At the Fence

Florida : MOSI Museum of Science and Industry

2012-02-24T07:26:00.000-06:00

Hello Neighbors!

How is everyone today? It has been really hot here in Florida lately. On one of the cooler days we had, we visited the Museum Of Science and Industry (we will call it MOSI here At the Fence) in Tampa, Florida. The whole theme of MOSI is to learn by doing/playing. A very neat hands-on experience! I wish some of you could have gone with us! It is so much fun to have friends along!

It "is the largest science center in the southeastern United States and home of the only IMAX® Dome Theatre in the state of Florida. Guests are encouraged to "learn by doing" in this scientific playground of special exhibitions and more than 450 hands-on activities."

"About MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry)
MOSI is a not-for-profit, community-based institution and educational resource dedicated to advancing public interest, knowledge, and understanding of science, industry, and technology. With a total size of over 400,000 square feet, MOSI is the largest science center in the southeastern United States, and home to the only IMAX® Dome Theatre in the state of Florida. Kids In Charge! The Children’s Science Center at MOSI is the largest children’s science center in the nation. Disasterville, featuring WeatherQuest, combines education and 10,000 square feet of interactive exhibits on the science behind natural disasters. MOSI’s newest permanent exhibition, The Amazing You, explores the fascinating world of birth through end of life. Conquer your fears and experience an adrenaline rush like no other on MOSI’s newest permanent attraction, the Sky Trail® Ropes Course, featuring 36 elements on a 12 – 36 foot high, multilevel structure. MOSI is the proud winner of the 2009 National Medal for Museums by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the nation’s highest honor for museums. For more information on MOSI, visit www.mosi.org."

When you first walk in the door there is the ticket office where you buy tickets, and you are met by two HUGE diplodocus dinosaur skeletons. MOSI is one of the few museums in the world to "display the largest articulated dinosaurs ever discovered."

On the second floor you enter... DISASTERVILLE!! Disasterville covers nine types of disasters in a fun way! These disasters include : floods, hail storms, hurricanes, tsunamis, lightning, tornadoes, wildfires, earthquakes and volcanoes. They also tell you how to be prepared should you ever experience one of these disasters.

After that you head into the Bay News 9 WeatherQuest room. In here it shows you how much work is put into reporting, forecasting, and more. You can step into the roles of reporter, anchor, emergency manager, producer, or a scientist all inside a newsroom designed as Bay 9 News Studio.Below you can see my dad and sister as news reporters!

Once you hit the third floor you go through The Amazing You! section. Guests can explore whats amazing about each stage of life, teaches you how to stay healthy, and more! M's favorite spot in this area was the Your Face...Aged! You sit down in front of the camera and push the button to take a picture. Then you wait for it to load and then you can slowly click through what your face would look like at different ages. So keen!

Meet your future self!

Learning about sleep!

They also had one area that had jokes, funny pictures, and more!

Everyone enjoyed the section that had jokes and funny pictures. They state that laughter is good for your health! Imagine that. Mom had to listen to all the jokes afterwards!

Next up is the High-Wire Bicycle! You are harnessed unto the Bicycle and then you ride out across a 98-foot-long cable suspended 30 feet above the ground! Can you believe it? My little sister M. finally (after being assured she could not fall) decided she wanted to try it. I have included a short video of her doing it. After she got off she kept talking about how fun it was!

After the High-Wire Bicycle you can go to the Sky Trail Ropes Course. Let me tell you - This is AMAZING! I have included a short video of my two brothers and my little sister doing this. They really enjoyed it! This is a huge area where you are attached by a safety belt and can climb and explore all over!

Can you tell she liked it!?!

Another thing you don't want to miss (especially my little sister!) is the Kids In Charge! area. Kids In Charge! is The Children's Science Center at MOSI that is designed for children ages 12 and under. I think you do need to be told that everybody in my family enjoyed this area. Not just my little sister! There are several different areas in here. The first thing we did was the Magnetic Pendulum. You take these little magnets and slowly pull them your way (after they are attached) but be careful! If you pull to hard they will come off! After doing it for just a couple of minutes we got it going really good. M. was amazed! Next was the Wheelchair Racing. There is a section where there is a wheelchair and a timer and you have to time how long it takes you to go to the end, turn around, and come back. Then we headed to the Tug Of War. Because of the way it was hooked up one side had more leverage and almost always won. It took three family members (all older than 15) to beat just me on the side that had more leverage. So fun! Next up was the Weave A Web! To do this you put your wrist through a piece of rope that is clipped unto one of the many tangled pieces of rope inside that area. Then you have to go from one side to the other, connected to the same rope, never taking your hand out, and trying not to get all tangled! Sound like fun? M really enjoyed this one too!

Another area in the Kids In Charge! that she really liked was the Obstacle Course. For one token (you can purchase these for 2 for $1.) she could go through it five times! Here is a short video of her doing the Obstacle Course.

Don't forget the MOSI Cafe! All of us except my Dad decided to go for Pizza. Some had Pepperoni and the others had Cheese. My Dad chose a Cheeseburger. It was big! We shared a couple of drinks and had a great lunch.

Getting ready to dig in to her Cheese Pizza!

MOSI has agreed to send one of my Neighbors a Family Four Pack of General Admission Tickets to Tampa FL. ONLY! Wow!

NOTICE : YOU MUST BE ABLE TO VISIT THE MOSI IN TAMPA, FL!

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MyPurMist

2012-02-22T09:41:00.001-06:00

Hey Neighbors!

It’s cold and allergy season again! And for 119 million US households that are affected that means runny noses, congestion and sinus problems.

While many people find relief using over-the-counter and prescription drugs, they might not realize that something as simple as natural steam can have a profound effect on their respiratory symptoms. We’ve all heard the “old wives’ tales”…hold your baby in the bathroom with the hot shower running if they’re congested; use a humidifier to alleviate cold and sinus issues…but it’s actually proven science! The warm mist opens sinuses by thinning secretions as it hydrates and soothes irritated tissues. No drugs are needed, making it an all-natural and safe decongestant.

But while even doctors agree that steam inhalation is effective in treating some of the most common respiratory conditions, using steam and steam devices like humidifiers can be impractical (who can really stand in a hot steam shower 4x/day?), germ-prone, and sometimes pose a burn risk, particularly for children.

Now, using FDA approved technology, the NEW MyPurMist™ handheld steam inhaler is reinventing this old remedy in a completely new way -- the world’s first instant, effective, safe and handheld approach to steam and humidification therapy. MyPurMist makes using steam practical and easy for those seeking a natural remedy for their cold and allergy symptoms.

MyPurMist provides instant relief for cold, allergy, and sinus symptoms via a simple handheld device that requires virtually no preparation, mess, cleanup or maintenance. It delivers instant temperature controlled steam in a germ-free environment, with no risk of scalding like other devices. That means it’s good for kids, too!

Better still, 100% of people who have purchased and used MyPurMist will recommend it to others.

Visit here for more information: http://www.mypurmist.com/

Here is a coupon for $20 off :

Benefits of steam

Source: Hydrotherapy-Simple Treatments for Common Ailments by Clarence Dail, M.D./Charles Thomas, Ph. D.

Steam inhalation is an effective treatment in respiratory conditions and is highly recommended for treatment of the common cold, sinusitis, bronchitis, allergies and asthma. Steam relieves inflammation and congestion of upper respiratory mucous membranes.

• Steam relieves throat irritation by moistening the air.

• Steam relieves spasmodic breathing (Asthma, Croup).

• Steam loosens secretions and stimulates discharge of mucous from the throat and lungs (natural expectorant).

• Steam relaxes muscles and relieves coughing.

• Steam Keep mucous membranes from excessive drying.

Creating gift baskets for special occasions in life

2012-02-22T08:37:00.000-06:00

There are a multitude of occasions that would call for the giving of gifts. Along with this, there are also a lot of different things that those who want to give gifts can chose from. One of the most popular kinds of gifts that are available to purchase, no matter what the occasion, are gift baskets. These kinds of gifts can be used for birthday celebrations Christmas as well as the traditional gift baskets that are given at Easter. These are usually given to children however depending on your specific occasion it can be for a host of other occasions as well.

What you choose to fill your gift baskets with not only depends on the kind of budget that you have but it also depends on the person that you are purchasing the gift for as well. The things that they like and appreciate may surprise you and because of this most people try to select items that are going to be the best match for the person that they are intended for. This is not always the easiest goal to accomplish but it is something that is important especially for the people that you are going to be giving the gifts to.

Easter gift baskets in particular are something that is very popular to give during the spring season. Often times it is something that is colorfully decorated and are filled with different things such as candy or other things like small toys or books that are also very popular as well for these kinds of gift baskets as well. Easter gift baskets do not have to be just for the children that are in your life but you can also arrange them for the adults that are in your life as well.

You can create these kinds of gifts all on your own by going to a hobby store or to another kind of retailer which allows you to purchase each item separately. There are also those retailers who have put together these gift baskets for their customers so that they can save themselves the time and the frustration of having to go to multiple different locations in order to put together a gift basket for someone whether it is for Easter Christmas or for someone?s birthday.

In order to create these kinds of gift baskets all you need are baskets and things to fill them. These can be items that are conducive to the personality of the person or they can be generalized to the things that most people will like such as gift cards or spa products which can be given to a multitude of people regardless of the interests that they may have. These kinds of gifts are always appreciated because they show that you care about the people that they are meant for. It is also a way to showing someone that you put a lot of time and effort into thinking about them as well.

Embrace Sleep Collar Travel Pillow

2012-02-21T07:00:00.000-06:00

Hi Neighbors!

Greetings from beautiful, sunny, HOT, Florida! If you have been following our travels, you know that we have been in Ocala, Sarasota, Tampa, Orlando, and we will be spending 4 more days at Wekiwa Springs State Park in Orlando.

I have another super neat travel product to share with you. It is called the Embrace Sleep Collar, Travel Pillow. With all 8 of us traveling together, there is almost always someone dozing off on the trip. Now, my children think it is hysterical to watch the one dozing off, as their head bounces and they jerk awake. The Embrace Sleep Collar helps to prevent that. Not only does it stop the head from bobbing around, but it keeps your head and neck in alignment, so you don't wake up with a sore neck, or a headache. If I sleep funny, I almost always wake up with a headache.

The Embrace Sleep Collar has Memory Foam, which makes it so comfortable. It has a wicking fabric cover, made from the same material as expensive running shirts, that is machine washable. The Sleep Collar is very lightweight, weighing less than 3 oz. The Sleep Collar is available in 5 different colors. It does not keep you from moving your head, it just supports you.

Directly from Embrace Sleep Collar:
"Among those consulted in the design of the Embrace Sleep Collar include,chiropractors, flight attendants, physical therapists, and even afashion designer. You can spot each of their influences that we incorporated into the design.

The first concept is "passive resistance" vs."active resistance". The Sleep Collar is not designed to immobilize the wearer. The active resistance of a neck brace or any brace will create stiffness and even soreness in joints and muscles after prolonged use. The passiveresistance of the Sleep Collar, allows natural movement, but gives thatextra support needed, when trying to relax.

The second concept is Posture=Comfort.

All day long, your postural muscles in your neck are in contraction,to support your head. When you try to relax, your postural muscles wantto relax with you. This is fine when you are lying down, because yourbed supports you. However, when you are sitting up, like in an airlinechair, your head is left unsupported. The Embrace Sleep Collar isdesigned to keep your head and neck in proper alignment, allowing you to relaxand helping to prevent soreness.

There are a number of unique design features in the Sleep Collar, including:

Two types of foam (memory foam and high resiliency foam) to provide comfort and support.
Internal flex-band to provide even pressure and additional support.
Open back design to wear cool.
Wiking fabric material (identical to modern running shirts) to wear cool.
Mylar carry case with velcro strap to attach to outside of carry-on luggage.
Weighs less than 2 oz - less than a baseball cap."

Be sure to watch their short video below:

My husband is sold on the Embrace Sleep Collar. We both feel that it is quite comfortable. At first I thought it might feel restrictive, but it really does not. It gives you the support you need, without making you uncomfortable. This is perfect for long drives, plane trips, anywhere you might end up sleeping in an upright position. Gone is the nodding off only to jerk awake as your head falls forward. Also, since the collar goes around your neck, you aren't constantly adjusting the location of the pillow. It stays right there. And, if you have tried any of the blow up pillows only to have them spring a leak in the middle of your trip, you won't encounter that problem with the Embrace Sleep Collar.

You can purchase an Embrace Sleep Collar on their website for $24.99 with free shipping. You can also enter here to try and win an Embrace Sleep Collar.

Disclosure:I received no monetary compensation for this post. I did receive an Embrace Sleep Collar for review purposes. All exact quotes are taken from the Sleep Collar email or website. All thoughts and opinions are entirely mine.

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Teton Sports Escape 4300 Backpack Update!

2012-02-20T10:59:00.001-06:00

Hi neighbors!

Remember the Teton Sports Escape 4300 Backpack? Well, take a look at these pictures! My son was the one who is supposed to use it, but my 11 year old wanted to try it on! With a sleeping bag in the bottom and supplies and clothing on top, you can really pack this backpack. There are also some smaller pockets for little items. We were camping at Wekiwa Springs State Park Near Orlando Florida.

A thorough description:
The Escape4300 is a large pack designed for week-long trips or times when you have lots of gear. Aluminum stays and high-density foam back panel keep support right where you need it. Includes padded waist and shoulder straps, multiple load adjustments, and torso lengthener that can be fit to your body without removing pack. This hydration-ready pack fits a 2.5-liter bladder (not included), has a 4,300 cubic inch capacity with seven pockets, two pouches, four compression straps, daisy chain gear loops, D-ring, eyelets, and slide-storage under hood.

Contoured harness design with more precise chest adjustment means pack rides more smoothly when you move
10-liter internal sleeping bag compartment and external sleeping bag straps give you more choices for stowing gear
Top and bottom access to main compartment for convenience. Built in rainfly included with each pack.
Unzip false floor to connect sleeping bag and main compartments for larger cargo space
Padded double wishbone waist wings with independent top and bottom hip adjustments offer a more customizable fit

She wanted to wear it so bad!

See the big smile!


This pack comes with the special rain fly that covers the whole outside of the pack.

Here it is without the rain cover.

A side view.

The opposite side.

Here you can see all the straps that you can tighten or loosen as needed.

He really loaded it!

Now here is another entry for the Teton Sports Escape 4300 Lightweight Backpack. We will have at least one more before it ends. Leave a blog post comment on the original post using Rafflecopter, telling me where we were for these pictures. Here is the link to the original post: Teton Sports Escape 4300.

And remember by clicking on the link below you can purchase this product through Amazon.

TETON Sports Escape4300 Ultralight Internal Frame Backpack (Light Green, 33-Inch x 17-Inch x 12-Inch)

Mold in the Bathroom! Yuck! Enter the Tilex "Cancel the Mold Show in Your Bathroom Sweepstakes

2012-02-20T08:39:00.000-06:00

Hello Neighbors!

Do you ever have mold and mildew show up in your bathroom? We do! We own an older home, and for some reason the mold seems to grow here faster than I have ever seen before. We really have to watch the caulked areas around the tub and shower. I think since the house has obviously "settled some", the tub is on a slight slant, so water seems to pool in some areas on the sides, encouraging mold growth. I am constantly looking for new or different ways to stop mold growing here.

I have used vinegar to try and keep it under control, but it just never seems to keep it under control. One time I used bleach with a spray bottle and I would apply it, let it sit for several minutes and then use a toothbrush to scrub it out. It took several times of repeating this process. And of course you need to have a well ventilated room to do this. Unfortunately our bathroom has no windows, a perfect setup for mildew growth, so I have to set up a fan to blow fumes out the door and out the bedroom windows when we clean. We usually soak the shower curtain in a tub filled with water and bleach and allow it to soak. Then we rinse thoroughly and re-hang to dry. We have to do this about twice a month to keep the mildew under control. The boy's bathroom is set up the same way, with no windows, so we have the same problems there. At least they only have a shower to wipe down! We are actually considering re-doing all the caulking to see if this will help. Any neighbor who has a suggestion please feel free to leave a comment. If we weren't on a road trip, I would include pictures!

Now, Tilex has a new product out Tilex Mold Stain and Mildew Stain, Refreshing Breeze, that I think I might give a try. And not only do they have new products, but to introduce them they are having a "Cancel the Mold Show in Your Bathroom" Sweepstakes. Are you interested in entering? They are giving away 3 large 40" flat screen TVs as well as some other prizes. Just visit the Tilex Facebook page for more information, but I will let you in on a secret, you will receive an extra entry for each friend you invite.

Take a minute to view the video with Sonny Mold and Frankie Mildew, two trouble-making stars. And then try Tilex to remove them from your own bathroom!

So, be sure to "like" Tilex on Facebook and enter the "Cancel the Mold Show in Your Bathroom" Sweepstakes!

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Tilex blogging program, for 8,000 My SocialMoms Rewards Points. For more information on how you can participate, click here.

Recipes for Fun with Clorox Clean-Up

2012-02-18T14:24:00.003-06:00

Hey Neighbors!

I just received some information about a really neat, new site! It is called Recipes for Fun, and is done by Clorox Clean-Ups. The whole thought being that sometimes having fun can be messy and Clorox Clean-Ups can help, well...with the cleanup part! On their new site, Recipes for Fun, you will find crafts, cooking, wacky science, all sorts of fun projects you can do together with your children. The best part is that for the opening of this new site, Clorox Clean-Ups is having an Ultimate Mess Party contest. You, my neighbors, can sign up for a chance to win $10,000 towards an Ultimate Mess Party! Plus there are other prizes being awarded daily, just for registering or sharing a recipe. Now I know some of my neighbors have some great ideas to share! So hurry over to Recipes for Fun and enter.

Having had 6 children, we have run through all sorts of crafts and recipes. Even the boys participated in crafts and cooking. My youngest is presently going through a cooking stage! She loves to try new things! She recently baked her very own loaf of bread and made a chocolate cream pie! I thought I would share the recipe she used!

Easy White Bread

2 cups flour
1 Tablespoon Sugar
1 Package Active Dry Yeast or Quick Rise Yeast
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 cup warm water
2 Tablespoons margarine (or butter) softened

Add dry ingredients to a large mixing bowl. Mix them together. Then add 1 cup very warm water and the 2 Tablespoons softened margarine. Mix on low speed or by hand for approx. 1 minute. Slowly add more flour, perhaps a 1/4 cup at a time until dough is moist, but not sticky.

Knead by hand (this was the fun part for my daughter) for approx. 10 minutes.until dough is smooth but stretchy (not sure that is a word!)

Place the dough in a well oiled bowl and turn it so that it is all lightly coated with oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and allow to rise in a warm place until it doubles in bulk. (We sat ours on top of the stove.) This takes approx. 45 minutes.

Grease your loaf pan. Punch down your dough. (Another part my daughter enjoyed.) Place in pan, seam side down. Very lightly oil the top surface. Cover loosely with a clean cloth and allow the dough to rise again. You want it to be about double the original size. Anywhere from 25-40 minutes. While you are waiting for the dough to rise, pre-heat your oven to 450 degrees. After about 10 minutes reduce the temperature to 350 degrees. Bake about 30 more minutes. The crust should be a golden brown when done. Remove pan from oven, remove bread from pan and allow to cool on a rack. My family was never very good at this. They always want to eat it right away.

Yes, we had a mess to clean up, be sure to remember Clorox Clean-Ups, but she sure had fun! And the smile on her face when she was done was worth it all!

I just have to add another fun recipe we use, which is really easy. We make our own donuts! Moms need to over see this because you cook them in hot oil, but the children love cutting them out and then coating them with sprinkles, sugar, or even melted chocolate.

We start with refrigerated biscuit dough. You lay the biscuits out on a dry surface and using a small circular object, we have used plastic soda bottle lids, cut out the center of the biscuit. Save these, because your children will enjoy eating donut holes too! Fill a pan with oil and bring to a slow bubble. Slowly drop your donuts in and watch them cook. It doesn't take long. You will need to flip them over so both sides cook. Take them out and lay them on a rack for a moment to cool. Then allow your children to roll them in sugar, or sprinkles, apply icing or chocolate, and enjoy. Ours disappear as fast as we make them.

Now be sure to visit the Recipe for Fun site and enter their Ultimate Mess Party Contest. Also be sure to like the Clorox Facebook page.

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Clorox Clean-Up Recipes for Fun blogging program, for 8,000 My SocialMoms Rewards Points. For more information on this program, click here and see the Terms link.

Lowry Park Zoo

2012-02-18T13:13:00.003-06:00

Hi Neighbors!

Here is an update from Florida; Tampa Lowry Park Zoo is a great place to visit! This is just one of those things that I have to share with my neighbors here At the Fence. I went to the zoo with one of my older daughters, H who is 25. Yes, just the 2 of us. The rest of the family went to MOSI. (You will hear about that in another post.)

The Leopards are so pretty.

Tampa Lowry Park Zoo:
"Lowry Park Zoo was recognized by Parents magazine in 2009 as the #1 zoo in America. They have approx. 1,700 animals on nearly 60 acres. Tampa's first zoo was established in the late 1930s on the banks of the Hillsborough River in PlantPark. It consisted of a small collection of indigenous animals such as raccoons, alligators and an aviary with a variety of exotic birds. As the collection grew, the animals were moved to the more centrally located Lowry Park in 1957, by Mayor Nick Nuccio, where it was maintained by Tampa'sParks Department. Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo celebrated many noteworthy animal collection accomplishments in 2009-10, including several significant births: the Zoo’s first Indian rhino calf; the Zoo’s first and second Grevy’s zebra foals; and the Zoo’s first African white rhinoceros calf. The Zoo also made history - becoming the first wildlife institution in North America to hatch a rare African shoebill stork chick, and just the second institution worldwide.

Catching a nap.

We managed to get there shortly after the zoo opened. It was a pleasant day out, short sleeve weather and quite comfortable. We wanted to make sure to see the Birds of Prey show, so we started out in that direction and saw what we could before it started. To begin with, they have the most adorable Leopards. They are almost a year old, but they were simply cute! They were both out sunning themselves when we first saw them. I was able to take several pictures, and I think they came out great on my new camera.

I loved the color contrast!

In the section we were in there were Warthogs, Tufted Deer, an Indian Rhino and her baby, some really neat looking birds, a Sloth Bear, Tigers, etc. We also had time to visit the reptiles, fish and Manatees, before the Birds of Prey show. There were so many unique critters. There is a turtle that has a small, pink attachment to it's tongue that looks like a tiny, wiggling worm. He just sits there with his mouth open, wiggling the tiny pink thing until something enters his mouth for the worm, then... SNAP, he has lunch! My daughter and I fell in love with the seahorses. They are very unusual. The top half looks like a horse, the horses neck and then it gets narrow for the rest of the body. Their little tiny fins move really fast.

Isn't he regal!

They are so unique.

Finally, it was time for the Birds of Prey. A big thank you should be given to the young man who actually hosted the Birds of Prey. He did an excellent job! The Eastern Screech Owl, the Great Horned Owl, a Hawk, and a Bald Eagle, really made the show. Several of the birds have been trained to fly from platform to platform above the zoo visitors. Some of them fly really close to your head. It was beautiful to see, and well worth the time to stop and take in the show. Great show Lowry Park Zoo! Thank you!

He is seriously cute!

Look at the wing spread!

Next we had to make a stop for lunch. We ate at the Garden Grille. I had a cheese burger, minus the bun, a garden salad, and a diet drink. My daughter had a fish sandwich, side salad and lemonade. The only unusual thing is, they don't use lids or straws. This is done for the animal's safety. They need to keep items like that from getting in with the animals as these could injure one of them.

We ate here.

The baby was cute.

After lunch we visited the Primate area. You have to love the monkeys, chimps, and Tamarins. They just make you laugh. One was sitting by the water with a turtle poised near the edge. He was watching the turtle closely when suddenly another one scurried over and shoved the turtle into the water. We were laughing so hard. He was obviously the "bad boy" of the group, because he immediately ran off and interrupted another group of monkeys that were sitting quietly by themselves until he arrived. Alot of fun to watch. we could have spent hours there watching them.

He was pouting!

This is how I feel after a long day!

The one on the left is the one who shoved the turtle in!

A quick question for my neighbors, did you know that there are penguins who do not live in snow? These were African Penguins. Their body shape is a little different. We were taking pictures, and one started growling at my daughter. At least it sounded like a growl. She tried to get a video, but every time she turned it on, he stopped. Maybe he was shy!

The one in front with the yellow band was growling!

On to the elephants, giraffes, and camels. In this section of the zoo, I saw the strangest bird. It is called a Shoebill Stork. This bird has one of the largest bills I have ever seen. The informational sign said that in hot
weather the parent will get a bill-ful of water and pour it over the eggs to keep them cool.

This is the Shoebill Stork

We then headed to the children's section. Here there is a small petting zoo, Koi that you can touch, if you can get them to come to the surface near you, Emu, pony rides, and bats. Another unique find here is the singing dog, who can also climb trees. Last of all we ran back to visit the otters. Somehow we missed them earlier in the day.

One of the Koi.

We were able to get pretty close to these guys.

There is a carousel, small roller coaster, and a safari ride at the Lowry Park Zoo. We did not have time for the ride, because our time was limited, but we did manage to visit all the areas that were open. They also have a water fountain area where the children can splash and cool off a little. Lowry Park Zoo is renovating some areas of the zoo. The gators, stingrays, along with most of the American section.

This is the water area that children can play in.

Carousel.

I am hoping that on our trip next year these sections will be open again. I would also like for the whole family to go then. I have to admit though that it was nice and relaxing to just spend time with my daughter H. Of course we did have to stop at the gift shop on the way out and look around.

One of the Emu.

The Otter.

The Tampa Lowry Park Zoo is well worth your time to visit. They have signs beside each display with fun facts and information. Lowry Park Zoo also is a manatee hospital for injured manatees. We have actually seen them when we have gone canoeing, out in their natural habitat. They are often injured by propellers on boats and by nets. The Lowry Park Zoo undertakes nursing them back to health.

One of the Manatee.

ADMISSION: NEW FOR 2011 – Unlimited amusement rides included with admission!

One-Day Ticket Prices:

$23.95 for adults

$21.95 for seniors (60+)

$18.95 for children ages 3-11

FREE for children ages 2 and under

DIRECTIONS: The Zoo is located at 1101 W. Sligh Avenue in Tampa, one mile west of

I-275 (exit 48) and approximately 5.5 miles north of downtown Tampa.

CONTACT: For more information, please call (813) 935-8552 or visit

LowryParkZoo.com. Also find the Zoo on Facebook and Twitter.

The Tampa Lowry Park Zoo has special admission days where you can get in for $5 each, so be sure to check their calendar!

A perfect ending to a wonderful day!

Neighbors, be sure to take a minute and leave a comment. Let me know if you have ever visited Lowry Park Zoo. Also let me know which picture you like best!

Disclosure: I received no monetary compensation for this post. I did receive 2 passes to the Lowry Park Zoo. All quotes are taken directly from the Lowry Park Zoo or website. All thoughts and opinions are entirely mine.

Zylie Went Camping!

2012-02-17T21:30:00.001-06:00

Hello Neighbors!

It was really hot today. Zylie was so glad to get in the air at the hotel! We pulled into a campground, Wekiwa Springs on the 15th and set up our tents. One tent for Dad, Mom, and my brothers and one tent for my three sisters and Zylie! It was hot but it wasn't to bad.The no seeums were bad though. Some of us looked like we were contagious. If you have never been bit by them before, they leave a little red dot, that is usually gone the next day.

On the sixteenth we ran out for some groceries and then came back and some of the girls took a hike. We really enjoyed that! I think we walked a mile or two. We visited the springs in the park.

Thursday night we we cooked burgers over a campfire! They were soooo good! We were all sitting around waiting for the burgers to finish cooking just talking and enjoying ourselves. My Dad was the cook! It was much cooler the second night. We actually got under the covers!

This morning when we were getting ready to leave Zylie had alot of fun helping us pack everything back up. We had a race to see who could take down and pack their tent up the fastest. The boys or the girls! Guess who won? The girls won! YAY!! Zylie was very excited. We had hotdogs for lunch and then finished packing up and left! We get to camp again next week. We can't wait!

As an extra entry in the Zylie or Shen giveaway visit the Zylie website and then leave a comment on the original post, telling me one of the countries Zylie has been to. Keep an eye out for more Zylie updates!

Cafe Press Sigg Water Bottle

2012-02-17T16:06:00.004-06:00

Hey Neighbors!

As you all know by now, we are spending the month of Florida in February! And wow, is it hot! While traveling I like to have a drink with me, water or diet, so Cafe Press offered me a Sigg Water Bottle that I was allowed to design. I used our At the Fence photo, along with Florida in February. I think it came out pretty nice. They did a GREAT job.

This is perfect for traveling! Or camping, which we have already done once, and will be doing again. You can add a carabiner and tote it around on your backpack or belt loop. It is also great for a trip to the gym. And now I get to advertise for At the Fence while I am there!

Cafe Press really does a great job on personalizing items. Whether it is a water bottle, shirt, blanket or even an iPad case. Not only do they have a major amount of artwork, phrases etc. already available, but they also allow you to design your own! And every time I check, they have come out with a new product to personalize. These make wonderful gifts. Be sure to check out the Cafe Press website.

Cafe Press will be sending one winner from this giveaway a Sigg water bottle with the design of their choice on it.

Disclosure:I received no monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a personalized Sigg Water Bottle. All noted quotes are taken from the Cafe Press site. All thoughts and opinions are entirely mine.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Why Should a Company Use Google Maps in Marketing!

2012-02-15T20:16:00.002-06:00

Hey Neighbors!

Just a quick question, do you use Google maps to find locations? I do! We travel ALOT, and I am always looking for restaurants, shops, and we even had to look for a dentist on one trip. (Someone needed a tooth filled!) Google maps helps make my decisions so much easier. I LOVE when companies have the Google Maps right on their site so I can find their location. It often makes the decision for me when I can see where they are in relation to our hotel or campground. Big benefit!

If you have a business you should use google maps marketing options for your customers. I sure would! For those of you who have businesses and are debating whether to use it or not, I need to tell you that I often choose the business that has Google maps with directions over one that does not. Especially if you are trying to draw in people from surrounding areas or visitors to the area this would be a drawing point. I don't know what I would do without Google search and Google maps. We use them on our iPad when we don't have time to pull the laptop up!

So I would say that using Google Maps in Marketing is a no brainer. It can only help build your business, and who knows how many return customers you will have after they find you the first time. They have to find you to shop or use your service.

Neighbors, let me know what you think. Do you tend to visit a business that you found using Google maps? Are you more prone to visit a business that has easily accessible directions? Let us know what you think.

I am participating in a blogger campaign by Bucks2Blog and was compensated. However, the views and opinions are my own.

Nonni's Biscotti and Biscotti Bites!

2012-02-15T10:43:00.000-06:00

Neighbors!

I wanted to let you in on a great treat you can share with someone you love! Nonni's Biscotti and Biscotti Bites. Perfect to share over a cup of coffee or hot tea for a quiet moment with that special someone. I received several packages of Nonni's to try out.

We have Turtle Pecan, Originali, Gingerbread Almond, in the regular Biscotti. For the Biscotti Bites, we received Almond Dark Chocolate (My husbands favorite!), and Classic Almond. My husband didn't even wait for me to take pictures before sampling the Almond Dark Chocolate Biscotti Bites. And I will have to hide them from my oldest daughter. When she finds them, she hides them to have with her coffee!

Just look at this description for the Almond Dark Chocolate Biscotti Bites:Classic almond biscotti dipped in gourmet dark chocolate. This bite-size treat is a modern tradition combining the delicate flavors of Biscotti with the rich taste of the finest chocolate available. Does this sound tempting?

The Beginnings of a Tradition:
In the small Tuscan town of Lucca, Italy, our friend's grandma (Nonni) made biscotti to share with family and friends. When Nonni came to America, almost a century ago, she brought the family recipe, along with a stubborn devotion to the finest ingredients and her own unique baking style.

So neighbors, if you are looking for a special treat for the special person, be sure to try Nonni's Biscotti and Biscotti Bites. You will be glad you did.

Disclosure:I received no monetary compensation for this post. I did receive Nonni's Biscotti and Biscotti Bites for review purposes. All quotes are taken from the website or email. All thoughts and opinions are entirely mine.

Kidlandia Kreechurs

2012-02-14T07:00:00.000-06:00

Hi Neighbors!

I have a confessions to make, our Kidlandia Mousefly came on vacation with us! Yes, we actually brought her along. Now, I really don't know for sure if it is supposed to be male or female, but we decided that ours was a girl. She is cute! Anyway, the Mousefly is one of Kidlandia's plush Kreechurs. She is a combination church mouse and big eared bat. Our Mousefly is 7 inches from the tip of her little nose to the tip end of her tail. Her pink and brown coloring are just perfect! My children think she is adorable. Her fur is extremely soft. And her huge eyes just add to her cuteness. We are calling her: Little Bit. She is perfectly pocket-sized. She can travel in a backpack if necessary!

Here is Little Bit, Our Mousefly.

She is sunning herself in our hotel window.

Anyway, she is just one of the Kidlandia Kreechurs. They are available for just $14.95 plus shipping. They are limited editions at FAO Schwarz.

Kidlandia also has personalized products available. Mugs, blankets, placemats, puzzles and many other items can be personalized for your child's enjoyment. They can design their own country, create a family tree, or map out a play paradise. Then they can have it as a keepsake on one of the products available through Kidlandia. Pretty neat!

Sitting up so her back can get some sun!

She has to change sides so she doesn't burn.

Be sure to visit Kidlandia. One neighbor will be receiving one of the plush Kidlandia Kreechurs (Company choice). Be sure to enter!

Disclosure:I received no monetary compensation for this post. I did receive 1 Mousefly. All quotes are taken from the Kidlandia email or website. All thoughts and opinions are entirely mine.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Abundant Harvest Game Giveaway

2012-02-13T16:03:00.000-06:00

Hey neighbors!

My oldest son is now running PI of Products and has a giveaway going on for the Abundant Harvest Game (Kid's Version). The first person to contact the game designer on his website will receive a copy of the game. For more information click here. Maybe a neighbor will win!

See you At the Fence!

Lulu Calendars, Books and More

2012-02-13T13:58:00.002-06:00

Hi Neighbors!

How is your weather lately? We are spending the month of February in Florida, but I have a close friend in NY who said it was 10 degrees out the other day. (I was in short sleeves and enjoying the weather at the time!) Anyway, here is a fun way to spend a chilly day, visit Lulu and design a calendar, book, cookbook etc. I had so much fun putting mine together! I received a huge calendar with pictures I had taken, along with pictures of the family! It looks great! I was also impressed by the quality. Often times when you get a calendar done it is on a flimsy paper, that rips out before the month is over. Especially if you write on yours as much as we write on ours! I did select the Premium 13.5 x 19 in. They start at $23.99, but believe me, it is well worth the price. I may even order one next year! This will be hung on the wall next to my computer desk. It is perfect for keeping deadlines and special dates in. Take a look and see what you think!

The front cover is a Cardinal that was resting on our feeders.

Sorry for the shadow, but this shows one way you can arrange the pictures.

It was so easy to design. Lulu makes it simple! I was able to choose the pictures that I wanted and arrange them on the top of the calendar. You get to choose a picture for the cover too!. You can also have special dates printed in the calendar, like birthdays, anniversaries, and such. After putting it all together, I was able to preview it and then place my order. Quick and easy!

May has all our dogs!

July 31st is our 30th Wedding Anniversary!

Now, as I mentioned above that Lulu also does books! Cooking, photo, wedding, you name it. I would love to do a wedding book for my friend in Chicago who just was married. Their finances are very tight and they had to actually put up with me as their photographer, so I thought it would be neat if I could get a book done for her. If I do, I will be sure and share it with my neighbors here.

This is one of the pictures I took with my new camera!

You can see the wire binding.

Personalized calendars make the perfect gift! Design one from wedding photos for the couple who was just married. Make a family calendar. If you are a photographer, feature your own works of art. This would make a great fundraiser for a Little League team, with photos of the players and action photos from games or practice. These would be perfect for a church, with pictures from different activities from the past year.

I was very happy with my experience with Lulu, from start to finish. I am sure my neighbor who wins this giveaway will be completely satisfied with her calendar. 1 Neighbor will get to design their own calendar from Lulu.

Disclosure: I received no monetary compensation for this post. I did receive one Lulu Calendar. All quotes are taken from the Lulu website or email. All thoughts and opinions are entirely mine.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sweet Tomatoes and a Sweet Giveaway!

2012-02-11T14:45:00.001-06:00

Update: Sweet Tomatoes will have Red Velvet Cake ALL DAY on February 14 for lunch and dinner and then they will have the Red Velvet Lava Cake for DINNER ONLY on 2/15 through 2/18!

Hey Neighbors!

If you visit At the Fence regularly, you know that I have posted about Sweet Tomatoes previously, and we really enjoy eating there! Now, I have to tell you, I would not travel 1,000 miles just to eat at Sweet Tomatoes, but I was really happy to know that there was one within walking distance of our hotel.

Sweet Tomatoes has really fresh food! Have you ever walked into a restaurant and looked at the salad bar, and the lettuce is all brown and the veggies just don't look fresh? I have NEVER had that happen at Sweet Tomatoes! Everything is fresh and just made. You almost expect to see the farmer's trucks making deliveries.

I personally pay the extra $2.49 so I can have chicken with my salad, but my husband just makes a large salad, and then enjoys the extras! He always has a bowl of their chili with crackers. This last visit he tried their Foccacia and LOVED it. He also had his salad, chili with crackers, fettucini and macaroni and cheese. All done by scratch and freshly made. Have you caught on yet that their food is fresh?

The whole month of February they are having guest favorites. Sweet Tomatoes took a survey of over 7,000 people and have tallied the favorites and are bringing them back throughout the month of February. Each week features different favorites. And after 4:00pm each day they have a very special dessert! Be sure to check out the listing below!

We visited a Sweet Tomatoes in Sarasota. The service and food were GREAT! And amazingly there is a wide variety. Once you have filled your salad plates, and seated yourselves, there is a variety of FRESH soups, baked goods, and pasta. We also appreciate the choices available for drink. There are juices, milk (my husband had chocolate milk), soda, tea, and coffee. You can even create your own drink. Put ice in your cup add coffee, a little bit of chocolate and you will have an iced chocolate mocha. YUM!

So, be sure and take a minute to enter because Sweet Tomatoes is giving away 2 meal passes. They do not include your beverage. So what are you waiting for?

Disclosure:I received no monetary compensation for this post. I did receive 2 dinner passes for Sweet Tomatoes. All quotes are taken from the website or email. All thoughts and opinions are mine.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Zylie's Continued Travels

2012-02-09T20:51:00.001-06:00

The bear is in the woods! Zylie on my daughters blanket. #1

Hi Neighbors!

Here is a photo update on Zylie and M.

Traveling together! #2

Catching a nap. #3

A quick stop at a gas station. #4

Traveling again! #5

Art work while driving. #6

Goofing around while her brother fills the tank! #7

Ready for bed! #8

In bed together! #9

Bedtime snack and a glass of milk. #10

Well, here is the new entry! Go to the original post and leave a comment telling me which picture you like best in this post. Click Original post to enter through the Rafflecopter.

Cooking!

2012-02-08T15:46:00.000-06:00

Hello Neighbors!

How is everyone today? A really nice day to be out here visiting At the Fence. We will be updating At the Fence as we travel so make sure you keep checking back.

We have been doing alot of cooking and baking lately. ALOT! My little sister is planning on making a Cherry Pie, a Cake, Cookies, and more. Plus, she has been making meals and is planning on more. She will be in charge of the kitchen for one whole week. The one hard thing about this is that we use alot of pots, pans, and dishes. I don't know why, there are only 8 of us! We have one pot rack in the kitchen but it is so low that our pets (our Cat and our Dogs) can easily reach it. And that is something that we do not want! So we have been looking at different pot racks to see if we can find another one that would work easier for us. One brand I was looking at is Enclume pot racks. I believe the Enclume pot rack would work best for us. Or maybe one of the mounted wall Enclume potracks. What do you think? What type of pot rack do you like best? Leave a comment below and let us know!

Brought to you by your friends at : www.enclumepotracks.com.

Teton Sports Escape 4300 Ultralight Backpack

2012-02-07T20:57:00.001-06:00

Hey neighbors!

Here is another SUPER GREAT review and giveaway. This is another one that will run to the end of the month and will have added entries throughout the month. As you know we are on our way to Florida. Almost there! We are in northern GA, at a church we visit every year. Once we hit Florida we will be doing some camping and hiking. You can't hike without a good backpack. I personally can't wait to try out this backpack. It is loaded with many really neat features!

I am going to tell you a little bit about it in this post and reveal more as we go along. Now, we have not actually tried it out yet, but if it is as good as the other Teton Sports products we own, I know I will not be disappointed. I may have an argument on my hands though between the two boys about who gets to use it first.

This is an internal frame pack that is very light weight. It is a large pack, so it can be used for a week long trip or when you are carrying alot of gear. It does have an internal sleeping bag compartment, and a rain fly. Remember, I am going to be giving bits and pieces here and there and including more pictures and ways to enter. So, that is all I am going to share for now.

For those who wish to purchase one of these packs, be sure to visit this link TETON Sports Escape4300 Ultralight Internal Frame Backpack (Light Green, 33-Inch x 17-Inch x 12-Inch) .

Now, be sure to enter and take time to stop back by for more information and extra entries.

Disclosure:I received no monetary compensation for this post. I did receive an Escape 4300 Backpack for review purposes. All quotes are taken from the website or email. All thoughts and opinions are mine.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Zylie Trip Update! New Way to Enter!

2012-02-07T09:52:00.001-06:00

Hey neighbors!

Well we are on our journey. M and Zylie are having a great time traveling and seeing the sites. I am having fun too, other than our vehicle was broken into. We parked it in a paid parking lot, and when my sons went back the driver's door was open just a little bit. They figured it hadn't closed right, put things in and re-locked the vehicle and left. When we finally left that evening they told us about finding the door slightly open, and we just figured maybe it hadn't closed. Well, we got up and prepared to leave the next morning and my one son noticed that the lock on our door was punched out. Apparently, whoever tried breaking in only got that far because nothing was taken. The stereo was still in place, all our CDs were there, even the Garmin. Why didn't we notice it the night before? Because we have one of those clickers that locks and unlocks the doors. We don't even use the key-lock. But it gets even better, after using the door a couple of times, it no longer opens period. So, now my husband has to climb in over my seat and the center console. Yeah! We are planning on having it repaired by the end of the week, when we get to our destination.

Ready to Travel!

Sleeping in the vehicle!

Traveling together!

Anyway, back to Zylie. We stayed in a really nice campground a few nights, in Trafalgar IN. They loved sleeping in the bunkbeds. We were also able to get a picture of some miniature horses that are down the road. Today we went through Louisville KY and stopped at one of our favorite stores, Half Price Books! They are so much fun! M and Zylie picked up some new books to read on the trip. We also managed to get some pictures of crossing the bridge. M is going to go swimming at the hotel, but I am afraid Zylie will just have to watch. She just takes too long to get dry!

Here is the new entry! I am adding this to the Rafflecopter of the original post so be sure to go back and get an extra entry! Leave a comment on the original post (http://www.atthefenceonline.com/2012/01/zylie-goes-to-florida.html) naming one of the states we have been in so far.

Downeast Basics

2012-02-04T13:00:00.000-06:00

Hey Neighbors!

How many of you are looking forward to spring? I am! I enjoy winter, but spring and fall are my favorite times of the year. I just love getting back outside and getting active in our garden, taking walks again. Another thing I like is I get to wear different clothing! I am not all bundled up against winter weather and you can actually see what I am wearing!

I personally love sweaters and capes! So, when I was given a chance to choose an item from Downeast Basics I jumped at one of their sweaters! It is a gorgeous Canal Blue, Dallop Cardi. Simply stunning! It has a chiffon flower applique on the front, and is a classic button front sweater. Light weight, and perfect for those spring mornings with a slight breeze, or small nip still in the air. Or perhaps an evening stroll with that special someone! This Dallop Cardi could be both casual or dressy, depending on what outfit you decide to pair it with. It is also available in Bungee Cord. A unique name for a beautiful color!

Downeast Basics has so much to choose from. My two oldest daughters love to browse their site. I know one of them has her eye on the Kickback Cardi. So, as you start to think about your spring wardrobe, be sure to keep Downeast Basics in mind.

One neighbor will receive one item from the new arrivals from Downeast Basics. US only.

Disclosure:I did not receive any monetary compensation for this post. I did receive a sweater for review purposes. All quotes are from the website or email. All thoughts and opinions are mine.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Bald Eagles

2012-02-01T20:27:00.003-06:00

Hi Neighbors!

I took a couple of pictures the last few days of some Bald Eagles and wanted to share them with you! I was amazed I was able to catch these!

Hope you enjoy these! See you At the Fence!

Zylie Leaves Tomorrow!

2012-02-01T18:00:00.000-06:00

Hi Neighbors!

We are packed and just about ready to go. Zylie is packed and soooooo excited. She will sleep with M tonight and then after we get mail in the morning we head out. I think M and Zylie are going to have alot of good times! Wait till you see everywhere they go!

Here is Zylie, with her bag, sitting on some of the blankets we will be using camping!

Zylie is "bearly" able to contain herself. She has packed and re-packed. Everything fit in her suitcase, that matches M's. We will be sure to take lots of pictures of Zylie and M together on this trip. Camping should be fun! I hope Zylie does not snore!

Anyway, are you ready to hear how you can get a Zylie or Shen of your own? Just enter here on the Rafflecopter, and then be sure to check back, because we will be adding more ways to enter throughout the month! The giveaway will end March 5th and the winner will be notified by email. This is restricted to USA only. The winner will have 48 hours to respond.

Disclosure:I received no monetary compensation for this review. I previously received a Zylie for review purposes. All quotes are taken from the email or website. All thoughts and opinions are mine, or M's.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Prepping For Summertime

2012-02-01T09:22:00.000-06:00

Many people prefer to spend the long days and remarkably warm nights of summer outdoors. So as the
days are getting longer and the cold is ebbing away, that means it is time to think about the summer months and how you want to spend them. Whether you are gathering up the camping gear to head to the mountains, or heading to the cool shores for a breath of fresh open air, you’ll want to be prepared. You’ll need plenty more than sunscreen, after all, to get through the camping in the summer in most parts of the country.
Camping gear is a world of gadgets and cool items that you may get lost in. There is a lot to consider but only a few simple items that I think you should have on hand or in your car at all times. Sleeping bags and tents are great for those who like to rough it in the woods and leave the luxuries of everyday life behind. However, if you’re bringing along some friends who may be a bit fussy about camping without at least a few essentials, you may have to make some accommodations. Under those sleeping bags should go some sleeping mats, which can help to keep you from sleeping with a rock sticking into your spine all night. The thick, self-inflating kind is best for those with sore or overly stressed backs. Battery-powered cooking gear and radio equipment can also be useful in these instances, particularly if it satisfies those less accustomed to camping and helps them adjust.
If you’re heading to the beach instead of the mountains, you can still bring the tent for camping, but you won’t need as many blankets. A bonfire on the beach during a summer night can be an incredible experience, so be sure to check on local regulations for starting controlled fires and what permits you may need to obtain. Beach camping can be tourist-crazy in some parts as well, so while you may need to rely less on bringing so many supplies (stores are commonplace near the beach), you’ll need to focus on logistical and spatial concerns. Hopefully, the crashing of waves and the better temperature regulation near ocean water makes dealing with a larger number of tourists less of a hassle. And bring tent tarps just in case it rains!
Having the right summer camping gear, and the right state of mind, can make summertime camping a breeze, on the mountains or beside the sea.

Disclosure:This is a sponsored post.

Zylie Goes to Florida!

2012-01-31T21:20:00.000-06:00

Hey neighbors!

Everyone remember Zylie the bear? She is going on vacation with us to Florida! Zylie will be traveling with my daughter and occasionally dropping in here At the Fence for updates. We are actually leaving Thursday, but I thought we would begin the first post here.

Zylie has her bags almost completely packed, with my daughters help. She has borrowed some clothing from my daughters dolls, so you will see her in some different outfits. Every well traveled bears needs a few outfits for a month long trip! Tomorrow, Zylie and M will finish packing and they will load their bags into the trailer. We will be pulling a cargo trailer for all our stuff! Of course Zylie and M are bringing some books to read, some stories to listen to, and M has started drawing, so I am sure they will spend some of their time traveling, drawing pictures.

Zylie and M will have to share a seat with M's older sister and brother. Hopefully it won't be too crowded. But Zylie "bearly" takes up any room!

Now, here is the great news...we are going to have another giveaway, where the winner may choose either Zylie or Shen. Here is how this will work. We will start the giveaway Wednesday. I will have a small post, and include a Rafflecopter for entry. With each updated post from M and Zylie, there will be one extra way to enter. The giveaway will end the end of February, when a winner will be chosen randomly to receive their choice of either Zylie or Shen. So be sure to check back often to see how the trip is going!