Jumpin-Beans

Don't Forget: The Big Year - Available January 31

2012-01-28T06:00:00.000-05:00

ComedicIcons Steve Martin, Jack Black and Owen Wilson Star in the HilariousOutdoor Adventure Coming to Blu-ray and DVD January 31!

BirdBuddies

Brad(Jack Black) tells his father that he can relate to a certain birdspecies because both he and the bird are both generallyunderestimated. Here, after taking this quiz, you'll be able to seewhat kind of bird you might most closely resemble. Are you an aviddecorator like the bowerbird? Do you like to show off your dancemoves to impress the ladies like a riflebird? You'll know for surewhat bird best suits your personality after taking our test!

SteveMartin, Jack Black and Owen Wilson portray three men from verydifferent walks of life, facing a mid-life crisis, a work-life crisisand a no-life crisis. In the biggest competition of their lives,they undertake an unforgettable trek through North America, engagingin hilarious and bizarre adventures and forming friendships that willlast a lifetime!

WhatBird Are You?

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Australia, for sure!
I’ve always wanted to explore a tropical rainforest!
I don’t like to travel; I’d rather just stay home.
I can’t choose just one place! I want to travel everywhere!

How do you attract a member of the opposite sex?

I give make them something unique, or give them a memorable present.
I woo the opposite sex with my sweet dance moves!
I show them that I will be committed and protective of them in the future.
I treat them as my equal and try to find an activity we can share with one another.

What is your favorite color?

Anything bright and flashy!
Blue
Yellow
Brown

What is your hidden talent?

I’m really crafty; I can make cool things from common objects.
I’m a great dancer!
I’ve been told I have an interesting singing voice!
I’m super resilient – I can do a lot on little sleep and with few or no breaks.

How would you describe your personality?

I’m really complex, so I can’t succinctly describe my personality.
I’m outgoing and independent – the life of the party!
I’m a homebody, but I’m fun to be around and really protective of the things and people I love.
I have tons of friends and live a sort of jet set lifestyle – I’m definitely a world traveler.

MostlyA’s

Youare most like a bowerbird! Bowerbirds are renowned for their unique(and crafty!) courtship behavior. Males will build structures (calledbowers) out of sticks and brightly colored objects in an attempt toattract a mate. Bowerbirds are also extremely good at mimicking othercreatures, including pigs, waterfalls, and human chatter. Thiscomplex behavior has led many to believe that bowerbirds are the mostbehaviorally complex species of bird. Bowerbirds are mainly found invarying parts of Australia.

MostlyB’s

You’rea riflebird! Male riflebirds are polygamous and known for theirflashy mating “dance.” During this courtship display, the malewill fully extend his wings, raise his tail and hop upward whileswinging his head (allowing him to show off his blue-green breastshield). Female riflebirds observe this “dance” and, ifsatisfied, will reward the male by mating with him. The females thentake care of their young without male assistance. These birds aremainly found in the rainforests of New Guinea and NortheasternAustralia.

MostlyC’s

Youare a blue tit! One thing that blue tits are known for is being“resident” birds, meaning that they do not migrate. Blue tits arevery popular garden birds in Europe due to their perky acrobaticperformances and interesting calls when feeding. Blue tits are alsovery protective of their nests and eggs, and exhibit a lot of excitedbehavior when feeding and nesting. Blue tits will also nest in anysuitable hole, including artificial nesting boxes (most birds willnot readily settle in an artificial nesting box).

MostlyD’s

You’remost like a bar-tailed godwit! The bar-tailed godwit migrates inflocks to places like East Asia, Alaska, New Zealand, Australia,Africa and northwestern Europe. Bar-tailed godwits take the longestnon-stop flight of any bird species, traveling from New Zealand tothe Yellow Sea in China! These birds also share the responsibility ofincubating and caring for their young between both the males and thefemales.

You can click HERE to read my review on the movie.

Just wanted to remind you it was available on January 31st.

They're That Good! @Guylian_Chocs #Giveaway

2012-01-27T00:01:00.000-05:00

I love chocolate... Yes, I surely DO!
I would eat it pretty much all the time, but I know better...
I wish I was a fan of dark chocolate, as it is healthier for you...
But, I just can not do it... Something about it, just doesn't work for me...

That was until I tried the Guylian Dark Chocolate!
Wow. They are that good! How good is that? So good that I am in love with their dark chocolate.
So good that the boys loved their dark chocolate. So good that I normally pawn off the dark chocolate to Broxton or Marc (for me to eat more of the other, but this time, I was trying to decide how to limit what I would share!)

I was sent a generous amount of these beautiful creations, Guylian Chocolate...
Yes, I say beautiful creations, since it can not simply be called Chocolate.
It is Belgian Chocolate that is a piece of art as well. Belgian Truffles!

I was surprised as to how pretty each piece was. Then, the boys saw the chocolate! We sampled, we tried to be patient, but it was so good that we were quickly taken away to a place of sheer enjoyment! The boys were impressed with how they were shaped..Some were seahorses... Some were seashells... All were perfect!

The story of how Guylian got it's name is just as beautiful as the treat they represent.
Guy married the love of his life, Liliane... Joined in love, joined in work!
Each piece of this chocolate is from their original handcrafted recipe... Each piece made in small batches. Each made in copper kettles... Each made in Belgium!

Now, as I said... this isn't your every day chocolate...
This is chocolate to be savored. To be enjoyed. To be celebrated....
That being said, there is nothing better than a "Sweet for your Sweet" this Valentines Day!

So..........

One lucky reader is going to win an amazing array of products:

What will you win?!

-One winner (1) of the following products:

One – 22 piece box of Guylian Artisanal Belgian Original Chocolate Truffles

Two - 6 piece Original Chocolate Truffle Box

Four - 2 piece Original Chocolate Truffle Box

FTC Compliant Review Policy: The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The End of Molasses Classes - Book review

2012-01-26T19:00:00.000-05:00

Have you heard of Ron Clark?
I heard of him a couple years ago...
I believe it was Oprah who brought him to the surface for all of us... Well, I know it was Oprah for me...

Maybe I paid more attention because it took place in Atlanta... Maybe it was because I remember wishing that school was more interesting...

Either way, when I heard that there was a book titled, The End of Molasses Classes, by Ron Clark...
I knew I wanted to read it...
It was full of 101 idea's - "Extraordinary Solutions for Parents and Teachers."

I never gave it much thought, but he was able to summarize in two words what many of us can write about in paragraphs... MOLASSES CLASSES.
You know what I am talking about, unless you were lucky enough to have a teacher (or if you were really lucky, teacherS) like Ron Clark.

Molasses Classes... they went SO SLOW... Slow as Molasses!

After reading this book, I tell you know... I would LOVE to go back to school...

Yes, even middle and high ... If I knew I could go to a school like the Ron Clark Academy.

This book isn't about just TEACHING the kids... This is about helping the kids succeed...

This is a book... for EVERYONE. The teachers, the students, the parents... the community!

I will tell you, I did not sit down and read this book from start to finish... I flipped from here to there... back to this section, jumped over to that part... Do you get what I am saying? Basically, anyone can read it... and you can choose the way that is best suited for you!

In the beginning, you have the Contents...
In the contents, you have each area broken down into parts, and from there it is divided into sections.

Part One - RCA (Ron Clark Academy) Core Principles and Values.
Part Two - The Role of the Parent in the Success of the Child.

Part Three - Creating the Right Climate and Culture

Part Four - Reaching Out Beyond the Classroom

There were many parts that I would read and say, "oh this is my favorite section!" But then, I would read another section and say it all over again! It grabbed me when in the very beginning Ron Clark says " NOT EVERY CHILD DESERVES A COOKIE." Maybe you agree, maybe you don't... I personally do agree... If you give the kid everything all the time, how will they ever learn?

As for the teachers... I do believe that if more teachers had a fire for teaching, the students would for sure have a fire for learning... Now, not every student... but I know that for me, nothing was worse than walking into a classroom knowing that the teacher was going to be at their desk doing a lecture all day... or we would be watching boring power point presentations... I loved this: "Teach the Students... Not the Board."

In here, Mr. Clark talks about never staying in the same place throughout class... Making eye contact with the students... getting parents involved (no "helicopter" parenting) but at least having communication with them.

Not only does Mr. Clark write this book to help all of us that have the ability to impact the education of a child... He also adds several sections where he gives you pointers if you want to try something like this yourself... Example: Instead of telling them to work hard to get a job, invite people of all different area's of the workforce in for them to learn about different professions... that might be what they need to make the light shine in their eyes and the drive to succeed and become.

Yes, I think that this is a great book... One that I will for sure be pulling out to flip through when Broxton starts school. Just the fact that he brings so much energy and excitement to his school... Well, to be honest... I would LOVE to visit it! (If I ever get there, I will let you know!) Also, the book has several letters from family members singing the praises of the work Mr. Clark has done! So, although I think he seems pretty cool, from reading his story, the family seems to seal the deal for me!

You can purchase your copy of The End Of Molasses Classes from several local retailers.

Follow RCA on Twitter and/or Facebook.

Emerald Breakfast on the Go - Oatmeal Blends #Giveaway

2012-01-23T14:00:00.000-05:00

Now that we are all back in the routine of school and work and not all the holidays, it is time to regain focus on time management and on being healthy!
No, I did not make any resolutions this year, I never do...
But, I want to try and be healthier....

I had the chance to review the Breakfast on the Go - Oatmeal Blends.
I was excited to try them, as I loved the Nut and Granola ones...
I am a fan of oatmeal, but I have to be in the mood...

With these.... you are always in for a quick little pack! Be it for a breakfast on the go or a pick me up snack during the day...

We were sent all three flavors:
Maple and Brown Sugar, Apples and Cinnamon, and Blueberries and Creme...
All three were delicious... although I was surprised to like the Maple and Brown Sugar the least.
I love that flavor of Maple and Brown Sugar for the oatmeal, so I was surprised that it wasn't my favorite out of these packs!!!!

I had the boys try it and they were quick to pick out the goodies that were mixed in and left the oatmeal clusters... I tried to explain that was just as good as the rest, but they were not having it... So, Broxton and I enjoyed the rest of them... I wasn't going to let them pick and choose what they wanted to eat and throw away the rest... Broxton loves the yogurt covered raisins and to be honest, they are pretty tasty... This is coming from one who is NOT a fan of raisins... All in all, I really enjoyed them and I am glad that Broxton enjoyed them too, he is sometimes a picky eater, so these are great... especially when we travel out of town! They don't take up much room and are very delicious!

Besides them tasting great and being a great "quick" breakfast... (or snack)
Let me point out a few other need to know facts:

200 calories or less per pouch

3 grams of dietary fiber

3 to 4 grams of protein

New flavors - Maple & Brown Sugar, Apples & Cinnamon, Berries & Creme

***** Not to mention, they are part of the Labels for Education! *****

Now, who wants to win a box of each for your household?!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

"Nothing is More Dangerous Than the Truth" Whistleblower DVD Review

2012-01-22T13:15:00.000-05:00

I was trying to think of a movie to watch the other night...
Broxton was playing in his room, Marc was at work and I really just felt like watching a movie.
I then remembered that I had The Whistleblower on DVD for review.

I wasn't really sure if it was something I was going to like or not...
I wasn't familiar with the names in the cast.... but, their tag line "Nothing is more dangerous than the truth" had really grabbed my attention, that was why I wanted to review it....

So, I put it in and was surprised when it was in a foreign country and had subtitles...
I wasn't sure if I was in the mood for that kind of movie... But, I figured I could at least try....
The next thing you know, it is in the USA for a bit and then they are speaking English... at the UN in Bosnia.
I decided to put the subtitles on (even for the English speaking scenes, as they spoke low at times and with loud toys, I did not want to miss anything.)

The Whistleblower is based on true events..
It is about a female Nebraska cop that goes to work for the UN in Bosnia. She is there to help as a peacekeeper, but before you know it... she has stumbled upon a MAJOR sex trafficking ring...
I will say, they use the F word about a minute into the movie.... and then they use it all throughout the movie...
So, if you are one that can not handle that language at all, then this is not a movie for you... but, if you can watch through this, then I highly recommend it. I was sucked in about a minute in trying to figure out what was going to happen... and I was glued to the television throughout the entire thing! Normally, I will let the movie play when I run to the kitchen for a drink or something (or if Broxton is a bit too quiet) not this time... If I had to move my eyes off the television at all, it was PAUSED until I returned!

Great movie, although very heartbreaking to know that stuff like this really does happen!

DVD SYNOPSIS:

How far will one woman go to fight global injustice? Clandestine secrets are waiting to be exposed in the gripping dramatic thriller THE WHISTLEBLOWER, arriving on Blu-ray and DVD January 24 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. Inspired by true events, THE WHISTLEBLOWER has been met with praise by critics and heralded at the Palm Springs International Film Festival (“Best Narrative Feature”), Seattle Film Festival (“Best Director”) and Whistler Film Festival (“Best Film,” “Best Narrative Feature”).

Academy Award winners Rachel Weisz (The Constant Gardner) and Vanessa Redgrave (Julia) head a powerful cast that includes Oscar® Nominee David Strathairn (Good Night and Good Luck) in writer-director Larysa Kondracki’s harrowing dramatic thriller. When Nebraska cop Kathryn Bolkovac (Weisz) accepts a U.N. peacekeeper position in post-war Bosnia, she uncovers a deadly sex trafficking ring. After learning that fellow peacekeepers and military contractors are involved in the ghastly practice and its cover-up, Bolkovac risks her own life to save the lives of others and expose the corruption. With masterful acting and a heart-racing plot, THE WHISTLEBLOWER is an acclaimed film inspired by actual events and includes stellar supporting performances from Benedict Cumberbatch (“Sherlock”), Monica Bellucci (The Matrix Reloaded) and David Hewlett (“Stargate: Atlantis”).

We almost had a problem...

2012-01-21T20:15:00.000-05:00

We were given the chance to review one of the new Kidlandia Kreechurs.
It is an adorable little plush guy and I love their names...

They are exclusively being sold at FAO Schwartz online store and the New York store as well.
Let me tell you how it went here...

They are all cute, so we could not decide which to review...
When the package arrived, Broxton was eager to see what was inside.
I pulled out "Thumblebottom" and told Broxton his name.
That was it...

Thumblebottom went everywhere... They played together... He had to go in the car when we went places...
Then, one night... Broxton was in bed... trying to procrastinate sleep... "Mommy, I need Thumblebottom!" Now, he has never needed anything to sleep with, so I told him Thumblebottom had already gone to sleep... He started crying, all upset about needing Thumblebottom. So, I went on a hunt and found him... As soon as they were united, all was okay and they both went night night. That started it, from that point on, he needed Thumblebottom to sleep at night. I thought it was cute and we made sure to take Thumblebottom when we went home to visit my parents...

Thumblebottom seems to make everything better, so it works great for me...
Until IT happened.
We returned from visiting my parents... and Thumblebottom was NO WHERE to be found. We looked high and low... everywhere... taking apart the couch, the beds.. no Thumblebottom. I knew he was somewhere, so I did not want to order another one... We called my mom, no Thumblebottom sighting there ... So, I finally told Broxton that Thumblebottom was on vacation and would be back soon...
As soon as we found him. Whenever we had a package delivered, he wanted to know if it was Thumblebottom...

All I could think of was that he had to have fallen out of the car...

You see, towards the end of the trip, Thumblebottom was playing hide and seek...
See how easy he could have fallen out?!

Well... No worries... We found him... Hidden in Broxton's things...

Talk about a happy mommy and happy Broxton!
(I know Thumblebottom was happy too!)

I am not sure how Broxton and that little orange guy bonded like they did... but I love it...

Isn't Thumblebottom adorable?!

Head on over and grab you one today!
They are $14.99 each!

Healthier Eating With Sunridge Farms

2012-01-20T06:30:00.000-05:00

I used to never want to try anything different...

Not really sure why, but I would just eat the normal foods I had always eaten.

Recently, I have started branching out...

Trying new, organic, different.

To be honest... If organic/healthier foods were cheaper, I could totally see me going more in that direction...
(Well, for me... and Broxton... Marc, not so much!!)

We recently had the chance to review a few products from the SunRidge Farms Line and I loved it!!!

I loved it!!!
(It worked in my favor that as soon as the boys saw "organic" they were completely turned off!)

First up, the Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds.

This was amazing!
I would eat a couple each night to get my sweet tooth fix.

I love Almonds... I love Chocolate... It was wonderful for me!!!!

All Natural Dark Chocolate Almonds From their site:

Crunchy and sweet. Skillfully crafted in the time-tested European confectionery traditions Small Batch Roasted Almonds. Freshly roasted in house, then drenched in SunRidge Farms All Natural Dark Chocolate Dark chocolate is recognized for its antioxidant properties Luscious Dark Chocolate and Fresh Roasted Almonds. Irresistible.

Another product we tried?
Their Nutcracker Crunch!
I will tell you, I was a bit hesitant on it, but OH MY!
It was wonderful!

I sometimes munched on it as a snack during the day... but I found that I really enjoyed it as a topping on my salads!

Organic Nutcracker Crunch from their site:
Nutty and perfectly Roasted Organic Peanuts Crunchy and Organic Japanese Rice Crackers and Sesame Sticks Balanced blend of energy that will keep you light on your toes: hearty nuts and airy, crunchy, light and flavorful Organic Japanese Rice Crackers. Flavor-packed Organic Tamari Pumpkin Seeds Great for holidays, daily snacks & lunches and other occasions.

The final product we reviewed was the Roasted Tamari Nuts.

Now, as I mentioned in the start, I used to not want to try anything "unusual" to me... so, I was once again curious to the Tamari Nuts... I am glad that I just went for it...

Well, Broxton and I!
We both loved it and it was so much better than snacking on chips!!!!

Roasted Tamari Nuts from their site:
Hearty snack for the whole family! A premium combo of SunRidge Farms Whole Fancy Mixed Nuts, coated with Delicious and flavorful Tamari Shoyu. Including Cashews, Almonds, Peanuts, Sunflower Seeds & Pumpkin Seeds Protein packed Perfect for any occasion!

I also loved that the bags were resealable! Made it easier to eat some and then put them up instead of constantly snacking!!!!

Visit SunRidge Farms to see what all they have available for purchase!

Family and Words - Aloha Friday

2012-01-20T00:01:00.000-05:00

Aloha Everyone!!!!
I hope that the year has been treating you great!
I have not participated in Aloha Friday in a bit, but I am back and ready to go!!!!!

Welcome to this week’s edition of Aloha Friday. In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that we take it easy and look forward to the weekend. So I thought that on Fridays I would take it easy on posting, too.

My question this week is actually a 3 part one:
1- What do your kids call you?
I call my parents mom and dad when talking about them, but then when I talk to them, it is normally mama and daddy... Weird... I know!
2 - How do YOU spell mama?
I spell it mama... but Marc spells it momma... but then I see some people spell it all sorts of ways...
So, is it mama, mamma, momma, moma, or what? Just wondering how you spell it...
3- Where are you from?
I am a Georgia girl... born and raised :)

Have a great weekend and get ready for a great week ahead!!!!!

Parents Palooza Will Be Here Before You Know It

2012-01-19T17:45:00.000-05:00

Parents Palooza is looking for input from Real Atlanta Parents.

Take their 10 question Survey to make some Amazing Events happen for the Families of Atlanta.

Your feedback matters. Make a difference here http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/WRYQBHN.

Visit their website www.ParentsPalooza.com to find the survey, join the Parents Palooza Insiders, Like them on Facebook, and Follow them @ParentsPalooza for Tweets.

This is easy Karma: give them your input & get incredible family events in return.

* This is not a sponsored tweet, I just thought all of us giving our input would make it even better than last year!!!!!!!!!!

All Things Disney Junior

2012-01-19T14:00:00.000-05:00

You know that I love to share when I hear things that might be of interest to you...
That being said...
I have received a few different emails with Disney information and I am going to include it all in here for you...
No, this is not a paid or sponsored post, but I have grown up with Disney and now Broxton also gets the chance to enjoy it... Several shows that he enjoys are on there and I can rest comfortably knowing that it is Disney!!!! Now, let me clarify that we do not watch television 24/7, but there are times when he isn't feeling well and just wants to lay down... That is when a 24/7 channel would be great, to allow for viewing during times we normally don't watch!

So, here we go:

One of Broxton's now favorite shows:

Jake and the Never Land Pirates:

PETER PAN RETURNS TO NEVER LAND IN

FIRST-EVER PRIMETIME SPECIAL OF DISNEY JUNIOR'S #1 SERIES,

"JAKE AND THE NEVER LAND PIRATES,"

PREMIERING MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13 ON DISNEY CHANNEL

Star-Studded Season Two of the Hit Series to Debut Monday, February 20

The classic character Peter Pan makes his first-ever appearance in the hit series for kids age 2-7, "Jake and the Never Land Pirates," in a primetime special presentation, "Jake and the Never Land Pirates: Peter Pan Returns," premiering MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13 (7:00-8:00 p.m., ET/PT) on Disney Channel. Featuring six original songs, the special finds Peter Pan returning to Pirate Island to enlist Jake, Izzy, Cubby and Skully in finding his lost shadow. Adam Wylie ("Picket Fences") voices the role of Peter Pan.

Generating excitement and demand among the youngest viewer category (kids age 2-5) and their parents, "Jake and the Never Land Pirates" ranks as 2011's #1 series launch in the demographic (kids age 2-5) and cable TV's #1 series among Boys 2-5. Overall, "Jake and the Never Land Pirates" is pacing as Disney Channel's #1 preschool series of all time among Total Viewers (2.2 million), Kids 2-5 (1.03 million/6.1 rating), Boys 2-5 (648,000/7.5 rating) and Women 18-49 (424,000/0.6 rating).

Season two will debut MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20 with new episodes airing daily at 8:30 a.m., ET/PT throughout the week. Sharon Osbourne, Josh Duhamel, Jane Kaczmarek and Tiffani Thiessen star in recurring roles, joining the series notable voice cast including David Arquette, Tori Spelling, Lisa Loeb, Adam West and Ariel Winter.

Beginning Monday, February 6, DisneyJunior.com/PeterPan will feature "Jake's Countdown to Peter Pan" and the debut of a new two-part game, "Shadow Shenanigans," where players can take on the role of Peter Pan's shadow to try to wake the sleeping Jolly Roger crew and then play a shadow matching game.

A full-length preview of "Jake and the Never Land Pirates: Peter Pan Returns" will become available via Disney Channel on Demand on February 6. Mobile providers Sprint TV and MobiTV will simulcast the special in conjunction with the television premiere on February 13 on Disney Channel. The special will be available the following day on mobile VOD for AT&T, Sprint and Verizon customers.

"Jake and the Never Land Pirates" introduces a crew of kid pirates – leader Jake and pals Izzy and Cubby - and follows their Never Land adventures as they work to outwit two infamous characters, the one and only Captain Hook and Smee, from Disney's classic "Peter Pan." The series, which emphasizes teamwork, features original pirate rock music performed by Sharky and Bones of The Never Land Pirate Band.

"Jake and the Never Land Pirates" airs daily during Disney Channel's Disney Junior programming block for kids age 2-7. The series stars Colin Ford as Jake; Madison Pettis as Izzy; Jonathan Morgan Heit as Cubby; David Arquette as Skully; Corey Burton as Captain Hook; Jeff Bennett as Mr. Smee and Bones and Loren Hoskins as Sharky. Rob LaDuca ("Mickey Mouse Clubhouse") is executive producer. The series is produced by Disney Television Animation.

-------------------------------------------

Just announced : The new 24-hour Disney Junior channel will launch FRIDAY, MARCH 23 and will feature the premiere of "Doc McStuffins," as well as new editions of the acclaimed short-form series "A Poem Is..." and a weekend movie block, "Magical World of Disney Junior."

In order to see if the new 24-hour Disney Junior channel will be available in your neighborhood at the time of launch, please visitDisneyJuniorTheChannel.com.

Disney Junior, a 24-hour basic cable/satellite channel expressly for kids age 2-7 and their parents/caregivers, will launch FRIDAY, MARCH 23 (12:00 midnight, ET/PT) in the U.S., joining 28 other Disney Junior channels around the world. The announcement was made today at the Television Critics Association Press Tour in Pasadena, California, by Gary Marsh, President and Chief Creative Officer, Disney Channels Worldwide. Disney Junior was introduced as a daily programming block on Disney Channel in February 2010 and, year to year, its ratings are up 26% among Kids 2-5 and 36% among Boys 2-5.

The popular Disney Junior daily programming block will continue on Disney Channel while the new 24 hour channel will fulfill parents' demands forquintessentially Disney programming throughout the day. The Disney Junior channel will be available via major cable and satellite providers Comcast, Time Warner Cable, Cablevision, Bright House Networks and Verizon, among others. Additional information regarding Disney Junior is available atDisneyJuniorTheChannel.com.

The programming schedule includes:

"Doc McStuffins" – an animated series about a six-year-old girl who communicates with and heals stuffed animals and toys in her backyard clinic. Under the consultancy of the Hollywood Health & Society division of the USC Annenberg Norman Lear Center, the series will highlight the importance of taking care of oneself and others, while showcasing the hallmarks of great Disney storytelling – fantasy and wish fulfillment. Emmy Award-winning writer/producer Chris Nee ("Little Bill" and "Deadliest Catch: Crab Fishing in Alaska") is the creator and executive producer, and Emmy Award-winning Norton Virgien ("Rugrats") is the director. "Doc McStuffins" is a production of the Dublin, Ireland-based Brown Bag Films (two time Academy Award nominee for "Granny O'Grimm" and "Give Up Yer Aul Sins"). DisneyJunior.com will debut a "Doc McStuffins" supersite featuring an interactive clinic where kids can assist Doc in nurturing toys back to health.

"A Poem Is…" -- Laura Linney, Viola Davis, John Leguizamo, Jessica Alba, Owen Wilson and Liev Schreiber are among the narrators of the second season of the acclaimed short-form series designed to introduce young children to the beauty of a poem.

"Magical World of Disney Junior" -- a weekend movie night featuring telecasts of Disney's vast array of classic and contemporary movies, including "Beauty and the Beast," "Bambi," "Dumbo," "The Princess and the Frog," "Cars," "Toy Story 2," "Monsters, Inc." and "Aladdin," among others.

"Gaspard and Lisa" -- the adventures of two best friend puppies as they experience the wonders and challenges of school and family life in their Paris neighborhood. Based on the books by Anne Gutman and Georg Hallensleben, "Gaspard and Lisa" is produced by Chorion.

"Guess How Much I Love You" -- a tender animated series centered on the father-son relationship between Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare. Based on the UK picture book, Guess How Much I Love You, by Sam McBratney and Anita Jeram, the series will air exclusively on Disney Junior the Channel. "Guess How Much I Love You" is a production of the Australia-based SLR Productions.

In addition to current hits "Jake and the Never Land Pirates," "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse," "Little Einsteins," "Handy Manny" and "Special Agent Oso," the channel will also present viewer favorites from the past, "Higglytown Heroes," "Stanley," "JoJo's Circus" and "Rolie Polie Olie," among others.

Other upcoming programming includes "Sofia the First," a television movie and series introducing a new little girl princess with stories designed to communicate positive messages and life lessons that are applicable to preschool-aged children; and "Oki's Oasis," the first western for preschoolers, starring actress and singer-songwriter Mandy Moore (Disney's "Tangled") as the voice of Oki, a kitty cat sheriff who ensures that the town of Nice and Friendly Corners remains the friendliest town in the West.

The Disney Junior programming block on Disney Channel reflects the emotional connection generations of consumers have to Disney storytelling and Disney characters, both classic and contemporary. It invites mom and dad to join their child in the Disney experience of magical, musical and heartfelt stories and characters, while incorporating specific learning and development themes designed for kids age 2-7. Disney Junior's animated and live action series blend Disney's unparalleled storytelling and characters kids love deeply with learning, including early math, language skills, healthy eating and lifestyles, and social skills. Disney Junior is available on basic cable in more than 99 million U.S. homes (via a daily block on Disney Channel) and to millions of other viewers on 28 Disney Junior channels (fka Playhouse Disney channels) and free-to-air broadcast partners around the world. It is also seen via subscription video-on-demand and a broadband website, DisneyJunior.com. In 2012, Disney Junior will add a basic cable and satellite channel in the U.S.

***** This is not a paid/sponsored post.*****

They Don't Make Them Like They Used To #ww

2012-01-18T06:45:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, my Mema and Grandaddy celebrated their 59th Wedding Anniversary!
I knew they had visitors on their anniversary, so I called to wish them a happy one a day later...
It was nice talking to my Mema and I made mention of "They don't make them like they used to."
She asked what I meant and I told her that you just don't hear of couples staying married for that long anymore...
So... today, give your spouse or significant other an extra hug and a kiss... or if they are out of town, call or message them... Just to let them know you are thinking about them!!!!

Here is to a very happy 59th for my Mema and my Grandaddy...

and to many many more!!!!!

Diary of a Wimpy Kid is a Great Read

2012-01-16T11:15:00.000-05:00

I absolutely LOVE the Diary of a Wimpy Kid Movies!
They are just so funny and the boys love them as well.
It helps that it is not childish (so that I can enjoy with the 11, 13 and 15 year olds...) but it isn't too mature either (even Broxton laughs at it!)

So, when I saw that they have even more books than just the movies...
I was excited... For more than one reason.
One - that means that there should be more movies eventually!
Two- maybe, just maybe, I can get them to read a book every now and then.

Last week, a girlfriend of mine and I got to chatting about the movies/ books.
Having the boys throughout the year, I was familiar with the movies more...
Her as a teacher, she was familiar with the books.

Have you ever looked at one of the books?!
It is actually pretty neat! So much more fun than just reading a book too!!!
It is like a mixture of a book... added in with a touch of comic book types!
I am not a comic book fan, but they keep younger kids interested and this sort of fits the description with keeping their attention!

The simple stick figure drawings that we are familiar with because of the inclusion in the movies is scattered throughout the story...
I tell you what... I wish I would have been half as creative and artistic as Greg when I was in my diary/journal stage!

We had the chance to review Diary of a Wimpy Kid : Cabin Fever.
I have realized that when I was growing up, I had my series of books that I loved...
( I still have some that I kept... they were that important to me!)
I know that this is a series that will be important to youth of today.
That being said, I want to get the ones that are currently out now for when Broxton is a bit older.
He loves the movies now and maybe he will enjoy the reading of the books when he is a older.

As an adult, I still found humor in the book....
Especially when Greg is trying to earn money by shoveling the driveways!
He stops at one house to try to make a little money... but the lady tells him she never gets visitors and invites him in... He then says he figures if he was going to try and make money, the least he could do was be nice.. but the whole time he was there all he could think about was how much money he could be making if he had gone and knocked on another door!
I know how kids think and this just made me crack up laughing!!!

About Cabin Fever:

Greg Heffley is in big trouble. School property has been damaged, and Greg is the prime suspect. But the crazy thing is, he’s innocent. Or at least sort of.

The authorities are closing in, but when a surprise blizzard hits, the Heffley family is trapped indoors. Greg knows that when the snow melts he’s going to have to face the music, but could any punishment be worse than being stuck inside with your family for the holidays?

Head on out and grab your copy today!!!!

FTC Compliant Review Policy: The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

Puggie Liddell Book Review

2012-01-16T10:15:00.000-05:00

You all know how much I love to read...

Also that I really want to pass my love of reading on to Broxton...

I have tried to get the boys into reading, but for some reason...

They "say" they "Love It" but when it is time to read, they have other things to do...

I think if all kids had great adventures to read like the Puggie Liddell book I read, they would be more into it! Because of that, I am going to try and get them to read this one!!!!

I had the opportunity to review " The Incredibly Awesome Adventures of Puggie Liddell."
It was Book One, so I can not wait to see where this whole series goes!

In the first book, Puggie and his sister, Gigi are on a field trip.

They are just as all kids are... especially most siblings I know...
ARGUING ALL THE TIME!
Well, in this first book, so much happens!
We meet Puggie and Gigi. We learn that they are completely opposite... but when push comes to shove, Gigi will always look out for her kid brother. We also learn that Puggie is a smart kid... As in a "whiz kid!"

While on their field trip... they happen to fall into a time portal!
It is so neat that they go back in time and Puggie (the younger) is trying to explain things to his sister...
To the point of using his knowledge to figure out where they are and what they need to do!

I loved the book and caught myself eagerly turning the pages to see what was going to happen next!
I can only imagine the excitement if I was a bit younger! Oh... I also loved that the author used the "coolness" of incorporating today into the book... Bringing up the game boy... Cell phones and of course, Justin Timberlake! What a great way to keep kids reading!

As I said, this is book one... So I am already awaiting the chance to see where Puggie lands on his next adventure!
Remember... you can hang out and follow the Puggie Page on Twitter and on Facebook!

USA premiering New Episodes! Royal Pains #Giveaway

2012-01-15T12:45:00.000-05:00

I am all about watching new shows...
Don't get me wrong... Reruns are great, but I love the excitement of NEW!!!!

That being said...
I have to tell you about a new to me show...
I have seen the advertisements for Royal Pains and for White Collar...
But, I have never seen either one of them!
I will be catching up and watching though...
So, for those that are fans...
Or are looking for something new to watch:

Here is the latest news with premier dates:

White Collar:

Premieres Tuesday, January 17^th at 10/9c on USA.

Starring Matt Bomer, Tim DeKay, Willie Garson and Tiffani Thiessen

Royal Pains:

premiere date is Wednesday January 18^th at 10/9 central on USA.

Since I am hosting an AWESOME Royal Pains Giveaway:

A bit more on Royal Pains:

(From the USA site)

USA Network is proud to introduce the Hamptons' newest doctor-on-demand,Hank Lawson (Mark Feuerstein), in Royal Pains.

Hank is a rising star in the New York City medical community, until he loses everything fighting for the life of a patient. With his career stalled and his personal life in shambles, Hank is in need of a new beginning. That's where his younger brother Evan (Paulo Costanzo) steps in. Fed up with Hank's personal pity-party, he convinces Hank to join him on a last-minute trip to the Hamptons for Memorial Day weekend. When the brothers crash a party at the home of a Hamptons billionaire and a guest falls critically ill, Hank saves the day. His dramatic medical rescue draws attention from the crowd, and soon Hank's phone starts ringing off the hook with patients demanding house calls.

Inadvertently, Hank has become the hot new "concierge doctor" in town.

Though Hank is initially reluctant to embrace this new career, with encouragement from Evan and an ambitious young woman who volunteers to be his physician assistant he decides to stay in town for the summer. Once again solving medical crises and helping those in need, Hank is back to doing what he does best. And now he's reinvented himself as the Hamptons' hottest new doctor-in-demand.

Also starring Reshma Shetty and Jill Flint with Christine Ebersole and Campbell Scott.

One Winner will win:

ROYAL PAINS DVD Pack - $100 Value

- Season 1 DVD

- Season 2 DVD

- Season 3 Vol. 1 DVD

The prize was provided by USA Network, but USA Network is not a sponsor, administrator, or involved in any other way with this giveaway. Contest open to US residents only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Big Year - DVD Review

2012-01-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

I love watching movies...

I wish I had a movie rental place that was easier for me to get to.

I was lucky enough to have the chance to review the latest movie, The Big Year.

Have you heard of it? It had Jack Black, Steve Martin and Owen Wilson in it...

To be honest, I really had no idea what it was about...
BUT, I did know that with those three names, it was going to be good.

I will say, it was not a comedy like I was expecting with those three...

but, it was a movie that I really enjoyed.

The Big Year is about a three guys from three totally different backgrounds...

All on the same mission: Birding the Big Year...

Meaning, who ever has the "Big Year" is the one that sees the largest number of birds!!!
Now, don't get me wrong, I do not hate birds... but I am not familiar with them either...

I did enjoy watching the movie and learning the different types that are out there..

I enjoyed it, but I tell you ...

Bird Lovers/Watchers.... Watch out! They will LOVE IT!
It is available January 31st...

So be ready!

Synopsis:
(From their site)

Summary: Let the fowl play begin! Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment presents the story of a competitive trio who quickly turn a simple quest into the ultimate competition when THE BIG YEAR spreads its wings on Blu-ray and DVD January 31.

Steve Martin, Jack Black and Owen Wilson portray three men from very different walks of life, facing a mid-life crisis, a work-life crisis and a no-life crisis. In the biggest competition of their lives, they undertake an unforgettable trek through North America, engaging in hilarious and bizarre adventures and forming friendships that will last a lifetime!

Directed by David Frankel (The Devil Wears Prada, Marley & Me) and featuring outrageous supporting performances from Joel McHale (“Community”), Jim Parsons (“The Big Bang Theory”), Angelica Huston (50/50), Dianne Wiest (“In Treatment”),Brian Dennehy (The Next Three Days), Rashida Jones (“Parks and Recreation”), Kevin Pollak (Red State) and Anthony Anderson (Scream 4), THE BIG YEARBlu-ray is loaded with special features including the theatrical and extended editions of the film, over 40 minutes of deleted scenes and the featurette “The Big Migration.”

To help you prepare for 2012...
A "Big List" of your own:

Monster Trucks in Atlanta!!!! #Giveaway

2012-01-13T19:30:00.000-05:00

Hey all!!!!

We had a great day today and let me tell you, I just loved it!!!!
Also, be warned... There is a good amount of cuteness contained in this post...

So ... Don't say I did not warn you!!!!!

We are not at the age of Monster Trucks yet...

Well, I did not think we were until today!

I remember years ago taking my brother to a Monster Truck show and I thought Broxton might enjoy seeing the trucks... I heard that they were in town... and get this..

FREE Meet and Greets were going on with the drivers!!!!

(It did not hurt that my grandmother gave Broxton a Monster Truck for Christmas!)
So, we put the location in the GPS and made a mommy/son day!!!!

First up:
BATMAN Monster Truck
As soon as Broxton saw it : "Whoa! That is a big truck!"

I heard several of the men talking about what all was going on down there!
Yes, Grown men taking pictures and all... I guess we all have excitement no matter what age!!!!

We then went inside Metro PCS where we met the driver of Batman. He was so nice and Broxton thought it was pretty neat to meet him! He kept calling him Batman. They had complimentary soda/popcorn and pizza!!! ( I also heard they were raffling tickets to the event as well.)

I asked if he would be going outside for photos... He was so nice to say yes... So.......

Broxton was able to get his picture not only with the truck, but also with the driver!!!!

We then decided to head home...
Until we notices another Monster Truck!!!
This was at Advance Auto Parts!!!!
Here is the driver doing an interview before the Meet and Greet.

Tell me these are NOT MONSTER TRUCKS!!!

What?! Here is Grinder.

Now this is where it gets pretty cool for me!
Broxton wanted to go into the big semi truck. They were so nice to let him...
This is what it looks like...
Over here, they stack the tires and one of the trucks.

Then, if you look under the tires and all... They move all of the equipment and what not.. Then, they drive the two trucks up on the metal ramp area... Yes... two Monster Trucks are transported in here!!!

(Please do not quote me as to that is exactly how it is done... I was just so excited to be seeing it... and learning that I might have gotten it a bit confused as to if they drive them, roll them, push them or what... but yes... two in here.. on the metal ramps! Next time I should take notes!!)

Slap me in the face now... I do not know his name... but he was with Grinder... He was the one telling us about the truck... He was so super nice to Broxton!!!!

This is the driver of Grinder... His name is Lupe and he used to drive another of their trucks..

(I learned this from a fan there!)

Broxton was just so happy to be seeing these trucks!!!!

We then headed to Grave Digger...
This was a name I had heard of...
This is Grave Digger The Legend.

Of course, all the kids wanted to know how they got in the trucks.. With the other trucks, they climb in from the underside... Wit Grave Digger... He has a door that opens! So, we actually got to look INSIDE IT!!!!!

Grave Digger The Legend was at Little Caesars. They gave out slices of complimentary pizza and cookies. They even had a cake in the shape of Little Caesar!!!! The staff there was super nice and I even got to try the White Chicken Garlic Pizza... HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!! Broxton was chowing down on the pizza!

We had the chance to meet Adam... The driver... He is the son of the original driver of Grave Digger. Kinda neat to meet him and he was just as nice as all the other guys we met!!!!

We had a great mommy/son day with all free activities (including lunch!!) The only thing that cost money was the gas...oh... and the MONSTER TRUCK TOYS that we just HAD TO BUY!!!!!!! Ha ha... Great Memories and Great times!!!!!!!!!

Let me tell you this...
If you are a fan... You want to go to the meet and greets next year.

If you are not a fan... You want to go to the meet and greets next year... You will be a fan before you leave!!!!

Now, since I love all of my readers so very much...
When Broxton got an autograph from the driver, I asked for an additional one for you!!!
What does that mean?!

One Lucky Reader will win:
An driver autographed picture of:
Batman
Grinder

Grave Digger The Legend.

(It is a photo of the truck with the driver autograph.)

a Rafflecopter giveaway *** This is not a sponsored post. I just thought it might be fun to share and do a giveaway with you! ***

Glee The Concert On DVD

2012-01-12T19:15:00.000-05:00

I admit it...
I am a GLEE Fan!
I love it.
I did not watch the first season... but then I had to buy it to get ready for season two.
(My mom actually gave it to me as a gift and I was so thankful!)
When season two started, Marc and I made it part of our weekly routine to watch it...
So much that last summer when the boys came, the oldest started watching Season One...
And then when he found out that I would be reviewing Glee Season Two, he started asking ALL the time when it would be here so he could watch them...

When the boys came for Christmas this year...
The oldest QUICKLY reminded me that he needed to watch season two.
We pulled it out and started watching... I loved that he was so excited (even texting before they came to make sure we were still on to watch all of them!)
The other two could have cared less... then, the 13 year old started watching and slowly got sucked into (shhhhh don't tell anyone) watching them!!! He was making fun of his older brother at first for being a Glee Fan, but then saw why... It did not hurt that once he started enjoying the show that he learned that his dad also watches!!!!

That leads us to now...
While they were here, we received GLEE The Concert on DVD for review.
Now, none of us really knew what to expect... so we put it in to see...
It was basically a recording of a Glee Club Concert.
Each of the characters were still in their Glee Characters...
Showing all of them performing different musical numbers...

I loved that it had fans included... Showing fans before the concert.. as well as fans during the concert.
I was a bit confused that they had "added" features of Sue Sylvester introducing them and all at the end as extra features... I personally would have enjoyed it more had it just had the fan stuff at the beginning...
Then, the concert filmed in its entirety... (That means showing Sue introducing them and all that good stuff)
Then, the added features of the behind the scenes and more fan footage...
I will admit that the boys (as well as myself) did wish there would have been more of Sue...
and we did not see Will, Emma or Coach Bieste at all...
Those were key characters we thought we would see...

Bottom line...
If you have a Glee Fan...
Go out and get this ASAP.
We loved it and even the ten year old was caught watching this one with us!!!!

FTC Compliant Review Policy: The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

Hello 2012

2012-01-10T23:45:00.002-05:00

Well, 2012 is already kicking my butt!!!!
We had the boys....
Then, I got sick.. Like, sick as a dog... SICK... Could not move... Sick...
That is all in the past...
Then, Marc had drill...

But-
We are home now..
We are finally getting back into a routine...
and I will be back to my bloggy self soon...
Reviews! Giveaways! Pictures!
Oh my!!!!
Yay!

Until then...
Here are a few photo's to make you (hopefully) smile...

We did a "first" this year...

This is as SOON as Santa walked in the door... He went straight to Broxton and Broxton was so happy!

Broxton sitting with Santa for a Christmas Picture!

We took Broxton to see Santa... At the Harley Dealership!!!!

Hope you had a great holiday!!!
I promise I will be back to a regular schedule soon...

Not to mention I am (nervously) preparing on going to rafflecopter for giveaways...

Farm Rich keeps it easy - @FarmRichSnacks Review

2012-01-06T06:30:00.000-05:00

As kids head back to school after a nice winter break, lets keep a few snacking tips available for when mom (or dad) needs just a few minutes to spare.

Here are a few back to school snacking tips,

shared from Farm Rich:

· Start the Week Off Right. For Bethanne Latkso of Worchester, Mass., organization is the key. “I have two kids, a busy husband, and I’m designing my own jewelry line, so I don’t have time for frequent trips to the grocery store. Instead, every Saturday, I map out the week’s activities and plan our meals and snacks around that.” Latkso says in addition to saving time during the week, planning also helps eliminate poor food choices. “Because I’m eliminating impulse buying, I make better food choices – everything from buying more fresh fruits and vegetables, to buying better snacks for my kids.”

· Mini-Meal Replacement. For Leah Welch of Brandon, Fla., a mother of two boys ages 10 and 12, snacks that serve as a mini-meal are a lifesaver. “We are constantly going between baseball, soccer and chess,” explains Welch. “Just before I drive them to an activity, I’ll pop something like Farm Rich Mini Quesadillas into the microwave. They eat them on the way to the game and they’re good to go until we can get home for dinner. It’s a much better choice than fast food.”

· Sneak in Wholesome Snacks When They Least Expect It. “When my teens are having a study group or a sleepover, instead of letting them load up on sugary soda and potato chips, I try to sneak in a snack that’s more nutritionally soundand the brain food they need,” says Nicole Mills, an Atlanta mom of three. If teens balk at serving friends fresh veggies and dip, parents can try Farm Rich Cheese Sticksor Mozzarella Bites made with real mozzarella cheese. Real mozzarella cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, but they don’t have to know that!

· Make Healthy Snacking Convenient. Kim Griffin, a business owner with two teenagers, says because her children are at the age where they can prepare snacks for themselves, “I stock the freezer with things that are easy to heat and eat. They like being able to reach into the freezer to grab a snack they can heat in the microwave and be ready to eat in just minutes.” With frozen appetizers like Farm Rich Mini Bacon Cheeseburgers or Mini Philly Cheese Steaks, they can have a filling and better-for-you snack in just minutes. Or, suggests Griffin, put some Farm Rich Meatballs in the Crock-Pot, let simmer all day and bowl the kids over with the aroma when they walk in the door from school.

In light of last year’s snacking study out of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, tips like these are important for helping give kids snack choices that are better for them, despite the chaos of an active lifestyle. According to the UNC study, kids are snacking more than ever before – in fact, nearly 98 percent of children 2-18 snack between meals.

"Kids still eat three meals a day, but they're also loading up on high-calorie junk food that contains little or no nutritional value," said study leader Barry Popkin, Ph.D. He also noted that salty, fatty snacks, such as chips and crackers, accounted for the largest increase in the types of snacks children were eating during the three-decade period reviewed in the study.

We had the chance to review Farm Rich Products and we were once again impressed.
The Mini Philly Cheese Steaks were AWESOME!!! I loved them and even made them as a meal for Marc one day... We will for sure be keeping these in stock (as soon as I find them again, last couple times I looked, they were not there... )
The other we reviewed were the Meatballs. We have tried these before and loved them just as much... We have used them as just the meatballs and a dipping sauce... We have also used them to make meatball sandwiches!
YUMMY!!!
The thing I love about this is that they come in resealable bags...
You know, for the families that do not INHALE the whole bag at one time...

(Take this family of 4 boys and 2 adults... Yeah, you know what I am getting at!)

Keep Farm Rich in mind for snacking... and quick meals!!!!
You will not be disappointed!

Follow Farm Rich on Facebook and Twitter.

Time for a Hug - Book Review

2012-01-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

National Hug Day is January 21st.
Did you know that?

To kick off the celebration of such a fun day, I get to share a wonderful new book with you...

Time for a Hug is by Phillis Gershator and Mim Green.
We received it for review and I love it...
Love the colors, love the rhymes, love the message.

I am a hugger. I absolutely LOVE hugs. Do you?
When I first moved to Atlanta, I noticed just how much a hug could change your day....
It was weird, I did not have anyone to hug, so it was a bit sad...
Over time, I made great friends and even now, whenever we see each other, we hug hello and we hug goodbye. Broxton does the same thing!

Marc and I love hugging him and we are constantly giving hugs (and stealing them) throughout the day!
With Time for a Hug, I see that we are not the only one!
This book starts with Little Bunny waking up and starting the day at 8.
Each and every hour... It is TIME FOR A HUG!!!!
Throughout the day, they do several different things...
Bounce balls, smell flowers, build cities... and no matter what, every hour on the hour...
HUG!!!
I love it!!!

Besides the love shown throughout this book, I love that it also is gender neutral.
The characters are two bunnies...
You never know if it is a girl or boy bunny...
Nor do you really know if it is mama or daddy bunny!
(When I read it, I read it as a mommy and her son... because of Broxton and I, but I am sure each person will take from it what they want!!!)

What a cute story and so glad to have the chance to share it with Broxton (and of course all of you!)
So, go on and order a copy for your house...
Don't forget... January 21st, hug away... It is national hug day!!!!

FTC Compliant Review Policy: The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

Pine Bros Throat Drops - Review

2012-01-04T19:15:00.000-05:00

With the weather FINALLY getting cold around here...
Well, at least for the day...
I am prepared and ready!
We have medicine in the cabinet...
(Although I do need to buy more juice.)
We have new throat drops too.

Please tell me that you have seen the Pine Bros commercial...
You know it has that guy in it... Rudy the celebrity.
He looks a bit like Elvis, with the hair / sideburns and glasses...
but that patch of hair on his chest... wow... probably has his own name.

Anyways, I hate to say it... But I had never heard of Pine Bros until the Pine Bros commercial caught my attention...
Then, I was asked if I would be interested in trying them out.
Well, since we use throat drops throughout the year, I figured it would be nice to try something different.
Different they were...

They are "softish".
I knew they would be, as they say so on their site..
But, I really wasn't sure what to expect.
They are not hard like other drops... but they are not chewy/gummy like others either.

I thought for sure that I would like the honey the best, but they really did not taste that great to me...
The cherry was normal, so I knew those would be the ones I would purchase in the future...
Then, I looked at their site..
They also have two new flavors coming soon: licorice (the boys would like them, me... Not so much!) and I really want to try the Lemon Citrus. I liked that they were "softish" as I am not the best when it comes to drops... I normally chew and swallow them, so they really don't get the full effect, well... You really can't with these!!!!
Now, not only do they taste different.. they also come in a little plastic case...
I liked that, as I hate when my drops end up at the bottom of my purse.. this way, I can just grab the little case and I am good to go!

You can click HERE to read more about the Pine Bros story.

Follow Pine Bros on Facebook.

FTC Compliant Review Policy: The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

Kicking it "old school" with @QuagmireGolf

2012-01-04T05:00:00.000-05:00

When I was growing up, there was the coolest line of shirts that I had ever seen..
They changed color with heat!!!!
Do you remember them? You would touch your shirt and your hand-print would be left there!
It was so cool....

Well, how about they are back!!!!

Broxton received the coolest shirt for review!
Have you heard of Quagmire Styles?
I was so excited when it came!
Let me explain...
The delivery guy comes with a package...
We were chatting, so I went ahead and opened it up.
It was the Color Fusion shirt!!!!
The two of us were like "How COOL?! They brought this back!!!"
Now, when I was younger, it was just a t-shirt...

Now... WOW!!! T-shirts, collard shirts, shorts, hats!

They are really expanding!!!

Marc and I put our hands on there... I pressed down hard, Marc just barely had his on there...

Notice how that determines the amount of the color change!

You just place your hand on the article of clothing and your body heat changes the color!
Broxton received the "stud" shirt... His goes from green to yellow.
As soon as he saw it, "Is that for me?!" "Wow!"
He had to put his hands on it and watch.
I did notice, as much as he runs around, the top, by his neck is always first to change! :)
We normally get him a size 4 in shirts, as he has a long upper body and the 3's are a bit short on him...
But, with this, we got the XS (4-5) and it was a bit too big.
No complaints here... that just means we will wear it when he gets a bit bigger.
I personally would rather it be bigger and him get to wear it longer, than it be smaller and the time he is able to wear it is cut really short!!!!

No, he will not be wearing it out, just yet... as it is that much bigger...
I think that I have found a company that is really true to size!!!!
(Another plus!)
Head over and check out their new catalog for 2012.

You can click HERE to see where you can purchase it locally!
Don't forget to follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

FTC Compliant Review Policy: The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

Disney introduces a little girl princess....

2012-01-03T20:23:00.002-05:00

This was a press release I received. I think it sounds super cute and although I do not have a little girl, I still plan on watching to see this!
----------------------

DISNEY TO INTRODUCE A LITTLE GIRL PRINCESS, "SOFIA THE FIRST,"

IN ANIMATED SERIES AND MOVIE ON DISNEY CHANNEL AND DISNEY JUNIOR

TV Movie Premieres in 2012; Series Launches in 2013 with

Ariel Winter, Sara Ramirez, Wayne Brady and Tim Gunn among Voice Cast

Disney will introduce a little girl princess to its celebrated legacy of princess fairytales in an animated television movie and series, "Sofia the First," premiering in fall 2012 and spring 2013 respectively, on Disney Channel and Disney Junior channels around the world. While Disney princess fairytales have been enchanting audiences for more than 70 years, this is the first time a series has centered around a princess as a little girl. The stories are designed to communicate positive messages and life lessons that are applicable to preschool-aged children. The series and movie are productions of Disney Television Animation.

"Sofia the First" stories are set in the storybook world of young Sofia who starts out life as a regular girl. But when her mom marries the king, she is whisked off to a glamorous, but sometimes confusing, castle world of royalty, pomp and new step-siblings, Amber and James. "Sofia the First" will include appearances by Fauna, Flora and Merryweather (fairies seen in Disney's classic "Sleeping Beauty") as the headmistresses of Royal Prep, the academy that Sofia, along with other princes and princesses, attends. Special event appearances will be made by classic characters including Cinderella and other Disney Princesses.

In announcing the series, Nancy Kanter, Senior Vice President, Original Programming and General Manager, Disney Junior Worldwide, said, "In Sofia, we have a 'peer to peer princess,' a relatable girl experiencing the same social issues as our young viewers – learning how to fit in, making new friends, conquering new skills and building sibling relationships." She continued, "Although Sofia will have plenty of pretty dresses and sparkly shoes, our stories will show Sofia, and our viewers, that what makes a real princess is what's inside, not what's outside. That the inner character of kindness, generosity, loyalty, honesty and grace make you special, not the dress you wear."

Providing the voice of Sofia is Ariel Winter (ABC's "Modern Family"). Also highlighting the voice cast is Sara Ramirez (ABC's "Grey's Anatomy") as Queen Miranda; Wayne Brady ("Whose Line Is It Anyway?) as Clover, a wise-talking Rabbit; and Tim Gunn (ABC's "The Revolution," "Project Runway") as Baileywick, the family's Royal Steward. The actors providing the voices of King Roland, Amber and James will be announced soon.

The series was developed by Craig Gerber ("Pixie Hollow Games") who also wrote the movie. Jamie Mitchell ("Special Agent Oso") serves as both Executive Producer and Director on the series. Gerber is Co-Executive Producer and serves as the Story Editor.

The Disney Junior programming block on Disney Channel reflects the emotional connection generations of consumers have to Disney storytelling and Disney characters, both classic and contemporary. It invites mom and dad to join their child in the Disney experience of magical, musical and heartfelt stories and characters, while incorporating specific learning and development themes designed for kids age 2-7. Disney Junior's animated and live action series blend Disney's unparalleled storytelling and characters kids love deeply with learning, including early math, language skills, healthy eating and lifestyles, and social skills. Disney Junior is available on basic cable in more than 99 million U.S. homes (via a daily block on Disney Channel) and to millions of other viewers on 28 Disney Junior channels and free-to-air broadcast partners around the world. It is also seen via subscription video-on-demand and a broadband website, DisneyJunior.com. In 2012 Disney Junior will add a basic cable and satellite channel in the U.S.

Disney Television Animation is an industry leader in the production of quality animated properties for television. Disney Television Animation is part of the Disney/ABC Television Group at The Walt Disney Company

--Disney Channel--

**** This is not a sponsored post, I just received this email and wanted to share. *****

Starting off on a Clean Note... @Purex #giveaway

2012-01-03T12:30:00.000-05:00

Okay, so every day in our house it is just the three of us... Marc, Broxton and Myself.

Throughout the year, we get the boys and our crazy house of three turns into a chaotic house of six.
Talk about a jump! Well, we are all about saving money, but not at the risk of quality.

Know what I mean?

We have tried several detergents and some I have liked, others not so much.

Some were great, but just not economical.
A bit ago, I grabbed a bottle of Purex.
It was VERY affordable, so I wanted to check it out.

I loved the price... and the end results!
The clothes came out clean and smelling fresh.

We don't always use a liquid fabric softener, but we do from time to time...
When I saw that Purex fabric softener was just as affordable as their detergent, I was a happy mommy.

We go through tons of laundry, just the three of us.
Marc wears about a million articles of clothing during the winter. When he was taught to dress in layers, he PASSED with flying colors. Remember, he works outside... and today our high is in the 20's (I think) so he has a great excuse for his clothing...
Broxton.. Well, he has to change as soon as anything gets on his clothing. I love that he doesn't want to go around messy, but sometimes it is just water... (So, we change, let it dry and when the other clothes get wet, we put the dry ones back on.)
Now... When the boys are here...

I feel like I work at a laundry mat! Every single time you tell them to bring their dirty clothes to the laundry room, they have enough clothes to dress their whole school class... yet over half of the "dirty clothes" have not even been on their body... unless they are doing fashion shoots during the night while we are sleeping and I just don't know about it..

Moving along...

My new found joy is anything Purex.

I received a bottle of the TRIPLE ACTION PUREX DETERGENT in the mail.
(I am a Purex Insider, so very happy about that!) I used it, loved it... and headed to the store to buy more. Remember, 6 people = LOADS of laundry!

I was in love with the clean smell... there was hint of fragrance, but it was nothing to overpowering !
I am excited that not only have they made a Triple Action (Bright / White/ Clean) detergent...

but, they also have it in a Free and Clear Formula.
If you remember, Broxton has eczema. We go to the Free and Clear detergents when he has flare ups...
As to not have anything else to aggravate it. We will be buying this now, as the cold weather always brings it out.
Side note... New moms... We used to buy pricier free and clear detergents when we first had Broxton... No need to spend all that money, as this works just as good, if not better... for way less than what they cost!

Now, get this... I get to share this with you!!!

Who wants to win a coupon for the chance to try out the Purex Laundry Detergent?

Mandatory Entry:

Just leave a comment telling me if you love or hate washing clothes.

(Please leave email address if not visible in your profile.)

Extra Entries:

(Please leave separate comment for each entry)

Like/Follow JumpinBeans on Facebook and / or Twitter - 1 entry each

Like / Follow Purex on Facebook and/or Twitter - 1 entry each

Subscribe by email , must be valid- 1 entry

Follow me on Google+ and/or GFC- 1 entry each

Contest will end January 18 at midnight.

Contest for US - residents 18 and older.

Random.org will select the winner.

Winner will have 48 hours to respond to winning email or a new winner will be selected.

Purex provided a free sample of their Triple Action laundry detergent so I could write a review. However, all of the opinion expressed here are my own.

Hey there, my friends!

2012-01-03T11:45:00.000-05:00

Hey all!
Hope you had an amazing holiday!
We were busy and I am still trying to get caught up and organized from the past few weeks!
Between trying to visit family in very short amounts of time, trying to visit with Marc as much as possible when he wasn't at work... Trying to keep 4 boys occupied....
Well, you know how it goes!
I am starting back tomorrow on reviews, giveaways, meme's and more..
But...
Until then...

I just wanted to say:

Here is to a wonderful new year.
Make lots of memories.
Enjoy your family and friends.
Make new friendships. Rekindle the old ones.
Never take a moment for granted.
Take lots and lots of photos.
Love.
Love yourself. Love the ones around you. Love the ones you miss...
But just keep on LOVING.

Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner!!!!

2012-01-02T11:15:00.000-05:00

Let us get this year off started right.

Here is a list of the winners from the past couple of months.

All winners have been notified, but I always (eventually) post the winners in case anyone is interested in seeing who won what...

So...

Here is to a great new year!!!!

Don't forget, if you have won...

Feel free to grab this button (code on side bar) and let everyone know!!!!

Perfect Meatloaf Pan:
Angela
Veggie Tales:Megan
Nalgene:Aileen Megan
Tagsmania:
karenmed409
Easy Entertaining Book:

Anonymous said... felecia

Plow and Hearth Photo Frame Table:
Linda Meyers-Gabbard aka Ladyblueeyez1960

Cowboy Food Cookbook:

Anonymous said... nannypanpan

Covert Affairs JetSetter Prize Pack:
nicole / Twitter: BTHM1

Uncommon Goods:
alissa4illustration

Funky Monkey:
ann

Bronners:
karenmed409

Energizer:

Anonymous said...

nannypanpan

Neat-Oh:

Megan

Art of Getting By:

pmj

World Vision:
karenmed409

Along Came You Book:

Aileen

Monster Factory:
Amy B

Scandle:

pmj

Kernel Seasonings:
Megan

Ice Age:

Aileen

Aileen

Megan

karenmed409

VickieB

Please help #findhaley Have you heard

2011-12-31T10:31:00.001-05:00

I just heard about this last night...
My heart just breaks for this man...
Well, I would hate it for anyone... but now that I am a mom myself, it is like it hurts more...

Please, take a minute and repost this on your blog... share on twitter or facebook...
We ALL know how powerful social media is...

Let us all come together and help Ray find his daughter...
PLEASE...

Just checking in...

2011-12-30T09:32:00.001-05:00

I hope that all of you had a wonderful holiday break.

Our Christmas was wonderful.

We had the boys here, so Broxton got to play with his brothers...

We visited family that the boys had not seen in a bit..

I hate that I took a bloggy break....

BUT, I do NOT hate that I took time off to enjoy these moments with my family.

I will be around a bit, but not much, for the next few days...

I am working on trying to get organized.

Family (and Santa) was really good to Broxton, so we need to try to find a bit of organization...

Not to mention, taking down and storing all the Christmas decorations...

Not to mention trying to get a bit of calm in the chaos we have had the past couple weeks!!!

Be ready though!

New posts!

New photos!

New reviews!

New giveaways!!!!!

ALL COMING SOON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Now, get out there and make a few memories...

2011 is ending and a great new year is about to start!!!!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T21:06:00.005-05:00

From our house to yours...

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Sorry if I am absent for a few days...

Just trying to enjoy time with the family!!!!

Need a Last Minute Gift Idea? Look No Further! @consciousbox

2011-12-21T06:30:00.000-05:00

If you are looking for a great gift idea...
I have one for you!

Have you heard of Conscious Box?
It is just one of the greatest ideas!

You pay $12 per month (plus $7 shipping) and you get a random goody box each month.
You have no clue what is in it... but let me tell you...
I was able to get the chance to review one.
I was very impressed with everything that is included!

I will say, at first, I was thinking that $19 was a bit steep for a small box like this...
BUT, when you think about it... everything in here is pure and natural...
We all know that "pure and natural" products normally cost more than the unhealthy options!
(At least that has been the case for me.)

Let me tell you how it went here...

We received a box in the mail...

I knew it was coming and I tell you, I was like a kid at Christmas to see what was going to be in there!!!

I opened it up and was very impressed with the presentation. It comes inside a nice box with a cut out on it... They add a bow to it and it is simple, yet classy. Please note the note card in there... There are a few inside with different things printed on them.

One is a welcome note.. One lists all the products inside. One tells you what you can do to reuse your gift box... best part... if you post a picture reusing your box on their facebook wall, you will get a surprise in your next box!!!

Talk about a gift that keeps on giving.

Now to all that was inside! I did not take a picture of all of the products, as it is all about the surprise...

But, since December is over... I don't think I would ruin anything by telling you a few items!

So, just what all can you expect?

First of all, I was pretty stoked with the variety!
From soap to lotion...

Laundry detergent to tea.

Out of everything in there, I fell in love with the room spray!!!

I told Marc that this is a great gift idea for everyone...
But especially those that are trying to go green.

As you can imagine, not everyone is going to like everything, but when you get to try out several different brands of products, you will find the ones for you!
I like that they also include a couple different discount codes on some of the products!

That way, if you like it... You can order more!!!!

This is an image from their site with what a box looks like.

As I said, they start at $12 per box.. There are several different plans that I am sure you will be able to find one just for you! You can click HERE to learn more about Conscious Box!

Follow Conscious Box on Twitter.

Time to Zumba - Wii Game Review

2011-12-21T05:45:00.000-05:00

Remember when I told you about taking the Zumba class?
I was having so much fun, but we just haven't been able to go and get memberships yet...
Well, I was so excited to know that the Wii game of Zumba would be coming out!

It is just like the Zumba class, just in your living room instead of in another setting!
I had the boys try it out...
They were not really into it, as they thought it was a game...
Will I like it? YES!

There are two things that I do not care for...
One - having to put your weight on there when you are making your setting.
Now, I understand WHY... but I have not made my character yet, as I did not want that out there for all to see.
Two- I thought that it would have more of today's popular music on there.
I was expecting it to go back and forth with more hip hop options...

As for what I like:
One- I love how it has the different speeds and songs... Including the calm down ones!
Two- I was so happy that it showed you how many calories you burned during the class.

Three- I thought it was neat that you could change the venue. We had them take Zumba from one area to a deck on a yacht!
Four- It comes with a belt that you strap on you and then place the Wii remote in...

There are more things that I really enjoyed about it, but I will leave it for you to try!
There is still time to head on out and grab one to throw under the tree this year!

Craft Time is Also a Great Gift Idea

2011-12-20T23:15:00.000-05:00

Shirley's PrePackaged Crafts has a great thing going!

Broxton LOVES arts and crafts time...

Each day, we have "school" and we go work on his easel.

We work on shapes, numbers, letters, colors.

We also have different craft activities that we do.

From coloring in our coloring book to glue and leaves...

Each time, it is something fun and different.

I was so happy to have the chance to review for Shirley's PrePackaged Crafts.

It was a relief to me...

Each time I try to come up with something, I get nervous.

Not now!

We reviewed a box from them and it was awesome!

There were craft projects... The items we needed were included.

Broxton was SO EXCITED that one of our crafts was to make a train..

We colored the train...

Then, we used the sticks (that were included) and connected them together...

PLEASE CLICK HERE TO LEARN more about Shirleys PrePackaged Crafts.

Sorry that this post is rather boring, but I can not seem to locate any of the pictures that were taken on draft days!

We still have a couple that we have not done yet..

Soooo...

When we do them, I will be sure to post pictures for you to check them out!!!

If you are a home school mom... Or just a mom that wants fun activities with your children, this is a great idea. (Think... Gift ideas too!)

Follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

Transport Yourself to Hawaii

2011-12-20T11:15:00.000-05:00

It might be cold where you are... It is JUST starting to get that way here...
One day last week it was in the mid 70's...
Then, yesterday it was like 31.

Either way...
Stop with all the hustle and bustle and take a minute of me time.
Transport yourself to Hawaii.
How?
By stopping and enjoying a nice snack on Hawaiian Kettle Chips!

We were sent all four flavors of Hawaiian Kettle Style Potato Chips and the boys and I loved them.
Now, I had tried them before, but none of us have ever tried Wasabi flavor...
I am not a fan of hot/spicy... I gave them to the boys first!
No, I am not evil.... They like hot/spicy more than I do...
They said it wasn't at all... So, I tried them.
Wow! I never in a million years would have bought them, but after trying them...

They were really good and we will have them again!
My favorite of them all?
The Sweet Maui Onion.
Now that is so good! I loved them! I will admit, I am not that nice... I did not share!
They had the Wasabi and the BBQ, I had the Sweet Maui Onion all to myself!

The BBQ really are great, but they are a "sweet spicy" which means the heat sort of sneaks up on you and then... BAM. Hot! (Well, they are to me, the boys.. not so much...)
We still have the original left...
They will be inhaled as fast as the others, so I saved them for last!

I loved the thickness (they do seem a bit thicker than other kettle chips) and the flavor...
It seems as though each and every chip is covered in seasonings... That made me smile!

Not that you need another reason to love them, but... they give back.
This year, they are donating 5,000 bags of chips to go into care packages for our troops!!!
They also will be giving out samples at an MS walk this upcoming year!!!!
Love to see companies giving back to the community!!!!

Follow them on facebook.

FTC Compliant Review Policy: The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

The Changing Colors of Amos #giveaway

2011-12-20T06:30:00.000-05:00

Talk about a cute book!
I love reading with Broxton!
Each day we read and explore all the different books!
We now have a new one to add to the mix.

The Changing Colors of Amos!
It is adorable and I love how it is presented!

Each day presents Amos with a new day full of colors!
Not only is this a great book for you to work on colors with your children...
It is also great to teach them the days of the week.
As if that was enough...
In my mind, it is great to allow the children to use their imaginations... Explore their creativity...
Talk about their dreams and so much more!!!!

The illustrations throughout the book are so nice...
It conveys the story, but doesn't take away from the written part!

Broxton and I have been having "school" each day.
Each day we explore a new color.
Yes, he knows his numbers, alphabet and colors, but we pretend each day!
This book just adds to the excitement!!!

We are enjoying it...
and now..................

One lucky reader will win a copy of

The Changing Colors of Amos for your house!!!!

Mandatory Entry:

Just tell me your favorite color!

(Please leave email if not visible in your profile.)

Extra Entries:

(Please leave separate comment for each entry)

Like/Follow JumpinBeans on Facebook and / or Twitter - 1 entry each

Subscribe by email , must be valid- 1 entry

Follow me on Google+ and/or GFC- 1 entry each

Contest will end January 3 at midnight.

Contest for US - residents 18 and older.

Random.org will select the winner.

Winner will have 48 hours to respond to winning email or a new winner will be selected.

Sponsoring company is responsible for shipment of prize. Jumpin Beans Blog will do everything available to ensure prize shipment is fulfilled, but can not be held responsible.

My First Hymnal

2011-12-19T22:47:00.001-05:00

What better time than Christmas to give an amazing gift?
Today, you can give your little ones their very own hymnal.
We were sent a copy of My First Hymnal for review from Concordia Publishing.

My First Hymnal has more than Hymns in it..
It includes scripture...
It also covers morning and evening prayer.

As for the Hymns: Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Holy Week, Easter, Pentecost, Holy Trinity, Jesus, The Church, Baptismal Life, Heaven.

Each page is colorfully illustrated.
Yes, that means the pages with hymns as well.
Some simply have a decorative border, but each page is colorful and will grab the attention of young ones.

It is suggested that this book is great for children up to age 10.
There is even a records page that allows you a space to write who it was given to, the date it was given and who the giver was!

If you are looking for a thoughtful gift...
Click HERE to order one today.

Glee Concert Movie and Shazam?!

2011-12-19T15:15:00.002-05:00

Okay, so I have never heard of Shazam (guess I am back under that rock again...)
But, when I saw what you could get with it...

I had to share...

Hope you enjoy!

Enjoy the sold out concert in the comfort of your living room

Experience your favorite stars, more performances and GLEEful moments using Shazam for GLEE: THE CONCERT MOVIE Blu-ray, DVD and 3D Blu-ray on December 20th

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment has teamed with Shazam® to present an industry first – the premiere of the first Shazam-enabled Blu-ray and DVD with the release of GLEE: THE CONCERT MOVIE on December 20th.

GLEE: THE CONCERT MOVIE stars Lea Michele, Jane Lynch, Cory Monteith, Chris Colfer, Dianna Agron, Darren Criss, Mark Salling, Naya Rivera, Heather Morris and the rest of the GLEE cast and is packed with new exciting never-before-seen and extended performances, clips of fans’ favorite characters, exclusive extras and more.

Fans watching GLEE: THE CONCERT MOVIE on Blu-ray and DVD will see Shazam prompts on the screen alerting them to a Shazamable moment. Using their smartphones, fans can “tag” the movie when prompted to unlock exclusive content, including:

Song lyrics in time with the music using the LyricPlay feature
Exclusive behind the scenes footage not seen in theaters
Exclusive photos of the cast, and...
Trivia about one of FOX’s most popular shows
Offers for Glee Seasons 1 and 2 on DVD as well as Glee merchandise

Every time people use Shazam while watching the movie, their tag will live on in their Tag List, giving them access to the extras that they can “snack on” anytime and anywhere, so they can be engaged with the movie even when they’re not near a TV! Additionally, with the Shazam Friends feature, they can share their finds with their Facebook friends.

“The Shazam App lets fans interact with GLEE: THE CONCERT MOVIE in a way that’s never been done before,” said Mary Daily, Executive Vice President, Marketing for Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. “Working with Shazam underscores our commitment to leverage technology innovations to deliver the very best entertainment experiences to fans.”

“Incorporating Shazam for TV into a DVD or Blu-Ray release is a perfect fit for what Shazam is known for – discovering more about entertainment,” said David Jones, Shazam’s Executive Vice President, Marketing. “For many years, people have been using Shazam to unlock information about the songs they love, so working with Fox Home Entertainment to give people a truly interactive experience with the GLEE: THE CONCERT MOVIEDVD is a natural next step in the expansion of what people can do with the Shazam App on their mobile device.”

Kung Fu Panda Makes for Great Family Time

2011-12-19T06:00:00.000-05:00

We all absolutely LOVED the first Kung Fu Panda, so when I saw that the second one was about to come out, I was hoping to get the chance to review it.
We watched it here one night... I kept wanting to watch, but Broxton kept telling me that we had to wait for daddy to watch. It was so funny, he even had to go put the DVD under the tree until Marc was home...
So, we finally got to watch and it was another great movie.
I will say that I felt like it wasn't as funny as the first one...
It was still good, but it had a more serious tone than the original.
In this movie, Po goes to China to help out... While there, he learns of his origins...
Think about it, we never knew in the first one how he came to be where he was...
This is a great movie and you can also get it as a 2 disc set...
With the second one, you can also purchase the set which will include the Secrets of the Masters DVD.
Now, I did not watch this one, but Marc and Broxton were enjoying it.
In the other disc, you learn of some of the background between the different masters...
(Hence the name... Secrets of the Masters.)

We went to get the boys this weekend and I knew that they would not want to watch the cartoons that Broxton normally watches, so I brought this along...
They liked it (and 2 of the 3 had already seen it.)
This was a great movie and it was one that I think all families can enjoy!

Pamper and Prepare with Little Work

2011-12-19T05:45:00.000-05:00

Most of the time, I just wash my hair and go.
If I am going out to meet friends or to dinner or anything, I do try and make my hair look decent.
Meaning, I Flat Iron it.
I reviewed an amazing Flat Iron not too long ago and was so surprised when they asked if I wanted to review a curling iron from them.
I got to thinking about it and realized that I no longer even own a curling iron, so of course I said yes!

When it arrived, I noticed the color first of all...
It is black and red ... I bleed red and black for UGA, so that made me smile!
It was the new Babyliss Pro Tourmaline Ceramic Curling Iron.
I was just as impressed with it as I was their flat iron I reviewed!
I plugged it in and next thing I know, it was hot and ready to go!

From their site:
The Babyliss Pro Tourmaline Ceramic Curling Iron is rated #2 on our Best Curling Iron list for one reason alone and it is the price. If price wasn't a factor, this curling iron will for sure be the #1 choice. The Babyliss Tourmaline Ceramic Curling iron emits negative ions and far-infrared heat that brings a number of additional benefits to your hair:

1. Eliminates static electricity                                      3. Neutralize odors
2. Preserve more moisture within the hair shaft            4. Causes less damage to the hair cuticle

From our expertise and customer reviews, most people are saying that tourmaline curling irons gives longer lasting curls compared to the non Tourmaline or Ceramic Hot Tools curling irons and other drugstore brands. The Babyliss curling iron comes with 40 adjustable heats setting up to a scorching 428 F perfect for all hair types. Two other great benefit of choosing this curling iron is the 2 year warranty and the fact that this curling iron is Dual Voltage, meaning you can use this curling iron any where around the world while you travel. If you want a curling iron that is up to date and wouldn't mind paying a bit extra. This would be your choice. Flat Iron Experts recommend the Babyliss Tourmaline Curling Irons with 100% Confidence.

I haven't used this for going out yet or anything, but I did try it out just to see how long it took.

I plugged it in and before you knew it, I was curling my hair!
I love that since it is such a big iron, it gives nice fat curls!!!!

Head on over and see what all they have to offer!
I see that they currently have free shipping on items over $50.
Not sure how long it will last, so grab it while you can!!!!

Snackin' With Tyson #tysongoodness, #cbias

2011-12-18T16:45:00.000-05:00

Broxton isn't at the age that he goes to school yet, but the boys do...
So, I know that they like to eat, I was trying to get suggestions...
Last time they were here, I sent home several easy recipes for them to make in the crockpot...

This time, I am sharing my new secret...
Tyson Chicken Mini Sandwiches!
You can read my Google Plus Story all about my adventure to get them this week.

No matter what the occasion, they really are great to eat!

Broxton could not wait until his brothers were here... He had to go ahead and enjoy one before they arrived. He loves them, but more often than not... He eats them plain!

The boys arrived and they were able to try my newest find...

One wanted mayonnaise and mustard.

Plain. Everything is always Plain.

Not very picky... However I prepare it, as long as it isn't totally nuts, he will try it.

When you have different schedules and kids coming and going at all different times, it makes sense to have something simple to fix. No matter the age, in under 2 minutes, using the microwave, they are ready to go. You can add cheese, sauce, whatever you want to mix it up... It tastes great!
I was thinking, the boys come and go so much...
One has football, one is getting ready to play tennis, the other is mr. social butterfly...
Who knows what time they can all get together for dinner...
So, until dinner time during the school week, this would be great for them to keep on hand...
Talk about stopping the hunger pains!

Then, you just have a simple clean up! Cooks in the bag, serve it on a paper plate... Easy Peasy!

When I bought them, I got to talking to the cashier and the lady behind me in line. Not only would these make great snacks / meals anytime... They would be great to have on hand for New Years Day...
Quick snacks make for easy and happy host/hostesses!

I told them they can buy them at their local Wal-Mart.
To see if they are available near you, just click this store locator link.
Also, don't forget, you can currently buy two packages and then mail in your receipts for a $5 Wal-Mart giftcard! It is like a buy one get one free deal they have going on!

What I like is that they have a decent window of time before they expire. Also, with the boys, they are growing boys... so... they eat! If you are worried about it taking up too much space in your freezer, you can always take them out of the box and just put the packs in the freezer. They come 2 to a pack...The directions are printed on each package too!
Less room = more product!
So - although it is the holidays now... these will be great when planning for back to school ideas!

“This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias. #CBias

For the Love of Apples! Sidral Mundet Review

2011-12-18T11:15:00.000-05:00

If you love apples, you might want to give the Sidral Mundet family of drinks a try!
I tell you, I love apple juice... but just don't drink it that often.
I was excited to try the apple flavored Sidral Mundet, but I was most excited about the fact that they now have a green apple flavor!

Let me share a bit of the Sidral Mundet history with you:
It was started in 1902... Talk about a milestone! It has long since celebrated its 100th birthday!
Sidral Mundet is an apple flavored soft drink from Mexico. They originally had the apple flavor, and get this...
Mexican moms used to give it to their kids when they had upset stomach's to keep them hydrated... Actually, the grown ups still drink it today when dealing with the need to be hydrated!
As I mentioned, Sidral has now brought a great new flavor...
Green Apple!

I was able to review both and although the apple tasted good....I do not see me buying it again...
I will for sure be buying the green apple again.. It was that good!!!
I know I won't drink alot at once, as it is really sweet... but I did love it!

Just how sweet did it taste?
To me, it tasted like a liquid green apple jolly rancher!
It would for sure be a treat...
They say you can cook with it, so that might be a way to level out some of the sweetness...
Either way, if they keep adding great new additions, I see Sidral Mundet being around another 100+ years!

Don't forget to follow Sidral Mundet on Facebook and Twitter.

Southern Fried Women - A Book Review

2011-12-15T23:45:00.002-05:00

When I saw the title, Southern Fried Women, I knew being a girl raised in the South, I would be interested in reading this...

Now, I haven't finished the book, but I am enjoying it so far.
It is 253 pages, but you don't have to sit and read it all at once.
It is a mixture of different "short stories" that tell the story of good old southern gals!
I will be honest. There are times when I am not just feeling it. I am not sure if it is this particular book, or just reading in general... I can not figure it out.
Once I am finished with this, I know that my mom is going to enjoy reading it, so I am trying to get it finished soon....

Summary of what is inside Southern Fried Women, from their site:

SOUTHERN FRIED WOMEN

A history of bigotry in a local diner is uncovered in Pigment of my Imagination, as the owner defends two young women and their right to be served.

Vernell Paskins, Mobile Home Queen is a woman who lives in the land of the doublewides and works at the interstate flea market.

Cry finds a pregnant woman lost, alone, broken down on a deserted road, and in labor.

A stranger arrives in town after a women’s prayer group hears angels sing during a violent coal mine strike in Coal Dust On My Feet.

In Punkin Head, one woman struggles with the decision to keep her unborn baby, as her husband’s employer—a popular televangelist—is opposed to having children.

In The Homestead, a deceased woman reveals that death is not the end of existence.

A single mother discovers why her young son despises their pastor during his

once-a-month Sunday dinner inviation in Old Time Religion.

Two Pentecostal young ladies become Beach Babies, shedding their cotton dusters for bathing suits, makeup, and getting their fortunes told at Carolina Beach.

And grief shows up 30 years after a woman forgets her best friend in No Time For Laura.

Kidlandia Kreechurs at FAO this season

2011-12-15T10:22:00.002-05:00

I have reviewed for Kidlandia before and I was impressed with their products.
I was excited for the chance to tell you about the newest Kreechurs that are available!

They are adorable and are available ONLY at the FAO Schwartz NYC store... or through the FAO Schwartz site.
Just click here to see the Kidlandia Kreechurs available.

I will be getting one for review soon, but I didn't know if you were doing any last minute shopping (or planning a trip to NYC) and might need/want a suggestion.

Pert Plus for Time Management - Review

2011-12-14T13:48:00.001-05:00

With a house full of boys, you can imagine the phrase "LESS IS BEST" works here... I always make sure they have the basics in their bathroom, but I hate to say it... It is normally whatever I have... I never thought much about Pert Plus. But now, I will!

Hello!
Talk about a time saver! I used to use it when I was younger... This would be great for the boys!!!
Shampoo PLUS conditioner.. IN ONE BOTTLE!!! For less than $6 you can have them using both shampoo and conditioner... One step... Equals... Less time... Equals Happy Boys!!!! (Happy boys also lead to happy daddy... and of course all that happiness heads my way too!)

I will tell you this, when we received the Pert Plus, I was taken back by the new design of their bottle!(Not sure how long they have had this shape, but it was new to me!) They still use the green bottle, I do believe that has always been their color...We were sent the Pert Plus Classic Clean.

Of course, with the new design, I had to go visit the Pert Plus Website to see what else was new...
Did you know that they have more than one formula? I know when we go on trips, I have to lug all sorts of shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and what not...

Well, if you are one that hates all those different bottles, you could always just grab a bottle of their 3 in 1.
It is not only the shampoo plus conditioner, they have also thrown in a body wash!!!!

Head on over to their site to see all they carry.
* If you or a loved one suffer from dandruff, they have an anti-dandruff formula as well!

If you worry about not having enough conditioner, there is no need... They have a perfectly balanced ratio of shampoo and conditioner to leave your hair clean and care free... With NO buildup!!!!

So, whether you are preparing for a trip, looking for a few stocking stuffers, or just needing to add more shampoo/conditioner to your bathroom... Keep Pert Plus in mind when heading to the store!!!!
Less is Best!!! That is my quote and I am sticking to it... Less time in the shower... Less Waste in the Landfill!!!! Ha ha ha...
Don't forget to follow Pert Plus on Facebook!

Eat Healthier with Help from @EatSmartScale #giveaway

2011-12-14T11:15:00.000-05:00

When it comes to healthy eating, I know I can use help.
I was so excited to have the chance to review the Eat Smart Precision Pro Kitchen Scale.
To be honest with you, I wanted this to help with my meals.
We tend to buy in bulk... It is cheaper this way!
So, I get home and start dividing everything by eye...
I guesstimate everything and I thought this would help.
You know, make it a bit more on track.
Like I really know what 1 pound of meat feels like? Right..
Well, I planned on using this to help with that...

But now, well...
This bad boy is going to do so much more than that!

This scale is great for those that are watching what they eat...
Or for those that NEED to watch what they eat...
Long story short, you put your food on there, weigh it..
Then, look it up in the book that comes with it...
Do a bit of simple math... (Don't forget you can use your calculator if need be) and then you determine how many calories is in that serving!
No worries about it just being for meats or just for veggies..
They cover all the different food groups!

Not only is it great for helping with food control...
It also looks pretty sleek!
It is nice and small, so when it is not in use, it is easy to just place in a drawer or a cabinet!

Now, one lucky reader is going to have the chance to win a scale of their own.

Mandatory Entry:

Visit EatSmart and tell me one of the other products they carry that you like.

(Please leave email if not visible in your profile.)

Extra Entries:

(Please leave separate comment for each entry)

Like/Follow EatSmart Products on Facebook and / or Twitter - 1 entry each

Like/Follow JumpinBeans on Facebook and / or Twitter - 1 entry each

Write on EatSmart's Facebook your #1 resolution for 2012. - 1 entry

Retweet the giveaway, can tweet daily - 1 entry per day

I want to win the @EatSmartScales #giveaway @jumpinbeans09

Contest will end December 26 at midnight.

Contest for US - residents 18 and older.

Random.org will select the winner.

Winner will have 48 hours to respond to winning email or a new winner will be selected.

Sponsoring company is responsible for shipment of prize. Jumpin Beans Blog will do everything available to ensure prize shipment is fulfilled, but can not be held responsible.

Opinions Wanted, Please

2011-12-13T14:15:00.000-05:00

OH MY GOODNESS.

Marc just showed me something he read online and I immediately had to come to you guys about it. I would really love your opinion on it.

Just what am I talking about?

The "New Twin Towers Unveiled"

Photo Taken from gawker.com

What do you think?

I think it is just wrong...

I mean, as soon as I saw it, I immediately had flash backs to 9/11. I couldn't help it, that was what I saw with the first picture.

Now, I will throw the double edged sword here...

If you look at it like this:

It does look pretty neat.

But... Marc and I agreed, when you look at the whole picture...

Not at all.

Photo also taken from gawker.com

I would love your opinions on this.

Hope you have a great day!
Let us all NEVER FORGET.

Great Idea for a Stocking: @zombieinsurance

2011-12-13T06:00:00.000-05:00

With all the different television shows and movies going on these days, I was actually not surprised when I saw information on "My Zombie Insurance."

What exactly is My Zombie Insurance?

Well, it is a great gift idea for the Zombie fan in your life...

For less than $10 you can get a great gift...

Be an entertaining gift or even a cute stocking stuffer...

You get an "insurance card", proof on insurance certificate and even a window decal to warn any possible zombie invaders that they picked the wrong house to mess with!

Ha ha ha!!!

This really is a cute idea!

A friend of mine dressed up as the cop from that Walking Dead show...

I might need to let him know that he can make sure he is protected now!!!!

Head on over to My Zombie Insurance to see if they have a "plan" for you!!!

(They have great pictures up!)

You can follow them on Twitter.

Totally Smitten - @SmittensMittens Review

2011-12-12T06:00:00.002-05:00

Have you heard of Smittens?

Okay, this might be just the cutest thing I have seen.

They are mittens...

For the one you are Smitten with! Lol. No, really... it is a set of mittens... but, one of the mittens is for two hands.

No matter young or old, it works for you!
Let me explain.

Say, you and your loved one are out for a stroll and it is a bit chilly. Put your smittens on and you can have warm hands, while HOLDING HANDS! You are going for a walk with your child.

Put your mittens on, once again... you can hold hands!

This is great! You order small/medium or large.

Then you order small/medium or large for the other hand.

They have 4 styles... and also offer some in red/blue or black.

I think it depends on what they have in stock at the moment.
Head on over and take a look!

Say you want it for you and your spouse.

You can order two large or mediums..
We ordered for Broxton and I.

So, I ordered a small and a large.

That way, he has his glove and then either Marc or I can wear the other.

I think that Santa needs to leave every couple a pair of Smittens under the tree!
This would make a great gift, not only for Christmas, but also for Anniversaries and Valentines!

Follow Smittens on Twitter and Facebook.

Disney Universe on Wii

2011-12-12T05:45:00.002-05:00

Wow.
It feels so great to be a child again!

We received the new game, Disney Universe for our Wii.

First, Marc played it for a few minutes.

I am not sure if it is our controller or what, but it was hard to get it moving right.

So, he played and then said he was done.

He went to the other room and I figured I would give it a go!

I loved how you could select your player, based on the different Disney Movies.

You could be a character from Pirates of the Caribbean, you could be one of the monsters from Monsters Inc, there were several to choose from.

Then, you get to pick what world you want to be in.

We were in the Pirates of the Caribbean world.

I think it might be the basic one you start on..

Either way, I know you have to unlock levels to move to other worlds and characters.

I too was having a hard time with the controllers.

I thought it was weird that the Wii game didn't have to have you moving to make it work, but just using the buttons...

Then, I realized if I turned my controller horizontal (instead of vertical) it worked right on the movements... I guess when the boys get here, I will have them fix it all back to normal. I don't know what I am doing with all that stuff!!!!

Well, I played and played and played.

I was laughing, I was getting competitive (I wanted to beat where Marc had made it to!)

I literally felt like I was a kid again.
I can not wait until the boys get here, it says you can have more than one player playing at a time... You can either work together to advance, or work against each other... I want to try it both ways to see how fun it is!

Obviously, it is too old for Broxton, but he was loving watching me play... and I know if I can get the character unlocked to be NEMO, he is going to be a happy boy!!!!

(It says there is over 40 characters to choose from! As well as, 6 different worlds to play in!)

Bottom line.

Love Disney?

Love the Wii game?

Love FUN?
Then, head on out and get Disney Universe, NOW!

I promise not to tell if you buy it and you don't even have kids...

It is that great, you will not be disappointed!

One Great Gift Idea: @OneBathandBody Review

2011-12-12T03:00:00.001-05:00

Have you heard of ONE bath and body?

I was intrigued by their philosophy.

They are a green company.

Meaning, they are trying to help out our Earth!
Their packaging is remarkable.

They don't use plastic... just cardboard, or metal tins!
Now, I am sure you are wondering how they do that and offer shampoo and conditioners... not to mention soap..

Well, that is because most are in solid form! Yes, SOLID form!!!!
We reviewed a few items that I will share with you today.

Up first:
I was able to soak and enjoy their Bath Fizzer.

I will admit, I was bit curious as to how to use it.

I knew to put it in the water, but it said for a long relaxing bath, use whole fizzer... Use half for a short relaxation. I was wondering if I was going to have to chop it or if I was supposed to just take it out after it shrunk some... I know, I know... Don't even go there!
Well, lucky for me, when I opened the package, I saw that they had it simplified for people like me! They had it cut in half and you decided how much to put in! Whew, avoided that!
I went with half and it melted away, leaving the bath water with a hint of a scent and a feel of satin! I soaked for a bit, enjoying a bit of me time.

Next up:

I was sent one of their bath bars.

I have not used it yet, but I tell you this..

The smell is to die for!
I will be using it soon, don't you worry...

Just finishing up the soap I have now.

If you are thinking of a great gift idea... I love the packaging of it all. They use recyclable cardboard. You could make a gift basket. Or just pick one or two for little stocking stuffers!

Keep ONE Bath and Body in mind for great gift giving ideas...

Also remember to pamper yourself!!!!

Follow ONE Bath and Body on Facebook and Twitter.

Giving Others Christmas with JDaniel4's Mom

2011-12-11T21:15:00.000-05:00

The other day, we were grabbing a quick bite to eat at a local fast food place.

I told Marc I would be back, as I was heading to the counter to grab a bag for Broxton's food.

Marc told me to hold on and wait a minute.
So, I waited and waited...

I have to tell you, I got a bit nervous, did I have something all over me and he was trying not to let me embarrass myself? I could not figure out what it was... and I knew he had sent me a text (that I had yet to receive, so I asked him to let me look at his phone.)

The message: "The lady behind us looks homeless and hungry."

I knew exactly who he was referring to, as I had noticed her as well.

But what do you do in a situation like that?
You know good and well you can not approach them and question them.

Would you make them uncomfortable? What if they aren't? The questions are endless.

Also, it is a bit rude to look at someone and presume such a thing... but, we did.

Now, let me try and explain...

She did not look like a crack head or anything.
She just looked like a lady that was down on her luck and could use a helping hand.

But, what were we to do?

I told Marc I would be back.

I went to get a bag for Broxton's food and I quietly asked the manager if she was familiar with the lady in the corner. She whispered that yes, she was homeless and harmless. She just came in to warm up. I then proceeded to order a meal and drink for her. I asked the manager if she would deliver it to her... Letting her know it was a gift from "Santa." The manager smiled and said she surely would and "God Bless You."

I refilled my drink and we headed to the car. We waited to see that she got it (looking in the window from outside.) We then noticed the manager carry her a tray with food. They spoke for a minute and the manager walked off... The lady then just sort of sat there, like in a daze. I then noticed she wiped her eyes and then laid her face in her hands...

I will never know her situation.
All I know is that although we don't have tons of money, we had enough to give her a hot meal and a cold drink that day. Who knows when she had it last?
Maybe that was a bit of hope she needed to get through the coming days...

I was thinking that I wished everyone would pay forward a bit of kindness...

Be it a hot meal for someone.... Toys for Tots... Or even volunteering.

I wasn't going to blog about this, but then I remembered the "Giving Others Christmas" linkup at JDaniel4's Mom.
This seemed appropriate, so I wanted to share...

Have you done anything to make a difference in the lives of someone else this year?

Capital Hill Cooks

2011-12-11T21:00:00.000-05:00

With love of great cuisine and the bounty of our nation evident throughout this book, CAPITOL HILL COOKS contains recipes from members of Congress, as well as every president from George Washington (Cranberry Pudding) to Abraham Lincoln (Mary Todd Lincoln’s Vanilla Almond Cake) to Barack Obama (The Obama Family’s Linguini). Taste Vice President Biden's Kahlua Chocolate Fudge Cake, Senator Charles Grassley’s Bacon and Bean Chowder, Congresswoman Michele Bachmann's Minnesota Rhubarb Dessert, Congressman Ron Paul's Texas Sweeties, or Senator Scott Brown's Italian Soup…and hundreds more. Many contributors to this book even include notes about their ethnic backgrounds, favorite indigenous foods, and fond memories of meals shared with others. (“Barack really likes this,” the first lady says of her own apple crisp.)

CAPITOL HILL COOKS will raise funds to be contributed to Homes for Our Troops (www.homesforourtroops.org), an organization dedicated to assisting severely injured servicemen and women build or adapt their homes for handicapped accessibility. The finished home is then given to the veteran.

Linda Bauer is the author of numerous books including the series Recipes from Historic Texas, America, Louisiana, California, Colorado, and New England, and The Great American Sampler Cookbook series. She has appeared on The Today Show, CBS This Morning, Fox News and CNN, and is a member of the International Association of Cooking Professionals and the National Press Club.

***** This is just a copy/paste of a press release. I have not reviewed this, nor received compensation. Honestly, I saw the part about funds towards Homes For Our Troops and I just really wanted to share. *****

All NEW Power Rangers Samurai

2011-12-11T06:30:00.000-05:00

Okay, I guess I have been under a rock or something...

I can remember my brother being TOTALLY OBSESSED with the Power Rangers when he was younger...

I just had NO CLUE that they were still around these days!

I know that they were named based on their colors, like it was the "Blue Power Ranger" and the "Black Power Ranger" and what not... Well, that was what I called them!
The other day, we received an AWESOME box in the mail!
A power rangers goodie box!

Needless to say, we dug right in!
I was all excited to see how the Wii game worked.

Since, I KNOW good and well it has advanced so much from the show my brother watched (he is 22 years old, so I know it's been some time!)
I was ready and I actually had Marc talked into trying it with me.

Then, we realized that the nun-chucks (needed for the game) are missing. We don't know if Broxton has hid them somewhere or if they accidentally were packed up when the boys were here last. Screen Shot of the Wii game:

Either way, my goal of kicking Marc's butt as one of the Power Rangers has to wait a bit now.

We are giving it to the boys as a Christmas gift (and when they come, they bring their Wii as well and all the accessories, so I know I will have a chance to show my talent against Marc once the game is opened! (Really? who am I kidding? I can talk a big game, but truth be told, I will be trying to learn from them!)

We received the Power Rangers Wii game.

As well as the Power Rangers on DS.

The final item we were sent?

A really cool Power Rangers Figure.

Now let me tell you about this figure...

It is more than just the figure that my brother got when he was a kid!
First of all, it is the Green Ranger (lucky for me, I think this was my "favorite" when watching with Ashton!) It also comes with a "Beetlezord" Zord Action Figure! This is new to me, but it is like a weird looking thing that according to the back, you can add with other "zord figures" to make a massive Samurai Battle Cannon!
Talk about getting fancy!
We will be giving this to one of the boys... and now that Broxton has seen it, he thinks it is his... So, looks like the Power Ranger action figure has been added to his list as well!

FROM THEIR PRESS RELEASE:

Power Rangers Samurai follows a new generation of five Rangers who must master the ancient Samurai Symbols of Power, which give them control over the elements of Fire, Water, Sky, Forest and Earth. Under the guidance of their all-knowing Samurai mentor, Ji, and with the aid of their devoted animal Zords (Lion, Dragon, Ape, Turtle and Bear), they battle to save Earth from the dark forces of the Netherworld led by the evil Master Xandred.

Now tell me that this doesn't sound just too cool?!
According to the Power Ranger website, you can buy Power Ranger items at Toys R Us and on Amazon.

For the record, my cousin gave her son a couple of the action figures the other night at a Christmas party... He was freaking out about how cool they were!
Just imagine a kid about 4 or 5 repeatedly saying "Dude! Look what I got!"
Yes, that was him and the excitement he had was priceless, so if you have a little one on your gift list this year... Keep the Power Rangers in mind!!!!!
(This Samurai game is for ages 10 and older, so they really cover a wide age group!)

A Must Have Gift for the Guy in Your Life : @shavewell Anti Fog Mirror

2011-12-10T16:00:00.005-05:00

Marc is one of the hardest persons I know to buy for...

He never wants anything. When he does get something, it is normally because he "needs" it.

As in "needs" new shoes for work. "Needs" a coverall outfit for the freezing weather he works in.
See what I mean? It really is "need" for him.

When I heard of the Shave Well Anti Fog Mirror, I thought "this is a great gift idea" for Marc!!!!

I was able to review one and well, I went ahead and gave it to him early.

I told him to know it was a Christmas gift (I might still wrap the box as a reminder!) but I wanted and NEEDED to know how it worked.

The Mirror comes with a plastic protective cover on it.

You just peel it off and you are left with a mirror.
They include a hook for you to hang it up in the shower.

Marc wanted to place his under the shower head, so he made his own hanging thing, but that is very typical for him.

It was funny, I went to get a shower and when I stood under the shower head, I was shocked to see my self there! I had NO CLUE he had placed it in the bathroom already.

Marc has said that it hasn't fogged up on him yet...

(I haven't noticed it fogging when I am showering either.)

It really is pretty simple.
The directions are basic:
(I am summarizing it here for you!)
1- remove protective coating 2- press hook firm to allow good adhesion 3- run it under water to "warm it up" before using it.

If you think about it, it really is a great idea.

The steam/water allows the hair to lose its strength, making it easier to get closer to the surface. The steam/water opens the pores up.

Finally, less mess!
I know when Marc shaves, he dirties up the sink... (yes, he cleans it up, but I am saying... )
This way, it will wash down the drain as he shaves.

Remember, he shaves his HEAD, not just his face!!!!

So, if you have a man in your life that you need a great gift idea for, remember the Shave Well Anti-Fog Mirror!

You can Follow them on Twitter.

When the Weather Outside is Frightful... Part Two #Giveaway ends 12/23

2011-12-10T05:45:00.001-05:00

Time to stock up for the flu season!
One of the boys called the other day to let us know he was pretty sick and they were thinking it was the flu.

I immediately began thinking that we needed to make sure we not only had childrens medicine for Broxton, we needed to have medicine for the rest of us...

For the longest, I made sure I had age appropriate stuff for them, but then when it came to Broxton, I had no clue...

Now, we have it all!

Last year, Broxton caught something and Marc headed to the store...

He bought some random medicine that I had never heard of, but I tell you what...

It worked for us.

At first, I was so mad that he bought a brand I had never heard of (and it was expensive too!)
but then he explained that it was recommended to him... and of course I did research to make sure it was a known company...

Come to find out, it was Boiron.

They have homeopathic medicines and it just seemed to be a great thing to try.

It worked for us...

FROM THE BOIRON SITE:

"Homeopathic medicines are one of the safest choices for self-treatment. They have no known side effects including drowsiness. Nor do they interact with other medication or contraindicate pre-existing conditions."

Additionally, because homeopathic medicines do not mask symptoms, doctors and patients can easily detect and respond to symptoms of serious illnesses should they arise. For these reasons, homeopathic medicines are an ideal first choice for parents, children, seniors, busy professionals, drivers, equipment operators, athletes, and others.

We luckily have not needed anything yet...

But, we are stocked and ready if the need arises.

We were sent the Oscillococcinum (will be great if any of us get sick!)
I love it because it is in a prepackaged dosage.

You just pop the tube and let the entire package dissolve under your tongue.
I also liked that it wasn't a big pill, nor nasty liquid... It was just these little bitty "pellets."
No more worrying about the incorrect dosage!

Oscillococcinum:
Oscillococcinum works best when taken at the first sign of flu-like symptoms, such as fatigue, headache, body aches, chills and fever. Oscillo® has no side effects, and has been shown in clinical studies to help reduce both the duration and the severity of flu-like symptoms. Safe for everyone ages 2 & up. Suggested retail price for Oscillococcinum 6 dose is $10.99.

The other item we were sent to stock our cabinet:
Children's Chestal Honey.

This is a cough syrup of sorts...

It is NON-Drowsy, so you don't have to worry about your little one moping around more than they already are while under the weather.

BUT, the honey helps to calm the coughing fits so they can have a more restful sleep at night.

Children's Chestal:
Children’s Chestal combines safe, natural homeopathic medicines with a natural honey base to relieve all types of common coughs. It contains no artificial flavors or colors. Children’s Chestal is your day and night solution—calming those dry, fitful coughs at bedtime so they don’t prevent sleep, but without drowsy side effects for the day. Safe for children ages 2 & up. Suggested retail price for Children’s Chestal 4.2 fl oz is $6.69.

Please remember, I am just sharing products with you.

IN NO WAY WHAT-SO-EVER AM I A DOCTOR.

ONE WINNER WILL WIN EITHER Chestal OR Oscillococcinum

Mandatory Entry:
Tell me which you would choose if you were the winner.

(Please leave email address if not visible in your profile.)

Extra Entry:
Please leave a separate comment for each entry.

Follow me on GFC and/or Google + = 2 entries each

Subscribe by email, must be active - 2 entries

Follow on Facebook and /or Twitter - 2 entries

You can tweet about this giveaway daily - 1 per day

Contest will end December 23 at midnight.

Contest for US - residents 18 and older.

Random.org will select the winner.

Winner will have 48 hours to respond to winning email or a new winner will be selected.

Sponsoring company is responsible for shipment of prize. Jumpin Beans Blog will do everything available to ensure prize shipment is fulfilled, but can not be held responsible.