Everybody give a warm welcome to Julie Bonner, the new author for Play Library! Julie currently writes for b5media at Declutter It!, a blog in b5’s Home and Dining Channel. This was my favorite bit from her bio page: I am also a mother of three amazing children, a wife to a man who makes me laugh until my belly aches, and an admitted internet “don’t talk to me until I’ve had my coffee and computer time” junkie. This is a woman I to whom I can relate! I’m excited to see the new life and ideas that she brings to Play Library, and will stay a devoted reader. Welcome, Julie! Best wishes to you. photo credit: skyseeker [Read more]

Yeah, it’s that time now. September ends my 15 months with Play Library. When Hsien invited me to join her here last year, I didn’t have a clue as to how much I would learn. I’ve had a great time writing about all things kid related, and even more fun meeting new bloggers and readers. While I’d love to stick around longer, I’ve had to look at the limited time I have (I’m sure you all understand this out there!), and this was one thing that had to be let go. But I’ll always be thankful to Hsien for seeing something in me (I was such a new blogger back then!) that she wanted to partner with. I had a blast with you, Hsien. And I’m so appreciative to all of you who come here to read. Don’t... [Read more]

Have you been introduced to Jack and Annie and their Magic Tree House? The Magic Tree House series, written by Mary Pope Osborne, is one that my daughter was introduced to last year. The series follows Jack and Annie, siblings, who find themselves on a variety of adventures through different times and destinations, beginning and ending at the Magic Tree House. In addition to the series itself, there are Research Guides that include additional facts to the times, places, and situations that Jack and Annie have experienced. My daughter enjoys these as well, but the Twisters and Other Terrible Storms did have her a bit freaked out and watchful of storms for a few weeks! [Read more]

…might as well take a stop in the forest. Back in the days when Saturday morning meant cartoons, we couldn’t go a week without the Smurfs. That was my sister’s favorite cartoon, and so we watched it. Every week. I have to admit, though, that the intro song does bring a warm fuzzy. Enjoy. [Read more]

I used to love the Muppet Show. My mom used to say that watching it together was the only time that my brother and I got along! I remember that Animal was his favorite. Anyway, here’s a little clip for ya, because it feels like a Muppets kinda night. I do think this is the best rendition of this song that I’ve ever heard, and you can’t helped but be endeared to Animal by watching this! Enjoy. [Read more]