Monday, December 24, 2012

Educational Apps: Fun with Fine Arts, Alphabet

From Oh Factory comes a fresh new educational app that’s aimed at teaching children the alphabet while igniting their interest in the fine arts at the same time.

Art ABC is a sophisticated take on a simple concept: learn the ABC’s in order, making connections between the named letters and the sounds they represent, and use simple words to demonstrate the presence of those letters in reading and writing.

What makes Art ABC special is combining these lessons with gorgeous illustrations drawn from master painters such as Vincent Van Gogh, Renoir, Edgar Degas, and many others. Each interactive frame gives little ones a chance to explore these enriching pieces while encouraging their learning. Each “page” playfully demonstrates the world used to represent the letter in phonics and writing in a new way. Grayed-out images spring to life with vivid color as the narration demonstrates pronunciation. Parents and kids alike will adore this app.

 iPhone: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/art-abc/id577729562?mt=8 

 iPad: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/art-abc-hd/id577730848?mt=8



Friday, December 14, 2012

PROGRESSO RECIPE STARTERS





Looking to serve your family and guests something unique this year?
With options like Cheesy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon or
 Italian Sweet Potato Gratin the hard part will be deciding which one to make!
Then of course there is the eternal question, "What can I make with all
 these leftovers?" Progresso Recipe Starters sauces have the answer with
 recipes like Baked Turkey Hoagie and Turkey Leftover Dinner Casserole that
will transform your leftovers into delicious new food ideas. Available in
 five flavorful varieties, Progresso Recipe Starters can help you surprise and
 delight your family and guests at the main meal and after it!
And let's not forget about the weeknight night! In between those big
holiday meals, busy families are still looking for a little help getting dinner
 on the table. For inspiration, Progresso created 100 recipes utilizing this new
line of cooking sauces that can be found on Progresso.com/RecipeStarters.

Additionally, all the recipes on the site include a Rate and Review feature, so
we encourage you to leave a rating and review of your own. Look for Progresso
 Recipe Starters in the soup aisle!
Inspired by the five "Mother" Sauces that form the basis of classical
French cooking, including Béchamel, Velouté, Tomato, Espagnole and
Hollandaise, Recipe Starters use a variety of ingredients and the best
techniques to make sure you have delicious options
to take on the school days dinner dilemma. The five varieties are:  


Creamy Parmesan Basil: This creamy, full-bodied and indulgent sauce that
was inspired by alfredo and creamy pesto sauces can be used to make dishes such
as Crispy Garlic-Parmesan Chicken, Creamy Chicken Alfredo,  Basil Chicken
Ravioli Carbonara and Basil Chicken Thai Noodle  

Creamy Roasted Garlic with Chicken Stock: With caramelized,  roasted chicken
 broth, garlic and a touch of cream, this stock is perfect for dishes such as Creamy Lemon Chicken, Chicken Pot Pie and Chicken Enchiladas  

Fire Roasted Tomato: A medium-thick tomato sauce, accompanied by flavors
of roasted, caramelized tomatoes, oregano and bell peppers, which can be used as
a great way to begin creating Pulled Chicken Sandwiches, Easy Weeknight Chicken Parmesan, Cheese-stuffed Mini Meat Loaves and Mole Tacos  

Creamy Portabella Mushroom: Creamy and highly indulgent, this smooth 
sauce is rich with sautéed Portabella mushrooms, giving you any easy way to 
start delicious dishes like Easy Weeknight Beef Stroganoff, Steak and Mushroom
Sandwich and Tetrazzini  

Creamy Three Cheese: Rich and creamy with a blend of yellow and white
cheeses, and a savory background of chicken stock, onion, garlic and cracked
 pepper, this is a great way to satisfy cheese lovers with Easy Weeknight
Bacon Mac & Cheese, Twice-Baked Potato Pizza and Cheesy Egg
 Breakfast Tacos

We love the creamy three cheeseIt helps make an excellent mac and cheese
 dinner. Our second favorite is the Fire Roasted Tomato which helps make an
excellent pulled chicken sandwich.

Check out the recipe starters you won't be disappointed!

“Disclosure:  The information, products and Progresso™ Recipe Starters™ gift packs were provided by Progresso through MyBlogSpark.”

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

HGG 2012 Progressive International Kitchen tools Giveaway

My absolute favorite tools to use in the kitchen are from Progressive International. I have had the opportunity to review many of their tools and have ALWAYS been impressed with them.



 I was also recently gifted their Chrome Wire Fruit Bowl which sits on my dining room table. It is sturdy and large and is perfect for Shane to grab a piece of fruit from for a snack.

 Two of the newest tools I have been given to review are the Jumbo potato cutter and the 6- piece grater set.




 I have to start with the Jumbo potato cutter which I absolutely love.

 In fact I would say its my favorite tool so far. The Jumbo potato cutter cuts large whole potatoes in one motion. Also great for carrots, zucchini and yams. Features 2 blades for small and large sticks and an extra strong suction base to eliminate slipping.



 It makes excellent sweet potato fries and the other day it was a huge time saver when I was making potato soup and needed 6 cups of cubed potatoes. I just made the potatoes into fries using the Jumbo potato cutter and then quickly cubed them with a knife. I am seriously in love with this tool.
 You can purchase it for $21.95 on Amazon.

 I also really love the 6- piece grater set.



 It prevents the huge mess my old grater used to make when I graded cheese. It includes 4 inserts, frame and 3 cup measuring container. Grater inserts shred, slice, grate and zest. The inserts fit into the measuring container for compact storage. Non skid feet keep the container from moving while grating. Dishwasher safe. It also has a protective piece that you put between your hand and the cheese to prevent you from cutting your fingers while grating.

It is so nice to have the cheese fall into the measuring container where it is measured easily and contained vs a traditional grater which is very messy.

You can purchase the 6- piece grater set for $16.65 on Amazon


Any tool from progressive would make an excellent gift for anyone who enjoys to cook on your list.

Progressive International has offered one of my readers a 6- piece grater set and a Jumbo potato cutter. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway





Tuesday, December 4, 2012

HGG 2012 VTech InnoTab 2S

One of the Hottest Toys out this holiday season is the VTech InnoTab 2S.



Shane was so so so excited to have the InnoTab 2S.




It has some really nice features for him including a rotatable camera and video recorder so he can take pictures like mom :) He loves the mp3 player, video player and art studio. He spends a lot of time listening to music and watching videos on his InnoTab2s.

The InnoTab 2S comes with a 2GB onboard memory and expandable SD card slot available to accommodate SD cards up to 32GB. Plenty of room for music, pictures and videos. 

 A new feature only available on the 2s is a secure Wi-Fi connection to VTech’s Learning Lodge Navigator for easy and secure downloading of games, e-books, music and more. Shane can e-mail me a list of the games and e-books he wants.  VTech has thought of everything. They even designed the 2S to automatically turn off the WIFI when not in use.

 Once I have downloaded a new app from the Learning Lodge Navigator, I can sync the program to his InnoTab 2S wirelessly . It can even be done without a cord when he is in a Wi-Fi hotspot location.

Some other features include
 -a 5” touch screen
 -Ability to create a user name and avatar, a voice greeting, typed greeting and photo wallpaper
 -the ability to download more than 200 additional apps, including games, e-books and much more that teach kids reading, logic and creativity through the VTech Learning Lodge Navigator™ at www.VTechKids.com/Download. 

As a Certified Teacher I have to say my favorite feature from VTech is the VTech University

VTech University features:

• An Engaging Curriculum: VTech University is designed to focus on the fundamental areas
of reading, math and science – three subjects that children in the U.S. continue to fall
behind in.
○ Is Expert Approved – Upon enrollment, the first assignment is to watch an
entertaining video lesson from Dr. Eric Klopfer, Professor and VTech Advisory
Board Member, telling his new “students” what to expect from the program, and
how fun it can be to learn something new.
○ Track Your Child’s Progress – Free curriculum can be downloaded to a child’s
registered VTech product on the Learning Lodge Navigator. Once connected, the
devices will track completed courses on the VTech University website so kids
can pick up where they left off in the curriculum each day and parents can check
in on their progress.
○ Advanced Learning Through Honors Curriculum – VTech University also
offers an Honors Curriculum with three alternative games that can be purchased
at a discounted rate of just $6.99.
• A Head Start to College: Graduates of the program will not only receive a diploma at
such an early age, but will have the chance to win a $25,000 college bond upon
completion of their curriculum.
○ Children enrolled in VTech University will have through May 31, 2013 to
complete the curriculum.
For more information on how to enroll in VTech University today, visit www.VTechKids.com/ university.



I just love that I can track Shane's progress. It is so neat to see what he has learned and how far he has gone in the curriculum. 

Over all I would highly recommend the VTech InnoTab 2S

It provides so many options to keep kids entertained and learning. A camera, video camera, Mp3 player, video player, game player and book reader all in one.

The only thing I don't like is the prices of the downloads and software.  It can cost quite a bit of money to get a nice variety of games/books etc.





 “I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for VTech and received a VTech InnoTab 2S to facilitate my review."

Monday, December 3, 2012

HGG 2012 Conair Giveaway

Conair is my go to brand for all things hair. My hairdryer, straightener, curling iron, brushes ad hair accessories are Conair brand.

Conair hair products make excellent gifts.

They are always releasing new must have products and the Conair® Quick Gems is no exception. 


Glam up your hairstyle with the Conair Quick Gems! This versatile tool bejewels hair automatically; it’s the perfect gift for girly-girls! It can be used to accent almost any hairstyle and can create different looks whether you want to have a single full strand of jewels on one strip of hair from root to tip or scatter the jewels throughout the hair to give a sparkling look all over. 

 
The gem cartridge holds up to 18 jewels and rotates automatically to easily attach gems to hair in seconds! The jeweler comes with 24 reusable, easy on-easy off jewels in two sizes and four shapes –it really is the gift that keeps on giving. Tell your girls to get their sparkle on this season with the Conair Quick Gems!
Conair Quick Gems are available nationwide at mass market and drugstore retailers, as well as at www.conair.com, for an average retail price of $28.99. 

The Quick gems will make an excellent gift for tweens and teens this holiday season. 
and to add to the fun check out their Impressions Cushion Brush and Topsy Tail both excellent stocking stuffers. I own both of these and love them. 


Their cushion brush is soft and doesn't pull on my hair when I brush it and the Topsy Tail is great for creating the perfect style for the holidays or special event. 


Conair has been kind enough to offer one of my readers all 3 products 
(The Quick gems, Cushion Brush and Topsy Tail)





a Rafflecopter giveaway




 

Thursday, November 29, 2012

HGG 2012 Scentchips Fragrances and Warmers



Have you heard of Scentchips?

Scentchips are the original fragrance melts.

Family owned and operated, Scentchips® began as a small endeavor and has blossomed into a product that is now available World Wide.

Scentchips pioneered the home fragrance industry by creating the fragrance melt concept over 33 years ago.  Since 1979, Scentchips® have been hand made in the original San Antonio, Texas factory, located in the historic La Villita Village.  We welcome visitors everyday to watch the production process - it's a unique experience!

In 2001, the Scentchips Full Line Store program launched with the opening of a retail store just outside of Dayton, Ohio. There are now 25 locations across the United States and Australia, with distributors in many countries around the world.


Scentchips offer a variety of warmers including
  • Plug-In
  • Electric
  • Pottery
  • Holiday
  • Tealight 

They also offer a variety of fragrances including  Create-a-Scent where you can combine and make your own. How cool is that!



I was sent a couple of warmers and 3 boxes of scents.

I really like Scentchips.  My favorite scent so far is Snowman ( a mix of peppermint and vanilla).  There are so many warmers and scents to choose from its hard to pick just a few. I really like the option to create your own scent.  When I run out of my current scentchips, I plan to order a scent I create.
Scentchips are quite strong so you don't need a lot at a time. This is great because one box will last quite a while. 

One of the other scents I received, that I really like, is the Calypso. The box that the chips come in has small holes on top allowing you to preview the scent without having to open the box.  I placed the box in my closet and the Calypso scent that escaped from the top of the box made my whole closet smell amazing. They also offer sachets which would be perfect for your closet or drawers.

You can purchase the Scentchips products online HERE or search for a store in your area using their Store Locator HERE.



They have Gift Packs on sale now for $12.95 that include your choice of fragrance and warmer, and two tea light candles all wrapped in a sachet. These would be absolutely perfect as gifts this holiday season.




Tuesday, November 27, 2012

HGG 2012 Toilettree Professional Skin Care System Giveaway

We own several products from Toilettree including my husbands favorite fogless shower mirror. I had been browsing their website and found the Professional Skin Care System and knew I had to have it.




The Toilettree Professional Skin Care System includes:
2 face exfoliaters (1 soft for sensitive skin types & 1 medium for normal skin types), 1 body exfoliater and 1 pumice sphere.

 -Rotating facial and body brush for deep cleansing and exfoliating.

-Helps to reduce the appearance of problem areas such as: oily skin, dry patches, fine lines, blemishes, visible pores, blackheads and wrinkles.

-Ideal for the preparation and removal process of cosmetics.

-Gentle massage actions helps to stimulate new skin cell production creating firmer & healthy glowing skin.

I love this facial brush. I use it while in the shower and my face feels amazing after. I have even caught my husband using it. The Professional Skin Care System would make an excellent gift this holiday season.

Toliettree Movember Giveaway/contest

The Movemeber Giveaway: Anyone can enter this contest for the chance to win a ToiletTree Products Deluxe LED Fogless Shower Mirror.
The Grand Prize Movemeber Giveaway: Anyone who enters the contest above, and then donates $10 to the ToiletTree Products Movemeber team gets the opportunity to win over $200 in prizes from ToiletTree. (ALL money raised gets donated to the cause)
Movemeber Stache' Contest: Any man (or woman!) out there who is participating in Movemeber and uploads their picture to the Stache' Contest page on our Facebook has the opportunity to win over $100 in prizes at the end of the month. Whoever has the most "likes" on their picture wins!

You can visit our Facebook Page to enter all of these contests: http://www.facebook.com/pages/ToiletTree-Products
To learn more about Movemeber you can visit their website: http://us.movember.com

ToiletTree has offered one of my readers a Professional Skin Care System

1. Leave a comment below ( INCLUDING your E-mail Address) telling me your favorite feature of the Professional Skin Care System.

2.  Bonus entry   Visit http://toilettreeproducts.com/  Leave a comment letting me know another product you would like to own.

Giveaway ends  12/7



Monday, November 26, 2012

HGG 2012 SOUNDFREAQ Bluetooth Speakers

Looking for a great gift this holiday season? I have to suggest SOUNDFREAQ Bluetooth Speakers compatible with Apple and Android.




SOUNDFREAQ offers a budget-friendly option for under $100 with its award-winning Sound Kick portable, wireless speaker. Compatible with any Bluetooth device, the Soundfreaq Sound Kick speaker enables the whole family to listen to their favorite holiday tunes with full, clear sound. No need to attach your iPod or smartphone since the wireless speakers allow you to keep your device with you at all times.

 I love the SOUNDFREAQ sound kick speaker. I am able to listen to my music controlling the speaker with my smartphone, tablet or computer. This is great when I am in the kitchen doing dishes or bedroom folding laundry. Instead of dropping what I am doing and running to the speaker to change the song or volume, I can now grab my iPhone or iPad and quickly adjust the volume or song choice using bluetooth. Plus the sound is so clear. Way clearer than my previous speaker.

My favorite features are the built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery (that lasted me 6 hours), the universal USB power port that charges my iphone ( even running on the battery power) and the fact that it is so compact without compromising great sound.



 The unit slides open to play and closes making it take up very little space and making it easy to transport.  It comes in a variety of cool colors from your traditional black and white to new Chromatic Sunset, Ocean and Twilight.

 I love this Speaker, it's a great device for whole family and is easy to share. It will be compatible with future devices that have Bluetooth too so you don't have to worry when you upgrade your device. 

 • Sound Kick is available nationwide at Target, Radio Shack, Walmart, and Sears stores.
• Sound Kick is available online on Target.com, Soundfreaq.com, Bestbuy.com, Staples.com, Kohls.com


 “I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of Soundfreaq and received a product sample to facilitate my review.”

Saturday, November 24, 2012

HGG 2012 Febreze Holiday Collection Giveaway


Febreze has released some new holiday scents this year. Febreze noticeables, spray and candles are great way to keep your home smelling nice for the holidays.

 This is our first holiday season in our new home and we already have a lot of holiday company scheduled to visit. I will be relying on the febreze noticeables to keep my house smelling festive.



There are six new holiday scents this year
Apple Spice & Delight: The warming scent of fresh-baked apples coated with sweet cinnamon (available only online)
Cozy Vanilla Sugar: Sweet as notes of vanilla that comfort you like a cocoon of blankets
Cranberries and Frost: Rich as ripe cranberries and frost on a white winter’s day
Glistening Alpine: As soothing as a tree-lined mountainside glistening with the scent of pine
Winter Magic & Glow: Crisp as sunshine-lit icicles in fresh, frosty air
Holiday Bloom & Cheer: As cheerful as a chorus of holiday aromas blended with winter blossoms

I love the Cozy Vanilla Sugar. It is strong enough to make my house smell nice but not overpowering. it's a great finishing touch to my holiday decorating.

If your looking for Holiday decorating ideas Febreze has teamed up with Candice Olson   

Discover decorating tips and ways to make your home more inviting for the holidays with videos from design expert Candice Olson at Walmart.com/Febreze

you can find Febreze on


Febreze has offered one of my readers a $10 Febreze coupon booklet and a $15 Visa gift card.

To enter leave me a comment below and tell me which scent you would use to set the mood for the season or which spray, NOTICEables®, or candle you would consider to be the perfect finishing touch to your holiday home.

* please also leave your e-mail in your comment so I can contact you if you are the winner 

Contest Ends 12/7 

Friday, November 23, 2012

HGG 2012 Half Bath beautifully redone with Danze Faucet

When we moved into our house this past August, we had a bunch of projects lined up to do. I love this house but a lot of things were not my style/taste.

Due the the fact that I was 37 weeks pregnant those projects had to wait till after Jacey was here. One of the first projects we did was our half bath.  It was important to us to have a nice half bath because that is one of the places our company would see when they visit.

The people before us had 3 white walls and a dark blue accent wall behind the toilet that was disgusting. On top of the ugly color choices was an outdated faucet. We didn't have the funds to gut the whole bathroom and replace everything, ( although that would have been nice if we could) so we had to repaint and replace certain items.

You would be surprised what fresh coat of paint and a nice new Danze Faucet can do. Our half bath looks so beautiful now. 

 Here it is before as we prepped to paint and replace.












Here it is after it was painted and the new faucet was added





We just love our half bath now and so do our guests.  We get a ton of complements on our faucet. 

If you haven't heard of Danze they make contemporary,  traditional and transitional
high quality kitchen and bathroom faucets. As well as sinks, toilets, showerheads and accessories.

The faucet used in our half bath is the  Bannockburn™ Mini-Widespread Lavatory Faucet.

This faucet comes in chrome, oil rubbed bronze and brushed nickel.  Ours is the brushed nickel.  This particular faucet features
  • 3 hole mount.
  • 5" high spout, 4" spout length.
  • Ceramic disc valve provides a tight seal, ensuring durability over time.
  • Compliant with low lead content requirements of California AB-1953 and Vermont Act 193.
  • Touch down drain assembly. 
It retails for between $261.00 - $379.00 depending on the finish. 

Danze makes many different style faucets to fit your bathroom or kitchen perfectly. 
We love Danze products so much that when we redo the kids bathroom in the spring, we will be replacing the existing faucet with a new Danze faucet.  

Danze would make an excellent holiday gift for the new homeowner, family or friends this holiday season.

You can check out all the products they have to offer HERE



 


 

Monday, November 19, 2012

HGG 2012 Jeep® Cherokee Sport Stroller Giveaway



Jeep® Cherokee Sport Stroller from Kolcraft



I own several products from Kolcraft and love them. They are quality made and are very stylish and functional. I have been looking for a stroller for Jacey that would provide some of the features our bigger stroller has like an under-basket and tray and cup holder but that was smaller, lighter and easier to transport.

 I knew I could count on Jeep and was lucky to find the Jeep® Cherokee Sport Stroller.
 It even comes in PINK. For me that was a nice bonus as most of what I own is from Shane and more Boyish colored.



The Jeep® Cherokee Sport Stroller Features:
-Lightweight & compact frame for easy travel
 - Convenient one-hand and self-standing fold design
 - Removable parent tray with dual cup holders
- Multi-position reclining seat back
- Removable snack tray with dual cup and juice box holder
 - 5 x 6 shock absorbing sport wheels
- Adjustable canopy
 - 3-point quick release buckle
 - Large storage basket plus cargo bags for gear

This is the perfect light weight stroller with all the features and more than I could have wanted.



 One of my favorite features is the one-hand self standing fold. It folds up so easy with one hand and self stands. I will be able to get Jacey in the car and not worry about the stroller falling over in the meantime. 

My other favorite feature is that the seat adjusts to a full laying position so Jacey can lay down and take a nap or sit upright.

This stroller has it all! It is available in Red (React) or pink (siren) at Amazon for $59.99 or Walmart for $49.50.

 One of my readers will win a Jeep® Cherokee Sport Stroller

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sunday, November 18, 2012

HGG 2012 MicroDry® Products Giveaway

MicroDry® Products are becoming very popular this season. These products range from bathmats to rugs. They contain memory foam that makes them so plush and comfortable.

We have owned a  MicroDry® bath mat for a year now and love it. Stepping out of the shower onto memory foam is so nice.  I was more than thrilled to be given the chance to review some other MicroDry® products.

I was sent the the  Microdry® Ultimate Luxury Memory Foam Kitchen Mat - Black



 










Kitchen mat provides luxurious cushioning. The inside of the mat has 1/2" of memory foam that cradles your feet in comfort, while the plush pebbled top fabric adds a stylish dimension. Slip-resistant base helps it to stay in place when used on a dry surface. Face is 100% polyester with a 100% polyurethane foam fill and 100% textured styrene butadiene rubber base. Measures 32" W x 22" L.    
This mat matches very well in our kitchen and I just love it.  It's really nice when I am half awake in the middle of the night making bottles for my newborn daughter.  So much better to stand on than the cold floor beneath it.  

















 I was also sent the MicroDry® Spring Tan Memory Foam Rug 30" x 44"  



You'll always want to go barefoot at home with this ultra-soft and cushioned rug that's perfect for any room. Featuring Memory Foam HD™, this rug is ultra-resilient and supports your every step for incredible comfort. The SoftSpun™ microfiber top combines a lustrous, silky sheen with extraordinary softness. And underneath it all is a built-in rug pad for slip-resistance and added durability. Face is 100% SoftSpun™ micro-polyester; fill is 100% polyurethane foam; base is PVC and polyester.

This rug goes perfect in front of our bed. It is very modern and soft to step on. I love the slip-resistant pad underneath. It makes so the rug doesn't bunch up. This rug would be great for any room. I highly recommend it.

These items can be purchased at Bed Bath and Beyond.

 Microdry has also been kind enough to offer one of my readers the same kitchen and spring tan rugs I received.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Friday, November 16, 2012

HGG2012 FRAAS TECH GLOVES

FRAAS ADDS TECH GLOVES TO ITS WINTER COLLECTION: GREAT LOOKING KNIT STYLING THAT IS TOUCH SCREEN COMPATIBLE.




Don't just get regular gloves this year get FRASS TOUCH SCREEN COMPATABLE GLOVES. These gloves are not only comfortable and warm but making using your touch device a breeze. You no longer have to remove your gloves to answer your smart phone, change music on your ipod or control any other touch screen device. F

RAAS offers 3 chic options--retailing for about $30--a long scrunch, a ruffle, and a bow--22 options total in all the colors. These are not something to be missed as a self or gift purchase. Anyone with a touch screen device will want a few pair! Those without a device will appreciate the attractive styling and affordable pricing plus one size fits all for buying ease.

 Keeping with cutting-edge design, FRAAS introduces these gloves with tech finger tips that are so well-matched to the glove, they are almost invisible. This offers a stylish and more lady-like approach for the tech-savvy customer.

ORDER DIRECTLY FROM THE COMPANY BY CALLING 212-575-0191. SELECT STYLES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE AT fraas.com and amazon.com
 

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Shop for Toys the Toys-R-Us Store on eBay this holiday season

The holidays are upon us! Have you started your holiday shopping yet?

I have done some shopping online already. I have found some amazing deals online this year. I love shopping online because it is is way less stressful than fighting crowds in stores and I can shop any time day or night. I Usually shop after its quiet and my kids are in bed. It's hard to do that in store as most stores and closed by then but easy to do online. Plus it is great to have things shipped directly to my door, instead of lugging them around a store and then inside my house from my car.

Did you know eBay has the hottest toys your kids want this holiday season!



You can shop the Toys-R-Us store on eBay and get access to the same great toy selection and service from Toys-R-Us without ever leaving eBay. 

There is even an eBay mobile app that makes it convenient to shop anywhere, anytime. I have this app and love it.  I used it the other day to show my Dad the trampoline Shane wants for our backyard and I installed it on my husbands phone in case he decides to make a last minute purchase.

Not sure what to buy yet? Check out this great Gift Guide from eBay that includes the top Holiday Toys from Toys-R-Us. You'll be sure to find something great for that special kid in your life.

We used it to create a wish list for Shane this year. 

Here are ten toys from his wish list

LeapFrog LeapPad2 Explorer Learning Tablet - Green

Fisher-Price Jake and the Never Land Pirates - Musical Pirate Ship Bucky

Nintendo 3DS Handheld Gaming System - Flame Red 

The Home Depot Master Workshop

Hot Wheels Remote Control Terrain Twister Vehicle - Red

Power Wheels Fisher-Price Dune Racer Ride On

Flyline Air Racer Remote Control Plane - Knight Ghost

Nerf N-Strike Elite Retaliator Blaster 

Skywalker 15 foot Round Trampoline and Enclosure Combo - Green 

iTikes Map



I love Shopping at the Toys-R-Us store on eBay because I get access to the same great toy selection and service from Toys-R-Us without ever leaving eBay.  Every toy Shane wanted this year could be found at the Toys-R-Us store on eBay making it easy for not only me but family and friends to shop for him this year.

“I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour for Mom Central Consulting on behalf of eBay. I received a product sample to thank me for taking the time to participate.”
 



Tuesday, November 13, 2012

RSV and Preemie Awareness

I had a baby September 1st.  I was lucky that she was healthy and full term.  Many babies are born preemies. In fact 13 million babies are born early every year, including more than half a million in the United States.

Preemie Awareness Day is November 17th.
This is a day to help Parents fully understand the increased risks that come with premature birth and the specialized health care that preemies often require.

Having a preemie makes that baby increases their risk of contracting a life threatening illness'.

Young infants are very susceptible to infection in the early weeks of their lives, so contracting something as small as the common cold can present danger. This is especially true for babies born early, because they have underdeveloped lungs and immature immune systems.

Did you know that 79 percent of preemie moms have a baby who was hospitalized due to a severe respiratory infection?

One virus in particular that parents of preemies should know about is respiratory syncytial virus, commonly known as RSV.

 • RSV is the leading cause of infant hospitalization, and severe RSV disease causes up to 10 times as
many infant deaths each year as the flu.
• RSV is most prevalent during the winter months. The CDC has defined the “RSV season” as
beginning in November and lasting through March for most parts of North America.
• In addition to prematurity, common risk factors include low birth weight, certain lung or heart
diseases, a family history of asthma and frequent contact with other children.



Prevention is Key
RSV is very contagious and can be spread easily through touching, sneezing and coughing. Since there’s no treatment for RSV, parents should take the following preventive steps to help protect their child:
• Wash hands, toys, bedding, and play areas frequently
• Ensure you, your family, and any visitors in your home wash their hands or use hand sanitizer
• Avoid large crowds and people who are or have been sick
• Never let anyone smoke near your baby
• Speak with your child’s doctor if he or she may be at high risk for RSV, as a preventive therapy may
be available

Know the Symptoms
Contact your child’s pediatrician immediately if your child exhibits one or more of the following:
• Severe coughing,  wheezing or rapid gasping breaths
• Blue color on the lips, mouth, or under the fingernails
• High fever and extreme fatigue

I have become very educated on RSV and have taken many steps to try and prevent my daughter from contracting it.
 
Please take a moment to visit  RSVProtection.com to learn more about RSV!


 "I wrote this review while participating in a campaign for Mom Central Consulting on behalf of MedImmune and I received a promotional item to thank me for my participation." 

HGG 2012 CINDERELLA II & III: 2-MOVIE COLLECTION

Available for a Limited Time on Blu-rayTM Combo Pack, DVD and Digital - November 20th




Synopsis:
The fairytale story of Disney’s beloved Princess Cinderella continues in a 2- Movie Collection Special Edition of Cinderella II: Dreams Come True and Cinderella III: A Twist In Time for the first time in Blu-rayTM! Your favorite characters return with double the magic and more memorable music. Share this perfect holiday gift with the princess in your life before it returns to the Disney Vault. Available for a limited time November 20.
Cinderella II: Dreams Come True Special Edition
As a newly crowned princess, Cinderella quickly learns that life at the Palace— and her royal responsibilities are more challenging than she had imagined. In three heartwarming tales, Cinderella calls on her animal friends and her Fairy Godmother to help as she brings her own grace and charm to her regal role and discovers that being true to yourself is the best way to make your dreams come true.
Cinderella III: A Twist In Time Special Edition
Princess Cinderella is living a charmingly perfect life until her stepmother gets her hands on Fairy Godmother’s magic wand. With a wicked spell that turns back the clock, she erases the Prince’s memories of the girl he met at the ball and shatters Cinderella’s happily ever after! Jaq and Gus scurry to save the day before time runs out. But was it all really just a dream in Cinderella’s heart, or will true love triumph over all?

Bonus Features:
Cinderella II: Dreams Come True Special Edition
Becoming a Princess – 1st Edition (New for Special Edition)
A girl will go to "princess school" to receive tips on how to behave like royalty, then become physically transformed into a Disney Princess (dress, hair, make- up) at the Bibbidi-Bobbidi Boutique in Walt Disney World. Now dressed as a princess, she will practice what she learned.
Musical Magic
“Put It Together” Music Video
Cinderella III: A Twist In Time Special Edition
Becoming a Princess – 2nd Edition (New for Special Edition)
A girl will go to "princess school" to receive tips on how to behave like royalty, then become physically transformed into a Disney Princess (dress, hair, make- up) at the Bibbidi-Bobbidi Boutique in Walt Disney World. Now dressed as a princess, she will practice what she learned.

3-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack (1 Blu-ray+ 2 DVD) = $39.99 U.S. / $46.99 Canada
2-Disc DVD = $29.99 U.S. / $35.99 Canada
Digital Download = Please check with your television provider or favorite digital retailer for pricing 


Excellent stocking stuffer for that special little girl in your life. 

Sunday, November 11, 2012

HGG 2012 SANTA PAWS 2: THE SANTA PUPS 11/20

“SANTA PAWS 2: THE SANTA PUPS”




 The New Litter Arrives This Holiday Season on Disney Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and HD Digital on November 20, 2012


About the Film: The North Pole has a new litter of playful pups! However, when the frisky foursome—Hope, Jingle, Charity and Noble—practically destroy Santa’s Workshop with their mischievous gamboling, they realize the best way to prove that they’re responsible enough to become Santa’s Helpers is to show how well they can spread the Christmas spirit all by themselves. With help from a magic crystal, they start granting everyone’s wishes. But their good intentions backfire when one unhappy boy asks that Christmas go away forever! With his wish impetuously fulfilled, and the joyous spirit quickly disappearing from the planet, Mrs. Claus and the pups have to find a way to reverse the spell—or risk losing Christmas forever!


About The Pups: This cute litter consists of three female pups and one male pup. HOPE is the daring tomboy who wears a backwards red cap and rarely looks before she leaps. JINGLE is the diva with a bell on her collar who loves to sing, but can’t carry a tune. CHARITY is the girliest and most self-centered of the pups, with a mistletoe barrette, who has yet to learn the meaning of her name. And NOBLE is the mischievous only brother and self-appointed leader who is distinguished by a cheeky black spot.


 Blu-rayTM Combo Pack (Blu-ray + DVD) for $39.99 U.S.
 1-Disc DVD for $29.99 U.S., and
 High Definition Digital for $39.99 U.S.

This is an Excellent kids movie for the holidays!

Thursday, November 8, 2012

HGG 2012 Delta Faucet

As we are finally settled in our new house I am beginning to make changes to the things I don't like and customize them to my liking. One of the things I really hated was our bathroom faucets. The one in our master was outdated and ugly.

 I have a beautiful Delta Faucet in my kitchen that is not only stylish but very functional.




So I wanted the same for my Master Bathroom. I was beyond thrilled to review the Delta Addison Single Handle Lavatory Faucet with Touch2O.xt™ Technology in Stainless Steel.





 This faucet has Delta's new Touch2O.xt™ technology which allows you to
  • Activate the flow of water by just moving close to the faucet - it senses your presence anywhere 4″ around it.
  • Or activate the flow of water by touching anywhere on the spout or handle.

  • Its really great when you have stuff on your hands not to have to touch the handle of the faucet to get it to turn on an off.  We have been doing other remodeling projects around the house and I can run quickly into the bathroom and touch the faucet with my wrist and get my hands clean without making a huge mess. Plus it looks awesome in our bathroom.

    Here is a before picture and an after video showing how the faucet looks and works. 









    The Addison faucet retails for $423.20 and would make an excellent gift for the Holidays this year.

    Wednesday, November 7, 2012

    HGG 2012 MOHAWK HOME RUG GIVEAWAY $150

    I am a Huge Fan of Mohawk Rugs. They have the best selection of rug designs, they are made in America and they are top quality.




     Last year I was given the opportunity to review a beautiful rug from Mohawk that now sits in our new Living room. Honestly it makes our living room look amazing. It ties everything together so well

    Check it out for yourself. Isn't it beautiful!


    So of course when we decided to redo our loft the first thing I thought of was adding a Mohawk rug. 
    After looking through all the options I thought the Mohawk Home Firework Display Seed Pearl Rug would look great in the loft.  We are going to match the green in the rug and paint the wall with the window and the wall behind the futon the same color green.  

    Before




     After 

    My son is already enjoying this rug while watching tv and playing the wii.





     Mohawk rugs would make an excellent gift this holiday season. Who couldn't use a nice rug to add to their home.

    Mohawk has been kind enough to offer one of my readers any Mohawk Home rug up to size 5x8 and under $150. 


     a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Monday, November 5, 2012

    THE YUMMY GUMMY SEARCH FOR SANTA DVD 11/6

    AVAILABLE TOMORROW 11/6 YUMMY GUMMY SEARCH FOR SANTA DVD
    The internet sensation Gummibär makes his feature length film debut in Gummibär: The Yummy Gummy Search For Santa available on DVD, Digital Download and On Demand on November 6 from Lionsgate Home Entertainment. With over 2 Billion views on YouTube to date, “The Gummy Bear Song,” is the #1 most viewed “Film & Animation” video on YouTube of all time. Now in his first fun-filled movie, Gummibär uses his charm, lovability and dancing skills to rescue Santa from Aliens and save Christmas. The DVD also includes six fun bonus music videosfeaturing your favorite singing and dancing green gummy bear. Arriving just in time for the gift-giving season, Gummibär:The Yummy Gummy Search For Santa DVD is the perfect holiday gift for animation fans, kids of all ages, families as well as anyone who loves Christmas movies. The DVD will be available for the suggested retail price of $14.98. SYNOPSIS When Santa is reported missing on Christmas Eve, Gummibär and his band of wacky, misfit friends shake their booties from the North Pole to the tropics on a madcap search. But when they discover Santa was abducted by a dance-crazed alien, the fate of Christmas morning rests in the hands -- and feet -- of our lovable green gummy bear! Featuring the #1 hit "I Am A Gummy Bear (The Gummy Bear Song)” two holiday-themed songs and other Gummibär hits, saving Christmas has never been this much fun! DVD SPECIAL FEATURES* · “Christmas Is Coming” music video · “You Know It’s Christmas” music video · “La La I Love You” music video · “Go For The Goal” music video · “Mr Mister Gummibär” music video · “Bubble Up” music video Great for now or a stocking stuffer for the holidays!