Sunshiney Daze: 2014

Thursday, December 25, 2014

Into the Woods

I admit freely that I'm a huge fan of musical theater! Name a play and I can probably sing a song from it! So when I heard "Into The Woods" was being made into a movie, well I was thrilled!

I was giddy with excitement on the way to see this movie and it did not disappoint! I was enthralled from the opening to the ending credits. Though, I did have to giggle... on the way out I overhead another movie goer exclaim that there was entirely too much singing in the movie. Someone should have warned her that a musical involves singing. So be forewarned, this is a musical and everyone sings.

So what is "Into The Woods" about?

From Disney: "Into the Woods” is a modern twist on several beloved fairy tales, intertwining the plots of a few choice stories and exploring the consequences of the characters’ wishes and quests. This humorous and heartfelt musical follows the classic tales of Cinderella (Anna Kendrick), Little Red Riding Hood (Lilla Crawford), Jack and the Beanstalk (Daniel Huttlestone), and Rapunzel (MacKenzie Mauzy), all tied together by an original story involving a Baker and his Wife (James Corden and Emily Blunt), their wish to begin a family and their interaction with the Witch (Meryl Streep), who has put a curse on them."

Some of my favorite moments were Johnny Depp as the wolf. He did an amazing job! Watching Chris Pine as Prince Charming. Not only a feast for the eyes, but he did an amazing job portraying a charming prince. The song "Prince's Lament" was probably my favorite part of the movie! It was hilarious! And of course, Meryl Streep as the witch! She was flawless!

Into the Woods was gorgeous visually! Here's some fun facts about the set. Did you know that the set was built on Stage H at Shepperton Studios, and made up of 2,000 tons of soil, over 600 ferns, acres and acres of ivy and countless pallets of moss and turf. 95% of the trees used on the Wood set were real trees, including 30-foot pine trees and hundreds of 25 foot oak tree branches. The leaves were removed and replaced with artificial ones so they would last longer. Oh yeah, and Rapunzel's hair in the film is 20 feet long and made with real hair!

So, to sum up I loved this movie! Loved the acting, loved the story, loved the singing and loved the moral... Be Careful What You Wish For.

Disclosure: I was given the opportunity to see this movie for the purpose of a review. The opinions are all my own and free of charge!

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Tuesday, December 23, 2014

Mike and Ike -Stocking Stuffers

It's Christmas Eve Eve... yes, that's a real thing (at least in my world!) Ü It's officially last minute!

Still searching for a few stocking stuffers or just need a little sweet to get you through the last push to the finish line? Well, let me tell you about Mike and Ike Candies! Most of us have heard and hopefully tasted Mike and Ikes! They are delicious! Well, right now they have some seasonal varieties!

They have a Merry Mix that is green and red colored, perfect for those holiday parties. The flavors are Cherry, Lime, and Holiday Punch. I particularly liked the Holiday Punch flavor. Is it rude to pick out all the dark green ones?

How about Mike and Ike Minion Mix? There are three different box designs all featuring those cute minions. The flavors are banana and blueberry. My son liked blueberry the best, I went bananas for banana!

Is spicy more your thing? Then how about Ho Ho Ho Hot Tamales! a 5 oz box of sizzling sweetness!

Want to do some holiday baking? Well, add in some Mike and Ike for a new twist! How about some Mike and Ike Crispy Rice Cereal Treats? Here's the recipe:

MIKE AND IKE® Crispy Rice Cereal Treats

Servings: 8

INGREDIENTS:

· 1 ½ cups (13 oz) MIKE AND IKE® Original Candies, coarsely chopped*

· 3 tablespoons (1.5 oz, 42g) margarine

· 10 oz (280 g) marshmallows

· 1/2 cup (1.7 oz, 48 g) marshmallow fluff

· 6 cups (5.7 oz, 160g) crisp rice cereal

*The best way to chop it is with a lightly oiled knife.

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Grease a 9 X 13 pan and set aside.

2. Combine the marshmallows and margarine in a large microwave safe bowl.

3. Place the cereal and candy in another bowl and toss well to combine. Set aside.

4. Microwave the marshmallows and margarine for one minute.

5. Remove from the microwave and stir to combine. If the marshmallows are not fully melted return to the microwave and cook for 30 seconds at a time until they are fully melted.

6. Stir in the fluff and mix well. Add the candy and cereal mixture and stir until combined.

Turn the mixture out into the prepared pan. Let cool, then cut into squares.

Sounds delicious, right!

How would one of you lucky readers like to win some Mike and Ike candy of your own? Sweet! Just enter on the form below!

Thanks Mike and Ike for all this holiday sweetness!

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Disclosure: I received these products for the purpose of a review. The opinions are all my own and free of charge!

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Saturday, December 13, 2014

XOut Review

I participated in an Influencer Activation Program on behalf of Influence-Central for X Out. I received samples of X Out to facilitate my review and a thank you item for participating.

Many of you know that I have a teenage son with special needs. He is an amazing young man and life is full of adventure and challenges!

One of those challenges is puberty, (isn't it for everyone?) Ü Because of his disorder and sensory issues, it is a challenge (there's that word again) to get him to wash his face, brush his teeth, etc. Now, add in teenage acne, and we have a problem.

I was excited for the opportunity to try X Out. It advertises that it is a one step process! Well, I was all over that! I showed it to my son, and explained that all he needed to do was get his face damp, massage in X-Out Wash-In treatment, then wash it off. He very reluctantly told me he'd try, only after I told him it was like a scientist testing a product.

It was a hit! He liked the way it felt on his skin (huge success there!) and liked that it "tingled" a little bit. He agreed to continue the "test". He did a great job using and and really likes it! It is now a regular part of his routine! And get this! I don't have to ~~fight~~, I mean remind him to use it! He also tried the Spot Corrector and actually enjoyed using that in the evening.

So does it work? Well, I'll let the pictures speak for themselves:

Before picture

After picture

There was a huge difference! He's excited that all the "bumps" are gone! He told me, "Watch out girls, cuz I'm looking good!" Yes, he is!

I'm a believer in X Out! They have a wonderful line of products including the Spot Corrector, Cleansing Body Bar (for that embarrassing Backne - I just made that word up! get it? Back and Acne? hee-hee) Ü a Daily Body Scrub, Shine Control, and even a Deep Cleansing Brush!

Here's a video of my son with his own testimonial! (sorry about the end, I'm terrible at running my camera!)

We are really happy with our results and will definitely keep using X Out! It's a hit around here! Want more info? Check out X Out on their website here!

Disclosure: I received this product for the purpose of a review. The opinions are all my own and free of charge!

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Thursday, December 11, 2014

Navy Seal Noel

It's the Holidays! So busy, so crazy, shopping, decorating, wrapping, baking... All fun things but it's a lot! Looking for some down time? Well, do I have a solution for you!

I love to read! I can immerse myself in a book and forget about all life's stresses. So, when I found out about Navy Seal Noel, I was pretty excited! A suspenseful book and a Christmas book rolled in to one! What a great stress relief! Let me tell you about Navy Seal Noel by Liz Johnson....

From the book:

Abducted by a drug cartel, scientist Jessalynn McCoy's orders are simple—release a deadly toxin, or be killed. Trapped with no options, she's desperate for help…she just never expected it from Will Gumble. The boy who let her down years ago is now a navy SEAL. She trusts his skills, his experience. Yet trusting him is a struggle. Will's Christmas wish is to heal their damaged relationship and get them to safety. But time is running out and someone is on to their escape plans. Any mistake could mean the difference between facing the holidays together or apart. Forever.

What I loved about this book was it had all the elements, suspense, drama, love interest, bad guys, Navy Seals... without all the garbage that is often so prevalent in other books of this genre. I didn't have to worry about bad language, or descriptions of romance that I find inappropriate! Add in the great plot, the page-turning excitement, and characters that are very believable and you've got a great book! Well done Liz Johnson!

One of the things I really enjoyed (besides the page-turning suspense) was the well-developed characters! Jess is a strong woman and resourceful. She is trapped in the jungle with a drug cartel, asked to do the unthinkable. Liz Johnson's writing immerses us in her character, in her fear and her resolve. All the characters are very real.

So, if you're looking for some time for yourself and a chance to relax and escape, yet still stay in the Christmas season... well this is the book for you!

Now, more exciting news! One of you lucky readers can win your own copy of Navy Seal Noel! Woo Hoo! Just enter on the form below.

You can check out more books by Liz Johnson on her website: www.LizJohnsonBooks.com, or on Facebook and Twitter.

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Disclosure: I received this book for the purpose of a review. The opinions are all my own and free of charge!

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Sunday, November 2, 2014

Dave's Killer Bread

Dave's Killer Bread.... does it live up to it's name? Is it so delicious, it's killer! Why yes, yes it is!

I had the opportunity to try Dave's Killer Bread. I sampled the 21 Whole Grains and Seeds Bread, and the Good Seed Bread. The first thing I was impressed with was how yummy it looked! It was covered with grains, just how I like my bread! I loved the taste and how substantial the bread was. I can't stand flimsy bread that sticks to the roof of your mouth... blegh! It really is delicious bread!

Next came the kid taste test.... Dunh Dunh Dunh! The kid's loved it! It is now the requested bread for their lunch sandwiches! My favorite way to eat it is toasted with a generous slab of butter and honey... my mouth is watering just thinking about it!

Dave's Killer Bread started out as a favorite organic bread at a local Farmers Market in Portland, Oregon. Less than a decade later, they are the #1 best-selling sliced organic bread in the country.

The brand has now grown to 13 varieties, with two new flavors introduced in 2014, all of which are 100% USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified. Dave’s Killer Bread is currently available in most major retail stores across nearly 25 U.S. states and Canada. Delicious and healthy, a great combination!

A give a big thumbs up to Dave's Killer Bread! Check out their website! There's a really interesting story of how they started! Go Dave's!

Disclosure: I received this product from the Mom's Meet program from May Media Group, LLC, for the purpose of a review. The opinions are all my own and free of charge!

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Friday, September 26, 2014

Guardian - It Beats Deet!

This summer has been a bad one for mosquitos! In one night, I counted over 20 mosquito bites, and that was from just a short while outside. You think I'd be skinnier with all the blood that was drained!

I was offered the opportunity to review Guardian Repellent and I was thrilled! I would have jumped for joy but I was too weak from loss of blood! (Okay, not really... just being dramatic!)

So, first test was the smell test. I can't stand the smell of most repellents. This one wasn't bad. I didn't mind it and after the initial application, I didn't really smell it. That's a good thing. Second test, I applied and sat in my home. (yes, the little buggers are in my home right now too... yuck!) I was actually able to sit at my computer and work without being constantly bit! Second test passed.

Now on to the ultimate test.... the outside test. I sprayed on Guardian and with great trepidation, headed outside. The mosquitos were thick and you could even hear those little suckers, but not one bite.... really! Not One Bite! I know, right! I was thrilled! Test Three passed with flying colors!

Now, even more good news... it's Deet Free. Guardian Repellent uses a nature-derived solution that is scientifically proven to match or exceed 15% DEET. That's a big plus for me!

I'm a fan of Guardian! I'd show you how much with a big leap of joy, but I'm still recovering from those initial bites. (Okay, not really.... I'm just lazy!)

Disclosure: I received this product for the purpose of a review. The opinions are all my own and free of charge!

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Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Adovia, I Adore You

Do I have dry skin? I live in Arizona.... need I say more? The Arizona sun bakes my skin and makes it feel like there is not an ounce of moisture left in it. Yet, when I use a moisturizer and then head outside, it melts whatever moisturizer I've put on my face. What to do, what to do?

Well, I had the chance to review Adovia Natural Moisturizing Day Cream with Dead Sea Minerals. What is it you ask?  It is a Natural facial moisturizer that is infused with Dead Sea minerals and healing salts. It is hypo-allergenic and dermatologist tested and approved. It is supposed to help your skin regain it's natural moisture and then retain that moisture.  Sounds good, so I gave it a try.

The first thing I noticed when I opened the jar is how wonderful it smelled! Love, love, love the smell! I'd use it just for the lovely fragrance!  It is very creamy and thick, and very white. Kind of pretty actually.  Though when I felt it, I thought it would leave my skin feeling very greasy. Nope!  When I applied it, it went on somewhat heavy but immediately soaked into my skin leaving it feeling very soft and very moisturized!

Then I headed outside to give it the Arizona sun test. It passed! It didn't melt, it didn't feel sticky. In fact it didn't feel like I had anything on, though I knew I did because my skin felt moisturized. Round two to you, Adovia!

I have continued to use Adovia Moisturizing Day Cream on a daily basis and I'm very pleased with the results! My skin feels wonderful, and I'm noticing that it's looking smoother!  I'm very pleased with Adovia and will continue to use it... it smells too good not to. Oh yeah, and my face looks great too! Thanks Adovia!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

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Thursday, September 4, 2014

Zevia - Happy and Healthier!

It's time.... it's past time. I've been wanting to eat healthier and feel healthier for a long time. I kept thinking, "I'll start first thing... tomorrow." Well, tomorrow is here!

I've been exercising and losing some unhealthy habits, like my need for sugar. That being said, I still need my soda... all that bubbly carbonation! Enter Zevia! It is a Zero Calorie Soda that is sweetened naturally. No calories, no sugar, no artificial sweeteners, oh yeah! Did I mention it's Kosher, Vegan, and Gluten-Free? Well, it is.

Zevia comes in 15 different flavors, yes, you heard me... 15 flavors! Black Cherry, Cola, Caffeine-Free Cola, Orange, Grape, Dr. Zevia, Ginger Ale, Grapefruit Citrus (personal favorite), Ginger Root Beer, Lime Cola, Strawberry, Cream Soda, Lemon-Lime, Mountain Zevia, and Cherry Cola! Whew!

So, let's get to the important part... how does it taste? Well, I'm a fan! I think my favorite is Grapefruit Citrus, I'm drinking it right now as I write this. I'm sure it has nothing to do with the fact that I live on an acre of citrus trees including lots of grapefruit! Ü I liked every flavor except, not a big fan of Ginger Root Beer, though my son loved it.

I did the ultimate taste test with my sweet hubby, who is a bit picky about his soda(love ya, hun!) He can't stand any type of an after-taste that you get with a lot of diet or sugar free sodas. Well, he liked almost all of it, he really liked the Black Cherry, but was not a fan of the Mountain Zevia (I guess he's a Mountain Dew purist). I myself, liked it!

I also like that you can find it at your local grocers! I can grab a six pack when I go shopping!

So, thanks to Zevia, I'm feeling happy (bubbly carbonation) and healthier (be gone, sugar)!

To add to the happy factor, Zevia is having a fun contest right now. Just enjoy some Zevia, snap a selfie and post about you #zeviastyle . They are giving away $100 Target gift cards, and lots of other prizes. Ceck it out here!

Speaking of contests, five of you lucky readers can each win a coupon for a free six-pack of Zevia! You can enter below. Enjoy!

Disclosure: I received this product for the purpose of a review. The opinions are all my own and free of charge! Thanks MomsMeet.com for this opportunity!

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Sheer Cover - Covers Beautifully!

I have never liked the feel of foundation on my face... or the look for that matter. I don't want the real me covered, freckles and all. That being said, I'm also not a big fan of wrinkles, blemishes and other little imperfections. So I've always been on a quest for something that will cover what I want covered, and let the other stuff shine through.

I'm thrilled to say, that I've finally found my solution! Let me tell you about Sheer Cover Studio Makeup System! It has all the products you need to achieve a lovely look!

So, after receiving these great products, I perused the step-by-step instruction booklet, (though, truth be told, it's pretty self-explanatory). First I used the Base Perfector Primer. Love this stuff! My face felt so soft and smooth and the mineral foundation went on so easy and even. I forgot to use the primer once and while the makeup still looked great, the primer really makes a difference. It really helps the makeup glide on smoothly and minimizes those fine lines.

Next, I used the conceal and brighten trio. It helped hide my dark under-eye circles from lack of sleep and accented my eyes. Then, came the mineral foundation... ooh! Felt so great, looked so great and covered those pesky little blemishes that they told us would go away once we were out of the teenage years (lies!), yet my freckles could peak through. Though if you don't like freckles, if you applied it a bit heavier I'm sure it would cover those little sun-kisses.

Before: (yes, I actually posted a pic with wet hair and no makeup!)

I finished off the look with the bronzer (three different shades in one compact so I could highlight and create depth where I needed to, and finally the lengthening mascara and lash extending fibers. I was pleased with the result and hurried out to show my husband my stunning new look! He gasped with amazement and swept me into his arms! Okay, not really but he did say, "Looking good, babe." Sold! Love this stuff!

After - (had so much fun playing with the make-up, forgot to do my hair!)

Now, you know I love contests and giveaways. There's a great one going on at ModernMom.com for a year's supply of Sheer Cover Mineral Foundation! You can enter here!

You can also check out Sheer Cover on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest, or the Sheer Cover website if you want more info. Hope you like it as much as I do!

Disclosure: I received these products for the purpose of a review. The opinions are all my own and free of charge!

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Monday, August 18, 2014

Raspberry Ketones

Raspberry Ketones... have you heard of them? They are supposed to help boost your metabolism and help you burn fat, AND suppress your appetite.

I have always been a bit of a skeptic when it comes to all the claims made by different supplements. So when I was approached by Summit Nutritions to try their Pure Raspberry Ketones, well..... I tried to test this with an open mind but I came in being.... yes, a skeptic.

Let me get some details out of the way. They are all natural, and have no artificial fillers, or binders. Just Pure Raspberry Ketones. Even the capsule is vegan. They are manufactured in the USA and are FDA approved cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practice, Highest Quality Standard for Manufacturing Supplements).

When the product arrived, I loved the color, pretty red. It is recommended that you take one table twice a day, 30 minutes before a meal. I did. Took one 30 minutes before breakfast, and then forgot to eat breakfast. I wasn't hungry and it's my hunger that tells me it's breakfast time. Okay, Raspberry Ketones, you're off to a good start!

I've been taking them for over a week now, so this isn't a huge comprehensive trial, but I'll tell you what I've noticed. First, my appetite is definitely suppressed. I don't feel nearly as hungry. I'm not searching for snacks throughout the day. My meal portions have been smaller. All good things!

I have noticed more energy. I used to crash around 2 pm and had a hard time keeping up the pace for the rest of the day. I haven't noticed that anymore. I'm still plenty tired by the end of the day, but I'm not crashing mid-day. Again, good things!

I've lost three pounds this week. Now, I don't know if that is caused by Raspberry Ketones, or I'm just trying to generally eat healthier. But, the whole appetite suppressant and energy thing had to have had an effect on my weight loss.

Another little bonus, is... Not that I burp (because, after all, ladies never burp)! but if I might have let a little burp slip out it tasted like raspberries! No pill taste, no yucky taste, just sweet raspberry taste! Okay, sorry if I grossed you out!

So, I will keep taking Summit Nutritions Raspberry Ketones. I'll keep you posted on the ongoing results. Right now, I'm definitely a thumbs up!

Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

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So Refreshing!

I love scent! So many memories are triggered by smells. I always use a body wash with a scent. Depending on my mood that day, that's the scent I choose.

Dial Coconut Water Refreshing Mango body wash starts my day off right! It has the most amazing scent! It reminds me of a tropical paradise! First thing in the morning I feel like I've been transported to a tropical island. The scent is heavenly, and not too strong, not too weak!

Now let me tell you how my skin feels after using Dial Coconut Water Refreshing Mango Body Wash.... smooth, hydrated, refreshed!

I learned that coconut water is known to be rich in antioxidants and electrolytes that help with hydration. Mango is known for being nutrient rich and adds a touch of tropical freshness. I feel like I'm not only helping my skin be healthier, but I feel a little luxurious in the process! Visiting my own private tropical island (well, at least in my mind)!

So, you know me and giveaways.... love them! Well 3 of your lucky readers will each win a free product coupon for Dial Coconut Water Refreshing Mango body wash! How cool is that!? Just enter on the form below.

Now, if you'll excuse me it's time to visit my island again!

Disclosure: I received this product and for the purpose of a review. The opinions are all my own and free of charge!

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Friday, August 1, 2014

Guardians of the Galaxy

Groot is now my new favorite movie character! I want my own Groot! Do you think if I took a cutting, I could grow my own? What/Who is Groot? Why, he's a Guardian of the Galaxy, of course.

I had a chance to attend a preview of Guardians of the Galaxy. I went in with high hopes and I was not disappointed! It is full of ultra-villainy villains and incredible special effects! Before I go any further, let me tell you what it's about:

"From Marvel, the studio that brought you the global blockbuster franchises of Iron Man, Thor, Captain America and The Avengers, comes a new team—the Guardians of the Galaxy. An action-packed, epic space adventure, Marvel's “Guardians of the Galaxy” expands the Marvel Cinematic Universe into the cosmos, where brash adventurer Peter Quill finds himself the object of an unrelenting bounty hunt after stealing a mysterious orb coveted by Ronan, a powerful villain with ambitions that threaten the entire universe. To evade the ever-persistent Ronan, Quill is forced into an uneasy truce with a quartet of disparate misfits—Rocket, a gun-toting raccoon, Groot, a tree-like humanoid, the deadly and enigmatic Gamora and the revenge-driven Drax the Destroyer. But when Quill discovers the true power of the orb and the menace it poses to the cosmos, he must do his best to rally his ragtag rivals for a last, desperate stand—with the galaxy's fate in the balance."

I don't want to give any spoilers away, but I guess I will say that I had some tears in the beginning, laughed uproariously throughout and was thoroughly entertained. The special effects are incredible. Two of the main characters are a raccoon and a tree guy, yet I totally believed them as characters. In fact, Groot is my favorite. Yes, I still want to grow a Groot!

I loved that this band of enemies come together to save the galaxy and become friends in the process. Yeah, yeah... I know it sounds corny but I loved it! Chris Pratt rocked it as Quill or "Star Lord" as he likes to be called. Vin Diesel did an amazing job with Groot! Have I mentioned that I want my own Groot?

If you are a fan of the Marvel comics movies, this one does not disappoint! I think you'll really enjoy it! Guardians of the Galaxy comes out Nationwide on Friday, August 1st! Have fun and don't forget the popcorn!

Disclosure: I was given the opportunity to see this movie for the purpose of a review. The opinions are all my own and free of charge!

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Monday, July 21, 2014

Spellbinders Celebra'tions Collection

Have I mentioned how much I love to craft? Well, I do love to craft... oh, yes I do! I actually am lucky enough to have a whole room devoted to my ~~obsession~~ hobby!

When I was offered the chance to try out some new crafty things.... well, the cheering could be heard for miles!

Let me introduce you to Spellbinders Celebra'tions. They are a complete collection of dies, stamps, paper, inks and accessories, all coordinated to work perfectly together. They are great for scrapbooking, card making, rubber stamping... you think of it, you can create it! What I really like is it is all coordinated so it takes the guesswork out of creating your projects!

I had the opportunity to make two cute make and take projects. The first is this really cute birthday card. It was super easy and very fun to make!

Then I made a bag and tag set perfect for gift-giving. Isn't it cute?

Let me brag a little about the stamp pads. The inks used are a unique hybrid of dye and pigment all in one. That means you can use it on all types of materials like paper, fabric, wood and acrylic. They become permanent when heat-set on non-paper materials. How cool is that? I know, right!

So are you all excited to get your craft on? Well one of you lucky readers can win a set of Spellbinders Celebra'tions Clear Polymer Stamps. They are ready to be affixed to any set of blocks, though I think clear works best. Just enter on the Rafflecopter form below.

Now, if you'll excuse me, my craft room is calling me! I need to create!

Disclosure: I was provided these products for the purpose of a review. The opinions are all my own and free of charge!

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Thursday, July 10, 2014

Keep Momming

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting (#MC) for Shire. I received a promotional item as a thank you for participating.

The relationship that exists between mothers and daughters is unlike any other. It has many unique moments, memories, and yes, even challenges along the way. The relationship dynamic can be even trickier when your daughter is in those tween-age years. What can be even more difficult is when some people dismiss certain behaviors as “typical tween girl behavior” when those behaviors can be symptoms of something more serious. Research suggests that girls are more likely than boys to report having mostly inattentive Attention- Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms. Since inattentive symptoms can be less noticeable than hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, it is important that moms know what to look for.

I’m proud to be joining forces with Shire, CHADD and Holly Robinson Peete to announce the launch of keep momming, a new public service initiative geared towards the moms of tween girls to raise awareness of ADHD.

The campaign is anchored within a new digital hub, KeepMomming.com, where you’ll find tips, tools and other go-to resources for moms, including a checklist to help recognize the symptoms of ADHD – inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity – and then encourages moms to talk to their daughter’s doctor. The keep momming initiative can help moms learn about ADHD and provide ideas on how to spark a conversation and stay connected with their tween.

Don’t miss Holly’s message about the keep momming initiative http://goo.gl/3tqd5q, and be sure to check out the website at KeepMomming.com.

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Monday, July 7, 2014

Police Costume equals Pretty Cool!

My son has had a fascination with police from a very young age. I can't count the times he would come out and "arrest" me for making him clean his room! I thought it would be really fun for him to have his own police uniform! Enter CostumerDiscounters.com. They have a great selection of police costumes.

The one I picked is great! When the package came, I called my son in to open it up. You can't believe how excited he was! "Mom, that is so cool!" "Are those real handcuffs?" "How can I possibly wait till Halloween?" "It has a hat AND a badge?" Can I go arrest my sister?" are just a few of the things that came tumbling out of him. And no, I didn't make him wait until Halloween. Ü

The police costume consisted of a police shirt with great official-looking patches on either sleeve, a hat, a badge, black belt, handcuffs, and a baton. He looks pretty handsome if I say so myself!

I was impressed with how quickly our costume came. CostumeDiscounters.com gave me great customer service and I had a fun time searching through all the costumes!

So, it being summer and all, I decided to enlighten my children's cartoon-soaked minds. We did some research on police. Did you know that the New York Sheriff's Office was founded in 1626? I had no idea. My daughter wants to be a forensic scientist or a crime scene investigator, so she actually found some interesting info also.

So, all in all, the costume was a huge hit! We got to have a teaching moment, he loves wearing the costume, and he has a great time enforcing the "law" around our home. Right this minute he is in trying to arrest his sister for not sharing her Nintendo DS. I better go intervene before she has HIM arrested for trespassing!

Disclosure: I received this costume for the purpose of a review. The opinions are all mine and free of charge!

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Labels: costume, parenting

Friday, May 30, 2014

Magnificent Maleficent

Sleeping Beauty was/is one of my favorite Disney Princesses. Maleficent is the Disney villain that scared the bejeebies out of me as a child. Heck, she dressed in black, had a scary crow and could turn into a dragon... who wouldn't be scared! So, when I heard Disney was coming out with the movie Maleficent, I was excited and yes, a little nervous to see it. Okay, mostly excited!

What is Maleficent about? From Disney:

"Maleficent" explores the untold story of Disney’s most iconic villain from the classic “Sleeping Beauty" and the elements of her betrayal that ultimately turn her pure heart to stone. Driven by revenge and a fierce desire to protect the moors over which she presides, Maleficent cruelly places an irrevocable curse upon the human king’s newborn infant Aurora. As the child grows, Aurora is caught in the middle of the seething conflict between the forest kingdom she has grown to love and the human kingdom that holds her legacy. Maleficent realizes that Aurora may hold the key to peace in the land and is forced to take drastic actions that will change both worlds forever.

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So, the day arrived for me to see this movie! I actually did a bit of a happy dance when I arrived! My daughter and I got our cool Maleficent horns, some yummy movie snacks and then settled in ready to be dazzled and amazed. And yes, we were dazzled and amazed!

I loved this movie from the opening scene, all the way to the end! I was so intrigued by Maleficent as a child, then when she was betrayed.... oh my gosh! I can't tell you much without spoiling the movie, and you all deserve to be just as delighted with all the twists and turns as I was! The movie is visually stunning, Angelina Jolie was amazing, and now I want my own crow!

Maleficent opens Nationwide today, May 30th. My daughter saw the movie with me, and then again at a midnight screening. Yes, she loved it that much! So does her momma! Go see it, I think you'll love it!

Disclosure: I had the opportunity to see this movie for the purpose of a review. The opinions are all my own and free of charge!

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