I was talking with a friend recently about the fears that I have as a father and as a man. Its not really something simple that we talk about all the time (as men or just people in general). We joke about death by using items like bucket lists to really talk about the things we want to get done before we’re gone. Josh (@DadStreet) and I talked about a bit of this on LateNightParents this week, when we talked about the Jackie O recordings and what we’d leave behind for our children (I’ll pick this point up again later).
I know by this point you are already thinking its time to click to a different site – something shinny and happy… you’re also thinking WTF adam I read dadarocks for the light stuff the funny the good – as I said months ago – I’m going to try to balance – so stick with me on this one.
If you’re not a close personal friend or been around the few and far between tweets – I had a bit of a scare last year, I had a heart attack. Yup, no history of issues… typical guy I avoided doctors unless there was something wrong. Everything was just like what the TV shows say it will be like – a crushing feeling on your chest and some arm pain. Fast forward 8 months the pain is gone…. but there is something new that I never really had before is the fear of what if I did die, what if I have another heart attack tomorrow (no one knows).
Add to that the typical family man stuff of making a living, enjoying my family, balancing work/life, juggling family/friends – now add to this the fear of what if.
I really dont know – I try to live for today – I’ve been trying to push away all the fears. Yah I have issues I know… I get that. I also get that I’m not letting this fear cripple me, but I do want to plan for something – just incase. All the legal stuff is good to go (wills, insurance, ect) but what about a message to the loved ones (this is what Josh and I were talking about) I have had on my to do list to create some videos for my wife and child should I go the way of the dinosaur and I really wonder how other deal? if others plan? do you write journals? do some recordings?
Blogworld is a great social media conference with some of the best in the business on panels, speakers, or keynotes on top of that they’re also there listening to their peers, networking and connecting with friends, fans and colleagues.
The content is key and if you check out the speakers list you’ll be impressed – but what is this Type-A Parent Track you may wonder?
The Type-A track lineup is:
Just a Mom” is No Excuse – Professionalism and Productivity Count with Heather Solos (@heathersolos) and Angela England (@angengland) – After hearing more than one blogger make the excuse “Oh well, I’m just a mom,” they realized that motherhood is no excuse for lack of professionalism. Nor is it a hindrance to productivity! They will discuss how to maintain a professional demeanor, without sacrificing the reason many of us choose to stay home – our families! Together we’ll also share tips and tricks for maximizing productivity and help bloggers focus their to-do lists to the most important and effective items.
How Dad Blogging Can Bust the Fatherhood Stereotypes with Bruce Sallan (@brucesallan) moderating with Jim Lin of Busy Dad Blog (@busydadblog), Ron Mattocks (@CK_Lunchbox) and Kevin Metzger (@theDadvocate) – Dads often get a bad rap in the media, but dad blogging provides an opportunity to dispel some myths and demonstrate that the modern dad is, in fact, a competent and involved parent.
Creating a Media Kit with Francesca Banducci (@SITSgirls) and Allison Talamantez (@swaygroup and @aztalamantez) – This presentation will cover what a media kit is and why you need one as a blogger, the most common elements of a media kit, examples of media kits to get you started and the five essential elements that all media kits need. Attendees will also get a handout to fill out throughout the presentation, which will serve as a template for them to create their own media kit.
Monetizing Your Parent Blog with Adam Keats (@akeats), Sheila Dowd (@xiaolinmama and @clevergirlscoll), Sarah Pinnix (@reallifesarah) and Leah Segedie (@bookieboo) – Yes, parent blogs can generate cash. This panel will offer tips, examples of successes and warnings of pitfalls when it comes to earning real money through your parent blog.
Exposed! When Blogging Gets Too Personal with Cecily Kellogg (@cecilyk), Anissa Mayhew (@anissamayhew), Michele Chestnut (@chelechestnut) and Erin Kotecki Vest (@queenofspain) – Parent blogs often include sharing details of our personal lives, but what happens when life gets a little too exposed? Four bloggers who have dealt with everything from health issues and trolls to personal and political debates will share tips and takeaways on how to cope, how to set boundaries, and how to deal when blogging gets too close for comfort.
Avoiding Parent Blog Design Mistakes with Melanie Nelson (@chilihead) and Brittany Vanderlinden (@mommywords) – Find out about the most common parent blog design mistakes, with an explanation of why they are mistakes that turn off visitors as well as concrete steps to fix those issues on your own blog. The audience will walk away with clear steps to make their blogs more visually attractive and user friendly.
Podcasting for Parent Bloggers with Maria Bailey (@momtalkradio) and Tamara Walker (@momrn) – Two long-time and established podcasters will share tips on getting started with podcasting, where to broadcast, developing a podcast theme and regular guests and topics, and building an audience.
Reaching the Digital Family: Marketing Strategies with Mom and Dad Influencers with Amy Lupold Bair (@resourcefulmom), Adam Cohen (@dadarocks), Janice Croze (@5minutesformom) and Josh Becker (@dadstreet) – There’s no question that brands and agencies are looking to reach not only the online mom, but the entire digital family. What are the best strategies to connect with this growing market, and how do mom and dad bloggers approach their unique audiences differently when representing companies?
Maintaining Privacy While Living Publicly with Jessica Gottlieb (@jessicagottlieb) – This is a very hands on session where bloggers can learn a lot of tips for how to keep their life private while still maintaining intimacy with their audience. It will cover registering your site, deciding to use your name, privacy via social networks like Facebook and Twitter, safety with location-based services, turning private moments into universal stories and public information found online.
Breaking Into Parent Vlogging with Jenny Ingram (@jennyonthespot) and Clay Nichols (@daddyclay) – If you’ve ever thought about delving into vlogging, but were intimidated by it or just didn’t know how to start, two seasoned parent vloggers will offer this basic session to get started.
(Track Keynote) Parent Bloggers Mean Business: Building Success, Respect, Confidence and Income with Kelby Carr (@typeamom) – Yes, parent bloggers can and should take themselves seriously. After all, if you don’t, who will? This session will cover the importance of putting on your game face as a parent blogger, and earning the respect and finding the confidence to break into success. Attendees will learn how to position themselves and their blog as a business, get tips on dealing with naysayers and the stereotypes that frequently hold bloggers with “mom” and “dad” in their name back, and find out how to leverage their blog’s success to branch out into other endeavors, and ultimately make a real and livable income.
The lineup was sourced from the Blogworld site (here) and I’m sure will be subject to some change based on schedules (we are all parents so when the kids call right?!)
What is Blogworld? BlogWorld & New Media Expo is the first and only industry-wide conference, tradeshow and media event dedicated to blogging, podcasting, social media, social networking, online video, music, Internet TV and radio. BlogWorld conference attendees enjoy more than 120 cutting-edge educational sessions presented by leading bloggers, podcasters and content creators, while the New Me/dia Expo provides the only industry-wide new media marketplace for networking, online business and marketing resources.
Register at blogworldexpo.com with the promo code DADA20 to save 20% off any conference pass. I should note that prices go up 30% on 9/21 hurry up and go get your pass!!!!
Preschoolers join Dora on magical journeys with unicorns, dragons and princesses in the new three-DVD box set, Dora the Explorer: Dora’s Storybook Adventures [ Amazon ]. The special box set includes Fairytale Adventure, Dora Saves the Snow Princess and Dora Saves the Crystal Kingdom. Created by Nickelodeon Home Entertainment and distributed by Paramount Home Entertainment, Dora the Explorer: Dora’s Storybook Adventures will be released on DVD on Sept. 13, 2011, for the suggested retail price of $24.99.
Dora the Explorer: Dora’s Storybook Adventures Episode Synopses:
Dora the Explorer:Fairytale Adventure
Fairytale Adventure (Double Length Episode)
Dora and Boots are exploring the forest when they discover the gate to Fairy-Tale Land. Soon they find that there’s a mean witch who lives in Fairy-Tale Land and when Boots eats a banana from the witch’s fruit tree, Boots turns into Sleeping Boots! In order to break the witch’s spell, Sleeping Boots must get a hug from Princess Dora.
What Happens Next?
Abuela gives Dora a special star pocket to catch explorer stars, and Dora sets out to become a star catcher! With Boots’ help, she soon catches her first explorer star but Swiper swipes the star pocket and ties it to a balloon that floats all the way up to cloud castle.
The Magic Stick
Dora and Boots find a magic stick and according to the wise old tree frog, it’s up to them to go to the top of the highest hill to make the stick do its magic trick.
Dora the Explorer:Dora Saves the Snow Princess
Dora Saves The Snow Princess (Double Length Episode)
Dora, Boots and the Snowflake Fairy are off to save La Princessa Sabrina and her snowy forest from a mean witch who has locked her in a tower and taken away her magic snow crystal.
Dora’s Jack-in-the-Box
Dora’s twin brother and sister have been sick and Dora wants to buy them a present to cheer them up. She finds a Jack-in-the-Box but it’s been so long since Jack’s been played, the little clown doesn’t know he’s supposed to pop out when the song says, “Pop goes the weasel!”
Bark, Bark To Play Park!
Everyone is getting ready for the big Twins Day Party at Play Park. Dora even has a surprise for her puppy, Perrito. He has a twin too – a long-lost puppy brother he hasn’t seen since they were babies.
Dora the Explorer:Dora Saves the Crystal Kingdom!
Dora Saves the Crystal Kingdom (Double Length Episode)
A greedy king has stolen the crystals that give Allie’s kingdom color and Dora and Boots must help Allie locate the crystals and turn the pale gray kingdom back into a colorful wonderland before it’s too late. Along the way, the trio gain help from a British knight, a giant caterpillar and a magician who give Dora three gifts – a shield, butterfly wings and a magic wand – to aid in her journey. Using these presents, Dora attempts to defeat the greedy king and restore color to the kingdom.
First Day of School
Boots and Tico are really excited because it’s their first day of school ever. In their new school, they’ll learn in English and Spanish! Dora leads the way, teaching Boots Spanish and Tico English as they head out to school.
Boots’ Banana Wish
Dora and Boots are at an amusement park where they have a special wishing machine. Boots makes a wish for bananas and suddenly a bunch fall down on Boots. He’s so happy but soon realizes that the bananas don’t stop coming.
Dora the Explorer: Dora’s Storybook Adventures Fast Facts:
Catalogue: 145454
DVD SRP: $24.99
DVD Running Time: Approximately 282 Minutes
Nothing is better then getting 3 discs full of Dora for your kids at what most movies cost, they’re great as gifts since its a 3 dvds packaged together. The stories in this box set arent new but they’re also really not in the dora replay loop on TV. So for those Dora fans just double check to make sure you dont own the single DVDs for those just getting started – its a wonderful buy!
How to win it… Contest ends 11:59pm EST. September 21st, 2011.
2 Lucky people will win the Dora DVD Box set! Tell us your favorite character on Dora is and please include some method for us to contact you in the comment (twitter or email).
You get 1 extra entry for tweeting about this contest (you can do this daily). Must contain the following information: @NickelodeonDVD @dadarocks – http://dad.tc/plgnfD and you must also comment with the link to your twitter message.
Example: I want to win the #Dora the Explorer #StorybookAdventures DVD Set from @dadarocks & @NickelodeonDVD – http://dad.tc/plgnfD
Discover unicorns, gnomes and fairies in three fantastical Dora episodes featured on the Dora the Explorer: Dora’s Enchanted Forest Adventures DVD [ Amazon ] that will be available on Sept.13, 2011, weeks before they premiere on air in November 2011. Dora and Boots must defend the kingdom of the Enchanted Forest, travel to Atlantis and save King Unicornio in this epic three-part adventure, which includes a special double-length feature! As an added bonus, a one-year free subscription to Parents magazine is included in the DVD for a limited time only. Created by Nickelodeon Home Entertainment and distributed by Paramount Home Entertainment, Dora the Explorer: Dora’s Enchanted Forest Adventures will be released on DVD for the suggested retail price of $19.99.
Dora the Explorer: Dora’s Enchanted Forest Adventures Episode Synopses:
Tale of the Unicorn King
All of the forest animals choose Unicornio as the King of the Enchanted Forest. The animals think Unicornio is kind, smart, brave and strong but Unicornio is shy and doesn’t think he’s any of those things. Dora and Boots must prove to Unicornio that he can be King.
The Secret of Atlantis
Dora and Boots are at the beach when they see Diego riding in on a dolphin. He just went on an undersea adventure and found the legendary lost continent of Atlantis where he finds out why it disappeared from the Earth. Diego recruits Dora, Boots and King Unicornio to help him end an ancient feud between unicorns and dragons as it’s the only way to make Atlantis rise.
Dora Saves King Unicornio (Double-Length Episode)
Dora and Boots are playing in the leaves on an autumn day and Little Rabbit from the Enchanted Forest arrives to ask for their help. When King Unicornio returned from Atlantis to the Enchanted Forest, Owl didn’t want to give back the king’s crown, so he tricks Unicornio. If Unicornio doesn’t plug up the dam with his horn, the whole forest will flood! Meanwhile, Owl is still ruling over the Enchanted Forest and making new rules like banning scarecrows, gnomes and fairies from the forest. Dora and Boots set out to rescue Unicornio from the Owl.
Dora the Explorer: Dora’s Enchanted Forest Adventures Fast Facts:
Catalogue: 822454
DVD SRP: $19.99
DVD Running Time: Approximately 93 Minutes
Special Features:
Music Videos
Atlantis Song
We Can Be Friends
Share My Light
How to win it… Contest ends 11:59pm EST. September 21st, 2011.
2 Lucky people will win the Dora DVD! Tell us your favorite character on Dora is and please include some method for us to contact you in the comment (twitter or email).
You get 1 extra entry for tweeting about this contest (you can do this daily). Must contain the following information: @NickelodeonDVD @dadarocks – http://dad.tc/o7olUO and you must also comment with the link to your twitter message.
Example: I want to win the #Dora the Explorer #EnchantedForestAdventures DVD Set from @dadarocks & @NickelodeonDVD – http://dad.tc/o7olUO
na na na na na na na, na naaaaa – some times parenthood just happens, sometimes its searched for, sometimes it needs a little assistance, sometimes its planned… Yup planned thats what I’m working on now, I have the most amazing son who brings a smile to my face daily. Its become time to give him a little friend – <internal monolog: SWEET!> but my wife will cut me if this one isnt a girl. I’ve been a bit wishy-washy on this factor because boy or girl it doesnt matter but does it? how many experiences would I miss out on by not having a girl – what happens? If I do get a lil girl then what atleast I’ve done it once with a boy – I tend to know what the bit and pieces do and how to take care of him… It wasnt much of a conversation to stick with only having one child – but that thought crosses my mind all the time. What if we had just one child? would my son be missing out – would we?
So here I am up late at night reading Dr. Shettles’s book… searching google for old wives tales… looking at star maps and astrology guides… calendars from different cultures all in the hopes of working on sex selection – for that… (yah not going against my wife here) baby girl. Got a tip let me know – we’re all ears…
You’re reading this because you’re most likely a parent… now being a parent I can say I wait till the last second to do anything and everything… mainly because I’m too busy doing other things to really make time for things but I think we can all agree that eye exams are the most important back-to-school supply. Simply because 1 in 4 kids have a vision problem that can affect academic learning, which is 80% visual.
Making annual eye exams part of your annual back-to-school check list helps set your child up for success. Simple vision screenings are not enough to take care of your child’s eyesight. A study by the National Eye Institute found that vision screenings missed between 32-63% of vision problems identified by eye examinations. Further, the American Optometric Association shares that 60% of students identified as “problem learners” actually have an undetected vision problem.
Children often don’t know if they should see better. That’s why it’s important to schedule annual comprehensive eye exams before starting the school year… Which brings us to this point that its BACK… the whole no time and putting it off to the last minute because the LensCrafters Semi-Annual Lens Event ends soon!!!
LENSCRAFTERS SEMI-ANNUAL LENS EVENT
FOR A LIMITED TIME RECEIVE 50% OFF LENSES WITH FRAME PURCHASE DURING LENSCRAFTERS’
SIGNATURE LENS EVENT
LensCrafters – the ultimate eyewear retail destination that offers a great selection of prescription glasses and sunglasses, including the widest variety of brands, styles and looks with the latest lens technologies.
WHAT & WHEN:
LensCrafters is holding its Semi-Annual Lens Event, with 50% off lenses, just in time for back-to-school! Starting July 8 through September 12, receive 50% off lenses, including bi-focals, no lines and sunglasses made in your prescription with frame purchase.
WHY:
LATEST STYLES: Fall is just around the corner and now is the perfect time to update your look with a new pair of glasses and/or sunglasses made with your prescription.
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: See better than ever before with LensCrafters’ new and exclusive AccuFit Digital Measurement System. The AccuFit Digital Measurements System delivers crisper, clearer vision with pupil measurements that are 5 times more precise than manual methods. At LensCrafters you’ll get a 100% custom fit, every time.
CONVENIENCE: Need your new glasses right now? Quality-crafted lenses can be made in about an hour at most LensCrafters locations. Some prescriptions or lens materials may require additional time. 90-DAY UNCONDITIONAL GUARANTEE: If you don’t love your new glasses or prescription sunglasses for any reason, and they are in resaleable condition, you can replace or return them for a full refund within 90 days of the date of purchase. Applies only to the original purchase. This guarantee does not cover accidental damage, scratches or breakage.
For your nearest LensCrafters, call 1-877-7LENSCRAFTERS or visit LensCrafters.com
Disclaimer: 50% OFF Lenses INCLUDES BIFOCALS, NO-LINES AND SUNGLASSES MADE WITH YOUR
PRESCRIPTION. Valid on multiple pairs. Both frame and lenses purchase required. Cannot be combined or used in conjunction with any vision care or insurance benefits or plans, any store or other offer, discount or sale, previous purchases, readers or non-prescription sunglasses Valid prescription required. Discounts are off quoted list price. Certain brands excluded, including Duralens, Maui Jim and Oakley Authentic lenses and clearance frames. Void where prohibited. See store for details. Offer expires 9/12/11.
My wife has already taken advantage of this great discount offer as she is wearing wonderful new glasses (yes she paid for them) for those times she doesnt feel like wearing contacts. One of the coolest things I’d have to say is she had them in about an hour – which also happens to be the usual delivery time for food around Manhattan. Really this amazing – in the same time it could take your nails to get done you’re walking out with a brand new glasses that should help you see better.
I got to try out this perfect fit technology which is very impressive (ignore my ugly mug for a second) like the glasses that I happened to receive as well – cool because one lucky reader is going to end up winning a their own raybans from LensCrafters. Ray-Ban RB8301 in black with a retail value is $179.95 if you really wanted to know (its also those in the picture to the upper right)!
Now that you’ve seen this perfect fit technology what is it?
AccuFit Digital Measurement System is 5 times more precise than the traditional, manual method.
LensSimulator: Experience the benefits of each lens choice in a dynamic and interactive way.
VirtualMirror: Enables customers to see how they look in multiple frame styles.
LensCrafters’ new and exclusive AccuFit Digital Measurement System enables its skilled opticians to measure the precise location of the pupils, the spacing between eyes, and the shape of glasses to ensure the best possible placement of the prescription in your new glasses. This service is available in LensCrafters locations starting this month, September 2011.
How to win it… Contest ends (along with the sale) on 11:59pm EST. September 12th, 2011.
Tell us your closest LensCrafters is and please include some method for us to contact you in the comment (twitter or email).
You get 1 extra entry for becoming their FAN on facebook –facebook.com/LensCrafters you must comment that you’re a fan
You get 1 extra entry for tweeting about this contest (you can do this once). Must contain the following information: #LensCrafters @LensCraftrsCare @dadarocks – http://dad.tc/qVkURB and you must also comment with the link to your twitter message.
Example: #LensCrafters Semi-Annual Sale Ends 9/12 but enough time to win RayBan sunglasses from @dadarocks & @LensCraftrsCare – http://dad.tc/qVkURB
You get 1 extra entry for following us on twitter – twitter.com/dadarocks you must comment that you’re following with your twitter handle
You get 1 extra entry for following them on twitter – twitter.com/LensCraftrsCare you must comment that you’re following with your twitter handle
You get 1 extra entry for becoming a FAN on facebook –facebook.com/DaDaRocks you must comment that you’re a fan
You will have 24 hours to reply before we pick another winner!
Disclaimer: LensCrafters has provided the prize for this raffle
I was talking with a friend recently about the fears that I have as a father and as a man. Its not really something simple that we talk about all the time (as men or just people in general). We joke about death by using items like bucket lists to really talk about the things we want to get done before we’re gone. Josh (@DadStreet) and I talked about a bit of this on LateNightParents this week, when we talked about the Jackie O recordings and what we’d leave behind for our children (I’ll pick this point up again later).
90-DAY UNCONDITIONAL GUARANTEE: If you don’t love your new glasses or prescription sunglasses for any reason, and they are in resaleable condition, you can replace or return them for a full refund within 90 days of the date of purchase. Applies only to the original purchase. This guarantee does not cover accidental damage, scratches or breakage.