We all know them as bobble heads and have seen them in many movies but this iconic item as become the new preferred stocking stuffer and office gift for many.  Now bosley bobber characters range from Teddy Roosevelt to Jesse Jackson and even Jesus.

We love these items because they fall under the $20 gift mark with a price of around $13-$15, plus they look really cool on a desk.

Another neat thing about Bosley Bobbers is that they take custom orders.  Now we have no idea what order size you need to place a custom order, but don’t plan on calling Bosley and asking for a one-off for a gift. However, if you have a specialty store that has regional interest (sports teams, schools, etc.) this might just work for you. 

Bosley says that they search for the lowest price on their runs so if you’re interested give them a call.

If it’s too late for a holiday gift, get ready for birthday gifts in 2009.  View bobbers here.

You can contact Bosley Bobbers at:

Bosley Bobbers
330-875-3105 

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Many  people take eyebrows for granted but when you think about it, when you’re out and you see someone with penciled, absent, or tattooed eyebrows, it’s very obvious.

The Tyra Banks Show helped Kelley with an eyebrow restoration from Bosley Medical.  Bosley has been doing permanent hair restoration since 1974.  Eyebrow restoration is the obvious evolution of their follicular unit transplantation from scalp hair restoration.

Permanent eyebrow restoration is perfect for completely restoring brow hair or achieving fuller, more natural brow lines.

Although Kelley was born with little brow hair, others overpluck until their eyebrows are thin or thinning. Overplucking can cause the brow hair to not grow back.

The video below tells Kelley’s story on the Tyra Banks Show.

For more information on Eyebrow restoration, permanent eyebrows, thin and thinning eyebrows contact:

Bosley Medical
1-800-985-6405 
or click here for information on free consultations 

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Every Winter, Central Ohio is hit with unpredictable weather and frequent snowstorms that clog streets and disrupt local businesses.  In our current economy, a slowdown in business due to snow accumulation is not something business owners can afford.

Cities are responsible for clearing the streets but they are obviously not going to clear commercial lots.  If your lot is not clear, customers will go elsewhere but it’s not just about your lot being clear, it’s about having it clear before your competition does.  When consumers have a choice between 2 competing commercial centers, one without snow removal and the other completely clear, they obviously head to the clear lot.

A recent poll showed that 60% of consumers are making efforts to move to smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles. This trend is great for conservation and savings but the lack of snow-capable SUV’s will have a definitive impact on businesses that are not prepared.

If you’re a business owner in Central Ohio, working to maintain cash flow, here are a few tips that will help this Winter when the weather is not cooperating:

1.  Let people know you’re open.  This may seem obvious but many retail stores are closed or in the process of closing.  If you’re open, let the signs show it.

2.  On days where weather is difficult, give your customers a reason to stick around.  Create a warm environment and differentiate your business from the competition.

3.  Open the door for your customers.  We’ve seen a bank chain start opening the door for all customers.  It’s a nice gesture particularly when a customer is coming in from the cold.

4.  Keep your walks clear of snow and ice.

5.  Make sure entry from the street to your lot and to your door is completely clear of snow BEFORE your competition.

A few little changes can make a big difference for businesses in Central Ohio.

For commercial snow removal our community pick is:

M.A. Souders, Inc.
Call (614) 875-3122
 

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Many people at some point in their lives either experience some degree of  hair loss or know someone losing their hair. 

In men the primary cause of hair loss is a hormone called DHT (dihydrotesterone).  This hormone causes hair follicles to shrink, which in turn makes hair thinner, eventually falling out completely.  When a hair follicle has closed, it cannot be reopened. 

Genetics play a large role in the sensitivity to this hormone and resulting hair loss.  Genetics come from both mother and father, can skip generations and is completely random. 

There are available solutions depending on the extent of hair loss.  These solutions range from the new Bosley LaserComb® to the only permanent hair restoration solution, hair transplantation. 

To better understand the causes of hair loss and available solutions, schedule a free consultation with a Bosley Senior Counselor.  After meeting with a Senior Counselor you’ll also have the opportunity to discuss options available to you with a Bosley physician. 

Even with new technology and available solutions, it’s still a good idea to take basic care of your hair to keep it healthy.  Here are a few basic steps you can take: 

1. Wash your hair daily.  It is possible for hair follicles to become clogged with oils.  When hair follicles are clogged the growth of hair will slow.  Bosley Volumizing Shampoo will not only create thicker, fuller hair but will also help to remove follicle blocking oils.
2. Condition 5 minutes per day.  A quality conditioner will help to maintain moisture in your hair, preventing splitting and breakage.  Bosley Volumizing conditioner builds strength and makes hair shiny without weighing it down.
3. Consider a Bosley LaserComb®.  The Bosley LaserComb® received clearance from the FDA in February, 2007 as the only medical device to promote hair growth.  This medical device delivers laser energy to the hair follicle causing revitalization and a general strengthening of the hair.  The Bosley LaserComb® may increase blood flow and circulation to the scalp, which promotes healthy hair growth by way of nutrient delivery and disposal of waste products. 

 The Bosley LaserComb® can be very effective when used after a Bosley permanent hair restoration procedure.  Talk with your Bosley Physician about a complete and permanent hair restoration solution and treatment plan. 

To learn more on healthy products for your hair visit www.bosleymedical.com or the Bosley Store.

For more information on the causes of hair loss, available solutions, how to stop balding and begin hair restoration order our free DVD or schedule a free consultation in your area with a Bosley Senior Counselor.

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2225 Plaza Parkway
Modesto, CA  95350
p.  (209) 523-0000

Sign up for email club promotions

The holidays inspire creativity and I’m always looking for fun activities to do with the kids.  Craft ideas are endless and you can find more than you’ll ever need on the internet!  We have our favorites that we do each year, and then we like to find new crafts to add to our creative collection.  Today we started our countdown to Christmas paper chain.  We also enjoy using materials from nature, such as pine cones, for projects.  One idea I found on the Family Fun website was making a pine cone bird feeder as a way to remember the animals.  There’s a lovely story you can read together called the Night Tree, as well.  

Many families are looking for ways to bring the focus back to togetherness and simplicity.  Instead of buying a lot of presents, we’re looking for ideas of handmade gifts we can make together.  Spending the time to make a gift for a loved one is very special and teaches children to focus on the act of giving rather than buying something.  Particularly in a tough economy where most everyone is trying to find ways to save money, it’s great to get back to the basics and focus on what truly matters.  For example, I recently learned how to knit and am very excited to be able to make a gift for everyone in my family!  I’m just a beginner, so they’ll all be getting scarves; however, each person will know that I took the time to make something for them and each time they wear their scarf to keep warm they will remember me.  Keep in mind, when you receive a handmade gift, especially from the kids, it’s the thought that counts!  So be sure to put that gift on display or to good use to show them how much their thoughtfulness and generosity is treasured.  

For ideas that are age-appropriate, I do a Google search to find Christmas gifts the kids can make.  Have the kids choose what they’d like to make and then supply them with the materials they need and any assistance they may require.  I typically like to make a list of supplies we need, check the house for what we already have, and then head over to a craft store such as Michael’s or JoAnn’s for anything we’re missing.  Don’t forget to bring along your coupons!!  When the children have finished their gifts, help them wrap their presents in an extra special way.  

Our playgroup likes to get together to make holiday crafts and gifts.  With children ranging from babies to school-aged children, we need a place where we can set out activities for varying age ranges and have all of our needs met – food, bathrooms, and enough space to work on handmade gifts!  Whether you plan to go to someone’s house, the park, or a child-friendly eatery make a list of what you need to bring and get everyone to pitch in so you’re not responsible for everything yourself as this can be overwhelming.  If you’re thinking about choosing an indoor location, John’s Incredible Pizza Co. would be a great venue!  John’s has several eating rooms with lots of tables to set up crafts and activities.  The food is great and will keep kids and moms satisfied.  When you’re done with your holiday activities, clean-up is easy, and you can let the kids run around on the Fun World side.  There are rides and games appropriate for every age level, and even an enclosed baby and toddler area.  If you’re looking for low-stress and minimal work, this is the way to go.    

What we love about John’s Incredible Pizza:

1.  The All-you-can-eat-buffet of pizza, pasta, salad, dessert and fountain drinks 

2.  Beer and wine are available at an additional charge with a two drink limit

3.  Multiple themed rooms about the size of a standard restaurant that will take care of any mood you may be in

4.  Rides, fun and games that are relevant for very young ones all the way up to adults

5.  Fun promotions you can sign up for here

John’s Incredible Pizza Co.
2225 Plaza Parkway
Modesto, CA  95350
p.  (209) 523-0000

Sign up for email club promotions

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John’s Incredible Pizza Co.
2225 Plaza Parkway
Modesto, CA  95350
p.  (209) 523-0000

Sign up for email club promotions

The holiday season is the perfect time to get parents thinking about establishing family traditions, or continuing special traditions from years, and even generations past.  The act of establishing family traditions is an important and meaningful one.  Families, especially children, need traditions.  The main benefits of family traditions are providing children with a predictable routine, giving families the opportunity to reconnect, forming a family identity whereby a sense of belonging is created, and instilling a sense of the family’s value system.  In short, you are creating a strong family unit that will be the foundation for your children’s futures.  

The best way to establish family traditions is to get everyone involved.  Kids love the opportunity to participate in the decision-making process and know that their opinions matter.  To get the ball rolling, you may want to start off with some of your own suggestions (FamilyFun.com is a great site, as well as searching the web for ideas other people have posted.  For example, one family I read about started a tradition of bowling with the entire family on Thanksgiving.   

Now while you may not picture your own family down at the bowling alley on Thanksgiving Day, your own family will choose traditions that represent your own unique rhythm and needs.  Whether you bake a special meal together, set aside time to go for a walk or play games as a family, or find a way to help others in your community -you’re strengthening your familial bond.  

And who knows, you may find that your clan is ready to break tradition and head over to your local fun center to let loose and enjoy your time without the usual preparations of a formal Thanksgiving meal.  If you’re looking for a place where everyone in the family (and extended family) can let their hair down and have loads of fun together, John’s Incredible Pizza Co. may be right up your alley.  Not only do they have indoor glow golf, they also have bumper cars, laser tag and so many other games and rides to choose from that the whole gang will have fun playing together and creating happy memories.  Be sure to sign up online for their email club to get money saving coupons, discounts and promotions.  A Thanksgiving promotion is going on now, so be sure to sign up and check your local John’s Pizza for hours of operation. 

We’re more of a traditional family and will stay home to celebrate Thanksgiving Day with our family, however, a week off with the kids means that I’m going to need to get out with the kids for some fun time.  Honestly, getting the house cleaned up and preparing a feast is quite an undertaking, and in an effort to keep it that way, we’re planning a night before Thanksgiving outing to give Mom a break and the kids an opportunity to run wild and use up all that extra energy!

Here’s the top 5 reasons we think John’s Pizza is perfect this holiday season:

1.  The All-you-can-eat-buffet of pizza, pasta, salad, dessert and fountain drinks 

2.  Beer and wine are available at an additional charge with a two drink limit

3.  Multiple themed rooms about the size of a standard restaurant that will take care of any mood you may be in

4.  Rides, fun and games that are relevant for very young ones all the way up to adults

5.  Fun promotions you can sign up for here

Your Thanksgiving break community pick:

John’s Incredible Pizza Co.
2225 Plaza Parkway
Modesto, CA  95350
p.  (209) 523-0000

Sign up for email club promotions

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John’s Incredible Pizza

Now that Halloween has past, it’s time to replace the Halloween decorations with some Fall and Thanksgiving decorative pieces. I really enjoy putting out these items because many of them are handmade keepsakes the kids have made over the years. We have adorable wooden handprint turkeys and fall leaf wreaths that show how the kids have grown from year to year. Every year we add to the collection and create new holiday memories.

In recent years, schools have given children the entire week of Thanksgiving off. I think this is great. Thanksgiving is one of the few holidays where the emphasis is truly on togetherness and the act of being thankful. It’s also a time for delicious recipes and feasting. I love cooking and am always looking for new things to make. One of my favorite Thanksgiving recipes is a Four Seasons soup called Winter Vegetable Potage. The recipe calls for a long list of vegetables, and I typically have to make a call in to my favorite produce department to order the ingredients in advance. This is one course that can be made a day or two in advance.  Here’s the recipe.

With an entire week off, you’ll want to plan some fun things to do with the kids as a family. There are so many fun fall activities to do together. Go on a nature walk and talk about the changing season, collect leaves and other gifts from nature and make Thanksgiving centerpieces, create leaf animals, or think of other artistic ways to use these materials. Another activity that fosters togetherness is baking. We discovered a great pumpkin bread and muffin mix and have enjoyed making these to give to teachers and friends as a way to show our appreciation for them. If you’re into baking from scratch, use a cherished family recipe, or find a new recipe online and get the kids to help out. Don’t forget to sit down with your children and help them reflect on what things they are thankful for, and to come up with ways to share that with others. Older children can make cards for friends and family to send in the mail, and younger kids can make simple artwork. Again, the internet is a wonderful resource for arts and crafts ideas!

Often, families travel to get together and spend these holidays together. You’ll want to also plan some exciting outings for everyone. For many people in Southern California that means a trip to Disneyland or other amusement parks. Gas prices are coming down, which helps, but the economy is still fragile and we are all feeling cautious with spending. Staying closer to home helps alleviate a lot of the cost, and there are plenty of fun places to go in town. John’s Incredible Pizza Co. has all the excitement of an amusement park but at a small fraction of the cost. The food is all-you-can-eat and the fun and games side is filled with enough fun to keep everyone entertained an entire day. Be sure to check their website for money saving coupons and incentives. If you sign up for their newsletter, you’ll receive promotions in your email!

Here are a few of the things we really like about John’s and why it’s a great option for your daycation:

-The all-you-can-eat buffet of pizza, pasta, salad, dessert and drinks

-Indoor rides fun for any age

-Themed rooms to suit any mood

Keeping things simple helps everyone enjoy their time together without feeling overwhelmed. With the focus on family and recognizing our many blessings, Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times of the year.

John’s Incredible Pizza
4555 N. Pershing Ave. 
Stockton, CA 95207 
(209) 954-1111 

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John’s Incredible Pizza Co.

3709 Rosedale Hwy.
Bakersfield, CA 93308
(661) 859-1111 

Check out John’s Pizza

In Southern California we have such unpredictable weather. One week will be a hundred degree heat wave, while the next will be overcast, even raining with lightning and thunder. This can make planning an event quite difficult. We were just at a birthday party over the weekend. They had a bouncy house set up, and even though the entire week gave us hot temperatures, we experienced rain and thunderstorms that put a bit of a damper on the festivities. Fortunately, we were able to move indoors and wrap up the birthday party and head home to get dry and stay warm.

When planning a birthday party or other event, it’s a good idea to have a back-up plan in case the weather doesn’t cooperate with your outdoor plans. If you’re doing a party at your house, be prepared to move things indoors in order to make your guests comfortable and keep the festivities going. In the event you’re planning a much larger party, decide on an indoor venue that can accommodate your guests so you’re not stuck scrambling at the last minute. If there’s a good chance the weather isn’t going to be pleasant, be sure to call partygoers with enough notice for them to make necessary arrangements for the change of plans.

Our playgroup enjoys doing a Thanksgiving playdate each year. It’s the perfect time for friends to get together and play, do fall crafts and Thanksgiving activities, and have the opportunity to be thankful for their friendships. Don’t forget your camera to capture memories you and your children can look back on for years to come. Our Thanksgiving party is one of the special times of the year that everyone comes together and is reminded of how thankful we are for one another. It’s also a time to eat some delicious food, like one friend’s home baked pumpkin walnut cookies!

Most years we do a potluck style feast at our favorite city park. This is a great spot to have an event. There are places to sit and eat and tons of room for the kids to play and have a great time. While many parks have covered picnic areas, too much wind or rain can ruin your plans. Usually we have someone in the group who offers their home as a Plan B. That way everyone can still enjoy their time together. With three kids, one being a toddler, it’s hard enough for me to keep up on laundry and other household chores, so I’m typically not the one volunteering to move the party to my house. I’m always very thankful when a friend is so generous (and organized)!

But what about bigger groups? We’re planning on a Thanksgiving potluck with our homeschool group at the park. This is a large group of families, and the children range in age from babies and toddlers to high-schoolers. Everyone looks forward to these get-togethers and there would be a lot of disappointment if the event had to be canceled. Moving to an indoor location to avoid poor weather conditions is the only solution. You want to choose a venue that will provide enough space and all the amenities a large group with such a variety of ages would need. John’s Incredible Pizza Co. is just such a place. John’s can accommodate large groups, giving you enough space to set up craft tables, and has food, fun and games that will make the kids and parents entertained and satisfied.

Here’s the top 5 reasons we love John’s Incredible Pizza:

1.  The All-you-can-eat-buffet of pizza, pasta, salad, dessert and fountain drinks 

2.  Beer and wine are available at an additional charge with a two drink limit

3.  Multiple themed rooms about the size of a standard restaurant that will take care of any mood you may be in

4.  Rides, fun and games that are relevant for very young ones all the way up to adults

5.  Fun promotions you can sign up for here

View the interactive map and directions from any location.

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John’s Incredible Pizza Co.
6187 Valley Springs Parkway
Riverside, CA  92507

If you’ve been keeping up on your current events in the news then it’s likely you’re watching news related to the imminent Presidential Election, the ups and downs of the stock market, stories on bailouts and home foreclosures – pretty intense stuff.  Not only is it intense, but a great deal of it can be negative and uncouth (for example, campaign advertising).  Many families are watching news channels and following these stories closely.  Every one of us is greatly impacted by the unfolding of these events.  Often, our kids are watching and overhearing these televised conversations that can be unsuitable for little ears.  Even when we think our kids aren’t listening, they come up with something later on that lets you know they were and we need to do some ‘splaining, Lucy.  

My seven year old has a greater grasp of the world around her than I did at her age.  It seems like kids even that young are talking about the economy and recognizing gas prices, even speaking confidently about their pick for president.  While there are so many great lessons kids can learn from these current events, we need to make sure we keep the negativity and tension out of it.  Kids pick up on this, and I have to admit, it doesn’t feel good as a parent to have kids worrying about what I feel like are “adult issues.”  Our children need reassurance during difficult times.  They want to feel safe and secure.   

Kids pick up on our anxiety and tension.  They also look to us as role models and are master mimics.  If you’ve witnessed your child say or do something that looks way too familiar, you know what I mean.  Sometimes it’ll make you proud, other times it serves as the most effective reality check around.  As a parent, it’s my job to set a good example.  Furthermore, I need to maintain a positive attitude and upbeat.  This will give them the stability and safety they crave.  Staying connected is most important.  Talk together, spend time together.  Keep subject matter at your children’s level.  Taking advantage of teachable moments is a great way to discuss subjects in a more informational way and can help keep strong opinions or biases (adult content) out of the equation.  For more ways to help children through unsettling times, read suggestions here. 

Having open and positive communication and spending family time together will give your children the reassurance they need during crises.  We’re always looking for fun things to do for the kids.  Something upbeat where the whole family can play and get our minds off of the seriousness of day to day life.  John’s Incredible Pizza Co. is a great way to do that.  From easy buffet style dining to games and rides to suit a variety of ages, everyone is bound to leave their worries at the door and have a day filled with fun and good times.  And in the spirit of saving money and getting free stuff, check out the John’s Rewards section of their website here.  

Here’s what you get and why we and our friends like it so much:

*  You’re not going to run out of space or things to do here.  John’s is easily the largest indoor fun place for kids anywhere.

*  Yes, these are real indoor rides for kids, like the twister that spins you around at what feels like several hundred miles per hour and the coolest bumper car setup we’ve seen.

*  Fun and interactive video and other games

*  Multiple dining rooms each with their own theme.  Themes range from sports to cartoons and each is easily the size of a restaurant.

*  The reason for multiple dining rooms would be the all-you-can-eat-buffet.  The buffet ties the rides for our favorite part of John’s.  Simply said they have more pizza flavors than you can imagine, tons of pasta variations and a fantastic salad bar for those seeking something a little lighter.  Of course if you dine on the salad bar you’ll have room for the all-you-can-eat dessert section.

John’s Incredible Pizza Co.
6187 Valley Springs Parkway
Riverside, CA  92507

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John’s Incredible Pizza Company

For those of us who love Halloween, this year is especially spooktacular with Halloween falling on a Friday.  That means an entire weekend of Halloween parties, playdates, and activities!  No need to worry about getting the kids home on time to keep with regular bedtimes so they won’t be dragging in the morning as they prepare for another day of school.  And if you happen to be one of those kids, you’re loving the fact that you’ll get to eat more candy, stay up later, and participate in more fun Halloween events.

Our kids are still young, and with a toddler in tow, we try to keep the fright factor to a minimal.  Many cities have daytime trick-or-treating events, as do shopping malls, schools and churches.  These provide great alternatives for parents with little ones.  We’ve found that the kids love passing out candy to trick-or-treaters just as much as going door to door themselves.  This year, we’re heading to our annual Halloween playdate where the kids get to trick-or-treat with their best friends and spend time playing together.  The parents get to spend time together, take tons of photographs, and sit down with a coffee and relax.  Later on, we make sure the grandparents get to see the grandkids in their costumes, and we visit neighbors who have watched them grow over the years.

The fun needn’t end there.  I’m a professional at dragging out birthdays for an entire week, or any other holiday for that matter.  Whether you’re going out as a family, or getting a group of people together, John’s Incredible Pizza Co. is a one place where everyone will have a great time.  Take a look at some of the attractions John’s has to offer.  For adults 21+ John’s Pizza has wine and beer with a two drink maximum.  There are several creatively themed dining rooms for your party to sit together and eat.  The kids will love all the choices of food, and the parents will appreciate not having to prepare meals or clean up afterwards.  The Fun World side has everything from interactive dance games to amusement park style rides and even an indoor express rollercoaster.  Even our youngest has an amazing time running around and checking out all of the flashing lights and fun kiddie rides.

If you’re interested in receiving promotions, specials, events and more, be sure to visit their webiste and sign-up for their email newsletter.  Joining is free and you’ll receive money saving coupons and discounts for even more fun!  

Here’s what your family gets and why we like it so much:

1. John’s Incredible Pizza is giant! You’re not going to run out of space or fun things to do here. John’s is easily the largest indoor play area for kids (or adults) anywhere. Now you can even take an interactive look at what a typical John’s Pizza is like on the inside. If you’ve never been to a John’s Pizza, you’ll be surprised.

2. John’s has many indoor rides and games. These are real indoor rides for kids including the coolest bumper car setup we’ve seen anywhere.

3. They have interactive and fun video and other games

4. Multiple themed dining rooms. Themes range from music videos to cartoons, each is easily the size of a standard restaurant.

5. There is great need for multiple dining rooms due to the all-you-can-eat-buffet. The buffet ties the rides for our favorite part of John’s. Simply said John’s has more pizza flavors than you can imagine, tons of pasta variations and a fantastic salad bar for those seeking a lighter fare. Of course if you dine on the salad bar you’ll have room for the all-you-can-eat dessert section too, which includes soft-serve ice cream, cakes, cookies and more.

John’s Incredible Pizza Company
384 N. Sunrise Ave.
Roseville, CA  95661
p.  (916) 772-1111

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