An American Girl: McKenna Shoots for the Stars --Airing on NBC, July 14th at 8/7C (Review and Giveaway)

 

We have been a hit lately with family and local friends, as I have been reviewing a dozen popcorn vendor samples lately (stay tuned, review posts begin later today, and run all week).  When my daughters have had play dates, I have been sending neighbors and friends home with popcorn samples to try and share their thoughts with me.  So, with all this popcorn, it was only fitting to have a few movie play dates.

I was recently sent an advance screener copy of An American Girl: McKenna Shoots For the Stars, to watch and share a review on.  This movie is set to air on Saturday, July 14th at 8/7C on NBC.  Savannah was so excited when I showed her the blu-ray/dvd combo pack I was sent, which is now available exclusively at Wal-Mart, American Girls stores and at americangirl.com, as of July 3rd.  With the recent heat wave we have been experiencing here in New England, I have been having play dates indoors.  But, after a week straight of indoor play, I was running out of creative ways to keep the children entertained, after they got bored with playing with their toys.  It was too hot to bake, and they could only swim for so long outside.  This was the perfect time to surprise them with a sneak peak at An American Girl: McKenna Shoots For the Stars.  Some of Savannah's friends has heard about the movie, from seeing previews on television, or from their friends.  Many had never seen a movie before it was released on DVD or aired on television, so they thought this aspect of the play date was cool.  I was considered a cool mom by a group of Savannah's friends. :-)

Growing up I was a fan of gymnastics, and even took a few years of it, until I got injured and had to give it up.  But, that didn't stop me from watching this sport during the Summer Olympics, and taking in exhibition shows with my mom.  Even today, I still tune into the Summer Olympics and Tivo gymnastics specials on television, as I am in awe of these talented girls/women.

To make the screening of this movie fun, I created special advanced movie tickets that Savannah helped me color, and mailed them to a handful of Savannah's friends.  They needed to bring their tickets with them to see the movie.  Upon arrival, I had a table set up of popcorn samples for them to try and make a bag, to enjoy with the movie.  Then, they all piled into the living room to watch An American Girl: McKenna Shoots For the Stars.  A handful of the moms stayed to watch the movie with their daughters, showing that it is a great bonding experience and way to enjoy mommy and me time.  I had asked parents to not let their children bring along their favorite American Girl dolls, as others may not have one, as they are a little on the expensive side.  I bought one for Savannah and Arabella, but have them packed away until they get a little bit older, to play with.

The film stars Nia Vardolas, best known for My Big Fat Greet Wedding, Jade Pettyjohn (The United States of Tara) as McKenna, Ian Ziering (Beverly Hills 90210), Kerris Dorsey (Brothers and Sisters) and former Olympic gymnast Cathy Rigby (also known for her role as Tinkerbell in Broadway's Peter Pan).  As a parent, it was great to see actors from my generation and shows that I watch, as well as seeing up-and-coming young stars like Jade Pettyjohn.  This heartwarming film was enjoyed by all, and offered a great message about dreaming big, and the importance of school, family and teamwork in achieving your goals, as well as believing in yourself.  The girls loved seeing the gymnastic moves, which were not too advanced.  You could see them getting excited about the sport, and a few even showed off their cartwheel skills. :-)

In addition to the sampling of gourmet popcorn and fresh lemonade, I also had a few goodies for the girls, to enjoy after the film.  The screener party pack I was sent included An American Girl: McKenna Shoots For the Stars rubber bracelet and activity sheets for the girls to enjoy.

Prior to the party, I went out and bought ribbons and dowels from the local craft store, so that the girls could make their own gymnastic rhythmic ribbons.  I also found medals, which I bought to give to each girl, after they showed off their ribbon twirling skills.  Overall, we had a blast at our An American Girl: McKenna Shoots For the Stars screening party.  I can't wait to have the girls over to watch the US gymnastics team in the Olympics, starting the end of this month.  And, who knows, maybe my daughters will want to take up gymnastics.  We will just have to wait and see.  Right now, Arabella is enjoying sporting her new collection of American Girl rubber bracelet:

If you have an American Girl fan in your house, make sure you mark your calendars and tune into this special airing on NBC, on Saturday, July 14th at 8/7C.  Then, plan to head to Wal-Mart or the American Girl store or website to order a copy of this combo pack to be enjoyed over and over again. 

---GIVEAWAY---

One lucky reader will win an An American Girl: McKenna Shoots For the Stars Combo Pack thanks to Universal Home Entertainment.  To enter, please complete the entries on the Rafflecopter form below.  Good luck!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure:  I was sent a screener party pack and gift card to buy party supplies, in order ro hold an An American Girl: Mckenna Shoots For the Stars screener party and write up an honest review.  The views above are mine and mine alone.