Big News!

Hello, Pitstop Shoppers! Some big things are brewing at Penelope's Pitstop and I am so excited! Albeit, slowly, I am transitioning to a new website...to be disclosed soon. When I first started Penelope's Pitstop, it just seemed like a fun endeavor to share with my friends and family. Over the past year, my readership has surprising grown to people who actually don't know and love me like my momma. I have had more and more offers to do Product Reviews and Advertisements. In the past I have turned them down, but have recently decided it would be fun to give it all a try.

My new website will have multiple pages. The home page will stay true to Penelope's Pitstop: Praiseworthy Paraphernalia and be just that...products that a guest contributor or myself believes to be particularly praiseworthy. Nothing will change there. However, I will have another page for Product Reviews and Giveaways that have been solicited by vendors. The reviews will still be first hand experience with a product, but they will be products that are sent to me specifically for reviewing purposes.

I am really excited to kick all of this off. My sweet web designer had her first baby two days ago (coincidentally at 4:56pm on 7/8/09) and I am waiting for her to return to sanity...if moms ever are allowed to get their sanity back! We are going to make a few changes and then launch away!

So, I am still blogging on my personal favorites, still welcoming guest writers, and adding product reviews and give-aways! So, keep your eye out and tell your friends!

Brain Quest

I am sure many of you have seen Brain Quest products before, as I have many times. However, this summer I decided to buy a workbook for my 5 year-old son. He is still at the age where he loves doing school work and I figured a workbook would keep him "fresh" over the summer. He is not only doing a great job practicing his letters (he just finished Pre-school) and numbers, but he thinks he is the coolest kid on the block because he has a school workbook. We sit down every once and awhile and I explain what to do for each page. He writes words, plays games...fun stuff! Brain Quest makes these books for all ages.

Of course, my youngest little toot wants to do everything his big brother does, so we bought him a hand held sized "book". It has actually been a fantastic idea, as his speech is a little behind. He doesn't like to sit and work with me, but he will answer questions for hours about the pictures and stories provided on the cards, which really helps him with his words.

As I searched out Brain Quest on-line, I found all sorts of fun books...DVD games for the computer, books for the car, American History, Presidents. What a great idea for a road trip...and the good Lord knows I could even use a brush-up on American History!

Brain Quest makes it fun for the kids to use their brains over the summer and easy for Mom and Dad to sit down and spend some time with their kids working on productive things! Check them out!

Blog2Print.com

Most of my friends know that about a year ago, I inadvertently deleted my family blog, as well as Penelope's Pitstop when I was "cleaning up" and deleted an old Gmail address. Evidently, it was linked to my blog and by deleting it, deleted both of my blogs. It was devastating...still is. I had every intention prior to that day of printing my family blog into a book, I just didn't know how.

I finally did the research and found a great resource for printing blogs into books. I found several sites I really liked, but my main goal was to "get it done"...no big laborious project. The first site I found that I really liked was Blurb.com. Their books are beautiful books with lots of options. However, I found that I had to layout every page again. While I will use Blurb in the future, it was not what I was looking for this time.

Then, I found Blog2print. BINGO! I clicked a button that said, "I use Blogger" or "I use Wordpress," etc. and typed in my blog address. It downloaded my blog in a matter of minutes. I made a few (limited) choices about the book cover and insides and it was sent to print. I received it 2 weeks later. The pros were definitely the ease and speed of completing my project, as well as the price. The cons were the limited choices on the book cover layout and some spacing issues with my pictures, but only on a couple of blogs.

Bottom line, one year of my blog is in writing in a book, one for each of my boys...never to be lost again! I was pleased enough with it that I will be printing 2008 into a book soon, as well. If you are interested in printing your blog and you don't want to spend hours laying it out, I would definitely recommend Blog2print.

MD Lash Factor

Today, my my sweet product-loving friend Monica introduces us to an incredible beauty secret! Read on!

When I was pregnant with my last son, I was desperate to have people look at my face instead of my belly. I decided to give eyelash extensions a try, which rocked--until I had to take them off for a month to let my natural lashes "regroup." My lash lady assured me this was a necessity, but I hated it because after those long sweeping beauties, my natural lashes just didn't do the trick, not to mention being shorter and thinner than before. "Well," I thought, "this will never do!" I immediately went on the hunt for a product that would lengthen and strengthen my natural lashes. After several false starts, I hit the jackpot! MD Lash Factor is the BOMB, ladies. I bought it and began using it without telling anyone. Within one month, I had four girlfriends ask me if I was using extensions again, and I have now "sold" no less than eight people on MD Lash Factor! There are very few products on the market that actually do what they say they are going to do, but this one truly does. Buy it with confidence, it works!

Thanks, Monica! Who doesn't want to have long lashes? Monica was so excited to tell me about MD Lash Factor because she is a complete believer. It is a little on the pricey side, but taking Monica's word for it's abilities, sometimes beauty requires a little expense....especially if you have short lashes like me! I can't wait to get my hands on it!

Tooth Pirates

Ahoy, Matey! My oldest son is 5 years-old and yesterday, he lost his first tooth. I didn't realize until it was out how completely unprepared I was for this big event. We saved his tiny little tooth and stuck it under his pillow in a Ziploc bag. Something about that Ziploc bag didn't feel so special.

I have had my eye on these cute cute "Tooth Pirates" for over a year and kept thinking I didn't need it yet. Well, I do now. Might as well order 3, one for each of my boys. The Tooth Pirates are so cute, measuring about 8 inches tall and each having a treasure box to stash the treasured lost tooth for the Tooth Fairy's arrival. There are 2 choices for boys, as they make a Tooth Captain and a Tooth Pirate. Here, here! They also make a Tooth Pirate Girl. And, if your little girl is more the princess type, these darling Fancy Prancy Tooth Fairies might be perfect!

These are too cute to pass up....even great as gifts for the 5-7 year old. You might even order in advance so you don't get caught with a Ziploc like me!

Body Butter

Body Butter how much do I love thee? I have loved The Body Shop's Body Butter since I first discovered it, possibly in high school (ie more than a few years ago). I like to have smoothe skin and I don't like to have dry skin. Yes, I buy store-bought lotion, but I have discovered that, while I don't have really dry skin, many of the store-bought lotions just don't cut it. I often have to re-apply and still never feel completely free of dryness. It's those fillers, I tell you. I am telling you I want supple skin...

When I first started using Body Butter there were only two choices and I love love loved the Avocado Body Butter. Today, there are 12 flavor choices for you...and they really work. It is super thick and especially great to nourish your skin after being in the sun this summer and great after shaving your legs. Oh! and great in the dry winter. It is great all year long!

Aaaaahhhh....I love me some Body Butter. Click the link below and check out the flavors and order your favorite smell. I guarantee you will LOVE. IT. And they are even having a sale right now!

Crocs

We all know what Crocs are, so I am certain I am not filling you in on anything new there. However, I once saw a little boy in Batman Crocs and set forth on a much bigger mission finding them for my little toot than I had planned.

My 3 year-old is obsessed with Batman and the black Batman Crocs were the perfect purchase for him. Evidently, everyone else in the world loved them, too. I could not find them anywhere. I was so excited when after an hour of scrolling thru Google, I found a pair in his size. I ordered them with the click of a button and Voila! birthday present accomplished. About a week later, I received a bill in the mail for "Import Fees". Evidently, I finally located the Batman Crocs in Canada and paid and additional fee (unbeknownst to my hubs) to import them into the United States. It would only happen to me...

Since we received the international goods, we have received oodles of compliments on those Batman Crocs with many mommies dying to know where I found them. After all that work, I found them again simply at Crocs.com. If you click the link below (and type "Batman" in the search bar), Penelope's Pitstop gets the credit and you get your Batman Crocs....or any other wonderful style of Croc you would like!

Sweaty Bands

These "Sweaty Bands" are so cute and a "Must-Have" from my friend, Jodi:

Newest favorite thing I can't live without...Sweaty Bands! They are part sweat band/part head band and they are totally cute! I received my first one as a gift from a friend. I thought it was cute, but wasn't sure when or where I would wear it. I threw it on one day when I went to exercise, and now I wear it every time I exercise! It keeps the fly-aways at bay and keeps sweat out of your eyes. It stays in place and it's very comfortable. I love them so much, I just ordered 4 more (hey, one was a gift)! There are so many great designs to choose from. They would make great gifts for moms, grads, kids, etc. Check out the website below to see lots of cute pictures of people wearing sweaty bands. The owner, Donna, is the sweetest and customer service is her game! She mailed them out right away. Once you try them, you'll want one in every color (I know I do)! I may never fix my hair again!

Thanks, Jodi! This is very much the phase of my life...summertime, pregnant, being a mom, or just lazy, I pull my hair back every day in a (not-so-cute) elastic headband and pony tail. I can't wait to receive mine in the mail! These are awesome gifts for mom's, friends, kiddos...the list is endless! They are so cute, they don't just have to be for working out...I would wear these to go out! Click the link below to order yours!

Grill Thermometers and Gloves

Holy Cow! Father's Day is this week. Need an idea? I just ordered the following for the father's in my life. Close your eye's Dad and hubs! My hubs is actually compulsive about his cooking and grilling. He certainly goes in phases, but when he grills he wants it done right. In the past I gave him a digital fork grill thermometer and he loved it. The unfortunate part about that, is that it doesn't like water. Ooops! It got submerged in water and washed a few weeks ago. This time, I thought I would get him the grill thermometer with probes, also. This one works so that you can put the probes in the meat and set in on top of the grill while it cooks. He can see the temperature of the meat without ever lifting the ole' Hasty Bake lid. For the record the above thermometers were confirmed with Consumer Reports. My husband would buy nothing without consulting them, so how could I?

I also got a hint that he wanted some good grill gloves. There are several options in this department, but I settled on heat resistant leather grill gloves versus the silicone mitts. The gloves allow more movement and dexterity, so I voted for those. However, as sure as I give him those, he will want the silicone gloves. I am quite certain he would like either.

You can still order these thing in time for Father's Day for your men...just click the pictures!

Nap Mats

I recognize that summer is just beginning, but before you know it, Nap mat season will be upon you. With my first child, the whole nap mat phenomenon sneaked up on me. What the heck is a nap mat and where do I get one? I got on-line the week before school started and discovered a whole new world. We were definitely late receiving it in time for school, but once received, the nap mats in our house were "so cool". I found my favorites at In This Very Room. Having a house full of boys, Camouflage seems to be our "color". My oldest son got an Advantage Timber nap mat with orange monogram, while our second son received Advantage Max. Seriously, who cares about different camouflages, but I grew up with a hunter and married a hunter. I know my camo's.

Each of them are well made with very thick fabric. They have a removable mat and pillow which makes for quick and easy washing. While the pillow part is attached to the mat, the blanket is not (which I like better). They have great handles that allow you to fold it up and snap it into a perfect little tote. The best part about monogramming the blanket and nap mat is that when it leaves the house, it always comes back!

My oldest doesn't use a nap mat anymore for school, but man they love to play with them still! If you have a future nap mat need, order now, so you won't be late like I was!

Cutest Towels!

This season, we have discovered the best ever towel for my Batman-obsessed 3-year-old. My Mom sent this mongrammed Bat towel to him for his 3rd birthday 2 weeks ago. Before we could even get to the pool, he was wearing it all over the house flying incognito. The pool was another story. He cried and cried because he wanted to wear it swimming so he could see the cape fly behind him. The front of the towel hooks over his his head and reveals a Batman mask...the ultimate in "cool" in a 3-year-old world. Between the pool and his swimming lessons, we have been stopped by at least 5 people in the last week wanting to be as cool...

I will admit that although I am a girl, every day I lose touch with what girls like as we build our repertoire of boy-toys and boy paraphernalia. However, just a few clicks away from Batman are these darling Mermaid towels for the girls in your life. They are so darn cute. If I had a girl, I would have already ordered it.

I know these towels are a little more than most might want to spend on a beach towel, but they are, of course, cute and the towels are actually good and thick. They are just one of those things you might have to make a splurge on for your cutie. Go forth and conquer. It's time to get fashion foward with these cute towels. Now, the little boy or girl in your life can be all the rave at the pool!

Hang Straight and Be Curly

In the past week my husband, who has great curls, and I, having no curls at all, have both run out of our favorite hair products....Aveda's Hang Straight and Be Curly. We have discovered that, although we often try grocery store products, we just can't live without our Aveda hair products. My husband would love to roll out of bed and not have to tend to his hair, but that would land him looking like Cramer or Will Farrell with his finger in a light socket...a nice morning 'fro. He just has to put that extra 20 seconds in to his morning routine. There is no avoiding it.

Let me tell you how many hair products my hubs has tried...I could count all the half used bottles in our cabinet. They each end up being too greasy or making his hair too curly or not lasting throughout a day. As much as he hates to admit he prefers a salon product, he has come to the conclusion that Be Curly is the best product for his curls.

I, on the other hand, used to have bone straight hair. Something happened after children and probably the anesthesia I have had from several surgeries that qualifies my hair for a frizzy mess. I have tried many a hair product, but nothing is as light and non-greasy as my Hang Straight. I can use it with or without a straightener and be happy with the end result.

If you haven't jumped on the Aveda band wagon, I am sure you have either curly or straight hair needs, give these two a shot. Coming from a girl who puts as little time in to her hair as possible, these certainly do the trick! We can't live without them!

momAgenda School Years Book

I have come to a major crossroads in my life. To some, it may be quite petty, to those who value scrap booking, you will understand. I started doing Creative Memories scrapbooks when I was in college. I love every inch of them. Since college, I have made many more scrapbooks, always using the Creative Memories approach. Each of my boys has a book, going on 2 each, as well as our family book. Thus, I am currently keeping 3 books going at a time. Yes, it's crazy. Come September, when I have my third child, I will have yet another book to keep up with. I love that each child has a baby book that he will someday have to show his children, but I have put my foot down on how many books he will have. I can just see the day that I hand over 20 huge scrapbooks to their wives...that would be a true mother-in-law moment.

I have recently determined that as soon as each boy starts Kindergarten, they will become a part of the family album. BUT, as my mom did for me, I want them to have a more "scrappy" book...for school pictures, report cards, awards, etc. Meet the momAgenda answer to my worries: The School Years Book. Kindergarten through 12th grade is captured in one book. It has a pocket to keep things like report cards and papers in, a place to put a school picture, and blanks to fill in about your child for that particular year. My mom kept a very similar album for me and I love it as much as my baby books. Through momAgenda you can even have each book you order personalized with their names.

Sold! I am buying 3 right now. Really. Who am I kidding that I can keep up with four scrapbooks for the next 18 years? Funny. I know. Click the momAgenda link below or in the left column to buy your books!

P.S. I just ordered my AWESOME momAgenda calendar for next school year...dates are already cropping up for the Fall! Do you have yours?

Tassimo One-Cup Coffee Maker

What in the world will you buy the father's for Father's Day? You might consider the Tassimo One-cup Coffee Maker. I don't drink coffee, but my husband does. Even if I did, he leaves so early in the morning, the coffee would be cold by the time I got myself to the kitchen. Thus, for Christmas he asked for this Tassimo Coffee Maker. Ask and ye shall receive...especially with a man who never lets you know what he wants!

My husband buys very few things without consulting Consumer Reports. So, before Christmas he did his research and passed on his choice to me. He loves his Tassimo One-Cup because it does just that...it makes one cup on coffee in less than a minute. That is about the time he allows himself to grab a bite and get out the door to work. You put water in the coffee maker and just stick these cool little discs (of any flavor) into the coffee maker and...voila! Very little effort and a great cup of coffee. Not only that, but he puts his "to-go" cup under the drip and leaves nothing for clean-up. That is why I love this baby. We still have our bigger coffee maker for when we have company, but this little guy is well worth every cent...for him and for me!

If you aren't sure what to get your man or your Dad, I would highly recommend this for a man who likes his coffee!

Tervis Tumblers

Looking for a Graduation present? Father's Day? Birthday? These are AWESOME gifts. My sister gave my husband and I Tervis Tumblers with our respective colleges on them and we love them. He loves them because they are big. I love them because they are dishwasher safe and they don't sweat (ie no rings!). Very importantly, they fit in my cupholder in my car. They are guaranteed for life, too.

Tervis tumblers are available in colleges, professional sports teams, many different animals, ..loads of themes. You can even have them personalized with names or messages. They come in all sizes, colors, and styles. Tervis tumblers aren't just cups...they are awesome and durable cups. Fantastic gifts, party favors, outdoor use. These are great for tailgating, too! Look no further. I guarantee you will love them. Click here to purchase, or if you need more choices, see Tervis Tumblers.

Graduation gifts...check!

Richard Bramble

I have a well-known love of dishes. My husband probably wasn't completely aware of it until post-wedding day, but he should have been when I registered for three sets of dishes and 2 sets of crystal. I just love dishes. He finally came to the realization when he hauled a set of dishes all over Cabo San Lucas. I fell in love with them in the market and didn't realize until after we purchased them that they would not be accepted as cargo on our airplane. Oops! We spent a day traipsing across the town trying to get them shipped to the US. I think, in addition to that set, I have purchased 2 more sets of dishes since then. There's just something about dishes. My mom would agree...I keep telling my husband that my mom enabled my dish obsession.

I have made a new discovery and am thinking this might be my new set to work toward. Richard Bramble is an English contemporary artist.

"In 2000 he embarked on a new creative direction with a commission from Jersey Pottery to create a range of pottery with a seafood theme. Fruits de Mer is the delightful result, featuring Richard's distinctive
watercolors of Lobster, Fish, Crabs, Mussels & Scallops. ...Richard does personal research on his subjects."

His art is so pretty and colorful having even one piece of his pottery would be a treat. He makes platters, bowls, plates, mugs, place mats, even aprons! Any of these would be great gifts for the fish and game lover in your life.

I love his Fruits de Mer pottery and I also love his newest, Game Birds. There are limited locations to find his pottery in the States, but I have discovered him in Tomball, TX and one location on-line. Check out these sites. If you love the sea or wildlife, you will surely love his art and his pottery.

Sand and Water Table

We are so excited about this Sand and Water Table. My boys love to play with trucks, sand, and water, so this is the perfect outdoor toy for them. My mom has a really cool sand and water table that my boys play with for hours. However, the construction vehicle table takes the cake.

The kids love the trucks and crane and sand and water. I love that it goes outside! (Total excitement for me when a new toy does not take up room in the already stuffed toy closet.) I also love that it has an umbrella to protect them from the sun and it even comes with a lid to cover the table when not in use.

For my family, this is a no-brainer for good summer entertainment. Considering the hours that will be consumed at this table, the price is definitely worth it.

Check it out! You won't be disappointed...

All-Clad Griddle

I briefly mentioned this All-Clad Nonstick Double Burner Griddle back around Christmastime. However, a brief mention doesn't do this baby justice. I never thought it would be possible to love a griddle. I love my griddle.

#1- It's All-Clad, which is a highly reputable brand so you know you are getting a good quality product.

#2- It's non-stick. Praise the Lord for non-stick (in certain circumstances)

#3- It has a sizable "gutter," if you will, for extra grease to drain while cooking and a small spout on the corner for draining the grease when necessary.

#4- It uses double burners...you don't have to, but you can!

#5- I can make bacon, sausage, eggs, pancakes at lightening speed because SO much fits on there at once.

I use this griddle AT LEAST once or twice a week. I do have a growing house full of boys, but when out-of-town guests are here, it is certain to be used and definitely in the breakfast hours. It is so easy to clean (huge bonus) and mine still looks brand new after having it almost 6 years! If you or your loving chef doesn't have one of these, you need this one. This is even a fantastic gift for anyone you know who cooks. It might be too late for Mother's Day, but it's a great Father's Day gift if you have a pancake-cookin', bacon-sizzlin', sausage-flippin' husband. You will thank me and love it and you will surely spread the word as well.

In addition, Cooking.com is an awesome website. Click below to peruse the website or just buy your griddle!

Shutterfly Snapbooks

I love these Shutterfly Snapbooks for any occasion, including Mother's Day...for moms, grandmother's, mother's-in-law. I even gave one to my husband and the grandfathers for Father's Day one year.

They come in 4x6 or 5x7, but I like to make them in 4x6 so they can fit in a purse or bag and be used as a brag book. The price varies based on how many pictures you put in your book, but you can put up to 50 pictures in a book. Shutterfly allows you to put captions on each picture if you choose and you can choose from several styles of books.

I know my husband loved having it at his desk at work.

I ordered mine for Mother's Day gifts and received it in just a few days...great gift, thoughtful, personal and easy to make! (and Grandmothers love them!)

Click the link below and search for "Snap Books" to make your own!

Radio Flyer All-Terrain Wagon

How in the world have I missed bragging on this one? Our Radio Flyer All-Terrain Wagon is one of the favorites in our household. My parents gave this to my oldest when he was little. Little did they know that it would be tough as nails for years to come with (almost) two more boys! The boys love it because it is a wagon, but what they don't know is that those all-terrain tires are what keep it moving through the yard, dirt piles, sand pits and all the cross-country activity they demand out of it. I love it because it really is tough as nails. That wagon has been used for so many activities that it probably never thought it would see and it is still strong and safe and kicking!

It may be on the higher end for prices, but Radio Flyer, of course, is an excellent brand. It is steel, so there is little harm that can come to it and the all-terrain tires keep it moving with a house of boys. It is worth every penny, as this wagon will be around for your children's grandchildren! The regular wagon is nice, but if you have boys, you know what I mean when I say that one was made for girls. The All-Terrain Wagon is a must for a house with kids who like to play hard outdoors. It's like the Hummer of wagons. Not to mention, you look tough playing with it, too!

God's Great Big Love for Me

This week I found this great book at our school's book fair. When I was in school and going to summer camp, everyone wore "Power Bracelets." In fact, my boys recently found a leather necklace I have had since high school with the colored beads of the power bracelet and a cross in the middle. They love wearing it. I keep intending to teach them what the beads stand for, but have simply not gotten around to it...until now!

This cute book by Max Lucado, God's Great Big Love for Me has done the job for me. Why should I re-invent that wheel? Not to mention, I love Max Lucado's books period. If you don't know the beads I am talking about, it is a leather band with a black, red, white, blue, green and yellow bead in that order. They stand respectively for sin, Jesus' blood, forgiveness, salvation, growth in God and riches in heaven. This book has the beads attached to the book at the top and after one night of reading it, my 5 year-old memorized their meanings. He loves it and begs for me to quiz him. It's a great way to show kiddos a tangible way to think about God's incredible love and grace while teaching them a very important Bible verse: John 3:16.

You will love this book for your family. It's a great conversation starter and it is written with great simplicity. Enjoy!

Handipoints Chore Charts

Calling all moms! A friend introduced me to this website and I love it. I have discovered that with a 5-year-old and almost 3-year-old they are very incented with just receiving a "check mark" at the end of the day for good deeds done. I have made many "chore charts" of my own, but was looking for something new and different. Handipoints has it!

It is free to sign up and you can create your own chore charts, good deeds chart, whatever you choose. There are pre-made assignments or you can customize to your needs. There is even an on-line point acquisition game if you choose to use it. I simply made my charts, printed them and laminated them (one for each child). Now, at the end of the day, both of my kids look forward to getting to use the erasable marker and make check marks for what they accomplished in the day. My oldest thrives on doing things all day long based on if I will let him have a check mark. At this point they want nothing more than the glory...until they realize they need something tangible, check marks it is!

If you are looking for a good way to organize your kid's day and help them complete certain tasks, go ahead and check out Handipoints!

Captain Rodney's Boucan Glaze

I mentioned in my personal blog that I made Captain Rodney's Dip for Easter brunch. I thought it only necessary to include you in the divine piece of heaven that this dip offers for you and your family...and friends, if they are so lucky. My mom always makes this at the lake, but the most important and highly sought after ingredient is Captain Rodney's Boucan Glaze. It is not easy to find in stores, but you can order off the Internet or find in boutique-y gourmet stores. It is so divine. It is so good, in fact, Santa found it necessary to put a bottle in my stocking last year. It is that kind of a good gift. However, it is a must to attach the recipe for the dip to the gift. It would be a sin not to. Order the glaze and make the dip and you will be loved by all.

Captain Rodney's Dip

½ cup mayonnaise
1 (8 oz.) block cream cheese, softened
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
6 chopped green onions
12 Ritz Crackers, crushed
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
½ cup Captain Rodney's Boucan Glaze

Mix mayonnaise, cream cheese, cheddar cheese and onions and place in a greased quiche pan. Top with crackers and bake at 350º for 15 minutes. Top with bacon and Boucan Glaze. Return to the oven for a few more minutes. Serve with Ritz crackers.

I cannot wait to hear how your first event goes with this dip. I might even recommend doubling the recipe if you have a crowd. Ahhhh....heaven.

Neova Eye Therapy

Another GREAT new product I have discovered! After only a few uses, I have seen a major difference in my skin. Introducing, Neova Eye Therapy. This is not just any eye cream, as with the other Neova products that I love, this one has the Copper Peptide Complex, all the rave in the world of beauty these days.

I was at my favorite salon the other day begging for assistance, as my skin has drastically changed since I have been expecting. While addressing my own obvious needs, Betty said, "You really should try this eye cream...it will help you with those dark circles under your eyes." What dark circles? I was thinking....until I looked in the mirror. These days, my body doesn't tend to be the top priority and so many things go unnoticed...including those dark circles, evidently.

I have had wonderful results with the Neova Moisturizer with Copper Peptides and the Neova Eye Therapy hasn't let me down and shows great promise. It was amazing. Almost immediately I could see the "glow" under my eyes instead of darker skin. There really is copper in there and it really affects the color of your skin. I am sold. I, however, need all the help I can get. How did I get so old looking? 3 babies? no sleep? stress? Couldn't be!

The Bella Band

Today, Sarah shares the Bella Band with us!

I have a favorite...The Bella Band… for pregnant women! If you don’t already have these and you are pregnant I STRONGLY suggest buying them in white, black and nude. Target has a knock-off with a much better price tag. They work great for wearing your own clothes longer, wearing the, oh so ugly over the belly maternity clothes when they no longer fit (God forbid), and squeezing back into your own clothes after giving birth.

These are so cool. And dare I say, even nice for all those "too short" shirts that need an extra layer underneath? I love the lace one, too! I just ordered 3 for my growing belly! Thanks, Sarah!

Wooden Blocks

Today Wendy tells us about one of her favorite baby gifts...

Here is a favorite of mine…Wooden blocks. I usually always do this for baby gifts and baptisms. They are completely custom, neutral, baby friendly and inexpensive. For under $20 you can let someone know that their special event is being acknowledged. Have always had RAVE reviews from the parents.

Thanks, Wendy! What a great and different idea for a baby gift. Check out their website, as there are other options for the blocks, as well.

Catstudio Pillows

I love Catstudio pillows. In fact, I have wanted one of these pillows for several years. They are a little pricey, but the hand embroidery is so cute and personal to each state or city pillow. My mom and I both love them so much that for Christmas, we gave each other the same gift...an embroidered pillow. After all the years of "want" we both finally gave it to each other at the same time.

They make pillows for each state, many of the big cities, countries and regions. This lady had the best prices and was so great to work with. While she only has the state pillows listed on her site, she will order whatever pillow you want and have it shipped directly to you.

In addition to pillows, Catstudio makes these designs in glasses, aprons, hand towels...fabulous for gifts! You will love them.

Go forth and buy yourself a pillow!

Hey, friends! I am trying! I am trying to get back in to the old habit with Penelope's Pitstop. I am so sorry for the long delay. I promise I would rather have been blogging than walking around in a nauseous state for the last couple months. Today's contributor comes from my Mom. I have heard her talk about this book several times and they LOVE it! Check it out.

Several years ago while on a long road trip, our good friends introduced us to the book, The Next Exit. It is the primo book of interstate highway exits and includes all the services you need, from food, hotel , gas to potty stops. It is almost vacation season and you will want this book to keep in your car. It is always fun to look ahead and plan your stops according to your needs or emergencies. We have marked all the Church's Fried Chicken places on the way to Houston for my husband who is addicted.

What a great gift for any traveller in your life. It's fun and different! Hope you enjoy it...Thanks, Mom!

Thank you.

Thank you so much, everyone, for your sweet notes, comments and encouragement. I miss my blogs terribly. Unfortunately, when I sit on the computer, the nausea hits. We are going to Disney World next week...yahoo and I hope I feel better by then! So, my plan is to be back in full force upon our return. Don't give up on me, yet.

Penelope

Hello, my friends. Please don't think I have forsaken my blog. Penelope is morning sick, afternoon sick and evening sick these days. :) For some reason the good news doesn't feel so good right now, but give me some time and The Pitstop will be back to its old self. Thanks for your understanding!

Ear Tunes

Today's contributor is from Aubree. These look pretty cool!

I have something for Penelope's Pitstop...Eartunes. Cause we love them. About 2 Christmases ago, my Granny got a pair for Gavin. And I thought they were weird. But, then I have since discovered they are ingenious! My kids and husband have extremely small ears- and well, most kinds of headphones/ earphones/ earbuds don't fit ANY kid's ears. Which is why you have to endure hearing whatever it is they are doing on Leapster or DS or DVD. Eartunes are a hat with earphones built in...and I just ordered a new hat for Grayce in pink. They would never keep the earphones on before because they were uncomfortable, and the earbud types would just keep falling out. We think they are a great invention.

What a great invention. Upon further research, I discovered another brand, iXoundWear, that makes solid colored ski hats, visors and ball caps for men, women, and children. I'm thinking I really like the cap or visor for my nano when I work out! Check out the Penelope's Pitstop store for all colors and styles. Thanks, Aubree!

Bumpy Name Orbit Labels

Here is another great idea from Wendy M. Check them out!

These I use ALL the time. I have them on the boys water bottles for school, sports, car. When they were little this how they could tell their stuff apart and learned to read/spell their name as well as their siblings. Also great for allergy alerts!

There were so many great suggestions in the product description, I just decided to paste it here:

"The Original Orbit Label ® is every parent’s solution for labeling bottles, sippy cups, snack containers and other various drink/toiletry containers. This innovative product is non-adhesive, reusable and personalized to meet your needs. These dishwasher and microwave safe orbit labels are awesome! The orbit labels are sure to make any parent's life simpler! No more "permanent" markers that wash away in the dishwasher. No more sticky labels that fade, peel, or leave sticky residue. These labels are easy to use - just stretch and release for a snug fit around a variety of containers. BumpyName orbit labels are an ideal gift for baby showers and toddler birthdays and a must-have for pre-school and daycare. BumpyName orbit labels were invented by a mom. They were designed to fit the traditional 4oz. baby bottle and can stretch to accommodate the needs of a child's changing drink container. These labels fit all sippy cups and a variety of sport bottles. They can be interchanged being that they are non-adhesive and reusable - what a great change from the traditional method of one-time use sticky labels! BumpyName orbit labels are also great for labeling shampoos and toiletry containers for camp and college bound kids. They are a great gift idea for any age!"

Being a camp girl, myself, I LOVE the idea for putting these on items sent to camp with the kiddos...A great gift for all ages!! Thanks again, Wendy!

Safety Tats

This are the most clever things, ever! I love them! My friend, Wendy M., suggested these and her idea for amusement parks, malls, the zoo, etc is fantastic. They can be pre-printed or you can purchase write-on tattoos. Love this, Moms!


These are great to put on your kids for field trips or vacation. Ideal for some place like Disney! I also suggested to the school they get them with the school # on them for field trips. Even great for older kids – they might be freaked out when they get lost and get confused on their phone number. Also great for allergy alerts.

You really must check this website out. They have quick-stick tattoos for medical alerts, allergies, phone numbers. What a great idea...and the kids think they are cool, too! Thanks, Wendy! Click the link below...

Cordless Keyboard and Mouse

I was trying to think of things that I take for granted this morning and my Cordless Laser Mouse and Keyboard were the first things that popped into my head. Call me a nerd, call me what you may, but they changed my life at my computer. Yes, it is probably considered a luxury, but I am a mother. I take the stance that anything that simplifies and adds efficiency is worth it--right?

Babe bought a Logitech Cordless Keyboard and Laser Mouse for me almost 2 years ago when our original keyboard died. I thought it was silly at first, but now, I am in love. The best part would be the mouse. It is cordless, so I don't get it hung on stray items on my desk. The laser light on the mouse doesn't even compare to a tracking ball on a regular mouse. The precision is great and you don't have to move the mouse around to get the ball in the right spot.

As for the keyboard, there are no cords or mess to get tangled. I can lean back and put my keyboard in my lap or move it so the boys can reach it from an angle. I love it. I love anything without a cord. Cords are just messy.

Yes, this is a luxury. But it is not an over-the-top luxury. Once you try it, you won't go back. I promise.

Enamelware Basin

For the love of all things, I must REALLY love this stuff, as I have been searching the internet for two hours (on a Mother's Day Out day, no less) trying to find the best place to buy an enamelware basin. My love of enamelware began when I spotted my Dad's new popcorn bowl. It was metal and the speckled red stuff you see at country stores and the like. However, I grew to like it and then to love it. I have been on a desperate search for the perfect enamelware bowl to put my popcorn in. It is not so easy to find. Until this Christmas. My mom gave me exactly what I wanted. It was red "marbled" and big and open. It's the perfect popcorn bowl and perfect for many other purposes as well.

While trying to find a good spot for you to purchase one yourself, I discovered the great selection of enamelware products. They make dishes, mugs, bowls, plates, appetizer tray, pitchers. While it is growing in fashion these days, (Pottery Barn has their own version) they are just like what you might take on a camping trip. Easy to wash and use and highly functional.

My mom discovered in her search that the bowl we wanted was actually called a "basin". If you buy this bowl, you won't be disappointed. I am offically starting a new outdoor dining collection. When we moved, donated all my plastic stuff....out with the old and in with the new!

I am thinkin' the appetizer tray looks pretty cute, too!

Cookie Press

Helllloooo! I apologize for taking an unexpected break over the holidays. I was so consumed with cooking and house guests and Christmas that I just had to take a break from the blogging world. I decided to turn the school holiday into my blogging holiday. It was great, but I am back.

I really wanted to put this up before Christmas and I didn't. However, you can have it for Super Bowl Cheese Straws or Valentine's Spritz cookies. Good practice before next Christmas. The Cookie Press is a staple in the kitchen's of the women in my family. I can't remember a Christmas without Spritz cookies or Cheese Straws...two very diverse and delicious recipes.

The key to finding a good cookie press is finding one with a metal handle. I will admit the cookie press I have is the old-fashioned kind. I searched high and low for my exact press and I can't find it on-line. My handle is made of metal and it twists to give you the ultimate torque. You really need that extra help sometimes when twisting the dough out of the tip. The plastic handles tend to be flimsy and breakable. However, I did find one that has a metal handle that was rated high. It doesn't twist, but it doesn't look fragile. The press comes with all the plates to make every size and shape of cookie you could want. The metal ones are more expensive, but worth every penny when you break your plastic one and have to buy another....

So, get this now. You won't regret it for a second. And your family will love you for the yummy recipes you will make.

Cocoa Connoisseur

Today's Pitstop contributor is from my sweet friend, Liz. She met this vendor at The Woodlands Holiday Market. If you like chocolate I suggest you listen up!

I wanted to tell you about the Cocoa Connoisseur. I talked to this girl each day at Market - Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. She was my favorite vendor. She has STUDIED all different kinds of Hot Chocolate and sells the neatest flavors from all over the world. I bought a spicy hot chocolate kind from Mexico. It is delicious! It is called Mocafe Mexican Spiced Cocoa. She also sells the most delicious marshmallows which are called Plush Puffs. I tried the Vanilla Bean flavor - it was a treat. And, I bought the Cinnamon Sugar Marshmallow package. These marshmallows are like nothing you have seen before - 2 inch squares and they are AWESOME!!

I met this woman, as well, and she was fabulous...along with her expertise in chocolate. She knows her chocolate for sure. I highly recommend perusing her site for some last minute Christmas chocolate stocking stuffers! Delish! Thanks, Liz, for sharing.

What God Wants for Christmas

Today's Pitstop contributor is my new friend, Wendy A. This looks so cute!

One of my favorite things is a book set called "What God Wants for Christmas." My girls love it. It has little gift boxes along with a manger scene to go with the book. It's a great way for children to learn the Christmas story and a great tradition to start. My 4 year-old took it to school last year and told the story along with her teacher. Her teacher had a fit over it and bought herself one before I could buy her one for Christmas.

I am always looking for a fun way to teach the boys about the true meaning of Christmas. This looks like a lot of fun. Thanks so much for sharing, Wendy!

Interview on 5 Minutes for Mom

Hello, friends! Just wanted to share my interview with you from "5 Minutes for Mom." I forgot that I had done this last summer when I first started Penelope's Pitstop. They just published it recently...enjoy!
http://www.5minutesformom.com/our-readers-blogs/1111/penelopespitstop/

Land of Nod

For those of you who don't know, Land of Nod, is the kid's version of Crate and Barrel. Such cute things from this store....

Like this art jar...full of fun art projects to do on a rainy day.Cute growth charts. I love giving these as baby gifts. Great for longevity and/or for someone who is having theird second or third baby...Cute holiday puppets... LOVE the 12 days of Christmas ornaments... (at Crate and Barrel, too!)
Darling Christmas tree skirt. (lots of the Christmas decor is already on sale and/or free shipping!) Land of Nod has cute bedding, decor, gifts, toys...so many cute things. So, click below and check them out!

Rummikub

I love to play games and I really like playing games with our family. Now, I am to the stage of Christmas shopping where I must find a good game for a late night competition. Rummikub keeps taking the cake in my mind. We had some friends teach us their version of Rummikub which made for a very fun night. It is a fun slant on Gin Rummy, but with tiles. We used two boxes of Rummikub tiles (that's 2 games) with 8 people. The whole waiting for each person to go really slows the game down and makes it boring. Instead we all go at once. It is like a massive game of Nertz or Speed for you card players out there. You really have to be quick and watch the whole table constantly. It was an absolute riot.

While the best game would be with all adults, if you have kids elementary and up, they should be able to catch on. Watch out though, your competitive spirit is sure to rear its head. So, great game for the family over Christmas, especially if you are about to get a winter storm and are going to be stuck inside for a long time. (So I hear for Oklahoma.) You will want to play over and over....and over! Good Luck!

Table Topics

When I was in high school, we had a dear friend who kept a list of 20 questions in his pocket. He used these questions as "Get-to-know-you" questions. His 20 questions expanded in to hundreds and it was one of my favorite games to play with my friends. A real excuse to ask questions and get to know someone better.

Table Topics is just about the same thing. Table Topics comes in several different subjects including, The Original, Teen, Family, Couples, Travel to Go topics. They also have Girls Night Out, Spiritual, Right or Wrong and Family Gathering. Just think about all the questions in those boxes! Great for parties, family nights, etc. Each subject comes in a handy little box with one question per card. It is such a fun way to start conversation and a fantastic stocking stuffer for all ages.

Be careful. You never know where the conversation might lead!

The Company Store

Yet another one of my favorite places to shop is The Company Store. It also has a kids version called Company Kids. SO many cute things all year long. They originally just had any and all sorts of bedding. They have since expanded to gifts, apparel and holiday decor. Here are a few cute things I found today. The perk is that many of the Christmas items are already on sale! Wow!

For the dog lover in your life, how cute are these slippers?Do you need stockings? Their selection of cute stockings is great...

Aren't these cute cup towels? The "Ho Ho Ho" and "Fa La La" are so cute. A great gift!

I know I often go for the sports items, but I have boys. My boys would go nutso over these cool bean bag chairs... What a fun Santa gift!

I don't know about your kids, but mine love puppets. I can almost guarantee don't have a praying mantis puppet as cool as this one! Again, Santa....especially if your child loves bugs!

Santa Aprons. In fact, I saw these recently and the "Santa's Helper" apron is just as cute without monogramming and would be cute for a boy, too. Again, my 4 year-old chef would love this.

Look at these Adirondack chairs! A pirate and dump truck. They also have mermaids and princesses, but I thought these were the cutest. These would look darling on your porch or in your back yard...

Lastly, I know Halloween is not on your mind. However, these cute globes are such a good deal, I had to put them up. Usually they are $12 each. Now, they are $2.99. Definitely worth the investment for next Halloween!

Hop you enjoy the shopping. As usual, just click below to link to The Company Store and shop shop shop!

Cooking.com

I have a new favorite website and Cooking.com is it! I already have an obsession with the kitchen...appliances, tools, cleaners, pots and pans, food! I love everything about the kitchen. I recently discovered Cooking.com and I absolutely love it. Here a few great gift ideas...to give OR to receive!

Do you have one of these? If you love garlic as much as I do and you don't have one, then it's a must. The purpose...to remove the skin from the garlic clove. Simply remove a garlic clove from the head, put it in this tube and roll it back and forth a couple times. Voila! The garlic is naked! :) Save some time and save your fingernails the work...a very inexpensive and excellent stocking stuffer. IN fact, I received this in my stocking one year!
I LOVE this little cuties. Yet another stuffer I received in my stocking. Baby measuring cups that measure teaspoons and tablespoons. Great for measuring multiple tablespoons at a time. And besides, they are just cute!
Oh, how I sing praises to my griddle. I actually bought this for my pancake-preparing husband our first Christmas. However, I have taken it over. I use it ALL. THE. TIME. It is worth every penny to have one of these griddles. It covers 2 burners and I can cook bacon, sausage, eggs, and even pancakes in lightening speed when I have house guests for breakfast. The All-Clad style is very important, as the gutter on the side is deep and very useful. My mom has another brand and has griddle-envy for my griddle.
This is definitely a luxury item, but YUMMY fondue. I have this exact pot, but it broke in my recent move. However, I JUST replaced it and am so excited to find a new fondue recipe for Christmas entertaining. I live for cheese fondue, but this pot can handle cheese, meat, and chocolate with its ceramic insert. A high quality pot for sure.
If you see my 4-year-old chef, don't tell him, but Santa is bringing this to him this year. We love Powlllla in our house and I am excited to cook with him and his new cookbook.
As you can see, Cooking.com has fantastic products and plenty of deals on orders and shipping. There is so much more than I can even touch on my blog. So, click below and get shopping...and cooking! Merry Christmas!

Amazon.com

Pitstop Shoppers! I put a link to Amazon.com in the upper left hand column for you today. If there is anything from Amazon you would like to buy for Christmas or anything else, just click on my link. Penelope's Pitstop gets the credit, of course, but better yet the shipping deals are excellent on Amazon. The more I use Amazon.com, the more I discover that most items are cheaper there and almost all of the items qualify for "Super Saver Shipping" (aka FREE shipping). This means you shop from your computer, never leave the house and get great deals plus free shipping on SO MANY THINGS! After all, this is the purpose of Penelope's Pitstop and the basis on which it began. Get shopping and free shipping. Merry Christmas!

Fontanini Nativity Scene

If you are in the market for a Nativity set, Fontanini is fabulous. I received my Fontanini Creche and figures as wedding gifts and I absolutely love them. (And I know who gave me every one!)They aren't too ornate or too plain and they are beautiful. What I didn't know when I chose them was how wonderful they were for kids. My boys flock to the Manger when it is time to put out the Christmas decorations. Every day, I find the animals and the people in somewhat weird positions. Maybe a cow on the roof or Baby Jesus climbing the ladder... My two year old begs every night as he is getting tucked in, "Baby! Baby!" He wants to sleep with the Baby Jesus. I don't worry at all when they play with any part of the Nativity set, as the figures are durable and fun to pretend with. All this, while learning the Christmas Story. A necessity in anyone's household during the holidays.

Your options for purchasing are endless. They offer sets, or you can buy each piece individually. This is a great gift idea that someone can contribute to every Christmas or birthday. I put the basic pieces in the Penelope's Pitstop Store. When I say endless, Fontanini makes hundreds of figures that can go in your manger scene, or better yet, a town if you are a big collector. So, check them out. Here's to Fontanini!

Sensational Beginnings

Sensational Beginnings is one of my favorite toy catalogs that we receive. They always have new and different toys that you don't always see in stores. When I woke up this morning, our latest Sensational Beginnings catalog had been covered front-to-back by my 4 year-old son with circles. More circles than I could count and definitely more toys than our house can hold. However, here are a few of his favorite things that look pretty cool to me, too.

A super cool garage...

An ATM bank. How cool is that? It counts your money coming in and out and keeps track like a bank account...

This really fun Marble Factory...I see hours of entertainment out of this one.

A cash register. I remember having a cash register (the old-timey kind) in my Kindergarten class room and it was where everyone wanted to be. There is just something about a cash register. This one is educational...teaches how to use money, etc. It also has a scale and a conveyor belt. Top that!In his dreams. Unfortunately, this ice-skating rink, as great of an idea as it is, won't find much use in Texas. But, for you cold-country folks, this looks like lots of fun for the back yard in the winter!My 2 year-old squealed when he saw this bad boy. Visions of dirt were dancing in his head!Clearly, this is something the mom in me added. Art frames that open without taking them off the wall. I love this! An easy way to hang the kids art without the hassle of taking it on and off the wall.Sensational Beginnings has thousands of great toys. Click on the link below and get some holiday shopping out of the way today!

Gift Stickers

We've covered the Christmas cards and the return address labels. Now, it's time for my favorite, the gift sticker. The sticker is so great, as there is need to sign a sticker or gift card. Remember the old days of cutting out a square of wrapping paper and making a "To/From" label. Gone are those days!

This year I have kicked the bows on my packages and I am simply wrapping a ribbon around the package and seal it with my gift sticker. It's so cute and so very easy. Here is the sticker I bought this year....I am using parchment paper (cute and cheap at the Dollar Store!) a cute ribbon and seal it with my sassy zebra sticker.

I bought this sticker a couple years ago. It was really fun, as you get to choose all the attributes of each person in your family...down to the dog and cat! Hair color, style, clothes, shoes, accessories...

And a few other cute ones...

For my neighbors, I am making some sort of goodie and all I have to do is wrap it with Saran and slap a sticker on there and voila! It looks very professional. I found these stickers at my favorite, The Stationary Studio. You can also find them at The Invitation Box, too! (Click on "The Invitation Box" in the left column.)

So hup to it. Save yourself some time, add a little sass and a whole lot of cute to your Christmas packages!

Veggie Tales Store

Who knew there was an on-line Veggie Tales store? My boys love the Veggie Tales. If I must admit, I discovered the Veggie Tales more than 10 years ago when I was in graduate school. I didn't hear about it from kids, but from "Big Kids"...adults that were watching them. The best thing about Veggie Tales movies is that they not only speak to kids, but they have adult humor in them as well. They are hilarious. I never get tired of hearing the songs on the movies or the CD's. Of course, the benefits are that the kids are hearing true stories from the Bible in a fun way. I just can't say enough about how much we love the Veggie Tales.

Since the old days of just movies, Veggie Tales has come out with some really great products. I bought this book several years ago for my oldest son. He loves it so much, he carries it around and calls it his Bible.

Just this week I bought these 2 books that are awesome for a little family time. The Family Devotional is exactly that. Very easy to read, on the children's level and spelled out for you to spend time with your little ones each day teaching them valuable lessons. Bible Mania is filled with amazing facts about the Bible. I found myself in awe as I flipped through the book. Excellent trivia questions in there, too! Seriously, it's not just for kids. We could all benefit :)

You just can't go wrong with the DVD's. Like I mentioned before, I think they are a hoot and I really enjoy watching them with my kids (unlike several other kids shows). This is a great set of Christmas stories that teach your kids the true meaning of Christmas.

I bought these little guys as stocking stuffers. I couldn't pass them up. After you get to know "Bob the Tomato" and "Larry the Cucumber" you sort of become endeared to them. Admit it! Is there any other mom out there that thinks they are as cute as I do?

Check out the website below. There is so much to see. It goes back to my philosophy with toy buying this Christmas... I might as well buy something that is teaching my kids something new and something good.

If you haven't ever seen or heard of the Veggie Tales, it really is a must. Stick a DVD in your kids' stocking this year. It will be well worth the espense.

Sambucol

I have discovered a miracle. I interrupt the holiday shopping season to tell every mother out there that has consistently sick children that I have discovered a gift from God. I was recently talking to a nutritionist about my own health and half-hazardly mentioned that my 2-year-old has been in a vicious cycle for....2 years. Runny nose. Wait a month. Infection. Antibiotics. Wait two weeks. Runny nose. Wait a month. Infection..... It is ridiculous.

This man said he had the cure! He introduced me to Sambucol. I was skeptical, but hopeful. I am not one to jump on with any product thrown my way (especially with my kiddos involved), but he knew what he was talking about with my health, so I trusted him on this one, too. He told me if I wanted to give him something prophylactically, then give him 1 tsp of Sambucol a day. If I wanted to wait until he was sick, give him 1 tsp of Sambucol 3 times a day the minute I noticed drainage or coughing, etc. Of course, he was already sick, so I started with the 3 times a day. Overnight success! Now, I became lax when he was feeling better, but not "well" and his symptoms would return. Once we did that yo-yo routine for a week or so, I stuck to the routine and my youngest is well for the first time in his life sans antibiotics. It is truly a miracle.

What is IN the stuff you might ask? It is made of Black Elderberries and it is an Immune System Booster. The best part about it, you can take it, too! Get well for the holidays and get some Sambucol. Our life has changed.

You have to see it to believe it.

(P.S. I am discovering that most everything I blog about is cheaper at Amazon.com, thus why I link to their site via my store so regularly. Most items have free shipping, too. Again, this is the case. I bought Sambucol last week for $24.00 and here it is $10.99 for the same size bottle. What a deal!)