be suitable for the squeamish. This is all relative of course, but you might want to go through it on your own before you show it to your kids, in case you come across anything that might upset them. Nothing is gory or violent - but some might be bothered, for example, by an image of a man who can pop his eye almost entirely out of its socket.

I have an exclusive offer for my readers! Follow this link to purchase Reality Shock! for just $14.99. This is a really nice hardcover book that would make a great addition to your family's book collection, and help make reading fun for your kids.
                                                       PURCHASE NOW

I am also offering one copy of Ripley's Believe It or Not! Reality Shock! to ONE lucky reader! Just use the Rafflecopter form to enter.

Disclaimer: MichiGal received a complimentary copy of Ripley's Believe It or Not! Reality Shock for review purposes. All opinions are those of MichiGal.


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Orkin Backyard Explorers Giveaway

My kids enjoy hunting for bugs in our yard. If you follow me on Facebook, you might have seen my recent update regarding carpenter ants. IN MY HOUSE. So hunting bugs outside is just fine, but when it comes to hunting bugs indoors, I think I'll leave that to the Orkin man.

Just for kicks, check out the "What's Your Spirit Bug?" quiz in the app below, then enter the giveaway for your chance to win an Orkin backyard explorers kit. To be used outdoors, I hope.









Want to win this? Look for the Rafflecopter form down below and enter to win! And just as an FYI:

Each household is only eligible to win 1 Orkin Backyard Explorers Kit via blog reviews and giveaways. Only one entrant per mailing address per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you will not be eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

*Disclaimer: MichiGal is being compensated for this post with a backyard explorers kit.



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Review and Giveaway: Mía Mariú Cosmetics

I received free products mentioned in this post. All opinions are my own.

Getting new make-up is so much fun! It's not something I splurge on often, but I love perusing make-up aisles and cosmetic departments, looking at all the colors and the new products. I love good make-up, that feels smooth and clean going on, and stays on without feeling unnatural and uncomfortable. Opening a new lipstick or compact is just so satisfying in a totally girly way!

Getting a box of Mía Mariú cosmetics in my mailbox recently might have made me squeal just a little. Ooooh! Pretty colors!

I got a Uniquely You Touch Up Kit (item CTU03), which is that cute little mirrored compact you see above. It closes magnetically, which  love, and has a cool picture on the front. According to the box, the kit "...contains everything you need to achieve attractive day or dazzling evening looks that are uniquely yours! Perfecting Finish Colors include Magic Satin Mineral Powder, Mineral Blush, & 3 Mineral Eye Shadows." I love have everything in one slim compact that I can easily slip into my purse or travel bag. The colors are universally appearing with a hint of sparkle (oooh sparkly!).

I also received three Hydrating Stick Glosses, in Beso (CLK03), Amore (CLK11), and Seducción (CLK06). The colors and glossy and classic. They go on smoothly. There's no grit...and if you've ever used a cheapo lipstick you know what I'm talking about it. Plus they smell good. I mean new lipstick usually does, but these have a faint vanilla scent. I love lipstick and I don't use it enough. Plus the labels say "Made in USA", if that sort of thing is important to you.

There were also a couple bonus items in my box-o-goodies, including a make-up brush, suitable for eye shadow (specifically called a Petite Detail Brush), and sample packets of RestauraCel-C Microdermabrasion Thermal Activator, RestauraCel-C Microdermabrasion Refinisher Cream, and Proteccion Hydrating Moisturizer SPF 30+. I'm looking forward to trying these, since I'm always on the lookout for ways to help my skin look more youthful and healthier.

Have you heard of Mía Mariú? It is a Dallas based company, selling high quality, make-up artist grade cosmetics and brushes, as well as natural skin care products, nutritional supplements, and fine fragrances. Their philosophy:

The Mia Mariu philosophy makes the connection between beauty and health in harmony.  Mia Mariu’s high performance products are formulated with the most natural ingredients available helping you achieve vibrant beauty and health inside and out.  Each unique product fuses nature and technology by combining the highest quality botanicals, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and peptides.  The result is healthy products that provide a perfect balance that reflects itself through youthful, healthy, beautiful, glowing skin and renewed energy and vitality, at an exceptional value. 

Now for the fun part...Mía Mariú is offering one MichiGal reader a Colors For Your Every Mood set, just like mine! A $109 value! And the winner will have her choice of three colors for the Hydrating Stick Glosses! Open to residents of the US and Canada. Just use the Rafflecopter form to enter! Good luck!


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ENDED Giveaway: Kenny Chesney at Ford Field

Listen up, country music fans of Metro Detroit, Kenny Chesney is coming to Ford Field on Saturday, August 17 with his No Shoes Nation tour!

Eric Church, Eli Young Band, and Kacey Musgraves will also be performing along with Mr. Chesney.

I know there are a lot of fans out there, and you'd love to get your hands on some tickets, right? They start at just $35.50 each, and can be purchased at any Ticketmaster location, online at ticketmaster.com, or by phone at 800-745-3000.

Or...MichiGal is giving away TWO TICKETS, valued at $118.15 EACH, to one lucky reader! 

Yep, that's right...but the concert is coming up pretty quick, so this is going to be a fast turnaround giveaway!

Just use the Rafflecopter form to enter! Please note this giveaway is for tickets to see Kenny Chesney in DETROIT on Saturday, August 17. Please ONLY ENTER if you are able to make it to the concert at that place, date and time! Good luck!


This is a sponsored post, BUT I'm giving away my incentive! Yes, these Kenny Chesney tickets should have been MINE, but I am unavailable for the concert so I'm offering them to YOU!

Want more chances to win tickets? After you enter MichiGal's giveaway, head over to visit some of my Detroit area blogging friends who are also giving away their tickets!

Mom Among Chaos
MI Savings Mama

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ENDED Giveaway: Little Tikes Backyard BBQ - Get Out and Grill

This is a sponsored post. I received the toy featured in this post in exchange for my honest review.

I love watching my kids use their imaginations! One common theme in their pretend play is FOOD! Whether it's playing restaurant, tea party, or any other variation they can think of, my kids have a fascination with playing with food. Now they can add a whole new element to their pretend play scenarios with their new Little Tikes Backyard BBQ Get Out and Grill toy! How much fun to have a toy BBQ grill set to add to their collection of food related toys!

This set is so much fun! It's small enough that it doesn't get in the way in the house, and it's portable. So I can easily carry it from room to room, or even outside to give their "grilling" a more authentic feel! My mom and I put it together in about 30 minutes or so. It wasn't too complicated at all, we just followed the directions and it was all together in no time. We found that we didn't even need a mallet, as the directions indicate.

The details are what really makes the Little Tikes Get Out and Grill set SO cool! The hot dog and hamburger both come out of their buns, there is a little sink, side burners, buttons to push and twist, and even storage. Included with the set:

• Burger with bun
• Hot dog with bun
• Ketchup bottle
• Tongs
• Spatula

Looking for a toy to spark your child's imagination, something a little different from the traditional play kitchen? The Get Out and Grill set is perfect! Lucy and Mathilda have been having a blast with it!

Want to win one for your kid? You are in LUCK because MichiGal is giving away a Little Tikes Backyard BBQ Get Out and Grill toy to one lucky reader!

Just use the Rafflecopter form to enter...easy peasy!

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ENDED Giveaway: If You Give A Mouse A Cookie at Detroit's City Theatre

I've made it no secret that I am a huge theater fan, and my kids have been subjected to this love of mine from a young age. They've seen all kinds of plays, musicals and non, but children's plays are almost always a good safe bet for an hour or two of captivating entertainment. A play based on a familiar book is even better.

Adapted from the best selling children's book of the same name, by Laura Joffe Numeroff, If You Give A Mouse A Cookie is hitting the stage at Detroit's City Theatre this month, on August 23, 24, and 25.

This book is one in a series, including other classics If You Take A Mouse to School and If You Give A Pig A Pancake (both also adapted for the stage). They are humorous accounts of a long trail of events that result from doing the one thing stated in the title.


Tickets for If You Give A Mouse A Cookie are available now, selling for $18 each or $60 for a family four pack. To purchase tickets:

• Online at OlympiaEntertainment.com
• At the Fox Theatre and Joe Louis Arena box offices, as well as Hockeytown Authentics in Troy - without service fees
• At all Ticketmaster locations and Ticketmaster.com
• Charge by phone: (800) 745-3000
• For group discounts (party of 10 or more), call (313) 471-3099

The performance schedule is as follows:

• Friday, August 23: 11:00 a.m., 3:00 p.m., 6:30 p.m.
• Saturday, August 24: 11:00 a.m., 3:00 p.m.
• Sunday, August 25: 2:00 p.m.

In collaboration with Olympia Entertainment, MichiGal is giving away 4 tickets to the Saturday, August 24, 11 a.m. performance of If You Give A Mouse A Cookie at Detroit's City Theatre!

City Theatre, an intimate 430-seat venue, is located inside Hockeytown Cafe, right next to the Fox Theatre on Woodward Ave.

Want to win? Use the Rafflecopter form below! Hope to see you there!

I have been provided with complimentary tickets for my family. Please note that this giveaway is local to Detroit, Michigan. Please only enter if you are able to attend this performance at the City Theatre in Detroit! The date and time of the tickets cannot be changed. Winner's tickets will be available at will-call on the day of the performance.



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ENDED What Makes Me Smile: A Floss and Brush #FABsmile Giveaway

As part of the Mom It Forward Blogger Network, I am helping to promote FlossAndBrush.com. I have been compensated with product in exchange for this post. As always, all opinions are my own.

I have a lot of reasons to smile. In particular, I have four little rays of sunshine who light up my life on a daily basis. Corny, but so true. They add fun and meaning to my life, and I'm so blessed to be their mother. They make me smile every single day.

My "babies" and me

To maintain a healthy smile, good oral hygiene habits are absolutely crucial. And that's where FlossAndBrush.com comes in. We all know we're supposed to change our toothbrushes regularly and floss every day, but how often have you run out of floss and gotten out of your daily flossing habit because you keep forgetting to pick up another pack of floss when you're shopping? And how are  you keeping track of when to switch toothbrushes? Maybe you switch every time you see your dentist for a cleaning, but even if that happens twice a year it's not enough. That's right - did you know that the American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three months?

If you want to make this one aspect of your life a whole lot easier, FlossAndBrush.com has the solution. For just $1.00 per month/per family member, FlossAndBrush.com will send you an automatic shipment every three months with new toothbrushes for your family and a three month supply of dental floss. Easy peasy! For only $1.00 more ($2.00 per month), adults can upgrade to the Brush and Whitening Gel package. The whitening gel is meant to be used with custom trays, which are NOT included in the package, but are available for purchase at FlossAndBrush.com (with a 25% MichiGal reader discount code in the works as well).

The toothbrushes are age specific and quality (I received GUM toothbrushes, but I'm not sure whether they always ship the same brand); and the floss is mint, waxed, and shred resistant (60 yards per pack), made by Butler. Just a note, we haven't tried our new toothbrushes yet, but I have tried the floss. I have an abnormally small mouth, and because my teeth are packed in it so tightly, I can only use certain types of floss. I did try this one, and while snug, it didn't get stuck between my teeth like some others have. I have not tried the whitening gel because I don't have trays, but maybe I'll order some from the FlossAndBrush.com website.

Shipping is just $1.00 per person, but if you order three or more, shipping is free.

This is such a great idea, and I love that it's so affordable! On the one hand, it's kind of nice that it's simple and there aren't a lot of choices to complicate things, but...it might be kind of nice to be able to choose the type of toothbrush you'd like, and a dental tape option would be great too (the tape works much better than floss in my tiny mouth). Of course adding choices would probably also increase the cost, but regardless, I think this is a very useful service.

Connect with FlossAndBrush.com via social media!

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Pinterest
• Twitter - @FlossandBrush
• Vine - FlossAndBrush

Want to try it out? Thanks to FlossAndBrush.com, I'm giving away this fabulous prize package:

• 1 Free annual FAB membership (every 3 months, a new toothbrush and a 3 month supply of floss will be delivered to your door step.
• 1 Free annual FAB + White4Life membership (this includes professional grade whitening gel to be used in custom whitening trays [NOT INCLUDED] in addition to a toothbrush and floss every 3 months)

Use the Rafflecopter form to enter ~ Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

ENDED Giveaway: IncrediBundles - The Ultimate Baby Gift Giveaway

 

For a really special and unique baby shower or new baby gift, think outside the gift registry. Sure, everyone needs the essentials when preparing for a new little one, but it's nice to give something more memorable as well. That's what I like about Incredibundles: they combine useful with fun and out of the ordinary. This is bringing one stop shopping to a new level! If you are like me and prefer to give a little variety of gifts rather than one big thing, this is the perfect shopping website for you. The items are already grouped together, just choose your bundle and you're done!

ENDED Book Review and Giveaway: Emma's Secret By Steena Holmes

Last summer, I published a review of Finding Emma, by Steena Holmes. You can read my review by clicking HERE. Emma's Secret is the sequel to Finding Emma.

Imagine your worst nightmare. If you are a parent, I can almost guarantee that it involves something bad happening to your child(ren). When Megan and Peter were faced with the kidnapping of their youngest daughter, Emma, they found themselves confronted with one of their deepest fears. You can read about that story in Finding Emma. In Emma's Secret, we find out what happens in the next chapter of their lives.

With their daughter home safely, Megan and Peter are ready for their family to be back to normal. But soon it becomes painfully apparent that they can't simply pretend the previous two years they spent looking for Emma never happened. Megan can't relax and Peter is spending more and more time at the office. Their older daughters are struggling to adjust as well. To complicate matters, Emma holds a secret that is guaranteed to rock her family to the core.

Once again, Holmes does a great job of bringing the reader into the lives of this family whose world has been severely knocked off course. And of course it's always a pleasure to read more about characters you've become attached to during the course of a book. Emma's Secret neatly ties up loose ends and resolves questions that went unanswered at the end of Finding Emma. It is a quick and easy read, perfect for lazy summer lounging!

If you would like to read Emma's Secret for yourself, as of today it's going for only $4.99 on Amazon for the Kindle edition! AND...good news! I am giving away an extra copy! Just use the Rafflecopter form below to enter. U.S. only please.

I was provided with two complimentary copies of Emma's Secret, one to keep and one to giveaway. All opinions are my own.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway: Dark Dawn and Amazon Gift Card

I am excited to help support local authors Nicole Andrews Moore and Melissa Brodsky with the release of their new book, Dark Dawn! My review will be coming up Saturday, but in the meantime...enter to win some fab prizes!

Want to get reading right away? Here are the links to purchase Dark Dawn:

(Tamer Version) http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Dawn-Redemption-ebook/dp/B00DDF7FG6

(Adult Version) http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Dawn-Redemption-ebook/dp/B00DDF7UB6

Be sure to come back this Saturday to read my review!

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Metro Detroit Mommy 5000 Fan Celebration & Birthday Bash!

First I would like to thank the bloggers who are helping to promote this awesome giveaway: 

Mom Among Chaos
http://momamongchaos.blogspot.com

A Busy Mom's Slow Cooker Adventures
http://www.slowcookeradventures.com

Mind on Movies
http://www.mindonmovies.com/

MichiGal
http://michigalmom.com/

Yes/No Films
http://www.yesnofilms.com

Daily Leisure
http://www.dailyleisure.com

Baby Bear
http://www.babybearhugs.com

3 Months Free Mom Sponsor on online Magazine
for Michigan Mommy business owners
Michigan Home Mommy Works

And here are the wonderful prizes: 

$50 cash prize from
Metro Detroit Mommy

Life on Paper Photography by Bri Mason
http://www.lifeonpaperphoto.com/
http://www.facebook.com/LifeOnPaperPhoto
On-Location Family Photography Session
(two adults with kids)
within 25 miles of Canton.
($175)Brithday Bash/5K Fan Prize:

4 headbands from 
Lilly Bee's Shop

http://www.mythirtyone.com/dmanjo/
http://www.facebook.com/groups/592003664161269/
A 31 Keep-It-Caddy and $5.00 gift card ($27.00)

Robin Slawnyk Photography
http://www.robinslawnyk.com/
http://www.facebook.com/robinslawnykphoto
Free Mini Session ($100)

MDM Bowtique
(2) $20 Gift Certificates

$25 Gift Certificate to
James & Olive

Momcat's Signing Academy
http://www.momcats-signing-academy.com/
http://www.facebook.com/momcats.signing.academy
Baby Signing Time Vol. 1 Bundle ($39.95)

Twinkle Fairy Bowtique
4 hair bows and a hanging bow holder ($27)

Sugar Baby Boutique 
Mommy & Me Apron Set $29

Sew Mary Beth
http://sewmarybeth.com/
$25 Gift Certificate

B Posh Events
http://bposheventplanning.com/
Dora Character for 25 minutes

Over the Rainbow Children Clothing & Accessories
$30 gift certificate
Photography by Life on Paper

Baby Boot Camp Farmington Hills
4 class session (Value $45)
http://www.babybootcamp.com/mi-farmingtonhills.aspx

Sadie's Room
Hair Bow Board and a pair of Hair Flowers
http://www.etsy.com/shop/sadiesroom

Kindermusik at Evola Music of Canton
Kindermusik Gift Basket

Tiny Town Play Lounge
1 month Play Pass
http://www.tinytownplaylounge.com/

Playaway
$25 gift certificate
http://playawayonline.com/

Aries Music
http://www.ariesmusicstudio.com/
http://facebook.com/ariesmusicstudio
3 Kidermusik gift baskets
(Free class, instrument, music download card, more!)
($25 each)

AirTime Trampoline & Game Park
$25 gift certificate
http://www.airtimetrampoline.com/

Alison Elle Edible Art
Elle Edible Art is a cottage food business in Lake Orion, MI.
One dozen custom decorated sugar cookies up to $35 value.
Redeem by ordering through Alison Elle Edible Art
(https://www.facebook.com/AlisonElleEdibleArt).
Please allow minimum 2 week notice.
Available for pick-up or local delivery only.
Offer good through December 2013.

An in home organic tan
Bask - Mobile Organic Spray Tans

Boogie Babies
One day play pass (4 winners)

Chelsie Maurer Photography
One free photo session (Expires Sept 30, 2013)

Dolly Madelynn's
BEAUTIFUL 18 Inch Wedding Gown,
Veil and Bouquette Doll Outfit that will fit American Girl
and similar 18 inch dolls (30.00 Retail)

Cindy's Cookies
http://cindyscookies.storenvy.com/
2 sets of 2 dozen lactation cookies, local orders only ($30)

Slick Sugar
http://www.slicksugar.com/
Belly Banter Stickers (3 winners)
Photo by: Brooke King Photography

Kindermusik of Clinton Township and Macomb Township
Kindermusik Storybook, CD, tambourine, and a free class.

Perfect Nanny Match
3 Hours Free Babysitting **
http://PerfectNannyMatch.com/
After the first 3 hours of babysitting, family must agree to pay babysitter $12/hr. Family may not use this babysitter again, without going through Perfect Nanny Match's procedures.

One hand-stamped, personalized necklace - winner's choice up to $40 value
Little Painted Polka Dots

Jennifer McArthur Photography LLC
2 gift certificates for $50 each off a regular priced session
http://www.jennifermcarthurphotography.com/

It Works, Wrap it up Amie 
It Works!
http://amiekelp.myitworks.com/
FREE wrap ($30)

Little Lady
www.shoplittlelady.com
http://www.shoplittlelady.com/
Flamingo Tutu Dress & Leggings Set
and matching Headband ($49)

Cousins Clothing
Belly Banter Promo Donor

Restyle Child
$20 gift certificate and one bottle of Piggy Paint
http://www.restylechild.com/

pArt of Life Photography
http://www.partoflifephotography.com/
mini session, with 8x10 and 4x5 accordion album ($175)

It Works! Independent Distruibutor
Tracy Got Wraps (It Works!)
https://tracygotwraps.myitworks.com/Home
One Ultimate Body Applicator (Body Wrap) ($35)

Wildtree Cooking with Tammy
http://www.mywildtree.com/tammyw/
$25 in Wildtree Goodies

1 Yoga class and 2 drop in play passes
Nature's Playhouse

Music with Ms. Carissa Knoles
http://www.mscarissarocks.com/
Free Pass to a class of your choice (three winners) $10 value each
Locations all over the Metro Detroit Area

A Slow Cooker Cook Book from:
A Busy Mom's Slow Cooker Adventures

http://akissmeansiloveyou.com/
two signed copies of "A Kiss Means I Love You" ($32)

Please Read These RULES

• many of the prizes are for local winners, so therefore I will be emailing the winners asking for their top prize choices.  You do not need to be local to Metro Detroit to win.
• winners will be emailed in batches asking for their top prize picks.  You will have 48 hours to respond to the email or your prize will be forfeited.  
• winners can and probably will win more than one prize.
• YOU MUST complete ALL of the mandatory entries to be entered.  If you only do some you are not qualified to win any prizes. The Giveaway Tools app won't even select you as a winner!  
• If you have one invalid entry, you risk losing all of your entries.  They will be verified to the best of my ability, so be honest!  
• Yes, there are over 40 mandatory entries, each participant has donated time, money or a prize to be a part of this giveaway.  Please show support by liking each of the pages.  If you don't want to like all the pages, don't enter!  
• have fun and good luck!

5k Birthday Bash

Options

Ends: 7/8/2013 11:59 PM EST

Entries: 1021

Email:
Name:

Open to residents of the U.S. 18+

Enter your information and click begin!